this one is a "strange" so the geometry is different but i have had the standard one, i really like it, it's not the fastest thing up a climb but on the whites level trail at afan i find it easier to climb on this than on my 07 clockwork as the back end grips really well. as far as the downhills go it's awsome, the head angle is the same as the "5" on it so the steering is spot on (not that i had any issues with the last one) it's very plush and feels like it has more travel than the quoted 4 inch. i think it is perfect for trail centres and day riding in up and down areas.