Is Specialized now becoming mediocre?

Yes, to the extent that Specialized is now also focusing on the golden mean in terms of wheel size. Two Stumpjumper models mark the start of this paradigm shift. The Californians had long resisted seeing the advantages of the 27.5-inch dimension in terms of products and marketing.

Cannondale has recently switched its Jekyll and Trigger bikes to 27.5-inch wheels - and now the Californian bike giant is following suit. Back in February, news of Specialized's 650b tires made the rounds and the first rumours about the end of the 26/29-inch era for the Californian brand's bikes began to spread.

This spring, the mountain bike pioneer is launching two 650b Stumpjumper models: the 150 millimeter FSR Expert Carbon Evo and Stumpjumper FSR Comp Evo all-mountain bikes will feature the medium-sized wheels. The corresponding bikes, which previously rolled off-road on 26-inch wheels, will no longer be produced.In the Stumpjumper FSR Expert Carbon Evo 650b model pictured, a carbon frame forms the center, a Pike RC 650b forms the front. Shifting is handled by a Sram X01 11-speed single-chainring unit, while an XT stopper from Shimano provides the braking power. As befits the US manufacturer, numerous in-house parts such as a dropper seatpost and Roval wheels complete the bike.

www.specialized.com