The major differences I can deduce are the Rear Shock, X-Fusion is pretty Generic, Fox Vanilla R is only one step down from top of the line. A Fox Vanilla RC is found on many top-end bikes. Fox is well know for quality and durability!
Forks? I personally like Marzocchi forks, but the EXR is toward their low end, and only has 100 mm of travel. The Psylo is a good fork and has adjustable travel from 80-125mm, a nice feature to have!
Discs? I think I'd prefer the Avid's than the Deore Hydro's, but hydro's aren't as much maintenance as people think they are. I rarely adjust mine, and only think about them when I have to replace pads.
What else? Deore shifters and frnt derailleur on both, XT vs. LX for the rear. Almost no cost difference, only like $10 retail, so it's a toss-up.
If you can get the X-2 for under $700, I'd say go for it! It's a good deal and a nice bike. If it were me, I'd see what I could save by switching out the Deore Mech's for Avid's and see what kind of break they could do for you on the X-1. (Like I said, if it were ME!)
As far as the Escape. Those are sweet bikes. Rocket hardtails, big, burly, and built to last!
L8R
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"Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming, "WOW, What a Ride!" - unknown
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