When riding it as a on sporty excursions, the Specialized really comes into its own. On very narrow trails, you will love the playful handling. The seating position of the on long tours moves in a moderate range between sporty and comfortable. Looking at only the shifting system of the rest of the bikes you have to say that other manufacturers in the price range under 1500 Eurouse higher quality components. One should not forget: the geometry is the heart of a mountain bike. For 1200 Euro, Specialized provides more than the competitors in the same price range. With 25 years warranty, nothing stands in the way of a long-term relationship.