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Specialized
Epic Comp Disc
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Submitted by
MRB
a Weekend Warrior
from Santiago, Chile
Date Reviewed: May 20, 2009 | | Favorite Trail: | Precordillera Peñalolen - La Florida | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2700.00 | | Strengths: | Great climber, confortable riding position, good quality components. Superfast in downhill sections. The inertia valve is awesome, when it works. | | Weaknesses: | Brain is a very sensitive device, which doesn't give confidence, two fails in six months. | | Similar Products Used: | This is my first full suspension bike, before that, Trek 6000 hardtail and older Bianchi models. | | Bike Setup: | Standard Epic Comp components. | | Bottom Line: | I have changed from a hardtail to this full suspension bike, the difference is noticeable and I'm very happy with the change. This bike has great traction in climbs and a well balanced geometry, it really feels comfortable when climbing. I've needed some time to get used to downhill in this bike, it is scary fast and I feel it a bit nervous. With this bike, I've really improved my riding and been able to conquer trails I couldn't before.
The suspension is great and brain works as adveritsed, but the problem is that the inertia valve is very prone to failure. In six months I've already changed a complete shock under garantee and now I have problems with the new one. For somre reason the dial that controls the brain sensibility sticks and doesn't let you change it anymore. In very disapointed at this point, people from Specialized have been very responsive but this is a very worriying situation. I simple want a working sistem rather than heving to ask for garantee each three months.
Great bike, hadn't brain problems it would be five chilis | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JRose
a Cross Country Rider
from Denver, CO
Date Reviewed: April 27, 2009 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$3100.00 | | Strengths: | mmmm Brain, Fox 100RL is like butta, Avid Elixir's are sweeeet (and only available on Specializeds) | | Weaknesses: | ? you got me... | | Similar Products Used: | Trek EX8, gary Fisher HiFi | | Bike Setup: | Fox 100RL front, Spec. Brain, Avid Elixir discs, SRAM X.9 rear der. w/ X.7 shifters... all 2009 stock | | Bottom Line: | I am reviewing the new 2009 Specialized Epic Comp.
Oh man, I used to ride and XC race on hardtails, and I imagine this is about as close as you can get with a dual suspension bike. I have only taken in out a few times, but it is sweet! I am a big fan of the riding position on this bike since it is much more aggressive than the Trek EX8 or Fisher's HiFi line. The Epic is definitely more of a straight up cross country speed and technical rider's bike than the aforementioned two. If you are looking for an all mountain bike, the Epic with 100mm travel front and back may not be for you. I was kind of skeptical as to how well the Brain system would work, but surprise surprise... it worked amazingly well. The 09 frame/rear suspension design is different than the 08, with the shock positioned in the main triangle. I imagine this balances the weight and center of gravity a bit better than having the shock positioned on the off side of the rear triangle like the 2008 models did.
I have heard of some people having trouble in the past with the Avid Juicy discs, and I imagine that's why Specialized has gone to a custom Avid Elixir Disc brake (front and rear) on the new 2009 bikes. The Elixir brakes are indeed really nice and powerful. I haven't had one ounce of trouble with the brakes or the suspension yet. I have been riding this bike on Front Range trails in CO which involve a lot of climbing and some fast and rocky technical terrain. This bike handles all of the above like a dream. Coming from riding a hardtail, my biggest concern was with climbing, but this bike climbs like a dream and will take nothing away from you on the uphill.
Basically seems like Specialized has addressed problems on older models to make the 09 epic even better than before (if that is even possible. haha). I love this bike.
Jack
Also, the 2009 Epic comp comes in either a black or red frame which are both way sweeter than the silver '08s! | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Axis_kinG
a Weekend Warrior
from Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
Date Reviewed: September 5, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Moose Trax | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2350.00 | | Purchased At: | Darlings Island Bike | | Strengths: | Climbs great/Great Fork/Nice tires/Frame/brakes | | Weaknesses: | Brakes are loud when wet/Makes a creaking sound when I weave it to the right before riding(?)Don't know why this is/Rear shock's dustcatcher(stanchion seal) Came loose TWICE. Could not be more disappointed with this. | | Similar Products Used: | Oryx Hurricane 250 (full suspension) | | Bike Setup: | Fox F100RL/Fox Brain Shock with Float R/Avid Juicy 5's/X-9 shifter | | Bottom Line: | Ok I've only owned this bike for a month, but it's spent more time in the shop than I have had to use it. The rear shock's dustcatcher (stanchion seal) came loose TWICE. Not the fault of me riding but the fault of a poorly maintained shock. I had no idea it needed the correct type of oil since I used the *very same shock as my previous bike* and did not have this problem. So here I am using my old bike as a replacement and my new one that I paid out my ass for is sitting in the shop like a piece of meat on a hook. It's a great bike when it WORKS, this could just be the works of FOX. Great bike, bad shock experience. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
abikerider
a Cross Country Rider
from Sacramento, CA
Date Reviewed: June 12, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Hole In The Ground | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Garage | | Bottom Line: | This is a follow up to my post below. After rebuilding the rear caliper and lever with new seals myself and realizing that the lever pivot pin set screw should not be tightened all the way, the rear brake now feels like new. Either the seals were defective or my mechanic used the wrong fluid and damaged the seals. I'm just happy to have my bike back on the trails. For more detail about how I fixed it see my review of the Avid juicy 5. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Schoellkopf
a Cross Country Rider
from Sacramento, CA
Date Reviewed: April 29, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Hole In The Ground | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Garage in Fremont, CA | | Strengths: | Great climber, great handling, excellent Fox fork, good mix of components, cool anodized blue color. | | Weaknesses: | Hard as rock saddle and the stem was too short (80 or 90mm) on the medium model; both easily remedied. The rear juicy 5 disk brake has been problematic. After a few months it stopped retracting all the way and was rubbing the rim very badly. After replacing it under warranty the same thing happened. Now I have moved and can't take it back to the original shop for warranty work. I've decided to give the juicy's one last chance by buying the rubber seals and replacing them all. I am disappointed in the brakes to say the least but this was not Specialized's fault. | | Similar Products Used: | Santa Cruz Hecker X, my first dual suspension: not a very efficient climber and the rear suspension was effectively locked out under hard braking. I still liked to ride it though. I also test rode Santa Cruz blur which I didn't think climbed well while standing up. Demo'ed a Trek liquid which ate boulders as if they were pebbles but didn't climb well while standing. | | Bike Setup: | Stock 2005 set up with the exception of a new saddle, 100mm Weyless stem, Weyless carbon riser hanlebars, and Crank Bros. pedals. | | Bottom Line: | The only full suspension bike I found that was light enough and could climb out of the saddle without bobbing. Great handling and overall quality with the exception of the defective Avid juicy 5 rear disk brake. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Guy
a Cross Country Rider
from UK/Cambodia
Date Reviewed: February 18, 2008 | | Favorite Trail: | Bokor Mountain | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | Tay Junction, Singapore | | Strengths: | - Excellent ride - feels like a hard-tail, but has the traction and control of full suspension.
- Top-notch stock components, particularly the fork.
- The Brain Fade simply works. You don't notice the rear shock until you need it.
- 3 bottle cage mounts. Fabulous if don't get on with Camelbaks
- Stellar after-sales service from Specialized UK
| | Weaknesses: | - Hair-trigger SRAM Front Mech Shifter.
- Various problems with the Avid Juicy Fives
- Flaky seat-post clamp
- Stock tyres (Specialized Fast Track) don't like mud
- Stock bars are a bit on the wide side for technical single track | | Similar Products Used: | - Gary Fisher Sugar
- Gary Fisher HiFi
- Specialized Stumpjumper FSR
- Santa Cruz Superlight | | Bike Setup: | All stock. See www.specialized.com for the details - it's the 2007 Epic Comp. | | Bottom Line: | The review below is spot on - if you're looking for an armchair, the Epic isn't the ride for you. It's very stiff, and most of the time you'll be wondering if the rear shock is actually there. Then you check the o-ring on the shock after a ride and see you've used the full range.
Coming from 16 years of riding mostly rigid bikes (and the occasional hard tail) this was perfect for me.
The stock set-up is excellent, but next time I would spec a Shimano shifter for the (Shimano LX) front mech - the SRAM push-push system leads to accidental down-shifts on bumpy descents.
The Avid Juicy Fives have been disappointing. They stop the bike, but it's heinously difficult to change the pads. You have to take off the IS/Post adapters to do the job. I've had some low-speed brake judder despite making sure disc torque was correct. And long, wet descents have resulted in shredded pads and warped rotors - though I suspect other brakes might have gone the same way.
I'm a long way from the nearest proper bike shop, but Specialized UK have been wonderful with advice both by email and over the phone. They offered to change the Avids for any other brake, free of charge, and have given many useful answers to even the silliest questions.
This is by far the most I have spent on a new bike - no regrets. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brian
a Weekend Warrior
from Raynham Mass
Date Reviewed: October 19, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Massasoit State Pk, Middleboro MA | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | Classifieds | | Strengths: | -Reliable drivetrain, Brakes are crisp, front fork is great and brain does what its supposed to. | | Weaknesses: | -This is marketed as a full suspension bike, but you need to know that it does not offer all that "plush" of a ride. It does exactly what it you want if you want to be fast and efficient on the trail. This bike is like having a nice hardtail that softens from time to time, climbs excellent, and uses ever ounce of energy you put into the cranks. | | Similar Products Used: | 2006 Specialized FSR XC | | Bike Setup: | -Stock, with some specialized bar ends and cranbrothers candy pedals. | | Bottom Line: | -This is all the bike I will ever need, or want. I was a fan of the FSR xc becuase if offered a plush feel over terrain, but now that I realized how much more efficient this bike is and how much faster I am...I wouldn't trade it for anything. Again, if you want to have all the benefits of a great hardtail with excellent components, that softens when you wish it would the technology of this bike is for you. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt Cornell
a Cross Country Rider
from Amherst, MA, USA
Date Reviewed: July 26, 2007 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1900.00 | | Purchased At: | Competitive Edge, Hadley MA | | Bottom Line: | This is an update of my 7/20/2007 review regarding brakes. Turns out I've had serious trouble with the rear brake: It was making a horrendous racket - like gravel grinding on the rotor. Removed the pads, inspected them and the rotor - looked fine - and brought it back to the dealer today. Long story short, the Avid Juicy pads are CRAP. They replaced them with EBCs, which fixed the problem. Now I have to go back and do the front (started grinding badly).
The bike is very nice (I've ridden it a few more times), great balance, fun on XC, but the brake hassles aren't good. Downgrading review to 5/4. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt Cornell
a Cross Country Rider
from Amherst, MA
Date Reviewed: July 20, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Bachelor Street, Granby MA | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1900.00 | | Purchased At: | Competitive Edge, Hadley MA | | Strengths: | *Terrific* bike! Fast, great acceleration, climbs like a dream, and the full suspension works as promised. | | Weaknesses: | Useless grips, average pedals (I miss my egg beaters), so-so tires for New England XC, a *tad* heavy in the front (popping a wheelie is slightly more work than I expected), and some brake issues (not fully resolved, but I'm anal so it's probably OK). | | Similar Products Used: | Giant NRS 1 - 2002 model. | | Bike Setup: | Stock, but better grips. | | Bottom Line: | Very, very fun bike. Within one or two rides I was relatively unaware of the bike - just me and the trails. Highly recommended. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt
a Cross Country Rider
from Saramento, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: June 20, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Lollipop Loop (connector + FDLT) | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Mike's Bikes | | Strengths: | Excellent component spec: I love the SRAM shifters (these are my first SRAM shifters/der) and the Juicy 5 brakes. The fork is very plush, even when sag is set to "race" measurements. The shock and brain allow multiple different adjustments to make the bike either hardtail firm or very plush (though I'm a set it and forget it kind of guy). The bike handles very well, though very tight switchbacks are a bit hard to navigate. It climbs very well. On descents, contrary to what I'd read about twitchiness at speed, I've had the bike to about 45 mph and it was still extremely stable. | | Weaknesses: | The brain gives me too many things to fuss with and it took a bit to get the suspension set like I wanted it.
Now that I have such a great bike, I realize it's me that makes me slow, not my bike. | | Similar Products Used: | I compared the Epic to the Stumpjumper and the Canondale Rush. I climbed a 10 story parking garage with each bike, did some dirt riding, some curb hopping, etc on each. The Rush felt very numb in the rear, the Stumpjumper was a bit soft for my taste (too much bob). I only returned from my test ride with a smile on my face after riding the Epic. | | Bike Setup: | XTR Cassette
Salsa flip-off skewers
Fastrak S-works 2bliss (though I'm running tube) rear tire | | Bottom Line: | The Epic is an excellent bike. I love riding it and enjoy mountain biking much more than I ever have in the past. If you are looking for a bike that climbs well and is still plush for descending, and will make you ride fast in all conditions, this is the bike for you. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tom
a Weekend Warrior
from Eau Claire
Date Reviewed: May 6, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Levis mounds | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | The sports den | | Strengths: | Stiff when hammering along, Good specs for price, handles pretty good. | | Weaknesses: | Very heavy for XC race bike. Small bump compliance is non-existant. I have the '03 so I'm told they worked that out on newer models. The stiffness and small bump compliance is a big weakness on steep technical climbs, break traction too much. Hubs are weak. | | Similar Products Used: | Ellsworth epiphany (unbelievable bike which I now own) Cannondale f400 hardtail | | Bike Setup: | Fox rcl 80 fork, xtr rear, Hayes disc brakes, crank brothers eggbeaters, mostly stock | | Bottom Line: | I did like this bike for the first couple years. I have never abused it, but rode hard. This bike is not meant to be ridden like that for four years. I have replaced every single component - chain, rings, cassette, bearings, hub assembly, rear derailer, and still have a bad problem with throwing the chain, It has been to no less than five bike shops and can't seem to find the problem. Any suggestions? Bottom line is, good bike - not the best choice for a everyday cross country trailbike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg
a Cross Country Rider
from Morristown
Date Reviewed: March 23, 2007 | | Favorite Trail: | Pudgy's, Berkshires | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1900.00 | | Purchased At: | Martys Reliable Cycle | | Strengths: | Climbing is a no brainer on this bike. It is also extremely well balance in technical situations. Standover clearance is unreal. Avid Juicy's are excellent. Seat is surprisingly comfortable. | | Weaknesses: | 2.0 tires are wimpy, both size-wise and tread wise. Wheels come with narrow gauge spokes, don't appear beefy enough for technical XC riding. | | Similar Products Used: | Intense Tracer, various C'dale susp bikes, Trek Fuel, various hardtails | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except I am running XT/Sun wheelset with 2.4 Mutano raptor tires. | | Bottom Line: | Excellent bike for long rides in technical terrain. Very efficient climber. The best bike I've ridden in my 17 years of mtn biking. I loved my Tracer before the frame broke, and didn't think I could find a bike that would suit me as well...I was wrong...the Epic rocks. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ken
a Cross Country Rider
from Squamish B.C Canada
Date Reviewed: November 9, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$2800.00 | | Purchased At: | Corsa Cycles | | Strengths: | Excellent climber,when my buddies are spinning out I'm digging in.Deore dscs are awesome,power and modulation.One finger always.Brain has worked flawlessly and incredibly for 2 yrs and for having had the running gear done a couple of times and all the pivots and bearings done the brain just keeps on working like it should. | | Weaknesses: | Bottom bracket hieght is a bit low so you have to finness the cranks sometimes in the choppy slow going.The overall handling of the bike benefits from it,you just have to keep it in mind.I swapped bikes with a buddy who has a etsx70 rocky(also an awesome ride)and he liked the lower center of gravity.The bearing pack and istalation for the back end was a bit pricy 200+ but after 2yrs of punishment its somewhat expected on a fs.Brake system likes pads but for the braking quality I would'nt give them up. | | Similar Products Used: | Test piloted-Rocky ETSX70 and a giant trance.The trance is a nice ride but not in the same league as the others.
| | Bike Setup: | Stockish,put a dean ti seatpost in,xtr rd,fox could'nt rebuild my front shock after I sacked it so I've got a 07 fox vanilla which work well. | | Bottom Line: | Looking for a fsxc ride that has all the atributes of a hard tail but soaks up the bumps when you need it then this ride will rock your trail network,mine still has me smiling when I come home from a few hour hammer in the hills. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Karsten
a Cross Country Rider
from Norway
Date Reviewed: October 28, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2700.00 | | Strengths: | Light, fast and smart. This bike let's the rider stay on the ground and follow the ups and downs, which keeps the momentum flowing. It descends like a God in technical terrain and climbs even better. If the bike is built down to 24-25 lbs, it's probably one of the best XC racer out there. The brain is fabulous. | | Weaknesses: | I don't like the Avid Juicy 5 brakes all that much; the braking is not as efficient as I hoped for. There's a couple of heavy parts as well, but they can easily be replaced. | | Bike Setup: | Stock, but I'm planning a few upgrades to bring the weight down (mine weighs about 26 lbs) | | Bottom Line: | I was looking for an allround bike to replace my hardtail and I had a FS with lock-out on both suspensions in mind before I discovered the epic. I did a lot of research and after trying it myself, the epic truly deserves its reputation of being a super-fast XC bike.
I use the bike for trial and some downhill as well as XC, and I can't wait to compete on it. I'll probably never ride a hardtail again.
I recommend this bike to the competitive racer, as well as the recreational cyclist. It's beautiful, light and comfortable. Want to win races? Try the epic. Want to ride for fun? Try the epic.
The bottom line is: BELIEVE THE HYPE! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alan
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: September 27, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2400.00 | | Purchased At: | Cyclepath-Danforth | | Strengths: | pedalling efficiency, climbing, speed, brain rear suspension, | | Weaknesses: | none so far | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Stumpjumper Pro, Rocky Mountain ETSX, Cannondale Rush 1000 | | Bike Setup: | stock except for Race Face Next XC carbon riser handlebar and Geax Stumpy 2.1 and 2.25 tires | | Bottom Line: | I am a experienced novice rider so take this for what it's worth.
I came close to purchasing the Cannondale as it also rode well and to me looks awesome. I was worried that there were not many Cannondale dealers in the Greater Toronto area and I felt that if it was that good a bike, that more dealers would stock them. The Rocky Mountain also rode well but the day before I was going to make " the big decision" I found on the MTBR forum that the ETSX frame were prone to breaking altough the manufacturer did replace them under warranty.
I found the Specialized Epic rode well, had better pedalling efficiency and easier to do climbs than the Stumpjumper (I know the Stumpjumper has it's place and is an All Mountain bike vs. XC Racer but I won't be doing any crazy jumps over a foot or two). The stock tires worked fine in the limited riding I did before I changed them to Geax Sturdy due to the ratings on this site. Same reason for the handlebar change not to mention my lower back and lower back of the neck (to force my head up to see what's ahead)was killing me in about 5 minutes of riding because of the low racing position. The riser bar is perfect now. The pricing stated is in Canadian dollars and was the end of the season special.
Cyclepath on Danforth Avenue in Toronto was excellent in their Service and Knowledge. Thanks Carlos!
Other notable mentions when I was looking around are Eli from Silent Sports on Doncaster just north of Yonge Street and Steeles Avenue AND Cycle Solutions on Kingston Road near Main Street in the Beach or their other location on Parliament Street in the downtown Toronto area. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rick
a Cross Country Rider
from WestPalmBeach
Date Reviewed: August 20, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | BearCreek, Ellijay, Ga | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$800.00 | | Purchased At: | ebay | | Strengths: | Awesome all around. Climbs like a goat. Fast. Comfortable to ride all day and great suspension. | | Weaknesses: | A little heavy as stock and pricey, but well worth it. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant NRS Air, Stumpjumper | | Bike Setup: | XTR Rear derailer, XTR front derailuer, XTR shifters, Avid Juicy 7 brakes, Mavic Crossland wheelset, Weirwolf tubless tires, Thompson seatpost/stem, and S-Works carbon handelbar. | | Bottom Line: | Badass bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gregory Simpson
a Cross Country Rider
from Lousiville, Kentucky
Date Reviewed: August 7, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | anyone thats good | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1400.00 | | Purchased At: | Bardstown Bike Inc. | | Strengths: | Front Fork. Its so adjustable to fit whatever terrain your goin over. The brain on the back shock is awesome! | | Weaknesses: | If front tire is not put on correctly or in the right spot the brake bad will rub on the disc. The tires on the bike suck in sand and small gravel. It slips quite a bit in that kind of stuff. | | Similar Products Used: | Rockhopper,Trek Fuel 80, Fuji, FSR XC Pro | | Bike Setup: | stock everything for the time being | | Bottom Line: | This bike is pretty much good everywhere you go. I just went to Vermont and rode down a ski slope. There were quite a few large rocks and it floated over those. I was not thrown from my bike once that day. Its a great bike that if you can get a good deal on it its worth it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Christian G
a Racer
from Hudsonville, MI USA
Date Reviewed: July 17, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Yankee Springs | | Duration Product Used: | More than 3 years | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | Cross Country Cycle | | Strengths: | Solid Bike. Excellent front fork, the Brain is amazing. XTR RDR is perfect. Stem length is perfect. Crank has held up great. Wheels have done well considering I weighed 220 pounds when I bought it (now weight 180). I still use the wheels with minimal maintance. Great Bike | | Weaknesses: | Bike is tad heavy. The cranks are great since they have handled my abuse, but I would love to replace them. There is no doubt that this is a racing bike. If your looking for a smooth ride, this is not your bike. I mean its not bad but not like a stumpy.
The one thing I don't like is the LX FDR and the LX shifters. FDR is no real issue, but I dislike the shifters. I think they take to long to engage. Deore Disc Brakes are heavy too, but damn do they work well. | | Similar Products Used: | Rockhopper | | Bike Setup: | Stock except new cassette, carbon handle bars, Ritch WCS seatpost, SRAM chain and Fast Trac tires (although the Roll-X's are incredible tires too) | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike. Since I have increased my racing, I am upgrading to 2007 S-Works as long is they offer a non-carbon version. Not a big carbon frame fan.
This is a phenominal bike and a great value since i bought mine on sale. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob
a Cross Country Rider
from NH
Date Reviewed: July 4, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Anyone I have time to get to | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | $1700 internet | | Strengths: | Great XC racer for those who like to put their head dwon and hammer on the trails. Climbs like a goat and eats up small to medium bumps well. On single track it will go as fast as you have the guts to pedal. | | Weaknesses: | For what you would pay full retail you shouldn't see that much LX stuff on the bike. What is up with the stock tires? I have a road bike that would do better in the sand! Stock stem is too short which makes the bike a bit twitchy. | | Similar Products Used: | Still have my ten year old zaskar which on a smooth trail is as fast or faster than the EPIC | | Bike Setup: | Stock except - XT FR Dearailleur, ODI Rogues, Fire XC Pros, XT shifters and Thomson setback seatpost (which anyone over 6" will need | | Bottom Line: | I turned 40 this year and the EPIC was gift to myself. I wanted a fast XC bike like my Zaskar with a bit of suspension to give my bones a bit of a break. That is exactly what I got in the Epic. Honestly it isn't that much different than my Zaskar until I hit the bumps then the "Brain" really goes to work.
If you are looking for a plush ride or big hits though this ain't your ride. If you want a go fast bike get your own or you can just try to see mine as I fly past you on the trail. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob
a Cross Country Rider
from NH
Date Reviewed: July 4, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Anyone I have time to get to | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | $1700 internet | | Strengths: | Great XC racer for those who like to put their head dwon and hammer on the trails. Climbs like a goat and eats up small to medium bumps well. On single track it will go as fast as you have the guts to pedal. | | Weaknesses: | For what you would pay full retail you shouldn't see that much LX stuff on the bike. What is up with the stock tires? I have a road bike that would do better in the sand! Stock stem is too short which makes the bike a bit twitchy. | | Similar Products Used: | Still have my ten year old zaskar which on a smooth trail is as fast or faster than the EPIC | | Bike Setup: | Stock except - XT FR Dearailleur, ODI Rogues, Fire XC Pros, XT shifters and Thomson setback seatpost (which anyone over 6" will need | | Bottom Line: | I turned 40 this year and the EPIC was gift to myself. I wanted a fast XC bike like my Zaskar with a bit of suspension to give my bones a bit of a break. That is exactly what I got in the Epic. Honestly it isn't that much different than my Zaskar until I hit the bumps then the "Brain" really goes to work.
If you are looking for a plush ride or big hits though this ain't your ride. If you want a go fast bike get your own or you can just try to see mine as I fly past you on the trail. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gary Monahan
a Weekend Warrior
from Portland
Date Reviewed: June 16, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Ape Canyon | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Kissler's | | Strengths: | Well designed, nice Geometry and the Brain really works! I thought it was schmaltzy gimmickry until I rode it. | | Weaknesses: | I don't know why, but I'm not fond of the aluminum grommet from the seat tube to the top tube, no big deal though. A bit tougher to clean than my FSR. | | Similar Products Used: | Stumpjumper FSR XC Comp | | Bike Setup: | Added riser bar and Avid BB-7s. | | Bottom Line: | I went from an M2 hardtail to a FSR/XC fully suspended ride and found it too smooshy for my taste. This bike is the PERFECT solution. I climb stuff I used to walk and have a lot more confidence cornering. It really does climb like a hardtail, I am totally stoked about this bike!
If you are looking for a hard tail climber and a full suspension descender, this is the right bike... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark
a Racer
from Wisconsin
Date Reviewed: May 6, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: | The Brain shock | | Weaknesses: | The brain shock | | Similar Products Used: | Trek, GF | | Bike Setup: | Stock because of demo | | Bottom Line: | This thing is a rocket. I took it out to the trail where I normally go to train. I was riding at a casual pace and was thinking to myself this thing is fast and then decided to open it up and the bike cut 6 minutes off the lap compared to the week before on my current bike.
The brain shock is nice because it allows the bike to be a hardtail or a fs bike. I just got to demo the bike but it felt like it was hitting something with the rear of the bike but I think it was just the shock doing its job.
I am seriously thinking of getting this bike later this summer just from the couple of hours with the bike and you should also consider getting it if you can. You will be faster. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rick
a Cross Country Rider
from Danbury, CT
Date Reviewed: April 4, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | All of 'em | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Purchased At: | Bike Express | | Strengths: | M5 Frame, Brain Fade Shock, Fox 100RL and XT Crankset. This is a great starting point, and let's you figure out where you want to mod from there. | | Weaknesses: | Hubs, Cassette, Bar and Stem, Seat, Tires, to name a few items. Hey, they had to cut price somewhere... | | Similar Products Used: | Klein Pulse, Stumpjumper | | Bike Setup: | Stock Frame and Fork, Brakes and Derailers. Hope Stem, NOS Scott AT2-LF bars, Bontrager WTB Ti-Rail seat, WTB Kevlar Velociraptors F&R, Chris King ISO Disc Hubs(red), Salsa Flip Off's(red) DT Swiss DB Spokes, Easton Seatpost, SRAM 11-34 cassette, FSA Bash Ring, YUM!!! | | Bottom Line: | This is an update to my first post. Now I have some miles and dings on my frame. The basic stock set-up gave me time to figure out what I wanted to end up with. The rear hub was crunchy after a few hard rides, and the stock HG-50 shifted like lead. So I built up the stock rims with some Chris King ISO Disc hubs(red) and an SRAM Cassette. Shifting is much smoother, and the "Angry Bee Sound" is the ta-ta's. I needed to stretch out a little more and put a little more weight on the front for steep climbing, so the Hope 110mm stem with a little more lift (100deg vs. 98deg) took care of that. The bars were too wide for me as well, so I found a NOS Scott AT2-LF bar on ebay for $20 and all is well in the climbing department now. Before, the front end was too light on steep climbs and would be a bit much to keep on line. There is a bit of flexy feeling on fast fire road descents, but that may be just the geometry changes as the bike soaks up larger bumps.
The Brain (Fade) never ceases to amaze me. It will never be concidered "plush" but the ride soakes up so much when you start to scream along, it's amazing. Once you dial it in and get your pressure set for you (a few rides, small pressure changes and playing with the "Fade" and "Rebound" knobs) it's pure magic. Out of saddle climbs (with the F100RL locked out) feel like my old hard tail Klein, pure upward power!
The brakes are strong with little fade, if a bit noisy when they heat up, and have great feel. Very confidence inspiring on long fast downhills.
I find myself pushing to go that extra bit faster than I was before, with a confident feeling that the bike can handle it.
This is not a bike for hucks and drops, more for rapidly covering ground and dancing in the rocks and logs. If speed is your thing and shaving a few seconds off your time through your course is what you are after, nothing can beat an Epic Comp. Well, maybe an S-Works Epic.
I have to give it a 5X5 rating. Specialized has the market cornered on "Horst Link" equipped bikes, so you pay a little for that. But... the workmanship of the frame is excellent, the suspension delivers it's promise, the stock mix of components is servicable as a starting point. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Marc
a Cross Country Rider
from Montreal, CA
Date Reviewed: March 12, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | U d M Trail | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2350.00 | | Purchased At: | Martin Swiss Cycle | | Strengths: | Weight and Geometry, very very cozy
Bizarre, but amazing spec. XTR/XT/Deore Works great, front fork is second to none, nice stem and handlebars, Truvativ Stylo sets the bar, Avid Fives rock, nice tires and rims and of course, the brain | | Weaknesses: | whenever a small pedal hits the frame it makes a sound that thinks you've scratched it. but you haven't, so keep riding. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 930, Giant Faith 2, Specialized Hard Rock | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | I was worried about the Brain, I was opting for the Epic or a Trance and dived for the Epic. The brain is trully remarkable. coming from a 8" bike i was worried about stiffness. I started riding and i was thinking, damn, this feels like a hardtail, very little give when I weight down on it (not jump up and down). then I go up the first curb. Ummm hello? where did that curb go?
Honestly surprised by how good the brain works. I climb faster than i ever have, even compared to a hardtail. Rocky uphills are chump change for this beast. Downhills are fast and more confident than ever. The geometry is not too agressive and it still makes a brilliant trail bike.
The Trance was cheaper, but this thing is miles, miles, miles better. The top. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill
a
from Richmond, VA
Date Reviewed: March 8, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Pedals like a hard tail, bombs down like the best dualie. Lighter than older Epics | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | Blur, older Epics | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | This bike feels just like the old ones except it goes from locked out to open much smoother. The guy that wrote the last review is wrong, but his might have been messed up. When I first got mine, the inertia valve was stuck in the open position. At first I thought it was the "new" Fade Brain and I was not happy. After a few big hits, the inertia valve started working fine. Too bad that guy sold his because this thing rocks! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chris
a Cross Country Rider
from pinellas park florida usa
Date Reviewed: February 23, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$3500.00 | | Purchased At: | action | | Strengths: | looks, some upgrades made the bike expensive | | Weaknesses: | its a joke THE EPIC NO LONGER HAS A HARD TAIL FEEL the catolog says you can lock out the rear end but call them and it is no longer possible they are missleading you | | Similar Products Used: | R M element | | Bike Setup: | xo king thomson | | Bottom Line: | TELL your friends the epic is no longer a hard tail I spent 3500 bucks only to have peddle bob worse than I did on my cannondale prophet and my element. specialized would not take my bike back they said they reserve the rite to change (without notice)call for youself .the bike shop that sold me the bike didnt even know .they actualy tried to fix my (BRAIN SHOCK)then they called specialized and guess what as you can tell im a little upset about it I just sold it on e bay for half of what i just paid .with out the hard tail,what makes it any different than any other full suspension.....weight yep it weighs MORE than the other xc bikes yep upset (WHY DO THEY THINK WE BUY EPICS) | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Daniel
a Cross Country Rider
from Phoenix
Date Reviewed: February 20, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Strengths: | Rides really well. Looks good. | | Weaknesses: | Fox Brain Shock. The shock leaks and Fox's customer service is really bad. Call 1-800-Fox-Shox and try to speak to a customer service representative. An operator will answer, if you're lucky, then you will be forwarded to a mail box that is full. If you get an empty mail box, maybe someone will call back, maybe not. | | Similar Products Used: | Titus with Manitou | | Bike Setup: | Specialized Epic with XTR/XT Parts | | Bottom Line: | Buy a bike without a proprietary shock. If this was a non-proprietary shock, I could avoid Fox's really poor customer service by sending it to PUSH Industries for a rebuild. I sent this shock to Fox a few months ago for repair and it is leaking again. Good bike - very unrealiable. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul Jensen
a Cross Country Rider
from Jamestown, ND, USA
Date Reviewed: February 18, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Maah Daah Hey | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2429.00 | | Purchased At: | Nicollet Bike Shop, Minnesota | | Strengths: | The selection of components looks very good, attention to detail is evident, the paint looks very cool. I look forward to toying with all of the adjustments such as the front fork psi, fork lock out, brain on the rear and the fade settings. Stock the bike weighed in at 24lb 14 oz. which is a pleasing number and one you can't find on the internet anywhere. Seems bike weights are a secret. The Body Geometry items are great, especially their seats. | | Weaknesses: | I'm not very fond of the invisible Specialized decalling on the frame, you have to get within a few feet to read it. I wish the black finish that is offered on the Marathon model was offered on this level bike. Really like the anodized black. | | Similar Products Used: | Previous bike was a Giant Iguana. | | Bike Setup: | Stock so far with Cateye Micro wireless computer, gotta love the wireless installation! Specialized black aluminum bar ends. | | Bottom Line: | I have to say the Nicollet Bike shop in Nicollet, Minnesota was great to work with and offers great deals on high end bikes. They claim to sell over 800 bikes a year. Look'em up on the internet. This review is prior to me being able to ride the bike because it was -12 degrees F this morning and I almost hate to get it dirty. At this time all seems great with the bike and I can't wait to give it a go. The Shimano hydraulic disc brakes really seem to bite and come on kinda strong.
At 52 years old, I had to think carefully about the cost of this bike but I feel it's the best there is relative to its cost. The Fox components look very nice and the workmanship it very good. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Heych
a Cross Country Rider
from Brisbane, Australia
Date Reviewed: January 22, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Daisy Hill | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | NRG Cycles, Jindalee | | Strengths: | Relatively Light-Weight (12.3kg) ... very efficient pedalling ... agressive riding position. | | Weaknesses: | Black Paint is crap. Scratches and scuffs too easily! | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale Super V 700SX | | Bike Setup: | Stock which includes the Avid BB9 mechanical discs. | | Bottom Line: | This is a review for the Australian 2005 model EPIC Disc. The disc brake is the Avid BB9 mechanical. I was sceptical at first with the mechanicals but once they are bed-in they are fantastic. They do take a bit more fore-arm strength to operate compared to the hydraulics. I had a couple of situations where my fore-arms were well and truely pumped out after a 1km rough downhill section.
The bike has made me a lot quicker rider. There is no bob from the brain shock, which has made a huge improvement in my performance. (My old Super-V bobbed like a $2 hooker)
The flat droopy bars gives you an agressive low riding position which is great for the tight single-track and climbing.
The suspension set-up worked best for me by reducing the pressure that was recommended by the manual. Now riding my favourite trails I tend to use 95% of the travel front and rear and the handling has improved greatly.
5 Chilis for value as for AU$2239, it cannot be beat.
4 Chilis for Overall rating, because the paint is absolutely crap.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brett Campbell
a Cross Country Rider
from Wagga Wagga, NSW, Australia
Date Reviewed: January 18, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | heritage trail, silverton, via broken hill | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$4875.00 | | Purchased At: | the full cycle wagga wagga | | Strengths: | rideability
overall quality and finish
handling
power to ground, rides like a hardtail, but then has suspension! | | Weaknesses: | inconsistency of components
perhaps a little more expensive than comparable bikes
had a dodgy chain which i snapped twice within the first 300 km of riding. upgraded to an XT chain. | | Similar Products Used: | avanti aggressor {hardtail) | | Bike Setup: | standard | | Bottom Line: | what a great bike, really glad to have spent the extra money to buy this calibre of xc full suspension bike as not only is its weight comparable to my previous bike, but its overall componentry is better.
my only disappointment as a purist is that i appreciate consistency of components for synergy, ie all shimano XT as opposed to a mix of deore, xt and xtr.
whether i am training by myself, with others or racing, especially endurance races, the ability knowing that the epic will handle almost anything thrown at it is very reassuring. then how much more comfortable and fun rear suspension makes rough and downhill riding especially on longer and epic (how apt is this!)rides. now wonder i always have a smile on my face, even after a big stack. do not think i could be happier even if i had a budget to spend a lot more money. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from Loma Mar Ca
Date Reviewed: January 9, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Skaggs | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Goride | | Strengths: | Efficient climbing bike, very good for smooth trails and fire roads. Handles very nice I like the medium size frame even though I'm 6'. Climbs switchbacks better because of size frame and once you become acustomed to fast handling 71 degree front end it takes on steep singletrack pretty well. Brain shock works well but it comes with a price. | | Weaknesses: | Brain shock gives and it takes away. Climbs like a hardtail but when the trail goes from smooth to rutted or rooted section the first hit feels and responds like a hardtail. This can stop you dead in your tracks if you're used to a fully complient full suspention and the trail is steep or rough enough. The Brain shock does it's job I wish you could unlock the the shock to make it more complient. | | Similar Products Used: | Sugar+2, Titus switchblade | | Bike Setup: | stock comp disc | | Bottom Line: | Maybe the new 06 shock is what the bike needs, haven't tried one yet. Get this bike if you prefer a hardtail feel on climbs but want to smooth out washboard decents. once shock takes a hit it performs like any other full supension short travel frame. Balance is great the mor I ride the more I like it I'm definitely overall faster than on my switchblade thought the Titus rules on the downhill or rougher trails. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
DMC
a
from The Great NW
Date Reviewed: December 28, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Any rocky rooty muddy singletrack | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | Ebay | | Strengths: | Responsive, Feels lighter that it really is, the BRAIN rides like a hardtail and chews up terrain like a garbage disposer! This bike is bulletproof from what I have seen as well. Oh, the fox float is still the standard for all other forks in plush responsive performance. | | Weaknesses: | Pricey Frame some would say.....you get what you pay for! Little on the heavy side for the weight weenie factor but solid as a rock. | | Similar Products Used: | Salsa Caballero in need of facelift- Next project on the horizon! | | Bike Setup: | Pretty nuch stock Epic Comp Disc w/ Thomson Elite setback and ODI grips a must! | | Bottom Line: | You will not find a better bike for under $2000 in my humble opinion. I can recommend this bike to anyone who wants to fly up and down nasty terrain without getting beat up. Most comfortable ride for those Epic days when you just hafta ride all day!! 5 Flamin' Chilis all round baby! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dion Maber
a Racer
from Victoria, Australia
Date Reviewed: December 23, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Graveyard Gully, Alexandra, New Zealand | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Ebay | | Strengths: | Thinks it a hard tail.. Climbs up almost anything! Make's downhill's a breeze.. holds a line beautifully uphill or down on singletrack or fireroad.. | | Weaknesses: | Can get a little light in the front end on technical climbs but that may just be bike setup (seeing as I'm running a slighly longer travel fork than standard).. frame weight a little more than I'd like but maybe I just have to save my pennies for the carbon version! | | Similar Products Used: | GT Team LTS, Trek Fuel 110, Giant NRS, Specialized FSR 120, Cannondale Prophet | | Bike Setup: | Marzocchi XC Comp, XT, Raceface, Easton Bars, Stem & Seatpost, Mavic Wheelset | | Bottom Line: | Just a damn fast bike all round.. Perfect for aggresive XC use.. very durable to date... I'm 6'1" and 83kg's and ride fairly hard and I haven't had a single problem..
I found the bike seems to suit having the rear shock run slightly lower pressure than in the manual as this seems to get the bike to keep corner speed much better through fast sweepers.
I guess in an ideal world I would like to have an extra inch or two of travel and for the bike to keep the same handling characteristics, it just means that I have to think a little before I throw it off anything too big.. it was never designed as a free-ride bike however.
I used to ride hardtails exclusively cause duallie's 'take the fun out' of riding.. This bike puts the fun back in.. I can only hope I'm as happy with my next bike as I am with this one! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rick
a Cross Country Rider
from Danbury, CT USA
Date Reviewed: December 10, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Hidden Valley | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Express | | Strengths: | This bike has a handling feel so close to my olk Klein Pulse Race, easy to flic around on the techy singletrack, and climbs almost as well. | | Weaknesses: | The stock "Specialized Pro" dual compound yadda yadda yadda tires are weak. Switched to my Nokian WXC's (Hey, it's winter) and will go to WTB Velociraptors when it warms up. The seat had to go, went with my Bontrager Ti-railed seat. Ditched the quick release seatpost binder, could not keep the seatpost locked in. | | Similar Products Used: | Klein Pulse Race
Stumpjumper M2 | | Bike Setup: | Stock '06 (loved the changes from the '05) with diff seat and tires, the SPD's got swapped for Time's, oh and ditched the 44 big ring and put on an FSA guard. | | Bottom Line: | I'm still dialing in, but WOW what a ride. Brain Fade works AWESOME, Fox F100RL are plush, XT discs work great. I weighed mine at 27.9 lbs, not too shabby for 4" of front and rear travel with "da Brain". I've been riding mt bikes for 15 years and was a die hard hard tail guy, but just couldn't take the beating any more. I'm 49 but can chase down many 18yo's. I ride road to keep in shape, and mtn to have fun. Shimano needs to lay off the constant drive train changes tho... not sure if I'll ever use the 22-34 low gear, maybe if my car gets stuck and needs a tow... Had to make the choice for going with an active sus like the SJ-FSR or the Epic. Glad I went Epic. Very flickable and climbs really well. The Epic S-Works Carbon is getting great press, and mine has all the essentials (same angles and such), and only weighs about 2 lbs more, for almost $5,000 less! Ordered the kewl flat gray color, which is so laid back, doesn't "Scream" at you with decals and stuff. Now that I won't be gettin beat up on the trails anymore, I'll be riding more in the dirt! This is a great all around package and is a marvel of engineering. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jonathan
a Racer
from Charlottesville, VA USA
Date Reviewed: December 1, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Walnut Creek | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Purchased At: | Extreme Sports | | Strengths: | • Ascending
• Stable steering in moderately fast, rough sections
• Stable under hard braking
• Higher bottom bracket –less pedal strikes
• Wide range of adjustment for Brain shock –ride longer without getting beat-up
• Snappy acceleration, rewards out of saddle charges without bobbing
| | Weaknesses: | • Mile long rear derailleur cable housing, more fiction = shifting problems
• A little extra cleaning care is need because of the rear shock placement–collects dirt very easily
• XT brakes while powerful have little in the way of modulation.
• Are there new PSI recommendations for Brain Fade? ‘05 recommendations are too low.
• Difficult to turn new Brain Fade knob –maybe needs time to loosen up?
| | Similar Products Used: | Klein Pulse Comp ‘96
Klein Mantra ‘97
Cannondale Super V 1000
Klein Mantra Comp ‘00
Klein Adept Pro ‘01
Specialized S-Works FSRxc ‘02
Ellsworth Truth ‘03
Ellsworth Truth ‘05
| | Bike Setup: | Specialized Epic “Test Bike” in Goblin Green (see Epic ’06 Comp spec) | | Bottom Line: | I must admit my expectations for this newest version of the Epic were not very high. While great at transmitting power to the ground, the Epic has a well earned reputation of being a little on the rough side through bumps. Also, the earlier version when mated to a 100mm fork just did not feel right; it would hunt a little on climbs like most frames that were only design for an 80mm fork. This is no longer the case; the 2nd Gen Epic with its new geometry has evolved into a very formidable platform for both racing and trail riding. With new frame design, revised geometry for 100mm on both ends, and rear shock adjustments, I will go out on a limb and say this is the most improved bike for 2006.
Brain Fade
Brain Fade is the marketing term for the new, adjustable rear shock. Basically, the large blue knob on the rear shock allows a wide range of adjustment to bump-threshold. This is the heart of the Epic package and differs from Pro-Pedal in that out-of-saddle attacks do not overwhelm the shock’s platform. Pro-pedal can activate even if the trail is smooth; the Brain will not. The Brain suspension stays locked until a bump activates the shock but not bad pedalling by the rider.
It was very difficult to turn the adjustment knob and disappointingly, there are no audible clicks which you normally associated with a Fox shock. Also, as there are no clear markers to determine exactly were the knob is turned to. Hopefully this is something Fox/Specialized will address in future enhancements.
I experimented from full on to full off; about 1 1/2 turns of adjustment. I found the adjustment ½ turn from full soft give the feel I was looking for the type of trails I was riding. It took 135psi to obtain 11~12mm sag, I believe the recommended was in the 85psi range for 160 pound rider (way too soft!). When adjusted to Full Hard the bike bounced over every root –just like a hardtail.
Climbing:
This is the forte for the Epic and certainly one of the best in the XC class. Out of the saddle charges are rewarded without the energy sapping bobbing even in the soft setting for the Brain.
Descending:
Much better going down a steep grade then the earlier model. Even with a flat racing handlebar, I found descending performance about equal to my 2005 Truth (which has a wider riser bar). I found myself going flat out down certain sections because of the stability (something I could not say with the ‘02 S-Works I had).
Turning:
The trails I ride in Virginia are typically through tight, twisty sections with lots of pine roots and small rocks. On these types of trails, a good technical rider can easily pull away from a racer who is stronger. I took the time to setup the sag in the shocks, dialled in the rebound, set the tyre pressure, and went at race pace. I was pleasantly surprise how fast you can navigate on the Epic and would have no concerns with racing this bike (assuming I had lighter wheel set). It has the near perfect blend of balance, stability and nimbleness.
Trail Riding:
At a slower pace, one can adjust the rear shock to a softer more comfortable setting. At the softest setting I felt like the bike had a good pro-pedal feel, again without any noticeable bobbing. With this soft setting and 100mm of rear travel, there appears not to be any reason to look for a trail bike; this one does it all with worrying about sacrificing comfort.
Components:
When the temperatures dropped into the 40F the shifting became more difficult with the LX Shifter/XTR derailleur combo. At room temp, it shifts find. I believe this slow shifting is because of the combination of grease used in the cable instead of oil and the mile-long cabling. I would recommend replacing this with a higher grade cable kit at the first opportunity. The good news is that the cable is now solid from the shifter to the derailleur –little chance that dirt will enter the system. Also worth noting the XTR derailleur does not make the noisy racket it did on my old ’02 S-Works FSRxc and Truth –not too sure what has changed with the XTR to prevent it from banging on the stay. Overall the bike ran mostly quite.
The new Fox fork had the same solid handling as my old ’02 unit and the damping feels improved. For some reason the travel would only go around 75mm, I could not get the fork to bottom even with the correct amount of sag (around 70 to 75 psi). The rear shock was giving full travel.
For what the XT brakes have in power they lack in modulation. You only have a few mm of movement from off to full wheel lock. Care was required when braking on the blankets of autumn leaves now on the trails for fear of locking up and dumping the bike. Many times I wished to have my old, trusty Hope Mini.
For racing, consider upgrading to a lighter wheel set. Otherwise the Comp model is near ready to race out of the box in the Sports class. With the lighter wheel set this bike is ready for the Expert level.
Who should buy?
The original Epic was a narrow focused bike for mainly racers (if they could get past the small amount of extra weight). I believe this new model has broadened the spectrum to include the more aggressive trail riders. This may mean more cross over with customers considering Specialized’s other XC oriented bikes like the SJ. I believe you will see more trail riders who occasionally race selecting this bike.
When price comes into the equation, the Al version of the Epic is the economical choice without giving up much in the way of performance.
To end with, I was surprised there was little to no performance difference from my current ride; in climbing it is truly better. For 2006, Specialized has really improved upon the Epic.
Notes:
• Demoed for two days in dry conditions with temps ranging from 15C to 1C (60F~34F)
• Effective top tube 59.6cm (23.5”) for Large frame -measured horizontally from centre of seat post to centre of head tube
• I’m 1.78m (5’10”) and had a perfect fit on the large
• Weight of bike: around 12.7 kilos or 28lbs
• Brain Fade set up: 10 clicks out from full fast, 135psi gave 11 to 12mm sag
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Cameron
a
from Ontario
Date Reviewed: November 15, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$3000.00 | | Purchased At: | Skis and Bikes Collingwood | | Strengths: | Great bike I do alot of street and XC and it preforms great in both places. I just need to remember disc brakes are powerful, broke my arm and shoulder because of those powerful things. | | Weaknesses: | Seatpost slips all the time very annoying when your going down a trail and so start to sink down. Fox Fork leaks. | | Similar Products Used: | If a Kona Hahanna counts. | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | Great bike and I got a good deal. Great bike for XC. The faster you go the better it works, then more speed and so on. If you are looking for a fast XC bike that is good at racing and also bikin with the boys this is your bike, just watch out you don't take it down any hills before if you've never had disc brakes before. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chad Cook
a
from Lincoln, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: October 17, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Auburn State Rec. Area | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2499.00 | | Purchased At: | City Bicycle Works | | Strengths: | New Brain Fade!!! XT hydro. disc brakes, XT cranks, XTR rear derailleur, nice seat | | Weaknesses: | LX front derailleur, bars and seat post are bulky, for my terrain the tires suck | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized FSR Stumpjumper Expert (tested), Giant NRS (tested), Rocky Mountain Element (tested), Cannondale Scalpel (tested), Schwinn Red Rocket 88 (thrashed rental at Mammoth), Giant Warp (thrashed rental at Mammoth) | | Bike Setup: | other than seat post height...nothing yet. | | Bottom Line: | After riding some thrashed rentals at bike parks, riding my '88 Rockhopper or my friend's mid-90s Stumpjumper, and test riding in parking lots almost every bike between $2000-$3000, the 2006 Specialized Epic Comp is a dream. It climbs awesome (even though it is not exceptionally light), and has the right amount of suspension for everything except the biggest, rocky drop offs. The only changes I will make anytime soon is a lighter bar and seat post, new tires, and a XTR front derailleur. The new Brain Fade is awesome. It can be firmed up to be "locked out" like the old Brain or softened to be in "Pro Pedal" mode. For $2500, you can't find a better XC, race ready bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
CJR
a
from Earlysville, VA
Date Reviewed: October 11, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Kicker | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Parts Mix out of the box was durable/efficiency blended perfect. New 06 Brain fade is amazing, FoX RL100 is also a perfect match. | | Weaknesses: | Seatpost/Stem/Bar on the heavy side. LX Cassette, Wheels non-tubeless | | Bike Setup: | 06' Epic Comp Ano Grey XL, Upgrades: (CrossMax tubeless Python lights, Xt cassette, EC70 Post, EC90 Flat Bar, DeusXC Stem 120mm, Oury Grips, Gobi Saddle) Stock Stuff: XT Brakes, XTR Rear Guerilla, LX Front Guerilla, LX Shifters (my preferance anyway). | | Bottom Line: | I've been racing a Cannondale Hardtail with a Headshok for the past couple years and it was fast and light, but this bike is like a dream... the control, the power transfer, and the glide on this bike is amazing... My first ride on it was the best ride I've had all year. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dennis
a Cross Country Rider
from Holly, MI USA
Date Reviewed: September 24, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Holdridge Lakes | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2400.00 | | Purchased At: | Assenmachers - Swartz Creek | | Strengths: | Good weight, 0 pedal input, works as claimed, cool blue anodizing - doesn't scratch easy, inertia valve tuning is perfect, Fox fork, BG saddle, Avid Jucy 5s | | Weaknesses: | Tires, cranks
I would rather have it spec'd: XT der's front & rear, XT cranks w/ integrated BB, and no pedals | | Similar Products Used: | Spec. Rockhopper Pro, Gary Fisher Sugar 2
ridged black chrome Schwinn High Sierra | | Bike Setup: | Spec. bar ends, Conti Vapor Pros front & rear | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike!!!
Coming from a hard tail this is the perfect transition to Full Sus. It softens the trail but pedals so efficiently. Climbs great, decends great, pedals great, what else is there. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Hito
a Weekend Warrior
from Ann Arbor, MI
Date Reviewed: September 19, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | KLM | | Strengths: | Product does what it is supposed to do. No bob on hard pedaling, soaks up bumps when needed. Makes you want to go faster and push yourself. | | Weaknesses: | The rear hydros seized after about 70 miles, but after that has been replaced, none. After setting up the shock properly, the bike rocks. I upgraded the cranks and several components to make it lighter, but didn't have to. | | Similar Products Used: | GF Tass | | Bike Setup: | Epic Comp with few mods. | | Bottom Line: | This is a followup review. I have about 200mi on the bike. I ride every weekend and take it all out on local trails and it has not disappointed me. The fork and shock combination is just right, and I can clear hills that I have never been able to with this bike, and outrun majority of the people on the trails.
(Except for those ultra hardcore people with titanium frame hardtail bikes, and wearing full spandex with sponsor logos, and with bulging thighs.)
I'm kinda skeptical about the previous reviewer mentioning a "Kink" in the frame. You can still dent the frame without scratching it, you know. I'm not accusing anyone of anything, but it sucks when someone blames something else when it is their own fault. It just seems skeptical that there is only 1 mention of the "kink" in the frame out of the 52 reviewers. I have no problem with my frame, and I have been doing fast "rough-roots-and-rockgarden" riding every weekend. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve Bondi
a Weekend Warrior
from Manitoulin Island
Date Reviewed: September 11, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Smoothie | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Sports | | Strengths: | I have sumbitted a review for this bike after 2 months of glorious riding. As I mentioned before unfortunately about 90% of my riding is on paved and gravel roads. I have rode about 40 km over two days at Hardwood Hills and the rest of my off-road riding has been at a municipal trail that a group of us are trying to build. This park has beautiful mature trees but virtually no elevation changes. Now to get to my review... | | Weaknesses: | after spending almost $3500 CND one would expect to get a few years of great use out of the bike. Not so! Much to my amazement I found that the right side seat stay developed a buckle (kink) on the outside of the tubing. I have never crashed this bike, sure I fell once or twice but my bike doesn't have a single scratch on it. It is perfectly clean and cared for. I believe the seat stay tubing had a defect or weak spot in it. | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | Specialized will not warranty this defect! Becareful when buying Specialized as they are eager to collect large sums of money from you but they do not stand by their warranty claims. To make things worse they could not provide me the proper replacement "rear triangle". My bike is blue and the chioces of replacement parts is black or black! Yes that is right they won't warranty and they don't even have any rear parts for this bike. Am I upset? Yes for sure. Will I buy another Specialized.... I hear that Giant honours they warranties with out question. So if you want a bike that the company will stand behind... don't choose Specialized. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
K. G. Koch
a Cross Country Rider
from Philadelphia
Date Reviewed: August 31, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2100.00 | | Purchased At: | Keswick Cycles | | Strengths: | Big fan of The Brain, it hooks up on any kind of terrain, wet or dry. Light and fast descibes this bike through and through. | | Weaknesses: | I get that seatpost slippage, you have to tighten it down to the point you can't open it by hand. Chain drops when going into the granny under duress, jacked my kneecaps a few times on the fork caps a few times before I caught on to the LX Front's tendencies. Ouch. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized FSR. Had an old K2 ProFlex 4000 for years before finally breaking down and upgrading. | | Bike Setup: | Stock but for Pedro's Lockable Grips, Time Pedals and Specialized wireless computer. Will be upgrading tires soon. | | Bottom Line: | This thing climbs like a goddamn billy goat. I like the overall feel of the bike, no matter what the terrain is, it's a stable, comfortable ride. It's very balanced on tight singletrack. Oh, and it's fast as Hell. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Abe
a
from Appleton, Wi
Date Reviewed: August 28, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2400.00 | | Strengths: | Climbs awesome, the brain works unbelievably good, reasonably light for full suspension, frame fits me very good | | Weaknesses: | Really none. To be picky, the seatpost can slip and original tires packed more dirt than I was used to. Some complain about LX on front, but I have never had any issues with the LX front der. | | Similar Products Used: | None can compare, but I did try out a Fuel 90. | | Bike Setup: | Stock, less pedals (I added Time Aliums), less tires (I added Mythos) | | Bottom Line: | If you have the cash you would make a mistake to buy anything else. This bike has been everthing I hoped for and more. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Hugh
a Cross Country Rider
from Auckland, New Zealand
Date Reviewed: July 19, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$3000.00 | | Purchased At: | A shop. | | Strengths: | Light. Fast. Light & Fast. Read the other reviews, not worth me repeating all the praises of the suspension. It is very good though.
| | Weaknesses: | The shocks. What???? you say. You've got a couple of stonkin Fox works of art on that bike! Well, yes they do work well, but every one in the know (THE MANUAL, bike shop, forums, experience etc) is telling me that in order for the shocks to last you've gotta store the bike upside down. Yep, that means you can't leave your open drink bottle sitting around on the bike to go mouldy as it'll leak all over the floor. It also raises questions as to the quality of the seals. I wouldn't buy Fox shocks again until they fix whatever seal issues they've got there.
Other gripe, the seat post keeps slipping. I've had to tighten the quick release very very tight to stop this. Might just be mine though. | | Similar Products Used: | NRS1. Couple of hardtails. | | Bike Setup: | Stock. Would might replace the seat post, hubs, pedals in that order. But I probably won't. | | Bottom Line: | Beautiful bike. I heard a lot of comments about the harsh racing geometry when I was looking to buy, but it's nowhere as harsh as my old stead. I'd recommend this bike to any one who wants a fast firm xc bike. Fits like a glove, goes like a rocket, climbs like a climbing thing and goes down hill quite nicely thank you very much.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Norton
a Cross Country Rider
from Whitmore Lake, Michigan - U.S.
Date Reviewed: July 10, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Big South Fork | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Great overall ride! Bike responds very well, doing exactly what you ask of it:) I've noticed there's been times, when on my old bike (GT Zaskar HT) that I would have crashed, the epic comp has saved my ass in these situations. Overall strength goes into the suspension, without a doubt! | | Weaknesses: | The WEAK Lx front and the crank set, possibly the BB. | | Similar Products Used: | N/A | | Bike Setup: | Stock Baby! | | Bottom Line: | Grrrrreat Bike! Ride is superb! Very attractive I must say. Light as hell for a FC | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Calgary,Alberta, Canada
Date Reviewed: July 5, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Powderface | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Purchased At: | The Bike Shop | | Strengths: | This is an all round great ride! The Brain Shock works great, you never have to worry about it, I use the manufacturers set up guide and have had no problems with the set up. As for some peoples opinion that they need the adjustable Brain Lite, I could'nt disagree more as any bump that does not activate the shock is not worth worrying about anyway!
The Fox 100 RL forks work good as well, would be nice if they too had an inertia valve set up as well.
This bike eats up fast singletrack and rides smooth as silk. It also is great to climb on as well.
I'm not giving my bike a good review because I coughed up the big bucks, it just is a great XC ride and the Brain shock makes it all the sweeter. It has turned out better than I had hoped. More dirt please! | | Weaknesses: | The LX shifters and Deore level brake calipers and brake levers work well but I would have expected at least an XT level of gear in those departments.
I have noticed that the 2005 Epic Comp now sports the higher specs including the Brain Lite. | | Similar Products Used: | Did a lot of "parking lot" testing with bikes from TREK, Giant, and Cannondale. I upgraded from a 96 Giant Iguanna SE. | | Bike Setup: | Mostly stock, replaced the racing saddle with a more comfortable Specialized gel seat, I added Lizard Skins lock on grips and Cane Creek Ergo 2 bar ends (they work great!). I use a Cat Eye Enduro 8 cyclocomputer as well. | | Bottom Line: | All round great ride! I couldn't be happier and have not had one bit of buyers remorse! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve Bondi
a
from Manitoulin Island
Date Reviewed: June 27, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Hardwood Hills - Serious | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Sports - Newmarket | | Strengths: | Awesome bike for the guy who loves to ride trails but finds himself on gravel and paved roads most of the time. The ability of the suspension to adapt to the varying types of terrain is the main reason for getting this bike. | | Weaknesses: | Some trails are technical and choppy and others are fast and rolling it would be nice to upgrade the "Brain Lite" to the Brain which has a "sensitivity" adjustment..... Hardly a weakness though as the ride has been terrific. | | Similar Products Used: | Old bike was a Specialized Hardrock hardtail I loved the way this bike fit my body size and the Epic Comp Disk is a perfect fit as well. | | Bike Setup: | Stock with Specialized hydralic disk brakes. I had the dealer change the stock flat handle bar to a low-rise bar. | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike. A quick turn of the lockout dial on the fork and you have absolutely no pedal bob (front or back)when pedalling up hills or pedalling hard. I Ride for exercise and enjoyment. I love trails but end up riding roads and back roads because of time constraints and convenience. If this describes you then get to your local bike shop and buy an Epic Comp Disk. I am 5'5" and the "small" frame size is perfect. It has been said before but is worth repeating. When on the trail the faster you go and the harder you work the bike the better it rides. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Daniel
a Cross Country Rider
from Phoenix, AZ
Date Reviewed: June 10, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | South Mountain | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | The Bike Barn - Phoenix, AZ | | Strengths: | Realiable, Sold Pedaling Platform | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | First Full Suspension Bike | | Bike Setup: | Mavic Crossmax XL, Thomson Stem & Seatpost, Avid Juicy 7s, XT Cranks, XTR Rear Derailer | | Bottom Line: | It makes mountain biking enjoyable. No complaints at all. It is really steady going up hill and rides rocky downhill sections with ease. I would buy this bike again. I did change out many of the stock componants but the bike was a really good value with the original parts. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill
a Cross Country Rider
from Odenton, MD
Date Reviewed: June 8, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Purchased At: | College Park Cycles | | Strengths: | Entire bike is one big strength! I am extremely happy with it after 1 year of riding---without comparison, this is the best bike I've ever owned. I have upgraded several things but even stock, the bike setup was great! I am 6'2" and weigh 215lbs...this bike takes whatever abuse I give it. The Fox on the front & rear are outstanding. | | Weaknesses: | None noted. I will upgrade the brakes eventually but not for awhile. Although I was happy with the stock crankset, I noticed a major improvement with the Race Face Deus. | | Similar Products Used: | None in the same category. I had a Schwinn Moab for 6 years. I destroyed that after 3 years in Europe. | | Bike Setup: | Chris King headset, Thomson stem & seatpost, Easton Monkeylite handlebar, Raceface Deus Cranks, Mavic Crossland Rims, SRAM X0 grip shifters/rear derailleur. | | Bottom Line: | I would recommend this bike to anyone. Although I have upgraded numerous components, I really didn't need to. The stock setup was better than anything I was used to. I have been riding Patapsco State Park in Maryland for just over a year now and this bike just gets better and better with each ride. I love the Fox on the front and rear...it's like riding on air! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Hito
a Cross Country Rider
from Ann Arbor, MI
Date Reviewed: June 6, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Olsen | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | KLM | | Strengths: | The Brain technology is awesome. The frame is light enough to be a competitive XC bike. Fox Fork and shock is top quality. XTR rear deraileur is great. Avid discs are great also. Rims are OK. | | Weaknesses: | LX front is insufficient. UPGRADE
Deore crank is insufficient. UPGRADE
No Name brand seat post scratches easily and heavy. UPGRADE
Maybe new rims, X317 may be insufficient to heavy riders, but it is light and strong enough for a 150lb agressive rider.
I upgraded the Shimano 520 pedals since I have the Time cleats, but I heard the shimano 520 are great pedals.
The rest of the componentry is great. | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Few mods. | | Bottom Line: | This is a great bike, however, the LX front, Cranks, and the seatpost is not sufficient for this bike. Upgrade these and you will have an awesome bike. My bike spec is now almost identical/better than the MARATHON EPIC, and I haven't spent $3800 on it yet.
(I may upgrade to XT cassette and XTR chain when they wear out, but the ones that come with the bike is good enough.)
So I guess it is best to go with the comp version and upgrade a few parts to make it similar to the MARATHON version. You'd still end up spending less than the ridiculous $3800 for the epic marathon. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott Wilkie
a Cross Country Rider
from Washington Twp., MI USA
Date Reviewed: May 24, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Stoney Creek Metro Park | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2400.00 | | Purchased At: | Fraser Cycle and Fitness | | Strengths: | Brainshock technology, anodized finish, and climbing efficacy | | Weaknesses: | A little on the heavy side for a so called XC race bike. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek Y-11 | | Bike Setup: | Completely stock except for newer Specialized Stem and Thomson seat post. | | Bottom Line: | I began my search for a full suspension replacement for my Trek Y-11 about a year ago. I ride mainly cross country and do the Iceman Cometh Bike race each year. I was looking for a cross country bike that was full suspension and would be good for singletrack riding and a race or two. I poured over mountain bike magazines and this website a lot. I narrowed my two choices to the: Specialize Epic Comp Disk and Ellsworth Truth. After narrowing it down I made a list of pros and cons for both bikes. In the end the Specialized came out on top for a variety of reasons. First, the price, at $2400 it was about $1000 cheaper than a complete Ellsworth. Second, Nobody in Michigan(up until just recently) sold Ellsworths, Third, I have read a lot of horror stories about frame breakage and shodding customer service with Ellsworths, and a good friend of mine had a Truth which broke and Ellsworth wouldn't warranty it.
Now about the bike. My bike is a size medium and it has a smooth blue anodized finish which really caught my eye. The black shimano componentry really makes the bike look sharp. For me looks are every bit as important on a bike as performance. The bike tips the scales at 25 lbs. I could probably lighten it if I really wanted to. Everything on my bike is stock except for the Thomson seat post and longer Specialized stem. Fraser Cycle and Fitness used the Wobble Naught bike fitting system to custom fit me to the bike, thus the need for a new seat post and stem. Most of the components are Shimano XT and Specialized brand stuff. The Avid Juicy 5 break work pretty good. This is my first time having disk brakes on a bike. The shifters work pretty well with a ghost shift here or there but nothing I would consider a problem. I am not crazy about the stock seat. I prefer my old Koobi seat and may buy a new one or switch them. Grips are grips I will change them when they wear out. The handlebar as taken some getting use to also. It is a lot shorter than my Y-11 and makes the bike seems twitchy on the trail. I bought a Specialized bike computer but will probably replace this too. The wiring system snapped twice until I finally replaced it with an older computer which doesn't have a detachable wire. The stock pedals will be gone too. I am going to try either the Time Atac or Crank Bros. Egg Beaters. Speciaized claims this bike is for XC racing. I can see it being raced but not at an Expert or Pro level. Maybe Sport and Beginner.
As for trail performance: The bike is pretty nimble considering it weighs in at roughly 25 lbs. It holds it own on tight singletrack. The Epic feels twitchy in the singletrack but that may be due to the shorter handlebar width. Where the Epic really excels is in the climbing area. You can feel the back tire digging into the trail with every pedal stroke without any bob. I found myself clearing hills that previously I would have walked. The Epic straight out climbs. On the downhills it wanders a little and you have to keep a firm grip on the steering. I am not a crazy downhiller any ways so I don't mind. The Fox Fork locks out which I love. I ride a lot of pavement and hard pack trails and the lock out is great. I will probably update it with a stable platform front shock in the future. One thing that really surprised me was that the harder and faster I pedaled the better the bike handled and performed. It seemingly begs to go faster. This has made me a better rider and helped me finish my favorite loop at Stoney faster.
Value: At $2400 the Epic is not cheap. I was disappointed that Specialized didn't trick out the bike with some more high end components like Giant does with their line of bikes. I just felt that for that kind of ching you should get a little more. That is why I give it four flamin' chili's.
Overall: Overall I am satisfied with the bike and its performance. The Epic cliimbs great and handles well in the singletrack. The guys and girl at Fraser Cycle and Fitness are INCREDIBLE! They have bent over backwards to make me happy with my purchase, answering all my questions no matter how dumb they might have seemed. I would recommend them to anyone. Anyone looking for a great all-around XC bike would do well to look at a Specialized Epic Comp Disk. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tim W.
a Cross Country Rider
from Anchorage, Alaska
Date Reviewed: May 17, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | Local Specialized dealer | | Strengths: | Roll X Pro tires are great, though they do throw up lots of small stones, as others have mentioned. They’ve performed well in dust, on smooth rock and muddy forest road. | | Weaknesses: | Stock pedals, seatpost and handlebar. Everybody seems to cut corners to hit price points these days. Fortunately, these components are easily upgraded. The need for upgrades is the only reason I give it four chilis for value instead of five. | | Similar Products Used: | I looked hard at the Giant NRS-1 and Santa Cruz Superlight and Blur, but have no riding experience with other full-suspension – I’ve spent many years on Specialized hardtails. | | Bike Setup: | Thompson Elite setback seatpost, Crank Bros. Egg Beater pedals, SRAM Rocket shifters, ’05 Easton EC70 carbon flat bar. All other parts are stock. | | Bottom Line: | I bought this bike in November and did some riding over the winter in Alaska, but waited until I could spend a week with it in Fruita, CO, and Moab, UT, before trying to review it. I just finished the trip and I’m thrilled with the bike. After years of riding hardtails, I'm ready for a softer ride and more control, but I've been spoiled by my old M2 Stumpjumper frame so I still want a bike that climbs without bobbing and flexing. Once I hit the trails in Fruita, it took a day or so to dial in the suspension to my liking, but it performs as advertised. During a week of hard use on technical singletrack, climbing and handling in tight conditions were both impressive, especially with the Brain valve in the rear and front fork lockout for long pulls. The overall suspension system works wonders. On rocky climbs, I cleaned small boulders when the suspension compensated for my ugly slam-into-the-rock-and-pedal-hard technique. Descending Porcupine Rim, I was aiming for the rocks and (small) drops I would have avoided on my old hardtail. My only complaint was overheated brakes on steep descents like Joe’s Ridge and The Edge Loop – but I’m a big rider (200 lbs), so maybe I was asking a bit too much of the Deore set (good item to upgrade later). The squealing was bothersome, but probably will be rare on the less-severe descents I ride closer to home. Bottom line: No regrets. I’d buy this bike again, and I plan to ride it for a long time. This is an ideal bike for riders who want the additional control that comes with full suspension without sacrificing the climbing qualities of a hardtail. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dustin Bilthouse
a Racer
from Atlanta, GA
Date Reviewed: May 8, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | The Ag Center | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Purchased At: | CycleWorks | | Bike Setup: | Mavic Crossland Tubeless Rims, Maxxis Ingnitors, Thomson Seatpost & Stem, Easton Carbon Flat Bar, Selle Italia Flite Ti, XTR FR Derailur. | | Bottom Line: | I'm resubbmitting a new review after my one year anniversary with my 04' Epic Comp. This bike is still riding like the day i bought it, no problems with the suspension or hydro disc brakes...EVER! After many add-ons I've got the Epic right where I want it. This bike has never failed to ride over anything in any type of weather on any type of terrain. Kudos to Specialized for making such a wonderful machine, I can only hope they're still making new ones when I need one. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan
a Cross Country Rider
from Spokane, WA, USA
Date Reviewed: April 27, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Caribou Ridge | | Duration Product Used: | 2 Years | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Purchased At: | WheelSport East | | Strengths: | Overall it's a badass. Very fast climber and can handle anything on the way down. Can't go wrong with the FOX Float. "Worth every penny." | | Weaknesses: | The Comp/Disc doesn't come w/ tubeless. Also, didn't care for the placement of the rear derailer housing under the bottom braket. | | Similar Products Used: | If you have a hardtail now and you want to experience some of the comforts of a full suspension, this is the bike for you. | | Bike Setup: | Fork: Fox Float RL 100mm. Rear: Fox Racing Brain 90mm. Deore Disc. LX front, XTR rear. LX shifters/cassette. | | Bottom Line: | Now you now why Specialized named it the "EPIC". | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Lars
a Cross Country Rider
from Stuttgart, Germany
Date Reviewed: April 21, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Cross Country | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Strengths: | The brain is totally cool, the Fox F100RL fork is real sweet. Rapid fire shift levers rule, I'm not getting that dual control stuff. XT rear derailleur is good enough, shifts perfectly and the front LX is doing a fine job so far, if it goes I'll get an XT derailleur. | | Weaknesses: | I like everything about the bike, except the paint. I'm very disappointed, I love the black color, but although I take good care of it, the frame looks pretty busted already (300 km). If hit by the smallest stones the paint get's nasty scratches and dents. | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale Super V700, Specialized Rockhopper | | Bike Setup: | Standard 05 EPIC | | Bottom Line: | A real value, I'd get the bike again. I'm not so sure about the Avid V-brakes, I'll probably get some hydraulic Magura HS33 brakes soon.
Great uphill, no more wipping and loosing power like on a normal FSR. Due to the really nice fork downhill is lot's of fun.
Overall the best bike I've ever owned. I ride it every 2 days for about 20 - 40 Kms and if I don't, I wish I could.
I recommend the bike to Cross Country riders. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Kellyn Smythe
a Cross Country Rider
from Bend, OR, USA
Date Reviewed: April 20, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | anything fast | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$23000.00 | | Purchased At: | Hutches Eastside Bend OR | | Strengths: | This bike is a sweet blend of weight, suspension, and sex appeal. The Brain/Fox Shock does exactly as advertized:absorbs your hits and stays hard when you need it to. it is hard to tell that you are rideing a fully; it is only when you grimace while waiting for the thud after a hit that you find your money well spent will take the energy for you. | | Weaknesses: | "A wee bit low on the draft" Not to bad of a fix though... I reccomend smaller outer chainring possibly one with a bash guard. | | Similar Products Used: | Nothing quite like this but the 2004 Stumpjumper with fox pro-peddle is a nice try | | Bike Setup: | essentialy stock ecxcept bar-ends, a much lighter rear gearset, lighter rims, and the dual platform /clip in Shamano peddles oh yeah... and a pink horn | | Bottom Line: | Even if XC is not your thang... it is worth trying out this hybird just to let it do it's thang. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bryan
a Weekend Warrior
from Hong Kong
Date Reviewed: April 13, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1700.00 | | Purchased At: | SuperGo in California | | Strengths: | Just had it a week so still setting it up. So its just some early comments.
Works as advertised. Rear suspension "Brain" is fabulous for those sitting on the hardtail side of the fence, but want some suspension to iron out the bumps in the road. Its quite light too. I weighed mine (see upgrades below) at 28 lbs. White colour looks great if you ask me. Glossy laquer appears to give it some scratch protection. Front shock so far is great. Lock out really fully locks out. Rear susp is as firm as I like/need it to be. Price. I bought this in a rush, so I didn't get to shop around, but as a 2004 model the price is quite a bit off the 2005 model anyway. | | Weaknesses: | Um... not a weakness, but you need to spend some time tuning the shocks up - front and rear. Also the discs are still very weak. I'll reserve judgement on the brakes. But it feels weak still. | | Similar Products Used: | My last/other bike is Cannondale F300 2003 model. | | Bike Setup: | The bike was weighed at 28 lbs with the following upgrades: XT cassette; XT shifters and Jagwire cables; Weyless flat carbon handlebars. All else standard 2004 Epic Comp Disc model. | | Bottom Line: | I'm a weekend warrior who rides mostly around the concrete jungles of Hong Kong. But occassionally, I take part in Adventure Racing and the odd trail ride on hardpack type trails. For this kind of riding and with my limited experience on this bike, its light enought and nimble enough. The bike is much much faster than my old one. I guess a combination of better parts and the suspension ironing out the ripples in the road. I'm not sure if there is any other bike/design out there with such a rear setup but this one really appeals to me. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shelley Currin
a Cross Country Rider
from Johannesburg, South Africa
Date Reviewed: April 12, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Purchased At: | R & A Cycles, USA | | Strengths: | Fox RL100 shock is awesome. Flat handlebars are better than those on the 04 model. Pedals are an improvement on last years model. Blue annodized colour is great compared to the white of 04 model. | | Weaknesses: | Branding started to peel off after one ride in the rain!!! Rear shock is leaking air. Swopped out the LX front derailleur for XT and the shifters, rear derailleur and chain for SRAM X.9, performance is great. Swopped out Specialized Pro tyres for Conti Explorers because the original tyres threw up a lot of small stones. | | Similar Products Used: | None, my first full suspension bike. | | Bottom Line: | Great bike. Pity about the branding coming off the frame...very poor show!! Have had no response from Specialized on this!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul
a Cross Country Rider
from Auckland NZ
Date Reviewed: April 10, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | The Brazilian Slippy Slide | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$3000.00 | | Strengths: | Blue (see post below). This bike is sweeeet. It's light for a fully, the brain works wonders. It feels fast on the track. The stock components are (mostly) good enough for most people (well, me anyway). Great saddle. | | Weaknesses: | Pedals would be the only thing I'd replace. Not a major though. | | Similar Products Used: | Old XC race hardtail. Tested a stumpy, Giant NRS1, Scott Genius. Almost got the Scott.... | | Bike Setup: | Stock. I keep going back to the default suspension settings (from the handbook for my weight). They seem to be spot on. 6"ft rider, I've got a large and it fits perfect. | | Bottom Line: | Long live the hardtail - for training rides on the road. I agonised over the decision to convert to a fully for about 6 months. I made the right decision, the ONLY con to it was the cost in comparison. If you've got the ping then this bike is awesome.
As advertised, the brain works. It feels like a hardtail on the hills. In fact it feels like a hardtail full stop - I had to get some one to follow me to make sure the thing was working, and I still use the o-ring to see if the suspension has been active. But I am going soooo much faster....... :) | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jay
a Racer
from ny
Date Reviewed: April 7, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | blue pond | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1600.00 | | Purchased At: | owner | | Strengths: | Too many to list! Great climber! Superior descending! Fox Forx work great! | | Weaknesses: | Pedals are junk,Stout hub cant use lighter skewer, | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | 04 Comp disc wellgo ti pedals, Bontrager tires, FSA exo cranks, Switched to dual control XT shifters,Wtb pure v stealth saddle. etc! | | Bottom Line: | Bottom line on this rig is that for the money, with a few modifications your getting the ride of a $3500 plus rig. I have yet to do any serious off roading due to winter but for all the road riding I have done everything is super comfortable | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
JakeD
a Cross Country Rider
from West Chester, PA
Date Reviewed: March 30, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Brandywine Creek SP | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | West Chester Bicycle Center | | Strengths: | Light(er than my old bike), Tracks well, climbs exdtremely well, descends well, pretty much does everything very well | | Weaknesses: | I can't ride it inside my school building between classes | | Similar Products Used: | None, I came of of a very portly Giant HT | | Bike Setup: | Stock + eggbeaters | | Bottom Line: | This bike rocks, The fork (Fox) tracks well, as does the rear end. I don't subscribe to the belief that the rear end is harsh, as I test rode many other full suspension bikes and have found (after nearly 100 mi) that this is as plush as any fully active model when it needs to be. When it doesn't need to be, it's not there at all. The drivetrain shifts cleanly, even in the soggy conditions we have lately had her in East PA.
Nothing can stop this bike, it sails through tech sections like they weren't even there, and climbs faster than my friend's $1500 hard tail. It goes down even faster. It is iportant, though, to set up the rear shock properly or it can feel a little soggy with too much sag. Once you get that done, it is like magic.
You should buy this bike if you are looking for a super-fast, reasonably priced full suspension ride. Oh, and look for left over 04 models. It's the same bike only about $600 cheaper. Come on, do you really need the blue??? | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Douglas
a Weekend Warrior
from Gaithersburg
Date Reviewed: February 16, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Schaeffer Farms | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Purchased At: | Built it myself | | Strengths: | Great suspension package with absolutely no bob, the climbing abilities of this bike are incredible. I go downhill faster than I thought possible. | | Weaknesses: | I'm still looking. I'm not exactly an expert. | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | 2003 Epic frame with 04 Brain, Thomson stem and layback seatpost, Easton low rise bar, Shimano 965 shifters and hydro brakes, 965 hubs, XTR front and rear derailleur, Mavic XC 717, Fox Float 100 RLC, 540 pedals and the old school Shimano XTR 952 5 arm Crankset. | | Bottom Line: | This is my fourth mountain bike that I've owned during my life and I had no idea that I was supposed to go up and down hill so fast. Like others in this post I was somewhat hesitant when I decided to buy this bike and take the full suspension leap. But after reading the reviews I decided to make my first step into full suspension domain, even if it was a somewhat hesitant leap. In retrospect what a great decision.
I decided that the best thing for me to do was to build the bike myself since I have kids, bills and a mortgage. I’m just not the guy who can go out and spend $2,800 on a bike in one swoop. It takes time for me. This also worked great for me because it allowed me to build the bike how I wanted, with no unwanted components that I would have to upgrade in the future. Check the spec’s above.
After I built the bike I didn't like it during my first few rides because it felt a bit squirrelly. I just felt that it generally sucked and was badly built and I had a hard time controlling and trusting it. It felt like an unruly mule on a dangerous mountain trail. As I sat at home after those first few disappointing rides and reflected on my experiences, I figured out that my style sucked, because of my hardtail past, and that the bike was great. I made up in my mind that I would try harder and not be afraid to take corners, downhill and uphill sections at full speed the next time. HO-LY-COW!
The problem I found was that I was use to being apprehensive during downhill riding and everything seemed technical on uphill and somewhat rocky and rooty ascents. The bike naturally wanted to move faster, which made me uncomfortable during those first rides. But I have since noticed that it absorbs most things thrown at it and I very seldom know when the brain is working, which is amazing in and of itself. Just incredible! That darn bike will get it like a scalded dog!
Here’s the only question that concerns me about this bike: Does this mean that I will always have to buy a Specialized Epic in the future since this was my first FS bike and basically is all I know about FS? Being that the brain design is a proprietary design used only by Specialized.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Russ
a
from Sydney, Australia
Date Reviewed: February 15, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Great suspension package with no bob, reasonable weight, good choice of sizing from manufacturer. | | Weaknesses: | None at the moment, apart from some frustration with (non-OEM)disk and caliper rub. | | Similar Products Used: | Kona Mini Mula | | Bike Setup: | Standard at the moment | | Bottom Line: | Just a note on the sizing, as I poured through MTBR's pages looking for assistance when looking at my options, and I want to return the favour for others. I'm 6'3" (but 80kg weight)and went for the Epic's XL frame size, when many other dually options at this price point seemed to stop short at around 20" seatpost length (or a L). But they all measure different, and this becomes relative. Once I'd settled on the Epic, bike shops spoken too were unable for various reasons to give clear direction and advice for my sizing ie. L vs XL, and I had to take a punt, as no one stocks an XL. The XL bike has a long wheelbase and looks huge but I'm happy I chose it. It seems to fit right and in tight technical stuff so far I haven't found myself thinking its too big. And as for the dually vs hard tail debate, I think I'm a dually convert with this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan
a Cross Country Rider
from West L.A.
Date Reviewed: January 31, 2005 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1900.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo (no tax sale) | | Strengths: | so much has already been said. The effeciency and up-hill climbing abilities of this bike are second to none. | | Weaknesses: | the stock pedals need to go, injured myself when I couldn't seem to clip out, changed to different pedals and no more problems. Also the paint seems to chip a bit too easy. | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | Upgraded to Thomson seatpost and stem, enduro carbon bar, XTR cassette, and XTR front derailer | | Bottom Line: | Luv it. It came down to this bike or the Stumpy disc, which was about $200 more. I was sold on the brain technology and got the epic and have been very pleased. Some say its only a great xc racing bike, I think its an all around great bike. It seems the prices on the 04's are really good if you can find one. I was lucky enough to stroll into supergo while they were having a no tax sale and 04 clearence discount back in the summer. So all in all, pick one up if you can. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego, Ca
Date Reviewed: January 31, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | 24HR Course in Tucson, AZ | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1650.00 | | Purchased At: | Bicycle Warehouse San Diego | | Strengths: | Lightweight, nice frame configuration to give you a lower center of gravity-Brain is sweet as honey-fox shox gives a great ride-climbs like a little spider monkey | | Weaknesses: | the color-wish it was ano-- | | Similar Products Used: | GT Ruckus-Giant Fuel-Rockhopper Comp 120 | | Bike Setup: | stock for now... | | Bottom Line: | This bike was the best value I could think of. When I was pricing bikes, I was looking at the Ruckus or the Fuel. Since the comp was a 2004 model, they cut the price and thus had the bike sold. I was also sold on the ride this thing delivers. Smooth as silk on washouts. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Michael Reding
a Cross Country Rider
from Albuquerque, NM, USA
Date Reviewed: January 9, 2005 | | Favorite Trail: | Foothills | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | Albuquerque Bicycle Center | | Strengths: | The Brain and the frame are great values for the money. It is stiff enough and stout. I weigh about 250 and don't feel it flex when I ride out of the saddle. It is a great bike for either a racer or a Clydesdale. | | Weaknesses: | The ride is a little on the harsh side since the travel is limited on the fork. A longer fork with more travel would help raise the bottom bracket. The bottom bracket is too low so I "wank the cranks" too often. | | Similar Products Used: | None. The closest is an '84 Stumpjumper. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for Cane Creek bar ends and Mythos XC tire (the Japanese ones with the red sidewalls). | | Bottom Line: | I think like most Specialized Mountain Bikes it offers good value. I tend to buy a bike and ride it into the ground (I still ride a 1984 Stumpy when my regular ride is in the shop). Eventually, I will put a new fork on it to raise the bottom bracket and improve the steering but want to get the "sweetness" out of all the parts before upgrading. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Richard Boehmer
a Racer
from San Antonio, Texas
Date Reviewed: December 30, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Local shop | | Strengths: | Frame is high quality. Fox shock is great. Fox Brain shock is awesome. | | Weaknesses: | The original LX front derailer is insufficient for this bike. Upgrade to XTR. Original crankset is ok. XT or XTR is recommended. | | Bike Setup: | New additions to bike: Mavic Cross Max XL UST wheels; XT crankset; XTR front derailer; XT rear cassette; S-Works Carbon straight bar; Italia SLR seat (135g); FSA Carbon seat post... Have also gone tubeless tires. Have run Python and Michelin XCR. | | Bottom Line: | I purchased this bike in November 2003 (bike is a 04'). This is my second post for this bike and is my follow-up review for the year (see post 2/1/04). I have done upgrades to it during the year (see set up). The bike is now under 26lbs. So what do I think? It was worth every penny. The bike is awesome! The brain shock does everything Specialized says it does. I haven't touched it since dailing in the proper air pressure and rebound adjust. At the races when the other guys are trying to lock out to sprint, I'm already gone! She handles like a dream. And I've long gotten over the white color of the frame. Funny thing is everyone compliments the white color. I've done solo XC races, time trails, 12 hour endurance races with this bike. It's been all over Texas. In July I took it up to Crested Butte Colorado and did some serious mountain biking up in some real mountains. Currently have close to 1,000 miles on it. also have 2,000 miles on Specialized road bike in the last year. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dylan MacDonald
a Racer
from Santa Cruz, California
Date Reviewed: December 21, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | The "R" | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | The Spokesman | | Strengths: | Brain technology kills all other rear suspension. Light and very comfortable. Really makes you more ambitios on downhill sections, since it's an FSR bike. Climbs like a spider! And a complete steal for the price! | | Weaknesses: | Somewhat uncomfortable seat...don't know if that counts. Other than that, none at all! | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Hardrock Comp, '02 model. | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | This is my first FSR bike and i really have to say, it makes a pretty good impression. Compared to my old Hardrock, this one is a monster on the climbs and the downhills. I have found myself doing a lot more downhill than ever before now that I have rear suspension. If you have the money, GET IT! It will be a choice you will never regret. It'll make you never go back to hardtails!!! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
William Watkins
a Cross Country Rider
from Albuquerque,NM, USA
Date Reviewed: November 21, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | 365 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2400.00 | | Purchased At: | ABQ Cycles | | Strengths: | Light weight and responsive. Climbs like your dreams. Trail ready components. People can buy this entire bike for the same price as the "custom" frame and fork options out there. | | Weaknesses: | It isn't cool to ride Shimano or Specialized. White frames are not cool. I could care less. | | Similar Products Used: | Everything hardtail and reasonably priced | | Bike Setup: | Thomson, Chris King, etc., because it is my hobby | | Bottom Line: | This bike is a steal considering the price. Forget the color. It handles like a pro. The parts are fine unless you race or are an addict like me and want to have the best of the best. Set the shock up right and you are smooth. Buy it, | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jamie Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from Christchurch, New Zealand
Date Reviewed: November 18, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Craigeburn, Sth Island | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | John Bull Cycles | | Strengths: | Climbs like a rat up a drain pipe & comes down just as quick. Smooth & responsive ride. | | Weaknesses: | Light in the front end. This is the 2005 model with flat bars. Does need bar ends. | | Similar Products Used: | GT Avalanche | | Bike Setup: | Flat Bars, XTR rear mech, XT Discs, Fox RLT 100's | | Bottom Line: | Sweet bike. If you have been exclusively hardtail & wondering about the concept of an FS that thinks it's a hardtail - give the Epic a try. You won't look back. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brae Patten
a Racer
from Boulder, Co, U.S.A
Date Reviewed: October 10, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Walker Ranch | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$720.00 | | Purchased At: | ebay | | Strengths: | The bike is extremly light for full suspension. The brain works like a dream. I used to be able to climb fast with my hardtail but I couldn't ride downhill for crap. But with this bike you can climb fast and there is no uncomfortable bobbing, and when you start down you can fly because of the rear suspension. | | Weaknesses: | When you find one let me know | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | Sram x-7 | | Bottom Line: | This is the best bike in the world. you can climb and the bike feels like a hardtail, but when you start going down it is an incredibly smooth and fast ride. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ronaldo
a Cross Country Rider
from Keystone, Colorado, USA
Date Reviewed: September 23, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Peaks Trail | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Purchased At: | Mountain Sports Outlet | | Strengths: | Sweet suspension!! Fox F80RLT and Float R with Brain (inertia valve) smooths out the rough stuff. The Brain really works!! Very nimble bike. Excellent climber. Avid brakes are really nice. Frame is top notch and a cool silver. | | Weaknesses: | Front end very light on steep climbs....sometimes hard to keep down. Maybe some bar ends will help. Planning to change the low-rise xc bar to a flat bar. Specialized is actually going back to the flat bar for 2005. Size medium feels a bit a cramped at first but just a few adjustments was needed to get dialed in. | | Similar Products Used: | '96 Marin Pine Mountain w/ Manitou Mach 5SX and '95 Trek 930 w/ Manitou 4. | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | Love this bike!!! I'm not sure I'll want to go back to a hardtail after riding this bike. The Epic is not as light as my Marin but the Epic's suspension makes up for it. Finally gave in to the FS "fad" after riding a hardtail for years.....no regrets. Definitely designed for the cross country rider. Excellent value for the money. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mason Martin
a Cross Country Rider
from Canada
Date Reviewed: September 15, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | bing bang | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1750.00 | | Purchased At: | velo st onge | | Strengths: | Light for ds, well made, decent components, strong brakes, brain is great coming off a hardtail! | | Weaknesses: | Seat sucks and the pedals have to go but thats about it, oh yeah, theres the brain fart as well (not really a weakness) | | Similar Products Used: | Moonracer, jeykll 800, specialized rockhopper | | Bike Setup: | Shimano dx pedals the rest is stock (for now) | | Bottom Line: | A really good looking bike that climbs like dog in heat up your leg, fast down hill in the narly stuff, xtr rear shifts like a dream, decent fork with lockout and the brain IS really good. It is by far the best setup for a DS for the money! Everything else in the price range is now dated. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dustin Bilthouse
a Racer
from Atlanta, GA
Date Reviewed: September 13, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | The Ag Center | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Purchased At: | CycleWorks | | Strengths: | All around Fox suspension is super plush, like riding on a cloud. The Brain works as it should, locks out for a hardtail feel, kicks in when the duel suspension is needed. | | Weaknesses: | Handle bars, seatpost, and saddle all had to go, decent equipment, just not my style. Not to sure about the LX Front Derailer...I imagine it will go within the next 3 months. | | Similar Products Used: | Fisher's & trek's, all hardtails...mmmm love em'. | | Bike Setup: | Swapped the "whatever brand" cranks for a set of XT cranks, threw on the Easton EC90 Flat bar (almost a must, this increased the bikes handling, which helps cause the Epic loves to acelerate), and added a Selle Italia titanium rail gel saddle ( the stock saddle gave me some pain in my back and knees, I guess I'm just spoiled! | | Bottom Line: | This bike loves to go and will take you on lines you never though possible. Climbs like a champ, the brain makes climbing like that of a hardtail. The Epic flies on the downhill, this is when the Fox suspension really pays off. I often find myself on the outside of burms now, holding on for dear life as the Epic acelerates to break neck speeds. The key to this ride is the setup, and I'm not talking about fancy components. It's all in the way you tune in the suspension with your ride style. I must admit, i wasn't to impressed at first with the Epic, I thought it was sluggish and wobbly. It took two days to get the bike's rear and front suspension tuned to my style, from there on out it's be bliss ever since. I love this bike, if it was a girl i'd marry it, which explains why they painted it white. If you'd like to see pictures of what I've done to my Epic feel free to email me. Also, I agree with an earlier post I read, the stock tread has got to go. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jeff
a Cross Country Rider
from San Jose, CA
Date Reviewed: August 30, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Soquel Demo Forest (SDF) / Wilder Ranch / China Camp | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Mike's Bike Shop in Palo Alto | | Strengths: | Everything mentioned above.
| | Weaknesses: | The white is terrible. If I could do it again.. I'd go for the S-Works. The white is starting to erode in a few areas. I thought this was oil or dirt. But it is some type of stain on the paint. Really odd.
The cranks are starting to sqeek and give way. The seat begins to losen up and move on you. | | Similar Products Used: | Rockkhopper Hardtail, Jekyll 1000 | | Bike Setup: | All components stock. P | | Bottom Line: | If you get this bike. Clean it regularly... not the components... but the frame. If you want it to look good.
Upgrade the seat post, tires, cranks and if you got some extra $$ left.. the front derailiur.
I plan on swapping out the cranks for the XTR 952, the cassette XTR 960.
I've already changed the tires to WTB Mutano Laser 2.24 and the pedals.
Other than those things, everything on the bike is great if maintained. No real need to upgrade anything else.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
STEPHAN ELSEN
a Cross Country Rider
from BRUSSELS-BELGIUM
Date Reviewed: June 29, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$3000.00 | | Purchased At: | MOVING STORE BRUSSELS | | Strengths: | Reactivity, supensions works when adjusted, design, fairly good equipment for the price. This bike is so responsive that you can't prevent yourself from accelerating... | | Weaknesses: | Brain preload asks to be very accurate to ensure decent shocks absorption. Fox 100RL works nice even locked but would have been better if the travel was adjustable: in middle range climbs, front wheel takes off.... | | Similar Products Used: | Own Cannondale F500, Jekyll 700 ELO for 2 years | | Bike Setup: | Mainly stock - handle bars to compensate overlight front wheel when climbing. | | Bottom Line: | When my Jekyll was stolen, I tried to find the holy graal by reading all the reviews like you probably do now. I was so happy with the Jekyll that I wanted to by the 800 with the propedal.
In the meantime, the reseller moved from Cannondale to spe and gave me its test bike for 2 weeks ( !!! ). I just live near a forest and I intensively rode on fairly good singletracks, I was very impressed by the faculty to go fast. In climbs, on flat tracks or going down hills, you only think to push harder and harder.
Second try left me with doubts, I rode on very bad tracks ( very close small bumps ) and the brain didn't anymore; I felt like having a broken back. Does it work only on big hits ?
On reseller advised, I decreased a very little the air pressure and all came back allright. I can't stop now from riding ( +- 35 kms in forests every 2 days after work ) and dream about it all the day.
So it is sure not a comfy bike, but it does its job and rather well. This bike will make you feel like a pro xc racer whithout leaving you broken after a 60 kms deep forest trip.
Specialized offers test bikes, take the time to adjust the brain and enjoy it... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Robert
a Weekend Warrior
from Miami, Florida, USA
Date Reviewed: June 11, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Oleta | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Biketech | | Strengths: | XTR Rear derailluer, Brain technology, solid light frame | | Weaknesses: | LX front derailluer - ripped up on me on the first ride out after a medium sized jump.
| | Similar Products Used: | Old TREK 500 hardtail | | Bike Setup: | Factory set up from Specialized. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is completely kick ass. I came from a hardtail background so going to a full suspension set up was like going from a Gremlin to to a Rolls.
For the price you'd think that they would have put XTR up front just like in the back. The bike is bad ass enough to justify a slight price hike to throw XTR all around.
Brother-in-law has a Gary Fisher Sugar 3 and the Specialized keeps right up there with it.
Great buy! If you are on the fence about the bike - get off and jump it with the Specialized! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Tarek D.
a Cross Country Rider
from Montreal
Date Reviewed: May 29, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2850.00 | | Strengths: | Crowd pleaser, great confort, effortless climbs. | | Weaknesses: | Cheap Stock components, no adjustement on Fox Brain like Epic Marathon. Hate the white color. | | Similar Products Used: | 2003 Cannondale Scalpel 3000, Giant NRS, Giant atx | | Bike Setup: | Easton Carbon riser,XT shifters,crank,front derailleur,Easton carbon seatpost,Time Atac Carbon | | Bottom Line: | Its about time Specialized did something right. Everyone laughs at the old FSR Stumpjumper at my club, but this bike earns your respect.
I've purchased this bike 2 days ago and I love the confort of the rear suspension. I'm feeling remorsefull, I gave a deposit on a Scalpel 3000 but they were out of stock t'ill end of June.
Once all the cheap Deore and Lx crap were removed from the bike,I feel confident that this bike will equal the best bikes from any other company. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Marcelo Quiroz
a Cross Country Rider
from california
Date Reviewed: May 20, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | waterdog/belmont ca. | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1900.00 | | Purchased At: | Go ride | | Strengths: | great bike.perfect suspension ,good looking,very reliable,smooth.It rides like a mercedes benz.It corners like a porsche 911.it climbs like a hummer | | Weaknesses: | none at this point | | Similar Products Used: | trek 4900 hartail | | Bike Setup: | Tx disc brakes,continental vertical pro tires,thompson steem(110-5)easton handlebar,easton carbon seatpost,Tx shifters,shimano Tx crankset and pedals,tx front and rear derraileur | | Bottom Line: | My best friend bought and epic first,this is the kind of bike that the only thing that you have to do is ride it for a minute after that you start thinking how Iam going to get the money to buy one. I bought the frame first,and then I order all the components.Finally after the worst 5 days of waiting (for the componets to arrive), i build it and let me tell you this is a real winner it is a superior bike no question about it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
patrick stein
a
from McHenry, MD. USA
Date Reviewed: May 1, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | any in West Virginia | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Purchased At: | Frankford Bike | | Strengths: | Its fast and efficient design. Fox fork, VALUE | | Weaknesses: | None at this price point | | Similar Products Used: | I have a Gary Fisher SuperCaliber vintage 91 that I loved too long, tried to replace it last year with Cannondale hard-tail F600: buyers remorse thank -you E-bay buyer. Occassional DS rides on Sugar and Specialized Enduro were good but I didn't fully appreciate the DS advantage until I bought this bike. My sincerest thanks to all the people who posted all the reviews on all the bikes to this site. I've read them all. | | Bike Setup: | Great bike stock but, bike lust got the best of me... Easton Carbon bar, post,
Easton stem, Crank Bros. pedals, Michelin rear tire. I like the stock on the front, and I'm a seat fuss on my road and other bikes, but I really like this stock seat. | | Bottom Line: | I had no intention on getting back into bike racing; I haven't raced since road bikes some 8-10 years ago, but this bike impressed me so much with it's superior performance on my familiar trials that I felt I had to race it. Entered the Sport Vet 35-45 mens (I'm 41, 6'1, 168) of the Big Bear Classic, 19 miles of rock and climb and decent single-track in West Virginia and was able to finish 6th in my class. This bike is that good, I can't wait to race again. Mountain Bike Racers seemed so much friendlier and congenial then I recall roadies being. Get this bike and go racing... what a great experience.
Thanks too this site and all the people who take time to post to it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Derek
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego, CA
Date Reviewed: April 29, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Noble Canyon (where else?!?) | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Strengths: | Stable, fast, light, brainy. | | Weaknesses: | some components (see below) | | Similar Products Used: | hardtails | | Bike Setup: | standard epic disk, except upgraded seat, seatpost, ft derailer, tires | | Bottom Line: | I ride with a bunch of avid cross-country racers and got tired of watching them sit and crank over baby-head (large river rock) sections while I got pounded having to stand up and crank.
Finally snapped and bought an Epic. Three of our group have them and were all very pleased.
So after 3 months of riding, here is what I have found. First my complaints:
1. Wheels. The specialized Roll-X wheels suck. They spin out, don't roll very well, and don't hold on anything loose. Change them out immediately. Biggest performance enhancment you can do. Try the 2.1 Panaracer Fire XC with anti-SB.
2. LX front derailler. It cost me $20 for an XT on sale. What are they thinking selling a $2000 plus bike with that piece of crap? Don't get me wrong, it works great for the first couple of months, downhill from there.
3. Seat. Uncomfortable. Maybe personnel taste.
4. Some other components could/should have been better for the price of the bike, but they have performed just fine so far.
Now for the good stuff:
1. Suspension works great. I came from a hard tail to this and so have only know bob when borrowing out a friends bike. The suspension kicks-in whenever anything substantial gets in your way. Baby-heads . . . just sit and pedal through them in comfort and style. Can't say enough about it.
2. Afetr changing out the tires, the bike is fast but controllable. Tons of technical sections, drops, and steep downhill on the trails I ride. No problem. I am faster, more confident, and clean more hairy trails than ever.
Bottom line: I can't talk about pure downhill riding, but for XC, this bike really kicks some tail.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Richard T.
a Cross Country Rider
from San Antonio, TX, USA
Date Reviewed: April 29, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | OP Shenabel | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2400.00 | | Purchased At: | Planet Bike | | Strengths: | Good Compenents, Fairly light, Strong Frame.. | | Weaknesses: | Not a weakness but I dont like have the LX shifters and Lx front Der. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek Fuel 90 | | Bike Setup: | Stock - XTR rear der., LX front der., LX Shifters, Deore Hyd. Disc Brakes, Fox Float 100 forx, Maxix 2XX wheels, etc. | | Bottom Line: | I first rode the Epic last year when they first came out, and immediately fell in love with it but could not afford it at the time. I finally convinced my wife to let me buy one a few months ago, and I love it.
The brain shock works awesome. On downhills it could be a little easier on the ass but the front Fox Forx make up for the rear. On Cross Crounty, it is a nice comfortable ride. On rock beds there is no side-to-side slipping and the brain shock says your ass from taking a pounding. Climbs? OOH my GOD! This thing can climb.. On my first ride I was able to climb higher and faster on hills that I was never able to make on my Trek.
The fox front forx provider a very nice ride. On my Trek there were a few step offs that I would prepare to take a pounding on, but with the Epic the landing is so nice that it doesnt even feel like you just took a drop.
I only wish that Specialized would have used XT components in place of the LX. No Biggy! I know that it keeps the retail price down a bit.
I am 5'9" and weigh 150 lbs, the front and rear fox shocks can be adjusted to any weight so I would definately recommend this bike to any cross country/hill climbing rider who likes doing some mild down hill riding. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jason
a Cross Country Rider
from Nanaimo, BC
Date Reviewed: April 23, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2100.00 | | Strengths: | Brain shock works great for cross-country. Excellent components for the money. Climbs like a mountain goat. | | Weaknesses: | Slight trade-off from a fully active suspension on the downhills. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Stumpjumper, Foes FXC | | Bike Setup: | Stock. Have not had the urge to change a thing. | | Bottom Line: |
This bike a great machine for long distance cross country riders or even racers. My last bike was a Foes FXC which was an excellent bike all-around bike, until the frame cracked after five years of very hard riding.Consequently, I am used to a plush dual-suspension ride.
The Epic is not as plush as the Foes. The brain shock does require a slight upwards pressure from a first bump to activate the shock which is a change from the fully active dampening of the Foes. At first, this was a concern; However, I have come to the conclusion that the very slight trade off in downhill shock performance is more than offset by the overall improvement in pedaling efficiency that is realized from the brain shock.
This bike climbs like a dream. I am amazed at the logs and rocks that I can clear with the bike thanks to it's relatively higher bottom bracket. On the downhills, it is extremely responsive and nimble, even more so than my old Foes. Where this bike excels, though, is in longer cross country rides. I can spend several hours on the bike with no discomfort whatsoever.
What made me pick this bike over a new Foes or the Santa Cruz Blur (which is the bike of choice for several friends) was simply the price. Specialized is unsurpassed at putting quality components on their bikes for hundreds less than their competitors and they have hit the mark wth this bike. Nothing proves this more than the fact that I am actually riding, comfortably, 4+ hours on a stock seat for the first time in my life. I have no plans to change anything on this bike until something breaks. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Nigel
a Cross Country Rider
from New Zealand
Date Reviewed: April 12, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | tree trunk gorge | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Strengths: | Handles just like you would expect. Suspension works you you need it and doesnt when you dont. | | Weaknesses: | Skimped on certain parts to achieve a price point. Hubs, seat pole, brkaes, shifters, etc. | | Bike Setup: | Carbon specialized epic comp, easton bars, thompson seat pole, flite seat, michelin comp s, stans no tubes, | | Bottom Line: | Test rode and read all reviews i could find on epic and decided this was the way to go. Does exactly what you want a xc race bike to do. Be prepared to spend a few bucks upgrading some of the cheap components fitted to this bike and you are away. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Crusty
a Weekend Warrior
from Maine
Date Reviewed: April 11, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Widowmaker @ Sugarloaf | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2100.00 | | Purchased At: | Center Street Cycles | | Strengths: | The "Brain" works as advertised! The Fox 100RL fork Awsome! Parts Spec is nice, mostly LX with XTR rear derailer. | | Weaknesses: | Maybe the price. But if you bought just the frame,it would cost you about $1900. Then add everything else,well you do the math. So I guess the price isn't much of a weakness. | | Similar Products Used: | 95 Specialized Rockerhopper A1 Comp,96 GT Avalanche Le,01 Trek 8000 Disc | | Bike Setup: | The bike is stock, may add a few things later. | | Bottom Line: | I decided to go full suspension after riding the Widowmaker trail at Sugarloaf Mountain in Maine last year.I'm 41 and riding that trail on a hardtail kicked my ass!
First off I spent many many months researching FS bikes from diffrent companies. Everything I looked for in a FS bike pointed towards the Epic. This isn't the typical FS bike, it doesn't have a ton of rear travel. I've only riden the bike a couple of times,so it's not alot to go by. I was skeptical if it worked as advertised,it does. On the road over to our local trail the bike worked as a hardtail. The suspension went to work on the curbs and small stairs we road along the way. On the dirt the "Brain" did more of the same, worked flawlessly! On climbs there was no "bob" at all,again worked as advertised. Then on the downhill run soaked up the roots and ruts smooth as butter! To sum things up,this bike rocks!
If you want the best of both worlds check this bike out. Test ride one at your LBS, try your friends, if they have one. It's not for the freerider or the downhiller, just the crosscountry riders or the old farts like me, who just can't take the pounding any more!
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matt Fulks
a Racer
from Oklahoma City, OK
Date Reviewed: March 28, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | NuDraper | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2150.00 | | Purchased At: | Wheeler Dealer in OKC | | Strengths: | Highly adjustable, disc brakes, Roll X pro tires, brain rear shock, Fox Float fork, XTR rear der. outstanding ride! | | Weaknesses: | Specialized catalog and website says this bike comes with the adjustable brain. This is a typo, but no big deal. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek Liquid 20 | | Bike Setup: | Stock! I can't find a thing to upgrade! | | Bottom Line: | This bike has improved my riding immensely! I was riding a Trek 8000 hardtail before this. My average speed increased by 2 mph! It tracks like it's on rails. For a racer, this is the ultimate bike. I can't think of a thing on this bike that needs to be upgraded from stock. The components, saddle, tires etc, are all great! I especially love the Specialized Roll X Pro tires. They grip like glue to everything, and if you get a flat, you can get them off the rim by hand. I don't even carry tire tools anymore. The brain really works like they say. I'm a huge skeptic, and I was VERY skeptical when I bought this bike. It does need to be adjusted as far as air pressure and rebound to whatever you weigh. It makes a big difference. When I stand up and hammer on this thing, there is no noticeable bob. It climbs better than my hardtail did. Some might say that the rear suspension is a bit harsh. If you're just looking for something to ride on and not race and have a lot of suspension, look at the Trek Liquid. But if you want a great bike that will improve your riding skills or at least make you think you're a better rider, get an Epic. Especially if you do any kind of racing at all. I'd say this bike almost gives you an unfair advantage over people who don't have one. It's that good. For the first time in years, I can't think of another bike I'd rather have. It's worth the money! Matt | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
DUDE
a Cross Country Rider
from My home town
Date Reviewed: February 12, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | All singletracks | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | Local bike shop | | Strengths: | The components are excellent, greate forks, and the suspension (brain) really works as advertised.Frame is light enuf, I love the color.The whole bike looks good.As for how it rides, well you need to adjust it to your measurments/weight, and just pedal away.It climbs, it descends ,very easy to manoover and extremly fast! I am not a skilled biker, just picked up mtb-ing a year ago, but I am faster than all my friends that are much better than I am. This bike builds your confidense. | | Weaknesses: | You need few good rides to brake it in. Specially the disk brakes, but they do improove by minute. After a ride of 2 hours they improved by 50%,..if you could measure this somehow....other than that, no weaknesses, really! This bike is perfect with stock components. The only worry I have is not to leave it out of my sight. | | Similar Products Used: | None.I can't really compare to any other bikes as I am new to this sport | | Bike Setup: | Standard OEM | | Bottom Line: | I bought this bike because I read many good reviews and articles about hte last year model. I tested few other full suspension bikes in the parking lot at the buke shop ,they where heavy, slower, and very wobbling/bobbing.
I also liked the RockyMountain ETSX70 but it was to rigid when going over bumps/curves. This bike just amazed me from the moment I've got on. It performes great on the trak, and overall,...I would suggest it to anybody who want a reliable all day riding machine. ATTENTION:Not built for huge drops. If you are into droping from the roof of your house or freeride, this bike is not for you.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
luke
a Weekend Warrior
from tampa,fl. usa
Date Reviewed: February 5, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | alafia | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | revolution | | Strengths: | The suspension on this bike is excellent. The best compliment i can give it is that it just works as advertised.Acts like a hard tail when the terrain is smooth..turns into a full suspension bike when it gets rough and then firms up again...really good stuff.Didn't really care for the white color at first but now i like it...seems kind of high tech instead of a flashy paint job.I am a middle aged rider getting back into the sport..this is my second bike in the last 6 months.I weigh 220 lbs and am 5' 11'..no problem setting up the bike for myself or my stepson(yea sometimes i let him ride it..hehe) he is 145 lbs and is also 5'11...so it sets up well for different weights.I am obviously going faster on this bike with less work..this bike rocks!! | | Weaknesses: | Brakes were kind of weak until i got about 100 - 125 miles on it and then they improved greatly.Bike is so nice i am afraid someone is going to steal it.Really no weaknesses at all. | | Similar Products Used: | First full suspension bike..but demo'd many of the other "hot" bikes in this price range. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for Thompson stem 100 mm 15 deg rise | | Bottom Line: | Did i mention this bike rocks??? Suspension is awesome steering is very accurate,shifting is great,finish is great ,etc.I could not be happier with this bike..oh and by the way...this bike %&*#@ ROCKS. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alex
a Cross Country Rider
from Toronto, ON,Canada
Date Reviewed: February 5, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | All single tracks | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | D'Ornella Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Everything, really! I was looking for more than 6 months for a bike that will ride well on all kinds of terain. And this is it. it climbs so well compared to my old bike, that I actually accelerate and I have to shift gears up as it becomes to easy on climbs where I used to shift down and barely make it to the top. This bike is fast, easy to handle and very responsive. | | Weaknesses: | Well , I did not like the colour at all. Iwas ready to pay a extra 1000$ just to get the "Marathon" for the sole reasone of the paint job. I am happy I didn't ,as would have been a waste. After riding this bike, and putting some dirt on it, it really looks much better. I start to love the color now as it doesnt look so cheesy as all the shiny /glittery bikes out there. It really looks like a pro'! | | Similar Products Used: | None | | Bike Setup: | Standard. I just put on a specialized pro computer and prepared some spare road tires for ocasional road rides. | | Bottom Line: | This bike is the only bike you need: hard tail, full suspension, road bike too! Just have a spare no groove road tires and you can be right in the front of the flock when going with your road bike buddies as this bike is fast, light and act like a hard tail. Go on trails, and your confidense will grow, you will be able to climb hills that before you did not dare to take on. With this bike the only weakness is you.
For the money you pay you got a whole lot with this bike. I love the brain shocks, they do work as sopose to. It needs some time to brake in the disk brakes but after a 1 hour ride they are firm and powerful.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Richard
a Racer
from San Antonio, Texas
Date Reviewed: February 1, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Strengths: | Front shock, rear fox shock with Specialized brain, frame set up, disc brakes. Componentry set up for the price is great! | | Weaknesses: | If I HAD to find something negative to say about this bike I would have to say the color. White? For an Epic Comp disc Specialized could have chosen a more exciting color. Upon my initial 1st look of this bike I wasn't interested in it at all. The color turned me off. What sold me on the bike was when one of my riding buddies purchased one and let me take it out on a 5 mile run through some trails. I quickly overlooked the color issue after that and made my purchase. The other thing is more of a personal item. I don't like the bars that come with the bike. Too me they are too long and I don't like the way they curve. I opted to put the Specialized S-Works straight carbon bar with Yetti grips. Gave the bike a much better feel for me (easier to navigate and wieve thru trees), not to mention it dropped the weight of the bike by 1lb! | | Similar Products Used: | Previous bike was a Trek Y11, a 1997 model. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except Carbon S-Works bar. | | Bottom Line: | This is an outstanding purchase for your $ if you are a serious MTB'er and are looking for a great bike that offers it all. The rear brain does exactly what Specialized says it does. You have a hardtail on smooth ground, and it reacts only when you hit bumbs. When you purchase the bike you must adjust the rear shock according to your weight (read manual) as well as adjust the rebound dial to your riding style. Once this is done the ride is the best of both worlds! The front shock is great as well. Has lockout and rebound adjust with 100mm travel! This is my 1st set of disc brakes and I have to say the hydraulic set up is the way to go! Very sensative brakes and they will stop you on a dime! Low mainentance as well. You just need to clean them routinely just as you should the bike as they will make noise as dirt gets into the brake calipers. Spray them down with disc spray cleaner every 2-3 rides and you won't have that noise. When shopping for your full suspension bike make sure you take a serious look a the Epic! You won't be dissapointed..... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ara
a Cross Country Rider
from Glendale , CA
Date Reviewed: January 30, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Off the Top linked with Breakthrough, mammoth mt. bike park | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Glendale Cyclery | | Strengths: | adjustable Fox Float forks . Hard Tail efficient on climbs , cushions on the downhill. Alot of control when riding this rig. Could accelerate with a single stroke, so efficient. the bike finish is nice , the geometry and craftsmanship is good. | | Weaknesses: | Changed the stock tires with Fire XC Pros 2.1 , dont know why but the stock tires kicked up alot of rocks into my face. The Shimano disk brakes squeal on long downhills , especially the back. Done it couple of times , guess its a sign to let go of the brakes and fly down haha
Dialing in the Brain took awhile. Kept on bumping me off the seat , not a weakness after its dialed in. | | Similar Products Used: | GT I-Drive (2001, before going bankrupt) 2003 Specialized Enduro Expert | | Bike Setup: | Finally Specialized fixed their seats for '04 , for now i'm staying with them. Everything else is stock except tires i mentioned above. | | Bottom Line: | Going from an Enduro to an Epic was a big transition. Used to the pogo-stick suspension, now to a more rough suspension.Whatever i lost on vertical motion is now added to my horizontal motion . Beating my personal bests on local trails and whooping on my brother feels really good. But it sure goes fast both ways on the mountain. I have over 200 miles on it since December and havent taken it back to the LBS. Doug Jackson is the best at Glendale Cyclery. Looking forward to a good season of racing with this cheetah . If anybody wants to go riding just send me an email , rip some good trails. Ride On .
Buck for buck , pound for pound , this rig is perfect for the amateur racer. giving it a 5 .
Overall , going to give a 4 because it kicks my ass haha | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
tony martin
a Cross Country Rider
from monrovia, CA USA
Date Reviewed: January 29, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | san gabriel mountains/deserts | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Temple City Bike Shop (strongly recommend if you're in LA area) | | Strengths: | No power loss on climbs. Outstanding Fox fork. Component spec is good for price. Good discs (I believe all mtbs. should have discs) | | Weaknesses: | Have had some small problems with the 515 pedals. Would like to see a more fun paint job, after all this is supposed to be a "sports and leisure" thing (black and white reminds me of work). May replace seatpost someday. Saddle is really OK> | | Similar Products Used: | tried everything: Fuel, Liquid, Blur, Superlight, NRS, xTC, Scalpel, Jeckyll--contact me for my ride notes on all of these. After all of this research I went with the Epic because I want to ride like hell and I don't want to tinker with my machine. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for Monkeylite riser bars and Raceface crankset (a very good set of Shimano Hollowtechs came with the bike which I put on my hardtail, wouldn't have swapped otherwise) | | Bottom Line: | This is a bike for the overall trip: very slightly slower on the climbs and MUCH faster on the downhills. Not for the rider who requires tons of travel or who wants a barcalounger on wheels. The Brain, which has been modified for '04, works very well and keeps that rear wheel on the ground.
Had one episode of chainsuck and after the required four letter words discovered that I had speared an acorn with my front der.
Remote lockouts, etc. seem like a good idea, but if you're screaming along or are putting in a lot of effort or if your're trying to drop some guy you'll appreciate the Brain for letting you power forward while it helps with the terrain. I like to ride very hard and I'm very competitive so the Epic was the bike for my style. I believe the value of this bike increases with use. I also believe that an excellent shop will help you set this thing up so then you can forget it and just ride like hell.
Don't buy this bike if you don't want to ride a lot. Don't buy it if you want to jump off of cliffs, buildings or second story windows. DO buy if you like to be competitive and you like the additional control of rear suspension as you fly down hills.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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