Specialized introduced the lightest and fastest XC bike on the planet, the S-Works Epic 9 Ultralight LTD. The result of 24 years of XC innovation.
The Epic 9 is 206 grams lighter that its predecessor. In combination with the improved suspension friction, this makes it the fastest XC bike Specialized ever made. Available for everybody and in action this weekend during the first round of the UCI XCC and XCO races.
The weight reduction took place on several places of the bike; the front frame, the main hinge, seat tube, rear frame and mounting material. Total savings 206 grams versus the Epic 8. Total weight of the frame: 1.589 grams. Total weight of the bike: 8,5 kg.
But the weight is not the only improvement. The Epic 9 features an external SWAT box, so you can save weight when you don’t need it, an improved integration structure of the shock absorber mount, a reduced wall thickness of the seat tube and a lighter carbon hinge joint.
The Epic 9 is the ultimate XC weapon with a 3-position lock-out suspension on fork and shock. The kinematics, frame and damping work seamlessly together for maximum speed per watt. Even as the terrain gets rougher.
We are anxious to see the results this weekend in Korea. Or admire it at the local Specialized dealer.
Specifications
Frame: S-Works FACT 12m Carbon, Progressive XC Race Geometry, Rider-First Engineered™, threaded BB, 12x148mm UDH compatible rear dropout, internal cable routing, 110mm of travel, optimized for wireless drivetrain.
Fork: RockShox SID SL Ultimate, Ride Dynamics developed 3 position, Debon Air, 15 x110mm, 44 mm offset, 110mm travel
Shock: RockShox SIDLuxe Ultimate, Ride Dynamics developed 3 position, TwistLoc remote adjust, Solo Air, 190×45 mm
Brakes: TRICKSTUFF Piccola, 2-piston, carbon lever blade, Ti hardware, 160/160 mm rotors
Drivetrain: SRAM XX SL Eagle AXS, 12-speed, 34t/10-52t
Handlebar: Roval Control SL integrated cockpit with Supacaz Supalite grips
Seat post: Bike Yoke Divine SL
Saddle: S-Works Power with Mirror
Wheels: Roval Control World Cup
Tyres: Specialized Air Trak, 29×2.35”
Colour: Satin Carbon Black
Weight: 8,56 kg (MD)
Price*: € 13.999
*Manufacturer price, this could vary by country, pls check your local supplier
Images/video: Specialized