After 3 rides including a night ride and a 4.5 hour epic this morning, I have only good things to say about the Duke 29er. Coming off a rigid SS Karate Monkey, I imediately noticed the smoothness of the ride. I was taking down hill sections faster than guys on 4-5 inch FS bikes. So needless to say, I am extremely happy w/ the outcome. While the shape may be ackward, it gives me the standover height that I need. The bend also makes for a very comfortable shoulder spot. No doubt, this will be my new enduro race bike.