Specialized 2013 S-Works Enduro
Specialized held its 2013 product launch in Snowbird, UT a couple of weeks ago. We posted some of the highlights from the launch at that time, specifically the new Enduro and Demo bikes.
Now it’s time to have a look at some of the other bikes of note that I saw while hanging out at altitude in Utah. Enjoy.
The 2013 S-Works Enduro is the creme de la creme of the Enduro line. Carbon frame, SRAM 1 x 11 drivetrain, Fox TALAS 34 fork, Cane Creek Double Barrel air rear shock and new Traverse carbon all-mountain wheelset are some of the highlights. Expect this bike to lay a serious beat-down on your pocketbook.
The Cane Creek Double Barrel air shock. I got to do a couple of laps on the DB air on a different bike, and it felt very smooth out of the box. From the description that Specialized gave during the product briefing, this shock can be a PITA to set up properly, but it’s gold once you do.
The SRAM XX1 11-speed drivetrain comes with a massive 42-tooth cassette. It’s only spec’d on the S-Works Enduro at this time, so don’t panic / celebrate yet.
A close-up of the XX1 chainring. Every second tooth is a different shape, which means you only get chainrings with even numbers of teeth. You can choose from 28, 30, 32, 34, 36 or 38T options.
This is one big sumbitch cassette. You get a 10-42T range, which should allow you most of the gears you need – especially if you’re pairing it with a 28T chainring.
The bottom bracket interface on the carbon S-Works frame is massive, for huge amounts of stiffness.
The Status is Specialized’s price-point DH / FR / park bike. This is the Status I, which has 200mm of rear travel and a 170mm X-Fusion Vengeance fork. The Status II comes spec’d with a RockShox Boxxer RC fork.
The Stumpjumpers look great for 2013. This is the FSR Comp EVO alloy 26″ model – colours have been aligned with the 29er models.
Clean lines and the Six Pack pivot design on the shock mount / seat stay / seat tube interface. This also gives you a good view of the new cable keeper seat post clamp.
Those of you who prefer the custom build option (I know that I do) can pick up any one of a number of Stumpjumper framesets like these ones and geek out on the spec to your heart’s content. Choose from carbon or aluminum options in matte / gloss black options, or black and white.
Looking for a race whip? This is the Epic Expert EVO, which weighs in at just a hair under 24 lbs. No more complaining about the bike slowing you down on the uphills…
And if you think that 24 lbs. is too heavy, or that suspension is for pussies, you can opt for the Stumpjumper HT EVO at 19 lbs. 10 oz. Maybe for the bike path, but I’m old enough to appreciate the benefits of suspension.
That’s a whole lotta carbon. Are you in a state of panic or celebration over XX1’s 42 tooth cassette?
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