I will be getting a Zilla in the next couple weeks. I superimposed one over the other and the geometry looks pretty close. Some think it's ugly, but I like the frame on the Zilla better, it theoretically fits wider tires, and based on reviews the carbon fork on the CXD is pretty flexy. Of course the Zilla is 3lbs heavier, but i bet most of that is in the wider tires and steel fork. Both easily replaced if you decide to become a weight weinie.

As for needing to be a bike mechanic to own one, google is your friend. There's plenty of info out there for you to be able to take care of things yourself. Probably wouldn't be that hard to find a friend that can do basic adjustment or maintenance either.