Additional changes to bike based on personal preference:
Replaced 105mm stem with 100mm stem
Replaced straight seat post with RaceFace Evolve XC post 
Installed a QR seat post clamp

** Reason behind these additional changes was I wanted the cockpit on this bike to be the same as on the 09 King Kahuna 29. I ran this set up on my 08 Hei Hei 29 and 07 Kula 29 and it worked best for me for the type of trails I ride. 

Quick spin around Pilchuck Woods
 
Bike handled very well. Took a minute to get used to the new parts. This bike has the same reliable ride characteristics as last season. The Fox RL 29 fork felt great. The bike has also shed a little weight in the bottom bracket area with the change to Shimano cranks. The bike is a climber and descends very well.

I'm headed out this weekend for a longer ride. I am going to put the shorter stem and offset seat post from my 08 Hei Hei 29 on to this bike so I can roll some steeper sections a little more comfortably.