Issue #031, Review - December 22, 2017

Specialized S-Works Stumpjumper review

Anyone who thinks that the Specialized S-Works Stumpjumper is getting a bit old-fashioned is wrong! With Öhlins suspension all around and revised SWAT integration, the bike is better than ever – but is that enough to beat the competition?

For an overview head to the main article: Everyday Heroes! – We review six of the hottest, grin-inducing trail bikes

You won’t find any Specialized branding on the Stumpjumper. Instead, the S-Works logo on the down tube makes it clear to those in the bike scene that this is the top of the range. No wonder that the componentry leaves nothing to be desired. In now typical Specialized style, the Stumpy comes with Öhlins suspension consisting of a 150 mm travel RXF 36 fork and an STX shock controlling 135 mm of travel. The latter can easily and effectively be adapted to each rider’s personal needs via the Autosag valve and a reduced number of clicks. By contrast, the fork requires a little more patience and know-how with its two air chambers. Except for the SRAM Guide RS carbon brakes and the SRAM X01 drivetrain, most components come directly from Specialized, including the fancy Traverse SL carbon wheels and the well-known Command Post (which unfortunately still only has 125 mm of adjustment range).

A highlight is the revised SWAT system, which now includes a mini-tool conveniently hidden in the head tube. The Stumpy still has the well-known SWAT box in the down tube, of course, in which you’ll be able to fit a spare tube, a pump, and other tools – awesome!

This bike likes it hard. The Specialized Stumpjumper knows no limits downhill!

The seating position on the Specialized Stumpjumper is very upright due to the tall head tube, riser handlebar, and upturned stem. Taking a seat, you’re instantaneously relaxed and ready to stay on the saddle for the next few hours. The rear linkage remains composed even in open mode, which is good because the shock can’t be locked out completely. Where the Stumpjumper comes into its own is on downhills anyway! No bike in this comparison felt faster out on the trails. The suspension is extremely sensitive and very defined. The rear end absorbs bumps like they are nothing, making it feel like there is much more travel available than the official 135 mm. Thanks to the low bottom bracket (33 mm BB drop) you almost feel integrated into the bike. The Stumpjumper begs to be pushed hard through turns, and despite the short reach (431 mm size L), its handling remains smooth and good-natured. Changing direction is snappy yet predictable, requiring little effort. If you like manualing and popping off ledges, you will love the Stumpy!

The Specialized S-Works Stumpjumper in detail

Fork Öhlins RXF 36 150 mm
Rear shock Öhlins STX 135 mm
Brakes SRAM GUIDE RS Carbon
Drivetrain SRAM XX1/X01 Eagle
Seatpost Specialized Command Post 125 mm
Stem Syntace F109 60 mm
Handlebar Specialized Trail Carbon 780 mm
Tires Specialized Butcher/Purgatory (f/r)
Wheelset Roval Traverse SL 29″
Weight 12.88 kg
Price € 8,999

Geometry of the Specialized Stumpjumper

Size	S	M	L	XL
Seat tube	396 mm	430 mm	468 mm	523 mm
Top tube (effective)	563 mm	590 mm	616 mm	648 mm
Head tube	95 mm	95 mm	125 mm	145 mm
Head angle	67°	67°	67°	67°
Seat angle	74°	74°	74°	74°
Chainstay	437 mm	437 mm	437 mm	437 mm
BB drop	33 mm	33 mm	33 mm	33 mm
Wheelbase	1122 mm	1149 mm	1179 mm	1212mm
Reach	386 mm	413 mm	431 mm	457 mm
Stack	618 mm	618 mm	646 mm	664 mm

Conclusion

The Specialized S-Works Stumpjumper is a grin-inducing bike of the highest order! If you’re looking for a bike with superb suspension and balanced geometry, this is it. The Stumpjumper is a bit of sluggish climber, preferring a slower, comfortable pace, but on the other hand, trips to a bike park or even competing in an enduro race won’t be a problem!