200mm Vanilla RL

[RoentgenRanger]

I know this stuff has been beat to death, but I'm gonna ask anyhow.  How much of a negative effect will running a 200mm(7 7/8") Vanilla RL have on the geometry?  I know it'll slacken the head angle, but I'm not sure how much.

[numbnuts]

I don't think the slacker angle is a negative thing, it is not a big change, but it is noticeable. I like it, some don't!

[GaryF52]

None whatsoever, in my opinion!  I have a 200mm Fox Vanilla R on my Disco Monkey.  Can't really notice any effect on the steering, but having a quality shock greatly improves handling and ride.   In fact I think a quality shock is almost a 'must do' upgrade for any Evo frame.  

[dmc]

I've got a 200mm Vanilla RC on the back of my evo and its great, I did notice that I hit my pedals a bit more in the beginning but not for long. dmc

[keen]

 I think it makes a noticable difference. I went up an 1.5" in the front w/ a Marzocchi fork. My head tube angle went from 70.5 deg. to 68 deg. Downhills are cool but general XC riding got a little tougher. What I did on another bike, That I was going to alter the rear shock length, was make a mock up fixture (drilled broom stick) @ the desired shock length and mount it in place of the rear shock. You should also factor in sag. Put a 7.5" fixture in there and take a gentle driveway cruise to see if you like your slower steering. I am still out on the trails trying to decide if I like my 68 deg. head angle.

[Phillip]

The 200mm shock with slow handling down slightly, but no where near as bad as the change of going from a 80mm fork to a 100mm fork. As the post above said, I  notice I hit my pedals more often. I don't thing this is due to the shorter shock as much as more suspension travel. I've lost some handling quickness but gained an incredable ride. It's a trade off.