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[b]@gonzy[/b] - If the front end is still too high, dual crowns + direct mount stem (very low stack height) and flat bars make a big difference IME.
At the time our frames were made (mines 2002), a really high front end was how every DH bike was designed - 50mm riser bars (max of 680mm?), short stubby stem, high top-crown, plenty of spacers....
Since then, the fashion of ultra-low front ends has been and [sort of] gone.... luckily a balance of the two make older geo nicer to ride (IME anyway).
The original front end (high and narrow)...
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The improved (lower and wider) front end..
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Crucially, the geo of the frame/forks hasn't changed on mine (I run 170mm forks, like the original spec) - just the rider position.
Just found this pic on the web..... nice 'n' slack.. Not sure if it's the factory shock length.... a shorter i2i will make it slacker.
http://sfbay.craigslist.org/sby/bik/3577385877.html
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EDIT:
And for all those saying "Let him configure his bike as he likes..." I say "If he doesn't know how it was supposed to be configured originally, where's the harm in suggesting the changes to make it ride like it was designed?"
thanks Xiphon - i appreciate the advice. i know how it was supposed to be set up when i bought the frame but i've made the changes to the geometry to suit my riding style and although it doesn't look pretty or right in the eyes of some people, contrary to how it looks it rides fine, but like you say i'm sure there are more improvements to be made. i've been considering getting some wider and flatter bars and possibly changing the stem anyway so that may be the first course of action then i'll take it from there. as for the fork i cant justify spending any money in that department yet as i'm trying to save up for a new AM bike, but the forks on the hardtail will soon need to be replaced due to a knackered pinch bolt thread so that may be the ideal time to make the changes you suggest...i'll let you know how i get on after i've wielded the toolkit at the bike this weekend... 😀
xiphon - some great advice there.
you may think it rides ok but trust what xiphonis saying. move the shock about and fit some 26's will help the ride of the bike no end
My Helius 'FR'.....now about to be sold 🙁
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and fit some 26's
🙁 but i like my 24's..... 😥 😥 😥
I've been guilty of liking 24s too, but switched to 26s and it made a noticeable difference.
better rolling speed. better tyre choice. lighter.
This is the only thread on STW where people are being recommended to change to 26 inch 
Rollin' on 24s..... back in 2007...
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(It's the nice curvy long wall ride on south bank, London)
[b]@Northwind[/b] ha! Quite a rare thread then...
good thread, something to enjoy while I'm healing
big fun
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little big fun
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silly pic angle makes geometry look funny. sorry.