trashpanda profile

https://www.amazon.com/RockShox-Travel-DebonAir-Control-Tapered/dp/B072DYPHB2/ref=sr_1_fkmr1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1511891742&sr=8-1-fkmr1&keywords=rockshox+lyrik+29+180+mm

https://www.amazon.com/RockShox-Lyrik-Position-Boost-Offset/dp/B072JKDHKD/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1511891869&sr=8-6&keywords=rockshox+lyrik+29

that must be new this year, hadn't seen that size before, though the xl is slightly shorter wheelbase on the nicolai than the pole, and shorter chainstay except for the xxl frame.  Interesting that chainstay length increases with sizes, seems like a good idea.  Frame is also $1000 euros more than I got the Pole for though, plus I think it ships with a David Hasselhoff CD...

I pulled the trigger and pre-ordered the longest bike in pre-existence, the newly revised Pole Evolink 158 in an xl.  Not delivered until April, but super excited.  1353 mm wheelbase and 535 mm reach, but with a very steep seat angle, so not expecting much of a difference with actual reach seated compared to my current bike.  Review of the current 140 mm version being updated to the 158: 

http://enduro-mtb.com/en/pole-evolink-140-29-review/

I'm looking at replacing my giant reign with an evolink 150.  I'm at 188 cm, looking at being right on the edge of the L and XL sizes, I know they recommend on their site to size down if in between, but do you have any insight into the frame sizing having actually ridden it on Canadian soil?  Also, what have they been like to deal with, how long from order to receiving?  Initial impressions/comparisons to other bikes you've had?  thank you in advance.

Amazon.com ships Maxxis as well, choose the "ship to Canada" box on the left to filter your search results.  TBS in Kelowna also has some Maxxis online.

this year I did some internet sleuthing and found out you can fit a 2.8 maxxis on a non-boost regular old pike/lyric.  So I snapped up a minion dhf and dhr, been trying the dhf 2.8 exo casing.  I went with these as they're a tidge over 1000 g, as I had the same concerns about the lightweight 800 g 2.8's (Rekon).  The 2.8's actually measure closer to 2.6.  I have it mounted on a chinese carbon 31 mm internal width rim, run it around 18-19 psi (I'm 200 pounds).  I run a regular 2.4 or 2.35 depending on brand in the back.

I love this thing, it rolls really well, I don't notice the roll-over in corners, but don't ride a lot of hard packed bermed trails.  Traction is great with minimal rolling speed tradeoffs.  I don't see a downside, have had it in some very rocky terrain with no issues, though as a rear, it may be a concern.  I say try it out on your regular bike in the front with minimal risk before going full plus size new bike.