Good point.
I have been looking at the different levels of the FSR XC and the stumpjumper, and noticing that the rear shock is that generic coil over description from the specialized page, while the othe frames have a propedal assist Fox shock at least. I know the frame is upgradable, but rear shocks are also pretty expensive. I was wondering how well the rear coil over would perform. I know the suspension design is excellent, and a salesman at the local shop hinted that the propedal assist is a bit redundant because of how well the horst link works. I was just looking for some other opinions. I think the step up to fox equipped bike is a hefty $400 (of course you also get a fork with lock out, and some other drive train upgrades).

Sorry long intro. How does the coil over shock compare to the Fox propedal shock in terms of performance?

I assume that the front fork is your run of the mill coil sprung, entry level XC fork similar to what I am riding now. I like my fork, but I have never ridden anything else.