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Specialized Chisel discussion

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997K views 2.6K replies 383 participants last post by  msrothwe  
#1 ·
#1,674 ·
Whether it's worth it is up to you, fork offset changes are relatively subtle. I would definitely try a 5-10mm longer stem first as it is inexpensive and easy. Anglesets are also less expensive than a csu and are easy to resell if you don't like it

Personally if I were to change fork offsets I would just sell the fork and get another one. Otherwise you're left trying to sell a csu. You could probably find the same fork and sell the old one without losing anything, maybe even find a nicer fork since 51 offset is out of style. And yes I find the the 120/51 setup to be more stable than the stock setup
 
#1,679 ·
Hi All, total noob here! I love my 2021 Chisel Comp in Black (Large) and recently bought some DHF and DHR2 29x2.3 tires. I probably should have bought the rims first but..... i am looking at getting the DT Swiss XM1700 rims which have 30mm internal width. Checking out DT Swiss compatibility page i think these will work but wanted a second opinion from the experts (you guys). Happy to hear alternative suggestions for the rims. I weigh 80-85kg ride quite hard on mixed surfaces and dont want to baby my equipment so would prioritise durability over weight. Thanks Again. Can upload pics of my ride if anyone is interested
 
#1,681 ·
New 2021 Chisel owner here.
1945186

I bought the frame and built it up with a hodge-podge of stuff, a SID 35mm fork, SLX brakes, Arch MK4/I9 wheels, XT 11-speed, etc.

It is a really nice riding hardtail but I'm still getting the fit dialed in. A 70mm stem was too short and I was super cramped, but the 105mm I've got on there in the pic is way too long. I've got a 90mm on order, hopefully that's the ticket.
 
#1,682 ·
New 2021 Chisel owner here.
View attachment 1945186
I bought the frame and built it up with a hodge-podge of stuff, a SID 35mm fork, SLX brakes, Arch MK4/I9 wheels, XT 11-speed, etc.

It is a really nice riding hardtail but I'm still getting the fit dialed in. A 70mm stem was too short and I was super cramped, but the 105mm I've got on there in the pic is way too long. I've got a 90mm on order, hopefully that's the ticket.
What's your height? And frame size. Curiosity!

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#1,687 ·
You have a specialized dealer in your area? They have a fit system where the put the bike in the computer as well as your measurements and it gives them the sizes and specs for a fit. Might be worth a shot versus guessing and throwing parts at it.
 
#1,694 ·
Hi everyone,

I'm about to buy the Chisel 2021 model, either the base model or the Comp, depending on which I'm able to find. Here's what I'm wondering: I have an older Rockshox SID XX 100mm (the 2016 A4 model) which is well operating, recently a full service done. I'm wondering how the older SID compares to the Judy Gold that's specced on the Chisel Comp with regards to performance? I realize the weight is about 500g lighter but is it worth keeping the Judy Gold as it has newer technology than the older SID ? I also believe the Judy is convertible to 120mm if I want to do that (the geometry has enough wiggle room for that), whereas the SID doesn't allow this (there's a thread on MTBR about it). Also the service interval seems to be (twice?) longer on Rockshox forks from 2017 onwards. I do think that the Judy Silver TK version on the base model is probably still lower spec than the SID, but I'm more interested in how the Judy Gold fares against the older SID.

Also I'm 6ft tall with very long legs (35.5" inseam) and arms, generally like riding a larger bike than I should be. The size XL is recommended from 185cm (about 6ft 1 in) onwards, has similar reach to my current Kona Unit XL which I've found to be fine with 60mm stem. I would think a Large might fit, too, but I might need to use 80 to 90mm stem as the reach is about 30mm shorter than on the XL. That said, I did own a Specialized Epic HT 2017 in size Large and it was fine with a 80mm stem and 20mm setback seatpost. Also, if I decide to convert to 120mm then it also shortens the reach slightly, which would favor the XL. Stack is not an issue for me, as a long-legged I need stack and I can always play with spacers. What do you think which size I should have? Have no opportunity to test one unfortunately.
 
#1,695 ·
I'd pick the SID, every day of the week even though its not upgradable to 120mm. I've got a 120mm on my Chisel right now and I'm actually considering spacing it down to 100mm.

As far as sizing goes, I think you'd be fine on the XL if you like a larger bike. I'm about 6'-1.5" and I'm on a Large, but I could easily fit on an XL. I'm using a 90mm stem now FWIW and the handling is good.
 
#1,697 ·
Has anyone had problems with the factory installed headset creaking? I have been riding my 2021 chisel for just under 1 year and it has started developing a creek. I have taken it apart many times and regressed it, but the creek does not seem to go away.

Also, if I replace the headset do you think the Cane Creek 110 is worth the extra money over the Cane Creek 40? I like the idea of a life time warranty.
 
#1,702 ·
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2021 Chisel build. Flat out amazing bike and rides like a dream. LBS built it for me but I had to source most everything for it. Slid in right at 20 lbs even. I am beyond pleased to say the least.
amazing build!! Great bike. How do u like the SiD? Planning on upgrading the fork to the SiD SL. 20 pounds?!?!? Wow. I was hoping to get mine under 25 without breaking the bank . Its a base chisel and bone stock with pedals and a command post dropper its 27.
 
#1,709 ·
Do you notice a big difference from the Whisky bars? I'm trying to reduce some of the vibrations that come from the trail into my hands. I know Carbon is good at reducing vibration, but I was hoping for feedback if it is $150 good.
I have different bars. 31.8 carbon and the one in the pic. 35. I can say stick to 31.8 was gone make a difference is the length of the bar. Ufff I almost forget I have a FSA CARBON BAR I think is 720 and is the best in taking out vibrations. My2cents
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#1,711 ·
The construction (tube thickness, carbon layup) of the particular bar is going to have more to do with compliance than the material it's made of. I have ridden some very compliant alloy bars (SQ Labs 30x) and some harsh stiff carbon bars (Raceface 35mm, older SC bars). I have had good luck with Enve carbon bars and have heard nothing but good things about OneUp's carbon bars
 
#1,745 ·
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Just tried with 4pot XTRs. Technically they fit, but the caliper is touching the frame and pushed all the way out. So no way I’ll be able to get the rotos aligned with new brake pads. It might work with a 30-50% work out pad on the outside. But personally I’m not willing to go through that hassel for the lifetime of the frame.
I also think the XTRs are quite slim compared to other options out there. If you want I can try the current and previous (the Saint styleone) XT 4-piston calipers as well.
 
#1,715 ·
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Hi guys, this is my first post here after I've flet some Facebook Chisel owners groups. This place looks much nicer with actual content, opinions and Q&A's.
So here's my first contribution: In some regions the 2022 Chisel models are online on Specialized's website (Screenshots from France). As far as I see not much new apart from new paint schemes and a slight price increase (same as pretty much everywhere in the industry).
I originally wanted to build a LTD frame up but wasn't able to get my hands on one, so put my name down for the 2022 Gloss Red Fade Chisel Comp to replace my ageing 2016 Stumpjumper HT Carbon. My local government gives a grand for new complete bikes, so that helps getting over the LTD idea (those colors though...). According to my LBS they should be in in November, but that might change. Fingers crossed. Thanks for having me!
 
#1,720 ·
I ordered a 22 Chisel frame. This is my first bike build. Looks like I’m going end up with an XO1 Drivetrain although with probably am XT cassette. Planning on a SID Select 120mm fork but I’m not ruling out a FOX 32 or 34. My biggest question so far is the headset. I see conflicting posts and one thing say this works another says that. Some of you guys that built yours from the frame up. What headset did you go with?

Also, Anyone running a 2.4 on the rear? Thinking 2.4 Ikon and 2.6 Rekon for my general riding. While where I live is definitely XC it’s also definitely not well groomed with lots of rocks and roots. Want all the Cush I can get.

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#1,732 ·
I ordered a 22 Chisel frame. This is my first bike build. Looks like I’m going end up with an XO1 Drivetrain although with probably am XT cassette. Planning on a SID Select 120mm fork but I’m not ruling out a FOX 32 or 34. My biggest question so far is the headset. I see conflicting posts and one thing say this works another says that. Some of you guys that built yours from the frame up. What headset did you go with?

Also, Anyone running a 2.4 on the rear? Thinking 2.4 Ikon and 2.6 Rekon for my general riding. While where I live is definitely XC it’s also definitely not well groomed with lots of rocks and roots. Want all the Cush I can get.

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Hey, I've got a pretty similar setup to what you're describing. The SID Select 120mm fork is what I'm currently running and it's a pretty decent match for the Chisel frame, just be aware that it'll make the frame reach feel a bit smaller than advertised if you're on the edge of the sizing. Also, if you were going to run a setback post, you'll want to run a straight post instead. I've never ridden the frame with a 100mm though and I am a bit curious to see if it makes the bike ride better.

For tires, I'm running a 2.35 Ikon on the back and a 2.4WT Rekon on the front and have plenty of room, this is with Arch MK4 rims that are 28mm wide. I really like the tire combination. I was worried that the tire combon wouldn't be aggressive enough for the trails I do in Pisgah, but the only time I have issues is if its too muddy and honestly I probably shouldn't be riding in those conditions anyways.