What the heck is the Status? Details on this elusive alloy FSR bike have been scarce, with our first glimpses being limited to social media. Was it a new alloy iteration of the Stumpjumper EVO? But then the 2021 Stumpjumper EVO was announced, and it was clear the Status was something different. When additional detail […]
Riding the Specialized Enduro
When the latest iteration of the Specialized Enduro dropped, we were both impressed and intrigued. Having owned several iterations of the Enduro as well as several models of the Demo DH bikes, the latest generation looks to have finally fulfilled its promise: the do-it-all unicorn bike that can descend with the capabilities of a downhill […]
Shimano’s SMCD Modular Chain Device: a bash solution for 2-bolt ISCG-05 frames
The latest generation of Specialized bikes features two mounts with ISCG 05 spacing for chain retention devices. But with only 2 of the three mounting points as detailed in the standard, running a frame-mounted bash guard is not recommended. The Stumpjumper EVO includes a chain guide to assist with chain retention out of the box, […]
First Rides: the Specialized Stumpjumper EVO Alloy 27.5
Featuring 150mm of rear-wheel travel, alloy frame construction, and modern trail bike geometry, the Specialized Stumpjumper EVO was introduced as a more radical take on the well-known Stumperjumper trail bike. When I was looking to assemble a 27.5″ fun machine, the EVO and its progressive design, features, quality of construction, and reasonable price point stood […]
The Specialized 2F0 Flat Women’s Shoe: WHY
Specialized recently released a new shoe intended for use with platform pedals, the 2F0 Flat. They’ve also released a women’s version, in an indigo/ hyper green color way. I’m really at a loss of words when it comes to the color choices of this shoe. Apparently indigo and hyper green is in right now and someone […]
Ditching the Pack Part II: Specialize SWAT System and Zee Water Bottle Cage Review
We’re not alone in our quest to ditch the hydration pack in exchange for freedom to move on the bike. It turns out there is a sizable contingent of riders at Specialized that feel similarly, enough to develop a few solutions of their own. After chatting with Sean Estes, marketing man at the house of S […]
Specialized Unveils Enduro 29er
I must not have been paying attention, because when we ran into the Specialized Wrecking crew at the Demonstration Forest trails near Santa Cruz a few weeks ago and saw they were all astride 29″ versions of the Enduro, I didn’t think much of it. Bad, bad, bike blogger. I’m so totally fired, and going […]
All Mountain or Long Travel Trail, Part II: the lines are blurring
It is an awesome time to be a mountain biker. I wrote a piece just over a year ago that pondered the question, “do I want a long travel trail bike, or an all mountain bike?” A year later, the lines have blurred even further. For a casual rider, it could mean even more confusion […]