http://www.bikeradar.com/news/article/first-look-on-ones-new-499-carbon-hardtail-24158

Have started saving for mine…

doesn't mention if it comes with a metal downtube plate guard thingy or something to deal with chainsuck chewing the stays?
or does carbon hold up to rock strikes o.k?

That looks fantastic at that price. Looks like an upgrade for the Singlespeed next year.

or does carbon hold up to rock strikes o.k?

Depends how you build it. Just like aluminium, steel or Ti. IIRC there was mention in the Planet X blurb about the downtube being designed with this in mind though.

The basis of the Carbon 456 is the award-winning 456 frame design and geometry, so that honour still has to go to Brant [Richards], who is no longer with us.

That's an unfortunate way of putting it….

I'm waiting to see what the 29er looks like. I can't afford a niner air 9 carbon so this could be just the job.