New Specialized Chisel – A lightweight alloy XC whip that’s tech-heavy & wallet-friendly
Today Specialized dropped an all-new XC platform, the Chisel. It’s a full suspension endurance bike with an alloy frame. So what’s all the fuss about?
The new Chisel is a 110/120mm full suspension machine. From what I can see, the suspension platform, kinematics, geometry and intended purpose are very close to the Epic 8 (which we reviewed here). There are however, two key differentiators; the Chisel is an alloy frame and the price point is more epic, than Epic. At the time of writing, the pricing isn’t yet official but I’m told the new Chisel will be around R35k less than the base model Epic 8. That’s a chunk of change!
Yes it’s an alloy frame but it’s not chunky. In their pre-release marketing briefing, Specialized tells us they have pioneered new welding techniques that combine with some clever hydroforming to produce a frame weight of just 2720 grams. Now that’s incredibly light. For context, it’s only around 1000 grams more than the carbon Epic 8 and around 1200 grams more than the S-Works Epic 8. In fact, Specialized says the new Chisel is 18% lighter than the closest competitor and from my research, that’s not ‘Kool-Aid praat’.
Two other features contribute to the low weight of the Chisel’s chassis. The seat tube, pivot point and BB shell is a one-piece construct – meaning less welding is needed. There’s also a flex stay design on the rear – meaning less pivots are needed. The Chisel will be specced with riser bars, dropper posts and aggressive XC tyres. It’s a bike that is designed for rallying laps on your favorite singletrack, or racing. It isn’t a Cape Epic winning machine, nor will you see it at a World Cup XC race but it’s probably suitable to just about everyone else.
What’s also interesting is within their Endurance MTB lineup, Specialized hasn’t played in this price point for around five years. I think it’s highly likely this bike will increase their already massive market share across Southern Africa. All things considered, I wouldn’t be surprised if it becomes SA’s best-selling XC bike. Stay tuned for a first ride review or head over to specialized.com for more. //