I have Race X2s and they’re just like the ST mag review said – all the brake that any UK trail rider is ever likely to need.
They have all the power I need: once a wheel is locked, it’s locked, you don’t need more!
My buddies’ Shimanos feel a tad sharper, I prefer the modulation of the Hopes, and the simplicity and spares situation.
All the Shimano owners are happy too, and they’re cheaper. That thing they do where the pads start way away from the rotor for maximum mud clearance (I can’t remember what it’s called) sounds like a great idea tho I haven’t used it in anger.
There’s no bad decision here.