tasteful ‘03 Specialized Big Hit Comp build

[Neko]

Hey all!
Recently (thanks to user Proto2000) I got my dirty paws on my first DH bike, an old Big Hit with some cool upgrades. I got a bunch of progress done between June 27 and now, but the bike still has a long way to go, and I’m hoping to perfect the build by Aug 10, the day that I start 12th grade.
Between 6/27 and now, I’ve stripped the bike down to the bare frame, rear end and linkage, acquired some fancy parts for the build and laid out a rough plan for what components I’ll use.
Here are some basic pics, and I’ll post here when I get more progress done.
Enjoy!

 

[coomber]

Sweet. Those shivers are

 

[Neko]

Thanks, I may have gotten the bike entirely because of them…
Just got a new tube and rim tape for the rear wheel. Looks epic.
Anyone have a 26 x 2.6-2.8 front knobby tire with a skin wall color similar to my Crown Gem? Preferably new or NOS. Can’t find any new ones for sale, everything is either 29 (vomit) or 27.5 (yawn).
Also ISO a 37-38mm wide silver 26” front rim, 36h, double wall, preferably non-eyeleted and with a flat brake surface rather than disc only (using discs though). Basically something similar to my Kruzer King rear rim but 26”.
-Neko