Hi folks, am a newbie to MTBs. hope to get some advice from the otai otia sifus here. Would like to get a new MTB, budget around 1.5k. Am considering a 29' Raleigh Hydra....http://www.raleigh.my/bikes/hydra.html

Really love the look and feel of the bike but slightly tall for me...I think I should be looking at a 16" but the Hydra feels like its bigger. Anyone checked out the bike and any comments?

Appreciate the feedback. Have to disagree about the looks of the raleigh, IMHO is a classy looking bike. May look at the scott 29 too. Another alternative would be the Merida TFS. Pedalsport near my home carries the brand and its good to have a place nearby to service the bike