Yep, same frame with different suspension options. There is also a flip chip on the shock mount to tweak the frame geometry a bit (It ships in different settings for the evo vs. the regular epic 8). If I was building a bike from scratch, I’d look for an evo frame. I generally prefer the color schemes and understated graphics compared to the regular epic 8’s.
If you look at Decathlon Ford IG it looks like they may have a new FS bike in the images. or not. 
Nukeproof are launching a new XC bike pretty soon I believe, under new ownership. Not sure if they’re well known in the US but were a hugely popular brand in UK/Ireland.
The Nukeproof will be rebadged Ridley, at least at first….you’ll be able to get one of those though 
Yes but I believe they had a prototype XC bike from their previous incarnation that will go into production. I saw a photo of it and it looks pretty nice. More options at my local bike shops is always good. Every new XC bike I’ve seen here in the last 2 years is a Specialized.
Wow that is light 8.68kg - nice!
What cassette is that? Love the colorway on it.
Thanks buddy! It’s a ztto 11-36. This wheel set and cassette is actually for my boys new build. I just slapped the wheels on to see how everything works while we wait for more parts to complete his bike. Hoping to be sub 6kg with his!
Is that a sprinter? What pockets are those on the doors? And what’s that black tank in the hitch area??
Yes, I believe they are van essential or vanncamp, and that’s our shower. 4.5g of hot water that’s pressurized with my bike pump.
Scott Spark seems like it would be due for a refresh.
If I could have the Evo Pro with either remote lockout or possibly flight attendant I would be happy.
I know the frame can but to install remote lockout would require changes to shock and fork I believe. Or get the regular epic and change fork.
I’d rather just have the option from factory.
I’d love to see a Chisel FS build with FA and a modest XO kit. Maybe splurge on a 240/Carbon wheel set with real 2.4 tires.
With all those upgrades why not just get the epic?
No dropper = doesn’t count 
Those Nextie rims are the real deal. I held nothing back on them (185lb last season) on rocky terrain…zero issues at all.
10+ cat-1 XC races last year and never needed one.
Yeah, the wheels look good. I have another set coming.
That’s pretty crazy. Guessing you don’t live in a steep area.
I’d rather have a dropper than a derailleur at this point.
@Majoeric I still love the silver hub/silver nipple combo on this wheelset!!!
@cassinonorth I am still debating if I need one or not, I would like one but seem to “manage” on the technical course and always wonder if I will be able to remember to use one after 20+ years of racing without one