Long-distance ATB - Hulsroy X Witslingers

Where are we?
I sorted the front brake by carefully going over the posts with a file.(Ideally I want to face the posts with the proper tool, but I don't have it on hand), checked every bolt and went for a mini shakedown around the block.

The bike is lovely !
There is always a bit of anxiety when confronting what you imagined how the bike behaves in reality. Gladly, it is more or less as expected :)
It smoothes the bumps quite nicely, and feels a bit more springy than my current bike, especially when accelerating. Which is surprising, given how stable and planted it feels while pootling along.
Compared to the Pelago, it does require more input when turning, which I like. Also feels more stable in the turn.
Can't wait to try it in the mountains to see how it fairs - hopefully it will be the curve carver I dream of.

Weight wise - I can feel the steel fork and rack while handling the bike, but once riding, it does not seem to make that of much a difference.

The TRP/Magura braking is very satisfying - if a tad long on the freestroke. But the power is definitely there, even with barely bedded in pads.

So - what's next ?

• Fender stays need to be trimmed
  
• Last wire to be soldered and then we'll have light (I'm waiting for a coax connector, I somewhat ordered the wrong number)
  
• Gears to be adjusted and/or cabling sorted (ghost shifting when I really push)
  
• Cockpit needs to be adjusted. I will ride it as is for a while before cutting the fork. A shorter stem would be worth trying
  
• Bar tape ! Not sure which model nor color. Suggestions welcome.
  
  

EDIT : Obligatory BAAW pic