That bike is a beast! And you guys are all saying he is a poser with hookworm tires, but what if he just rides hardpack and wants a bit smoother ride? I mean a downhill bike of that magnitude should probably have grippier tires, but what if he saves his good tires for races and rides around on those?
I was seriously considering buying some because I ride alot of pavement to hardpack, but I will wait.