First Look | Specialized 6Fatti Stumpjumper and Rhyme
While at the Specialized launch, after we had checked out the new Stumpjumper and Rhymes, excitedly a new range of bikes were rolled out with a much more portly aspect. As a magazine we have spent some time testing the new 6Fatti tyres and brought you the first exclusive conclusions, and now Specialized have released bikes that are purpose built for the new 3” 27.5+ tyres. Specialized believe absolutely that the 6Fatti (27.5+) has a massive future for fun and as such they are going to release the Stumpjumper and Rhyme in 6Fatti format.
Specialized believe that all the formats, 27.5”, 29“ and 6Fatti offer advantages to different riders and want to ensure that the customer has a choice. Specialized were keen to point out that all tyres have their advantages, they believe that 27.5” is very playful and nimble, 29” is the fastest and the 6Fatti has the most control and traction, they want to leave the choice up to you. By their calculations the bigger tyre results in a 69% increase in tyre contact patch over a standard 2.3 (18psi in the 6Fatti compared to 26 psi in normal), with only a 7 watt difference in rolling efficiency. Specialized were keen to stress that although not ruling it out, these bikes are not really aimed at the racer, but at the rider who wants more confidence, to corner better and have more fun.
A lot of the specialized athletes have tried the bikes and really enjoyed them. The 3 inch wide tyre 6Fatti is almost the same weight as a 29”. The wheels are 7 mm smaller than the 29” wheel and while Specialized use the same front triangle as the 29” Stumpjumper an entirely new rear end correcst the geometry to that of the 29”. The travel is 150/135 mm and uses a 148mm Boost rear hub and 110 Boost fork.
The 6Fatti platform will be available across all the model platforms, Stumpjumper S-Works Carbon ($8600), Stumpjumper Expert ($6300), Stumpjumper Comp Carbon ($4300), and Stumpjumper Comp ($3400) and also in the Ryhme Expert ($6300), Rhyme Comp Carbon ($3800) and Rhyme Comp ($2900). It’s expected that these bikes will be available in late summer and we look forward to bringing you a test soon.
Words | Trev Worsey
Photos | Specialized / Paris Gore
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