News

First Look: New Specialized Enduro 650B

15.07.2014
by

From technical back-country journeys to stage racing through a mountain range, the new Enduro is built to answer the call of adventure. Already the most capable machine on the mountain, the Enduro is now available in both 29er and 650b wheel sizes, and with lightweight carbon fiber and alloy frame options there’s a perfect Enduro for all riding styles.

They said it couldn’t be done—a 155mm-travel 29er. With dialed geo for navigating technical terrain, a tight wheelbase for agile handling, plus lightweight, yet strong, wheelsets and components, the Enduro 29 is a true All-Mountain game changer. The 650b Enduro features dialed all mountain geometry, 165mm of plush, yet efficient FSR suspension, and the Command Post IR dropper seatpost to provide the optimal riding position on the fly.

Specialized announces new 650b Enduro with 165mm travel.
Specialized announces new 650b Enduro with 165mm travel.
Things got a little crazy when I decided to try a new Enduro 650b with moto, or European, style brake setup. It didn't go well. But that's what pads are for. Photo: Specialized/ Dan Barham.
Things got a little crazy when I decided to try a new Enduro 650b with moto, or European, style brake setup. It didn’t go well. But that’s what pads are for. Photo: Specialized/ Dan Barham.

What’s Awesome About It

  • Enjoy precise handling and bombproof durability from the “X-Wing” frame with All-Mountain geo. Choose between 165mm of travel for the 650b bike or the 155mm of travel 29er, both featuring PF30 bottom brackets, 142+ dropouts and internal cable routing.
  • Change your saddle height with ease with the Command Post IR, equipped with the all-new SRL (Single Ring Lever).
  • Achieve efficient climbing and confident descending on super-light, durable and tubeless-ready carbon fiber Roval Traverse Fattie SL All-Mountain wheels (available on S-Works, and aftermarket).
    • X-Wing frame with All Mountain geometry. Three models come equipped with new Cane Creek Double Barrel Inline shock.
    X-Wing frame with All Mountain geometry. Three models come equipped with new Cane Creek Double Barrel Inline shock.
    Remote-adjust, three-position mechanical dropper seatpost with internal cable routing—available in 100mm and 125mm drop options. New SRL (Single Ring Lever).
    Remote-adjust, three-position mechanical dropper seatpost with internal cable routing—available in 100mm and 125mm drop options. New SRL (Single Ring Lever).
    SRAM Guide RSC brakes on certain models.
    SRAM Guide RSC brakes on certain models.

    More Info

    By combining relaxed, plush geometries with added torsional stiffness in select areas, Specialized feels the result is a bike that can absorb huge hits and still climb swiftly. The “X-Wing” design with tapered head tube connects the top tube and down tube for an ultra-stiff design and durability at a lighter weight. The lighter frame design features a new mount for the custom-tuned shock, which coupled with our FSR technology provides 165/155mm of active, plush travel that’s efficient under pedaling forces.

    Specialized designed this lightweight carbon wheelset with 30mm wide rims to give the tire more volume. The tubeless-ready carbon rim is stronger and stiffer than alloy, so the wheels remain in-true longer, and absorb impact better. Zero Bead Hook simplifies the rim manufacturing process, resulting in a lighter-weight rim that with edges more resistant to sharp rocks and rough terrain.

    Stay tuned for a review coming soon.

    Did you enjoy this article? If so, we would be stoked if you decide to support us with a monthly contribution. By becoming a supporter of ENDURO, you will help secure a sustainable future for high-quality mountain bike journalism. Click here to learn more.

    You may also like