Specialized’s New Epic 8 - Evolution of the fastest
Epics are the fastest cross country race bikes. Always have been. Always will be. As XC tracks become increasingly more technical, the fastest have adapted, and capability reigns supreme. The all-new Epic 8 is the eighth major frame innovation in the full suspension Epic’s heritage, evolving the formula of fastest through increased capability, efficiency, and lightweight integration.
The Epic 8 is the most capable 120mm bike on the planet. Full stop. More travel, a slacker head angle, and longer top tube translates to some serious capability and handling. Epic 8’s Specialized Ride Dynamics-tuned 3-position RockShox damper takes all the guesswork out of suspension settings, with the Magic Middle setting delivering support under pedaling and active suspension in the rough. Epic 8 is crazy efficient, too, with 20% less pedal bob while absorbing 12% more bump forces, leaving your riders feeling fresher for longer. In fact, it’s the most efficient full suspension bike we’ve ever tested. With the Epic 8, we didn’t waste a single extra gram to get all that capability and efficiency from the frame. We did all that while including the new SWAT 4.0 and an integrated steering stop to help protect the top tube.
The all-new S-Works Epic 8 is the pinnacle of XC racing. With a dedicated FACT 12M carbon layup, a carbon shock extension, and titanium hardware, we shaved an additional 76 grams from the previous S-Works Epic frameset. S-Works Epic 8 also comes equipped with RockShox’s new Flight Attendant suspension, housing a custom-tuned damper in the fork and shock, led by our Ride Dynamics team. That combination makes this suspension truly amazing. With its custom Ride Dynamics-tuned dampers, RockShox’s new Flight Attendant suspension automatically and instantaneously switches between the 3 compression damper settings (Open, Magic Middle, Lock) based on input from the rider and terrain for the fastest, most efficient ride possible.
We have four models available in New Zealand
S-Works - $24,900
Pro - $15,900
Expert - $11,900
Comp - $8,500
Epic 8 Evo
Built on the same frame as Epic 8, Epic 8 EVO enjoys all of the efficiency and frame features like SWAT 4.0 and integrated steering stop, while turning capability up to 11 for the ultimate downcountry experience. The Specialized Ride Dynamics-tuned 2-position FOX shock is the perfect setup for efficiency up the climbs and wide open, active suspension for the descents. The
Epic 8 EVO is finished out with a 130mm travel FOX fork, more powerful brakes, and chunkier tires for the most capable downcountry bike on the planet.
With Epic 8 and Epic 8 EVO gaining all this capability, helping your riders decide on their new bike is critical. For racers and riders coming from the previous Epic, Epic 8 is the clear choice. Any rider who would previously have built an Epic EVO to race (think marathon or stage races) will also be best served on the new Epic 8 due to the increased capability. For riders looking for the ultimate downcountry experience with the ability to handle more technical terrain, the Epic 8 EVO will serve them best.
We have four models available in New Zealand
Pro - $14,900
Pro Frameset - $6,500
Comp - $8,500
Independent Reviews:
https://www.pinkbike.com/news/
https://bikerumor.com/first-
https://enduro-mtb.com/en/