First time on a fat bike and enjoyed the ride. Salsa Mukluk. Yes, they are slow, much slower than a 29er. Yes, they lend themselves to spinners, not pedal mashers. Yes, the low air pressure(10psi) and large tires negate the need for suspension fork or frame. Yes, they are like a monster truck in that they roll over just about anything.

I also rode a Krampus. Again very low tire pressure @ 15psi. I liked it better than the Mukluk as it was more mountain bike like and faster with same effort. Certainly no need for suspension fork or frame with the 29+ platform. I could tell it was a tad slower than my Anthem 29, but not unacceptable. Without a doubt on rough trails with lots of drops and ruts I would want my Anthem 29.

As for drive train shift performance, the XT bike did not shift as crisp and quick as the X9 bike. Reaffirmed my love of the X9 stuff.

I want to get both, but can't have either one!(the misses is da boss)

Buy da boss something really nice and maybe she will return the favor.

I took a short ride on a Krampus a couple months ago and it really got me thinking about getting one to play around on.

I would like one for exploring dirt roads and off-roading in the river bottoms, but I can't justify another bike just for that.

I thought you just did.

When was the last time you saw a trailer on a hearse?

i.e. You can't take it with you. At this age might as well indulge a bit. After all, when you get tired of the new bike you can always sell it thus reducing actual cost.

My Rockhopper with 2.0 tires does a pretty good job off-road.