DH checked out a brand new 29er demo bike from our LBS--DH was the first person to ride it. LBS even offered to let him race it this weekend at Iceman. But DH was not all that impressed with it. Although it was a more comfortable ride, he didn't think it climbed as well as his 26" Stumpjumper. There is no doubt that the 29er's are heavier. Now he is looking at some 2012 26" bikes and might try riding another 29er.