Strengths: Supportive around the heel. Ran 9 miles the second time I wore them without any problems. Perhaps made from a different last to previous NB ladies' shoes - mine are a size 7 and I have always previously worn 7.5 in NB.
Weaknesses: I would prefer more forefoot cushioning.
Overall: Very pleased with them so far - I like them a lot more than the 1224. I feel they are both more supportive and more cushioning. I like the 859 too which has more forefoot cushioning but is probably heavier.