Ill just post my reply here, since the photo's more appropriate, lol. Anyways, congrats again on the M9, a dream frame for sure. Have you pedalled a V10 carbon around? I mean before making your decision to go with the M9. Same suspension, and similar linkage; but heard the M9 has a more linear feel? Hows the CC double barrel? Wondered how having 2 rebound adjustments help with more technical, or gnarlier stuffs Are you at full 9.5" travel mode?
Never pedalled the v10c... in fact my first choice was the v10c, but santa cruz jerked me around for 5 months on a small frame and gave up. so went with plan "B" ... the M9... did get to see a small v10c built recently and impressed by the weight (or lack there of)... so cloud like! as for the M9 ... still dialing in the rear suspension.... have it set at 9" right now.. still seems a little too stiff even at high speeds... fork seems set a perfect setting though... all so much to get used to compared to my old VP-Free... the longer wheel base and slighly lower bottom bracket is a little odd... but learning to love it! can't wait for the next race... win or lose!
Wow Mega stoked for ya. I know exactly what you mean with the longer wb and lower bb height. I pedaled a 2011 Demo around, and compared to my SX Trail, and I hate to admit it, but the 0.75in difference in wheelbase length is hugely noticeable, and the super low bb is real stable, felt at home instantly.
And with the rear shock, if you've almost tried every adjustment and still feels stiff, maybe the next softer spring? What's your sag right now with your current setup? I believe the 40 is perfect for that frame, even my Van 180 is so nice, I can't imagine the 2012 40's
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States 
Are you at full 9.5" travel mode?
