Specialized Chisel Review | This Custom-Built Chisel LTD Shows Just How Good Alloy Can Be
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 28 มิ.ย. 2024
- Wil takes us through his custom-built Specialized Chisel LTD to explain what's good, what could be improved, and why he chose this alloy hardtail as a long-term test bike; flowmountainbike.com/tests/sp...
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Specialized Chisel Video Review
0:00 - Intro
1:07 - Why The Specialized Chisel?
2:40 - The Build Kit
4:29 - Specialized Chisel Weight
4:57 - Strengths
6:24 - What Could Be Improved?
7:25 - What's Next?
8:09 - Flow's Verdict
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This is the coolest gravel bike I’ve seen in a long time.
Have a ‘19 Chisel fully decked out. XX1 wireless, Sid Sl Ultimate, Race Face Carbon post and bars, Stan’s wheels, Magura MT8SL…this bike flies! Slightly less than 22lbs. Never worry about damaging the frame because it’s aluminum! Super comfortable and a blast to ride. Climbs great and descends way better than one would think, not twitchy at all. Highly recommended.
Love the build, well done Will! Would love to get one of these frames :) Come on Specialized AU, time to bring them in!
Nice ride! I have a standard 2021 Chisel, completely stock and I really like it a lot.
That's a beautiful build! Excellent work!
Cheers mate, I'm absolutely frothing on it! [Wil]
Looks great. Reminds me of my old Specialized Crave.
Just bought a Chisel today based on this review. Thanks.
Any regrets?
I wanted to do the same because building your own bike has been on my bucket list. Availability of stuff was an issue and while pondering- I ended up snapping up an epic Evo instead when it appeared at the LBS….. but one day!
This is one sick bike mate!🔥🔥🔥
The whole blue accent from the fork and frame, to the Tan wall tires….mmmm 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks very much mate! I thought the blue SID would be a bit much at first, but since building it up I'm stoked with how it's turned out 🤙 We get a lot of all-black bikes for testing, so it's nice to have something with a pop of colour! [Wil]
I’ve watched this video so many times in building my own custom Chisel LTD . Went the same way with the fork and divine sl dropper (except with bontrager droplock lever). X01 AXS drivetrain and XT 2 piston brakes. Incredible bike and feels very stable downhill. Would’ve liked a universal derailleur hanger to option it with the new transmission drivetrain, as with the alloy frame not as much fear with damaging the frame. But much cheaper going old gen. Thanks for the reviews!
AHHH another top notch video!!!
Thanks mate, appreciate the feedback! [Wil]
Fully was expecting a Cold Chisel pun… the restraint! Great review, looks like a fun bike.
So much restraint 😂
Depending on terrain, this looks like a winner!
beautiful custom - built!... I would only swap those brakes for a full XTR setup but the rest of the component are perfect!..
I hope you will do a review of the 2022 BH lynx race carbon rc 7.0... Great review as always. Keep up the great work!
WELL DONE REVIEW, MATE...After a brief stint on a 2020 OPEN Upper frameset, which resulted in catastrophic failure in the rear lower seat stay, I purchased the 2020 SPEZ Chisel frameset I love to date. The only issue on my build was that, for some reason, when transitioning on the bike, my rear heel would rub on the Hydo brake caliber causing the banjo to loosen and leak. I modified this with a clear piece of heated plastic zip tied to the frame as a guard. Other than that it's a great frameset worth the investment 🇺🇸.
super interesting vid, thanks.
Looks amazing. If I took a couple of deep breaths and cast away the memories of my GT Zaskar ride quality from 1991 I'd sign up:-)
I know what you mean Brady! I think there are spines out there that are still tingling from some of those earlier alloy hardtails 😂 [Wil]
Zaskar was what the first downhill riders used. Hardcore!
Amazing bike build but I would really like to see a breakdown of the price because it never quite make sense that what you can get from a factory bike
Great video. Did you mention how much your build weights? Thanks.😊
I love this bike, I upgrade the wheels with Roval Control SL and now love more the Chisel !!!
Nice one Bruno - those Control SL wheels are amazing! How much does your Chisel weigh with those wheels? [Wil]
@@FlowMountainBikeTH-cam 11,4 kg with pedals, lights and 2 bottle cages.
Awesome build!
Thanks mate, glad you dig it! [Wil]
Got mine down to 22.1lbs with pedals and bottle cages thanks to BERD wheels. Still lacking a few reasonable light weight parts. Minus XX1 Crankset, Shifter, Derailleur, and light weight brakes. Be close to low 21pounds.
i like how the cranks flick between gx and xx1
Looks cool. Dig it. 😎
Cheers mate!
I'm getting one to set up for rough trail/casual downhill. I like my bike to be as light as possible but I'm also on a budget. I think it'll be fun to throw this thing down a mountain side (I only ride hardtails so I'm used to riding them hard)
Finally was able to get my Hands with Spez Chisel
Great review and awesome build Wil! Btw are you still riding your Chisel in 2024?
I have nearly the exact same build. I still have all the AXS gear on mine. I went from 100 to 120 fork and it really opened up the liveliness of the bike. I felt a little too far forward at 100. 120 is perfect.
The bike rides better than any other HT I’ve owned (12 total). All I need is the XX1 crank set and I’m done.
I’m also running XT 4-piston brakes with no issues for those wondering.
Hi, im thinking about buying the chisel. Do you also recommend it for riding trails and small jumps and all that stuff? Would also upgrade to 120 fork.
@@bengtr8745 yes. I ride all types of trails. Easy and technical. It’s a great all around bike. I don’t jump much but I think that more depends on your level of riding. It’s a great bike.
@@JordanHMay thanks! Hope I will be able to get a chisel soon :)
Thanks for the video! How does this compare with the epic ht?
The best ride reviews Down Under! Enjoy our summer before it bounces back up ;)
Cheers Tim! We'll arrange to send the summer weather back your way ASAP - it's too hot here! [Wil]
@@FlowMountainBikeTH-cam lol
Beautiful bike, Wil. Given a similar spec, do you think a bike like this gives up much vs an Epic HT?
Any chance you might update the review with 35mm sid?
Thanks!
Hi Wil, been following Flow Mountain Bike.
recently got my specialized chisel.
wondering which fork is better for a 100mm travel?
interms of reliability, comfort and ease of maintenance? Rockshox SiD SL Ultimate? or Fox 32 factory step cast? im still newbie to high-end stuffs.
thanks for the feedback
I have the GA3 for my Brompton. It's great
That's a great custom-built Chisel! I'm totally in love with mine too, riding it with a 35mm SID on my local trails and on XC-Marathon races.
If you upgrade the rear brake to a 180mm disc you can easily fit a 4 piston Shimano brake ;-)
Glad you're digging your bike Lukas, and thanks for sharing your experience with the rear brake setup - that's good to know! [Wil]
Legend. Was looking at getting a complete comp and putting my XT 4 piston brakes on it until I watched this.
Thanks for confirmation I can still do that 👍
Great video, really helpful. I’ve just got a Chisel frameset and am in process of sourcing parts, are they’re any wacky things to bare in mind? You mentioned you had trouble finding callipers to clear rear seat stay, is that the same for all 4 piston brakes? Do you know if the Hope Tech 4 X2 brakes would fit this frame for example? (my first complete bike self build so trying to avoid costly beginner mistakes).
Thanks mate, glad you found the video helpful!
As others have mentioned in the comments, brake calliper clearance doesn't seem to be an issue if you're running a 180mm rotor. Regardless of rotor size, I think you'll be sweet with the Hope Tech 4 X2 brakes as those callipers are fairly small.
I don't think there are any other whacky things to consider - the frameset comes with a headset supplied, the BB is threaded, and the seatpost diameter and Boost hub spacing are all normal standards. The Chisel is designed to work with a standard Boost 52mm chainline, so you don't need to source a wider 55mm crankset/chainring.
Good luck with the rest of the build!
[Wil]
Great bike! I have a 2018 Honzo with similar geometry (though much heavier). I wonder if it would be worth upgrading it with similar parts at a slightly lower spec.
Cheers Eric! Good question on the Honzo - I guess it'll depend on your riding style and terrain. Those bikes are built up with some pretty burly parts, which makes them very capable but quite heavy. If you're looking to drop some weight, lighter wheels and faster tyres make the biggest difference for sure. [Wil]
Great project Will !! I really (really!) wanted to do my own Chisel build, but sadly all frames are sold out here in Europe. Now I might get my hands on a Chisel Comp and strip it, but that bike retails for the same amount as the new base model Cannondale Scalpel HT, which is in stock and has a carbon frame that looks very promising when it comes to geometry and compliance. So, as much as I love the alloy Chisel, it leaves me doubting if it’s really worth it for my build-project. Guess I have to wait for Flow’s full Scalpel HT review before I decide on that one .. ;-)
Certini in England have chisel fire and water frames available, check out sizes on their website
@@jackbrady657 Thanks! Will check it out.
Same situation with me. been sniping a few online shops, second hand and so on for over a year. Scott scale 930 2022 about same price :(
I found a second hand ‘21 Chisel comp for 1/2 prove, it was barely used, and stripped it. Got the weight down under 10 kg now, including pedals but without a dropper. Really like the bike, there is something cool to a sturdy metal bike that just works.
@@basrutten1767 Good for you, mate! Where did you find it?
Ah, good ol'trusty hardtail. What fork offset to do prefer for this style of bike?
Hi! The offset of the fork was 42 for the stock model. Did you change it for a 44 one with this rockshox sid?
I love it, great build!! Is this a small or medium frame?? Thanks✌🤓
Cheers mate! It's a Medium size to suit my 175cm height. Fits like a glove! [Wil]
Beautiful bike
I have a 2018 one. My biggest concern is when I try to get down some cut with "ruts"?... Fear involves me because I see myself too high at my position (1,80m). This fear didn't happen to me with a 26". What is going on?
Dang I wish I had the luxury of just emailing companies and getting a completely sold out frame, to ride in between my time spent riding other completely sold out bikes. 🤔
A bit late to this game, but I just tested a pair of 4piston SLX calipers (from another bike) on my size L frame (I think it’s a 2022-2023), and they clear just fine. I don’t have wheels or hoses yet, but no problemst with the seat stays, even in closest position? Perhaps someone can explain the problem, before I go and buy a set?
I love my chisel!
Lovely Frame
Hi there, this question goes out of topic, but i own a chisel, i used to race on trails with it but i am currently recovering from an eye injury so i cannot longer race though i don't want to sell it, does someone know if i could use it for some type of touring use, will the frame hold up?
Thanks
Great .... is it a medium size ?
Hows the sizing on the chisel, would a medium frame be too small for my 5'10'' height?
Im ready to ditch my steel trailbike for something a lot lighter and this just hits the spot perfectly.
I am 5’10 and my chisel is perfect for my size
Medium
My chisel 2021 Ltd earth size s
-9.67kg with pedal xpedo m force 8
-xtr cassett+ chain
-xt rd+shifter 12s
-xt brake set 2 piston
-xt crankset 34t
-shimano mt800 disc brake 180+160 ice Tach
-fork sid ultimate 100mm
-xr 1700 dtswiss wheel
-2.25 schwalbe super race racing ray
-carbon s work handbar
-carbon s work seatpos
-carbon saddle non brand
-carbon stem 70mm 17°
I dont know what much kg if im use carbon wheelser
Do you think was worth buying just the frameset? From what I've seen is better to buy the cheapest version with Deore / Judy silver and strip it out like mentioned. Except from the color exclusivity, the standard version looks like a better start to me.
I'd agree - I was going to do exactly that, but availability on complete bikes was an issue. If you can get your hands on one though, that'd be the smart way to go for sure. [Wil]
@@FlowMountainBikeTH-cam nevertheless, your bike looks awesome! Good job!
Do you happen to know what’s changed between the 2019 Chisel and that one geometry wise?
They got longer. Reach on mine is 418, new Chisels are 430. The head tube went from 69.8 to 68 degrees.
How much your specialize chisel frame set?
Excellent video, one question, The handlevar when size?
Reggards, atte José.
Hi there Jose! The handlebar is an integrated bar/stem from Bontrager. It has a 750mm width and a virtual length of 70mm. [Wil]
@@FlowMountainBikeTH-cam Tenks, reggards. 😃
I have the green frame i plan to put a marzocchi z2 in 120mm what do you think? This frame is really impresive not so much for the climbing ability which is good i say in the range of any xc frame but the downhill performance is incredible for a xc hardtail as good as a trail bike so i planing on make it a bit XC trail bike
Nice one Pepe! I understand that Specialized rates the Chisel frame for use with up to a 110mm travel fork. That means fitting a 120mm travel fork will void the warranty - something to bear in mind. I've not ridden my Chisel with a bigger fork yet, but I'm keen to try it out! [Wil]
Did you end up doing the upgrade? I am also considering putting the bomber on mine, but I'd stick with 100mm because it has the same axle to crown as stock and won't void the warranty. I believe the 34mm stanchions will make a bigger difference than the 20mm of extra travel.
My Chisel ltd Fire .....weighs a ton compared to yours....12kg....too heavy, Hope wheels n hubs,Maxis Ardent race 2.20, XT gears, drive, and brakes and Judy gold forks, Pro lite stem bars.....dont want carbon, but want to get it down to 10.5 kg.....for day long gravel type missions. Guess its the forks mainly.Ride quality is great. Chisel geo is spot on for me👍
Would love to see the breakdown of price to see if it's worth doing or just buying a better bike
I know the frame is designed to use a 100mm fork but... do you think it will work well with a 120mm one? I'm planning to purchase a Chisel frame and would like to use my Fox 34 SC 120mm fork on it... Thank you!!
Hey Alberto! I've not tried it personally, but there are quite a few Chisel owners who have and seem to like it. Specialized doesn't recommend it however, as the frame is only rated for use with up to a 110mm fork. That's what I'll be trying next - we've got a RockShox SID Ultimate and a Fox 34 SC that we're going to be doing a head-to-head review on, and I'll be testing those forks at 110mm travel. If you're interested, keep an eye on flowmountainbike.com for that review. [Wil]
I cant get over how light it is
I have a XL size Chisel comp and pretty much changed everything towards more burly: Shimano Trail wheels, grippy Maxxis tyres, Funn carbon handlebars, 4 piston calipers, a 120mm Sid Ultimate, OneUp dropper ... weight is about 12.5kg but it's plush and compensates for my lack of skills.
i have a Old School Ghost Lector EBS with Manitou R7 MRD und other Tune/Schmolke customs... = 7,3kg
How is the geo changes due to the longer fork?
According your video i can use 4 -piston caliper from shimano in the rear?
Yep - there was clearance for a 4-piston SLX calliper on our size Medium test bike. [Wil]
How much for that set up?
Looks great, but wouldn't you want at least 28-30mm inner rims for 2.35-2.4" tires?
My gravel bike came with 25mm inner rims for 38mm tires..
I'm running now i30mm on mtb and even for cross country I just can't see myself going back,
I think it depends on both the tyre in question and what kind of ride quality you're after.
On this bike, I personally quite like the more rounded profile of the 2.35in tyres on the Crank Brothers XCT rims. It gives them a little more compliance, and the tyre inserts help to add some sidewall stability - it's a really nice balance that suits my size and riding style well.
Heavier riders may appreciate the added sidewall support that comes from running a wider rim, though again it'll depend on the tyre that's being fitted.
We're also testing a Giant Anthem at the moment, which came supplied with a set of 2.35in Maxxis Rekon Race tyres fitted to 30mm wide rims. The tyre profile was far too square however, resulting in unpredictable cornering traction and less overall compliance. That stands to reason, as those tyres are really designed for 25mm wide rims. I've since sourced some 2.4in Wide Trail tyres (which production bikes will come with), and traction is much better as a result.
[Wil]
@@FlowMountainBikeTH-cam Thanks for the response, it's wicked as always, Wil.
The stock chisel has 2.3" tires on 25mm rims.
@@theymademepickaname1248 I don't think there's a 2.3 WT tire though.
The Fuze Comp ships with 29mm inner rims and 2.6 tyres…. Specialized Eliminator, they are huge for a 2.6, despite the 29mm.
Got a good 2 inches of drop post
Brand of your shirt?
What is your tire size for this build?
Hi Japhet! All the build specs can be found here: flowmountainbike.com/tests/specialized-chisel-review-ltd-2022/ [Wil]
Is it worth doing something similar to a Fuse 29er?
As in, putting on lighter components? [Wil]
Hey! Do you think it would be ok if I change the judy (OEM) fork to a 35mm 120mmtravel SID? Would it change the geometry dramatically? Thx!
Yep. If you want travel build a Fuze M4 frame up with a 130 or 150.
What's your size of bike frane, end your height?
I'm on a Medium size to suit my 175cm height. [Wil]
If ur between frame M and L what frame should you get
If you're in between sizes, I'd recommend upsizing if you can, though it might depend on how you want your cockpit setup.
Going for a larger frame size will allow you to run a shorter stem, while getting a longer wheelbase for more stability. If you prefer a racier setup though, the smaller size will mean you can run a longer stem and achieve a lower and more aggressive position.
FWIW, I stand at 175cm tall and I'm on the Medium frame with a 70mm stem and 750mm wide bars, and it fits me really well.
Hope that helps!
[Wil]
Beautifull what's size is this???
That's a Medium size mate! [Wil]
I am guessing the Chissel is to MTB'ing what the Allez is to MTB.
This is my Specialized Chisel custom setup.
MTB frame 29" size S
Groupset deore XT 2x11, 36/26, 40T
Brake deore XT
Fork RockShox Reba
Front tyre Maxxis Ardent Race 29x2.20
Rear Tyre Maxxis Crossmark 29x2.10
Rim carbon Novatec Factor 129
Are u using 2 or 4 piston ?
@@arifazhari7598 pistons ? 🤔
I am 5/10 will this bicycle fit me
👍👍
What's the weight of a base chisel ?
Not too sure Joel, as we've not had one in to test. Based on the spec, I reckon it would probably be around the 12kg mark. [Wil]
Where can I buy bottles like yours?
If you're looking at the single bottle setup, that's a Camelbak Podium: camelbak.com.au/products/podium?variant=39476851605685
The dual bottle setup is a set of Purist water bottles with SID logos that we were sent from RockShox. Doesn't look like they're listed on the SRAM website, though I did manage to find the ZIPP version: www.sram.com/en/service/models/ac-pur-wbtl-a1
[Wil]
What valve stems are those?
They're the standard tubeless valves that come supplied with the Crankbrothers Synthesis XCT 11 wheels, though I've added some Granite Designs valve caps that are made from machined alloy and have a valve core tool built into them. [Wil]
Yeah, tidy bike. 👍
Thanks Tim! [Wil]
You guys size up or down for this bike I'm 5'10
I'm 175cm tall and I'm on a medium Chisel. It fits me well, but if you're a bit taller than me then chances are you'll want to check out the large size.
That said, it may come down to what kind of cockpit you want to run - if you're after a more aggressive setup for XC racing, having a shorter reach and a longer stem with narrower bars may be preferable. [Wil]
I’m 176cm 5/10 and I’m on the large size and love it.
It’s pretty lame u can’t buy specialized frames here in Australia like in the USA….. I want to get a fuse and a chisel frame set but nope gotta buy the whole thing …. Specialized really needs to fix this
total weight?
9.73kg without tyre inserts. Bit more info on weights and spec here: flowmountainbike.com/tests/specialized-chisel-review-ltd-2022/
Great bike , rides smooth th-cam.com/users/postUgkxHL1v1R3NE5x4KiYfyt8dnQmyNYz7qi5L I added a bigger spring loaded seat to it . Takes a bit of adjusting cables to get brakes and shifting to perfect . I've owned quite a few bikes in the past that were absolutely uncomfortable to ride and they always ended up as garage wall decor . I'm not seeing that with this one. It's pretty light I've only ridden it a few miles but I like it . As for the pedals falling off in the other reviews , the pedal arms are aluminum along with the pedal studs look to be also . I would not overtighten them. I can see it would be very easy to overtighten them and strip the threads right off . All in all I think it's pretty good quality besides the aluminum pedal thing .
Most of normal countries riders has rear brake on right side and front on te left. There is no point to make another hole in frame for uk and australia!!
and I thought hardtails were dying out...
Lovely jubly
For god sake it's 1400 g but in xs size!!! Medium weight 1603g.
It might depend on the paint job - our Medium size test bike weighed in at 1,500g on the nose. That's including the thru-axle, headset cups, derailleur hanger and chainstay armour. I suspect a raw frame without those other bits will be pretty close to the 1,400g claimed weight. [Wil]
Give away im from dubai
Why not the sid brain? 🫣
I already had the SID SL, so that's what went on the Chisel. It'd be interesting to try the SID Brain on there though - Specialized actually has a new one coming that you'll hear about soon ;-) [Wil]