Slag off Orange all you like but compare the angles on the 5-29er with the Tallboy LT. I will never go near a short and steep bike again; I need all the skill compensation I can get!
Honestly quoting static angles on a full sus is a waste of time, they all sit and ride differently, a mate (serial bike swapper) took a solo out and was worried about the head angle until he rode it then realised it just worked.
Anyway if you think they are popular in the UK head to NZ, was over in Rotorua where Blur LT’s and Nomad Mk2’s ruled the trails (all carbon) this year it’s the Bronson and Solo round every bend and the local shop had 3 staff 650 Nomads, 7 being built and a 10 bike waiting list. I reckon at least 80% of those out on them were very serious riders and seriously quick. So they seem to be a default choice for those who can ride 😉
Loving the VPP setup, the common sense of retaining the threaded BB at least until PF works properly, grease ports on the bearings, lifetime bearing warranty, 5 year frame warranty, good customer service and a really nice looking bike.
As nice as the guys are at orange their a 1 trick pony in the FS department, not keen on single pivot (and paying a lot for it) then it’s not for you.