The all-new Rider-First Engineered EPIC is in store now!

The all-new Epic comes from a pedigree of the best XC race bikes in history. And it’s now redesigned to be lighter, faster and smarter than ever before benefiting both riders and racers alike.

Lighter:
Rider-First Engineered is a technology that was introduced with the Tarmac SL5 a few years ago. Specialized’s engineers set specific ride quality targets per size, so whether you’re a size Small or an X-Large, you’ll have the same intended ride experience without it being too stiff or riding like a wet noodle. This technology brings unique layups and tube shapes for every frame size.

What is most impressive is that the engineering team was able to make a bike that holds a stiffness-to-weight number that can go toe-to-toe with any of the competition, which is the lightest in it’s class, without compromising on comfort and handling.

Smarter:
The brand new Brain takes everything that was great from earlier iterations and builds upon them. Moving the Brain closer to the axle (moment of inertia) makes for a more responsive system than before. Oil porting and flow paths have been reengineered to reduce oil turbulence and provide more consistent damping. The suspension team also addressed hose fitting, so there are no frame rub issues, making this the most visually sleek Brain package yet. Now, hoses that route oil, flow directly through the shock extension, taking out unnecessary curves and fittings.

Faster:
XC riding and racing has significantly changed. Gone are the race courses that resembled walking paths through the park. In are sections of trail that could be mistaken for an enduro track. We knew we had to address the sharp, often intimidating ride characteristics of XC bikes.

With increased reach to make for a longer, more stable front end. To keep the rider position consistent there is a shortened stem length, which also makes for quick handling. The head angle was slackened by 1.5 degrees to create an aggressive 69.5-degree angle. Those two changes combine to create a bike that is much more confident at speed and descending through steep and rough terrain, which applies the best balance of stability and snappy handling.

Other Bits:
All of the carbon Epic models have full carbon rear ends, which is a first for the Epic. To accompany the aggressive geo,  all the levels of the Epic are compatible with dropper posts. Not just the Command post XCP though, but full length droppers.

Specialized have thrown everything they had at the all-new Epic to make it the fastest XC bike you will ride. We hope you’re feeling just as stoked as we are!