Yes, Evo linkage will not fit this frame. I did some testing and the frame might be capable of slightly more than 100mm travel, but I do not think you will get 110mm like the evo. That being said, with the leverage ratio of 2:1 max, you will need a very long stroke to get over 100mm of travel. I also think that a 200mm shock will fit. FYI, my frame was advertised to have 122mm of travel, which is impossible with this linkage set-up.
Good luck to you building this up. My plan was 130 front and 120 rear, but since the frame isn't capable, I opted to return it. I was planning on reusing the suspension components I currently have, so to build a 100/100 capable XC bike (what this frame is designed for) would cost me a lot of unnecessary $$. If I had the XC suspension components already, or I was buying suspension specifically for this frame, I would have kept it.
Haha i'm completely with you on that. I also had some hardware for a 130 front and 120 rear
I'm actually in contact with the supplier, im trying to wrestle with him, telling him that the link is not the evo link and the rear triangle is a bit longer. But hes convinced that the rear is the same haha.
I wish I could get the true dimensions of the epic evo rear triangle so I could send the supplier the evo rear link, and the factory could revise the design.
Its still and insanely goodlooking frame with the short comings of being marketed as the evo.
Its interesting that you tested and got less travel than the normal epic, which is 100mm.
Could you share how you got that measurement? I have the non brain rear triangle so I can see if mine is any different.