I've had an El Rey since August and it is without a doubt one of the best bikes I've ever had. Originally I had a 80mm Reba installed on it temporarily until I could get a 100mm travel fork. I really didn't like the way the front handled with the Reba, but once I got a Fox F29 installed it really shined and handles perfectly. It climbs great, I've had zero issue with it on downhill sections and it's a great all round AM bike. I'd highly recommend an El Rey to anyone who asked. And for what's it's worth, I like the quality, handling of Ventana so much, I got a Padrino too... for the wife .

The Padrino is my forth Ventana. So it goes without saying... I really dig Ventana!

As for getting a frame you'll really dig and rant on about how great it is, I'd recommend getting sized up at a bike shop or doing it yourself. Then find a frame that meets your geometry best and fits your style of riding and you should have a bike that you dig. For me getting fitted to the right bike for my geometry has made a huge difference in the amount of pleasure I get out of the ride and the bikes I own feel like perfection to me. But just because one guys thinks his bike is great, doesn't mean you'll dig it or the next guy will. For me Ventana's tend to have the perfect geometry for my fit. I sure wouldn't buy a frame based on someone else's opinion... it helps in deciding what frame manufactures to research. But it only means they found a frame that works for them.

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