thanks!

 Chromag Trailmaster LTD in leather

 Gareyt! thanks

 It's pretty special. I love the cut of the Trailmaster and it's just plush enough to take the edge off on long rides without being spongy. This LTD model has Ti rails and leather. I had to get one for each of my bikes. They also have it in a darker reddish brown.

 XX1, none needed

 It's hard to tell it's XX1 because the cranks are RaceFace with a Wolf Tooth 11 speed chainring. No chain issues whatsoever.

 because brad doesn't need to look at the trail when riding, he gives the chainring a steady glare, making sure that bitch chain doesn't get out of line.

 Secret tactic Nick taught me. You'd never believe what's happening to you when he's staring you down.

 It is a subtle, yet noticeably faster wheel than 26". A little slow in the tight stuff, but overall, for a AM/XC hardtail, considerably smoother with less rear wheel hang-ups. I'm not jumping on the bandwagon just yet for converting all my other bikes to 650 though. 26" will always have it's place as the most versatile size on full suspension bikes.

 That is a sick looking unit!

 certainly a steady steed!

 yes

 oops, I just read the description. thanks for answering politely.

 no worries, it's hard to tell because the frame is XL so the wheels could pass for 26" at first glance.

 is there an article coming? Interested to hear about many parts of this set up.

 No, but feel free to ask whatever.

 Cool. So eye-balling the HA looks to be around 67-68? Looks like the after-market is responding to the XX1 drivetrain. Do you know if the alternating ring innovation is compatible with 10spd chains? I'm a dinosaur with my 1x9 set up but want to move to a quieter more reliable system if it can be had (thinking the front ring + a clutch rear mech). Lastly, the 650b hardtail seems to make a lot of sense to me but wondering if there's a noticeable boost to the riding experience. Cheers.

 I'm not exactly sure of HA. I trust the Chromagnons got it right. According to reviews, the alternating tooth profile does help to keep 10spd chains in place. It certainly is compatible. If you really want chain retention without a guide, 11spd is probably the safest bet. Google can help you find more answers. Don't hesitate on a clutch rear mech- it's crucial and you'll be ashamed for ever becoming so uncivilized as to not have one. 650b rolls a little faster. I like it a lot on technical climbs. As for the descent, the jury is still out for me. It's a little slower in the tech stuff, but it does have a bit of a steamroller effect when the trail gets nasty. Overall I like it on the hardtail, but I'm not in a hurry to convert my other bikes. If I lived anywhere other than PNW, it's more likely I'd be on big wheels full time.

 thanks Brad. I've been eyeing their 29er (rootdown) which seems to be intended for more of the AM set. With the way trail building here is heading, there will be a pretty decent network soon. By that I mean slopes less than 50deg. I just ordered a clutch mech. I am now shame free. enjoy the ride.