Bit of an update: Got a really great deal on a Pike Ultimate 120mm with 44mm rake so I decided to try it out. Had to switch to 180mm rotor out front so everything added about 2 kg/ 4.4 lbs to the build.

Fork installation was a breeze until I realized the massive damper adjuster knob wouldn't clear the downtube by a hair  . A frantic internet search yielded a +3mm crown race from Cane Creek (BAA0855K). Bye bye clean flush headtube/fork junction but nice to know I won't crack my downtube with a metal knob.

I've also since changed the headset to a Cane Creek 40 after noticing the stock headset wouldn't stop clunking - The stock IS headset needed/doesn't have a shim spacer. Went with a full new headset as price was fairly reasonable.

I loved how the bike handled before with the rigid carbon fork, but it's now a darn sweet playful whipper.

Have you used a different seatpost?

Their site says 30.8, I want to make sure I can use an actual 30.9 seatpost

I measured a few times (looking to add a dropper) and can confirm it's 30.9. I, too, was initially worried about it being 30.8 but also thought it's unlikely since odd size means they will have a make a 30.8 seat post mold