The Trek Fuel EX bikes are pretty sweet. I just picked up a 2011 EX 9 and have absolutely no regrets. I looked around at a few different bikes like the Giant Trance X and others, but kept going back to the Trek. There is something about them that just really appeals to me. Also the 18.5 fits me like a glove. I’ve only had if for a few weeks, but have already put 70 miles on it and it’s been great.