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Like a ~2010 Diamondback.

I’d argue that might’ve worked effectively the first dozen times the bike industry did it, but not anymore. Unless what you’re hiding is truly unique, it actually does the opposite. People either see through it as a gimmick immediately, or are disappointed when the cover comes off and what is underneath is generic copied homework thus having the opposite effect just when the bike is actually about to go on sale.

We don't need more rules to confuse new viewers. Every single rider is given the exact same opportunity right now to make it into finals. It's fair without adding protection back in.

Chatter on new designs releasing just makes people avoid buying the current models because they are waiting for the new ones to come out. The more they prolong releasing new bikes, the more other brands will scoop up that market share from the previous brand loyalists who didn't want to wait 6 years to buy their next enduro bike.

Bizutch just likes his downhill rracing men tall, muscular, and masculine.

For inverted forks I clamp the stanchions in the bike stand and remove the bike.

https://www.pinkbike.com/news/spotted-next-gen-rockshox-super-deluxe-sh… Dario with the "spy" shots of Morland's bike.

There's a multi-page thread about that: https://www.vitalmtb.com/forums/hub/modern-geo-talk-chainstays-stack-re…

Well they are both 4 bar horst link ebikes

This looks like a rockshox Genie

Nothing will ever vindicate that bike

I don't think so. The Privateer's top tube hump looks like a dog taking a dump and I had legitimately forgotten how bad the rocker link is. I've never been a Trek guy and don't think there is anything that'll convince me to be a Trek guy, but the new Fuel is downright svelte compared to the Privateer. Weight? I'm on a Madonna, so not the guy to criticize bike weight. Lol.

Did you just decide to neglect the 13.9kg bike in your argument? Not to mention all the sub 15kg options - that’s how much bikes weigh now man. If you want a lighter one you can put a 1x10 groupset on it, and a rigid post, maybe even 27.5 front and rear.. it might be sub 13 by then.. but I Dont think you’ll do that.

The question is why is the fuel now a freeride bike? (Almost) Started out as an XC bike right? Not complaining but it is weird.

a hot dog fits into steerer. by this logic that should increase both stiffness and deliciousness.

That bike already exists. Both the Spire and Patrol are approved for dual crown forks. My friend was running his Patrol with a Boxxer and DH wheels for the past couple of years. I guess they don’t offer it as a freeride build from the factory but you can 100% do it.

I think the biggest difference between brook and Greg and gwin is Greg and Gwin are possibly the two best to ever do it. Brands will put up with a lot more if you're the goat.

Hans and GT parted because they are going out of business. If GT were still a strong brand I don't see a reason for them to part. Redbull is not going out of business any time soon so I imagine they will keep their high profile athletes for the long term as ambassadors for the brand within their respective sports.