Specialized product managers are excellent bikers and live the sport. You can feel this immediately when riding. The Stumpjumper with the Evo suffix doesn't outperform the competition in terms of spec, but it shows how consistently the "Evo" motto has been implemented by the PMs. Compact gearing with chain guide, more travel at the front (but still a lightweight fork), grippy tyres and the indispensable telescopic seat post guarantee riding fun. In terms of geometry, the Specialized 29ers are top: perfect control, playful enough and sufficiently smooth. The bike can be confidently pushed to the limit. On the suspension side, it can't keep up with Drössiger or Stevens, the suspension travel is too short for that. In terms of handling, however, the Stumpjumper was once again one of the test crew's favourites. Uphill, the Stumpjumpers without the Evo add-on are a little stronger because they are more sporty.
ConclusionThe Stumpjumper Evo is a lot of fun on technical singletrack trails and feels robust and safe. Here you are the pilot and not the passenger.
PLUS Relatively low weight, coherent concept with suitable gear ratio; fun geometry, five frame sizes
MINUS 160 mm rear brake disc for size M (180 mm from L)
The alternative
Specialized offers the practically identically equipped Stumpjumper Comp Evo for 2699 euros, but with 26-inch wheels. The suspension travel here is 150 millimetres.
