For every one of you who has long lamented the lack of a long legged all mountain capable 29er, or preached the capabilities of just such a steed, Specialized has something for you.
Released today with availability this March, their new 6″ travel offers something completely unique. Wagon wheel past the break for all the details and stay tuned tomorrow for our full tech breakdown and first ride impressions.
Details
At Specialized, the design philosophy of their all mountain and trail line bikes has always revolved around building the funnest bikes possible. In honor of that tradition, the Enduro 29er has some really short chainstays.
At 16.9″, they’re only .4″ (11 mm) longer than those on the Enduro 26. Which is still shorter than the rear ends you’ll find on some of their other competitors 26″ equipped 6″ travel bikes.
They were able to squeeze everything in by removing the front derailleur. Sort of. If you’d like to run a 2x or 3x drivetrain, the “taco blade” allows you to mount a front derailleur, and it’s easily removable if you prefer a 1x drivetrain.
Given the bike’s burly 6″ capabilities, the company chose to spec it with ISCG 05 mounts. While we have yet to experience a dropped chain using the excellent new XX1 drivetrain, those looking for a little extra security, or still running older setups will still be able to mount their preferred chain retention device without having to resort to a BB adapter.
The new Command Post IR uses the same lever for three different ride heights, but now features full internal cable routing. An external valve located just below the saddle for easy accessibility allows the user to adjust the return speed.
The S-Works level frame comes with stock with a Cane Creek Double Barrel Air shock, with a special lever mounted on the low speed, in order to make quick adjustments to the pedaling platform.
The Expert and Comp models will come equipped with the new Fox CTD shock and Specialized’ unique auto sag feature for quick adjustments.
ENDURO 29er MODELS
The S-Works Enduro 29er, which came in at 27lb 15oz (with 330 gram pedals) on our scale, is the grand daddy of gangster. Stock it comes equipped with Specialized Carbon Roval Traverse SL wheels, a CCDB Air shock, 150/120mm Fox 34 Talas (with that genuine Kashima coat), Avid XO Trail Brakes, and full XX1 groupo. Sure, the $9,000 MSRP price tag will make you feel fiscally irresponsible, but that apprehension will disappear as soon as you hit the trails.
Throughout the full lineup, retail price remains the same as it’s smaller wheeled brethren.
The Enduro 29er Expert Carbon will set you back $6,600 MSRP for a mix of smartly spec’d mid and high end SRAM drivetrain and braking components.
The budget Enduro 29er Comp runs $3,500 MSRP and comes with a mixture of SRAM components – including a clutch derailleur. A dropper post does not come standard at this price point, but internal routing is standard, and aftermarket options are always available as funds permit .
GEOMETRY
Want to learn more? We’ve got more tech details and our first ride review impressions on the way! Check back with us tomorrow for the full story.
