Now I've had the Blue Pig for a month now, I though it would be a good time to post an update..
Impressions are very good to say the least. The bike has been able to handle most things I can throw at it. It's been on epic two day rides in to the back of beyond. It's been on quick blasts around here (Morzine) when I've not had the time to ride all day. It's most at home on the Techy stuff – switchbacks are a personal favourite.
It has the ability to inspire confidence and know that the front will roll over stuff if you let it – not get stuck behind an obstacle and throw you off – that'd be the slack head angle then..
Climbing wise – I've not had to do too much of that yet – what with uplifts all around – but the climbs that I have done it's been me rather than the bike that's faltered. It goes up a lot more confidently than most hard tails I've ridden. The front end does wander a bit on the real steep stuff – But then I do have some 160mm forks on there – right on the limit for this frame.
And most importantly – it's never felt out of it's depth around here.
Current spec in order of importance is:
Fox 36 Van R
Dual Ply Minions
Short stem
Big wide bar
Some round(ish) wheels
Some brakes that stop
Some gears that go
I'd like to get a hammershmidttdddddttt on there – but it needs some ISCG mounts and some more money in my bank account before that happens! Failing that a blackspire stinger to keep the chain in check.
Last ride was very local – you can see the photos here: http://www.ridemorzine.org/2009/08/the-best-trails-in-the-valley/
