Howdy,

Pulled the trigger on this frameset last week in the XL size, black glossy (normally I'd prefer matte but I've heard the clearcoat provides superior durability and easier cleaning).  I'm a hobbyist roadie/gravel rider, but I have an old 2011 GT 29" Full suspension bike that I wanted to upgrade from so here we are...

Doing a cable XT build with SID suspension, 2p remote (wanted to go 3p "magic middle" but 2p is "older" therefore I found some smoking deals on eBay).  Everything sourced except the rear shock hardware and a few other miscellaneous things, though I might upgrade the bar and stem later once I get the fit dialed in. 

On to questions/feedback solicitation...

Shock hardware:  There seems to be quite a bit of confusion about the bushing hardware; I understand 8x16 is solid, but for the other side I see reports of 8x22 and 8x25 (sanding required??)...  There's also an 8x24.4 option which makes me wonder if that's a better fit.  Which way is best here?

Order to delivery: Roughly how long did your orders take once locked in?

Riding feedback: How does this frame compare to "fast" XC bikes like the Epic 8?