pretty heavy still dont ya think, just cuz mine is 33 with a chain guide and a rear derailleur, just wrote lol thinking what i could get mine to if i single speeded, sorry.
Converting to single speed doesn't save much weight. My bike could stand to be a bit lighter, but I like it the way it is and honestly can't think of anything I'd want to change on it.
Awesome. You can set it up stiff, and forget about the back until you actually need it, or you can have it soft. I really like the geo on it, it has a natural feel, took me no time at all to get comfortable. The little Roco on there does a damn fine job, too. I have mine pretty soft right now, but I never feel harsh landings at all, even if I know I bottom. I'd very highly recommend it if you're looking for a fun bike.
I just have the stock cups in. It should be right around 67.5 when I have the Pike at 130. It rides fine there. I leave the Pike right around 100 mm a lot of the time, I don't know if it's because of the lower front end or head tube angle, but I almost prefer it set low. I've been nothing but impressed with this bike. THE ONLY complaint I have is that I have to run my front ring on the very outside tabs, so I have a pretty shitty chainline. I'm too poor (read: lazy) to get a new ring and cog on the back. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask.
I'd rather not void the warranty. If the warranty's off for some reason, and they get super beat, I'll probably paint them, but I think I'd go with white, honestly.
and nice bar