Just for balance, my newly built Hemlock, all parts secondhand (all off here I think). 150mm rocker, and I think that bigger forks would be better, but really easy to ride and only 29lbs.

I’ve got Tune Hubs on DT1.1 with Aerolite spokes and there seems to be very little flex – I run my brake pads quite close and there is no rub even when out of the saddle, and they weigh 1350g. Certainly comfier and lighter than the Kysrium SLs that I had before. I weigh just over 11 stone.

I thought that the other issue with factory wheels was cost of repair/availability of spares? They do look nice though…

A bit cheeky to post here I know, but if anyone wants a 150mm rocker for a Hemlock, I have one going spare – pm me.

[/quote]tlr – Thanks for joining in!! It’s not really that twitchy with 140mm forks, that comment has to be taken in context of the big mountain environment Jon was riding the bike, and that he knows it’d be nicer in that situation with 160mm forks. the Hemlock is actually at the slack end of the spectrum for trail bikes. For the UK it’ll be fine. I’m certainly enjoying a 140mm front end, and I’ve been out on DH trails recently and getting on well.

Thanks for the reassurance, I’ll have to see what it feels like, hopefully ready by next weekend.

I hope they’re good, I’ve just bought one, but not built up yet. Currently intending on 150mm rear with 140 Talas up front, so comments about it being twitchy like that are interesting.

Ultimately I think some 160mm forks that wind down for climbing would be ideal. Or I could buy a 120mm rocker.

Looking forard to actually riding it.

What he said ^^^^

And as the sole is made from vibram rubber rather than hard plastic they won’t release as easily or as predictably from your bindings. Really good way to break a leg or damage your knee.

As other posters have said, the lack of support won’t help your technique either.