To avoid having the same bike for the second time (BIKE 1/2017), Specialized sent us a replica version of the bike as ridden by the factory team. It's exciting to see how the pros transform the standard set-up. Instead of the normal air shock, the rear triangle features an Öhlins rear shock with steel spring. Compared to a conventional air shock, the Öhlins TTX 22 Coil weighs 300 to 350 grams more. Despite a nominal 21 millimetres less travel (shorter shock stroke than the standard air shock), the shock worked better in our test than the standard model. It responds much more sensitively and constantly releases the suspension travel right to the end. Only on hard landings do we wish for a little more travel. The suspension fork, on the other hand, is a completely different story. It may be that the Swedes from Öhlins build first-class motorbike suspension, but the RFX 36 Enduro fork can't hold a candle to either Fox or Rockshox. No matter which setup we tried (two air chambers and adjustable compression levels offer numerous options), the fork was either insensitive or sagged on fast hits. It's a shame, because the smooth geometry of the frame and clever details such as the SWAT storage compartment in the down tube for spare tools have a lot of potential. At least the Magura MT7 brakes decelerated much better than the usual Guide from Sram. The total weight of 14.2 kilos with pedals doesn't exactly make the S-Works a climbing specialist. Our tip: simply swap the fork.
Leo Putzenlechner, German Enduro Champion: 2017 I particularly liked the handling and the powerful brakes on the Specialized. Unfortunately, I didn't get on with the suspension. The cheaper models of the Enduro come with Rockshox suspension elements. I almost think that's the better choice.
You can read this article or the entire issue of BIKE 9/2017 in the BIKE app (iTunes and Google Play) or the issue in the DK shop reorder:
