Mountain bike demos, rentals, or leads? (Looking for size XL Trail or XC bike)

[Mike Matz]

Friends,

I'm in the market for a mountain bike for general trail riding and possibly a quick-n-dirty race or two, and could use some help. Are there any local bike shops are the best to talk to about different mountain bike setups, have decent inventory, and possibly offer a rental/demo program? 

Alternately, does anyone happen to have a size XL bike for sale that could fit the bill?

Without having ridden any "modern" bikes (I'm on a 2006 vintage Mongoose Teocali), my research is leading me toward something like the Specialized Stumpjumper full-suspension (140mm travel) or Specialized Epic (110mm travel). I'm leaning toward the Stumpjumper because I'll probably do more all-around trail riding than XC racing.

Any advice is appreciated. Thanks & happy holidays!

Mike