Beautiful Bicycle - Specialized Epic 8

With the recent release of the all-new Specialized Epic 8, we couldn’t resist doing a custom build on the Epic Evo Frameset. Luckily the shop has a wide variety of parts to spec a bike to the nines with parts ‘that were just lying around.’ While not everyone can build a bike using this method, building a bike up from the frameset turns the bike into a fun project beyond just being a new bike.

BUILD HIGHLIGHTS 

The first thing that stands out about this bike is the Silverton SL Wheelset. This particular set is equipped with a 25mm internal width, boasting stiffness and performance above all else. You notice this wheelset as you ride with increased power transfer. Plus with its 1250g weight, the rolling resistance stays down. This set has been put through the paces, having been a staple on many builds throughout the years. While the wheels aren’t sold for their reliability, seeing this set last this long without issues is a testament to the construction and attention to detail from Syncros. 

The orange Fox Factory 120mm fork keeps the bike in the Epic 8 geometry, but without the lockout that would come with it. This bike doesn’t need a lockout, unless you are a diehard racer, because of its natural pedal efficiency on the climbs. On the Fox Factory Float DPS rear shock, there is still an easily reachable climb switch, so a missing a lockout feature will not be missed. The Specialized tune on the rear shock keeps the bike handling exactly as intended, ensuring performance in all conditions up or down. 

For the drivetrain, we chose the SRAM X0 Transmission with an XX SL Crankset. Since most of the weight penalty from the X0 Transmission comes from the cranks, swapping out the cranks saved the most weight. The glossy cranks also add a pop to the all-white frame, keeping the build in style. By now you probably have heard all about the benefits of Transmission, but the lack of maintenance needed to keep it smooth makes it stand out. Transmission gives you the peace of mind that you will always be able to hop on the bike and take it for a rip without any problems. 

The rest of the build focuses on performance and long days in the saddle. The 710mm Ritchey Superlogic Handlebars are a bit narrow for most people's liking, but for a bike that prioritizes long days in the saddle, it works well. The 80mm Ritchey Superlogic Stem is also a bit long compared to the norm, again aiming for an aggressive position good for long miles in the saddle.

WRAPPING UP

When starting with a frame, a build can feel like a blank canvas for whatever goals you have for the bike. Whether you want a more trail-oriented Epic Evo or an Ultralight Epic for race day we are here to help you build your dream bike. Visit us in-store or on our website to get your build started, or check out the many different stock build specs Specialized offers, you may find what you are looking for without the need for a frame-up build.