The suspension characteristics stay the same under braking on the kona, so it doesnt become rigid. My bike is about 17kg maybe less when i run the air shock in it! Im 65kg and use a 350lb spring with a Vivid, or a 300lb spring in a fox rc4. i think i run 140psi when using the air shock.
Yeah i use a neckbrace, At first it was really uncomfortable but now i can hardly notice it and never go riding without it. I'm not to sure where you can get a Kona jersey from, maybe ask your local Kona dealer. I havent tested any of the 2012 bikes yet. I like the chainstay length on the kona as it is. I think if its too short it will loose the bikes high speed stability.

I never work out how to ride a course when i walk down it. I learn it from riding it mostly! And every time i come into a section i will brake differently, because you never come into a section the same. The only secret i know that works for everybody is to beleive in yourself, always!