For most of the terrain in Colorado I really appreciate my full suspension setup. The rear travel is just a blast on the rocky downhill sections, on the soft pine needle laden burmy corners, on the little jumps where I can get some air. Getting the chance to pump every ounce of speed out of trail is just pure fun! Additionally, I like the dampening effect on long trails for my back. And for a fork I couldn't say more good things about the benefits of an adjustable fork. Mine adjusts between 90mm and 130mm and makes a HUGE difference for me on the climbs versus DH. Some of the trails around Crested Butte are just fine with a hard tail (i.e. 401), but for most of Colorado I prefer a FS. The weight difference of a HT versus a FS just doesn't make a big enough argument for me and my riding style. I can lock out my rear. I can lock out my fork. My fork travel adjusts for climbing and downhill. The variations allow me to adjust for my personal needs as well as the needs of the trail. In three years of abuse none of xc suspension parts have failed.
As for bikebacking versus day riding - I use the same bike for both because the same bike works really well for almost everything I ride... it comes down to adjustability for me. I also used the same bike to commute on the road last summer too. The one thing that does change though is my tires. I find my tread makes a huge difference. I try to match tread with terrain (when I can afford it)!
my two cents
bart
