I have been riding mtn bikes since front shock was just an idea. The Epic is really a great balance of latest tech and old school feel. The Brain shock works just as it should providing the old school hard tail rigid fork feel when pumping up a climb and allowing for the supple bump absorption on the way down. All the components work as they should, I am super impressed with electronic shifting but that review is for component manufacturers website. The only thing I would change and did change was upgrade to the sworks version of the tires. The bike feels more alive with lighter more supple casing of the sworks. Love this ride!

Love the epic, pedaling is effortless, carries momentum like no other bike I’ve ridden. This bike feels like an extension of you, no matter what your skill level is. The brain suspension is incredibly intuitive and articulate. Well equipped and attractive package. Bottom line, this is a no hassle rocket of fun. Hard to beat the performance and value. You need one!

Overall I like the bike, but I think the disappointment I have is all focussed at the SRAM GX AXS. At this price point I think I was expecting the performance of Deore XT or better, unfortunately for some reason it is difficult to find bikes with XT so I ended up settling for SRAM GX.

Got the epic yesterday and I’d say I’m pretty pleased with it I just wish it came with X01 cable instead of the gx axs.

I began racing xc last year when I joined our local NICA team. I quickly noticed that my 2018 rockhopper just wasn't flowing over the roots as well as I had hoped. I live in South Carolina where roots are plentiful, and they can really kill your momentum, especially if you're going uphill. the sun tour fork that came stock had just about had it, and I was looking to lose some weight too. The Epic is right at 25 pounds for a size large with Shimano Xtr pedals, about 5 pounds lighter that my previous bike. On my first ride I found another pleasant surprise. I had expected the suspension to be a little harsh because of the brain, kind of like a softer version of my hardtail. I was pleased to find that it was actually very compliant on rocks and roots, while still being very firm on the flat. In fact, it felt just about as good as my dad's 130mm travel Stumpjumper! My only complaint is that I wish it came with the xo1 cassette and chain instead of the gx.