amcquay,
I purchased a 2011 Stumpy FSR Comp 29er this year and love it. It was a toss up for me between the Epic 29er Comp and the Stumpy 29er. If you want the Brain, go Epic. If you want the stumpy, just get the Comp. The Stumpy Elite is much more expensive just to get the Brain, but in my opinion (and several bike techs, forums, etc i’ve consulted)the Stumpy doesn’t need it. Ask yourself, will I race? If so and often, go Epic. If only once in a blue moon go Stumpy.
Do I regret my purchase, not at all. Some improvements have been made to the Stumpy over the last few years, and good ones. Every time I fly down the mountain I’m happy I’ve got that extra travel. Happy riding!
Mitch (thewhitespot)