Specialized gives its Enduro bike large wheels

The birds have been whistling from the rooftops for a long time that something is stirring at Specialized. The Californian bike manufacturer does not like compromises. Their new enduro bike will not be rolling around on 650B wheels, but on 29-inchers. Specialized is doing something that is otherwise frowned upon in the gravity segment. 29-inch wheels are generally considered to be sluggish in terms of handling.

The latest addition from Specialized is derived from the "Enduro 26". The geometry of the "X-Wing" frame is designed so that the rider can easily get up the mountain. However, Specialized promises that you won't have to sacrifice downhill capability. Thanks to the so-called "X-Wing" design, the frame should be very stiff with minimal weight. The short chainstays, together with the short wheelbase, are what make the bike so agile. For example, the wheelbase of the "Enduro 29" is only six millimetres longer than the "Enduro 26".

The specially tuned air suspension strut ensures a smooth ride. The linear linkage shock provides 155 millimetres of active suspension travel and ensures efficient pedalling. Specialized continues to rely on its proven "FSR" suspension system. The special feature of the rear shock is the "Autosag" technology. The trick is that when the rider sits in the saddle, the air in the shock is released through a special overflow channel until the pressure in the positive and negative chambers matches the rider's weight. This automatically sets the correct "sag" or negative suspension travel. With the "Autosag" system, Specialized guarantees perfect tuning and optimum suspension performance.

www.specialized.com