Which is a better bike - the 856 or the 857?

[orange]

Which is a better bike - the 856 or the 857?

I know what you're going to say - depends what for. Go on give me some scenarios then!! Which is better for what and why. Assume same kit and forks, so frame is the key.

[shovelon]

Between the 2, they are pretty close. For modifications, the 856 is a wonderfully crafted machined. I think it is lighter too.

Terry

[Simon]

I've always prefered the 856,
I like the short stiff s/arm.

Simon

[orange]

I'm glad you've said that as I prefer my XP-8 (which I'm told is the 856 for the UK) over my 857 and yet can't quite pin down why...

[Simon]

I'm glad you've said that as I prefer my XP-8 (which I'm told is the 856 for the UK) over my 857 and yet can't quite pin down why...

For me its stiffer back end,
short s/arm with rear pivot opposed to
a long carbon arm with a forward pivot,
this (IMHO) gives a much stiffer backend
with less lateral flex,
the result a much livelier accecleration and tracking
but best of all (for me) the way it shots up steep climbs with all effort going into pushing you forward,
anyway thats what I think,
interested in other opinions though.

Simon.  

[orange]

which bobs more or is that more dependent on the shock unit?

[Simon]

which bobs more or is that more dependent on the shock unit?

Don't think either are noted for bobbing,
my 856 didn't but that could be down to my
riding style (seated and spinning),
though your in the best position to answer this
you do have both bikes  

Simon.

[willem]

I started out with a 455 - which is more like the 857 geometry.
Gotta say the longer swing arm has more wobble.
(Given equal amounts of "slop" in the pivots, the longer arm will allow more side-to-side movement.)

Love the "Dig In" effect of the 856.