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Submitted by
Dee Gee
a
from uk
Date Reviewed: March 12, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | uk | | Strengths: | Warranty, Handling, Strength... | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | 97 Stumpjumper M2 | | Bike Setup: | 15.5 inch,Manitou SX Ti forks, Velocity downhill rims, hope hubs, XTR etc etc | | Bottom Line: | I brought my S Works M2 in 1998 after owning a stumpjumper M2 for a year. I brought a 15.5 inch frame as i'm an x bmxer and wanted a frame that i could thrash and race and i can honestly say that i have been more than happy with my S Works M2. I have rode trails, downhills such as Penhurst, Forest of Dean and many other places in the uk. I have done many drop offs ranging from 5 - 13 and jumped over doubles with a maybe 20 foot drops.. Basically this frame has handled everything i have chucked at it and is now in its 7th year of life, and i have alos had some pretty extreme crashes on it including being hit by 2 cars! i have heard of people cracking them at times but then i also hear that about virtually every frame on the market. I am not a heavy person (10 stone) which i guess is part of the reason the frame has done me so well, but then saying that its not like i have'nt broken a frame as i managed to crack every bmx frame i every owned except for my Skyway TA. Love this frame and i will stay with it until it dies on me... | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tyler
a Cross Country Rider
from H-Town
Date Reviewed: August 26, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Vietnam | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$850.00 | | Purchased At: | Milford Bike | | Strengths: | Super Light, Really Strong, Came with good components, Climbs great | | Weaknesses: | The frame's a little long for me, It looks so nice that i'm afraid to beat it up, You cant put disc brakes on it either, i think they make some sort of adapter though | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Hardrock Sport (the M2 rides like a Porche compared to that) | | Bike Setup: | Manitou Mars Fork, Avid V-Brakes, XT Front Derailleur, XTR in the back, Some Ritchey and Specialized Components | | Bottom Line: | This bike is amazing. I've been punishing it for the past season and it hasnt shown any signs of wear and tear other than a broken chain and maybe my bottom bracket and my seat. The frame is holding up great though, i just wish i could put disc brakes on it. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dan
a Cross Country Rider
from Lafayette, Ca
Date Reviewed: February 25, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$850.00 | | Strengths: | This bike is great, it can take anything you give it keaping in mind it's an XC bike, my gloss black frame looks amazing, and it handles like a dream. | | Weaknesses: | None, this frame is great. | | Similar Products Used: | Treks, Giants, Santa Cruzs, etc... | | Bike Setup: | M2 frame, XT, Truvativ Stylo Team Cranks (awesome), Thomson, Manitou SXR (still holdin' up) | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike. It has taken everything i have ever dished out, and then some. Climbs and sprints like a champ, and doesnt feel too harsh on the downhill, although it is extremely stiff. It goes where you point it and does what its told, all with style. Looks and feels great, holds up for years under abuse, and the price wont kill you. An overall great bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Asheville, NC
Date Reviewed: February 1, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | All of Pisgah Forest | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Purchased At: | Liberty Bikes | | Strengths: | Responsibly light, very durable and quick frame. | | Weaknesses: | Original parts pick didn't last long | | Similar Products Used: | '86 Trek 900 | | Bike Setup: | Syncros cranks, stem and seat post. Original Rock Shock XC, XT r.der.,cas., bb, shifters & c.r. Sachs f.der, dia-compe long arm brakes. Mavic Crossmax f., xtr w/Mavic cermamic r. WTB NP Headset. | | Bottom Line: | Ridden hard for 8 years and still no problems with this frame. Being a Clydesdale (6'4" 230 lbs), this is very impressive.
Bought the 20.5" Comp. version in '95 to be a 24-Hour race machine. Immediately replaced the stock seatpost with a longer/lighter Syncros, broke the original Strongarm cranks a year later, replaced with Syncros. Replaced orginal xt v-brakes after 1 year with more reliable (at the time) dia-compe. Burned through three r. deraileurs, 2 f. der., three stems and headsets, two sets of shifters, 2 pairs of SPDs, 4 fork rebuilds, 4 broken seatposts (warrantied by Syncros, thank you), 4 bars and a partridge in a pear tree. The current setup has been working fine now for almost four years.
Although I seem to be a parts masher, the Stumpy M2 frame has bested me on durability. It just will not break. I always rationalized upgrades by buying better parts when the old ones wear out or break. To date I have not been able to use this rationale on the frame. It seems to be bomb proof.
My bones seem to take a harsher beating on the long rides so I am going to buy a FS rig this year (Enduro?), but I am going to keep the M2 for those nostalgic days.
This frame is suitable for the XC rider who is looking for a do-all, go anywhere hardtail that will stand up to constant abuse and is still very light (mine weighs in just at 24 lbs).
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joel Rogers
a Cross Country Rider
from Lancaster, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: October 8, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Cannell Plunge | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Strengths: | Neutral handling, fairly stiff in the BB, somewhat supple in the rear... | | Weaknesses: | Flimsy derailluer hanger, bottom pull cables... | | Similar Products Used: | Giant ATX 880 (yes, back in the 1980's), Cannondale M700, Pro-Flex Animal | | Bike Setup: | Zoke' Atom Z2, XT, Race Face, Velomax Climax, Sach's version of the gripshift... | | Bottom Line: | I've been through 3 sets of wheels, two seatposts, three seats, three handlebars, three forks, two wives, a derailleur or two, three pairs of shoes, one set of brake levers, numerous trips to moab, utah and colorado, not even going to try and count the tires, chains and brake pads, and the frame (and the Sach's shifters) still remains...what else can I say?....
Actually I am thinking about finally upgrading it with a Airborne Ti frame, or possibly a M4 S-Works....8^), but I will keep the old M2 just to hang in the shop, for nothing else but sentimental value...
I'm giving it a 5 value rating for lasting so damn long
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan Vanlieshout
a Downhiller
from Great Falls MT
Date Reviewed: December 24, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | united | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$300.00 | | Purchased At: | local bike shop | | Strengths: | light--who cares | | Weaknesses: | i broke | | Similar Products Used: | specialized p3--also crap | | Bike Setup: | trials setup | | Bottom Line: | I broke the chainstay doing a 5 foot drop/gap 8 feet across
I landed smooth and it just f***ing broke. Thats why im giving it one flamin turd. So bottom line dont buy it unless you're a 50lb weenie xc rider. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Seth
a Cross Country Rider
from Sunderland, VT
Date Reviewed: June 26, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Zogg's Highway | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$600.00 | | Purchased At: | privatley | | Strengths: | This bike is super stiff (read:punishing!) and climbs like a scared cat. It does however require a bit of adjustment/setup with regards to parts to make it shine. | | Weaknesses: | It is a battering ram on your spine on those epics. | | Similar Products Used: | GT Zaskar, Trek 7000, IF HT | | Bike Setup: | Titec Hell Bent risers, RaceFace stem/cranks/BB, Serfas lock on grips, XTR drivetrain/brakes, TR post, Bontrager saddle, Time Atac pedals, Conti Traction Pro up front, Tioga XC in back, 517's on XT hubs w/ 14g DT spokes, Z5 100m fork, RaceFace trials ring (RF chainrings) | | Bottom Line: | This bike can do it all, and do it well. I have it set up a bit tall. I found that it really responded better to "trail" riding input if I was farther from the front wheel...i wanted a veritile bike that could get me up to the top, then turn around and play all the way down, hit ledges and log jams with ease, and then jet along the sniggle at the head of the pack. I can't even begin to recite the list of beefed up parts that this frame has outlasted (I weigh in at 195)! It really is an awsome bike...but I must admit,I am finally moving on to a full-sus rig (AEON Isis) to apease my grummbling back! That said, I will be keeping my orange monster fully intact, and ready to play for some time to come! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Crazy Bit#$
a Weekend Warrior
from NY
Date Reviewed: March 28, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Plattekill,baby!! | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Strengths: | -Light
-Oh so responsive
-Climbs like a speed-addled monkey
-Good geometry | | Weaknesses: | -STIFF!!This bike will beat you up
-I cracked it at the headtube after a 6-foot drop-off..damn,I loved this bike too.. | | Similar Products Used: | I now own both a S.C Chameleon(awesome),and a Surly 1x1(also awesome);I test-rode a friend's Voodoo Sobo(VERY light,but flexed like hell)for a week | | Bike Setup: | My '98 Stumpy had LX/XT 8-speed parts and a '98 Manitou SX fork--everything else was pretty basic stuff.I dumped the stock clipless pedals for a set of Time ATAC's,then a set of GT platforms.It was my first mountain bike.I still have the mortally wounded frame hanging from my wall... | | Bottom Line: | I bought my Stumpy February of '99.It was a KICKASS bike...
....until I cracked it.DAMN!But this is not the frame's fault.I am a 200-lb hucker/former BMX'er who enjoys a good deal of urban assault and technical XC,and I routinely open a can of whoop-ass on my bikes--drops,high-speed curb hits,the occasional stairway,and other kinds of completely insane abuse.It finally bit the dust last July after I hucked it off a 6-footer that the locals call the "Widow-Maker."As a result,I busted the fork beyond repair and also put a MASSIVE crack in the headtube/downtube junction.I was pissed beyond belief!!
...Anyway,it was an awesome bike.It was light,and the geometry was "point-and-shoot."It also climbed and pedaled REALLY quickly and it was the best damn bike for sprinting.Really my only complaint about the bike was that the ride was STIFF,and I mean REALLY stiff.I see a lot of Stumpys around with suspension seatposts..I understand why.
I will be fair and still give this baby its proper 5 CHILIES!It won't let you down.Specialized makes AWESOME FRAMES!!
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
AIDZ Kent
a Weekend Warrior
from Houston, TX
Date Reviewed: March 8, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | Memorial | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$400.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo | | Strengths: | Color, Strength, Handling | | Weaknesses: | Weight distribution | | Bike Setup: | XT/XTR/Raceface/Kore | | Bottom Line: | I weight 240lbs, i have crashed more times than i can remember, broke more stuff off this frame than i can afford and the frame keeps going...love it! My Guts easily outweigh my ability, the bike gets me through it, most of the time! Its my favourite thing. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from Charlotte, NC
Date Reviewed: March 6, 2001 | | Favorite Trail: | I like'em all!!! | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Strengths: | Strength & Weight | | Weaknesses: | Rear Derailer Hanger. Kind of like the akillies(sp) heal of this bike... | | Similar Products Used: | Fisher (9mo), Cannondale(1mo), Trek's(2yr) | | Bike Setup: | Full XT, 2001 xfly fork | | Bottom Line: | After 4 years of riding this frame I am just now getting ready to move on. Over the years I have replaced everything except the frame. It has served me well! Besides a lot of dirt and a few scratches it shows no sign of wear!
It is very quick & responsive. You always know what to expect from it as it never gives. I am a heavy rider around 210 And I have never noticed any flex or give when climbing.
The only reason I am moving on is for a new Klein adept full suspension. I can not recamend this frame enough. If you have a chance of getting a used one don't be afraid to pick one up! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Milhouse Vanhoutan
a Weekend Warrior
from Springfield, Arizona, U.S.A.
Date Reviewed: May 11, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Dwyers Canyon | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Light weight, solid feel, great handling | | Weaknesses: | Very expensive - I could have spent a little more for Ti. | | Similar Products Used: | Other M2's | | Bike Setup: | Race Face everything. | | Bottom Line: | I've always been particular to Specialized Frames and Bikes, and the 2000's kick ass. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jo shmo
a
from kamloops
Date Reviewed: May 4, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Rose Hill | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | Very fast,strong and beefy this bike is good anywhere | | Weaknesses: | I only have one frame | | Similar Products Used: | condoms, fried corn, your mom | | Bike Setup: | xt-lx 521 hard ano 97 sx ti | | Bottom Line: | This bike rocks | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
p hud
a Cross Country Rider
from Louisville
Date Reviewed: March 27, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | any | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Strengths: | Handling, stiffness, weight, durability. | | Weaknesses: | stiffness | | Similar Products Used: | Chromo Scott frame | | Bike Setup: | 98 stumpy, xt-xtr, easton riser bar | | Bottom Line: | This is a singletrack frame, no-doubt, and it positively comes alive on rolling, twisting terrain. Stumpies are great if you like super quick handling. Ya gotta stay alert but then it is a very exhilerating fun ride. The quick handling has saved my butt sooo many times. This frame absolutely will not quit on you even if you're spun out and stalled on a steep incline. You can hold your balance, re-adjust your weight and heave-ho, 9 out of ten times and get up that hill without dabbing your foot once. It's way stiff but not like a "dead" hunk of iron feel; springiness ain't the word but it gives back in response to your efforts-- especially hard ones. Weight distribution is probably a little neutral for intense downhills which is the reason why I slapped on the riser bar. This has helped my confidence quite a bit. (chop the width so it doesn't slow your steering too much)
Two years ago I biffed hard enough to put myself in the hospital, the bike cartwheeled like 20 feet and I've given it all sorts of grief since then but it still keeps trucking along. No complaints. I love the ride and the value isn't going to be beat by any company. Give it a chance. I am being honest when I say I think this frame has made me a better rider. Stumpjumpers forever. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jamie Maclean
a Downhiller
from Douglas, Isle Of Man, UK
Date Reviewed: March 24, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Fort William DH course | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Bomb proof frame when bought new.
Light.
Looks cool. | | Weaknesses: | Heard about lots of cracks in the chainstay bridge.
Cracked the head tube on my second hand one. | | Similar Products Used: | Azonic DS1
Azonic DS2
Spooky Metalhead | | Bike Setup: | X verts, hope discs, sram 9.0, roox bars, azonic shorty, flite saddle, D521 on hope bulbs, Blackspire DS chain device, L+M dh cranks | | Bottom Line: | Even though i cracked the head tube on my secondhand M2 shortly after i bought it, i would still buy a new one, because they look cool, they are stiff, light and my particular one lasted through two years of will longden, (its an Ex team MBUK '98 slalom bike). so when i have finished paying the bike off ill buy a new frame, until then im racing my M2 with two cracks in the head tube with holes drilled at the end of them, cos i love it so much! Bear in mind that the value rating takes into accont high, new price of the frame. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jared huh!
a Racer
from ????
Date Reviewed: February 29, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | Milstream | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | -nice and light
-realy strong built, noce clean welds, nice gussetting
-realy good durable paint
-nice ride for aluminum
-realy hard to dent
-I've crashed it hard and it still looks fine | | Weaknesses: | -for some rides it's to harsh
-My solution a rock shox seatpost | | Similar Products Used: | -97 hammer race | | Bike Setup: | 99 M2 Pro with race-face everything and a rock shox seatpost with michelin sprints and fire xc pros | | Bottom Line: | good buy no matter what M2 you buy even the M4's are realy nice and it'll last a long time realy well built super strong might seem a little harsh but you can tolerate it if you don't want a heavy suspension seatpost. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joshua Reed
a Racer
from Murfreesboro, TN, USA
Date Reviewed: January 12, 2000 | | Favorite Trail: | lone mountian | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Strengths: | light weight, stiffness, nice blue color, excellent value for the money, not as harsh a ride as most aluminum bikes | | Weaknesses: | suspect longevity, such a deal that they are too common at the races. | | Similar Products Used: | steel hardtail and two full suspension bikes | | Bike Setup: | XTR wheels, Superfly fork, Esp 9.0 shifters, derailleurs, and brake levers, syncros bar and stem. | | Bottom Line: | I really like this frame, after a year of hard use. It is simply a great deal. It is stiffer than a ti frame of the same weight, more compliant than other aluminum frames, and the best deal around. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Aaron Santry
a Weekend Warrior
from Wichita, KS
Date Reviewed: December 31, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Not many in Kansas | | Duration Product Used: |
more than 3 years | | Strengths: |
Perfect fit for my body type. | | Weaknesses: |
Large diameter seatpost limits opitions on upgrades | | Similar Products Used: |
Many, used to work in a bike shop: Cannondale, Trek, Bontrager, Marin, Gary Fisher, Raleigh, VooDoo, | | Bike Setup: |
M2, '96 Judy SL, Cook Racing Cranks, 747's, Mavic CrossMax, ChrisKing Headset, TNT BB, Syncros Ti Handlebar, Syncros Seatpost, XTR Drivetrain, XT V-brakes, ESP 8.0 Shifters, Ringle Stem | | Bottom Line: | Sweetest ride I have found. I bought this for the fram and replaced almost everything except the shifters over the first year to choose what I thought were the best. The most important thing is that you buy for the frame fit and feel. This frame has a longer top tube. I am 6ft, 190 with shorter legs and longer trunk then most, so the fit is great. I love how the steering responds, quick and decisive. It climbs well, but not as good as the Bontrager's I have ridden (Back when Keith made them himself). I have thought about buying a frameset as a backup in case the big red S quits making them and I break mine. If that happens, I would probably go with a S-works M4. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Fast Ed
a Weekend Warrior
from Westboro MA
Date Reviewed: September 29, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Nam in Milford mA | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Paint, forgiving ride for AL, Spread out positioning | | Weaknesses: |
Perhaps the 5 year warranty | | Similar Products Used: |
GT Avalanche, Various Cannondales | | Bike Setup: |
Atom bomb fork, 5 yr old XT drlrs and shifters, LX cranks and hubs, Mavic rims, Fire XC tires, Easton Riser bars( they rule, try'em) | | Bottom Line: | I just moved off a super rigid ass-pounding GT Avalanche and I can't beleive the difference in ride. I thought The GT was great until I built up the S works M2xx frameset and rode it. The rear triangle seems to be more forgiving, maybe coz its butted AL and not straight guage(Stumpjumper m2s are staright guage also I think). Stuff that used to rattle my teeth, I hardly notice. I can't beleive the complaints others have saying its to stiff/rigid. I got a 15.5 coz I like a small bike and I can flex the frame standing on the crank arms. My only worry is the frame warranty which was changed from Lifetime to 5 years. Anyway this bike rides real nice, climbing is excellent even with risers. Moving from a small GT frame, I also notice that the M2 top tube is longer for a comparably sized bike. This more spread position suits me fine and results in a more comfortable ride (for me). Final word, although it has too many stickers its still a nicelooking bike and an even better riding one. Look for deals, I got Bike Alley in Worcester to sell the frame off a fully built bike for a reasonable price. I thnk Cambria also has small sizes available for cheap $. I would give it 5 star but the limited warranty is an issue for me. May never matter but... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Don (Update from 5 reviews down)
a Cross-Country Rider
from Hudson
Date Reviewed: September 4, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Lots of them | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Climbs,Handling, & Warranty Honor | | Weaknesses: |
Not Titanium You'll understand why... | | Similar Products Used: |
Specialized Rockhopper,StumpJumper,Sworks M2, Sworks M4 & Proflex FS | | Bike Setup: |
White Brothers sc70, XTR,XT componetry | | Bottom Line: | I'll try to make this as brief as possible. If you have read my previous review (5 reviews down) I gave a 5 Star rating to my 97 Sworks even after breaking the frame, mainly because the bike performance was great & Specialized honored their warranty. For that replacement 98 Sworks I mentioned, it too has called it quits! (Same place! chainstays crosstube weld...). Both of these bikes had not been seriously crashed, yet I did trail hammer them consistantly with a good amount of drop offs (mostly 2' high or so but up to 4' sometimes when I felt brave). I think the combination of my style of riding and my weight eventually fatigued the welds enough to crack. Well that's my theory anyway! Like I said before that the 99 M4 may be my next. Well Sure enough, it's been 2 months now with the M4, so far so good... Due to the M4's new frame material and M.A.X. design, the crosstube between the chainstays no longer exist and the overall frame suppose to be 30% stronger, on the other a hand that's what they said about the 98 Sworks. Lets see how long this one will last. I'll stay with Specialized until the day my warranty runs out. It gives me 2.5 years to save for a forgiving and strong titanium frame. Maybe by then they'll have a titanuim frame? I doubt It! I'll still give a good rating yet one star drop for inconvenience. So much for brief! The Storkular | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Zeb
a Weekend Warrior
from Watson
Date Reviewed: July 19, 1999 | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Light
good Geometry
good handler
forgiving over hard hits | | Weaknesses: |
a little stiff over the washboard type terran | | Similar Products Used: |
Landgear
indy shox
No where near the bike of the stumpjumper | | Bike Setup: |
Factory setup
mavic straight spoked wheels with stout hubs
Front LX
rear XTR
Manitou front fork | | Bottom Line: | SO far I am more than satisfied It rides well enough that I can push myself on it and know the bike will alow me to handle safly through rough spots. I don't have to fight the bike to get it into the position I want it.
It's a smooth ride and makes the ride more enjoyable | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
MikeD
a Cross-Country Rider
from Victoria
Date Reviewed: June 20, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Milstream | | Duration Product Used: |
more than 3 years | | Strengths: |
super stiff, great climber, light | | Weaknesses: |
rough in the bumpy stuff, the paint, the strength of a few years back | | Similar Products Used: |
I've just ridden M2's all my life excpet for one brodie | | Bike Setup: |
99 M2-Pro frame with a 98 Z-1 Bam , and all 99 Race-Face Parts with Panaracer Fire XC Pros 2.1, and an avocet 40r air saddle with ti rails, and a pair of xtr wheels and an xtr-esp 9.0sl drivetrain | | Bottom Line: | read how I got he bike built up and it still weighs a little over 23lbs, fast great handler and great clibers= the m2 frames. I started riding M2's in 93 and I sold that one in 95 then the 95 broke, so I got a brodie, then sold that then got a 97 M2 broke that to, in the bottom bracket area, then I got another 97 M2 then I broke that too in a crash which specialized said even though it was my fault they'd warranty it anywyas, which was cool. So I sold those parts off of the 97 and got the 99 M2-Pro frameset and pimped it out with a bunch of sweet parts. And the frame look better built this year so I doubt this will break for a while.
Only because of specialized warranty and great handling and overall performance are the reasone I'm still on it. I'm 5'11 and about 170lbs and I like the North Shore and Extreme riding with a lot of trials and jumping and the bmx track so I'm hard on the frames. Don't ever buy mavic x-222 rims they are the worst. Get Syncros XLT's the strongest rims I've ever ridden.
I love M2 don't even let them breaking affect your descision because specialized will help you out no matter what providing it wasn't ran over or dropped off you car on the highway. Get M2 you will not be dissapointed. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross-Country Rider
from Bolingbrook IL
Date Reviewed: June 6, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
knock knolls | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
its extreamly stiff and strong. | | Weaknesses: |
it lets you know that | | Similar Products Used: |
performance | | Bike Setup: |
as see on the page, xt/xtr/ syncros manitou mavic 221 | | Bottom Line: | its a damn stiff bike, sweet ride, i recommend this for heavy riders because it beats the s*** out of me and im 6'1 235 | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross-Country Rider
from Weymouth
Date Reviewed: May 17, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Benji's Hill, Hingham | | Duration Product Used: |
6 months | | Strengths: |
Strong, stiff, responsive. Good geometry, nice paint job. | | Weaknesses: |
Not a fan of bottom-bracket routed rear derailleur cable. That's all. | | Similar Products Used: |
Trek 930, Rocky Mountain Hammer Race, Balance. | | Bike Setup: |
Indy XC long travel, Grip Shift 600, XT components, Use Shockpost, Oury grips, Panaracer Smoke, Kenda front tire, 737 pedals. | | Bottom Line: | I'm pleased. This frame has been a little stiffer than my steel 930. But by moving the shock post over to it I don't feel the bumps. And the whole set-up is still only 24.5 lbs. Handles well and goes where you point it. Climbing has improved with this bike, even without bar-ends. If you're upgrading a mid-level steel or aluminum bike, try this one out. I also got mine via Supergo. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Troll
a Weekend Warrior
from La.
Date Reviewed: May 17, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Lincoln Parish Park in Ruston La. | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Light weight
strength
great handeling | | Weaknesses: |
none yet | | Similar Products Used: |
Giant Iguana
DBR V-link
C-dale Super V900
GT Pantera
DBR X-10
DBR XR-4
Trek 8500 | | Bike Setup: |
M2 frame,Marzocchi Z2 BAM,Avid 2.0 brakes, SRAM 9.0 levers,9.0 shifters, 9.0 ESP rear and XT front, cross lands w/mach ss/sk tires,XT crank and rear cogs, Titec hellbent bar,Kore stem, and Serfas Lola kevlar seat. | | Bottom Line: | I just got this frame, traded a 98 DBR V-link for it. I love how lite it is! It sprints like a dream!! I built it up yesterday from the parts I took off the V-link. Man does this thing handle! I liked it so much that I rode it until well after dark! I kept hitting trees cause I could not see, so I had to quit ( just kidding). Any way I can't wait to get it on the trails! Could not ride right now we hosted X Tera here this weekend and I had to work (free bike tech)the event. Any way I'll let ya know more when I spend more time on it. Later, Troll | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shadrack Jones
a Cross-Country Rider
from Bakersfield Ca
Date Reviewed: April 3, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Kern River Canyon | | Duration Product Used: |
less than 1 month | | Strengths: |
Quick..responsive..great climber | | Weaknesses: |
I've broken 2 M2 frames ('95 &'97) on the crossbar weld on the chainstay...'99 frame is redesigned with no crossbar.. | | Bike Setup: |
XT/LX..RS judy XC.. | | Bottom Line: | The new M2 frame seems much better than the '95 or the '97..very quick..different geometry makes for better climbing...Specialized honors their warrenty...I had the frame in less than 2 weeks...It's a good bike.. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Don
a Cross-Country Rider
from Hudson, MA
Date Reviewed: March 14, 1999 | | Favorite Trail: |
Vietnam | | Duration Product Used: |
2 Years | | Strengths: |
Strong,light,Responsive handling,& Climbs. | | Weaknesses: |
Stiffness on the long rides. | | Similar Products Used: |
Owned Specialized Stumpjumper,Rockhopper,
Full suspension Proflex 953. | | Bike Setup: |
97&98 Sworks, Manitou SX Ti, White Brothers SC70 | | Bottom Line: | When I bought the a 97 Sworks It was like night and day compared to my full suspension Proflex. My skills improved dramatically, I had so much control, handling was awesome! As corny as this may sound I literally became one with that dahm bike, I was comfortable & confident! Large obstacles became an inviting challenge rather than an dangerous situation (up and over!). Call it the placebo effect if you want, but Geometry does make a difference. I must mention as most of us know, manufacturers design XC bikes for the average weight riders (150-175lbs);After 8 months of abuse, myself being 6'5 210lbs and a very aggressive rider I did break the frame(cross-tube between the chainstays). Not to worry, frame life time warranty! Specialized set me up with a brand new 98 team red edition frame two weeks later. No problems with the tortured 98, one year later. Anyway the Sworks M2 is a claw climbing, switch backing machine that I still consider one of the best STRENGTH/WEIGHT/COST ratio bikes on the market. 5***** (99 M4 could be my next...) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
eric planting
a cross-country rider
from Arlington,Virginia
Date Reviewed: January 19, 1999 | | Bottom Line: |
I like this frame it rocks; it climbs, it turns quickly, and it's easy to show off with trials on, and I can jump like 2 feet(no kidding) with the seat all the way down. My only complaint is that the seatpost supergo included with the frame has some insane geometry and points down at like 15 or 20 degrees but that's not really the fault of the frame. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Smoothness
a cross-country rider
from California
Date Reviewed: December 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
As someone who has owned a couple generations of M2's, I think I can speak pretty astutely on this sweet frame. The M2 is not as harsh as my old Cdale nor as flexy as a Litespeed I used to ride; the M2 is right in the middle. What made me an M2 loyalist is the handling. This frame begs to be ridden hard, to be pushed faster. Sure, other frames are more exotic, lighter, tricker, or beautiful, but for the money, you can't beat the M2. It is an economic workhorse. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin Parsons
a racer
from Massachusetts
Date Reviewed: October 24, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my M2 for about half a year and it is sstill in good shape. This is suprising because I ride hard and I ride alot. This is a good frame for the price and it suits me well. Im' only 15 and ride with people 2 times my age and I whoop their ass on this frame. Other people complain it is to stiff but being 15 I guess I can suck it up. Specialized makes good bikes for good prices. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alvin
a cross-country rider
from Orange County, CA
Date Reviewed: September 30, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just purchased the 97 Stumpjumper M2 a week ago, used, and I love it. It's my first mountain bike and I don't know why I didn't buy these rides sooner. Coming from being a roadie, I do appreciate a stiff frameset for the climbs and this bike does not disappoint. The metal matrix offers superior stiffness over simple aluminum, yet still weighs about 3lbs.!!! I also love the generous and rich paint job Specialzed did. It's an awesome baby blue color. Ride on!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bruce D.
a cross-country rider
from Nashville
Date Reviewed: September 29, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had my S-works for around 4 months, and just love it. The quality of the frame was evident right out of the box, and it is light, while not sacrificing strength. I've rode it hard over my favorite rocky trails, and crashed hard a number of times without damage. While I am at heart a steel man, and have coveted ti in my idle hours, I don't think I could ask for any more than this frame. I have had steel bikes in the past, and while this frame rides a bit harsher, I like the feel of lateral rigidity and control you just don't have with a light steel frame. The only drawbacks were a crummy seatpost clamp, and the free seat looked pretty but was horrible. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Candy
a weekend warrior
from Burnsville, MN
Date Reviewed: September 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I haven't yet recieved my bike frame (stumpy M2) from supergo. Only $309 not to bad A? The service was pretty shitty though if you can get through all that I'd hurry and buy one since there's only 17 (19 frames) left. I'm putting a 98 Judy SL (long travel) with XT/XTR anyone have any intelligent comments on this ride let me know. To all the other freaks on this page, get a life or in most of your cases a job! Thanks! | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Randy
a weekend warrior
from Missouri
Date Reviewed: September 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Yep these frames great I've got a 97 stumpy pro in that kickin big green. Well I'm 210 lbs. and the stiffness of this frame inspires confidence. I know ti frames are great for those 150 lb riders out there, but us big guys make those things flex so much. And hey these frames weigh about the same and caost a lot less. Yep lots of fun | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Austin Powers
a racer
from Singapore
Date Reviewed: September 25, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Ok ok, yo man!! This is one shagedelic thing!, it rocks, it's groovy baby, it is absolutely smashin!! It cuts corners like hot knife thru butter, it's fast thru flats and it fly's uphills. So guys and gals, you wanna know what this thingy can do for a person like you???? What you waiting for? Try one now....oh groovy babe! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian
a racer
from Oswego, NY
Date Reviewed: September 23, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I am now the proud owner of a '97 S-WORKS. Glancing through the papers of a bike mag., my friend pointed out the frame. Hey, Brian, wasn't that the frame you wanted? Sure enough, Supergo had the exact frame I had been looking for at a sweet price. The parts on the frame are the parts plus upgrades from my STUMPJUMPER. This bike is the best I've ridden yet. Light, stiff, fast, and it'll climb any hill faster than your buddies bike. For those of you lacking the skills necessary to use a true stiff racing frame, stop reading. For those who are interested in bringing their riding to a new level, definatly look into this frame. I promise that stiffness translates straight into speed and crisp, responsive handeling. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jamie Dodd
a racer
from Sherborn Ma
Date Reviewed: September 22, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a 97' S-WORKS and I really like the frame. It is nice and light and it is very durable. I want to get the new M4 frame. I have taken it through the roughest of terrain. I brought it to Mount Snow and Killington and it hadled great. I have also brought it to a place called Vietnam in Milford MA which is probally the most technical place to ride in MA. My friend has a S-WORKS too and he always brings it to Vietnam and he says that his bike manuvers great over bolders, through mud, over roots, and down steep cliff like descents. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wes
a cross-country rider
from Duluth
Date Reviewed: September 17, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
This is a sweet bike. I have the M2 not the s-works. Couldn't believe how light the frame was out of the box. felt like i was picking up my back tire. pretty amazing. It climbs and accelerates way better than my old GT Karakoram, but that's still an awesome bike. It's great for trials and picnic table stuff. My only complaint is the pedals seem like they're lower than on my GT. But that's pretty minor. Nice paint, supergo did a good job, except for the guy i talked to on the phone, he had zero patience and i didn't ask him any stupid questions either. Very nice bike, can't go wrong for $330 | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ken Smith
a weekend warrior
from Tucson,az
Date Reviewed: August 28, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just recieved the S-works M2 from Supergo. I am very pleased with the Supergo service that I have heard nothing but bad about. The craftmanship on the frame is excellent. The threads were perfect on the bottom bracket, and the head set perfectly faced. Supergo just got a fan for life. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
kwun
a cross-country rider
from PA
Date Reviewed: July 30, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Ignoring whatever the previous reviewer said..............I too got the s-works M2 frame through the supergo deal. what an AWESOME frame. it is light and stiff and climbs like crazy. absolutely no flexes: perfect power transfer. sure it is a bit tough to the back end, but it is bearable. besides, unless you are on a full-susp, your should probably take your butt off the saddles on bumpy downhills anyway.as for workmanship, the welds are extremely well done, i have owned GT and 'dale frames before. in comparison, the welds on the s-works are like art work. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
LESLIE ARBOUIN
a cross-country rider
from COLOMBIA
Date Reviewed: July 30, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
La Specialized Stumpjumper con el marco M2 es lo mejor !!!
La tengo hace 1 año, con una suspensión XC grupo Shimano XT.
Tengo el marco además acompañado de unas hermosas Spinergy, que le dan un no se que ....
Me encanta su geometria y la forma en que responde en los peores momentos. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shawn
a cross-country rider
from Maryland
Date Reviewed: July 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The Specialized M2 frame is very nice. I just got a great deal from Super-Go. I recieved the frame about two weeks ago and have riden it for about a week now. I love this frame. When I went to build up the bike I enjoyed the nicely faced headset (that's right I didn't have to face the headset) and a well tapped BottomBracket. This was a nice surprise, and saved some time in the building process. Last weekend was the bike's maiden voyage. I the local race course and the bike rocked. I enjoyed the geometry of the frame. I found it more comfertable then any other frame I own. Then bike felt good out of the sadle during steep climbs. There was little crank induced frame flex, which I love. My only gripe is the rear seat stays. My XT v-brakes are very mushy because the stays bend like a wet noodle. I'm in the process of getting a XTR brake booster, which I'm told by Specialized will solve this problem. This is a great frame, and worth the $300 it cost. If you plan on having a shop install all your parts look into spending another $100, thank god I'm a bike mechanic. In addition to the cost of installation I spent $60.00 on a new XTR F. Derailure (my other bike used a 1.25 clamp) the stumpy uses a 1 and 3/8 clamp. I replaced the stock seat post with a syncros oversized seat post. And bought a RaceFace Taper lock BB. Other then that I got bored and got a new fork (sx ti). My over all rating has got to be 5 stars, cause its my baby and I love it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul
a cross-country rider
from London, England
Date Reviewed: July 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Sorry for the confusion on the weight (and for using this as a discussion group) - should have explained better and got the weigth right I suppose. I use a fairly trick fixed carbon fork (which is actually a modified road fork) which weighs in at just over 1lb for climbing BIG hills and the frame plus fork weighs about 4.5 lbs (appologies Rick from Denver). Yes of course fitting a suspension fork (even a Rock Shox SID at 2.5lbs) will put the frame + fork to 6 lbs plus. Warning though using a fixed fork (even a cromo) will kick the hell out of you after a while if your going downhill or XC for any distance. So again if you want to travel distance buy a good sus fork! Still 5 of the best though as it climbs like mad. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Flyfisher
a weekend warrior
from Vancouver, BC
Date Reviewed: July 16, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I just got the Stumpjumper frame on the Supergo deal. I have to say that I have no regrets and I am quite impressed with its performance.Like everybody says, it climbs very well. I had a high-end steel bike before, but this thing can profoundly outclimb it. Of all the things that this bike does, it feels most comfortable when climbing. I even look forward to the climbs now!On the singletrack it reacts very quickly and positively, and can handle the steeps and dropoffs that we have up here in the northwest.I love the light weight of it and the beautiful welds and gussets.
Five Chili's | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rick
a cross-country rider
from Denver, CO
Date Reviewed: July 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Forgot to put my name on my July 6th rating of the M2. Guess I'll have to rate it again -- that is O.K. since we have two M2s at home. I just have to comment on the weight that is rumored to be 3.5 with fork. No. That would mean, even assuming a SID on front, that the frame only weighs 1 pound! HA! Sorry, that just isn't so - but 3.5 for the frame alone is pretty darn good. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul
a cross-country rider
from London, England
Date Reviewed: July 8, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Had an S Works M2 for 1 month now. It's the fastest thing on 2 wheels up a hill! Yeh OK it's stiff but that's what you need for serious climbing. I've ridden some Alu hardtails that can kill you at 20 paces and this is way better. It's probably better than any other Alu hardtail frame on the market - in fact it's closer to a carbon or ti frame but not quite as supple as steel - hey but why do you think it only weighs 3.5lbs with the fork! If you want to put some serious miles in fit a light front suspension fork and some decent 2.1 tyres (Wildgripper Sprints do the trick for me) as they take out most of the harshness - and watch the full suspension boys disappear backwards at the 1st big climb. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chris richard
a weekend warrior
from norman,ok. usa
Date Reviewed: July 7, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
it's a pretty cool looking frame and it is hard to believe that it only weighs 3.5 lbs with front suspension, but it is still coll because specialized rules!
The only thing they need to do is change the name because they always had cool names and now with something like m2 they are starting to sound like trek or some poser company like that | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nelson
a cross-country rider
from arlington,va
Date Reviewed: July 6, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I got this frame second hand for $200. All my previous frames were steel, and this frame was stiffer than all of them. I have done trials on it with no problem. I have an 18 inch which is more like a 17 inch. Put a short stem and a riser bar on it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
James Brunsch
a racer
from San Diego, Ca
Date Reviewed: June 20, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I owned the 95 stumpjumer for 3 brutal years. I beat that frame hard and it finally failed at the top tube and seat tube joint. I say this frame is very worthy especially if you get the 96 and newer frames where these critical joints are double butted. The only other bad point is the slightly high wieght. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
IQ
a cross-country rider
from TX
Date Reviewed: June 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
have gotten alot of people asking me how I thougt my upgrade went and have replied to about 10 emails - here is the last email I sent out...
First of all Yes I Am Happy I Bought it...Well I sure get alot oh awe's on the trails! At first I thought it was not much stiffer... at least till i cracked my seat!!! My climbing has Improved... Went to forest ridge all last week (some of the best riding in Texas) and kicked some behind on all the climbs... although my butt hurts some (never replaced seat) I am really glad I made the switch... you will have to get use to the new stearing angle but you will get adjusted to it... I feels like a bmx bike with gears (I got the 15 to have a couple inches of clearence)This frame is defintely stronger than my old a1FS frameset. It is pretty cool but if your happy with your frame and nothing is wrong with it why bother? If your buying it to change sizes then cool... If your buying it to save weight then eat lettuce and run your butt around the block a few times... If you got some extra cash and want a really cool looking frame then it must be nice to be you! For me I am happy I made my purchase and wont be upgrading any time soon... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
tone dog
a racer
from ny
Date Reviewed: June 15, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had this s-works frame for three weeks and all I can say is it is the best. I can climb up the swiss alps on this baby. I find this frame to be strong and able to handle ten foot drop offs with no problem. High end steel dents and ti costs to dam much. The S is the real deal! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Stephen Cooper
a racer
from New Jersey
Date Reviewed: June 12, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Ho, sh*t! The S-Works frame is absolutely magic! Buy one of these from Supergo before they're sold out. Beg or borrow the 400 bucks (don't steal it) and get one. I mean it: this frame is *that* good...and that price is a steal.Upside: light, efficient, stiff, easy to throw around, feels just right.
Downside: get out of the saddle on choppy stuff, or get beat up.
Sum total: one of the very best hardtails. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
norm
a cross-country rider
from atlanta GA
Date Reviewed: June 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have about 800 miles on this bike and have no major complaints exept that some of the components on the base model stumpjumper are not cut out for the kind of riding i do (singletrack, roots, rocks, punishing descents with all of the previously mentioned). the shocks where the first to go- I replaced the innards of the manitou pro with englund air cartridges. the wheels are next- the hubs are OK but the spokes and rims are heavy and not very durable. then some of the things like the seat and the handlebar and the seatpost will go but I am not in a rush unless i break something soon. this is a GREAT frame and a GOOD bike- five chilis. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael Parrish
a cross-country rider
from Middletown, MD
Date Reviewed: June 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
My 1997 StumpJumper M2 is definitely a phat ride! Although I know nothing about suspension those Answer Manitou Pro shocks really soften the ride. This ride has really made me love Mountain Biking and I have no complaints. Well actually, the seat could e a little softer but who's really sitting down anyway? I give the Stumpy 4 stars baby. She's a quality bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
IQ
a cross-country rider
from TX
Date Reviewed: May 26, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a 97 S-Works team edition.. I previously had a rockhopper a1fs (aluminium) and bought this frame so I could have alot more clearence (Great for jumping) I must say I cannot tell that it is any stiffer than my old rockhopper and that it weighs in only a 1/2 pound lighter... but if your looking for an upgrade... THIS IS IT! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brad
a cross-country rider
from MA
Date Reviewed: May 20, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Got a 95 Specilized M2 Team frame with a FSR carbon fork made for Specilized by Rock Shok and all XT componets. This bike has treated me with too many smiles for the past 3 years. Totally kicks butt, the front fork is point an shoot to where you want to climb or descend. Frame is o so light and quick for the sweet single track in New England. I would and have recommended the M2 to anyone seeking to be happy. Keep ridin. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Johnson
a cross-country rider
from New jersey USA
Date Reviewed: May 19, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Amazing frame! I have never seen so much more detail put into a frame. The replaceable rear derailluer dropout is a god send. This frame literally shoots up hills. It is unstopable, and the weight is amazing. If you mess up going up a hill, it isn't the frame, it is your riding or the parts. The M2 frame has saved my ass so many times in races going up hills. DEMAND M2
one flaw though, it is stiff as hell. But, of course, this is a trade. A stiff frame is great for the hills, sucks for the downhills. I will take stiff for hills anyday, you can always buy a plusher fork or a suspension seatpost. :) | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
XC-Man
a cross-country rider
from ny
Date Reviewed: May 13, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I was able to get in on the Supergo deal. The price for a s-works m-2 was The Supergo deal was $398.00 for the frame and $743.00 for the frame 98 Manitiu SXC-Ti TPC fork, FSA Ordit headset and Tahoma stem. They removed the ad after three days or so because of heavy volume. I think its more like Specialised did not like seeing there frames being offered at such a low price. I got one and its suppossed to come by the end of May. I hope it does because that was one rad deal on one of the best hard tails on the market. (Remember with supergo the proces are great but the service is not.) That s-works frame kicks ass, now I won't have to beg and plead to ride my friend Tim's bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
single track dude
a weekend warrior
from NY
Date Reviewed: May 9, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
About two weeks ago, I caught an ad for Specialized M2 frames at some insane price like $329 on the supergo site. When I went
back the next day, the ad was gone. On the phone, they'll only say that the sale is upcoming and to keep checking the web site,
etc. Did anyone out there get one? Anyone know what's going on there? Supergo is famous for killer deals---I got a Manitou Stroker
for $198---so I don't want to miss out on an M2 deal.
single track dude. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mathias
a cross-country rider
from Vermont
Date Reviewed: May 5, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
After upgrading to M2 from a cro-mo frame, I would say it was definitley worth it. The new bike has inspired me to ride much more than before. The geometry is excellent, I would never dream of hurdling the handle bars ( oh, maybe that's just my irresponsible, teenage reckless side speaking). This summer I plan on upgrading components a little, and then racing the hell out of it.
I love my bike. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brad Pilling
a cross-country rider
from Calgary, Alberta
Date Reviewed: May 3, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
I purhcased a 97 s-works butted M2 frame in the fall of 1997. After three years on full suspension, I was concerned about adjusting to the stiff ride. Nothing doing. I love the ride. The frame is so efficient in transfering your pedal power. This frame climbs like Jack the Bear. My aspirations for a titanium frame are slowly going away. I am 6'2 AND WEIGH 175 LBS and can recommend the frame to anyone. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
E Ward
a cross-country rider
from Tauranga, New Zealand
Date Reviewed: April 6, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
Ive had the M2 for eight months and it's already passed its limits. It loves the
tracks in Rotorua and cries out for bigger jumps. First class riding always. If you are looking for a framr that knows where you want to go then this is your dream come true. It's time to 'Rock 'n' Ride'. Definately five Jalapeno's. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ed Gomez
a weekend warrior
from L.A., CA
Date Reviewed: April 1, 1998 | | Bottom Line: |
The M2 frame is fast, stiff, and light. It loves to go fast over technical terrain and begs to be ridden fast. I'm a 205 lb. rider, and I've pushed the M2 frame beyond its limits, and it just came back begging for more. Sure titanium frames are cool, and so is OCLV, but you can't beat a STUMPY!!! Oh, and the climbing...oh so effortless. One thing though, I get too much flex with the Specialized cranks! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JR Fisher
a cross-country rider
from Blacksburg, VA
Date Reviewed: December 5, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I've spent a few months on my '97 M2 Comp and it just seems to get better. It is a little harsh for downhill, but it makes up for it on the climbs. I friend of mine has a '93 Team frame and aside from some paint chips that thing is still going hard. The big red S is the way to go!!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Levent Chen
a cross-country rider
from Asheville, NC
Date Reviewed: November 21, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
All-in-all I think this is an excellent frame (geometry wise) which outperforms other frames I have ridden, including Trek hardtails and Y-bikes as well as a Fisher Paragon. I have not experienced the problem with the frame cracking (thankfully) but the possiblity of this happening makes me wary. Other than that the only thing I can fault is the extremely harsh ride this thing gives, yet easily solved with a Syncros Ti post. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Ziaskas
a cross-country rider
from San Diego, CA
Date Reviewed: October 29, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Had the chance to demo a s works bike at Moab from the Manitou folks (thanks). Did Porcupine Rim loop which exposes a bike and rider to just about every thing. Christ, where have I been. The bike felt like I was born with it under my ass. At 22.5 lbs. the thing climbed like a homesick squirrel but the decent is what was amazing (no doubt the top end Manitou helped). Everything was predictable. All that XTR stuff worked flawlessly also. Another thing I liked was the new Dirt Control tires---seemed to stick to everything. Well, found one in the local shop identical to the one I rode and the ol ti wonder bike is on the block. I got a stash of old savings bonds that i'll be a cahsin in tomorrow. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
edward
a weekend warrior
from L.A. Calif
Date Reviewed: October 29, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I had a '94 for 3yrs w/no prob. totally fell in love w/the frame till i broke off the seat tube at the top tube! Spec. came thru for REAL!!!!!!, sent me a '96 frame +fork within 3wks thru my LBS
I love it, but wanted an SWorks frame so I bought one and it, like the others, is TOTALLY the SHIT!!!!! it tracks so sweet, it flys uphills and bombs down 'em. Absolutely the best HT for the $ you can find. Whole bike w/ nice parts weighed less than 24lbs.can't say enough 'bout it and the weld problems are fixed now so go get one!!!!!!
PS I'm selling the frame I got from Spec. under warrantee cuz I bought the SWORKS frame and I need to fund the FS bike I Need!!!! Check it out in the Mrktplce section, posted by edgy on 10/28 97 | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul Runcy
a cross-country rider
from Austin, TX
Date Reviewed: October 27, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I really Love this frame! I had always ridden steel frames but I wants to buy a a lighter, stiffer frame. As I didn't have the money for custom, I got the Specialized M2 Comp, and I've never been happier! I agree that the paint is a little thin and chips too easy, but other than that it's great. I broke two steel frames before this one (I'm and agressive 195lbs rider) and have yet to damage anything on this bike. I have the only frame I'd consider after this one is my friends Spooky that has a higher bottom bracket, but then again, he was working for Spooky at the time and I don't have that amount of $$$$ yet! Give the M2 5 chilies!
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bob Ebbeka
a racer
from Lincoln, Nebraska
Date Reviewed: October 25, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have had a 97 Stumpjumper M2 Pro for about 9 months and I think its really a great bike for the value. Although the paint quality is pretty bad, the paint seems very thin and chips and scratches with no effort. Overall, killer climber, and that so sweet feel Specialized has always been able to put into there Stumpjumpers. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Duke
a cross-country rider
from Philippines
Date Reviewed: October 25, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I take 1 chili off my earlier review. The seat clamp on my m2 broke when I was tightening it. Thought I torqued it too hard but I later found out two of my buddies had the same problem. One of them even had a bad cut as a result of the clamp snapping all of a sudden. And to compound the problem, my local bike shop charged me $25 for a replacement. The M2's still a great bike however so 1 chili less should be reasonable. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris McDowell
a weekend warrior
from Hampden-Sydney College, VA
Date Reviewed: October 6, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
There is no other frame on the face of the earth better for the price of the M2. I have a 96 Stumpjumper, and its awesome. Its lightweight, climbs great, and flys downhill. This is my first Specialized. I've riden Treks, Gary Fishers, and Cannondales, but none have handled as well as the M2. The M2 is a bike for people who want a lightweight high performance bike. However, you materialistic wanna be's out there would rather fork out more money for a name like Trek or Cannondale when you could own the best bargain in mountain biking for several hundred less. The M2 ROCKS! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Robb Gibson
a cross-country rider
from Tucson, AZ
Date Reviewed: September 20, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Specialized M2, 1996
For a mass-produced frame, specialized has taken extreme care. A bike that does not do one thing great but does all things well. Light and spritely on the ups and a snowball down. Great spec on the 96, but some swag has to be implemented. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
WINSTON
a weekend warrior
from OAKLAND CA
Date Reviewed: September 18, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
A very nice frame that I would recogmend to anyone. I have the s-works frame and it make the steepest sections feel easy. The frame is light weight and pretty forgiving compared to a alu frame. The paint is a little fragile but most production paint is so no real complaint there. The bike just has a good overall feel that allows me to feel in control on the trail. What more can I say. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Pissed Off M2 Owner
a racer
from San Jose, CA
Date Reviewed: August 26, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I think the M2 is a great frame; it's stiff and responsive. As an added bonus, it's pretty nice to get updated with the most recent geometry every 3 years. You see, I started with a 91 that cracked at the top-tube to seat-tube weld (see all the other reviews). After this suprising discovery, I went through the hassle of dealing with Specialized to get a 94 warranty frame, which supposedly solved the welding problem. Of course there was the financial burden of replacing miscellaneous non-compatible components. A couple of weeks ago, I noticed that my 94 broke in the same spot as my 91, ... hmmm. I'm supposedly getting a 97, but there is apparently no rear deraileur hangers on the planet, so I have to wait indefinitely. It only gets worse, I now have to replace my 1 steer tube/crown/stantion tube set up on my Judy SL with a 1 1/8 set up, for the low-low price of $240. If you figure in the stem, seat post and headset, I'm in for at least $500. I would give this frame 5 chilis, regardless of the cracking problems, if Specialized would reasonably support their customers who use their products for what they're supposedly designed. Instead, I get the feeling that they're too busy pushing their low-end bikes on all those extreme wanna-be's who couldn't even use a Huffy to its full potential. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave VanderWiel
a racer
from Ames, Iowa
Date Reviewed: August 25, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I recently
stripped the threads on the BB shell while removing the BB (no fault of mine).
The creaking afterwards was unbearable. Although Specialized is giving me a
new frame under warranty - I still have to take away a chili for the problem
in the first palce, along with the fact that it's taken THREE MONTHS to get my
new frame (I'm still waiting)... | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Darby Marshall
a cross-country rider
from Salinas, CA
Date Reviewed: August 24, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I'm on my second thrashed M2 frame. The first time was a 94 that cracked at the seat tube - top tube weld. It took about eight weeks of me and the shop calling to get it warrentied and i personally knew four other riders who had the same failure on that bike. For the first six weeks they insisted that they never received the frame even though we had the UPS shipping number and who signed for it at Specialized. You'd think Specialized would clue in that there was a problem and turn around warrenties faster.The second time was in the Sierras above Huntington Lake. I bent the frame at the derailler drop out when the piece did not break as Todd at Specialized told me it was supposed to do. This time they are only willing to do a crash replacement $300 for this frame - way over priced for the customer service and failure rate. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
brian
a weekend warrior
from Tennessee
Date Reviewed: August 22, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have a '96 S-works M2 Super and as the name suggests THIS FRAME
IS DA BOMB!!! I still have a few component upgrades in mind, but so far
the bike has been perfection on the trails.Climbing is a breeze, however;
going down(especially on rough terrain) takes a bit of time to get used too.
If you ever have the chance this is THE hardtail frame to have!! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joe
a racer
from Minneapolis Mn
Date Reviewed: July 30, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
A good frame. Very, very quick in tight areas and up hills. Very stiff. Specialized needs to work on their quality control, however. My first 97 S-works frame had an alignment problem, the rear triangle was off beyond tolerance by 4mm. While my replacement is solid, the top gusset was welded off to the side. It looks sloppy. I need to thank Dave at Eriks for getting me a replacement so quickly. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nelson Ho
a cross-country rider
from Summit County, COLORADO
Date Reviewed: July 5, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Who says that big mass-production companies can't put out great frames? My M2 frame rulez! Yeah. I got that 96 baby/powder blue (whatever you wanna call it) colored frame. My friends make fun of me for the color. So what! They are all just jealous that I got such a kind ride. I blow them away on any climb. Way stiff. If you like your bike to respond to every little muscle twitch, this is the bike to get! If your skeletal joints are not in good shape, stay away from this one. It will jar you loose. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
gary
a cross-country rider
from gunnison, CO
Date Reviewed: July 1, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Received the new team frame after my 94 cracked at the seattube weld. They say the frame has slightly different angles but I'm not sure if I can tell. Only two complaints: I had to buy a new front XT der. (couldn't use my XTR nor afford a new XTR) and am having to use the incredibly harsh seatpost instead of my Dean because the frame is bigger than the 94 S works. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JR Fisher
a cross-country rider
from Hatfield, PA
Date Reviewed: June 28, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I went from a '93 steel Stump' and I just got a '97 M2 Stump' and this is big smiles all around! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kevin
a cross-country rider
from Holland
Date Reviewed: June 16, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I already posted a review on my stumpjumper M2 a while ago. I gave my frame five stars. Yesterday I discovered that a crack had develloped in the seat tube. I'm a very light rider (60 kg), and I always thougt this frame was indestructable, but apparently I was wrong. Specialized hasn't been able to solve the welding problem with the M2 aluminium after all, cause my frame is cracking at the weld. A four year old frame shouldn't break under my weight, should it? I got a five year warranty on the frame, so I should get a new one. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brad Grace
a weekend warrior
from Madison, Wi.
Date Reviewed: May 22, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I've owned my m2 for a year and I love it, I just added a 2 rise bar, looks goofy but improved my riding alot. Bike is now much more comfortable on long rides. It now reminds me of the BMX bikes I used to ride. Thanks Specialized! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jae H. Chi
a cross-country rider
from Alexandria, VA USA
Date Reviewed: May 22, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I love the bike for what it can do. It is an excellent deal. I sort of wish I had bought S-works. My crank keeps coming undone. I need to retorque it after every ride. The rear derailer hanger is great - crashed and bent it. I was able to straighten it back. The derailer did not sustain any damage, except for some
cosmetic stuff. Love the XTR rear derailer.
| | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
retro boys son in-law
a racer
from Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: May 8, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I've had this bike for almost two years now.LET ME SAY FOR THE RECORD THAT IT LICKS ASS! It's stiff light and strong.
It' sa very fast and technical bike, and well worth the money. The only two complaints are this: When the deraillur hanger bent I had a hell of a time finding one, but I have to admit that was
more the falt of the shop(they were real snobs). The other one being was that the rear brake boss snapped. Luckily all I had to do was
unscrew it and get a new one. I had to wait a week, so no big deal. If your looking for a serious off-road race contender, look no further.
SPECIALIZED STUMPJUMPER RULES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'D GIVE THIS BIKE A TEN STAR! | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brad
a cross-country rider
from Hammond Louisiana
Date Reviewed: April 18, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I have owned a Cannondale hardtail, a GT Zaskar, a full-suspension bicycle, and the stuntjumper S-works M2 blows them all away. This bike devours the swampy technical singletrack found in Louisiana. Frame is super stiff, long top tube and unique head tube angle make the bike the bike quick handling and nimble. This frame is as good as a hardtail gets. If it is good enough for Ned Overend and Bart Brentjens it is goog enough for me. Nuff said. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Boney Ass
a weekend warrior
from another universe
Date Reviewed: March 31, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
This frame is very hard on my little 'ol ass. Cool for Hi-Testostorone racers but I prefer the sweet give of my DBR Axis Ritchey tube set. The bright blue of the '96 makes it look like a toy bike but it feels like a rock. The M2 is the definition of STIFF, not a dishy bike to muck around on. But it fills a much needed niche so I can't bag it because it is very good for what it is. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
glenn
a racer
from North jersey
Date Reviewed: March 15, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
I owned a Stumpjumper M2, now I got a S-Works M2, and I Love the ride, the only bike Ive ridden and liked the ride more is the F-2000 from Cannondale but then ya
stck wit tha headshock bullshit. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave C
a cross-country rider
from New York , NY
Date Reviewed: February 7, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
This frame is definitely comp level. Stiff as hell, with a tiny amount of give. It sort feels like a damn hard piece of rubber, real hard. Its a good climber and overall quality is very good. At 3.5lbs. its pretty light. The only problem I can see, beside it being a little harsh, is that, the stiffness makes it skittish at very high speeds over continuous bumps (ie 30+mph). But like I said great comp level frame, not for posers. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alec ODoherty
a racer
from T-Bay Ontario Canada
Date Reviewed: January 17, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
The M2 is unquestionably the most superior singletrack racer in existance, it
climbs like it has a motor attached and the frame gives just enough to take the edge off those rocks and roots. However the frame is not perfect, I find that on
moderate to steep descents the bike feels unstable and overly twitchy it also has a tendancy to drift when speeds increase to 30 miles an hour or so. If you live in a singletrack layden area and want a bike that can perform when
the going gets rough the M2 is the bike for you. If you are a speed demon do
not even consider it. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brendon Shelton
a
from weekend warrior
Date Reviewed: January 17, 1997 | | Bottom Line: |
Had a '94 stump. M2FS. I broke the top tube on a routine XC trip in Dallas(Grapvine). Specialized replaced this with a brand new COMP frame
and even threw in a 96 XT front der. for free! Appearantly they were experiencing bad welds on earlier M2's but one look at the quality of weld on the new one puts this problem to rest. I thrash all over the bay area now(both
XC and city riding) and have experienced no probs. Frame is stiff as @#*!# but
overall it's all good. | | Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Thad
a cross-country rider
from Chico
Date Reviewed: December 2, 1996 | | Bottom Line: |
S-Works M2:Excellent fit and finish on this one. Coming over from a Cannondale (Stolen) I am quite impressed. Geometry is excellent and the top tube is long enough for me (6' tall) to feel comfortable with while not having to resort to too long a stem.Incredibly stiff and exceptionally light - total bike with cages/bottles/bar ends, etc... is just a tick over 24 pounds!Not a frame for a lightweight rider! This frame punishes my backside, and I'm 200lbs, but stays spot on course through the roughest terrain and really seems to kepp the tire down on the trail. | | Overall Rating: |
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