Frame and fork with thru axle are super solid and only weighs 150 grams more than the carbon version, Hydro brakes are awesome, shifting is good, saddle and carbon seat post combo are comfortable. Wheels and tires are decent. Handling is good on and off road and on the cross course.

The bike comes with a kit to set the tires up tubeless, and the rims/tires are tubeless ready. The tires are pretty loose on the rim and you need CO2 or a compressor to seat the tires. Results are mixed so far, the rear wheel won't hold air after 2 tries. Will have to try a different tire or put a tube in. Don't know how long the brake pads will last when it gets muddy.

This bike is a solid value with many innovative upgrades. Hydraulic brakes, front through axle, internal cable routing and compliant carbon post sold me over other bikes with mechanical brakes and external cables & QR axles. I don't see the need to spend another $1000 to drop 150g for the carbon version, the equipment spec is virtually the same.