Now now, let's not bust out the stereotypes. Just cause he races, weight is a big issue? I never heard him say that weight is a big issue... Maybe I am blind?

Just cause you race, weight isn't always a huge issue. I have friends that are racing a few events at Sea Otter (and a perfect bike for Sea Otter would be 6x6) on a 55 lb RM RMX R1... He races, but races cause it's fun, and honestly, doesn't care if he shaved some weight by spending another $400 on a new set of brakes. Granted, that is DH, but still, I'm SURE there are people who race XC on fairly heavy hardtails/full suspension, just cause they love it, there out there to have fun, not to have the lightest/blingiest bike out on the course.