I agree with the rider wins the race. My father has a buddy that has a 05 epic with the brain fade teco stuff, sweat stuff. They are both equal riders(fat). My dad has a old shwin. The last race was a tough rooted race. I told him his friend would beat him because his bike would fly right over them with fancy equipment. My dad beat him and was quite proud of himself. Sore but he beat him!

I kind-of jumped the gun with the Cobia. I have orderd one 2 weeks ago. Still havent gottin it. My bike shop has a 18 frame (I need a 17.5). I rode that one awile because I was not too fond of the 29er tire. Changed my mind but I dont think I am too atached to them. So I dont have race experience with them. When I finally get it I will get the weight, and post some pictures.

My team leader pointed the Cobia out. She said it was the "un-noticed podium bike", while our mecanic said it was personal chose. It dose roll nicer, and the Tora shock is a beast!
This is where I got mine, and the team Im on.
http://thebikehubonline.com/itemdetails.cfm?id=875