We were eagerly awaiting the only representative of the 29-inch faction. How does Specialized's new, large enduro bike compare to the smaller-tired competition? Even on the first few metres of blocker trails, it becomes clear that you can count on very good rollover behaviour. No getting stuck, no loss of speed, just confidently over it. Also amazing: the bike has almost frighteningly playful, agile handling for a 29er. Sensational. The 29er enduro bike performs just as confidently uphill, even with a little pump in the rear end. A quickly switchable platform on the Cane Creek shock is missing. When the going gets really tough downhill, the Specialized reaches its limits sooner than some of its competitors. The shorter suspension travel, relatively thin tyres and the steeper head angle of 68.2 degrees compared to the factory specification explain why. We would also have liked more progression at the rear (despite the large spacer in the air chamber) and a wider handlebar.
Conclusionvery strong uphill and very playful despite 29". There are better bikes for extreme terrain.
TuningTitanium bolt kit on the brakes, tyres with latex milk, Avid XX World Cup levers with X0 Trail brake caliper, ceramic bottom bracket, chain guide.
