Now it's time for a little update, after I rode this bike more than 300 km.

Compared to the 2007 Author Traction, this one is .. lighter, more sensible in terms of handling and you have more control over the bike in all situations.

I had to change the rear cassette(as I got a second hand bike with the cassette used, though it was Shimano Deore XT), put a Deore instead the old one and changed the chain. But I had problems with the rear derailleur and very often the chain just jumped like crazy from one speed to another, even after setting it up correctly(at a bikes service center or by myself). Can live with this problem, as it works right if you take care of setting it up before riding.

The Manitou shoks I think that have already to be changed, as on a little more harsh conditions they make the bike less controllable. But ... these shocks probably already served a long time and should be replaced now.

Had some small accidents and in one of them I hit an obstacle with a 20+ km/h speed and the rear rim absorbed all the shock as I was able to pull in the air only the front wheel. And ... that impact caused 2 holes in the rear wheel. Plus the Mavic rim was ... "a little" hurt. But they fixed it at the bike service and it's fine now, though they advised me to buy a new one as this rim won't take more serious shocks.

So, till now the bike overall handled great and I like it.. it's fast and light and I'm pleased with the purchase I made.

I'll probably get back with an update after I'll have 1000+ km on the bike and see how it handles.