Our Verdict in BIKE 2/2016 was: King of the descent! - Pure riding fun. And this motto also applies to the 650 Comp version with 27.5-inch wheels. The bike offers slightly more suspension travel than the 29er and is 350 grams lighter. As with its big brother, the product managers from Morgan Hill/California are aware that they cannot fit the highest quality equipment for € 2999. But they know what you need for difficult terrain. The Americans specify with riding fun in mind: 2x with 34/22 cranks, wide rims with super grippy tyres, telescopic seat post, good cockpit. While the German product manager would probably rather fit a new 11-speed drivetrain, the Stumpjumper uses an inexpensive Sram 10-speed combo to change gears - and it's noticeably worse. But that's the only criticism, because in terms of handling in difficult terrain, the bike is way ahead. Uphill, as expected, it's a little more difficult.
ConclusionVery powerful bike for fun-loving riders. The equipment level is low compared to the rest of the group.
The alternative: Bargain hunters watch out: There's a 20% discount on selected Specialized models until mid-April. Our tip: the lighter Stumpjumper FSR Comp Carbon 650B (list price 3999 euros).
