[Fultonius]

I am on the verge of ordering one of these:  http://www.yt-industries.com/shop/en/Bikes/Trail/Wicked-650B-Pro

This is the absolute top budget and pretty much the perfect spec for me.

Throw me some other options - I would buy second hand if it was in good condition. Something like a Lapierre Spicy 516 etc.  I am 6" / 183 cm and have always ridden bikes that are on the smaller side. I'd right on the cusp of Medium/Large but my current medium Specalized Enduro is a touch too small, so probably erring on the side of Large.

[Bubba]

Not sure if it's burly enough for what you want it for but Specialized have just announced the Stumpy FSR Evo in 650b:

http://www.specialized.com/gb/gb/bikes/mountain/stumpjumper-fsr/stumpjumper-fsr-expert-carbon-evo-650b

http://www.specialized.com/gb/gb/bikes/mountain/stumpjumper-fsr/stumpjumper-fsr-comp-evo-650b

[fatdoc]

No brainier.

As long as the YT is in stock.

You won't get a better deal, and the bike is very very highly regarded. I've seen people do 15 ft gap jumps on em no bother.

If I wanted an all round capable bike... This would be it.

I had no issues buying from YT.

Get a large.

[Fultonius]

Cheers guys. 4 weeks delivery just now, which is fine as I'm busy for the next 3.

[gingerninja]

got a mate flogging this if you can stretch/haggle a bit http://www.pinkbike.com/buysell/1536427/

[Fultonius]

Ordered!

Now, since I have done the thing I always say I shouldn't - spent my wages before they're in the bank - I hope my employer doesn't cancel my offshore trip next week. 

[fatdoc]

 

[Fultonius]

No brainier.

As long as the YT is in stock.

You won't get a better deal, and the bike is very very highly regarded. I've seen people do 15 ft gap jumps on em no bother.

If I wanted an all round capable bike... This would be it.

I had no issues buying from YT.

Get a large.

Well Fatdoc, you're advice was splendid!  It arrived about 5 days early, in perfect condition and not far off ready to ride. Just back from my second ride on it and..well...mind blowing really!  It's a bit like the difference between an old fast hatchback and a bentley GT. I used to think I was going really fast, now I AM going really fast but in more control and more smoothly. I have not yet even got close to it's limits. BOS suspension and big wheels = super smooth trails. Happy. Days.

[fatdoc]