The "Enduro" from Specialized is probably one of the best-known and oldest enduro bikes ever. Born over ten years ago, it has been continuously developed and a number of benchmarks have been set in the process. One of the most striking was probably when 29-inch wheels were added. Wheel sizes are still a big issue at Specialized today and so it is not surprising that the new "Enduro" comes with three of them. There will be two versions - a 650b and a 29er/6Fattie.

As the name suggests, the 650b version comes with 650b or better known as 27.5-inch wheels. The geometry not only complies with the new standards but has also been slightly optimized by Specialized. The bottom bracket is slightly lower at 345 millimetres with 2.3-inch tires. The steering angle is set at 65.5 degrees for a smooth ride and the chainstays have been shortened to 425 millimetres for plenty of maneuverability. Because enduro bikes also have to be pedal-efficient uphill, Specialized has increased the seat angle to 76 degrees (size M & L). The frame sizes S and XL are 76.5 and 75 degrees respectively.

For fans of large wheels, there are not only 29-inch wheels. The "Enduro" can now also be ridden with Plus wheels - referred to as 6Fattie by Specialized. There are slight geometry differences to the 650b version: the steering angle is slightly steeper at 66 degrees. The seat angle, however, is the same. The bottom bracket height, measured with 29x2.3-inch tires, is 352 millimeters. On the 6Fattie, with 2.8-inch tires, it is 339 millimeters - in other words, quite low. Here, too, the chainstays are kept fairly short at 432 millimetres. Furthermore, the enduro bikes offer tire clearance up to 29x2.5 inches or 2.6 inches wide on the 650b model.

In the geometry data sheet, it is noticeable that 170 millimeter long cranks are now also specified for the larger models. This is a commendable step, as the 175 millimeter cranks, which are too long for trail bikes, are usually still fitted.

More suspension travel - new chassis

The "Demo 8" downhill bike was already developed together with suspension specialist Öhlins. So it was a logical step to do the same with the new Enduro. The result is a user-friendly suspension system that makes it impossible to adjust the suspension incorrectly through ignorance. This means that the basic setup of the Enduro suspension is already at a very high level. There are only the following adjustment options: three clicks on the High Speed Compression, nine clicks on the Low Speed Compression and six clicks on the Low Speed Rebound. The basic setup consists of a smooth Low Speed Compression for unrivaled responsiveness on climbs and descents alike. In addition, there is a tuned High Speed Compression for better control on big hits. As you would expect from Specialized, the Öhlins shock also comes with Autosag technology for the easiest adjustment of the negative spring travel.

With the increase in suspension travel to 170 millimetres on the 650b model and 160 millimetres at the front and 165 millimetres at the rear on the Twentyniner/6Fattie, the new Enduro comes a little closer to the former freeride bikes - only it is much more versatile.

Smuggling box and identical stock sizes throughout

Specialized's new Enduro also includes the "Swat Door Frame Storage" (Swat™ Integration stands for storage, water, air, and tools). This opens up new possibilities for enduro riders to store their small items on or in the bike instead of carrying them on their body.

It also simplifies the installation of internal cables. These are also routed more directly over the bottom bracket. This results in better shifting performance as there is less friction in the cable housings.

Commendable step to the second: Specialized not only installs oversize bearings and the associated hardware on the rear triangle, but also uses the same bearing size for the entire bike. This has the advantage that only one tool and only one bearing size needs to be purchased when changing bearings. Specialized should also not have to change the bearings so soon, as the bearings should last longer thanks to the larger dimensions. Furthermore, the increased stiffness should also improve the handling of the bike. The "Enduro" model came onto the market over ten years ago. The name has remained the same - the bike has been continuously developed further. Today, Specialized presents the latest generation. The cornerstones of the new trail bike: three wheel sizes, optimized trail geometry, the Swat Box integrated into the frame, more suspension travel and new suspension developed in collaboration with Öhlins.

www.specialized.com