I know I'm late to the game but I thought I would do a quick write up for those considering the upgrade after my first 10 mile ride around my normal loop in Colorado. I am coming off a heavily modified 2018 Levo comp to a '19 expert. Fox 36 and spank wheels were carried over so I can't comment on those. Riding ability somewhere in the upper intermediate to expert. Former BMX, Motocross racer.
Positives :
- Feels super light. '19 weights in 2lbs lighter but it feels more like 5lbs on the trail. My line choices have really opened up because of the nimble handling. I can change directly quickly and "play" with the trail.
- Rear suspension. Feels much better.
- Much more confidence inspiring. I assume this is the updated geometry. You can push super hard and hang it out without getting sketchy vs the '18.
- Shuttle mode. Holy Crap. I used to app to set it to 100% on turbo mode. Talk about insanity. I felt like I was riding my dirt bike through the woods. It felt like double the support. Normally the wife is close on climbs but I completely dusted her.
Negatives :
Motor is a good bit louder. I'm sure I'll get used to it.
For the first mile or two the front felt longer but I quickly got used to it and appreciated the stability once I got to the downhills.
Overall I was nervous I wouldn't notice much difference on the trail but I was pleasantly surprised. If you're on the fence go for it. '19 is much more athletic. Just find a deal. The MSRP is crazy for the components you get on the expert.
Positives :
- Feels super light. '19 weights in 2lbs lighter but it feels more like 5lbs on the trail. My line choices have really opened up because of the nimble handling. I can change directly quickly and "play" with the trail.
- Rear suspension. Feels much better.
- Much more confidence inspiring. I assume this is the updated geometry. You can push super hard and hang it out without getting sketchy vs the '18.
- Shuttle mode. Holy Crap. I used to app to set it to 100% on turbo mode. Talk about insanity. I felt like I was riding my dirt bike through the woods. It felt like double the support. Normally the wife is close on climbs but I completely dusted her.
Negatives :
Motor is a good bit louder. I'm sure I'll get used to it.
For the first mile or two the front felt longer but I quickly got used to it and appreciated the stability once I got to the downhills.
Overall I was nervous I wouldn't notice much difference on the trail but I was pleasantly surprised. If you're on the fence go for it. '19 is much more athletic. Just find a deal. The MSRP is crazy for the components you get on the expert.
