I found the standard Float R on the 314 utterly awful on mine. It appeared to have a really hard pro pedal tune so you ended up running the shock soft to have any sort of compliance.

The bike was much (and I mean MUCH better) when I swapped the shock out to a better spec Fox air shock with switchable pro pedal. No real noticeable bob when it was on, and a nice plush ride when off.

I had looked at the 5 spot, but I’ve got a riding friend with one. He has been through an ’09, a ’10 and now he’s on his ’11 warranty replacement. The latest seems much nicer with the slacker HA, but the cracking issues have put me off. Plus I don’t really like the idea of bushes in linkage pivots.

I can get a deal on the Orange through the shop I ride for, and the simplicity of it does appeal, even if its not an inspiring choice I’m more concerned with the ride.

The Alpine I think I’d be kidding myself I need anything that big for 95% of the riding this bike will do.

Not sure about giving, but happy to do some selling!

Large 2011 314 frame if anyone is interested!