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The bloody marketeers have started getting to me such that I'm considering a 29er FS XC racing. I currently have a Merida 96 team that's 21lb, fast but quite twitchy. I want to do more longer racing so the bike has to work for 6hr, 12hr and maybe 24hr later on.
I'll take a big hit on value and can't really justify a Specialized epic so am really taken with the Spearfish (pity it doesn't have 2 bottle cages). I think I should be able to build it to a tad under 25lb without going stupid (LB rims on AC hubs, XTR 1x10, Sids, MT Zoom etc).
Sooo does 29er wheels, geo and grip overcome approx 4lb of weight....
unless I weighed 40lbs myself I'd be happy with a 25lb FS 29er.
If it's for racing then I suspect you'll notice the extra weight. Worth seeing if you can bag a test ride on one, or something similar, as YMMV.
If it is for XC racing then worth considering a 29er HT. You may find the bigger wheels make up for the lack of rear suspension, and weight would be more comparable to your Merida. Try and ride some and see what you think.