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Submitted by
Scott
a Cross Country Rider
from hendersonville, nc
Date Reviewed: January 22, 2007 | | Favoriate Trail: | greenslick at bent creek | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$3000.00 | | Purchased At: | EBAY | | Strengths: | this is the fastest bike i have ever rode. y0u become one with it. just enough suspension to go very very fast. climbing is incredible especially in rocks due to added traction. | | Weaknesses: | too many moving parts but this is my first fully. i havent had the first problem with this bike. there is no weakness to this machine | | Similar Products Used: | none | | Bike Setup: | all new xtr + disks, mavic crossmax, bontranger carbon bar and stem combo, thompson setback setpost, selle italia saddle, fast track 26x2.0 tubeless tires, rock shox sid world cup fork. believe it or not, 24lbs. | | Bottom Line: | this is the ultimate riding machine-- bar none. the brain works and you dont even realize it. you just go fast as you want. it climbs great and desends equally well. the bike feels like its on rails and tracks like nothing else. the carbon crown of the fork is a great addition since its stiffer than your average noodly sid fork. when i saw this bike i knew i had to have it no matter what the bidding went up to. you can even check it out at photo bucket dot com user bikingbachelor. you cant go wrong with this bike | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Yiannis Makris
a Cross Country Rider
from Athens, Attica, Greece
Date Reviewed: December 4, 2006 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$4500.00 | | Purchased At: | Athens | | Strengths: | Amazing dowhill handling, rides like a good Full Suspension, forgives mistakes to begginers. Great in uphill with perfect raction like Hard Tail. The brain back sock works AMAZINGLY good and after you experiment with the setting of both suspensions there is no way not to adjust it exaclty as you like it or you like to ride !!! | | Weaknesses: | a little more heavy than a hardtail but it is more than that it also a Full Suspension | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized Sworks FSR,
Klein Mantra Comp | | Bike Setup: | XT derauilers, Rockshox Reba, DT wheels, Onyx hubs, XT hydralic brakes, carbon steating, carbon crankset | | Bottom Line: | This bike is a perfect all around bike (also for serious XC riders. I enjoy it also in trails since the handling is great. If you can allocate the money is a must buy ! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
greg
a Racer
from Sarasota, Fl
Date Reviewed: April 27, 2006 | | Favoriate Trail: | Tsali,NC | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$4000.00 | | Purchased At: | Higher Ground Tallahassee | | Strengths: | Excellent race bike. Very fast. | | Weaknesses: | Chain suck | | Similar Products Used: | fsr xc pro | | Bike Setup: | xt and x.o components. crossmax ust. | | Bottom Line: | I have been racing for three years. At the begining of the last race season I purchased the S-Works at Higher Ground on Saturday, the day before my race. Had maybe a half hour on the bike before my race. Then placed third in my class where last year I placed eighth. The only thing I changed was the bike and my training remained the same. Excellent race bike. | Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
MOPETIN
a
from Cibao Valley, DOMINCAN REP
Date Reviewed: August 16, 2005 | | Favoriate Trail: | La Baja De La Hora | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$4300.00 | | Purchased At: | KALALA IMPORTS | | Strengths: | It is everything they say it is in the magazines... Nothing like, at least what I have ridden.... | | Weaknesses: | None... Still looking,... | | Similar Products Used: | Stunt Jumper, Giants F/S... GT XCR100, and few others F/S from the LBS | | Bike Setup: | FULL XTR, 2005 SID, Michelin XCR AT's CROSSMAXX XL NO COMPUTER, FOR GET THE PC and just RIDE... | | Bottom Line: | The the ride is insane... the more you push the dam thing, the it wants... It keeps going... Not beat up after rides, as when I used my trusty ZASKAR. Its bomb proof, and love it... worth EVERY PENNY... When properly set.. it is just simply put... a great ride... My friends in town all agree, it was the best disicion we made to get one. The 2006 are coming, more expensive with more carbon. My is 25.57... Wieght is good... Tires, tubeless that is are heavy... mine a 750 gmrs, plus another 100 something for tire sealeant... I plan to find a way to drop at leat half a pount to get a flat 25, that is my goal. But that half a pound it going to be VERY EXPENSIVE, so it has to be thought out carefully... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gregorio Antonio Ramirez Alvarado
a Racer
from Santo Domingo, Republica Dominicana
Date Reviewed: July 1, 2005 | | Favoriate Trail: | Resoli | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$680.00 | | Purchased At: | Ebay | | Strengths: | -Excelente en las subidas.
-Lock-Out funciona debidamente. | | Weaknesses: | -Muy pesada.
-Hay que cambiar mucho los cables.
-Deberia tener algo de Carbon | | Similar Products Used: | Trek 8000 | | Bike Setup: | SPECIALIZED S-Works Epic
Marzocchi Marathon Sl 1743 grams
Thompson 130mm 25.4 211 grams
Chris King 1 1/8 Threadless 125 grams
Carbon Spacers 40 grams
Easton Ec70 Aluminum Handlebar 146 grams
Odi Rogue Lock On Grip 132 grams
Thompson Setback 30.9x367 Seatpost 248 grams
Selle Italia Flite 289 grams
Seatpost Clamp Salsa Flip Lock 31.8 42 grams
Avid Juicy 7 869 grams
Sram XO Shifters 198 grams
XTR Front Derraileur Bottom Pull 34.9 130 grams
Sram XO Front Derrailleur 211 grams
Crank Brothers Egg Beaters Ti 240 grams
Sram PC-99 Hollowpin Chain 285 grams
Sram 11-34 9 Speed Cassette 295 grams
Salsa Quick Release Squewers Steel 104 grams
Chris King Disc/Mavic717/Dt Spokes/Alu 1680 grams
Kenda Kharisma Tubeless 1422 grams
Stans No Tubes+Strip 200 grams
Grease 40 grams
Shimano XTR Hollowteck II M960 796 grams
TOTAL 26.711 LIBRAS | | Bottom Line: | Si quieren subir bien Rapido Comprenla.
Tengo mas control y escalo y desciendo mucho mas rapido.. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
David Bearden
a Cross Country Rider
from Menlo Park, CA
Date Reviewed: May 16, 2005 | | Favoriate Trail: | Saratoga Gap | | Duration Product Used: | 6 months | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Light Weight -- mine was 24.5 lbs. (Medium) off the showroom floor -- I don't know why the reviewer below is quoting 26+. Ride quality and feel. This is very subjective, I know. The Brain works! | | Weaknesses: | XTR V-Brakes Suck!!! A little sketchy due to steep head angle. | | Similar Products Used: | Canondale Prophet, Specialized FSR, Rocky Mtn (didn't like Active Suspension feel) | | Bike Setup: | Stock with bar ends. First time I haven't spent hundreds of $$ on upgrades. Maybe lighter wheels and disk brakes for next season. | | Bottom Line: | I just finished my second Xterra with this bike and I love it. Yes, this bike rides like a hardtail and is NOT as plush as other full suspension bikes, but that's EXACTLY why I like it. I feel more connected to the bike and the trail with my Epic and this increases my confidence and enjoyment. It climbs better then any other bike I've ridden. Pick a line and it hammers the down hills too. Whether it's a 5 miler or a 25 miler, I don't feel beat up on the trail or at the end of the ride like I did on a hard tail.
I haven't had any mechanicals (knock on wood), so I can't comment on the Brain, shock, etc.
It you're more than just the casual weekend rider, I think you should buy this bike and leave the 5" travel bikes to freeriders and downhillers. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
chucky gross
a Cross Country Rider
from solana beach
Date Reviewed: May 11, 2005 | | Favoriate Trail: | noble | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$1200.00 | | Purchased At: | mtbr, frame & fork purchase | | Strengths: | works as advertised. stable, smooth and fun to ride. | | Weaknesses: | not sure yet | | Similar Products Used: | none, this is my first full suspension | | Bike Setup: | xtr, thompson sp/ fsa stem, mavic 717, manitor skareb super, monkey lite bars, flight saddle, wtb velociraptor tires | | Bottom Line: | Coming from over 20 years of hardtail riding(sworks HT, merlin, klein), i have to admit I was reluctant to give up bike response, weight and climbing. after a few rides on the epic, i am very stoked with the purchase. the bike, although a bit heavy is fun to ride. others on this site say that it does not compensate for little bumps. i say it DOES. coming off of a HT, this bike smooths everything out. Also, I am not sure if I am riding my normal route faster as I am losing some control on tighter single track turns. i attribute it to either, faster riding on this bike or, as the bike absorbs some energy with a plusher frnt shock (previously I had a sid) the response is slower and I am not used to it yet. I am stil not used to the feel and the control of the full suspension. the bike is indeed heavier. mine comes in around 26.5 lbs. i am not sure how to drop additional weight? any suggestions?
I figure if I keep riding the weight will not matter is it is easier for me to lose 5 lbs than 1 lb on the bike.
I would recommned this bike to any old-schooler coming from a HT. The entire ride is more quiet, not as much ratteling, jolting etc... therefore I think the result is increased speed. the climbing? well I have never been a fast hill climber, unless the climb is very technical. So, the jury is sill out on the long fire-road climbs? | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Shaun Hamilton
a Cross Country Rider
from Milford PA, USA
Date Reviewed: May 7, 2005 | | Favoriate Trail: | Iris, Highpoint state Park NJ | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$4500.00 | | Purchased At: | Action Outfitters, The Best shop in the poconos | | Strengths: | The Brain Does Work! | | Weaknesses: | Not as Light as It should be | | Similar Products Used: | Cannondale Super-v 98-00, Cannondale Jekyll 00-02, Trek Fuel 02-04, Specialized FSR PRO 04-05. | | Bike Setup: | Sram XO Rear der & Shifters, Hays mag plus Hydro Discs, Chrisking Headset, Chrisking Hubs on mavic 717 disc rims, FOX Talas Fork 04, XT Crank,BB, & front der. Thompson Post, Atac carbon pedals, Hutchitson python lites & Stans Tubless kit, Thompson Stem, Easton Monkey lite bar. | | Bottom Line: | Good: Climbing & Fast Fire Roads.
Bad: Tight Single track, I seem to always be scetched out.
Good: Fits like a Glove.
Bad: The Paint is Chipping off.
Good: The Brain Locks out like it Should.
Bad: Not an Active feel at all. No Small Bumb performance.
I have about 10 hours of riding on this bike and I can say I miss my FSR. I miss the soft small bump performance.
I think I will Ride it for another month or so and buy something with 120mm of travel that I can Just lock out.
I may look into purchaing a new threshhold adjustable brain shock (500+ Bucks!!!!!!!!).
Don't purchase this bike if your a Full suspension Lover.
This is A HARDTAIL!!
| Value Rating: Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Dublin Ireland
a Cross Country Rider
from Wisconsin
Date Reviewed: April 22, 2005 | | Favoriate Trail: | Anything tight and rolling | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2999.00 | | Purchased At: | Eriks, Madison | | Strengths: | 2003 model year -- Lightweight, responsive, smooth shifting. Fits like a glove. | | Weaknesses: | Too early to tell, but the jury is still out on climbing. | | Similar Products Used: | Trek, trek, trek hardtails | | Bike Setup: | Stock black 2003 S-Works. Full XTR, Thomson, dual brake/shifters, SID World Cup front, Brain rear. Easton bar with ends rather than the Specialized bar (couldn't accept ends). | | Bottom Line: | I got a great deal and took the plunge -- it's comfortable, responsive and the Brain FSR works as touted so far. Never planned on this model, but so far I am very impressed. Now to test the reliability on race day and get my training back on track. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Wayne Groe
a Racer
from Mighty Marin
Date Reviewed: December 28, 2004 | | Favoriate Trail: | kiddy dips @ west view park & any dirt highway | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2010.00 | | Purchased At: | Mikes | | Strengths: | It can take down big scores. | | Weaknesses: | It'll flip ya, for real! | | Similar Products Used: | Nine one one slope | | Bike Setup: | XTR and a carbon fiber hanger for my colostomy bag. | | Bottom Line: | +My name is Wayne Groe and I am a cowboy. I take down scores. This b@#*h can take a beatin, like my old gash in Hernando County, without the bloody mouth, the cops and the restraining order. Like I said, I am a cowboy I take down scores and I'm lookin for action. Ride hard and beat your b*@#h, whatever form that takes. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jim coyne
a Cross Country Rider
from fairfax, ca, u.s.a.
Date Reviewed: December 7, 2004 | | Favoriate Trail: | pine mountain complex | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$2100.00 | | Purchased At: | mike's | | Strengths: | all xtr, very, very light, many other light or higher end components | | Weaknesses: | strange geometry not suited to all riding styles, brain shock isn't as bob-free as they say. | | Similar Products Used: | cannondale super-v | | Bike Setup: | all xtr, carbob bars, specialized saddle with ti bars, rock shox sid team fork, brain shock | | Bottom Line: | killer bike, actually lighter than my steel framed team marin. xtr shift/brake pods take some getting used to. xtr rim brakes are strong and firm, pro roll-x ruber grips well. flat carbon bars put you in a race position which can be uncomfortable on longer rides, bar ends not recommended. the riding geometry seems to place more emphasis on the quads and not on hip flexors, which can rob power. some bob in the shock but not nearly as much as most other shocks i've seen and friends have attested to. overall, a great full suspension! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bob
a Racer
from St.Louis
Date Reviewed: October 5, 2004 | | Favoriate Trail: | Chubb | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$40000.00 | | Purchased At: | Sunset | | Strengths: | Very Fast - Closest thing to a hard tail without actually riding one. Very fast on smooth trails | | Weaknesses: | That first bump you hit in a race kills this bike for me in races! The brain is still locked out and throws you out of groove. On a fast course you cannot beat this bike though! | | Similar Products Used: | 03 Stumpjumper S-Works, 04 Blur, and many many hard tail bikes | | Bike Setup: | full xtr- fx80 - crossmax xl (rim brakes). about it.
| | Bottom Line: | Great bike on fast, smooth rides, but a little too harsh for a rough course or an epic single track ride. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Ed
a Cross Country Rider
from MA
Date Reviewed: August 22, 2004 | | Favoriate Trail: | Kingdom Trails | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$2500.00 | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Durable, nice welds, really cool black paintjob, and of course the Brain | | Weaknesses: | Chainsuck, Brain is mounted in a vulnerable spot | | Similar Products Used: | Sugar, Enduro | | Bike Setup: | Fox F100X, XT/XTR drivetrain, Hayes hydros | | Bottom Line: | Terrible chainsuck in the little ring, until the dealer replaced the chainstay with a revised version that has a smallish dimple to allow more clearance. The Terralogic fork and Brain shock are an amazing combination. You can stand and hammer over any terrain without bob, brake dive, etc. Riding on fire road or smooth terrain is like being on a road bike, you can stand and hammer with no suspension feedback. The only dissapointing thing about this bike was the weight, mine came in around 28#, not sure how much of that was the frame though. This would be an incredible XC race platform if built up with lighter components. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Sam
a Racer
from Boulder, CO
Date Reviewed: July 14, 2004 | | Favoriate Trail: | Mary's to Lions to Troy Built | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | Wheatridge Cyclery | | Strengths: | Rides like my road bike up hills (fast)
Brain is sweet - no lock/unlock to mess with
Responsive Handling
Looks | | Weaknesses: | None noted yet | | Similar Products Used: | 02' SWorks FSR | | Bike Setup: | Sram, Marzocchi, etc | | Bottom Line: | I got this 04' bike as a warrantee after I cracked my 02' SWork FSR. The good folks at Wheatridge Cyclery and Specialized had my new frame to me less than a week after I broke it.
I will definitely continue to buy from Wheatridge and Specialized, I whole-heartedly reccomend others do the same. The shop and mechanics at Wheatridge are among the best I've experienced and they always have what I'm looking for -- its worth the 45 minute drive to get there.
Thanks Randy at Wheatridge -- your awesome!!
Overall, this a sweet bike and I couldn't be more happy with it -- I'll know the bike better after I've been able to ride it more. I'm still getting use to its handling characteristics, etc. I'll submit another review in a few months after I've broken her in.
Climbs like a hard tail then rockets the down-hills, super efficient brain design is awesome, I can't wait to race it!!!
ps If your going to buy this bike, please don't ride it slow, its meant to go fast..... | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Jason Daniels
a Cross Country Rider
from Phoenix, AZ
Date Reviewed: June 20, 2004 | | Favoriate Trail: | National at South Mountain | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Price Paid: |
$4600.00 | | Purchased At: | South Mountain Cycles | | Strengths: | Fast, Climbs Well, Descends Well
| | Weaknesses: | None So Far | | Similar Products Used: | Specialized FSR, Revolver Ti, Turner Burner | | Bike Setup: | Full XTR, hugi/517's; king head set, flight tt saddle in zebra print | | Bottom Line: | This is a great all mountain CC bike. Climbs stiff and light like a hard tail, descends like a soft tail(duh). The only problem I have encountered so far is I broke the free hub body in the middle of a long ride (had to walk miles back to the car!) All and all I am very pleased with the rig and plan only to change to the xtr hydraulic discs and cross max wheels | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Matthew Vangelisti
a Weekend Warrior
from Markham, Ontario, Canada
Date Reviewed: May 20, 2004 | | Favoriate Trail: | "The Drops" at Durham | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$4500.00 | | Purchased At: | Markham Cyclepath | | Strengths: | Really responsive, new Brian adjustment is a great change for '04. Geometry is super for fast XC rides as well a technical singletrack. No issues at all. First ride was last Sunday and it felt like I had been riding this bike for years. Credit proper setup at LBS. | | Weaknesses: | Had hoped it would be a little lighter. It is a small frame so with full XTR/paddle and crossmax rims with 1.75 Hutch USt tires I was a little bumbed at 23.8lbs. Had really hoped for 22 or so. Not a bid deal as the bike rides light. | | Similar Products Used: | Modified 1998 FSR-XC | | Bike Setup: | Full XTR, Mavic Crossmax UST, 959, Hutch Scorpion 1.75's, Easton EC70 bar, Ritchie Pro stem. Specialized BG Pro MTB saddle, Serfas bar-ends, Specialized BG grips. | | Bottom Line: | This is a mega dollar bike and if you have the cash I totally think it is worth the money. Wheel's are super ultra light and the tires roll fast. The bike is a little loud with the rear suspension but I might have the brian set a little too high. I'll have to see. As well this bike is good for some serious riding but remember it is not a Heckler. Don't think you can huck this off a drop. Also I do have a SID team, and yes the front brakes can rub a little on compression. I am a 137lb rider so keep this in mind if you are building one up. Go with a beefier fork if you are heavier.
I cannot say enough about the new XTR with paddle shift STI. It is just as good as my Durace road bike. Super smooth, especially shifting to an easier gear. No more big thumbshift effort as with existing rapidfire. Go XT if you don't want to break the bank. Lastly, I would highly advise anyone to get the bike you want the first time. Spent more than I wanted to as I knew I would add bits to any new bike to make it into this one. It will save you money in the long run. Lastly, if this rig is good enough for Phil, it is good enough for the Podium Guy!
Happy Trails, | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gregg Force
a Racer
from Baltimore
Date Reviewed: May 14, 2004 | | Favoriate Trail: | Loch Raven seminary | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$4000.00 | | Purchased At: | Princeton Sports | | Strengths: | This is a follow up review from a previous post. Great all around race bike. Does everything well.
When the rear supension is set to the race setting it performs closer to a hardtail and when it it set to it's soft setting it feels closer to a good full suspension bike. It's not a plush feel by any means though, this bike is meant for cross country racing period. | | Weaknesses: | Ok, here is a list of problems I have encountered training and racing the s-works epic over the last three months:
The placement of the rear derailleur cable is problematic in that it is prone to get very dirty and need frequent cleaning and lubrication of the housing to ensure accurate shifting. For some reason this is a bigger issue than on previous bikes I have raced. I am using SRAM XO shifters and rear derailleur.
2. The rear linkage system can and will develop some lateral play (1-3mm) as the bushings at the seat stay wear. They seem to wear rather quickly (8-10 good rides). Move the wheel from side to side to notice this.
3. Rock Shox Sids are noodle forks that without the remote lockout are not worth the trouble. There is a good bit of side to side movement when standing up and muscling the bike from side to side as the pads rub against the rim.
| | Similar Products Used: | Klein hardtail (attitude, pulse, adriot), Proflex, Dean, Cannondale. | | Bike Setup: | full xtr, king, sram xo, easton,etc. | | Bottom Line: | A great bike that must be properly maintained to enjoy. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Paul
a Cross Country Rider
from Indpls
Date Reviewed: May 2, 2004 | | Favoriate Trail: | Single Track Whereever | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Purchased At: | LBS | | Strengths: | Great feel, rear shock works very well with my Front Fox 100 RLC. Great handling and performance. Replaced S-Works FSR. Adjustable rear shock. | | Weaknesses: | None noted other than ones budget. | | Similar Products Used: | Various FSR's, GF Sugar, Giant NRS, | | Bike Setup: | Various XTR/XT components, Mavic UST. Fox 100 RLC. | | Bottom Line: | This is a great ride. I was not interested in the 03' models because 1. It was the first year release of a radical new design and 2. Did not like the response of the 03' rear shock when demo'd. Specialized has improved on the Epic rear shock mechanics. It felt too much like a hard tail as the 03' rear shock lagged. I have never felt such performance when riding my 02' S-Works FSR, the rear end compliments VERY WELL my Fox 100 RLC fork. Great on climbs. Better control, can pedal harder into turns w/o making contact with the trail. WOW! | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Steve Marshall
a Weekend Warrior
from Steamboat Springs, CO USA
Date Reviewed: April 30, 2004 | | Favoriate Trail: | All of them, cannot choose just one | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$4000.00 | | Purchased At: | Sore Saddle Cyclery | | Strengths: | Everything! | | Weaknesses: | Cannot find any. | | Similar Products Used: | '03 S-Works Epic | | Bike Setup: | '04 Epic S-Works silver anodized frame with Mavic CrossMax SL Disc wheelset, XTR gruppo/XT discs, Maxxim MX-6 bars, 959 pedals, Thompson Elite stem and post, Fox F100X fork, Conti UST tires, Fizik saddle. | | Bottom Line: | I had the '03 versions of both shocks/bike and these are a great improvement (over the '03) for both the Epic's adjustable Brain and the new F100X front shock; they actually work more usefully on the trail in real riding conditions. I actually ride both shocks at the lowest possible threshold for going active and it is just perfect at 195 lb. riding weight. As advertised, stiff, when I want it locked out and it is a great shock setup when I need it active.
Cannot say enough good things about this bike - it is not a plush ride, however; that's why I have the '04 S-Works Enduro, too.
For technical riding this is my bike of choice for rock picking and moving it around under me - weighs 25.5 lbs as set up above and it climbs great. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Scott Hosking
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder, Co
Date Reviewed: April 29, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Strengths: | Fast as all hell, so smooth, the adjustable brain allows the perfect tune in for the conditions and rider, climbs like a dream. | | Weaknesses: | have had one small crash and put a small dent in the top tube. | | Similar Products Used: | Epic disc, suger, tested a fuel | | Bike Setup: | built from frame,Manitou Skarab Platinum(also an awsome item with the SPV)XTR cranks and rear derailer XT sti shifters, XT/717 wheels, python air lite tires, EA 70 stem, Truvativ team bars, flite saddle | | Bottom Line: | This bike is perfect for anyone who wants to race or just ride at speed, it can be tuned to any person and is definitely lighter this year. Could also suit a trail rider, it feels like more than 90mm of suspension.I was surprised how fast it felt right of the bat, the frame and fork work perfectly together, both remain stiff until you run through some bumps then they go crazy, the bike never leaves the ground, the trail just gets smoother. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Gregg Force
a Racer
from Baltimore
Date Reviewed: March 24, 2004 | | Favoriate Trail: | Loch Raven Seminary | | Duration Product Used: | Less than 1 month | | Price Paid: |
$3800.00 | | Purchased At: | princeton sports/excel sports | | Strengths: | This bike is a rocket. I raced it at Greenbrier AMBC and had the ride of my life. This was only my fifth ride on the bike and my first race in 6 months. The course was very rocky and technical, which was perfect for this bike. It rides like a full suspension on the downhills and a hardtail on the climbs, except you still have plenty of travel when you need it for the rocks and roots. I can't say enough good things about the feel of this ride. For the last 7 years I have raced exclusively hardtails but I will never go back. I placed top 3 in a 30+ expert AMBC on this rig. My best result ever with only six weeks of training, was it the bike? | | Weaknesses: | For the price, an S-works frame should be made in the USA, not Taiwan.. I kicked out 1785.00 for the frame and I want it made in America, period. For the record, the welds were perfect but how can we be sure about the quality control issues? | | Similar Products Used: | I haven't been on a full suspension XC bike since 1996 (pro-flex, and yes it sucked). I have raced mostly klein hardtails. | | Bike Setup: | custom build from excelsports: king wheelset, ricthey wcs stem, full-xtr, sram xo shifter and rear derailler, easton xc riser, speedplay frog ti, etc...most of all...coninetial supersonic explorer tires (2.1)... They wieghed 460 grams on the digitial scale and do a great job. | | Bottom Line: | The bike is everything they say it is. I invest about 4k and custom speced every part. The bike came in around 23.7 Lbs. fully built and it is worth every penny. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
John
a Cross Country Rider
from Draper
Date Reviewed: February 1, 2004 | | Favoriate Trail: | Trail 157 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$1500.00 | | Purchased At: | Canyon Bicycles, Draper, UT | | Strengths: | Lightweight, greater functionality from Brain shock, anodized silver paint, ample room for water cages. | | Weaknesses: | Cost | | Similar Products Used: | 2003 Specialized S-Works Epic, Trek 9.9 hardtail. | | Bike Setup: | Rock Shox Sid SL, Shimano XTR, Easton EC-90 bars, Thompson stem and seatpost (stock), Mavic Crossmax SL wheelset. | | Bottom Line: | Weight: My 2003 Epic weighed 24.5 lbs., 2004 Epic is weighing in just under 24 lbs. My 2003 Epic was the painted silver frameset, which added more weight then the anodized black frame. This years bike is anodized silver and looks awesome.
Suspension: This is a massive improvement from last years Epic. My major complaint with last years bike was the dead thump, then give of the Brain shock. Or as stated below, the "spike" when you would first hit a bump.
This years suspension is night and day different. There is no more dead time on this shock. The other bonus is the Stable Platform technology continues to work even at the Brains lowest setting. This makes the bike very responsive on climbs with absolutely no bob, but a definite full suspension feel on descents.
Dependability: The Specialized rear suspension is quiet and requires little maintenance. I have friends who own other full suspension bikes and I have always hated the squeaks that they seem to develop over time. My 2003 bike never squeaked, even after muddy rides and multiple washes.
Bottom line: Great bike for the serious XC racer and the weekend warrior with some extra cash. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
L Steely
a Cross Country Rider
from Phoenix, AZ
Date Reviewed: January 31, 2004 | | Favoriate Trail: | Mcdowell Competitive track | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Price Paid: |
$3800.00 | | Purchased At: | South Mtn Cycles, DNA Cycles | | Strengths: | Precise handling, auto lockout on shock | | Weaknesses: | little heavy compared to a hardtail...tendancy for chain suck... | | Similar Products Used: | Epic Disc, Titus Racer-x, Stumpy FSR | | Bike Setup: | XL Silver Ano, CK/517 wheelset, Fox Float 100RLC, XTR 960 components, Sworks Enduro CF bar, Avid Ti rim brakes, CK headset, Salsa skewers, RollX Pro 2.0 | | Bottom Line: | I had been a hardtail snob for years--I tried a 2000 Stumpy FSR and found it to be too flexy and the Racer-x while quite nice just didn't do what I wanted which was be a 'hardtail' when I wanted and have some travel to take the edge off of the bumps. After a test ride on an Epic Disc I was sold. I waited a year for the 'bugs' to work themselves out since it was a new product and my wait was worth it. I ended up with a Silver anodized frame and an adjustable shock. I noticed immediately that the handling was greatly improved over my 98 Sworkx HT due to head tube angle and that the riding position was so much more comfortable. It took a while to get the shock dialed in for my taste and "learn" how to ride a full bounce machine,but now it climbs great, handles like a dream, and looks great. As built it comes in just under 25lbs which is not bad considering I built it up with a FOX 100mm fork -which is an amazing fork-and slime tubes. The only issue I have had, and I have noticed many other Epic riders seem to have as well is chain suck on the front even with a new XTR chain and yes, it has been adjusted many times and is properly lubed...the clearance between the big ring and the chain stay is tight and I ended up ruining one chain already because of this. If anyone has figured this out please let me know. Other than this the bike has been a blast and will be seeing many miles this year in the 24 hour races. Who should buy it? If you can afford to drop 4K plus on a bike, do it and enjoy. If not there are some awesome Epics that will do it all at a lower tag (I admit, I am an Sworks snob). If you are a XC rider that wants to take the edge off and want a 'light' bike that will also handle some good size bumps and drops (I mean stuff in the 18-24 inch range) this is the bike...and lstly if you just want just about everyone else to point and envy, this is definately your bike...I am starting to get tired of the compliments and questions they becoming so frequent. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
jim
a Racer
from Covington, Ga
Date Reviewed: January 31, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 1 Year | | Purchased At: | Oconee Outfitters | | Strengths: | Suspension is not affected by rider imput, active braking, laterally rigid, reliable, feels fast | | Weaknesses: | price, I wish it weighed 4 lbs.!, plain anodizing with outline lettering | | Similar Products Used: | GF Sugar, demo'd Fuels, Moots, old FSRs, DBR, Santa Cruz, etc | | Bike Setup: | '04 anodized large frame, 2x9 Gearing, Fox 80x, Am Classic wheels, Easton, Crank Bros pedals, avid cantilevers, sram | | Bottom Line: | This is the first time I've bought the same bike twice in row. I usually try to upgrade or buy something new. I had an'03 which proved to be a great bike. After a year of racing, I took apart the rear end, the sealed rollerbearings were dry, but I just greased them and they are fine. Absolutely no play, and still smooth.
This is by far the most reliable bike I've owned. I really didn't like the black though, so I sold the frame and got a '04 silver one. It is indeed 1/2 lb. lighter (5.6 lbs on the shop scale). I switched from a Sid World Cup to the Fox, so I gained back that 1/2 lb. The fork is a perfect complement.
I can't really tell a difference between the new and old shock, but I've been riding in cold weather and probably focused on the amazing fork's performance. I'm usually sensitve (anal) about such things, so I'm surprised I can't notice a difference yet.
Note, it would not be my first choice for a sit down trail/ play bike. The Enduro is better suited for that, I think. It is a great woods bike, though, it turns and climbs so well. But, it is not a plush easy chair. Think: taught sports car, not SUV. I can't imagine a better race bike unless they could build it even lighter and still keep the reliablity.
Bottom line,its a hardtail that absorbs bumps like a trail bike. Built, it is 23 lbs with no stupid light stuff. I don't understand all the controversy the Epic generated last year, it really performs as advertised. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
Submitted by
Bill
a Cross Country Rider
from Richmond, VA
Date Reviewed: January 27, 2004 | | Duration Product Used: | 3 months | | Purchased At: | Extreme Sports | | Strengths: | Light, fast, great geometry, no flex, looks great | | Weaknesses: | none so far | | Similar Products Used: | '03 S-works Epic, Blur, others | | Bike Setup: | '04 S-works epic frame, Fox F80X, CrossMax, Magura SL's, XTR, egg beaters | | Bottom Line: | I rode/raced the '03 for a year and thought it was a great bike. The '04 is just so much better mainly due to the adjustable brain. You no longer feel a "spike" when hitting a bump before the brain opens up and the shock can be made to open on even the smallest bumps. The '04 almost feels like a different bike. 1/2lb. lighter is accurate but not as news worthy as the feel of the suspension now. The carbon link is a nice touch. If you are serious about going fast, there is no better bike. Oh yeah, the F80X up front is just as amazing and is a perfect match for the rear. | | Value Rating:Overall Rating: |
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$ 4340.00
