Slackening headset

Do many of you guys/gals use a slackening headset?  Currently run a 140mm Fox 34 on my first generation Chromag Rootdown (68-degree hta.)  I am contemplating a 150 or even 160mm Pike and maybe slackening the head angle a further degree with a slackening headset.  What brands are the better choices for this kind of thing?

I'm also thinking about getting a wider front rim and running a 29x2.8 Minion DHF.  Would this necessitate getting a fork with Boost spacing?

Thanks.

Just a side note really but just a heads up I don't think they make a minion in 29x2.8, only 29x3.0. I think with most of the 29+ bikes people run fully rigid so they run the most tire they can. 

They might make a 29x2.6, which is probably the sweet spot for that bike anyways as I think they have a little less tire clearance in the back. 2.6 front and 2.6 or 2.5WT might be the ticket. 

Maube you meant 27.5x2.8 in which case it's still a question of what fits in the back to complement it. 2.5-2.6x29 is worth  considering IMHO.

I have a stylus with 27.5x2.6 minions on it and it is great!

I have a minion 2.5WT on  my rootdown and am very happy with the girth.

Thanks for all of the advice so far.  :)

Posted by: rnayel

I have a minion 2.5WT on  my rootdown and am very happy with the girth.

rnayel, which generation of rootdown do you have and what fork are you running on it?

1st gen with the fixed derailleur hanger and 135mm rear axle. Fork is a 2015 Pike (non boost of course), set at 150mm.

Rear tire is a Minion DHR2 2.4 WT and it fits just fine.

I've got your cousin then.  1st gen (with fixed derailleur and 135mm rear axle.)  Size M/L with a 2012 Fox Float 34 RCL 140mm.  :)   I am craving a new fork but I might just settle for a good overhaul at suspensionwerx and maybe one of those replacement fox air cartridges that bring the older 34's up to current spec or some kind of a push mod.

Posted by: TheWhiz

I've got your cousin then.  1st gen (with fixed derailleur and 135mm rear axle.)  Size M/L with a 2012 Fox Float 34 RCL 140mm.  :)   I am craving a new fork but I might just settle for a good overhaul at suspensionwerx and maybe one of those replacement fox air cartridges that bring the older 34's up to current spec or some kind of a push mod.

I had a 34CTD that I had upgraded by Suspension Werx with the Push mod and it was amazing. Highly recommended to have it updated the next time the fork is in for service.

I did this with my Explosif. Extended the fork by 20mm (to 140mm) and added a -1deg Works Components headset. It's not been on the bike that long, but seems to work really well so far; the bike feels way more aggressive and comfortable carrying speed. I did find that my first ride was pretty messy; I kept blowing out corners and understeering all over the place. I think that I was slower to adjust to the more forward body position needed when it was a change in geometry on the same bike rather than going to a new bike, and I'd find myself default to sitting too far back when things got a little wild. So, maybe take it easy first few rides and give yourself time to adjust!