Stumpjumper FSR more broadly positioned than ever for 2016
The Specialized Stumpjumper FSR is regarded as the trail bike par excellence and is therefore also Specialized's bestseller. To build on this success Specialised the latest version of the Stumpjumper FSR particularly wide. In addition to three wheel sizes (29"/27.5"/27.5"+), the Rhyme will also be available as a special women's version of the touring full-suspension bike in 27.5 and 27.5+ inches. The Specialized Rhyme comes in three frame sizes from size XS to M and has suspension elements specially designed for lightweight riders.
Specialized has completely revised its classic, the Stumpjumper FSR.
The most exciting novelty: the Stumpjumper FSR 6Fattie
The biggest change to the old Stumpjumper is the "6Fattie" model variant with three-inch wide Specialized Ground Control tyres, which sit on 30 millimetre wide rims (internal dimensions). At the front, the Stumpjumper 6Fattie has 150 millimetres of suspension travel in the form of a Fox 34 Plus, while 135 millimetres are available at the rear, as on the 29er version. In addition to a shock specially adapted to the larger tyre volume, the Stumpjumper 6Fattie has the wider Boost standard for hubs and cranks. The Specialized Stumpjumper FSR 6Fattie is also approved for 29-inch wheels thanks to the wheels being only seven millimetres smaller in radius.
Specialised consistently develops SWAT further
The main focus of the Stumpjumper models with a carbon main frame is the consistent further development of SWAT technology (Storage, Water, Air, Tools). In addition to the integration of the mini-tool in the top tube familiar from the Specialized Epic, the Stumpjumper has a quick-to-use SWAT flap under the bottle cage. Thanks to the 5.3 x 14.7 centimetre opening, the entire down tube can be used as a storage space with a low centre of gravity. A pump, spare tube, jacket or energy bar can be stored without rattling and well protected. Thanks to the special carbon layup, the new "Stumpi" should also offer outstanding riding stability and frame rigidity despite the hole in the down tube. In addition to laminated cable guides for simplified maintenance, the rear linkage has been optimised with a more solid rocker. All in all, these innovations bring many advantages for the rider, but make the frame around 200 grams heavier than its predecessor.
135 mm rear suspension travel on the 6Fattie, 150 mm on the 27.5-inch Stumpjumper
For maximum riding fun, all models that are single and double-compatible come with the shortest possible chainstays. The 29er and 6Fattie (27.5+) of the Stumpjumper FSR have 135 millimetres of rear travel with 437 millimetres of short chainstays, while the 27.5 version is available with super short 420 mm chainstays and 150 millimetres of travel. Specialized specifies a steering angle of 67.5 degrees for the 29-inch version and 66.5 degrees for the 27.5-inch model.
First ride impression on the new Specialized Stumpjumper FSR
Our first ride impressions of the 29er and 27.5er Stumpjumper FSR underline the versatility of the new Specialized model for 2016. The "Stumpi" is fast enough for extended tours with traction on the chain and irons downhill with great aplomb. Compared to the current models, there are two significant differences in the geometry, which are directly reflected in the riding experience. A slacker head angle and shorter chainstays emphasise the more modern geometry, even if the reach has become a little shorter. While the head angle on the 29er Stumpjumper has been slackened from 69 degrees and 68 degrees on the Evo to 67.5 degrees, the 27.5er Stumpi now has a head angle of 67 degrees. The optimisation gives both models more control, especially on steep and fast sections. This brings the new Stumpjumper closer to an enduro bike without losing any of its uphill qualities. With 13 millimetres shorter chainstays (437 millimetres) on the 29er and 15 millimetres less on the 27.5er (420 millimetres), the playfulness of both wheel sizes increases. Easier to pull onto the rear wheel, faster through tight turns. The new Stumpi puts a big grin on the face of active riders.
On the winding trails in Rotorua (New Zealand), the 29-inch version of the Specialized Stumpjumper FSR, which is very agile to ride despite its large wheels, was particularly impressive. Proof once again that Specialized has a very good knack for 29er geometries. Despite having 15 millimetres less travel at the rear, the 29er doesn't have to hide from the 27.5" model and irons over root carpets and steep steps with ease. Both models are very neutral on the climbs and feel very stiff.
Unfortunately, no test bike of the Stumpjumper "6Fattie" was available yet. We are eagerly awaiting the first test bikes and will post a first ride test here.
The Stumpjumper FSR 29 and the 27.5-inch version should be available from June this year, while customers will have to wait until September 2015 for the 6Fattie from Specialized.
Interview with Joe Buckley, Specialised Product Manager
BIKE: Despite the cancellation of the Evo version, there are three different wheel sizes (29/27.5/27.5+) of the new Stumpjumper. It looks like you're not sure which size is the best?
Joe Buckley: We want to offer every rider the right bike, and that only works with a certain amount of choice. For us, 6Fattie is the new Evo and is aimed at the rider who wants maximum riding fun. If one wheel size is going to disappear sooner or later, it will be 29 inches in the trail sector.
6Fattie/27.5+ is only seven millimetres smaller in radius than a 29er wheel. You can therefore ride both sizes on the 6Fattie Stumpjumper and have more flexibility. Doesn't that make the normal 29er superfluous?
Anyone who has ever ridden a 6Fattie won't want to ride the bike with normal 29er wheels anyway. My guess is that 90 per cent of customers won't switch to 29-inch wheels.
Compared to the current Stumpjumper, the new frame has gained around 200 grams due to the SWAT flap, the stiffer rear triangle and the optimised cable routing. Are the days of bikes getting lighter and lighter over?
Yes and no. In the past, bikes have become lighter and lighter. However, innovations are usually initially accompanied by a weight disadvantage. This applies to disc brakes, tyres and even SWAT. Compared to a rucksack, the system is still lighter. You can't just look at the weight. It's the overall package that counts.
The Rhyme, the women's version of the Stumpjumper, is now only available in 27.5 inches. Doesn't that clash with your philosophy that 29ers work for all riders regardless of body size?
The market has shown that the majority of smaller riders also prefer smaller wheel sizes. With the Rhyme, we are clearly orientating ourselves towards demand.
