Regarding the slacker head tube, what are the strengths and weaknesses of that design? I would call myself a cross country racer. I’m mostly done with racing but still enjoy fast and flowy more than slow and technical.

And to contribute slightly to the ‘bs’ my observation with chinese carbon is you’re  generally not going to be purchasing the most ‘lightweight’ carbon on the market. I have chinese carbon rims that aren’t the lightest but are still amazing. Honestly I think I prefer the security of a little heft if I’m getting a chiner.

This also applies to 058 (258 newer model of same frame?)...

I'll start with background .. then questions.. opinions appreciated.

I have IP-036 (xmiplay).. within 2 weeks the chainstay cracked.  Should have been covered but they gave me a hard time and was easier and quicker to just pay $115 and have a new one sent.  The new piece was incompatible with the hardware from the original frame (different bushing type  .. c-clip vs push-in).  I had to custom order shim washers in order to make the bike rideable.  XMIPlay was useless in trying to rectify the issue.  While the bike is rideable, there is now an insane amount of play in the rear and I'm looking for a solution, or considering scrapping and purchasing a different frame.  Questions, for those of you in the know, are:

1) Do you think if i take to a LBS, they may be able to fix the problem?
2) xmiplay has IP-FS029 (http://www.xmiplay.com/ProductDetails1724).  Is this the same as FM-258 (http://www.hongfu-bikes.com/html_Products/Mountain_Frame/29ER_Mountain_Frame/2017/0622/482.html) ?
3) Does anyone own any of these bikes and can they comment on the play in the bushings?  Solid?  Or is their play?
4) Has anyone ridden the 036 and the newer style and can comment on the difference?

much thanks!
-gmo