Quick go on the old model, I thought it rapid (like my superlight) willing you to ride faster.. though more conservative geo than the T-129 mean it’s won’t be as much fun (as the 129) on the DH’s. Not suggest it’s rubbish DH, as it definitely more progressive geometry than most XC 29er’s.
Whyte Bikes are doing a Demo day on Nov 3rd at FOD, but my LBS listing suggest no 109’s, if this is of any use location wise, maybe hassle whyte via their FB page to see if they can provide a 109. Otherwise get onto your local dealer, to ask the rep about a demo bike, my LBS managed to get a T-129 demo bike in for another customer and I stole it for a couple of days.
PS: I’m torn, the T-129 is the geo I want fast and fun but really does feel like more travel than it has, the M-109 felt fast as **** but I wasn’t sure it had the ‘fun’ factor, I want from my next FS (would have liked a longer demo on the M-109 but now it gone carbon the cost is more than I’m interested in spending).