Specialized launch the all-new Enduro
For 2017 Specialized have reworked their popular Enduro platform. In one shape or another it has been around for almost 20 years, and it just keeps getting better.
Enduro is more than just a buzz word at Specialized. For them, it's not a marketing angle, or something to pin on anything that is riding without lycra. They have had a line of bikes called Enduro for close to 20 years, and were some of the first to bring triple clamp forks to bikes that weren't destined for World Cup downhill competition.
Specialized release their new Camber, Stumpjumper and Rhyme last year – and they have proven to be popular. I thought the Camber 29er was a perfect trail bike – being fast and capable, and super efficient with the addition of the Brain. The geometry was modern, with long top tubes, short back ends, and slacker head angles – and the SWAT box, where you can store tools, clothing and spares in the downtube, might seem cheesy – but it is highly functional.
So the Specialized Enduro range brings those changes with it, with a few more progressions for 2017.
What's your wheel size?
With a shift to Boost spacing, with 110mm fron hub spacing and 148mm on the rear, Specialized have been able to create 27.5" models with some super tight chain stay lengths, but also 29"/6Fattie options as well. Why? Well 27.5" is super agile and nimble, and has the ride feel many want. But really 29" wheels are often just plain faster – and the world of EWS racing is likely to see a shift in more of the top riders on 29ers pretty soon. Graves finds a 29er faster. We hear Richie Rude does too. That doesn't mean it's for you – but that's what Specialized are doing here – giving options.
Specialized have designed the 29er frames to take the 6Fattie options of 3.0" typres if that's what the rider wants. 6Fattie, or Plus sized, gives a bucket load of traction, and is super fun. And in some areas with really loose terrain – it's just the better choice.
Travel is 170mm front and back on the 27.5" bike, and 160/165mm front to rear on the 29er/6Fattie.
Regardless, this isn't one wheel size being forced on you. It's your choice. Except 26". You'll have to chase Doc and the keys for the DeLorean if that floats your boat.
How about that geometry then?
So yeah, geometry. Really, it should be the key thing that brands focus on. Sometimes it is, sometimes it isn't. One of the things I liked most about the Camber (and Stumpjumper actually) was the handling. It worked really well. I rode with riders better than me, and didn't get dropped. Those bikes made me a better rider. Not much, but just a little bit.
Head angles are raked back to 65.5 on the 27.5", and 66.0 on the 29er/6Fattie. The BB height is as low as 339mm on the 29er/6Fattie if you run PLus tyres in 2.8". Chainstays are compact, with the 27.5" bike on 425mm, and the 279er on 432mm.
Will 279er stick as a term for bikes that can go between Plus and 29"?
Plush or mush
You can hit the right numbers, but if you don't dial your suspension tune it's all for nothing. Specialized partnered with Ohlins to make dampers just for the Enduro. It took two years to get them right, with a team dedicated to the fine-tuning. You won't find these on other bikes.
SWAT
It's a silly acronym, but as much as you might not like it, being able to have your bike set up with a chain tool, multitool, pump, tubes, CO2, levers and a jacket ALL THE TIME and all you need to think about is a bottle of water… that is just ideal. I hate riding with a back pack if I'm not heading out for all that long. I hate that companies design bikes without thinking about where you can put a water bottle. SWAT is awesome. And it's on the Enduro.
Just thread it in
Standard bottom brackets. Mechanics rejoice! Specialized are one of a few brands who have been guilty of starting new 'standards' with their road bikes in the bottom bracket area. It is hard to go wrong with a threaded bottom bracket shell, and you'll find few mechanics, either professional or home, who disagree. No more hammers, no more drifts, no more loctite, no more 2 person jobs to get the bugger out again. Just some grease, the right tools and maybe some plumbers tape.
Beefy bearings and construction
Nothing says "I hate my bike designer' more than bearings that flog out too quickly under normal intended use. It looks like Specialized have put plenty of thought into the Enduro. The bearings are larger than previously, and can be greased from both sides, ensuring optimum penetration. Even better, all the bearing sizes are the same – so if you're chasing EWS glory or just something similar in your own suburb, you can rest assured that keeping some spares on hand is simple.
While the bikes run internal cable routing, which some people love, and others hate, the routing is now above the bottom bracket where it comes external again. This is better for clearance, and creates better shifting with less loops to the back end.
The frames are 1x only which we can take or leave. At least they haven't gone 1x with no option for a chain device, which is the move a few manufacturers are making on their XC bikes. So it should be no surprise to see SRAM Eagle on the upper end models.
And the rest?
Where can you get one, what models and how much? You'll be best to track down your local Specialized dealer for that.
