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On a short chainstay bike you get a shorter wheelbase for the same cockpit size and head angle, so it's less stable and cuts a shorter turn. Your feet are closer to the rear wheel so it's easier to feel where it is. It's easier to push in and overwhelm just the rear tire, because when you push with your feet that's where the weight goes. You can turn with your feet more. You don't need to pull as hard on the bars to transfer weight or lift the front. That's what flickable means, and that's what people generally like...

At the end of the day, these sorts of bikes are made for the benefit of the manufacturer, and not as an innovative way to bring value to consumer. Having one frame to cover nearly your entire MTB catalogue is an awesome way to save money during this slump. I think it is important to remember that the average MTB buyer isn't hanging out on the vital forums, and they are likely not even be aware that the Trek Fuel EX they are about to buy can be converted to two other variations. I am not mad at certain brands...

You're very entitled to your own opinion, but I didn't hear the same contradictions you did. I've re-listened multiple times this morning and I still can't hear it the way you have. I heard Markus say they knew they were facing tough times but weren't expecting the PE firm to get to a point where they aren't willing to inject cash. The Fire Sale was an effort to get through that specific period without having to ask for more cash. That failed and then they were told 'no more'. As for your previous point, it's not exactly clear to me...

If it wasn't Copper Moon served at room temp from a box, it's not even worth mentioning.

Well, call me a moron, but this 6’ 1” large frame riding person is going to buy this totally unrideable bike. I look forward to looping out, my front wheel washing on every turn, lack of stability over 8 mph, and curling up in the fetal position in the middle of every ride. I’ll report back.