I'm in search for a reasonably light hardtail XC bike (preferably sub 10 kg w/o pedals). The requirements are: a stiff frame (aluminium or carbon) with racing geometry (not for racing purposes though), XT gruppo or equivalent. As my budget is somewhat limited (2500-3300 euros) and still want it fairly light, I'd prefer V-brakes. Weighing some 65 kg (height 183 cm), I expect no problems with flexible xc forks. Obviously enough, I've gone through the model lines from the mainstream manufacturers and some less known ones (like Simplon and Scapin). Personally, I find Koga's bikes are quite appealing (don't know the weights of complete bikes). Any suggestions?

Canyon from Germany: complete XTR, Manitou Skareb Elite w/ lockout, Syntace F99, Thomson seatpost, Mavic X317... 9,2kg for now 2499,- Euro(2799,- Euro), frame designed by Lutz Scheffer (Ex-Bergwerk).

Visit www.canyon.de

But I don't know if the 2003er models still are available.

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Nice one. The best set of components I've seen in the price category. Goes to the top placings on my list.

Don't go for Koga. Their to expensive You can get a better bike for the same price.

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...another good one is www.price-racebikes.ch down here in Switzerland
Premium model:
XT, 9.8kg CHF4000 (2580Euro)
XTR, 9.3kg CHF5000 (3200Euro)
2003 models have an AN6 Rahmen (2004 are scandium), RockShox SID Team, Mavic Crossmax SL, carbon handelbar and setpost, rest Ritchey WCS

Who says Switzerland is expensive....

Thanks for the tip. Have to start seeking some reviews on the bike.