northboy

100% this. XC race bike not being handle drops like that should be recalled as being dangerous to users. Just hope that it was a failure of that one particular bike and not a feature of entire new Scalpel model line.

because they use integrated SystemBar XC-One and the only way how to fit are spacers, unfortunately

@mikekazimer: There is reason for focus on apparel in XC and that is aero gains at speeds over 25kmh at flat land or uphill. Those are quite significant wattage gains / losses driven by just what you wear. Over 1-2hours racing minutes of time. Those are irrelevant in gravity riding but matters in XC / road racing. Mike, if you say that it is cultural issue, that is explains why we don't feel that this review is written from XC rider perspective. And its ok, its gravity audience here mostly as seen from downvotes to most of XC riders points.

@Hectorsolo: I agree with you. Its XC bike review for gravity audience. Nothing wrong with that.

Why dont'you mention the weight of tested model?

@blast-off: I would rather say that the new Epic and Epic Evo will share frames and both will add 10mm suspension vs previous generations.

They have already released new Epic last year, haven't they?

RIP the lightest XCO full suspension frame-set at the market.

@TyBronder: @TyBronder: I have learned to put that in back pocket, Spare tube from Tubolito (45grams), tools from Wolf plus mount lever , that all packed into tiny sachets and it all weights around 150grams and fits in one pocket. If I ad plugs tool its another 25grams. Don't need to get frameset heavier by around 200grams. 1,7liter water at frame. Plus I ad some foot like banana into my second pocket. Important is to have stretched pockets, that I don't need to carry anything even for 4hours rides. I guess people will downvoted me but I everyone should try before making judgement. It took me several years of experimenting with different hip backs as well before I learned this.

@sarahmoore: maybe its possible to consider to use another one photo of the only photos you have rights, or just rather no photo at all. Just an idea. Also Peter has zero chance to gain enough points but has chance to get a wild card. It would be interesting if Pinkbike could make a research and report what is the chance.