Do any of you have an angle adjust headset geometry calculator for changes to reach, stack, bb drop, based on the wheelbase, head tube length... of whatever you are starting with, and also calculate changes for fork travel and offset?
For the Works -1.5 degree I had, it increased front centre ~25 mm, dropped BB about 5 mm more, shortened reach and raised stack etc.
I used the Works -1.5 degree for 10 months (so I had more than enough chance to grow used to it), but when the bearings wore out I went back to the original neutral headset. The only big difference was that my front wheel washed out much easier (I already ride low and forward xc racer style), a little more awkward keeping momentum for uphill switchbacks (but still do-able), and it didn't make me any braver down steep technical features (so all cons and no pros). So probably need to change fork offset and travel, stem length/rise, just -1 degree headset adjust, add or remove spacers and everything too, to keep the front centre I like or not too much longer (the chain stays are already 438mm). Just off the top of my head, I think 10 mm more fork travel, changing offset/rake from 51 to 44 mm, with a -1 degree headset, will result in ~12mm more front centre and little change to BB drop.
I did borrow a Fuel EX with only 10 mm more fork travel, and it did make me braver down steep rough features (even with similar tires), but didn't handle sharp corners as well. I think what I was feeling was that due to head angle, trail, slightly more travel, quality of travel, and/or heavier overall weight, that the front wheel rolled smoother and straighter over the rough edges and holes with less side-slippyniss and less sharp pitching forward feeling. And no, I am not willing to buy a different bike, or inject testosterone to grow bigger spiritual balls (I think it shrinks testicles anyway).