Hi Mate,
In my opinion It rides so much better on 650b's, but that may be due to the fact that I have go so used to that size because of my Patrol. The Sweeps are magic! they feel better than my pikes! Yes, they were the CRC bargain ones, 110/130/150mm. I have them set to 150mm which really suits the Latitude even though they recommend 130mm travel.
Genesis seem to have nailed it with the geo. Really Long top tube, steep seat tube, but they haven't mad with the head tube angle like all of the other manufacturers at around 66.5/67 degree dependant on travel. To get the best out of it you need plush forks and the sweeps meet that criteria. Also, you can fit big tyres to it too.
You will have to watch out for sizing on these frames, I am just on 6' 3" and this frame is only a large not an XL as that would be way too big (upto 6' 9" !!!)
All in all I highly recommend this frame, for me I wouldn't change anything about it!

I forgot to mention, this frame is Shimano Direct mount rear mech only!

 @wythall1: Well that might just have sealed the deal for me. Been toying with a full suss 2nd hand job most likely or a hardtail again. And freeborn have the frame reduced at the minute which has me tempted.

Have some 150mm metric with the hlr damper so they should be alright on it. Good to know that 150mm forks will do the job as well as that was something I was hoping I wouldn't have to buy again.

Looking at the geo numbers its pretty similar toy medium Bird, so would prob go medium. I have a 31mm stem so it might all work out.

 @mgolder: I looked at the bird myself, but you can't beat the feel of a steel ht frame!

 Cheers! It looks brilliant in the flesh!