Dr Superb,
I do not dislike the bike rather agree it is a great bike.
How I see it... This is not my first 29er experience but easily the best one I've ridden. I agree with other postings that 29ers have many strengths and are probably the best tool for most riders in our environment. After a 10 + year hiatus from mountain biking I picked up a SE 29er rigid single-speed to cruise around town with my kids. Did not take long before I was hooked again. Although cool, one gear was tough at times so I upgraded to a Redline D440 1x9 rigid 29er. Better, but I was trail riding more and thought the pain in my lower back, chest, shoulder and arms after most rides was due to my age. Convinced by some friends I picked-up a discounted Specialized FSR XC from a nearby shop (26 FS) and instantaneously the post-ride pain disappeared and I felt refreshed after my rides able to do multiple laps. Now a suspension convert and having a lot of fun jumping, bunnyhopping, etc the playful smaller wheels. I noticed the lack of momentum and increased washout in terms plus other 26" weaknesses so test rode a FS 29er and quickly determined it was too much bike for me (lost all the fun and didn't have the spunk of the hard-tail 29ers). Enter the Flash 29er. Again it is a great bike and I often take both to the trail and do a lap on each. Just seem to smile more on the FS 26. If I raced, was concerned about my time or rode the most efficient lines with a focus on speed and pedaling the Flash 29er would be the call. I like jumping, wheelies, picking the least efficient line, leaving the smoothed out trail to see a little action, etc. I get bored just pedaling and find the FS with the less awkward wheel size adapts to my liking better. No rush to sell as it doesn't hurt me by keeping it but figured I throw out a feeler to see if anyone with a quality FS 26 (preferably with a Lefty) was thinking the exact opposite of me.
Sorry you asked huh?