Anyone who thinks that the Specialized S-Works Stumpjumper is getting a bit old-fashioned is wrong! With Öhlins suspension all around and revised SWAT integration, the bike is better than ever – but is that enough to beat the competition?
For an overview head to the main article: Everyday Heroes! – We review six of the hottest, grin-inducing trail bikes
You won’t find any Specialized branding on the Stumpjumper. Instead, the S-Works logo on the down tube makes it clear to those in the bike scene that this is the top of the range. No wonder that the componentry leaves nothing to be desired. In now typical Specialized style, the Stumpy comes with Öhlins suspension consisting of a 150 mm travel RXF 36 fork and an STX shock controlling 135 mm of travel. The latter can easily and effectively be adapted to each rider’s personal needs via the Autosag valve and a reduced number of clicks. By contrast, the fork requires a little more patience and know-how with its two air chambers. Except for the SRAM Guide RS carbon brakes and the SRAM X01 drivetrain, most components come directly from Specialized, including the fancy Traverse SL carbon wheels and the well-known Command Post (which unfortunately still only has 125 mm of adjustment range).
A highlight is the revised SWAT system, which now includes a mini-tool conveniently hidden in the head tube. The Stumpy still has the well-known SWAT box in the down tube, of course, in which you’ll be able to fit a spare tube, a pump, and other tools – awesome!
This bike likes it hard. The Specialized Stumpjumper knows no limits downhill!
The seating position on the Specialized Stumpjumper is very upright due to the tall head tube, riser handlebar, and upturned stem. Taking a seat, you’re instantaneously relaxed and ready to stay on the saddle for the next few hours. The rear linkage remains composed even in open mode, which is good because the shock can’t be locked out completely. Where the Stumpjumper comes into its own is on downhills anyway! No bike in this comparison felt faster out on the trails. The suspension is extremely sensitive and very defined. The rear end absorbs bumps like they are nothing, making it feel like there is much more travel available than the official 135 mm. Thanks to the low bottom bracket (33 mm BB drop) you almost feel integrated into the bike. The Stumpjumper begs to be pushed hard through turns, and despite the short reach (431 mm size L), its handling remains smooth and good-natured. Changing direction is snappy yet predictable, requiring little effort. If you like manualing and popping off ledges, you will love the Stumpy!
The Specialized S-Works Stumpjumper in detail
Fork Öhlins RXF 36 150 mm
Rear shock Öhlins STX 135 mm
Brakes SRAM GUIDE RS Carbon
Drivetrain SRAM XX1/X01 Eagle
Seatpost Specialized Command Post 125 mm
Stem Syntace F109 60 mm
Handlebar Specialized Trail Carbon 780 mm
Tires Specialized Butcher/Purgatory (f/r)
Wheelset Roval Traverse SL 29″
Weight 12.88 kg
Price € 8,999
Specialized relies on close cooperation with Öhlins. The suspension works very well, but the fork requires patience and know-how during setup.
The Specialized logo on the head tube just looks damn nice!
Although the Command Post works very reliably, its function is somewhat dated. We would like to see a model with more stroke and no setback.
The mini-tool is simply stowed in the head tube and is always ready at hand!
Geometry of the Specialized Stumpjumper
| Size | S | M | L | XL |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seat tube | 396 mm | 430 mm | 468 mm | 523 mm |
| Top tube (effective) | 563 mm | 590 mm | 616 mm | 648 mm |
| Head tube | 95 mm | 95 mm | 125 mm | 145 mm |
| Head angle | 67° | 67° | 67° | 67° |
| Seat angle | 74° | 74° | 74° | 74° |
| Chainstay | 437 mm | 437 mm | 437 mm | 437 mm |
| BB drop | 33 mm | 33 mm | 33 mm | 33 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1122 mm | 1149 mm | 1179 mm | 1212mm |
| Reach | 386 mm | 413 mm | 431 mm | 457 mm |
| Stack | 618 mm | 618 mm | 646 mm | 664 mm |
Conclusion
The Specialized S-Works Stumpjumper is a grin-inducing bike of the highest order! If you’re looking for a bike with superb suspension and balanced geometry, this is it. The Stumpjumper is a bit of sluggish climber, preferring a slower, comfortable pace, but on the other hand, trips to a bike park or even competing in an enduro race won’t be a problem!
Pros
– plush and defined suspension
– terrific handling
– SWAT system makes backpacks unnecessary
Cons
– sluggish climber
– dropper post offers little stroke
Uphill
Downhill
Stability
Agility
Value for money
More info at: specialized.com
The test fleet
For an overview head to the main article: Everyday Heroes! – We review six of the hottest, grin-inducing trail bikes
All bikes in test: Giant Trance Advanced 0 | Liteville 301 MK14 All Mountain | Nicolai ION-G13 QLFLINE | Scott Genius 700 Ultimate | Trek Fuel EX 9.9 29
This article is from ENDURO issue #031
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