Dan it was bought to replace the Epic, which was a 2008 model. TBH I found the whole back end flexy on the Epic and the “brain” shock very hit and miss. The Canyon has a 4 bar set up, and is much plusher – I can feel, see and hear it working, whereas on the Epic you had to hit something pretty hard for the “Brain” to engage. I’ve built the Canyon to be about the same weight as the Epic at around 24lbs. Downsides so far of the Canyon – I have to reach down and flick the pro-pedal on and it’s only got 1 bottle cage mount due to shock position – both of which I can more than live with, given how well it goes up hill. With the pro-pedal on, it’s like riding a HT 😛
Would thoroughly recommend it – am even going to race it when the Gorricks start again, as I’m hoping it will be more durable and comfortable than the Epic