Built a new Nicolai G1. Had a few Nicolai's over the years including a couple of hefty G-Boxx bikes. This new G1 is the best of the lot. It can run 29er or 650b wheels. Travel adjusted between 160 and 175mm travel with shock mount position, chainstays can also be lengthened. It is a very adaptable bike. All in it weighs 31lbs, not bad for a 160mm travel rig.
I have a second set of cheaper aluminium rimmed wheels that I built up for more aggressive riding, using DT ex511 rims. This second set of wheels is in the "mullet" configuration, 650b out back and 29er front. Have not had much time on this set up so difficult to give proper feedback on how they differ from a standard 29er front rear combo.
New XTR 12 speed is very nice and it does like changing gear with power on which feels a bit unusual. shimano have stated that this is a feature of the new XTR and I cant disagree.
Photos were from a sunny UK day in the Peak district riding the classic Edale, Hollins Cross, Mam Tor, Hayfield, Jacobs Ladder, Edale circular route. The brown ribbon of descent is the top of Jacobs lader descent, great fun.
Off to Lake Garda in Italy in August to give the bike a proper workout, looking forward to it.
