Specialized Epic 8 & Epic Evo 2024: Superbikes with Smart suspension for Cross Country & Trail

Specialized is kicking off the 2024 model year with a bang and presenting two new superlative fullys under the Epic name. The Specialized Epic S-Works 8 is not only currently the most expensive production bike in the XC world, but also the first with the new electronic Flight Attendant suspension from Rockshox. It has increased travel and reduced weight - an explosive mix for the race course. The timing couldn't be more perfect: In the Olympic year and just before the start of the legendary Cape Epic stage race, the Epic should be a hot contender for the podium. But that's not all. Specialized has conjured a second exciting bike out of the hat: its downcountry brother, the Epic Evo, is now poaching in the trail bike segment. Here, too, there is now more travel and an optimised carbon frame.

In this article, we reveal all the details of the new Epic family, provide information on models and prices and take a deep dive into the exciting development work at Specialized. Curtain up for the new Epic duo from Specialized!

Specialized Epic 2024: Everything new - innovate or die

Specialized established this slogan many years ago. True to the motto "Reinvent yourself or die", the Americans have made a name for themselves for innovative bikes since the early years of mountain biking. The Epic cross-country and marathon model in particular has always been regarded as a technology leader in the scene. For a long time, they relied on the "Brain System", which used an inertia valve to regulate the breakaway force of the suspension. This will end in 2024. Leaving out models with only minor changes to details, the Specialized Epic is now set for its eighth innovative leap.

It wouldn't be the year 2024 if Specialized didn't rely entirely on electronics for its most magnificent racehorse. The new Epic 8 is the first bike to be presented to the public with the Rockshox Flight Attendant XC suspension. In keeping with the times, the XC full-suspension bike has been given extra suspension travel and a geometry update. The revised Epic now has 120 millimetres of travel at the front and rear and is longer and slacker. In addition, the frame has been completely redesigned and there are a few more high-tech developments. In the sinfully expensive S-Works version, the Specialized Epic 8 is currently one of the most exciting cross-country bikes ever. Thanks to the full Rockshox ecosystem, the futuristic XC fully carries nine individual batteries: rear derailleur, shifter, dropper post, dropper remote, two air pressure gauges, power meter, shock and fork all need to be supplied with energy.

New Epic: New chassis & new geometry

Despite the 120-millimetre suspension, the new Specialized Epic is said to have lost none of its efficiency. The lower shock link has been repositioned to adapt the kinematics to the needs of modern XC racers. The developers want to have optimised the anti-squat values of the Epic and reduced the bobbing of the rear suspension under load by 20 percent compared to the Epic Evo of the previous model cycle. The new rear triangle is said to absorb 12 per cent more bumps and vibrations.

Not only the new Flight Attendant suspension on the Epic S-Works, but also the non-electronic Rockshox suspension on the more affordable models clearly demonstrate the close cooperation between the two US brands. Here, a compression damping system based on the three-stage 3P system of the Rockshox Sid suspension is used, which was fine-tuned by Specialized especially for the rear triangle of the Epic. The development department praises the middle setting in particular as a real all-rounder. The "Magic Middle" mode is said to be optimal for 80 per cent of racing situations. Compared to its predecessor, the new Epic also wants to score points with racers thanks to a tighter lockout.

The new geometry of the 2024 Specialized Epic is strongly reminiscent of bikes with even more suspension travel. Values such as a head angle of 65.9 degrees were previously more familiar from the trail bike sector. A flip chip in the shock mount allows the geo to be steepened by 0.5 degrees, which also raises the bottom bracket by five millimetres. With a height of 333 millimetres in size L, this is rather low even in the high setting, which should favour a good trail position. The sweeping reach of the new Epic frame (475 mm in size L) was also previously more trail bike territory. In addition, all frame sizes are supplied with a 760 millimetre wide handlebar and a 60 millimetre stem, which is short by XC standards. A seat angle of 75.5 degrees should ensure plenty of pressure on the pedals.

Specialized further optimises the Epic carbon frame

Although the frame of the Specialized Epic has become longer across all sizes, now comes with a SWAT storage compartment in the down tube, has a steering stop limiter and is protected by more protectors, the overhauled design of the S-Works saves around 76 grams compared to its predecessor (manufacturer's specification). However, Specialized uses the old Epic EVO with 120 millimetres of travel for this comparison. In relation to the minimalist 100-millimetre racing file, which is now being retiredthe Epic frame actually gains 241 grams and the S-Works complete bike a whopping 750 grams (BIKE measurement). The 2024 Epic frame will be available in two different carbon grades. Only the € 14,500 S-Works model comes with the optimised FACT 12M frame. According to our own BIKE measurements, it weighs 1682 grams in frame size L without shock.

Set up in the S-Works version, the laboratory scales of the Specialized Epic 8 stop at 10.4 kilos in size L and without pedals. The use of carbon saves 20 per cent weight on the shock extension alone. Together with titanium hardware, reduced cable routing and hand-laid carbon fibres of the very highest quality, this results in a weight saving of around 110 grams (manufacturer's specification, BIKE measurement size L: 190 grams) compared to the FACT 11M frames of the cheaper models.

The Epic frames made from FACT 11M carbon have conventional cable routing, with the cables disappearing behind the head tube in the frame. The S-Works Epic will also be available in a lightweight 12M version as a frame kit, but without the Rockshox Flight Attendant System. The Sram AXS ecosystem is required for its full range of functions anyway, so the new technology is reserved for the complete bike. The frame has size-specific stiffness, with the design of the tubes and junctions playing a greater role than additional material. As a result, the frame weights of different sizes should be close together. Contrary to current trends, Specialized has dispensed with size-dependent chainstay lengths, instead opting for 435 millimetres throughout. The developers have also decided against a flat mount for the rear brake.

Race bikes: The lightest MTBs & frame weights in comparison

In terms of frame weight, the expensive S-Works version ranks in the upper midfield compared to other current race bikes. It is astonishing that the FACT 11M carbon frame of the new Epic EVO trail bike can even keep up with the race bikes with its 1872 grams.

• Arc8 Evolve FS (size L): 1536 g
• Trek Supercaliber (size L): 1672 g
• Canyon Lux CFR (size L): 1675 g
• Specialised S-Works Epic 8 FACT 12M (size L): 1682 g
• Scott Spark RC World Cup (size L): 1780 g
• Pivot Mach 4 SL (size M): 1845 g
• Specialised Epic EVO 8 FACT 11M (size L): 1872 g
• Simplon Cirex 120 (size L): 1880 g
• MMR Kenta SXC (size L): 2125 g
• Canyon Lux Trail (size L): 2137 g
• BH Lynx Race LT (size L): 2351 g

Details of the Specialized Epic 8 2024

• Price5200 to 14.500 Euro >> available here
• Weight complete bike10.4 kg (BIKE measurement, S-Works Epic, size L, without pedals)
• Frame weight1682 g (BIKE measurement, S-Works Epic, size L, without shock)
• Front suspension travel: 120 mm
• Rear suspension travel: 120 mm
• Wheel size: 29"
• Field of applicationh: Cross Country / Marathon
• Frame materialCarbon
• ModelsS-Works / Pro / Expert / Comp
• Available sizes: S / M / L / XL
• Available as a framesetYes (6500 Euro)

Specialised Epic Evo 2024: More is more

The Epic Evo was originally designed as a downcountry model with 120 millimetres of travel. Now that the XC model Epic is taking its place in the new model year, the Evo brother is growing into a higher suspension travel class and now offers 130 millimetres at the front. At the rear, the 120 millimetre travel remains the same. Interestingly, the siblings, which at first glance appear dissimilar, share the same frame. The only reason for the differences in travel and geometry are the different lengths of the suspension elements. Speaking of which, the Epic Evo completely dispenses with the new Flight Attendant system from Rockshox and comes with a more downhill-oriented equipment package, such as more aggressive tyres.

Where the Specialized Epic already takes a progressive direction, the Epic Evo goes one step further. According to the US engineers, the geometry of the border crosser between trail and downcountry bike is "pretty extreme". In the flat flip-chip setting, the steering angle is 65.4 degrees flat. Due to the longer fork, the reach values of the Evo are slightly shorter than those of the Epic. The Epic Evo comes exclusively with a FACT 11M carbon frame. The parts list also clearly states that the Evo is a bike for demanding trails. Overall, the new Specialized Epic product family is likely to make a lot of friends thanks to its variable frame platform.

Details of the Specialized Epic Evo 8

• Price5200 to 9000 Euro
• Weight complete bike12.36 g (BIKE measurement, S-Works Epic, size L, without pedals)
• Frame weight1872 g (BIKE measurement, S-Works Epic, size L, without shock)
• Front suspension travel: 130 mm
• Rear suspension travel: 120 mm
• Wheel size: 29"
• Field of applicationTrail : Trail
• Frame materialCarbon
• ModelsPro / Comp
• Available sizes: S / M / L / XL
• Available as a framesetYes (4000 Euro)

On the trail: how the new Specialized Epic rides

It's hard to believe how versatile race bikes can be today. The new Specialized Epic is much more than an ascetic athlete. Thanks to the Rockshox Flight Attendant suspension, the XC full suspension bike is absolutely trend-setting. Meanwhile, the Specialized Epic Evo, which is not too heavy, also makes good speed on longer trail adventures and even in the bike park. - Jan Timmermann, BIKE test editor

>> Specialized S-WORKS Epic 8 on test: How the world's most expensive MTB rides

>> Specialized Epic EVO 8 PRO 2024: The new Epic Evo in the BIKE test - more race or trail bike?

Models & Prices Specialised Epic 2024

At an incredible € 14,500, the new S-Works Epic secures the dubious title of "most expensive production MTB in the world" ahead of the € 13,999 Scott Spark RC. The price madness is justified by the exclusive Rockshox Flight Attendant suspensionthe optimised FACT 12M carbon frame and the high-end equipment. There is a 5000 euro gap to the next cheapest model.

Specialised S-Works Epic (14,500 euros, frameset 6500 euros)

• Weight: 10.24 kilos (manufacturer's specification, size M)
• FACT 12M carbon frame
• Rockshox SID Ultimate suspension with Flight Attendant System
• Roval Control SL carbon cockpit unit
• Sram Level Ultimate Stealth four-piston brakes
• Sram XX SL Eagle AXS Transmission drivetrain
• Roval Control SL carbon wheelset
• Colour 1: Gloss Carbon / Astral Blue / Electric Green / Cyan Edge Fade / Metallic White Silver
• Colour 2: Gloss Carbon / Metallic Vivid Pink / Viavi Magenta Gold / Metallic Shadow

Specialised Epic Pro (9500 Euro)

• Weight: 10.87 kilos (manufacturer's specification, size M)
• FACT 11M carbon frame
• Rockshox SID Ultimate suspension
• Sram Level Silver Stealth four-piston brakes
• Sram XO Eagle AXS Transmission drivetrain
• Roval Control carbon wheelset
• Colour 1: Satin Carbon / Metallic Sapphire / Metallic White Silver

Specialised Epic Expert (7500 Euro)

• Weight: 11.1 kilos (manufacturer's specification, size M)
• FACT 11M carbon frame
• Rockshox SID Select+ suspension
• Sram Level Bronze Stealth four-piston brakes
• Sram GX Eagle AXS Transmission drivetrain
• Roval Control carbon wheelset
• Colour 1: Gloss Carb Black Pearl WHT
• Colour 2: Satin Redsky WHT

Specialised Epic Comp (5200 Euro)

• Weight: 11.7 kilos (manufacturer's specification, size M)
• FACT 11M carbon frame
• Rockshox SID Select suspension
• Sram Level Bronze Stealth four-piston brakes
• Sram GX Eagle drivetrain
• Specialised Alloy wheelset
• Colour 1: Gloss Dune White SMK
• Colour 2: Satin Metsohr WHT

Specialized has not yet published a photo of the Comp model for the launch.

Models & Prices Specialised Epic Evo 2024

Specialized Epic Evo Pro (9000 Euro, frameset 4000 Euro)

• Weight: 12.12 kilos (manufacturer's specification, size M)
• FACT 11M carbon frame
• Fox 34 / Float Evol Factory suspension
• Sram Code Silver Stealth four-piston brakes
• Sram X0 Eagle AXS Transmission drivetrain
• Roval Control carbon wheelset
• Colour 1: Satin Forest Green / Spruce / Metallic Spruce

Specialised Epic Evo Comp (5200 Euro)

• Weight: 12.61 kilos (manufacturer's specification, size M)
• FACT 11M carbon frame
• Fox 34 / Float Evol Performance suspension
• Sram Code Bronze Stealth four-piston brakes
• Sram GX / NX Eagle drivetrain
• Specialised Alloy wheelset
• Colour 1: Gloss PDRNDGO Midnight Shadow
• Colour 2: Satin BLUONYX Whyte

How the Specialized Epic 8 was created: development of a technology carrier

The constant development of cross-country sport has also left its mark on the development department at Specialized. The premise used to be: The stiffer a race bike, the faster. However, XC races are no longer won exclusively uphill. Energy saving and confidence on the descents are also crucial. The aim of the new Epic frame was to combine the safety-enhancing length and valued versatility of a trail bike with the fascinating efficiency of a race bike.

Many Specialized team riders have already appreciated this in the past. For example, marathon world champion Annika Langvad was not the only rider who preferred the Epic Evo to the Epic for the Cape Epic stage race. More reserves in the suspension and geometry led to less fatigue on long, unpredictable routes. The team also regularly opted for the Evo when the XC World Cup involved particularly demanding courses. The evolution of the "old" Epic was therefore only a matter of time.

You could say: for 2024, the old Epic Evo is the new Epic. Tour de France star and MTB racer Peter Sagan complained when he received the new Epic: "I want a race bike. Why did you send me the Evo?" However, Sagan is now also a big fan of the new development. When he rode it through a stone field for the first time, he is said to have shouted: "What the hell is this?" The logic behind the development direction seems clear: geo and suspension allow fewer vibrations to reach the driver and protect it from fatigue. The new Specialized Epic should be even more capable in XC and trail situations than the old Evo. As usual, the Americans confidently claim that the 2024 Epic is the most capable 120cc bike on the planet. The BIKE test shows whether this is really true.

The new Epic is more versatile than ever before. The new geometry allows me to corner and descend with incredible control and confidence. - Haley Batten, Specialised Factory Racing

Of course, Specialized did not simply re-label the old Evo frame, but put a lot of brainpower into the new development of the Epic race bike. A whole team of engineers with backgrounds in Formula One and race truck racing dedicated themselves to the task. Test riders were equipped with acceleration sensors to measure the forces acting on the frame and wheels in racing situations. Meanwhile, the eight-strong Ride Dynamics team took care of fine-tuning the kinematics. Efficiency was high on the wish list despite the increased suspension travel. The new Specialized Epic was also to be carry the Brain philosophy within them.

I could immediately feel the direct power transmission of the new Epic. Every watt is immediately converted into propulsion. - Christopher Blevins, Specialised Factory Racing

In order to find the optimum geometry, the developers and team riders experimented with modular adjustable frames. Even an extreme steering angle of 63 degrees was not left untried. With the geometry table of the new Epic, Specialized wants to have created a bike that is not only faster on paper, but "in the real world", than its predecessor. The Epic expands its area of expertise, particularly in downhill. The upgraded Epic Evo trail bike even goes one better. Specialized test rider Brian Gordon points out: "Many bikers might find the Evo too extreme. The Epic is the bike for 90 per cent of riders."

According to the company, there would also have been potential for tuning the weight, but not without having to make further compromises. "Lightness isn't everything" confessed the developers at the press launch of the new Specialized Epic in Chile. Instead, there was also a structural development. Continuous fibres on the shock mount, for example, provide more stability thanks to an uninterrupted structure. The front shock mount is now constructed using a bladder process and saves around two dozen grams compared to the previous frame.

Specialised brings SWAT Box to the XC-Fully

Specialized was one of the first MTB manufacturers to integrate a storage compartment into the down tube of its carbon frames. The "SWAT Box" luggage compartment is now making its debut on a lightweight race bike on the 2024 Epic. The development of a functional storage compartment without compromising on weight and stability is a major challenge for many brands. An apt comparison from the world of cars: convertibles are generally heavier than models with a full-length roof. Contrary to popular belief, an opening in the chassis does not reduce the overall weight. Instead, the reduced rigidity must be compensated for by significantly more material elsewhere.

For the SWAT box in the new Specialized Epic, the know-how from other models has been transferred to the race bike. In addition, the fastener mount has been further optimised to achieve a better fit. The storage compartment should now be completely waterproof and hold between 1.1 (frame size XS) and 1.7 (size XL) litres. The shape of the lock lever has also been adapted so that marathon racers can operate it easily even with cold fingers. Specialized left no stone unturned during development. This included rides in the rain with absorbent paper towels in the storage compartment and rubbing the door in the mud every 15 minutes. The compartment was also tested in the freezer and in 80-degree heat over a two-year test phase.