Lunchbox update

Let's be clear. This is the best bike I have ever owned or ridden. Period.

Today proved it. Techy Little Granite trail to trail 39 to trail 38 and back up and down Little Granite.
After eight hours on this thing, it clearly outperforms the Curtlo in every way I can measure and evaluate. It's handling is instinctive, with a minimal learning curve.

It bashes through rock gardens with authority, but can still finesse lines as needed.

Why I like high BB's:

My one concern regarding the Box's ability to tech/loose/steep climb was alleviated today. I was climbing stuff I know I have never climbed before on any bike, and this stuff is tough. What it took mainly, was moving the saddle from all the way back (Curtlo setting) to all the way forward on its rails, a difference of roughly 1.5 inches. This one little move puts me in the perfect position to weight the front and rear wheels sliding back and forth as necessary. The beauty of the short stays, however is that when I need to I can give a little standing mojo without totally losing traction to the rear. Nice.

I like long chainstays, but I like these more. They give me options. I can adapt to shortish chainstays by moving the saddle position. You really can't adapt position wise to the longer stays. I suppose you can slacken the STA, and shorten the TT to maintain position, but you will end up quite cramped on the bike if you ever stand up. As soon as you stand, you are still confronted with your weight distribution through the bars and pedals.

Standing with the shorter stays is a joy. I can lift the front at will, pop it over obstacles climbing, I bunny hop way, way better, I can unweight the front in chunky stuff.

I am usually quite nervous about riding these trails alone. Today was no exception. I can usually count on at least 1-2 trips over the bars at slow speed.

Today was totally undramatic. Amazing competence on a bike that seems like it reads my thoughts.

It is a keeper. I would change nothing except a little more braking power. Maybe it's time for new pad compound or a 200 rotor for the front. Probably some Hope M4's eventually, but not now.