so, I've done a search and still my questions aren't answered. looking to update my stable this year with some xc racing equipment. I'm not a big fan of the typical 1-3" of travel most dedicated xc bikes have. I'm leaning towards the lighter end of the "free ride" category especially since they are getting lighter and lighter, and the travel is getting to be 4, 5, even 6". up for consideration are the cannondale rize 3 & 4, the specialized stumpy comp & expert, trek fuel ex 8, and maybe the Cdale rush 3, or if i can find a deal, the carbon 2. any thoughts from the peanut gallery?? most of these bike are floating in the 28lb range give or take, and all around 2,600. granted a wheel/tire upgrade, components, etc will shave weight too, but more importantly, does anyone own any of these bikes?? if so, how do they climb?? obviously with that much travel the downhill side is all . has anyone raced these bikes? how'd you do?? i have a 35lb Cdale jekyll that i train on when I'm not on the road bike, so strength isn't the issue so much. any input would be great, thx