You would have to beat me silly to ride anything but a Horst Link 4-bar link suspension design. BTW, I'm about 250-260 lbs. Bearings at all pivots are good, but not necessary. Look at Turner Bikes. No bearings at all. Zircal bushings.
I think your fear is unjustified. The only thing is a frequent bolt tightness check takes a little longer.
The Dawg is a nice bike. $2,000 will buy you an Ellsworth FRAME ONLY!
I'm a big fan of Specialized bikes. Check out their Enduro line-up for a great bike.
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"Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming, "WOW, What a Ride!" - unknown
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