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Submitted by
Jim
a Cross Country Rider
from Marin, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: July 30, 2006 | | Favorite Trail: | Worn Springs & Eldridge Grade | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2600.00 | | Purchased At: | Mike's Bikes | | Strengths: | Amazing Bike! M5 Frame and Brain rear shock let you climb like a mountain goat and descend with ease. | | Weaknesses: | Shimano disc brakes seize! Seat post slips gradually. | | Similar Products Used: | N/A | | Bike Setup: | 2006 Epic Comp Disc stock | | Bottom Line: | This is an amazing bike and an amazing value! I strongly recomend it. The M5 frame in conjunction with the brain rear shock technology allow for effortless climbing and descending.
I just want to warn everyone about the Shimano stock brakes. To be fair, I basically ride uphill and then down about 4 times a week (about 5,000-6,000 feet in elevation gain a week, I'm about 200lbs.) My rear brake started seizing within about 2 months. Shimano took about 3 weeks to send a replacement for the defective brake(unbled of course). (apparently they misplaced it for a while). Anyway I put a Juicy rear Brake on instead and have not had a problem since.
I now am a little over 6 months into the bike and my front Shimano brake is beginning to seize. I just dropped off my bike to replace the front shimano brake with another Juicy.
One other little minor issue, after about 2 hours of riding I need to re-adjust the seat post as it slides down a bit.
Let me be clear I would buy this bike again in a heart beat! This is a great bike! If you like to ride up and down on varying dirt/rock terrain this is the bike for the value. I just wish it came stock with different brakes. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jared
a Cross Country Rider
from Indianapolis, IN
Date Reviewed: March 19, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Grey Goat Sports | | Strengths: | Light full-suspension bike. Climbing. Brain shock. | | Weaknesses: | None | | Bike Setup: | 2006 Epic Comp stock. | | Bottom Line: | I switched to the 2006 epic comp from a 2005 stumpjumper HT. Normal rides vary from technical to fast xc single track. Rides are usually from 7-21 miles long.
I immediately noticed fatigue reduction. The first ride was a 20 miler and my back felt the best it has ever felt. I've always been a devout hardtailer b/c I love the more technical "trials" things you can do with a HT and I've been apprehensive to the switch. I must say that the epic descended and climbed instantly faster and in more control than I thought possible. Pedal bob was not even an issue or even approached annoyance in any way. The brain shock is simply amazing, my opinion the best thing out there and has 100mm of rear travel. You get the best of both worlds (HT and FS) due to its selective dampening tech. Pedal bob was a major factor keeping me from switching and I must say it is not an issue.
I ride with 2 other guys with older epics and several little adjustments have been made to the new frame that seem to be better. Epic comp now has M5 frame which last year I believe was used on some S-Works models, tubing is slightly different in shape (i.e. top tube isn't AS squarish anymore), weight is saved by reducing metal bulk at certain places, chain suck into the chainstay at the crank end has been greatly reduced if not solved by giving the chain plenty more room there (my friends old epic's chainstay has completely worn straight to the metal, mine has a new indentation there that gives plenty more room), the FSR rear linkage seems to be slightly different than the older linkage--possibly weight savings or more efficient, Brain shock in rear has the adjustment knobs in different places (some like the new places better), fox front fork is quality, tough, and plush, and that's all I can think of right now.
Bottom line, this bike is solid, light FS, handles superb, climbs and descends excellent, great parts pkg., Great bike. Can handle super technical and flies. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Derrick Broderick
a Cross Country Rider
from Bowmanville, Ontario
Date Reviewed: November 17, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | 3 rocks | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$3000.00 | | Purchased At: | Impala Bicycles, Whitby | | Strengths: | Rear suspension - Brain Shock connected to Horst 4 bar linkage is second to none. Overall fit and finish of the bike. | | Weaknesses: | Chain Suck!! Front Shifting!! | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except for Time ATAC pedals, RaceFace crank and bottom bracket, Aztec Power Lines. | | Bottom Line: | I read and rely on reviews posted on this site, so it's time to give back.
I rode a home made hardtail for several years over what I now consider unchallenging trails. Took the plunge and dropped $3,000.00, plus another $500.00 in taxes to satisfy our greedy Provincial and Federal Canadian Governments! My little hobby suddenly became very expensive. Of course, biking clothes, camelbaks, tools etc. had to be updated as well. I can honestly say, I have not regretted a single cent I've spent. I was a 41 year old, overweight guy this Spring. Riding this bike on challenging trails has allowed me to drop 30 lbs and have the time of my life.
But, back to the bike. It's definately light, fast, accellerating on flats and even moderate hills. When I first got it, I had to get in better shape, just to appreciate it. I ride with my 15 year old nephew, who definately keeps my honest. His riding has improved beyond mine, but we still have fun. The Epic feels like a hardtail. There's no bob when you pedal on flats or expecially up hills. I climbed hills I would have never climbed with my old hardtail. I started looking for hills to climb. If you walk around with a hammer in your hand, pretty soon your looking for something to nail!
The Epic excells on twisty, fast singletrack and rolling hills. It's not a big jumper. Fox F80 fork says NO! But, it will handle small jumps and drop offs nicely. This is a dedicated cross country machine. Contrary to popular opinion, I found the saddle comfortable. The bottom bracket is low, though and will catch on bigger logs. The Pro Roll tires are fast and hook up well in everything but mud. I popped both the front and rear ultralight tubes within a few rides. I went with a standard tube and have had less flats. It's a good idea to carry a spare though.
My only serious complaint is chain suck and and front shifting. The chain suck is a by product of the shifting. The Epic does not like dropping into the granny gear under duress. So, if you think you're going to ride the middle chain ring into a climb to keep your momentum up and drop into the granny as you begin to grind, think again. It won't do it. You grind up in the middle chain ring, while your chain grinds the front deraileur. The distracting noise and un-planned gear selection leaves you walking. Once and a while the grinding is your chain across your chain stay as it sucks the chain between it and the granny gear. But, there is a solution (sort of) young Grasshopper. My LBS owner, gave me a shifting lesson in the parking lot one day. Essentially, the Epic must be downshifted under no weight. So, you must learn free spin the cranks, weightless, while downshifting in that little milli-second of time, just a milli-second before you would normally do it. Changing the crappy Strongarm crank to a better one doesn't solve the problem. The front deraileur is finicky. It's a Specialized thing, so I'm told. A survey of other riders on Specialized bikes on various trails more or less confirms this. I'm thinking of changing the front deraileur, but LBS guys say it won't make much, if any improvement.
If you are a cross country rider, (older guys, listen up) who is tired of your bone jarring hardtail, but wants performance, this is your bike. The hype is not hype. It does feel and climb like a hardtail. It will not be as cushy as some other softails, but you will find yourself giggling up hills and it definately soaks up the bumps, front and back. With the suspension dialed in, it feels seamless, moving from technical to fast to twisty downhill and uphill singletrack like a champ. Which is how you'll feel on a sunny Sunday, at the top of a hill, in the woods with your friends.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
steven
a Cross Country Rider
from Adelaide
Date Reviewed: September 2, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | anything rough | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2200.00 | | Strengths: | very light, excellent riding position. | | Weaknesses: | none so far | | Similar Products Used: | also tested trek fuel and jamis fs bikes | | Bike Setup: | discs fitted, otherwise stock | | Bottom Line: | cannot fault this bike. the fox front forks are fantastic and although i am anxious about the long term servicability and durability of the fox rear shocks they are so far up to expectations. this bike feels like a hardtail on the smooth stuff with the rear shox only moving when theyre supposed to. this bike is fast cross country and just as good on a tough technical section. if you want a light and fast xc bike, this is for you. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rob Lawrence
a Weekend Warrior
from London, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: August 27, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | The Normac in Haliburton Forest | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2100.00 | | Purchased At: | Toronto Bike Show | | Strengths: | The climbing capabilities are awesome for a FSR. Extremely fast bike. Flexes unbelieveable well. Corners like a dream. Very little "bob". | | Weaknesses: | Unfortunatley for me there are more weaknesses than strengths. I'm a heavier biker (205lbs) and alot of the stock components on the setup aren't holding up. (The intial cost of the bike hasn't allowed me to upgrade yet) Due to my weight I had to put in a firming kit in the front shocks. A month later I've had to replace the shocks because they're bent. They are the Maitou Skarebs. The rear shock is a nightmare to dial in. Too much air and you fly off the seat too little and you get drag. The pedals are cheap for the overall price. Chain is crap! It broke three times in a month. I've replaced with a stronger one. Within a week of getting the bike I had three flats (pinch flatting from my body weight). Surprised at the quality of some of the parts for the overall price tag. If you are a heavy rider don't get this bike unless you do some major upgrading. Also had to cut the handle bars down way to wide. And another thing when the chain falls off its a pain in the butt to get out because it gets stuck between the bottom bracket and the front rings. It just happened for the upteenth time last night during a race. It took 3mins and 42 sec to get it out. | | Similar Products Used: | Demo'd a Trek fuel and a Giant XTC prefered the ride and feel of the Specialized | | Bike Setup: | Stock: Manitou Skareb forx, Avid 3 Brake system, XT components, Mavic 221 rims,hollow tech cranks | | Bottom Line: | If you are a heavier rider think twice about this bike. It seems to be built for up to 170lb rider Max. If you have the bucks upgrade right away. With all the weaknesses I still luv riding it. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jim
a Cross Country Rider
from Guelph Ont. Canada
Date Reviewed: July 8, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Pushlich lake | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Toronto Bike show | | Strengths: | The bike lets you climb like a champ.
| | Weaknesses: | I find the brain doesn't react as fast as I think it should. ( I'm 140 lbs ) maybe it's better for full figured riders?
| | Similar Products Used: | can't realy compare, I've always rode hardtails | | Bike Setup: | stock set up, changed seat after 10 minutes, (to my old faithful). | | Bottom Line: | Love the way it handles, front fork is a dream,
I have had some issues with the chain flipping up over the rail ( is this chain suck? )
Wish I had gotten the disc model with the 04 adjustable brain ( maybe this would help with the reaction of the shock )
For the most part it's made me a lot faster rider ( I've had a lot harder and faster crashes on it )
| Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
david bailey
a Weekend Warrior
from Bedford , England
Date Reviewed: May 6, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Rowney Warren / Forest of Dean | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$3000.00 | | Purchased At: | Evans, Ludgate Circus, London | | Strengths: | Quick out of the box - so simple to set up (i'm a noob to full sus kit) - creates real confidence in any terrain.
I bought this after a couple of tests (mostly parking lots and kurb jumps), because it impressed and because big discounts are available on 2003 models now. Being a bit lardy (200lb) the set up was great, no sign of the 'over rigid' set up some of the bantam weight magazine reviewers have noticed :)
Anyway, took it home and wussed about. Not a good intro: twitchy, saddle not comfortable, etc. After a month, all that has changed. The secret is to go at everything 11/10ths. It just eats it all up. I'm faster, more confident, and looking for bigger challenges.
Fox F-80RLT is a dream. It just works. I've commuted across London in the rain with it locked out (22mile),crashed through shin deep puddles on tractor churned clay with it fully soft, and bounced down wooden steps. No complaints, no errors.
Rear shock is about 65% hardtail. Which is fine, as it instantly reacts to real bumps.
Climbs that used to leave me gasping are now 50% easier. Which means that the bike has me hunting for bigger, nastier ones in the Forest of Dean :)
What would I change? Tyres, Saddle.
Next upgrade? Disks, XT cranks (maybe ...) | | Weaknesses: | Hates to go slow. Gets twitchy if you are indecisive. :)
Stock saddle is not that comfortable until you've tried about 4000 repositionings, then it works sort-of-ok | | Similar Products Used: | Hardrock, Rockhopper, Orange Sub 5 (demo), Stumpjumper Comp | | Bike Setup: | stock, except pedals and lights | | Bottom Line: | Over 170lbs? XC and climbs your passion? Then go find one and haggle like heck - get a bargain now. Spend the money that you save over a new model on upgrades once you've explored what you can now do.
Light weight XC racer? Try it, but you might want to compare to the 2004 comp model or the 2003 Pro model (which has SID shocks that are too light for some) at about the same price
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
john
a Cross Country Rider
from sheffield,England
Date Reviewed: March 17, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | Sherwood Forest | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$900.00 | | Purchased At: | lesiure lakes bikes (notts) | | Strengths: | Lite,fast,good looks in dream silver,plush ride. | | Weaknesses: | Needs larger outer chain ring this would make it faster. | | Similar Products Used: | Marin m/vision | | Bike Setup: | Up graded to Hope mini Disc(Hydro) and Mavic xc717 rims.XT front mech as LX sucks | | Bottom Line: | Great bike, shock and forks the best.Could ride all day,Upgrades had to be done to get disc brake spec cost a total of £250.00 pounds including wheels & XT f/mech.
Making a total purchase price of £1340.00 pounds,the shop fitted it all free.If you can get Hope Mini Discs in the s
tates get em on, best discs out.
Top bike but looks that good wont let it out of my sight. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Brent
a Cross Country Rider
from Rancho Cucamonga, ca
Date Reviewed: February 8, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | pauley creek downieville, ca | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | jax bicycle center, Irvine | | Strengths: | excellent frame material, m4 rules. Best suspension design for xc riding with long hillclimbs. | | Weaknesses: | could be lighter for its intended use. | | Similar Products Used: | demo many full suspension but this is only one I liked enough to buy. | | Bike Setup: | race face crank, skareb super fork, sram 9.0 drivetrain, v brakes, xtr/517 wheels revolution spokes, flat bar, speedplay frogs | | Bottom Line: | I love this bike. It has a true cross country geometry to it meaning low bottom bracket,, long top tube, slightly steeper seat tube angle. The brain shock is magic, mine has the 04 shock with the bump threshold adjustment which is great as you get tired and want the smaller bumps absorbed.
I got just the frame and built it up myself. It is 25.5 pounds now.I want to get it to 24 pounds and it will be perfect. I don't have a lot of cash to throw at it though. I am going to save up for the carbon link from specialized though as it is a 1/2 pound lighter. Excellent bike. If you are a hardtail holdout buy it. You will love it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alex
a Weekend Warrior
from Toronto,Ontario,Canada
Date Reviewed: January 6, 2004 | | Favorite Trail: | any singletrack | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | D'Ornella's BIKE SHOP | | Strengths: | The 2004 Epic comp is light, fast and ...did I mentione fast?....very fast! | | Weaknesses: | As a personal taste,...I wish it would have a different color. I dont think this plain white, does justice for this bike | | Similar Products Used: | Tested many, many bikes to come back all the time to this model | | Bike Setup: | Standard OEM. Check their website(XTR rear, LX front, Hydraulic disk brakes,etc) | | Bottom Line: | I just purchased my new 2004 Epic comp and I had the chanse to go out few times on some trails. I am VERY pleased with this bike, and I have no seccond thoughts now, that this is the perfect hardtail/full suspension bike! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David Bonk
a Weekend Warrior
from Oakville, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: December 17, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Hilton Falls | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1900.00 | | Purchased At: | Gears, Mississauga Ontario | | Strengths: | You get both a hard tail and full suspension in one bike. The 'brain' has worked well and kicks in only when needed. The bike has improved my riding dramatically. | | Weaknesses: | Wish that I went with disk breaks. The rims are freezing up in the winter which leaves me with no breaks.
The bike is on the expensive side but I think that is worth the extra as I will be riding it for a lot longer.
Other than that the bike has been great. | | Bike Setup: | Leave that up to the bike shop. | | Bottom Line: | Well worth a look and a test ride. I think that the brain technology will solve the old debate of hard vs. full suspension.
I am very happy that I went this route. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jays55
a Cross Country Rider
from Granada Hills, Ca. USA
Date Reviewed: December 14, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | single track to 3 trees | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$1850.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Quality construction, weight, dealer support, Fox and XTR components | | Weaknesses: | Haven't found any, yet | | Bike Setup: | Medium frame for 5'8", 170lb rider. Set suspension and dampening soft (air 75lb ft, 85lb rr, dampening +3 ft, +7 rr. Tire pressure 50lb ft and rr | | Bottom Line: | Anyone who, like me, was riding a hardtail, will love this bike! I stepped up to the comp model to get the Fox Fork and XTR rear derailler, both worth the extra $$. It took forever to get the suspension dialed, because I refused to accept that the settings should be so soft. But, because of the brain, this is the only way to get full use of the wonderful suspension. However, if the tires are not pumped to at least 48lbs, the front end will wash out in corners (a complaint I have heard about the Roll X tires). The above combination has worked great for me and the bike tracks like on rails!
When I first read about this bike and purchased one in June, there was not a bad piece of press to be found concerning it. Lately, the press has turned a bit negative (not enough suspension, racer only, etc), but my love of the platform has not diminished. I am an intermediate trail rider and couldn't be happier! I think this is the best stable platform simply for the fact that it gives away nothing to pedaling input of any level.
I got a great price from my LBS, which made the deal even sweeter. If you are a trail rider (expecially on a hardtail), do yourself a favor and look at this platform. Probably some good deals out there on 2003's for the smart shopper. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Todd Madson
a Cross Country Rider
from Bloomington, MN
Date Reviewed: October 2, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Bloomington River Bottoms | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1800.00 | | Purchased At: | Erik's Richfield MN | | Strengths: | Fast. Maneuverable. Brain gives you suspension when you
need it. Climbs and descends great, also nice on technical
terrain. Did I say fast? The cush is compliant without
being overly boingy. | | Weaknesses: | Too many LX or lower parts. Some say rear suspension is harsh, I'd say it's "firm but compliant". Tires take a
bit of getting used to, lateral descents at lower tire
pressures can be a bit confusing. | | Similar Products Used: | Santa Cruz Blur, Santa Cruz Superlight, Specialized Stumpjumper and FSRxc, Cannondale dual boinger, Trek Fuel,
Fisher Sugar, etc. | | Bike Setup: | Machine is actually a base Epic but with Fox float FL80 as
front shock and 2003 Shimano XTR rear derailleur. | | Bottom Line: | This bike was just what I was looking for. I'd ridden a
hardtail with ZERO suspension for four years and needed
something that wouldn't beat me up constantly on the trail.
I'd take a day or two just to recover sometimes so I knew
I needed something with at least front suspension. After
trying nearly every bike that I could think of (Giant NRS,
Santa Cruz Blur, Specialized FSRxc & Stumpjumper, etc. etc.
etc. I could go on...) I had the opportunity to try this
one as the Specialized rep had dropped one of the prototypes
off at the local shop (Erik's Richfield location) and one
of the guys behind the counter (Ed as I recall) was like
"you've got to try this".
After riding for a few minutes and laughing out loud at
what was happening I knew I needed to get one. Being
that I'd just gotten a new road bike it was at least a
year away and this was well before the ad hype began
as I'd not even heard of it before the day I tried it.
Fast forward a year to July 2003 and I try it again. The
store actually took the time to set the rear shock air
pressure to my weight range which is critical for this
thing to work at all. I see a lot of reviews where the
people were not liking the way it was working out of the
box but setting it up for your weight is critical. I'm
sure some of the naysayers who didn't like the original
Epic will probably like the ones with the new IQ settings
more since it has more adjustability.
Back to the Epic - at the time Specialized had Epic Bucks
on their website which would reduce the price by $100 and
my local dealer was blowing out the Epic base model for
$365 under their regular price and they were adding the
Fox FL80 fork on the front end which contributed hugely
to giving the bike a more plush ride over the Manitou
Skareb on the original base model. I filed this under
the Comp area because the base model with the Fox front
fork and the XTR rear derailleur IS a comp model.
Okay, so what about the ride you ask? I really like this
bike a lot. I feel as if I can go over more difficult
lines as well as bigger obstacles. The bikes suspension
feel is probably enhanced by having the Fox front fork
but I know know that descents or hitting obstacles is
much more pleasant since the rear shock is definetely
giving me compliance and suspension feel - it's not the
bone shattering feel of an unsuspended hardtail. I still
maintain that setting the shock up is the key to getting
good performance. With the Fox fork on the front and the
rear I can ride for hours without suffering for it later.
The bike seems to excel at being ridden fast. I'm not a
racer but I do ride with some friends who tend to get into
race mode when we ride (too much testosterone) and I need
every advantage I can get. The Epic definetely helps.
There is a down side - the quality control over the parts
spec could have been higher. A month and 13 days after I
got the bike at 137 bikes I broke a chain. I've NEVER
broke a chain in my life before. The shop replaced the
chain with no questions asked. Then, 28 days later at
197 miles the cassette body and freehub bearing failed
after a long climb. I know I'm probably a clydesdale
(5'7" 211 lbs) but that's ridiculous. I also note that
the seat while uncomfortable for some comes across as a
"replace it with one you really like" type of seat - it
is similar in feel to the Selle Italia prolink so if you
like that seat it may work for you.
But these are gripes because chains and hubs are common
OEM parts and can go bad. I was probably due since I've
got over 4150 miles in on my other bikes. And seats are
a personal preference for any rider.
Another unexpected bonus of having the Epic is there
aren't a lot of them on the trails so you'll get some
attention. Try it, you might like it. Bottom line:
this bike works for me, it may or may not work for you.
Try it! And make sure they set up the shock for your
weight for best performance. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Hans
a Cross Country Rider
from Emmen, Netherlands
Date Reviewed: September 10, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Teutoburger wald(germany) | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Strengths: | New 2004 model. I like the suspension. Fos float 100 RL is very stiff and plush. The "brain"rear suspension is just SUPER. It has been readjusted for the 2004 model and a bit more sensitive. It gives very good control. A rear suspension that's there ehwn you need it but never hets in the way. Its now equiped with deore 555 discs. A good choice. Weight has improved in the 2004 model. Good value for money. | | Weaknesses: | The bike makes some sounds, front derailleur LX. | | Similar Products Used: | Hardrock comp 2001. | | Bike Setup: | Fox float 100 RL, fox brain, shimano 555 disc, rear XTR, front LX, shifters LX, mavis 223 rim | | Bottom Line: | I have only driven it for four times but want to give a first impression on this 2004 model.
I am so far very pleased, light, stiff, superb suspension.
This is a bike for cross country and long/marathon rides | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark A
a Cross Country Rider
from Tallahassee,FL USA
Date Reviewed: September 2, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Red Bug | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | Higher Ground | | Strengths: | Beautiful bike, very tight and easy to handle | | Weaknesses: | Strongarm cranks, stem | | Bike Setup: | Mostly stock with Thomson stem and seatpost, and '03 XT crankset, WTB Power V saddle | | Bottom Line: | I am 6'1", 190. My Epic is a large. Fits good. My bike shop recommended a longer stem, and I think they were right on. The bike is very natural feeling to me. Comfortable. On the long XC rides I take, it doesn't interfere. The XTR rear derailleur shifts extremely smoothly, and that helps. I notice that, after I've been riding an hour, if I have the power left in me to pump the pedals, the bike will move as if I just got on it. With my old Enduro Pro, I'd typically start feeling very sluggish, as if the bike was pulling me down, so I couldn't get into the groove near the end of long hard rides. The Epic has changed that for me. I still get burned out, but even the smallest burst of power that I supply gets the bike moving.
I really like this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jack
a Cross Country Rider
from Carson City
Date Reviewed: July 22, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Many | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$3000.00 | | Purchased At: | Bike Source | | Strengths: | Name, components | | Weaknesses: | Many | | Similar Products Used: | Blur | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | Heres the deal. The "brain" works pretty well for the most part. I just should not have purchased this bike. Most of the people I now ride with have longer travel FS bikes. Why? They're more fun. The Epic is a good race bike. It definately opens doors to new and different technology in the mountain bike world however bikes like the Blur are literally burying this thing. I DONT like the fact that the "brain" works only for certain hits and not on others. Its tough to really bunny hop on this bike. After a while I just get sick of feeling like I am riding a hardtail. Hardtail, shmardtail, give me FS all the time and just go out and have fun. Feeling all of the bumps and bruises after a while just gets old. Its a good bike which needs some modifications and adjustments. TO be able to adjust the brain shock would be nice. I think in time. Longer travel suspension would be better. The Skareb just sucks. Put a FOX Float 100 RLC on it PLEASE! Why would they not!? The Fox Float's are the BEST shocks out there hands down, I dont even want to hear about it. TO be dealing with the mushy Skareb is just retarded. Had enough! Get me the Blur! Wheres that waiting list, put me on it. Thats it. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
b b
a Cross Country Rider
from mtl
Date Reviewed: July 22, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | bromont | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$3999.00 | | Purchased At: | mtl | | Strengths: | the braisn suspension ,, that works so well !! this bike really has the effiency of an hardtail ,, and the smoothnest of a full suspension ,, the balance is perfect,the bike turn and handle like a charm .. Its push you to go faster and faster ,, i have never been so fast .. the fox f80rlt works awsome | | Weaknesses: | the chain ,,
i have a medium size frame .. and i had to shorten the chain cause it was really too long ,, i had to take 2 links of it ,, it was chainsucking and grindind the frame all the time ,, the frame is a lot destroy cause of that ,, | | Similar Products Used: | specialized stumpjumper fsr ,cannondale jekyll , specialized stumpjumper | | Bike Setup: | lx disk brak ,, mavic 317 rims ,, xt hubs ,, | | Bottom Line: | this bike really rocks ,, its cant compare to nothing in xc .. ever made !! anyone who thinks the brains sucks ,,
huh mm come take me on a hill whit any other full ,, we'll see what suck .. doesn't have too changes rear settings once sets ( no need to block it ) always ready to rocks ,,
congradulations specialized for buying this concept and patented it ... maybe it's why it's so expensive
but it compares to no other bike so they can sell it the price they want .. if you want THE BIKE OF THE YEAR that's be ready to take out our loonies ;O( o | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Patrick
a Cross Country Rider
from Kansas City
Date Reviewed: July 2, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Gauntlet, near Roanoke, VA | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Bike Stop | | Strengths: | This bike ROCKS. It has that tight feeling when flying thru the flats, doesn't dance when yer standing up cranking uphills, and smooths out the love on the downhills. It took a day to get the front and rear shocks balanced and the brain dialed in, but oh man, when i did. **shudder** You should get this bike if yer upset with the weight of your FS and wish yer HT wouldn't clobber yer back on the downhills and the washboards. | | Weaknesses: | The chainsuck. I hear it'll keep happening until i upgrade some front rings, and the weight is a tad high for this level of bike (27 lbs stock), but these are things that can be fixed with money, and something is not REALLY a problem if it goes away when ya throw money at it. This bike (stock) is a starting point on some of its components. Wait for certain components to frustrate you and pick your own poison.. the BB/cranks, the seat, and the handlebars/stem are 'making a change' on mine soon. | | Similar Products Used: | Spec'd FSR comp, GT idrive, something with a funny name from Kona | | Bottom Line: | Wish i didn't have to take out a loan to get this bike, but i did, gladly. It soaks up the bumps and hits, and doesn't suck away any juju on the uphills. I would recommend giving this bike a chance, because it took a couple of trails to get tweaked just right, but now that it has.. i luvs it. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matthew
a Weekend Warrior
from Tucson, AZ USA
Date Reviewed: June 28, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Fantasy Islan | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Oro Valley Bikes | | Strengths: | The bike does a great job keeping the rear wheel on the ground where it is suppose to be. I love the balance the bike has and it just runs great. | | Weaknesses: | So far I haven't found any. | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale Super V, Gary Fisher Sugar 3+ | | Bike Setup: | Full '03 XTR expect for the V-brakes which are Avid 5R. CrossMax tubeless wheelset with Specialized Pro 2.1 tires. S-works carbon handlebars with a Thomson Elite stem. Easton carbon setpost and Egg Beater peddles. Upgraded the front shock to a Fox F100X. | | Bottom Line: | I sold my Fisher Sugar 3+ for this bike and it was the best move I have ever made. I have had the bike less then a month and have put almost a 100 trail miles on it already. I ride some very rocky and rough terrain and it holds up great. With the Fox Brain in the back the the F100x in the front I burn on the straight stuff and fly up the hills. I can honestly say that at the moment my bike is better then me. Couldn't ask for anything better. I will write more in once I get on a few more trails and different terrain. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Alan
a Weekend Warrior
from San Jose
Date Reviewed: June 12, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | still looking | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2050.00 | | Purchased At: | Off Ramp | | Strengths: | Brain technology, it really works like a hardtail until you hit the lumps, bumps, and dips. Components could be better, but the dream silver frame color I really like. If it wasn't this I would have gone with the gold Stumpjumper FSR Comp. | | Weaknesses: | Components, the front derailuer (msp be damned), sham 515 clips, stock riser bar and chain, and bloody seat. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Rockjumper and Stumpjumper, Cannondale, GT Ibex; fsr and hardtails all. | | Bike Setup: | Stock, except decked out for all out road commute. | | Bottom Line: | The bottom line is the Epic with brain technology is the best FSR out there when your not banging through the rediculous jumps, it is perfect for everyday riding and cross country exprense which is what the majority does. I bought this bike after trying almost everything that was on the market, GT, Cannondale, Klein, Litespeed, Trek, Gary Fisher, Kona, and even my friends Kestrel which was decked out as a psuedo mountain bike. And in the end I like the Brain technology and found a dealer with a awesome discount (its close to the end of the year where they need to sell off). So I bought the Epic. Bottom line is if you're a rider which tackles all the elements (in the whole amounting to what we call an average rider) the Epic kicks ass. It takes the jumps and bumps and maintains the efficiency of a hardtail (I can say this because I ride my bike to work, 30 miles round trip). So go buy it if you cant get it for 2 grand. Damn good bike. I just need to change the gearing so I can go faster on the road. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Abe
a Weekend Warrior
from Edgewater
Date Reviewed: June 4, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | Ridgewood Cycle | | Strengths: | Great Bike | | Weaknesses: | None | | Similar Products Used: | Trek, IronHorse, Tomac | | Bike Setup: | Came as-is - no changes made to it as of yet | | Bottom Line: | For the $2000 I bought this bike for I am pleased with it. The ride is fantastic - the shocks work great - and for what I use it for (riding around a trail painted onto a side of a cliff overlooking the hudson river) the bike is fanatastic. I know it will last me for years and all I have to do is upgrade the bike every so often.
Bottom Line: Just buy it - or get of the pot !! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
rich
a Racer
from denver co
Date Reviewed: May 29, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Treads in Englewood | | Strengths: | The Brain shock really works. Fox fork is very stable through baby heads and soaks up the bumps with ease. The lockout feature is nice to have on long climbs and riding in town. | | Weaknesses: | The bike is heavy feeling when picking up. Who puts a $6.00 B/B in a $2500.00 bike. Please spec a better seat. Chain suck issues. Riser bars make it feel like I was driving the schoolbus. | | Similar Products Used: | Fisher Sugar, FSRxc, DB V-8, Yeti AS-R | | Bike Setup: | Changed most of the parts out for lighter spec. SRAM shifters, ft and rear der's, chain, cassette, brakes and levers. Sweet Wings cranks, RS Judy SL with Arlo cartridges, Mavic Crossmax wheels | | Bottom Line: | The Specailized Epic Comp is not a free ride bike. It is not a downhill bike. It is not an urban jump around the park bike. This is a true cross country-racing-going fast machine. Most of the reviews have said: "it doesn't work, you cant feel the suspension move, it does not react when going over things" People, did you ever read the owners manual?
The Good:
This bike is designed to go fast at all times. This bike does take some time to setup properly, though. It took about an hour of adding and removing air pressure to get the right feel. Once the pressure is correct, the bike climbs like my Yeti ARC. You dont feel the "bob" when climbing and it is very active coming back down rough trails. Raced it in Durango last week and what a joy to ride. Soaked up stuff the hardtails could not take at speed and did not have to reach down for the lockout when going by the FS guys trying to get more traction.
The Bad:
What company puts a $6.00 B/B in a 2500.00 bike? The weight of the bike is a up there for the price. The biggest part is where the shock placement is. Since the shock is located near the rear wheel it feels back heavy. With FSR's shock placement in the middle it is a bit decieving. By changing out the B/B, cassette and handlebar and stem, got the bike weight from 28lbs to 26.25lbs. The weight has since been lowered with a new parts package. The bike has a bad case of chain suck. Shifting from the big ring to the middle ring seems to produce it most. It might be the inferior chainrings speced on the stock crankset. Since the change, I have not had any more issues with it.
Bottom Line:
This bike is designed to climb like a hard tail, be fully active when descending and accelarate like it has been shot out of a cannon. It does all of the above.
Free riders need not apply.
| | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mark J
a Cross Country Rider
from North Texas, USA
Date Reviewed: May 23, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | tight, twisty, up & down | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Purchased At: | Wouldn't take if you paid me | | Strengths: | 2 wheels, pedals, occasional suspension. Less expensive than the other stuff we checked out...but still not worth it | | Weaknesses: | Ridiculous implementation, to maybe a rididulous concept. You never know whether it will be harsh or active. It's "pea brain" just isn't smart enough.
| | Similar Products Used: | Ventana Salty, Turner Burner, SC Blur, SC Superlight, Trek Fuel, Spec'd FSR, Titus, couple of Kona's (Dawg, and ???), Hammerhead, etc. | | Bike Setup: | Don't remember, don't care. Except, I worry that precious resources at Fox are being squandered on this BS. | | Bottom Line: | I may not know perfection, but I know what I like. And this aint't it.
I got to demo this on a real trail...one of my favorites. So this isn't a parking-lot demo review.
Too rough-feeling on "smooth" sections...like almost smooth. Felt very harsh. Worse yet on the 1st hit, which comes through loud and clear. Then things mellow out for a second or 2, then it starts to harden up again. Why are you trying to confuse the rider, Specialized? The shops are groaning over this bike. It will end up in the "bad bike ideas" scap pile along with biopace chainrings and the Trek Y.
Also, on tight and twisty, I think Spec'd has a very awkward riding position...felt like the handlebars were 40" wide, and I felt like I was on a Hybrid, a city bike, sitting very upright.
A buddy of mine bought a Blur. Much better bike. Of all the bikes above, listed this Epic was the stupidest. (Most Stupid, whatever).
Bottom line: If you like this feel, buy a rigid bike. If you don't, learn to pedal, and / or try the Blur or Spider, or almost any "normal" full suspension. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Greg Roland
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder
Date Reviewed: May 19, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | University Cycles | | Strengths: | Rear suspension/rear fork, front fork, rear derailer, no bob. | | Weaknesses: | Seat, LX stuff, rear cassette(junk). | | Similar Products Used: | Rentals and an old no-name hardtail. I've be riding road bikes but a trip to Moab was like trying a new and fascinating drug. | | Bike Setup: | Out-of-the-box. | | Bottom Line: | Paying so much and getting some average components(see above) seemed like a bit of a risk, however, riding this bike immediately removed all doubts. And if you must upgrade it probably won't cost too much since the most expensive componnets on the bike are also the most important. The seat may have to go, and soon.
Personally, I have never gone over so much wicked terrain so fast, whether that be down or up hill. The Brain works as promised and goes a long way in making you're day as sweet as can be. The front Fox shocks are also a major plus and really work when it comes to adding stability when speed picks up. From someone who's never really ridden a FS before it's quite a difference.
The rear derailer works well but it sounds like I'm crunching tin cans back there - somewhat disturbing. I'm used to my Lightspeed road bike which fails to remind me that I should recycle more often.
I can't say these bikes are a great value considering how grossly overpriced they are. If however you've got the cash and want a great XC bike, this is bound to please. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Los Angeles
Date Reviewed: May 18, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Great price so can't complain and unfortunately can't tell, sorry. | | Strengths: | Full suspension with the Brain rear shock. The brain makes a smooth transition from hardtail to plush full suspension without you knowing it. It is the way I have always dreamed a rear suspension could be, yet was not smart enough to invent it myself. | | Weaknesses: | So much fun to ride that you will quit you job and ride every day, all day. The seat is pretty hard and gets uncomfortable on long rides. | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fisher Joshua X ... got stolen at Christmas ... people can be so rotten. Trek Fuel (Epic is better). | | Bike Setup: | Stock. I actually like the tires, but will probably switch to velocoraptors when these wear out. | | Bottom Line: | This bike dominates. When I test rode the Epic Comp at the bike shop I took it in the dirt for about 50 feet and could feel how nice the suspension and handling were but riding on a trail really shows you of what it is capable.
All the other full suspension bikes I have ridden felt springy like a pogo stick over bumps (sorry Trek and Gary). This bike is plush and makes you feel like you could ride over anything and never stop peddling. Allows you to climb like a mountain goat (If you have the conditioning, so don't expect a miracle). It is just totally and completely awe inspiring how well the bike handles and how much it just wants to go, go, go (a perfect cross country bike). I think they keep these bikes in a locked closet like veal until you buy one and then the bike is so happy to be free that it just can't stop moving. We will see how I feel about it after a few months (summer is coming and a lot of riding is waiting to get done), but I don't think that I will change my mind that much. In time I might get over the initial euphoria, but the Epic really is an awesome bike to ride. I could not be happier with this bike and highly recommend it to those who really love to ride XC. Thank you Specialized for the Epic. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Josh
a Cross Country Rider
from Mill Valley, CA
Date Reviewed: May 12, 2003 | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2600.00 | | Purchased At: | Mill Valley Cyclery | | Strengths: | Great climber, you can stand up and crank the thing with no power loss to suspension. Nice active suspension when activated. Great fork. Nice low standover height. Great looking bike in silver with silver Fox fork. | | Weaknesses: | Lousy seat, tires. | | Similar Products Used: | Brodie hardtail? Not too similar. | | Bike Setup: | 180mm XT cranks. WTB Rocket V saddle, WTB tires. | | Bottom Line: | I have really enjoyed the last few months on this bike. A previous experience with a full-suspension bike left me irritated with suspension induced loss of power on long, relatively smooth climbs. So, I went back to the hardtail. This time around, I almost bought another hardtail, but took a look at the most recent crop of "no bob" full suspension designs. I'm glad I did! This bike is great on all kinds of XC terrain, seamlessly choosing the fastest configuration. I have not noticed any jerky transition with the activation/deactivation of the rear shock. My technical riding ability has increased greatly with this new bike. My whole riding style has changed into a more fun-loving meandering "pick the most fun line" style. Plus, I’m able to ride technical sections that I wasn’t able to before. While having this much fun trailriding, sometimes I think maybe I should have taken a look at longer travel bikes, but I wouldn't want to lose the overall efficiency of the Epic. I’m not even sure what kind of rider I am anymore, having gone from hardtail "speed and efficiency" to "Big Fun XC"! A couple of minor gripes are the seat, which should just be replaced immediately. Also, the soft rubber compound of the Specialized tires wore down in just a few weeks of riding. So, only four Chilis for value. The XL size fits a tall rider well (I’m 6’4"), which is appreciated. From my point of view, this bike delivers on the promise of full suspension fun with hardtail efficiency – no compromises. I’m loving it! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Joey Knows
a
from Ft Lauderdale FL USA
Date Reviewed: May 9, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Pisgah | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2000.00 | | Purchased At: | mega cycle | | Strengths: | front shock, rims, brain technology, paint and decals | | Weaknesses: | Brakes and LX crap | | Similar Products Used: | occasional inferior full suspension bikes and then a trail demo on the epic disc | | Bike Setup: | stock except the egg beater pedals They are the best | | Bottom Line: | this bike was bought after riding a klein with Front Suspension for many years. I was watching bikes go in and out of style since 94' and tried alot of them out. This one finaly felt the way I thought full Suspension should WORK. That is the key word here. It Climbs like a hardtail. So what if it is not as light as one, it's not gonna rob you of your energy and bounce your brain around for hours on an epic ride or tough race. That is the bottom line. At the shop there was a S-works Brain bike full xtr everything it was definately as light as a hardtail, For $3,300.00. Go get it weight watchers!!! This bikes technology is what your paying for and the fact that it is the latest and the greatest is why they can cheapen it up with some components. Epic may be another flash in the pan bike but its the one that caught my eye. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill
a Weekend Warrior
from Downingtown, PA USA
Date Reviewed: April 28, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | the old Fisher - Williams | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Bike Line of Wayne, PA | | Strengths: | Believe the hype, the Brain performs flawlessly and will have you grinning like a fool with no brain of your own as the bike's intuitive feel has you leaping and diving over stuff that would otherwise be a hardtail horror. Really, my biggest problem on the first rides was trying to determine whether or not the Brain was functioning as I road the solid stuff to get to the fun stuff. Forget about it, this bike responds like no other I have ridden and the Brain is a huge part of that success.
I ride a fair amout of road to get to my trails and so this was an excellent choice. With the Fox Fork locked out it has a great road ease. | | Weaknesses: | The pedals are rather low end, but that is easily solved. I hear the weight comments on this bike but in my experience the weight is no limitation due to solid geometry and engineering. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek Fuel, Santa Cruz Blur R (all great rides!) | | Bike Setup: | Stock for the moment. | | Bottom Line: | Back to the weight... this Epic Comp is a well-balanced, well-engineered package that performs without causing the rider to compensate for any flaws, in my opinion. I'm not light at 190 lbs. and this thing is as stiff as I want both vertically and laterally. When things get wild I feel more 'together' with this bike than any other I have ridden. Specialized has delivered a great value here, as far as I am concerned.
For a weekend wanderer like myself, I would highly reccommend this to those (like me) that stood by the full suspension sidelines for so long. This bike gives me freedom to turn the wheel down any trail and not be intimidated by what I might find. I found both joy and freedom in this bike. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Mike Healy
a Cross Country Rider
from Logan, Utah
Date Reviewed: April 27, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Vermont Singletrack | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Purchased At: | Al's Cyclery | | Strengths: | What can I say? The epic is a little bit heavier than a lot of x-c rides out there, but the ride quality is very much worth it. Climbs like a frickin champ! | | Weaknesses: | Weight and price....look for a reduction in both next season. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek Fuel 98, Trek 9.8, Specialized stumpjumper, Cannondale Jekyll, etc. | | Bike Setup: | stock | | Bottom Line: | I work at Al's Cyclery here in Logan, and to be honset, a lot of us were rather skeptical about the whole thing at first. Our rep brought one by last summer, and it was definitely cool, but we were not sure what would come of it. Needless to say, we demo-ed it out on the dirt a few times when our demo stock came in and now, 3/4 of the shop employees are on this bike. It is AMAZING! Specialized hit the nail right on the frickin head with this one. I imagine both weight and price will come down in the future...come demo one, you will be very impressed! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Andrew D
a Cross Country Rider
from Penticton
Date Reviewed: April 22, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Okanagan Mt. Park | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$4000.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Fairly light, nice frame, strong fork, good tires | | Weaknesses: | Some LX components, Avid "5" brakes >>>SUCK BIGTIME<<<
Price is a bit much for the overall component group, (LX / XTR & Specialized "house brand" mix) "Brain" is not as smooth os standard 4-Bar Link suspension system, (appears to take a split-second to initiate. | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Enduro, Specialized Stumpjumper | | Bike Setup: | Factory | | Bottom Line: | The entire 'Epic' line of bikes are > quite < over-priced. This bike goes out the door at $4000.00 with tax here in Canada. For a bike with no disc brakes, quite a number of house-brand components and some LX in the mix, that is really pushing it. Considering that the "brain" technology will quite likely be revamped next year... "Version 2.0" in PC lingo.
We are, without a doubt, simply paying for the “newest / coolest” as well as the 2003 Specialized "Brain Technology" advertising campaigns. If a fellow reads up on it and really looks into what the “Brain technology” is, the bloody thing is extremely basic and utterly simple. Where the heck is the real cost here? | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ryan
a
from Pocatello, ID
Date Reviewed: April 1, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Pocatello Pedalfest | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Strengths: | The Brain Shock works better than expected. It is so easy to set up and ride. The learning curve for how to ride this bike is short.
The Fox Forx F80RLT is a great, smooth fork. The machined knobs on top are very easy to adjust on the fly. The blowout valve on the lockout is easy to set.
The wheels are lighter (Mavic 221) than I had thought they were going to be. The tires (Specialied Roll X) give the bike control and climbing power. The bike works very well as a unit; it is a stable ride. Specialized knows rear suspension. The paint job is sexy. | | Weaknesses: | Could use some better mud shedding pedals and the bars are a little wide (I have since cut them down) Wish it came with disk ready hubs. | | Similar Products Used: | Gary Fisher Sugar 2+, 3+, 293 | | Bike Setup: | Stock for the most part. | | Bottom Line: | This is one fast bike. Everything on the frame works well together. This bike is perfect for agressive XC riding and racing. The Brain Shock has made me a believer. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Rick Dukes
a Cross Country Rider
from Colorado Springs
Date Reviewed: March 10, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Palmer Park | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Team TeleCycle, Woodland Park, Colorado | | Strengths: | Great technical bike! I wanted to improve my percentage in climbing several stone "stairways" that used to make my hardtail hysterical. My percentage on these obstacles has more than doubled. The rear wheel stays hooked-up where the hardtail would bounce and send the bike off course. On clumbs and sprints, I stand up even more than on the hardtail. This may be to compensate for the additional weight of the rear suspension. Of course, the rear remains rigid. I just "hammer away" like before. I have been a deliberate descender--partially due to lack of control. Now I am faster. The Fox RLT fork was an unexpected and wonderful surprise. It allows me to put the front wheel into some tough places out of which weaker forks could not roll easily. Roll-X tires are nice and sticky. The bike steers switchbacks very well. The day after my extended demo of the Epic, I fell on my hardtail in a switchback that I had made easily on the Epic the day before. Finally, I like the fact that I am "in" the bike and not "on top of" it. | | Weaknesses: | Heavy cassette--almost twice the weight of 11-32 XT. Easily changed. Post and seat are moderately heavy. Stem and BB are surprisingly light. | | Similar Products Used: | Blur, Palomino, Truth, Id, Liquid, Fuel 100. Great bikes, but Epic meets my needs better. | | Bike Setup: | XTR/517 wheelset, XT cassette, Attac, WCS stem, SLR saddle. I swapped this stuff from my 22 pound hardtail. When I am finished, the bike will be in the 24 pound range. | | Bottom Line: | I really love this bike! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sean Progar
a Cross Country Rider
from Willow Springs, Il
Date Reviewed: March 2, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Palos | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: | Not many | | Weaknesses: | For a XC bike the weight was a little to much, the rear shock linkage swayed on turns and the rear shock itself did not open up in time and closed out way to early. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant NRS 1 and Jamis XLT 1.0 | | Bottom Line: | Pass on the epic, to overpriced and quality is not what the manufacturer describes it to be. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris Bare
a Cross Country Rider
from Deming New Mexico USA
Date Reviewed: February 15, 2003 | | Favorite Trail: | Bucking Mule Falls | | Duration Product Used: | Tested or demo'ed only | | Strengths: | Solid frame, Brain shock performes as advertised, snappy flex free ride, fox fork is a solid performer. | | Weaknesses: | No disc brades on a $2000+ bike, especially with new light weight technology, hard to set up the brain. | | Similar Products Used: | Giant NRS, Specialized Enduro | | Bike Setup: | Stock | | Bottom Line: | The bike is a solid performer and the brain technology works as advertised. I've read many negative reviews about this bike and I believe that many people have a misconseption about the brain technology. It was degined to be super efficient and prevent pedal bob, unfortunatly many people believe this should feel like fully active conventional FSR suspension. If this were the case you would loose the performance and power advantage. This bike performes much like the Giant NRS, except the brain is more responsive and remains free to act under hard braking. I like the epic, however I enjoy a more active ride and prefer the enduro series. A few years ago when I was serious about speed and racing, thi bike would have been my choice. I would recommend this to anyone who wants a fast racy bike that will still respond to the terrain. My only gripe is that specialized hyped up the brain so much that they kind of under specked the bike. For $2000+ you should get disc brakes and better components. However, the price will come down over time. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Vahe Shah
a Racer
from Glendale, CA, USA
Date Reviewed: December 16, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | TOO MANY | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2300.00 | | Purchased At: | Montrose Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Smooth- Fast - Handles Well- Extremely well balanced - Very Light- Automatic Rear Shock works really well- | | Weaknesses: | None so far- | | Bike Setup: | Stock except for tires. | | Bottom Line: | Light, well balanced, fast- looks good and feels good.
Great for uphills- great for downhills- great for jumping- overall a thumbs up at this point.
Total trail miles about 20 so far, had the bike only 3 days and cant wait to ride early AM tomorrow. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Chris McQuillan
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego, CA. USA
Date Reviewed: December 3, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Most in Santa Cruz | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1799.00 | | Purchased At: | Supergo | | Strengths: | Decent price, nice looking, works! | | Weaknesses: | Had to replace the rear shock after first ride on the dirt. Otherwise, none so far | | Similar Products Used: | First full suspension bike. | | Bike Setup: | Stock except I replaced the riser bars with flat. Will also replace stem for slightly longer. | | Bottom Line: | I had a problem with the rear shock right away. I guess I got a bad one. The shop had it looked at by the Specialized rep. and they replace it. Unfortunately, it took a couple of days, but there were no problems.
I have ridden the bike here in San Diego a couple of times with great success and just came back from Santa Cruz for some real riding and loved it! It climbs great and oh those descents! I agree with most, it could use some upgrades but it works with the setup it comes with just fine. I am adjusting my setup for more of a cross country bike, that's most of my changes for now. I have yet to run across anybody who works in a shop who doesn't swear by this bike. I guess we will see as time progresses. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
raghead
a Cross Country Rider
from Greenville, SC
Date Reviewed: November 27, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | I like'em all | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2850.00 | | Purchased At: | Great Escape(G'ville) | | Strengths: | Really fast bike. Fox Forx FLT. Really sexy dream silver. Great all around ride for us pedal mashers. Tires hook up great. | | Weaknesses: | Body Geometry saddle.(who's body) All the Specialized parts.
(Maybe I am a bike snob, but I like the good stuff) | | Similar Products Used: | Fuel, SC Superlight, steel hardtails | | Bike Setup: | RaceFace cranks, XT/517's, WTB saddle, Time ATAC pedals | | Bottom Line: | I was worried about the bike brothers and sisters. I asked my pal at the LBS to order this machine based solely on his and other bike shop buds recommendations. After reading the mixed reviews I wondered if I should have purchased another SC superlight(which also rocks). After riding at some of my local trails the only thing that I can find wrong with this bike is me. In a years time you forget how to spin and your strength is not what it once was. The bike moved faster than I could. It cornered like it was on rails. With some parts upgrades this can be the baddest machine out there.
At least until the next baddest machine comes along.
I would recommend this bike to all those who love to pedal as fast as they can for as long as they can up or down hill and can afford to drop some coin on some upgrades. Maybe some King hubs, Thomson laid back post and some Yeti Hard Core grips in the future. Peace, love and MTB. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Neil
a Cross Country Rider
from Moore, Oklahoma
Date Reviewed: November 13, 2002 | | Favorite Trail: | Anything the OEF Builds | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | Local Bike Shop | | Strengths: | Almost everything so far | | Weaknesses: | Typical Body Geometry saddle. Hard as a friggin rock. | | Similar Products Used: | 2002 Stumpjumper Pro and GT Hardtail
| | Bike Setup: | Factory setup with the exception of tires. I changed the factory tires out for Specialized Extreme Control and Extreme Masters both 1.70s. | | Bottom Line: | So far, I love it. It feels light on the trail and handles like a charm. It feels more like a hardtail than I originally thougt it would. It seems to be rigid a lot of the time but it is still smooth. Sitting through rough terrain while peddling is no problem. Climbs great too. I may post after I have more time on the bike. So far everything gets 5 Flamin' Chilis. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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