Well, I built the bike this way from the frame up so I can’t compare to the way it would come stock. The bike is very heavy but probably the best climbing bike I own. I ride it at the bike park a good bit and it does great. I’m currently running an air shock. The coil is smooth at the bike park but blows through the travel. May just be a half assed setup but I’m considering the cascade link, as I’ve installed one on my 5010 and absolutely love it