Here are my (novice) opinions on Trek vs Merida vs Specialised vs Giant, after testing each of them out.

[MattyB]

...Plan to try a few more before making an investment - Rocky Mountain is getting a lot of excellent reports ... only trouble is a long way to go to my nearest dealer.

I’m sure the Rocky Mountain rides well but that complex proprietary motor unit is difficult to feel confident in when there is such a small network of dealers in the UK. My worry is that you could be without a bike for a very long time in the event of an issue.