First Look: Specialized Enduro Updates for 2018

Specialized first introduced their latest Enduro around this time last year, and for 2018 there are several changes to the bike in spec and geometry. I spent some time talking with the product team and getting the details on what’s new. Upon first look, the Enduro frame is nearly identical to the 2017 version— but some key details refresh the ride for 2018.

First, in keeping with current geometry trends, the 2018 Enduro utilizes a slightly longer reach, by 10-12mm on the 29 inch wheel version (depending on size) and 15mm on the 27.5 inch version. There is also a new chip in the suspension link which changes the bottom bracket height +/- 8mm and alters the head angle by .5 degrees. (Unleash your untapped watts with Get Fast! Bicycling’s complete guide to gaining speed wherever you ride.)

DANIEL SAPP

The 29” bike has an entirely new extension and link, whereas the 27.5” bike has only a new extension mated to the same link. At the high setting on the 29 inch bike, the BB is 354mm with a 66-degree head angle. With the 27.5” wheel, the BB is 350.5mm in the high setting with a 65.5-degree headtube angle.

The 27.5” bike also gets a taller headtube, and the front pivot location is slightly different, altering the end stroke of the suspension. These changes were made to normalize the reach between it and the 29” bike so that they feel the same— the pivot location remains the same as in 2017 on the 29” bike.

Fortunately, for those who purchased a 2017 Enduro, the link and extension are available for purchase (and are currently in stock) to update those bikes to the new adjustable geometry. The 29” link and extension sells for $50 and the extension for the 27.5” bike is $20.

The Enduro S-Works and Pro models make use of the larger diameter seat tube, which was introduced on last year’s Enduro but spec’ed with a standard 30.9 mm post and shim. Specialized’s new Command Post IRcc WU is 34.9mm in diameter, and provides 150mm of travel, with 12 adjustable positions. It is also unique among seat-droppers in that the head of the seat post pivots back as it is dropped, allowing for additional clearance and a more friendly position when dropped for riding aggressive trails.

DANIEL SAPP

Other updates include an Ohlins STX single tube fork (available OEM Only) on the Pro and Elite models. The S-Works bike still has the twin tube Ohlins fork. The Pro model also now comes with Roval Traverse carbon wheels. The S-Works, Pro, and Elite bikes all have 800mm wide bars as well as SRAM Code brakes. An updated SWAT tool set up is found on the S-Works and Pro models. The tool tucks neatly into a lightly sprung cradle under a top cap that pivots out of the way and a chain tool is in the steerer tube of the fork.

Stay tuned for ride impressions and a full review of the 2018 Specialized Enduro.

[“Source-bicycling”]