Hi all,

Longtime lurker, first time poster.

I built up a carbon 29er XC hardtail over the pandemic as my first foray into mountain biking. I've been absolutely loving it, and think I want to make the step up to a full suspension bike next season. There are an overwhelming number of options and I'm hoping I could use some of the community's expertise.

I'm a bigger guy, 6'2" and 240lbs (187cm and 110kg), and looking to build something that's more of a trail/all mountain bike. I've looked at a few options, FM1001 from Carbonda, LCFS713 & LCFS958 from LightCarbon, and CS-821 from XMCarbonSpeed. I don't know if these frames suit me and I'm not sure what exactly I should be looking for aside from front and rear travel in the 130-150mm range. I'm wondering if there is anything I should take into consideration because I'm a heavier rider?

I know technology in the bike world has really progressed the last few years. I was set on a 2x system and noticed there seems to be a lack of front derailleur mounting options on many frames. I'm not opposed to going 1x, as I know many people that love it, but having the flexibility to do both would be nice to have. I would just like to buy a frame that is current and not an obsolete style or geometry.

Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks for your time!

--VU

Hey cybrsrce,  do you feel like the 1mm spacers brought the stiffness to a solid level?  One on each side of seat tube main pivot?  What material are they made of and where did you get them?  Interesting that Eddy is saying they are altering the carbon layup a bit to address the issue. Unfortunately mine will probably not have these changes. Have you gotten the new rear shock in there. Been following your build and reports and am very  interested in hearing how the final product has turned out. Your posts have been very thorough and help to fill a bit of the information vacuum that exists when diving into this process. Thank you!

I got my bolts in the mail from JJJ a few days ago. I was using the 3D printer spacers before getting these. I was pretty happy with the spacers' improvements. I  installed the bolts with washers, and gave the rear a shake. I can still get it to move, but it seems like even less than with the spacers.

Took it for an initial ride on Sunday. I'm very happy with them. I didn't really notice any rear end flex while riding. Not saying there is none now, but it wasn't noticeable to me. I am not the greatest rider and it was only one ride, but it so far so good. And I'm not a light rider at 265lbs.

I was more concerned about a creaking sound I have had since before winter. I'm pretty sure it's coming from the bottom bracket now. I'm still using the cheap provided one, but want to switch it out now. Will any BB92 bracket do? Or is there something special I need to look out for? Recommendations on a good one?