Pike? For an XC HT?

You should be looking at a Fox 32, SID RCT3, etc.

 

You're right - I would get the SID fork instead.

 

The new SID with the Charger damper is phenomenal.

 

That's only available in the World Cup version, right?

 

Seems a nice build, except for the pike. Where are you getting that frame at that price?

 

Pike is not happening - I just edited my post.

I bought the frame used off Craigslist

 

I'd recommend the SID RCT3 over the XX. The XX doesn't make use of the new for 2016 Charger damper. Which, in my opinion, vastly outperforms the XX motion control damper.

 

Ritchey bars instead of enve?

https://ritcheylogic.com/superlogic-15mm-low-rizer-mountain-bar

Mine came in at 162g. A little lighter than the enve. Kind of hard to recommend bars because they are all different widths rise etc. but the ritchey is one of the lighter ones I've found that can be had at a reasonable price.

 

Check out mtzoom for bars. I have a 720mm that was 123g and 160.00 Canadian shipped. They make sweet riserbars in longer lengths too.

 

That frame is sexy...post a pick when you get it built!
Also, whats the frame weigh in at?

 

Thanks! It weighs 1,185 grams.

 

My personal preference is to go with SRAM 1x11.

1175 cassettes can be had on ebay for 100 bucks. They weight ess than xtr at 325 grams. I pair that with the GX Mech and shifter and pcx1 chain.

If that is BB30, the X0 cranksets can be had for very cheap and Wolftooth and others make a super light direct mount chainring for that crank for a clean and creak free package. (lighter than srams direct mount.)

 

My personal preference is to go with SRAM 1x11.

1175 cassettes can be had on ebay for 100 bucks. They weight ess than xtr at 325 grams. I pair that with the GX Mech and shifter and pcx1 chain.

If that is BB30, the X0 cranksets can be had for very cheap and Wolftooth and others make a super light direct mount chainring for that crank for a clean and creak free package. (lighter than srams direct mount.)

My problem with 11sp Sram is that it's not compatible with my wheelset.

My wheelset is 8/9/10 sp. Though, I've been told that Shimano 11 sp will work with 8/9/10 sp.

 

Yes, or your hub could be converted with an 80 dollar freehub.

 

What is a better fork for XC racing? RS World Cup XX (100mm) or a World Cup RCT3 (120mm)?

 

RCT3 is a superior damper, IMO.

 

Thanks - does it require a lot of maintenance?

Also, will 120mm throw off my geometry?

 

I think the 120mm will actually make it better.

The RCT3 is no better or worse than others in terms of maintenance. That said, every fork I've owned performs better with more maintenance. Meaning, changing the oil once a month as opposed to once a year will result in better operation, longer overall life, etc. It's an incredibly simple thing to do once you know what you're doing. Takes 10min and your fork will feel better, more often. Honestly, I might start doing it before every race. I think it makes that much of a difference.

 

Why do you say 120mm will make it better?

Thanks for the info - I will definitely look into learning how to service the fork. I found a sweet deal for a used WC RCT3 for $600 - I'm hoping to pick it up today.

 

I ended up buying this fork for $500

The only thing I noticed is the lockout doesn't lock out completely. Maybe it needs air or something...

 

Actually, the RCT3 damper won't lock completely if the damper oil is a bit low.

 

I agree with Le Duke, a 120mm fork will make the bike handle better, since most XC bikes have a too-steep of a head angle, especially if you ride a size L or larger bike. If you had a FS bike, you'd want to pair this with offset bushings to slacken things out a little.

I have fully customized a once-twitchy Jet 9 RDO from 71.5* to about 69* and it has improved my results.

 

I agree with Le Duke, a 120mm fork will make the bike handle better, since most XC bikes have a too-steep of a head angle, especially if you ride a size L or larger bike. If you had a FS bike, you'd want to pair this with offset bushings to slacken things out a little.

I have fully customized a once-twitchy Jet 9 RDO from 71.5* to about 69* and it has improved my results.

I disagree with putting longer travel forks on bikes intended for shorter travel unless specifically called out by the manuf. Just slapping a longer fork on a bike can throw off the natural balance of the bike. Enough to make a difference, YMMV, but it's a risk. There is a reason most manuf change frame angles for bikes with longer travel.

 

Final Build

Here's the final build for those that are interested.