Submitted by
Oldy Moldy
a Weekend Warrior
from Penticton, BC. Canada Date Reviewed: September 5, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Three Blind Mice
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2450.00
Purchased At:
Simon's bike shop
Strengths:
Mostly everything so far. The dual crown fork inspires confidence.
Weaknesses:
None after seven months of use.
Similar Products Used:
Trek Fuel 90, Trek Liquid 55.
Bike Setup:
Once the suspension is set than it's perfect. Takes a bit to set up but it's worth it.
Bottom Line:
Love this bike, I'm so impressed at how good it climbs for a six inch bike although the travel adjust sure helps. Solid front end with the integrated stem and the Juicy 3's do a fine job as stoppers. This bike is a do-it all bike so if your like most and can only have one this is the bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
DYUSIP
a Weekend Warrior
from Surrey, Canada Date Reviewed: August 31, 2009
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3300.00
Strengths:
ergonomic design, lightweight for an all mountain bike type.
Weaknesses:
The e150 fork has been leaking oil, and looses air pressure. Got fixed by the LBS after over a month. Now the never ending squeaking from the stem that clamps the stanchions is becoming louder and more irritating. They've been torqued to specifications but won't stop squeaking.
Bottom Line:
With all the problems encountered, the stress, loss of ride time, I'd better think twice buying one.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
verme_vsf
a Cross Country Rider
from Petrópolis, Brazil Date Reviewed: June 19, 2009
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2200.00
Strengths:
Great bike!!!
Weaknesses:
Travel adjustment of e150 fails. Maintenance is expensive and no maitenance manuals are available like fox, rockshox and magura forks.
Bottom Line:
Great bike but fork and shock are weak. I have replaced my fork by a Magura Thor and will replace my rear shock by a fox rp23.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kazuza
a Weekend Warrior
from Lisbon Date Reviewed: April 10, 2009
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Strengths:
Frame e150 suspension
Weaknesses:
S-Works tires
Bike Setup:
Stock, but with Eskar Control 2bliss at rear
Bottom Line:
Great DO IT ALL bike
Like they say: climb well.. descend better :P
difficult to step up the suspension right initially, but once done this bike will give you confidence to do things you never tough.. In fact, it can give you overconfidence and can make you brake a rib :D
I would suggest only to replace the rear tire, for a non S-Works Eskar (these tires are great), but the S-Works model has a thin lateral wall and that's bad in rockgardens
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chopstick
a Weekend Warrior
from Portugal Date Reviewed: April 7, 2009
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2400.00
Strengths:
Stong, reliable, low maintenance, versatile. Very good fork and shock absorber.
Weaknesses:
Altough it requires low maintenance, when it does it won't come cheap. Kinda expensive for the parts it brings, like the crankset, the rear hub and the brakes.
Similar Products Used:
Trek fuel EX8, Specialized Pitch comp, gary fisher hi-fi.
Bike Setup:
Stock.
Bottom Line:
It's the ultimate do everything machine, climbs very well, has a good riding position for long distances, yet, when the fun part of going along with the gravity comes it just blows your mind. Feels relaxed, planted to the grond and deals with all types of irregularities. The fork feels very plush and the shock absorver never bottoms out.
At first it may be hard to adjust and sync both the fork and the shock but once you get it right youre sitting on a couch with wheels and pedals.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Beerhunter
a Cross Country Rider
from Blue Mountains Australia Date Reviewed: January 28, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Ourimbah, The Chicken Run, St Helena's Ridge.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Strengths:
Balance, technical climbing, DESCENTS.
Weaknesses:
None so far.
Similar Products Used:
Coming off NRS. Extensively tried and tested bikes including Ellesworth Epiphany, Trance, 5 Spot, BMC Trailfox, Norco Fluid1, Yeti 575.
Bike Setup:
Stock.
Bottom Line:
When I first started MTB, rigid bikes were all you could get. Now they are a fashion item...I'm an old fart who has, over 20 years, moved from XC riding, to a little XC racing, and now much more to "trail" riding. I am now less interested in the day long fire trail rides than the fun, 2 hour, technical ride on the local single tracks. Over the years I had found that I was avoiding more and more the really difficult trails in my area, as I had been over the handlebars on almost all of them. I thought, as I am not a good enough rider to deal with the hard sections, why not just get a better bike?
Of all the bikes I tested over the 6 months of looking the two I liked most were the Yeti and the Enduro. Both have a slacker head angle than the others, which allows me to adopt a "head up, no worries" attitude on almost anything. I just could not beleve how confidence inspiring these two bikes were on technical descents and over drops. It takes more body english to turn the bike in tight singletrack than the XC bike, but it is just a matter of adjustment. I have never hit the fork on the frame, and cant see that I ever will, so dont see that it is a limitation. The Enduro does not jump out of a corner, or climb a fire road like an XC bike, but I dont care at all. The back tyre stays glued to the ground on steep and tecnical climbs, so I am able to make sections that had always been beyond me. If there is a steep descent, compression and then climb I do the first part of the climb much easier as my speed at the bottom is so much higher. Its just a hoot to ride...
I bought the Enduro as a demo bike from a bike shop owner who is the same height and weight (and age) as me, so I did not have all of the setup headaches that others have mentioned. To date I have had no issues at all with the forks, which in my opinion is the bikes great strength, and is the one point that really sets it apart from the other bikes I rode.
I now dont go for "training" rides at all. I just ride, anywhere that I feel like on that day. It was a heap of money to spend on a toy, but totally worth it :)
I gave it 4 chilis for value, as cheap it is not, but 5 overall, as in my view it is in the top 20% of bikes for the riding that I was aiming to do.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
hitek79
a Weekend Warrior
from Littleton, CO Date Reviewed: January 27, 2009
Favorite Trail:
Scary ones
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2100.00
Purchased At:
Used on Craigslist
Strengths:
The suspension
Weaknesses:
The suspension. Don't worry, I'll explain :)
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
Bike is stock, but with Maxxis ADvantage/High Roller tires
Bottom Line:
I found this bike practically brand new for a great price and I snatched it up. Up until that point though I had only ridden XC bikes with basic 100mm suspension set ups. I got the bike home, set up the shock according to Spec's recommendations and took it out for some lift served rides. I went over the bars twice, once with the bike landing on my head. Talk about a confidence killer.
I started reading more about the bike and playing around with the suspension in a bunch of different variations and dumped the crappy Resolution tires that came on the bike and that has made a world of difference. If you don't want to take the time to really learn and adjust the suspension, you probably won't like how this bike rides. The other thing that I had to learn coming from a XC background is that this bike is expecting you to ride it hard and fast. If you try descending like you would on a XC bike, you'll crash. If you just pick your line and pedal, you'll cruise right through obstacles like they aren't even there.
Now that I'm not scared of this bike anymore, I can't wait for spring and summer. This bike climbs really well, and I look forward to taking it out on some longer trips. The ascents might not be as quick as my XC bike, but the downhills sure will be fun!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jason
a Weekend Warrior
from Auckland New Zealand Date Reviewed: December 21, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Woodhill MTB Park
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Avanti Plus Waitaker
Strengths:
Unbreakable, totally reliable, comfortable, a pleasure to ride
Weaknesses:
2007 fork and rear shock were faulty, Specialized replaced both with 2008 models while under warranty, now it's perfect!
Similar Products Used:
2006 Rockhopper, 2008 Stumpjumper
Bike Setup:
Stock standard factory setup
Bottom Line:
I climb huge hills, race it in 12hour events, XC ride and fly downhills, this is a fantastic bike. If you want a bike that does everything extremely well, is supremely comfortable to ride, rush out and buy an Enduro. I test rode a Stumpjumper recently, another great bike and a lot more nimble but I reckon the Enduro is superior.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mynameisnotreadable
a Downhiller
from boise, ID Date Reviewed: December 11, 2008
Favorite Trail:
all blue and single diamond from tamarack mountain ( double diamond is a bit above me )
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$1500.00
Purchased At:
jenny louis
Strengths:
everything, EVERYTHING, and umm... everything!
Weaknesses:
nothing, nothing at all ( this is no an opinion, the only possible problem is 07 shocks, ive heard enough to convince me they suck, but i got the 08)
Similar Products Used:
fuji nevada 3.0
rockhopper
my friends xc fsr bike
Bike Setup:
stock, a tag frx5 rear wheel, and i throw on my old fast trak tires when i commute/road ride
Bottom Line:
get it.
no questions.
get it.
first of all, the suspension is wholly amazing, its responsive, durable, and when specialized says total suspension integration, they arent kidding. you truly dont feel the shocks...or the rocks for that matter. its like a metal sponge that soaks up your bumps. you might want to get a stronger wheelset ( or wheel cuz i dont freeride every day). i recommend the tag frx5. its like 3 pounds heavier, but you will never need another wheel in your life.
its description says it all.
lets you speed down the mountain, and then lets you ride back up so you can do it all over again.
(try to get it on ebay or something regularly 3200 is a tad pricey)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
asulli
a Downhiller
from Truckee Ca Date Reviewed: November 12, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Everything in SC
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$2400.00
Purchased At:
Trail Head
Strengths:
Its a 32 pound 6 inch travel climbing machine that descends like 40 pound bike that can't climb. The front fork is amazing and has all the kinks worked out by now.
Weaknesses:
The price has gone up and the rear shock is just ok.
Bottom Line:
If you want an Epic and and SX Trail just buy this bike. It is a true all mountain bike that is going to kill anything you climb. Just don't abuse it buy freeriding every weekend droping it to flat and it will treat you good. If you want to pound a bike to death buy a Free or a Demo. If you want to climb all day and go fast back down hill buy this bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ron hans erez
a Cross Country Rider
from soham Date Reviewed: September 30, 2008
Favorite Trail:
ben shemen
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
mazman
Strengths:
nice strong easy to ride felling good
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
etsx 50
Bike Setup:
change all to xt
Bottom Line:
THIS IS MY SECOUND REVIEWER ON THAT BIKE STILL FILL IT IS THE BEST BIKE IN THE MARKET ,PLEASE LOOK AT MY FIRST REVIEWER AFTER 3 MOUNTHS , MY BIKE IS 2008 MODEL BOUGHT ON OCTOBER 2007 , IF YOU NEED A STRONG BIKE FOR EVERY THING BUY THIS BIKE
YOU FILL YOU ARE RIDING MOTOR BIKE BUT WITH OUT THE MOTOR ,
ONE YEAR RIDING ALMOST EVERY DAY IT IS ENOUGH TIME TO WRITE ABOUT A BIKE SO YOU CAN BE SURE WHAT YOU ARE WRITING IS O.K.
The 2009 version is less then 2008, or 2007 be carefull since on 2009 specialize took out their owne fork and put fox fork and by that destroy the all bike
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
bimbo
a Downhiller
from Canada Date Reviewed: September 14, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Everything
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Everything
Weaknesses:
The headtube is to steep (but I'm a downhiller so I'm just not used to the steep head angle).
Similar Products Used:
Nothing
Bike Setup:
Completly stock
Bottom Line:
The bike is unreal I like it better than my SX Trail Demo 7-8 and 9. This bike only dissapoints me in the free ride demartment, but is amazing in every other department. This bikes does nto dissapoint, buy it.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Skid Roe
a Weekend Warrior
from Kent, Wa. U.S.A. Date Reviewed: September 2, 2008
Favorite Trail:
fs73 greenwater
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2900.00
Purchased At:
Center Cycle
Strengths:
This is a fantastic, do everything bike. I'm 6'1" tall and 285lbs. This bike has the strength of a Free ride bike with All Mountain blood pumping through its veins!...Unlike those free riders, I pedal back up the trail...It takes my abuse.
Weaknesses:
If you put a X9 derailleur on it...Why put a X7 shifter? Come on Specialized! its already a $3,000.00 bike,...Why skimp a couple bucks in that area?... I'll be spending even more $ now to upgrade ....
Similar Products Used:
K2 4.5 Attack
Bike Setup:
Stock Specialized Enduro Comp SL (Large)....With a lot of extra air in the shocks!
Bottom Line:
I test road every other bike in the Specialized line up. As well as the Trek, Giant, Gary Fisher,and Kona lines prior to riding the Enduro Comp SL....I had inadvertently skipped over it between the P series and the SX & Demo series...The Enduro feels like a B.M.X. bike on steroids that ate a bunch of downhill bikes trying to carb load before a big race! Do as I did, do your home work, but ride this bike first,....You will find it hard to compare...If you are a heavier rider looking for an All Mt. bike that wont break. Or looking for a MT. bike you can free ride and catch a little air...This bike is for you.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
KentMcF
a Weekend Warrior
from Florida Date Reviewed: July 17, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Alafia
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Go anywhere, do anything bike.
Weaknesses:
A little tight in the cockpit.
Bottom Line:
Secialized has done well with the 2008 suspension. It's very advanced and with the proper coaching you can do anything you want with this bike. Darn good looking too.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ozzybmx
a Weekend Warrior
from Adelaide , Australia Date Reviewed: June 30, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
complete cycle
Strengths:
All in 1 bike capable of everything.
Weaknesses:
no problems whatsoever.
The cable routing below the BB could have been better thought out.
Similar Products Used:
tried craftworks and Trek
Bike Setup:
2008 enduro stock + tubeless.
Bottom Line:
AWESOME BIKE ! uphills , downhills , xc ..... Buy this bike if you want to do a bit of everything. Im just back into mtb since giving it up in 1998 , i didnt realise there was no such thing as "just buying a mtb" anymore , downhill, freeride, all mountain, XC, 4X ...the list goes on . If you want a sensational all rounder , this bike is for you . If i move towards a certain dicipline i might go more specific eg XC-epic marathon... But i dont think that will happen, just buy one and enjoy !
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
mtbskiles
a Racer
from highlands ranch,Co,united states Date Reviewed: June 29, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
good ride, fun, light for type of bike
Weaknesses:
vary skimpy wheels and derealer
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
first off this bike is a vary good bike for the money paid and it is vary fun to ride. unfortenley there are a cupale week spots on the bike and those are the wheels get out of true real fast and the rear derealer broke off twice on me. the first time the derealer broke off on me the screw that holds it to the hanger shered off and the second time the hanger its self broke.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
endo-boy
a Weekend Warrior
from Longmont CO Date Reviewed: June 9, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Hall Ranch
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2600.00
Purchased At:
BV - Boulder
Strengths:
Great ride, aggressive handling, adjustablility for terrain, fantastic design.
Weaknesses:
none so far, cost perhaps
Similar Products Used:
04 Enduro Expert (rode it for 4 years), Jamis Dakar (rode it for 2.5 years)
Bike Setup:
pretty much stock, going to remove the big ring and run it with just two rings and a guard.
Bottom Line:
Me - 6'1" 200 lbs.
My bike - 2008 Enduro SL Comp - large
I rode my 04 enduro long and hard for 3.5 years. I Did 80 mile epics in the rocky mountains (Leadville to Breck via CDT), Exterra races, took it on business trips to Hawaii, Florida, Utah, etc. I was very accustomed to that bike and thought the world of that FSR suspension system. Well, I was completely blown away with this latest version. I cannot believe how amazing this bike is to ride. Caution, if you dont do your homework and set this bike up properly, you will be dissapointed. You need to set sag, you need to adjust rebound and compression for the terrain you are riding. That is the whole point behind this system. Variable settings to optimize riding on variable terrain. If you want a set and forget, get back on your hardtail.
When I first test rode it, it ran like crap and made the shop guys properly set the shock and fork and then I started playing with R&C. Once I understood the system, it flowed. My first singletrack was Hall Ranch (google / youtube Hall Ranch). I set the R&C firm and fast and had no problem getting up the rock garden and playing on some of the natural features. I was able to easily climb over the 'big step' and some of the nasty ramps. On the way down, softened up the compression and had a blast launching off some drops. I am still working on understanding the nuances of this suspension system, but loving every minute of it.
4 for value - my wife is still yelling at me for buying it.
5 for overall - because it was worth it :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Pete
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, ON, Canada Date Reviewed: May 4, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2100.00
Purchased At:
PArk Ave Bikes
Strengths:
Weight for a 6" travel bike, rigid fork, geometry, supple ride
Weaknesses:
Long wheelbase is a b!tch in the tight singletrack
I've found this to be an exceptional bike for my cross country style riding. I don't get tired and it climbs well for a bike with that much travel. This bike kind of makes the stumpjumper FSR redundant (I know, I own one). The Rocky SXC 70 is a tad better than this bike, the shorter wheelbase makes it a little more nimble but just as stable. Overall this is an excellent design and well executed. SO far no issues with the suspension front or rear.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
nate
a Weekend Warrior
from Colorado Springs, CO Date Reviewed: April 16, 2008
Favorite Trail:
ute valley
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
bv
Strengths:
update to several previous reviews... stability through the gnarliest terrain, climbs very well for a 6" bike, just plain rippin' fun going downhill!
Weaknesses:
the well-documented reliability issues have been very irritating. i just got an upgrade to the '08 fork and shock, so hopefully this stuff lasts a bit longer...
Similar Products Used:
fisher cake 2 dlx, etc.
Bike Setup:
stock except for Eskar 2.3/ the captain 2.0 (ghetto tubeless), and my bike is an '07 with '08 suspension.
Bottom Line:
i never really had a serious complaint with the damping of the '07 stuff, but i could tell the low-speed compression was initially very firm to serve as a pedaling platform. it was a small bother on fast, choppy terrain, but it was good in technical stuff because the bike wouldn't pitch either forward or back, making it pretty stable. in just one ride on the '08 stuff, i found that the damping is noticeably more supple and sensitive to small bumps, so the ride feels plusher than anything i've ever ridden. through rocky sections, it's slightly less stable than before, but i actually like the compromise, because it feels so good in the fast stuff.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Orlando
a
from Brussels, Belgium Date Reviewed: April 13, 2008
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Real nice do it all bike, very balanced ...small footnoter: The stock tires Eskar S-works are the BEST tires I've ever riden, good in wet and dry, AWESOME!!!
Weaknesses:
Tire clearance up front (not a major issue). Small bumps compliance is not the best
Similar Products Used:
Read my previous review
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
This is a followup from my previous post. After replacing the rear shock TWICE, servicing the fork and readjusting the presure on the the dampening leg (set to 53 PSI) the bike is finally behaving as it should! It's awesome!!!!!! It's a pleasure to ride in rock gardens, front end is super stiff. Pedals uphill like a xc'er and bombs dowhills like a DH rig (although not as plush). I wouldn't say it's heavy for what it's capable of, actually, I'd say it's pretty light at 14kg for the rigidity you get and the travel it delivers. The rear shock is not as plush as a Fox on "smooth" terrain, but then when you hit a rock garden or go down some stairs at speed it feels super smooth (guess due to the spike valve). Cornering with the bike is superb! when pumping through berms the shocks wont fully compress allowing you to get out with speed! I wouldn't know if I would recommend it because of all the time it spent in the shop getting fixed, nonetheless when fixed it's a pretty cool ride :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric Landis
a Cross Country Rider
from Grand Junciton, CO, US Date Reviewed: April 10, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Holy Cross
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2800.00
Purchased At:
Ruby Canyon Cycles
Strengths:
Value for the price, Balance, adjustability, Ergonomic comfort. I love how I always feel in the right spot on the bike. Going up steep hills I use the fork drop feature and the front end stays down while being able to apply traction to the rear. On descents it has weight nicely placed to the back to inspire confidence.
Weaknesses:
There has been concerns about the 2007 suspension which I never experienced. Few weaknesses. I really like it. It's a little heavy, Wish I could afford the carbon model.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher sugar, stumpjumper
Bike Setup:
I installed the shorter stem option. Other than that it is stock. I had some trouble manualling any time I needed and moving the bars back has really made it nice.
Bottom Line:
With the 2007 suspension versions to get a supple feel with small bumps I had to lower the air spring pressure to a point that it would bottom out easily. After setting up the 2008 it is very supple and resists bottoming very well also. The compression and rebound adjustments are easy to feel and you can set this bike up to do anything you want.
I watched the 2007 setup video online when I first got it and then watched the 2008 video when I got the new suspension. The 2008 instruction is far better and I am really happy with most of the suggested setups.
Going uphill I like a supple feel to plow through the bumps and keep peddling. I set the easy to use compression adjusters on the front and the rear to the softest position and drop the forks down the 2" for balance and steering. Once I get to the top and head back down I will add a little compression damping to both ends to help keep a firm feel and avoid bottoming out. If I set the compression all the way stiff it is too stiff, which I like because I know the adjustment will take me to both extremes too soft and too stiff. I end up around the middle and it is perfect. Very fun Bike to ride. I can hang with the best going uphill and downhill with 1 ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
hans
a Downhiller
from flagstaff, AZ, USA Date Reviewed: April 7, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
Absolute Bikes
Strengths:
Everything. It is a GREAT bike. Great bike for flying down the mountain, but its also not bad for climbing up the mountain either. The suspension is very versatile. You can practically lock out the front and rear shock or adjust it to give you all 6 inches of travel. Great all around bike!
Weaknesses:
Only been on it a couple months, but i haven't found any yet.
Similar Products Used:
Giant NRS2 old Specialized FSR
Bike Setup:
2007 sl comp. It's all stock except for the rear brake rotor which I had to replace after a crash in Moab =P.
Bottom Line:
Great bike. It can climb the hills but descends them even better. Let shock do all the work and hang on for the ride!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Matt Clash
a Weekend Warrior
from NZ Date Reviewed: February 27, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Whakarewarewa forest
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
On-Yer-Bike Wellington
Strengths:
Great frame and good quality components. Bike handles beautifully during all types of riding.
Weaknesses:
Front forks needed cartridges replacing to 08 model.
Similar Products Used:
Kona Coiler Delux, Jamis Dakar XLT
Bike Setup:
As stock but with Odi Lock on grips.
Bottom Line:
This bike allows me to do all the styles of riding I enjoy and all on one bike! I can ride an all day epics, enter xc races and hit dh tracks with confidence. As I do not want to do big jumps or drops - the bike is more than strong enough for my purposes. I have been disappointed with the fork problems but my Specialized dealer has been fantastic at getting these issues sorted quickly and all under warranty.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nate
a Weekend Warrior
from Colorado Springs, CO Date Reviewed: February 9, 2008
Favorite Trail:
ute valley park
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
BV
Strengths:
this is an update to two earlier reviews... when the bike works, it works really well...
Weaknesses:
...but it has reliability issues. My BB that i thought was worn out was just a little loose, and actually the clunking sound i was hearing was the rebound damping shim stack or whatever bouncing around inside the shock- it had come completely apart, and i had no rebound damping. Specialized replaced the entire shock fairly quickly, and the new one had the tightest bushings/seals i've ever experienced. With the rebound set even one click from full-fast it wouldn't even rebound. However, a couple rides was all it took to break it in, and everything's working great now. If only the trails would dry out...
Similar Products Used:
fisher cake 2 dlx
Bike Setup:
just went ghetto tubeless w/ a 2.3" Eskar front, 2.0" The Captain rear (really nice combo). Otherwise stock.
Bottom Line:
Like i said, when everything is working right, it's a GREAT ride. Maybe i've been unlucky, and i wouldn't tell anyone not to get one, but the reliability issues are a bit annoying. My lbs has been awesome in dealing with the problems, and Specialized knows all about the teething problems with their in-house shock and fork, so hopefully they will perfect the stuff soon.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Carl
a Weekend Warrior
from Perth Date Reviewed: February 9, 2008
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Weaknesses:
Front Fork E150 Leaking Air Canister.
Bottom Line:
Great bike fantastic ride and confidence inspiring. I am doing things and riding at speeds that I would not have had the confidence to do on my hardtail. Climbs as well as if not better than my hardtail. Sweeps down hills like a breeze. Very stable and comfortable to ride. Had the problem with the front fork too but is now fixed under warranty and is better than ever. For me this is my ulimate bike that will be used for day rides and also off road touring in conjunction with a BOB Ibex trailer. This bike brings out confidence and delivers what it promises.I ride on a lot of gravel/stone surface which can be very slippery and the deep gravel can be unnerving for me. This bike gives me more confidence due to its stability and control and I am riding faster, smoother and safer than on my old hardtail. Insted of picking my way over gravelly ruts i now just ride over them. :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Weekend Warrior
from Ottawa Date Reviewed: January 20, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Don' t Tell Jude/Endo - Squamish
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$2000.00
Purchased At:
Killington
Strengths:
Outstanding versatility, tuneable suspension, relatively light weight, confidence inspiring, nice tires, awesome price for suspension set up!
Weaknesses:
A few weighty components, not as lively as other all mountain rigs, tire clearance may be an issue up front, doesn't buy me more trail time,
Similar Products Used:
Santa Cruz Heckler, Bullit
Bottom Line:
Beautiful, go-anywhere ride that sucks up the hits, yet pedals like my old hardtail. The two shock mounts allow you to tune the ride for steeper DH riding or livelier XC style. Bike is more responsive with more upright position. Tried it side-by-side with Heckler - Heckler definitely quicker and you can throw it around more, but the Enduro feels more confidence inspiring on the steeps. Suspension has lots of tuneability, but takes time to set up. Good video on Specialized site. Could upgrade shifters/rear cassette, but otherwise I'll upgrade as things break. Love the ride. Good for those who want an all-around bike that can take them beyond the XC trails. I wouldn't recommend it for consistent freeriding without some heavier-duty parts/wheels.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
ron erez
a Cross Country Rider
from israel Date Reviewed: December 23, 2007
Favorite Trail:
ben-samen
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$3000.00
Purchased At:
mazman
Strengths:
climb wonderfull very stable easy to ride to change the fork e-150 is wonderfull can do everything a dream come through with bike light gematry like 67 degress on 74 no bike like that , the bike for the normal rider that want to do everything and still be safe....
Weaknesses:
no weekness some time a noise but really nothing
Similar Products Used:
estx 70
Bike Setup:
rear hub change to xt and rear cassete change to xt
Bottom Line:
Really after 1600 km around 1000 miles i can say somthing I took the bike to bike trip to Cappadocia in turkey i rode all Israel south desert mountain singals really everything i can say best bike ever drove in my life and i am 50 years old .... If you are looking for a bike that can do everything that is your bike . A bike the my friends decriebe as your ride on a motor bike with the motor .
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nate
a Weekend Warrior
from Colorado Springs, CO Date Reviewed: November 10, 2007
Favorite Trail:
ute valley park/ falcon trail
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2499.00
Purchased At:
bicycle village
Strengths:
sweet handling, great traction, light weight
Weaknesses:
suspension durability seems a little suspect, truvativ BB already worn out, brakes are just ok, stock tires suck
Similar Products Used:
Fisher cake, yeti 575 (demo)
Bike Setup:
stock w/ Kenda Blue Groove 2.1 front, Nevegal 2.1 rear, low BB setting... gonna try a Chunder Pro 1-ply 2.3 front, FastTrack 2.2 rear combo next...
Bottom Line:
This is an update of an earlier review... I reviewed the bike about 2 weeks after i bought it, and since then i've done 2 days in Fruita, a week in central Ohio, 2 days at Winter Park, and plenty of riding the local trails. About 3 months in the air cartridge in the fork failed, wouldn't hold any pressure (specialized replaced it under warranty, and pretty quickly, too). Day 2 at Winter Park I started noticing a clunking sound that i thought was a suspension pivot, but is actually the BB. Can't believe it's already worn out. Avid Juicy 5 brakes are noisy as hell and don't have as firm a lever feel as i would like, but that's not a big deal. All in all, when everything is working right, the bike is PHENOMENAL. The platform in the suspension keeps the bike from pitching forward when you hit the brakes, so there's plenty of travel left for the bumps (Long trail @ WP). And the stability is unreal. I purposely hit the worst possible lines thru some rock gardens at my favorite trail, and the bike just eats it up! I love it!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Taurus
a
from Colorado Date Reviewed: November 6, 2007
Favorite Trail:
oh S#$%
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
2200`
Strengths:
Everything it climbs like a XC race machine and will decend like a bat out of hell. The 25 mm axle has close to no give and the combo of the dual crown fork is an absolute dream you can bank it as far as you want and it will just keep smiling.
Weaknesses:
the fork can jerk you around a little but the warranty covers it.
Similar Products Used:
yeti 575 kona coiler stumpjumper pro
Bike Setup:
stock exept for 203 brakes on rear (I have an XL frame)
Bottom Line:
If you want a rig that can handle absolutly any kind of terrain under the sun for any durration of ride this is it, the suspention is the most effecient of all it dosn't give going up and is certainlly plush on the way down. Now the review before this dude you are an xc rider and you crushed the frame on both sides, dude you are riding on some kind of terrain I have never herd of, this is M5 alloy we are talking about here not tin foil, I work in a large bike shop I see alot of enduros go out but not many come back and I have never herd off anyone even putting a dent in this frame so either you are lying or you are riding on some kind of terrain with a huge gravitational pull and razor rock. So to put it simple if you have no limits you need a bike that knows none this is that bike.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
blake
a Cross Country Rider
from boise,id Date Reviewed: November 6, 2007
Favorite Trail:
3 bears
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2500.00
Purchased At:
ken's bicycle warehouse
Strengths:
none
Weaknesses:
frame, front fork, rear shock, worst bike and POOREST quality i've ever seen!
Similar Products Used:
titus motolite
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
this bike is the worst joke and excuse for bike i've ever seen! do yourself a favor and don't buy one! minutes after i bought the bike i crushed the down tube on both sides! the triple clamp fork is what did it! wrecked at low speed twice the very first trail and the e-150 fork crushed the down tube on BOTH SIDES! absolutly no need for a triple clamp on this bike and if there going to put one on they need to reinforce the front end! oh, and the most important part, specialized will not warranty it! they'll tell you to take a flying leap! $2500 spent 5 min. later i don't have a working bike! to many other great brands out there to put up with this!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Anthony Dodd
a Cross Country Rider
from N.Warks United Kingdom Date Reviewed: October 29, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Cannock, Staffordshire
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$3400.00
Purchased At:
leisurelakes.co.uk
Strengths:
Attitude Adjuster, super plush ride, fantastic climbing ability.
Weaknesses:
E150 Fork
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Hardrock
Bike Setup:
SDG I Beam post & saddle, Sram XO Gripshift
Bottom Line:
Fantastic value for money, versatile capability, this bike seems to take everything in it's stride. After 6 months use the E150 Fork felt sticky and compression adjustment felt like zero, however, when I took the bike back to the dealer for a 6 month check I was told the fork was faulty and had been returned under warranty to Specialized. A new fork has been fitted and hopefully this should cure the problem. While many people may be put off buying one by the numerous comments and complaints about the E150 Fork, the bike feels fantastic in use. It seems problems concerning the Fork are related to 07 versions but the back up from Specialized is second to none; this was one of the deciding factors in purchasing this particular bike. Fantastic customer service. The bike climbs like a dream and descends very capably giving even a relative novice like me complete confidence.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim
a Weekend Warrior
from Phoenix, AZ, USA Date Reviewed: October 19, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Carbon Jct, CO
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$2700.00
Purchased At:
CG Bikes
Strengths:
Really is an all-arounder bike. Climbs like it has a motor and makes my XC/AM friends weep on the downhills.
Weaknesses:
It was assembled by apes that crushed my BB and rear hub bearings, and the air cartridge let go from the beginning...but Truvativ and Specialized sent the parts overnight -no problems since.
Similar Products Used:
Motobecane 600DS
Bike Setup:
Stock
Bottom Line:
I put in my time on a bikes-direct full susser to see if I would like MTB'ing. 2 years later I was ready to drop dough that I thought ludicrous when I bought my first bike. But after 6 months with this bike I'm left wondering why I waited so long to make the investment and more than once after a ride I have sworn I would have paid MUCH more for this ride. I get out of the house more now that I have this bike. I travel to exotic locations just to ride this bike. My hair is growing back and the opposite sex finds me more attractive. I have developed a flagrant disregard for hyperbole. Seriously though, in a single weekend I hit the ski resort for some blue trail action and the next day I'm out on a 6 hour epic with 3000+ feet of climbing. Does that not rule? I haven't spent the past 10 years trying every design so I can't say it's better than any other bike, but I do know that it has met and exceeded my desire to ride very varied terrain without ever feeling like I was riding the wrong bike. Done writing. Gone riding.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Orlando
a
from Belgium Date Reviewed: September 24, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Great geometry, very light for this kind of bike, looks awesome
Weaknesses:
Fork and rear shock (worked like a dream the first few rides and then die)
Similar Products Used:
Club roost xc4Enduro (great bike by the way!), giant NRS, Rocky mountain RM7 and a buch of XC hardtails
Bike Setup:
stock
Bottom Line:
This post is for the 2008 model; when working, the bike handles great, the 110-150 travel feature in the fork is really good and does make a difference in those steep uphills not letting the front wheel get off the ground, jumps great and corners like it's on rails. Now... after the first few rides the rear shock started getting stiffer and stiffer both in compresion and rebound, to the point where with max rebound dampening it doesn't extend anymore, the rebound dampening also started interfering with the compresion, when I slow down the rebound, the compresion gets stiffer, I'm more or less able to live with that, but then the front fork started developing some ridiculous stiction and small bump sensitivity went to zero! the fork doesn't even fully return now when compressed! the bike has to be lifted and the front wheel pulled.
Bottom line: Now I have a very heavy rigid bike that soaks all my energy when I pedal. I'll post a followup review after I get my bike from warranty. 1 chilli for value(both suspension elements failing after 1 month? come on!). 2 overall(other than the suspension problems, the bike is great!)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kot Vsapogah
a Weekend Warrior
from Fair Lawn, NJ Date Reviewed: September 14, 2007
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2400.00
Purchased At:
Sids NYC
Strengths:
Everything! it's making me a better rider...or maybe it's the other way around... i dont have to be a good rider because the bike takes care of correcting all my mistakes!!
Weaknesses:
Have not found any. Bike makes me do crazy things...way above my skill level...
Similar Products Used:
Trance 3, mongoose otero, Santa Cruz nomad
Bike Setup:
stock... will upgrate cassete and read hub soon
Bottom Line:
I am new rider and on this bike I can handle all kinds of terrain that I was not able to handle before. It's light, very stable, great suspension and brakes. I feel very comfortable on it. I was lucky to snatch 07 model for 2400, best value!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Eric
a Cross Country Rider
from Columbus GA Date Reviewed: September 10, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Phenix City Trail of Tears
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3500.00
Purchased At:
http://rideonbikes.com/
Strengths:
This review is for the 2008 Specialized Enduro SL Comp: Yea, yea I'm the first one on the block to have the complete bike. A good friend managed a 2007 frame and rear shock somehow. Strengths: Climbs better than I do, Baby head sized rocks no problem, 18" logs no problem, able to take the most direct route no matter what is in the way, stiff front end, stiff front end.
Weaknesses:
Stock Weight, downgraded components from 2007 but the quality may be the same as last year, Micro thin grips, $700 price increase over last years model with downgraded components,
Similar Products Used:
2005 Cannondale Prophet 2000, GT i-drive 2.0
Bike Setup:
Stock except Race Face Deuce with a bash guard, SRAM 990 Rear Cassette and 991 chain
Bottom Line:
The rear end does exactly as it is advertised 98% of the time. It stayed stiff for the climbs and would let go on the bumps going up and down. Had about two times in a 10.2 mile rocky rooty trail ride where the rear shock did not break loose. Thinking back, both times this happened I was slightly out of the saddle and the front end was weighted. Front end felt so frigging stiff laterally and super plush vertically!! Got the bike Friday night at the local shop, dialed in the shock and fork pressures according to the manuals. Rode this trail: http://trails.mtbr.com/cat/united-states-trails/trails-alabama/trail/PRD_401646_4511crx.aspx and the Enduro loved it all. Not sure if it was “New Bike-ritis” but I cleared section of the trail easily that I never cleared before. My only problem was the thin grips and my thin gloves proved to be a painful combination. I am hoping that better gloves, my old carbon bar and broken in grips will solve that minor problem. This bike should be good for all the “One Bike needs to do it all crowd”. Giving it a 4 and 4 due to the higher retail price over last year with out a appropriate increase in components value and the requirement to upgrade the drive train so you don’t feel like a Wal-Mart bike rider.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
patrick
a Weekend Warrior
from south africa Date Reviewed: August 8, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
3000
Strengths:
I am reposting an updated review because my last review was purly based on excitement and was not any help to someone looking for decent advice.... strong components, climbs very well, corners great and you can do some light DH and free ride if you want .. when i say light i mean very light ...
Weaknesses:
these are just very small issues that should not really be considered as a weakness.. . chain slaps when jumping, does not have a quick release for front tire so it can take a while to unscrew if you are in a hurry. seat adjustment can slip if you don't tighten it very very firmly, rebound adjust seems to have too much adjustment in the first two clicks and is hard to distinguish rebound after the next consecutive increments, attitude adjust set on the lower setting creates an oil hammer and makes a clinking sound when hitting objects but the setting comes in handy when going up hill. Tires that came with the bike are for organic moist forest soil and don't suit the dusty loose sandy soil in Johannesburg.
Similar Products Used:
teocali, nomad,
Bike Setup:
stock standard
Bottom Line:
here are some questions i sent to specialized head office
Q no 1 I recently bought an enduro sl comp "medium" frame size in south africa. I am 5f 7inches tall. I want to know what frame size is correct for my height. The reason I am asking is I find the top tube length very long on this bike compared to other all mountain / trail bikes such as the mongoose teocali and the nomad. The bike is set up on the lower bb setting. I keep hearing people talking about having a smaller frame for a trail bike is better for handling. Q no 2 I would also like to know what this bike can handle regarding free riding. On your bike set up video Mike Mc Andrews keeps on referring to big hits and the footage accompanied with his dialog has snippets of roam, the bikes that are shown going off drops and dh are the demo 7 range. I would like you to point out what riding the enduro sl comp should be used for realistically. For instance if I was a skilled rider could it handle a double black diamond trail at whistler ? Or should I stick to blue trails.
ANSWER
Thank you for your e-mail. Mediums generally fit someone from 5' 6" to 5'10" but it really is up to personal preference. As far as handling, the bike was designed for endurance cross country, unlike the Nomad which is more for aggressive all mountain riding. Although I haven't done much riding on the slopes, I would say that it was intended more for the blue diamond trails. Feel free to contact me again for any other questions you might have. ................................. So there you have it i hope that helps you guys out. I love this bike and i am enjoying the confidence this bike gives me when i hammer down a trail or hit a rock garden. After a 25 km ride i still feel that i can go for some more because it climbs so well. If the cockpit feels to long just Adjust your handle bars towards you and move your seat forward and it will feel much better.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hirgorom Emmanuel
a Weekend Warrior
from Maisons Laffitte Date Reviewed: July 11, 2007
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Mountain Biker Paris
Strengths:
Can do everything !
Weaknesses:
Still searching. I dream of an on the fly adjustable seat post but it never comes on origfinal equipments (Spe could work on that with better prices that Maverick does)
Similar Products Used:
A lot
Bike Setup:
Kept the original equipments
Bottom Line:
I am coming back on the first review I made early may. Since that time, I have ridden in the french Alps during the always incredible "Passportes" at "Les Portes du Soleil". It is a "hike/raid" of 80 km in the mountains being lifted for most climbs but not only. The day before (like every year), the friends and I were going full speed on the downhill tracks of Les Gets (DH worldcup level tracks). For this, I simply changed the tyres for a Spe Chunder 2.3 front (it fits perfect despite the crown)and a Maxxis High Roller 2.3 rear (harder compound). In synthesis, the bike is very stiff and precise in real dowhill conditions and the stability brings a lot of confidence. Despite the stability, the bike remains handy. In fact, I have never been so fast and the pleasure was awasome. Still, if it close to a dowhill bike of some times ago, it is more nervous and light. This year, I remained on the bike during some difficult climbs that I just walked alongside the bike last year (with Enduro 130 of 2003). Specialized has done something very special with this tool. I had to change the right cartridge before this trip due to oil leakage but it did not occured during the race. The service at Specialized in France and at my dealer was very professionnal, thanks to them. One question left only : when is my friend DENIS going to buy the same bike ???
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
patrick o'doherty
a Weekend Warrior
from south africa Date Reviewed: June 26, 2007
Favorite Trail:
wild coast
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$3571.00
Strengths:
tripple clamp fork all adjustable . shocks and forks that come on the comp also come on the top of the range enduro
Weaknesses:
gives me balls i dont have . . . crappy plastic pedals
Similar Products Used:
giant anthem 2, teocali comp
Bike Setup:
stock ..
Bottom Line:
this bike now lies next to me in bed... i lost my grlfiend.. i have a picture of it on my desktop . . . she gives me all i want ... she is quiet . . . tried having sex with it but it hurt . . .
need i say more . . . .
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Michael Quacinella
a Weekend Warrior
from Santa Cruz Date Reviewed: June 7, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Star Wars
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2700.00
Purchased At:
Another Bike Shop
Strengths:
This thing has it all. wanna climb? change to 4 inch travel and climb till your legs give out. Want to Downhill? Put it in 6 inch travel and take it anywhere. handles like a mercedes benz on single track. Deffinately the all everything bike... do what ever your heart desires
Weaknesses:
The stock tires deffinately take your confidence down a notch and the front rotor is 8" might be better witha 7" inch. minor things that can be fixed with little mods.
Similar Products Used:
Nothing Compares... the bike is really revolutionary
Bike Setup:
All Stock for now
Bottom Line:
Buy this bike for the price you wont be disappointed you can go anywhere and everywhere, i was nervous about the suspension at first but its the best thing about the bike. look at the videos in the tech section of specializes website and your going to be amazed.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nate
a Weekend Warrior
from Colorado Springs, CO Date Reviewed: May 19, 2007
Favorite Trail:
ute valley park
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2499.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Village
Strengths:
This thing rocks! Climbs FAR better than a bike with 6" travel has a right to, and descends brilliantly as well. That beefy yet lightweight fork tracks thru the gnarliest rock gardens with ease and the rear always feels planted, up or downhill.
Weaknesses:
The stock tires aren't confidence-inspiring, and the Juicy 5s are a touch soft for my liking... That's about it.
Similar Products Used:
Gary Fisher Cake 2 DLX, Yeti 575
Bike Setup:
Stock. The Specialized website has some videos on suspension setup. I like the high BB setting. The low BB setup feels like it steers a little too slow for normal trail riding. Hopefully I'm gonna get some Kenda Nevegals on it soon.
Bottom Line:
This is by far the best bike I have ever ridden. This thing is truly revolutionary. It climbs amazingly well (the Attitude Adjustment is rarely necessary), and descends with supreme confidence. This is honestly the "ONE BIKE." It's a tough trailbike and a light All Mountain bike in one seamless package. And compared to the other spec levels in this model line it's the best deal - exact same suspension as all the others!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
matt middleton
a Downhiller
from nz Date Reviewed: May 17, 2007
Favorite Trail:
wynyard
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$4000.00
Purchased At:
queenstown
Strengths:
Rear end of bike is amazing climbs, drops and descends perfectly. Fork is super smooth and tracks well. All parts very functional.
Weaknesses:
Forks developed a knocking from day one, were replaced by dealer for a set with a leaking air cartridge, this was replaced and have just started to develop the knock again. Fork rides great but does not drop that well tends to bottom out quite easily despite the air pressure being 20psi over company spec. Rear hub and cassette not good enough.
Similar Products Used:
Orange, Santa Cruz, Kona, Scott, Fox, Marzocchi, etc
Bike Setup:
Stock but with new rear wheel (dt 5.1 plus hugi hub), shift guide, nevegals, xt cassette, lock on odi's, v12 pedals, braided hoses.
Bottom Line:
Amazing bike, real shame that the fork has been a bit of a let down. Still rides great but fear that I will need to change the fork to something more reliable (and the front wheel due to the hub axle)if I am to get the one do it all bike that will last me a few years. Will update this review over time. Overall the best bike I have ridden to date feels like it is one piece.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Nelh
a Weekend Warrior
from Maisons Laffitte Date Reviewed: May 3, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Les Gets
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
Mountain Biker Paris
Strengths:
Awesome Design, in the "Nomad" spirit but not as caricatural ; the Santa Cruz is like a Muscle Car compared to an Aston Martin (the SL). For the rest, light weight, well equipped for the price. Integrated suspension concept that works.
Weaknesses:
Sram shifter sucks, rear hub and cogset not at the level.
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Enduro 2003, Demo, Cannondale Raven, Gemini, Super Vs, GT LTS and STS ...
Bike Setup:
Switched the cog set to XT saving ard 130 grammes. Oury lock on, Time Z pedals. That's all !
Bottom Line:
It seems I am the first one from the old continent to share my first experience about this bike. I can compare with my previous enduro from 2003. The new one is lighter (About 200 G but who cares); but not only. As I am mostly riding during winter in the Paris/Normandy area, the need for big suspensions is not obvious. But as I ride in the Alps and south of France during the high season, I like to have a bike able to go fast at downhill too. What a surprise it was to discover tha the SL is better not only at downhill but as well when climbing and riding on flat. The bike is very responsive, stiff. The fork is incredible and very easy to adjust when riding (the 110MN version when climbing and the compression knob on the right). When it is time to go downhill, ths suspensions that you (almost)forgot when climbing remind you that you have 150 mm travel F and R. (Sorry for all the metric references overseas friends). This bike likes to go fast and it is able too. Stiffer, more responsive, more stable and lighter than my Enduro 2003 it is simply a better and faster bike with the same rider. According to me, this new Enduro is a revolution (we like that here !), a step forward in term of versatility. If you nedd to ride fast in all kind of existing terrains,from flat gentle single track with the kids up to a french enduro race in the Alps, and if you can afford one bike only, this is the one. (Let's just cross fingers about reliability, it is not so far from being a pre-series). Thank you Specialized.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Gene Kyung
a Weekend Warrior
from Highlands Ranch, Colorado, USA Date Reviewed: April 15, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Indian Creek
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2649.00
Purchased At:
BikeSource
Strengths:
Great suspension, reasonable weight, balance, good climber and descender
Weaknesses:
Avid Juicy 5 brakes are too soft for me, saddle is a bit uncomfortable, it took 2 months to get it after I put my deposit down
Similar Products Used:
Stumpjumper FSR, Trek Liquid 10, Kona Dawg
Bike Setup:
Stock setup straight out of the box; just adjusted the suspension for my weight, and riding ability
Bottom Line:
This bike rocks!! I highly recommend to anyone looking for an All Mountain or XC bike. Climbs really well and descends well too. If you are going to own one bike, this is the one.
The climb mode on the forks is really cool and does not require you to stop or reach down to change modes.
The only thing I would change are the brakes - I would upgrade them as I like my brakes more sensitive and not mushy.
What can I say, I love this bike and glad the sales associate showed it to me in the catalog; that was one downfall, the 2 month wait to get this thing. Luckily they already had one on order when I put my deposit down.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
OC-Biker
a Racer
from Aliso Viejo, CA Date Reviewed: April 8, 2007
Favorite Trail:
San Juan
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$2245.00
Purchased At:
Rock N Road
Strengths:
Awesome suspension yet still a good climber.
Weaknesses:
Rear cassette is a boat anchor, SRAM Shifters are functional but not very smooth, No pedals.
Similar Products Used:
Iron Horse SGS, Enduro (2002), FSR Stumpy (2006), EPIC 2006, Fuel 100, Hardtail (not similar but hey it's a bike)
Bike Setup:
Replaced tires with Nevegals (best all around tires made), Selle Italia Flite saddle, Wellgo Ti pedals, XT cassette.
Bottom Line:
Excellent mix of downhill performance, solid climbing, and reasonable weight (under 30 lbs with above setup).
The suspension is amazing! 6inches of plush suspension but still efficient when climbing. The fork can be easily adjusted for climbing (4" mode). Unlike other adjustable forks this one can be done on the fly even while you are climbing. You don't have to reach down to the crown. Since the fork is a dual crown the adjustment is in easy reach next to the bar and it's only a quarter turn. The rear shock also has a pretty easy adjustment (4 positions from Soft to Firm). With the fork at 4" and the rear on firm this bike climbs better than most trail bikes. With the fork at 6" and the rear on soft this bike descends better that most All Mountain bikes.
One thing you'll need to get use to is finding new trails. With this bike all my regular downhill trails are boring. This bike makes them all too easy. There's also almost no penalty for that downhill performance. The bike still climbs exceptionally well.
Specialized hit the mark with this bike. If I could only own one bike this would be it. They made some compromises on the Comp model in the components to keep the price down, but they are all functional. The suspension and frame alone on this bike are worth over $2K.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
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