Mid-travel dual suspension frames, and triple clamp forks.

[sxereturn]

I'm looking at getting a new frame/fork set up. I'm pretty keen on a set of Manitou Sherman Slider Plus forks, they look the goods, are light, have SPV, and if they are anything like their single crown counterparts, are strong as fuck. Any cons about these?

The frame situation isn't as easy. I'm looking for a semi-lightweight, 6-8", do everything bike. I don't like Stinky's, or any bike that has the Stinky style linkages. I want to smile when I go to ride my bike, not throw up. I was thinking of a Santa Cruz Bullit, but they are a little old-school. What suggestions do people have? I would kick my mum in the throat for a VP-Free, but I really don't want to spend that much.

[Dirt Devil]

I have a 6" Sherman Slider (TPC+) on my bike, and the only down side was supposed to be reduced turning radius. Can't say I've ever noticed it, and I ride some tight trails. SPV can be a pro or a con but it depends who you ask. Are you getting '04 or '05 model. The '05 SPV Evolve is supposed to be better in the small stuff compared to last year.

I have an '04 Craftworks FRM which I reckon is a great all round sled. It has a Horst link so it isn't a "Stinky style" linkage. Although you can't run a 7" fork on it unless you don't care about the warranty.

[Sethius]

how about a gemini frame? or the yeti asx 04 models on special. they are light and capable of alot and both can run 6-7" single crown forks and both have a 1.5 headtube.

[One-Nut]

for $2,500 (full retail) the bullit frame is a good option and at least the boys from santa cruz australia live locally so back up should be good.
i think carso is doing some deals on them.

[LTR]

1. Yeti ASX?
2. Please dont get sliders. 2003 super t's?

[sxereturn]

LTR - why?

I am leaning towards Santa Cruz simply because I will get a kick arse price on one from Carso, me being an ex-employee and all.

[udi]

1. Yeti ASX?
2. Please dont get sliders. 2003 super t's?

I'm with LTR. The bullit is so, like, yesterday! *girly voice*

ASX looks way hotter (we all know looks is all that matters) has more travel (7.5"), and the 1.5 headtube.

And as for shermans, well i'd go the 05 they are supposed to have better sensitivity with the spv evolve, but being a marzocchi guy i'd be looking out for a nice set of 03 or 04 superT's myself.

The only other cons for the sherman would be limited tyre clearance and limited turning radius but meh nothing to have a teary over.

[sxereturn]

The AS-X is growing on me. I wonder whether TC's could get them in. The only thing I don't like about it is the 1.5" steerer. I am soooo not a fan of them.

I don't plan on running anything larger than a 2.5" tire on the front. I like the idea of SPV because I want to do everything - DH, ride to the shops, trail riding, hit the dirt jumps on the way home from work...