Hi! I've been reading this thread for a while... Since you guys all ride hardtails, I thought maybe I could ask for some advice. I'm having a hard time deciding which fork to get for my XL Nimble 9 (cherry cola) that I should receive next April. That frame can take 140 to 160mm. Even new, there's a limited choice of fork available at the moment and my budget is already pretty stretch out between all the parts that I need for my build. I've looked for a used fork or take off but I need at least 190mm of steering tube (ideally 200) so not a lot of option. I'm 205 naked and even if want my bike to stay relatively light and nimble (I have my Ripmo for really gnarly stuff), I don't want to get anything too flexy. I did run a fox 34 with FAST upgrade on my previous bike and the Fox 36 felt more stable and stiff when ridden hard.
Ideally, I would like to get a Pike Ultimate at 140 or 150 but they're really hard to find at the moment. I could get a new, slightly discounted Lyric Ultimate in 160mm (42mm offset). Will it be overkill for the Nimble 9? I could run it at 160 for the first season and then try 150 or 140mm if it's not ideal... I feel it should be great at my weight and 2050g for a big fork is still decent weight wise...
I've seen some Pike Select OEM take-off in 140 or 150mm (cheapest option budget wise) that should do ok but I'm worry about those fork being too low in their travel which is not ideal with a hardtail.
It's much easier to find (and a little cheaper than the new Lyric) a Fox 36 take-off but I would like to try Rockshox on my hardtail for their supposedly better small bump compliance. Plus I like the shiny look (ultimate models) with the glossy frame of the nimble 9.
Any input would be appreciated cause I'm in an analysis paralysis state at the moment (everything else is either ordered or in my possession)