I spoke to one of the main independent dealers of NP bikes last week regarding this. I currently have the 2014 model, and it’s a great bike, if a bit heavy, and goes through bushings quite quickly, but in general, has been a good bike.
The main info I got was that the new model uses the same suspension layout as the new pulse, which apparently is a good thing – Sam Hill uses it, although I am not Sam Hill. I was disappointed to hear it’s not carbon, don’t get me wrong, carbon isn’t the be all and end all, but it tends to provide for a lighter bike. I think NP will struggle to get an all mountain bike that’s as hard wearing as the old mega’s, sub 30lb, without using a carbon frame. Although with carbon NP handlebars and wheels now available, would have thought these would be on there, so may help with the weight saving.
Apparently it’s being kept at a similar price, so would imagine £3200 ish, with a similar spec to this years. Although, with YT’s, Commencals and Canyons being similarly priced bikes, with incredible specs, and the equivalent specialized, treks now similarly competitive, I think the new Mega may not be as successful as the old one. Certainly I remember the 2014 mega being very popular at endure races. Think the Capra has fully taken over this mantle now though…….