I replaced some parts: new deore derailleur, unfortunately xt didn’t survive the beating anymore. And while I was working on the bike, I installed Ochain chainring, I’m curious to see if it really makes a difference, especially on long descends.
Rode the bike and then serviced it: Proper cleaning and checking the bearings, also adjusted the head angle from slack to less slack, 63,8 to 64something.
Someone already mentioned 45NRTH. I've Wölvhammers and Ragnaröks. Depends how you define winter, what is good and what not. In Finland I used Wölvhammers regularly (not only cycling but also skiing) but after moving to Austria I haven't worn them in years. Ragnaröks are more than enough here...
I’m considering something like this or Ochain/rimpact on my Amish bike park rig, but I share your thoughts of dead band on technical trails. Ochain and rimpact are just way too expensive.
As a safety feature, I dress up like a circus. I don’t understand people basically camouflaging themselves when going on an mtb ride. And roadies wearing only black and no lights, that’s a death wish.
Emtb from LBS, warranty cases etc BOSCH related, everything else from internet I'd say. For suspension related topics I've couple of specialists, one in Austria and one in Finland.