Thanks for the props, everyone. Really appreciate it. All of us at nsmb put a lot of time and effort into our reviews, and it's very cool to hear that it's useful for you.
Questions…
More platform - no, I didn't really feel like it needed more. It would have been nice to feel a more distinct difference between the settings, so hopefully that will be better on the production version.
Shock heating up - no, didn't notice that or reduced performance on downhills.
The BB height thing - yes, clarklewis, it is personal personal preference. It wasn't stunningly low, just lower than I'm used to and probably lower than I would like. I hit roots and rocks on my regular XC loop that I don't on my personal bike (Giant Reign).
My height - firevsh2o, I'm 6' 4" with about a 35" inseam. I run the saddle at ~85cm from the center of the BB.
Using the Slayer in the bike park a couple of times a year - Sure, why not. You'll want to change the rubber, but other than that, you should be fine. Your rims will likely take a beating, though.
refresh - If I was designing this bike for tall riders, I'd make the horizontal top tube at least 25", the seat tube at least 21" and raise the BB by 1/2". The current size is all right, depending on your body type, but I'd throw a leg over one to double check.
She said, why don't you stop your crying/
Go outside and ride your bike
- Sliver, Nirvana
"If stars were all that mattered, why would I go to the trouble of writing a review?" - Roger Ebert