Thanks for the detailed answer! Other than the race at Ace in WV, I don't encounter much in the way of what most people would consider to be climbs. Most courses I race have some short, very steep climbs, followed by a similar downhill. Momentum is the key. There are also a lot more roots than rocks. The course at Milwaukee would be somewhat typical. I am used to a stiff bike with the "brain" rear shock & fox terra logic on the front. My conern over going to a hardtail is how much energy is given up in absorbing the bumps, there are quite a few opinions on this. As for riding technique, I favor a very aggressive position on the bike & produce good power. What do you think _base_d on this?

I have asked some very knowledgable people about this subject, and find it remarkable that I am able to get such good advice this easily from a world champion!

Thanks!