Up to now, the Specialized Chisel has only rolled over the trails as a smart hardtail and once even won a test victory among the entry-level hardtails in BIKE. The special feature of the filigree aluminium frame lies in the welding process of the chassis. Specialized uses D'Aluisio Smartweld technology, which uses hydroformed tube connections. This trick allows the weld seams of the perfectly matching tubes to move to less stressed areas, which has a positive effect on the weight and strength.
The Californians have recently applied the same process to their latest product, the Specialized Chisel FS. In addition, the Chisel has a hydroformed, one-piece seat tube in which both the bottom bracket shell and bearing seats are already integrated. This effort gives the frame a weight of 2559 grams, which Specialized claims is the absolute benchmark in this segment. Just like the hardtail, the new fully is also aimed at price-conscious riders who are happy to do without carbon but are less willing to sacrifice function.
The Specialied Chisel-Fully inherits the race genes from the Epic
With the Chisel FS, Specialized primarily had racers in mind, which is reflected in the strong reference to the World Cup flagship Epic 8 explains. The Chisel FS has not only copied the geometry from its expensive carbon brother, but also the kinematics of the rear triangle. A look at our test database reveals that the Chisel FS is actually identical in most respects. The biggest difference is the 1.2 degree slacker seat tube angle, the 15 millimetre longer head tube and the slightly shorter reach. With these minimal differences, Specialized gives the Chisel FS a little more comfort than the uncompromising Epic 8 and softens the stretched riding position.
The practical test of the Specialised Chisel FS
On the trail, the Chisel FS still has a slightly sporty riding position, which gives it good length and ensures sufficient pressure on the front wheel even on steep climbs. The rear suspension pumps when pedalling out of the saddle, but can be calmed down using the platform lever. A remote option is not yet available in this price range. Thanks to the 760 mm handlebar, you stay in control even on demanding trails and benefit from the smooth 66.4 steering angle. The Chisel FS is therefore not only perfect for the race track, but also for trail use. With a price tag of 2600 euros and the elaborately crafted aluminium frame, there is little room for manoeuvre when it comes to the equipment. The suspension does what it should and generates comfort, but offers comparatively little damping control. You also have to accept compromises when it comes to the brakes. The Sram Level T brakes are weak and quickly cause fat forearms on long descents. The Specialized tyres, on the other hand, are positive: they roll well, provide comfort thanks to the large volume and offer decent grip. Wheels and cranks with a favourable Powerspline bottom bracket offer little reason to cheer. There is definitely still potential here. The next Chisel with Shimano SLX equipment costs 700 euros more.
Equipment Specialised Marathon-Fully Chisel
- Fork: Rockshox Silver RL
- Shock: X-Fusion 02 Pro RL
- Gear system: Sram SX/NX, 1x12
- Ratio / bandwidth: 32; 11 - 50 / 454 %
- Brakes: Sram Level T 180/160 mm
- Telescopic support/stroke: AL Lightweight / 150 mm
- Wheels: Specialized tyres Specialized Ground Control/Fast Trak T5 29 x 2.35
Measured values
- Total weight: 14.15 kg (without pedals)
- Weight frame / wheels: 2559 g / 4589 g
- Acceleration wheels: 3111 kg x cm²
RATING: The BIKE judgement is made up of the subjective impressions of the test riders and our laboratory measurements. The judgement is independent of price. Range of grades: very good (0.5-1.5), good (1.6-2.5), satisfactory (2.6-3.5), sufficient (3.6-4.5), poor (4.6-5.5).
Conclusion Stefan Frey, BIKE test editor
The Chisel FS offers an affordable entry into Specialized's fully world. While the beautifully crafted aluminium frame is impressive, you have to live with some compromises when it comes to the equipment.
