K2 Zed 2.2 vs. Diamondback Outlook?

Advise: I just purchased a K2 Zed 2.2 last night at Dick’s Sporting Goods for ~$250, I originally went there for the Diamondback Outlook for ~$200 but the specialist talked up the Z2 pretty well. He stated that the Z2 was better equipped with SRAM instead of Shimano on the rear, had a bigger diameter Seat post, and better handlebar design (by that I mean the internals at the frame). He basically went on saying the K2 was an overall better bike in many ways. However, as I peruse the WEB I do not see as large a following for the K2’s as there is for the Diamondbacks. My last bike was a Diamond Back Outlook as well, although an older model with no front suspension. I have had no issues with the bike and it performed well but I am not against upgrading either. Is there any knowledge out there supporting the $50 premium for the K2 and the quality differences between these two bikes? I appreciate the answers in advance, thanks

I took the 2.2 back and upgraded to the 3.2. The frame on the 2.2 was the wrong size (med, I needed a large), I also found a lot more positive reference to the 3.2 on the web. Of course this again upped the anti to $329, which id $129 more than the Outlook I originally went there for.

Hey...
Thanks for sharing the different between K2Zed 2.2 and Diamondback outlook... Such a nice information regarding both...

I am sure there are other differences, but these were the ones I remember. I am not to "savy" on the whole biking thing as I am just now getting back into it. I am feeling sticker shock at the $329 price, but I do see others spending FAR more. If there is any feelings on the K2 brand (let alone the 3.2 ZED) feel free to chime in - I would feel lots better if I could get more data/experience from others. It is still hard to find data on the K2's out there.

I just bought the 3.2 as well from dicks and have riden a few moderate trails and I have been very pleased with the performance! I am however going to buy clip in's replacing the regular pedals and also buy a thudbuster for my seat! The front suspension is great but the new seat post would make the ride that much better! I'm a K2 fan