Hi Guys,
Had mine delivered and built up a week ago (by Rob ‘Box’ Cooksley at Bad Ass Bikes) but have only had a chance to get out on two rides (3rd today!). Transferred all the old parts from my Salsa El Mariachi. Initial impression are that it instantly handles way better than the old bike as you would expect from the modern geo, with the length of the front end really helping here. Its surprisingly agile given the length of the chain stays too. I couldn’t get the El M to pop off anything where as this thing encourages you to boost off the smallest trail bump which is fun. Stability at speed is very good.
It doesn’t ride harsh although I’m running some carbon hoops on my 29 wheels rather than the ally ones on my 27.5 wheels and plus tyres which does make a difference in trail communication. In all this effing mud its fine as the soft ground helps (showing my age as comfort is a consideration for me ;-)the 29 tyres cut down to the traction, the plus tyres would be next to useless in this cr+p until it freezes or dries up.
Talking of wheels, Rob was able to use a kit to adapt the non-boost wheels to the boost rear end of the frame and along with a little re-dish of the wheels it runs a treat. Fantastic!
Only slight negative is that I’m currently running a 120mm fork so head and seat angles are a little steeper than I would like. Maybe Santa will help out with this…
Hope this helps!
Cheers,
Bootsy