Gary has been pushing conventions since the birth of mountain biking. And the Genesis 2 is an even more different kettle of Fishers than usual...
Frame
The clean layout looks remarkably like the old Sugar bikes, but updated it with modern hydroform tube shaping methods keeps weight very light (5.4lb) even by the latest standards. Tapered carbon fibre seat stays with proper bearings at the rear and press fitted into the linkages give a much smoother suspension action for the 116mm of travel. The real change is at the head end though, where Fisher use a custom-increased offset Manitou fork, short stem and tweaked head angle to create their new G2 geometry.
Ride
The idea is to maintain wheelbase and stability but reduce trail, so the bike steers more consistently and correctably at all speeds. We found that, while it'll turn in an instant on slow, tight singletrack, it felt more nervous on fast, off camber sections. You could get used to it in time, but it's unsettling compared to a conventional bike. Forward weight shift also affects balance and reduces the traction, control and comfort effectiveness of the rear suspension. Steeper fork legs stick rather than slide too, making the fork feel harsh and chattery as soon as you're riding fast. With only two suitable forks available upgrade options are non-existent.
Equipment
Fisher deserve credit for trying something new here, but the Hi Fi is definitely a bike you need to try before you buy. If your riding is typified by slow-speed, hairpin infested technical singletrack you might love it, and weight and kit value are attractive too.
