I did not modify the length, did not notice any need to.  I did make the bushing also though.  My shock pivots freely.

I sanded the primer off down to the epoxy with 400 grit wet sandpaper (would not recommend, too labor intensive).  I didn't weigh before and after, but I belive the matte clearcoat I sprayed after is a little lighter but not worth it unless you just want to see the weave.  I used the Shimano chain guide SM-CD800 ISG05.

Two rides in, this thing rides like a Cadillac compared to the M2 Stumpjumper circa 1997 I've been riding.  BTW the grip and pace is unreal.

Some of the details of my build.  Shock pivot pin threads were kind of buggered up, so made a new Ti pin with some stainless bolts.  Also turned a custom 8mm to 1/2 bushing for shock mount out of TECAPEEK.  Accents in copper, plan was for "dolemite" to be in chrome, but that failed miserably so black for now.

Finally finished the build today.  11.27 kgs for an XL. I had the same issue with the axle.  Solved it with a thin washer under the head of the axle.  Looking forward to the shakedown ride.

Found this after removing the black primer.  Anyone know what it is?  Looks like maybe a tag or something?  It is embedded in a rather thick layer of un-reinforced epoxy in the downtube.

Received my un-painted XL FM909 11/26/21, ordered 10/23/21, after being on reserve since since 9/8/21. 1973g with rear axle, no shock, no headset.  Box was damage in transit, but frame arrived unscathed.  Working on painting first and then looking forward to my first new bike build since 1997