I am retired and live on Michigan's west coast with a mile long public beach on lake Michigan across the street and last year discovered a MTB park 20 miles inland so a year ago I decided to start riding again. I still have my original MTB, a 1993 Gary Fisher Marlin and decided to upgrade to a Polygon Xtrada 7 1x12 hardtail Large frame 29er based on the online bike size calculator. The bike fits me well at 5'9" tall. I then used 5'8 1/2" in the calculator which suggested a Medium frame with 27.5" wheels so I order another Xtrada 7 in that size.The goal was to ride both bikes for a year to compare before buying a full suspension in 2023. After lots of research with the help of you and other channels on youtube regarding wheel and frame sizing, trail vs down country, ideal suspension travel, etc... I took advantage of two black Friday specials. The Polygon Siskiu T8 Medium frame 27.5" wheels Fox rhythm 34 150 mm fox float 140 mm with 65 d HTA and short 425 chainstays It's my rowdy black diamond playbike. For the flowy XC trails I'm riding a Canyon Neuron AL 5 with Rockshocks F/R 140/130 travel, 29" wheels, 67 d HTA it is a great climbing down country bike that is comfortable on those epic all day rides. So I would like to Thank you for all the work you do that helped me find a pair of bikes that I will be enjoying for many years to come. I am a subscriber and will be watching ! Thanks, David
Now the question, did you throw your cross country wheels on it? Like your spur testing. It would be really interesting were it lands! How close it would get.
Fantastic feedback, I'm also trying to decide between trail and all-mountain, so 130/140 vs 150/160. My old bike is an 29" hardtail, so just need the right alternative for long weekends with fun. There is so much you need to keep track of these days to get the right bike for you.
I live in the Swiss Alps and I'm 40 and MTB, Snowboard and Ski my entire life. I own a 185/ 160, 150/ 150 and a 120/120. Now, there is nothing a 150/150 can't handle, but the truth is with modern bikes you are simply over-biked most of the time. I've tested different bikes over the last 12 months to figure exactly out how much travel I really need For my new Bike and I came to the conclusion that a 140/130 Bike with a modern slack enduro frame (Stumpjumper comp/expert) is truly the sweat spot for a do it all Bike. Even the new Scott spark with 130/120 is Insanely capable. Go with 140/130 and you are fine for 95% of the time, and every descend and climb is a fun experience. You can always get a second set of tyres for more gravel/street stuff.
I absolutely love my 2022 carbon stumpy. Travel-wise it's just as comfortable and capable on techy decents as my 150mm rear travel Remedy was, but it's also a bike that begs to go fast and gives you back everything you put into it. By a wide margin it's the best bike I've ever ridden.
I currently have a Remedy and am looking at a stumpy for my next bike as I want less travel and 29’ as my local trails don’t require a 150/160. I am still keen to do local and regional enduro races though. Have you take the stumpy on rowdier trails yet?
Thanks for the long term review of this bike, my dream bike. Was thinking about buying the base model (Alloy), but many people I've seen complain about the bike's brakes and derailleur.
Thanks Clint for the thorough review. Looked at a stumpy pro today at my LBS, going back tomorrow to purchase it. With the sale it is over $2000 off at the moment, seems like a pretty good deal to me.
@@s4aragonI agree, don’t like that colour either. I’m looking at the brown in the expert. It’s not my favourite colour but I’d prefer that over the white that Clinton has here.
@@WillyBFree6 love it, absolutely a ton of fun. I thought I would dislike the 29 in tires when climbing and in tight rock gardens, but they are amazing, especially when bombing downhill or trying to get over obstacles on the trail.
As an owner of a 21 stumpy expert like this I have to say you nailed it on all points. The tires are really a catch 22- speed or hella grip? My only complaints for mine are shifting has never worked 100% for me and (this was fixed with the 22 model) the horrible 3-pawl engagement on the rear. 1000% agreed on the rear shock as well. Even on harder trails I can feel it heats up and gives that classic flat tire effect. It would be interesting to test it with a x2 version of the DPS. Ride on sir keep up the great content!
Excellent show and review. I have the 2021 version and love it as well. A year or so ago I send out the herd and (regrettably)sold my XC bike so now I wondering how this bike would do on a 12 hour XC race with proper XC wheels and tires
i wanted to buy one last spring but were totally out of stock on a Stumpjumper models. Ended up buying a YT Izzo. Izzo has similar geo and has been awesome so far.
Bikes like the pivot Switchblade may convince you that it's not just travel but also geo that changes playfulness. The smuggler 140/130 is long and slack and it handles much less playfully than the more modest geo of the pivot Switchblade which is 160/142. I demoed a ton of bikes rhe other day at outerbike and it was eye opening as to how travel, geo and kinematics/shock all come together to make the total package.
That’s a really good review man! I just got my first full suspension bike and it is the stump jumper comp alloy very similar to the one, it’s just aluminum, but I tell you what the bike feels amazing, I just love it!
I've been thinking that maybe an ideal all-around bike might be something with a light-weight frame, 120mm efficient climbing/pedaling XC-ish rear suspension, 160mm Fox 36 fork, and fairly modern progressive geo. What I'm going for is a capable descender that is still a light-weight efficient climber. When I look at the Stumpjumper, I can't help but think that the bike would be much better with a 150mm Fox 36 fork or even a 160mm Fox 36 fork if the geometry was right. I recently bought a 150/160mm travel carbon Stumpjumper EVO Expert which I have been pushing toward the Downcountry side. I've put on 2.6 front and 2.4 rear Maxxis Rekon tires, adjusted the geo to the shorter wheel base, adjust the rear suspension to maximize climbing, and have been slowing adding lighter parts when possible. What I'm shooting for is a light-weight bike that rolls fast and climbs well while still being very capable when descending or covering rough ground. I'm lookin for the love child of a Downcountry bike and an Enduro bike. Can the Stumpjumper EVO be a better Downcountry bike? I think so.
This is a great bike and platform if you are not trying to do true DH. With a few extra parts, you can have a more aggresive down country bike or a mini enduro. I have a 34 at 140mm and a 36 at 150mm which I switch out depending on the terrain. As well, two wheels sets, one with XC and one with Enduro tires gives me all the options I need for my area.
Oh, and also have a float x and dps that I switch out depending on what I am doing. Float X is a little more compliant and stays more consistent in long descent days.
Great review, Clint! The Butcher is definitely pretty slow-rolling, but it is Specialized's more All-Mountain (borderline enduro) tire. For faster rolling but still pretty good grip (especially if it's dry), is an Eliminator (F)/Purgatory (R) combo (though it's probably not Rekon-level rolling speed).
I just got this bike and agree with you. The T9 Butcher, while it's certainly grippy, feels a bit sluggish. I was thinking of putting the Purgatory up front and a Ground Control T5 on the back to speed things up.
I ski double/triple blacks, trees, bumps, etc. I am nowhere near that level in Mtn biking and hear about wanting to get more of a bike than you need. I was looking at a Trek or Yeti full suspension, but at the end of the day, I picked up a Trek Marlin 7 hard tail for just under a grand. It’s an awesome spec for that money and climbs like the wind due to a huge sprocket in the rear (1x11). The geometry is very aggressive, plus the 29” wheels are phenomenal. The geometry of this Stump Jumper looks less aggressive. Yes/no? Thanks. Great review of a great bike!
Great reviews on the stumpjumer Clint, they really helped me in my decision to purchase a stumpjumper. Ive had my bike for about 3 weeks now and have just tried out the high Postion on the flip chip, did you find that it feel like it felt that you where sit quite high.
I would believe you would be happy with the specialized epic evo , and you would be happy with your new PR with the epic evo ? Plus 2 water , I really want a long travel bike but , I have been riding MTB for 30 years and it’s just confusing, the bikes are so slack and they are getting better at climbing but , 30lbs for a mountain bike is nuts 30 years ago even 20 lbs was normal for a race bike ! Kudos
Circling back to this video I don't think the new SJ15 is gonna beat this bike for any XC style trail riding. I am gonna miss those flex stays too, so responsive.
I have the EVO I bought about a year ago and had it custom painted. love the bike, I am maybe a little over biked on it but I am ok with that. if I could change 1 thing it would be the brakes, I just prefer Shimano. The GX shifters are fine but I prefer shimano shift levers as well. Now if I could just find some grips that didnt have that sticky coating on them, I would be set.
Thanks for this detailed review. I have an EVO and ride in Tampa 99% of the time. Too much bike and I'm thinking about flipping over to a regular Stumpy. Just curious, I know you're a Transition guy, any chance you are doing a review on the Smuggler coming up? It's another bike that's caught my eye and would be curious to hear your opinion.
Very possible. I may purchase one this summer or try to get a demo sent to me. The numbers are very similar to the Stumpjumper. For Mainly riding in Florida the Spur is perfect. The smuggler would be a bit too much bike on most Florida Trails.
sorry for being late to the party. But what an amazing review did you make here!! I just bought one myself. I just wanna know where you got the bell from? I really like the concept!
Did a test ride on both evo and non-evo stumpy experts. Love the evo for feel and reach. There’s also expert RS with rochox lyrik suspension. Would love feedback on the rockshox version of the ST evo ? Thanks.
It’s been a very long time since I’ve ridden a scalpel but when I did it was a very agile bike with quick acceleration. Cannondale makes very good quality bikes. I’m not a fan of the lefty fork so I would use a regular Fox fork.
Hey Clint, Thank you for the long-term Review. I recently managed to order myself the S4 Stumpjumper Comp Carbon in White/Black for 3250 US (3150 CHF) here in Switzerland from a local dealer. I usually ride Scott Bikes (Genius) with 150, 150 travel and after riding it hard for years It needed a replacement. Based on your recommendation and my experience with the Scott Spark (A bike similar to the Spur) I ordered the Dirtskirt. I'm still on the fence how and what parts i want to protect on the frame let alone with what. I know i don't want to wrap the entire Bike, just some parts. Any recommendation would be appreciated. It will take another couple of weeks until my Stumpy arrives, perfect for Spring! Keep up the god work and cheers from Switzerland
I love my Sworks Stumpjumper but too stiff downhill. Does it make a difference to change the 34 to a 36 Fox factory fork and/or change the rear Shock from a Fox dps to the Fox float X? If so, what would work best for this bike, Fox or Rockshox and would you match brands with the fork and shock? Thank you so much, I really need help with this. I am 210 without gear. Thanks
Great review as usual! I, too, live in Florida and was deciding between the stumpy and epic evo. After test riding both I ultimately went with the epic evo as I felt the evo was a bit more playful handling, particularly on the slower technical trails like we have in Santos. Either way you can't go wrong.
For riding mainly in Florida the epic Evo is the best choice. You did well! I have the stumpjumper for riding in the mountains. The spur is for most Florida trails where I’m not racing or training for XC.
Hey Clint. Great video again, thanks a lot.... I am thinking about buying Stumpjumper Evo frame and put on it coil shock. The main problem for me is to choose right size. I am between 5′ 9″ and 5′ 10″ and not sure what to choose S3 or S4. Specialized size calculator chose for me S4, but I am afraid that it will be a little big for me(reach is 470 mm.). Also I can't find these sizes to try it. Can you share your opinion about Stupmy size and handling? Thanks in advance
I’m 5’8” and the S3 fit me really well. Typically the shorter stem you run the better the bike feels so you don’t want to put yourself in a situation where you get an S3 but need to put on a longer stamp to increase the reach. Does your shop have an S3 or S4 in stock that you could ride around the parking lot?
would you recommend this compared to the neuron CF SL 2023? I ride mostly tamed trails, not too rowdy/rooty/rocky, prefer also something that is a good climber. I was about to pull the trigger on the canyon but saw this review and sales going by specialized. appreciate your recommendation. tnx
They look pretty similar in terms of travel and Geo numbers. I think it’s going to come down to price and the relationship you have for the local bike shop. If you have a local specialized dealer, it’s always great to have that relationship. For what it’s worth, the SWAT box on the Specialized is phenomenal.
I watched a review recently that talked about the new generation of 34 forks and according to this tester they are much much stiffer than previous generations. No idea if this is true or not
I typically don’t upgrade rear shocks unless they blow out. Happened to my son but has not happened to me. I would just stick with what came on the bike…my opinion.
I have a 2019 Stumpjumper alloy looking to upgrade, something more efficient dont care about flying down hill or huge jumps. So been thinking about new Stumpjumper or Ibis Ripley. Or might even go XC like a RKT 9 RDO or would that be to uncomfortable for a person with bad back?
I’ve done that on other bikes but not this one. But I think you can as long as the reservoir points down. You may have an issue with the water bottle hitting it so keep that in mind.
@@ClintGibbs Thanks man, I always rock a water backpack instead of a bottle.. I'm super excited about purchasing this bike after watching your videos on it. Seems like the perfect bike for me at this time. One more question if you don't mind... Are you seeing any wear on the carbon parts and would you suggest RideWrap in any locations on the bike? Thanks again and ride well....
@@fathertime209 I always put Frame protection tape on the frame and cranks. Anywhere I could get cable or foot rub. This video may help th-cam.com/video/CPi6_blLqhw/w-d-xo.html
@@ClintGibbs One more quick question. I noticed that this is an all white frame and I couldn't find expert model in an all white version. Only the Evo pro for 2023? The pro has a much deeper suspension but I guess I can stiffen it up with adjustments? I do weigh 250 lbs. Thanks again...
@@fathertime209 mine was the expert model. I think it may have been a 2022. For 2024 there is no Evo model anymore. They are all the same travel which is 150 in the front and about 145 in the back.
I have encountered black bears on several occasions but they are not very aggressive. If you are riding in their country I would recommend a Timberbell: th-cam.com/video/rhZsItQAHnQ/w-d-xo.html I do ride alone a lot. If it’s something other than my local Trails I will definitely let someone know where I am going and when I should return
@@ClintGibbsafter having my Stumpy Expert for almost a year now I agree with your entire review. I’ve switched to New Bontrager tires which are way more appropriate than the Butcher/Purg combo and the only other thing I’d change is 170mm crank.
I really wanted to get a Specialized StumpJumper but I realized I would have to spend at least $6k to get one without low end components. No point in spending $3k to $4k on a bike with low end SRAM components and suspension. So I went trek instead that has all XT components for less money ($4.3k) I would expect GX level components for that price range. It's a shame that such a good frame is treated so bad. StumpJumper expert is on sale now and if you can get one they are 4.6k (Normal price 6.2k). Wasn't at the time I bought my bike or else I would have went specialized instead. This was the bike I wanted but couldn't afford at the time.
Yea i hear ya. Congratulation on the Trek! I got myself the Stumpjumper Comp Carbon for 3250 US (3150 CHF) because of this sale right now. Everything SLX witch to me is perfectly fine and like having GX on it and I have some cash left to upgrade my Helmet and a lighter wheel-set in the near future. What do you think?
Props to Clint for using the proper word “DAMPED”!! I hear way too many people say “Dampened”- it’s not wet!
I am retired and live on Michigan's west coast with a mile long public beach on lake Michigan across the street and last year discovered a MTB park 20 miles inland so a year ago I decided to start riding again. I still have my original MTB, a 1993 Gary Fisher Marlin and decided to upgrade to a Polygon Xtrada 7 1x12 hardtail Large frame 29er based on the online bike size calculator. The bike fits me well at 5'9" tall. I then used 5'8 1/2" in the calculator which suggested a Medium frame with 27.5" wheels so I order another Xtrada 7 in that size.The goal was to ride both bikes for a year to compare before buying a full suspension in 2023. After lots of research with the help of you and other channels on youtube regarding wheel and frame sizing, trail vs down country, ideal suspension travel, etc... I took advantage of two black Friday specials. The Polygon Siskiu T8 Medium frame 27.5" wheels Fox rhythm 34 150 mm fox float 140 mm with 65 d HTA and short 425 chainstays It's my rowdy black diamond playbike. For the flowy XC trails I'm riding a Canyon Neuron AL 5 with Rockshocks F/R 140/130 travel, 29" wheels, 67 d HTA it is a great climbing down country bike that is comfortable on those epic all day rides. So I would like to Thank you for all the work you do that helped me find a pair of bikes that I will be enjoying for many years to come.
I am a subscriber and will be watching !
Thanks,
David
Love this bike. Switched to a t7 butcher up front and t5 ground control rear with some reserve wheels and it flies.
Now the question, did you throw your cross country wheels on it? Like your spur testing. It would be really interesting were it lands! How close it would get.
Thanks Clint, I have been waiting for this video and your final review of the Stumpy. I appreciate how much thought you put into this review.
Agree with everything Clint. Love mine as well. I also appreciate that Specialized spent effort on keeping the frame weight down.
Fantastic feedback, I'm also trying to decide between trail and all-mountain, so 130/140 vs 150/160. My old bike is an 29" hardtail, so just need the right alternative for long weekends with fun. There is so much you need to keep track of these days to get the right bike for you.
Get the 130/140 trust me
150mm travel the best
I live in the Swiss Alps and I'm 40 and MTB, Snowboard and Ski my entire life. I own a 185/ 160, 150/ 150 and a 120/120.
Now, there is nothing a 150/150 can't handle, but the truth is with modern bikes you are simply over-biked most of the time.
I've tested different bikes over the last 12 months to figure exactly out how much travel I really need For my new Bike and I came to the conclusion that a 140/130 Bike with a modern slack enduro frame (Stumpjumper comp/expert) is truly the sweat spot for a do it all Bike. Even the new Scott spark with 130/120 is Insanely capable.
Go with 140/130 and you are fine for 95% of the time, and every descend and climb is a fun experience. You can always get a second set of tyres for more gravel/street stuff.
@@IIISentorIII❤ Thanks for your advise
I absolutely love my 2022 carbon stumpy. Travel-wise it's just as comfortable and capable on techy decents as my 150mm rear travel Remedy was, but it's also a bike that begs to go fast and gives you back everything you put into it. By a wide margin it's the best bike I've ever ridden.
I currently have a Remedy and am looking at a stumpy for my next bike as I want less travel and 29’ as my local trails don’t require a 150/160. I am still keen to do local and regional enduro races though. Have you take the stumpy on rowdier trails yet?
Thanks for the long term review of this bike, my dream bike. Was thinking about buying the base model (Alloy), but many people I've seen complain about the bike's brakes and derailleur.
I'll concur on this bike being super quiet! My buddies are always freaked out because they don't realize I'm right behind them.
Great review Clint! I just picked up the Evo expert yesterday (same color) and my first ride left me smiling 😁
Thanks Clint for the thorough review. Looked at a stumpy pro today at my LBS, going back tomorrow to purchase it. With the sale it is over $2000 off at the moment, seems like a pretty good deal to me.
If only they offered a different color! That mint color just isn’t it
@@s4aragonI agree, don’t like that colour either. I’m looking at the brown in the expert. It’s not my favourite colour but I’d prefer that over the white that Clinton has here.
Great review! Picking mine up today. Got a comp - amazing price sale right now.
I pick up this exact bike in two days!!! Pumped!
Well, what do you think?
@@WillyBFree6 love it, absolutely a ton of fun. I thought I would dislike the 29 in tires when climbing and in tight rock gardens, but they are amazing, especially when bombing downhill or trying to get over obstacles on the trail.
As an owner of a 21 stumpy expert like this I have to say you nailed it on all points. The tires are really a catch 22- speed or hella grip? My only complaints for mine are shifting has never worked 100% for me and (this was fixed with the 22 model) the horrible 3-pawl engagement on the rear. 1000% agreed on the rear shock as well. Even on harder trails I can feel it heats up and gives that classic flat tire effect. It would be interesting to test it with a x2 version of the DPS.
Ride on sir keep up the great content!
Excellent show and review. I have the 2021 version and love it as well. A year or so ago I send out the herd and (regrettably)sold my XC bike so now I wondering how this bike would do on a 12 hour XC race with proper XC wheels and tires
i wanted to buy one last spring but were totally out of stock on a Stumpjumper models. Ended up buying a YT Izzo. Izzo has similar geo and has been awesome so far.
Bikes like the pivot Switchblade may convince you that it's not just travel but also geo that changes playfulness. The smuggler 140/130 is long and slack and it handles much less playfully than the more modest geo of the pivot Switchblade which is 160/142. I demoed a ton of bikes rhe other day at outerbike and it was eye opening as to how travel, geo and kinematics/shock all come together to make the total package.
Stumpy's should come with a left side bottle cage since it's got that asymmetric frame design
Great wrap up and review. That would be the perfect bike for Coldwater in Alabama. More than happy to give a tour of CW some time. Keep Shred'n!!
That’s a really good review man! I just got my first full suspension bike and it is the stump jumper comp alloy very similar to the one, it’s just aluminum, but I tell you what the bike feels amazing, I just love it!
Appreciate your perspective as always, Clint. We ride similar terrain and prefer similar bikes, so now I'm on the lookout for one of these!
I've been thinking that maybe an ideal all-around bike might be something with a light-weight frame, 120mm efficient climbing/pedaling XC-ish rear suspension, 160mm Fox 36 fork, and fairly modern progressive geo. What I'm going for is a capable descender that is still a light-weight efficient climber. When I look at the Stumpjumper, I can't help but think that the bike would be much better with a 150mm Fox 36 fork or even a 160mm Fox 36 fork if the geometry was right.
I recently bought a 150/160mm travel carbon Stumpjumper EVO Expert which I have been pushing toward the Downcountry side. I've put on 2.6 front and 2.4 rear Maxxis Rekon tires, adjusted the geo to the shorter wheel base, adjust the rear suspension to maximize climbing, and have been slowing adding lighter parts when possible. What I'm shooting for is a light-weight bike that rolls fast and climbs well while still being very capable when descending or covering rough ground. I'm lookin for the love child of a Downcountry bike and an Enduro bike. Can the Stumpjumper EVO be a better Downcountry bike? I think so.
This is a great bike and platform if you are not trying to do true DH. With a few extra parts, you can have a more aggresive down country bike or a mini enduro. I have a 34 at 140mm and a 36 at 150mm which I switch out depending on the terrain. As well, two wheels sets, one with XC and one with Enduro tires gives me all the options I need for my area.
Oh, and also have a float x and dps that I switch out depending on what I am doing. Float X is a little more compliant and stays more consistent in long descent days.
Great review, Clint!
The Butcher is definitely pretty slow-rolling, but it is Specialized's more All-Mountain (borderline enduro) tire. For faster rolling but still pretty good grip (especially if it's dry), is an Eliminator (F)/Purgatory (R) combo (though it's probably not Rekon-level rolling speed).
I just got this bike and agree with you. The T9 Butcher, while it's certainly grippy, feels a bit sluggish. I was thinking of putting the Purgatory up front and a Ground Control T5 on the back to speed things up.
The carbon regular stumpjumper is the most beautiful bike ever. I would still have an alloy evo, but based on looks... not even a fair fight
I ski double/triple blacks, trees, bumps, etc. I am nowhere near that level in Mtn biking and hear about wanting to get more of a bike than you need. I was looking at a Trek or Yeti full suspension, but at the end of the day, I picked up a Trek Marlin 7 hard tail for just under a grand. It’s an awesome spec for that money and climbs like the wind due to a huge sprocket in the rear (1x11). The geometry is very aggressive, plus the 29” wheels are phenomenal. The geometry of this Stump Jumper looks less aggressive. Yes/no? Thanks. Great review of a great bike!
Great review Clint.. This bike would be great at Coldwater trail near Anniston Alabama.
Great bike Clint!
Great reviews on the stumpjumer Clint, they really helped me in my decision to purchase a stumpjumper. Ive had my bike for about 3 weeks now and have just tried out the high Postion on the flip chip, did you find that it feel like it felt that you where sit quite high.
I would believe you would be happy with the specialized epic evo , and you would be happy with your new PR with the epic evo ? Plus 2 water , I really want a long travel bike but , I have been riding MTB for 30 years and it’s just confusing, the bikes are so slack and they are getting better at climbing but , 30lbs for a mountain bike is nuts 30 years ago even 20 lbs was normal for a race bike ! Kudos
Circling back to this video I don't think the new SJ15 is gonna beat this bike for any XC style trail riding. I am gonna miss those flex stays too, so responsive.
I bought this bike and its amazing but after buying it I started riding a lot more and pushing my limits. Now I think I maybe should have bought EVO
I have the EVO I bought about a year ago and had it custom painted. love the bike, I am maybe a little over biked on it but I am ok with that. if I could change 1 thing it would be the brakes, I just prefer Shimano. The GX shifters are fine but I prefer shimano shift levers as well. Now if I could just find some grips that didnt have that sticky coating on them, I would be set.
Wow, where did you get it custom painted if you don't mind me asking. And if there are some pictures i also would be interested :)
Thanks for this detailed review. I have an EVO and ride in Tampa 99% of the time. Too much bike and I'm thinking about flipping over to a regular Stumpy. Just curious, I know you're a Transition guy, any chance you are doing a review on the Smuggler coming up? It's another bike that's caught my eye and would be curious to hear your opinion.
Very possible. I may purchase one this summer or try to get a demo sent to me. The numbers are very similar to the Stumpjumper. For Mainly riding in Florida the Spur is perfect. The smuggler would be a bit too much bike on most Florida Trails.
Great vid, would love to have a Stumpy. Were those the Poverty Creek trails at Pandapas (Pandapas Loop Challenging)?
The challenge was very steep climbs over rock gardens.
sorry for being late to the party. But what an amazing review did you make here!! I just bought one myself. I just wanna know where you got the bell from? I really like the concept!
th-cam.com/video/rhZsItQAHnQ/w-d-xo.htmlsi=v8_FbaeaPqV416q1
Tanks for review!
How big are you and what size do you ride on the stumpjumper!
Thanks Chris
173cm. Medium.
@clint Gibbs - Clint you need to step your game up and come up north to Jersey rock gardens & NY MTN ranges. You’d love it .
Ironically, I lived in Allamuchy before there was even a mountain bike trail. That’s where I learned to ski, in the Poconos.
@@ClintGibbs a great place to ride for sure
Great trail bike!!! Period.
You don't like the Giant Trance anymore ?
I had a direct connection with giant but they stopped communicating with me. Their loss I guess.
How would this bike be if you put a Dissector 2.4 in front and a Rekon 2.4 in the back like the Spur comes with?
Did a test ride on both evo and non-evo stumpy experts. Love the evo for feel and reach. There’s also expert RS with rochox lyrik suspension. Would love feedback on the rockshox version of the ST evo ? Thanks.
Great content Clint! What do you think about the Cannondale scalpel SE? Greatings from Sweden😊
It’s been a very long time since I’ve ridden a scalpel but when I did it was a very agile bike with quick acceleration. Cannondale makes very good quality bikes. I’m not a fan of the lefty fork so I would use a regular Fox fork.
How does it compare to the Revel Rascal?
Hey Clint, Thank you for the long-term Review.
I recently managed to order myself the S4 Stumpjumper Comp Carbon in White/Black for 3250 US (3150 CHF) here in Switzerland from a local dealer.
I usually ride Scott Bikes (Genius) with 150, 150 travel and after riding it hard for years It needed a replacement.
Based on your recommendation and my experience with the Scott Spark (A bike similar to the Spur) I ordered the Dirtskirt. I'm still on the fence how and what parts i want to protect on the frame let alone with what. I know i don't want to wrap the entire Bike, just some parts.
Any recommendation would be appreciated.
It will take another couple of weeks until my Stumpy arrives, perfect for Spring!
Keep up the god work and cheers from Switzerland
Use frame saver tape under the down tube and any place your heel could rub or a cable could rub. That’s what I do and it works fine. Cheers!
@@ClintGibbs Appreciate the feedback Clint!
If you have ever ridden an Optic, how do they compare? Torn between the two. Thnx
I love my Sworks Stumpjumper but too stiff downhill.
Does it make a difference to change the 34 to a 36 Fox factory fork and/or change the rear Shock from a Fox dps to the Fox float X?
If so, what would work best for this bike,
Fox or Rockshox and would you match brands with the fork and shock?
Thank you so much,
I really need help with this.
I am 210 without gear.
Thanks
Great review as usual! I, too, live in Florida and was deciding between the stumpy and epic evo. After test riding both I ultimately went with the epic evo as I felt the evo was a bit more playful handling, particularly on the slower technical trails like we have in Santos. Either way you can't go wrong.
For riding mainly in Florida the epic Evo is the best choice. You did well! I have the stumpjumper for riding in the mountains. The spur is for most Florida trails where I’m not racing or training for XC.
Is the new bike coming going to be the new smuggler?!
Awesome bike but to expensiv for my taste, and the GX model has NX on it..
That would be the logical answer but I actually no. The bike I’m getting is not available for another month or two but stay tuned!
Hey Clint.
Great video again, thanks a lot....
I am thinking about buying Stumpjumper Evo frame and put on it coil shock.
The main problem for me is to choose right size. I am between 5′ 9″ and 5′ 10″ and not sure what to choose S3 or S4. Specialized size calculator chose for me S4, but I am afraid that it will be a little big for me(reach is 470 mm.). Also I can't find these sizes to try it.
Can you share your opinion about Stupmy size and handling?
Thanks in advance
I’m 5’8” and the S3 fit me really well. Typically the shorter stem you run the better the bike feels so you don’t want to put yourself in a situation where you get an S3 but need to put on a longer stamp to increase the reach. Does your shop have an S3 or S4 in stock that you could ride around the parking lot?
I want one looking at the alloy
Late to the party but ..... How does the Stumpy compare to the Spur?
More sluggish and heavy. Spur climbs better and better on XC trails. Stumpjumper descends better
How does this compare to the spur?
Not as quick as the spur on cross country trails and not as quick as a climber but it would be my choice for rougher descents.
would you recommend this compared to the neuron CF SL 2023? I ride mostly tamed trails, not too rowdy/rooty/rocky, prefer also something that is a good climber. I was about to pull the trigger on the canyon but saw this review and sales going by specialized. appreciate your recommendation. tnx
They look pretty similar in terms of travel and Geo numbers. I think it’s going to come down to price and the relationship you have for the local bike shop. If you have a local specialized dealer, it’s always great to have that relationship. For what it’s worth, the SWAT box on the Specialized is phenomenal.
I watched a review recently that talked about the new generation of 34 forks and according to this tester they are much much stiffer than previous generations. No idea if this is true or not
Did you try the next size up, the s4 by any chance before deciding on the s3? (For a longer more stable feel?)
I did not.
Worth upgrading rear shock from the carbon comp or does it do its job well?
I typically don’t upgrade rear shocks unless they blow out. Happened to my son but has not happened to me. I would just stick with what came on the bike…my opinion.
I have a 2019 Stumpjumper alloy looking to upgrade, something more efficient dont care about flying down hill or huge jumps. So been thinking about new Stumpjumper or Ibis Ripley. Or might even go XC like a RKT 9 RDO or would that be to uncomfortable for a person with bad back?
Go with a bike that’s 120mm front and rear travel
Could you swap out the rear shock for a piggyback reservoir Fox shock? I love going for long rides and I'm 250 lbs... Thanks!
I’ve done that on other bikes but not this one. But I think you can as long as the reservoir points down. You may have an issue with the water bottle hitting it so keep that in mind.
@@ClintGibbs Thanks man, I always rock a water backpack instead of a bottle.. I'm super excited about purchasing this bike after watching your videos on it. Seems like the perfect bike for me at this time. One more question if you don't mind... Are you seeing any wear on the carbon parts and would you suggest RideWrap in any locations on the bike? Thanks again and ride well....
@@fathertime209 I always put Frame protection tape on the frame and cranks. Anywhere I could get cable or foot rub. This video may help
th-cam.com/video/CPi6_blLqhw/w-d-xo.html
@@ClintGibbs One more quick question. I noticed that this is an all white frame and I couldn't find expert model in an all white version. Only the Evo pro for 2023? The pro has a much deeper suspension but I guess I can stiffen it up with adjustments? I do weigh 250 lbs. Thanks again...
@@fathertime209 mine was the expert model. I think it may have been a 2022. For 2024 there is no Evo model anymore. They are all the same travel which is 150 in the front and about 145 in the back.
Clint - what are your thoughts on mtb’ing alone ? - have you had any bear encounters?
I have encountered black bears on several occasions but they are not very aggressive. If you are riding in their country I would recommend a Timberbell:
th-cam.com/video/rhZsItQAHnQ/w-d-xo.html
I do ride alone a lot. If it’s something other than my local Trails I will definitely let someone know where I am going and when I should return
Compared to the Ripley AF?
The ibis is a better all around bike.
But how was it on your bank account?
So is this guy still in your quiver?
Just got replaced. The new steed will be revealed soon. The Stumpy was a great bike though.
@@ClintGibbsafter having my Stumpy Expert for almost a year now I agree with your entire review. I’ve switched to New Bontrager tires which are way more appropriate than the Butcher/Purg combo and the only other thing I’d change is 170mm crank.
You nailed it. It's way better to be underbiked.
Unless you have a 100mm hardtail like me LOL. Selling it and getting this one
it really depends where you're riding. you don't want to be way underbiked, but just a little. @@anon7684
Is this the expert ?
Yes
I think my next bike will be in that 140 range as well. Enduro rigs are full on mini Downhill sleds now, too slack and long for my local trails.
stumpjumper ❤
Unless you're at a bike park, being slightly under biked is far more fun.
I agree. And it can be safer because you’re not carrying loads of speed over gnarly terrain.
I really wanted to get a Specialized StumpJumper but I realized I would have to spend at least $6k to get one without low end components. No point in spending $3k to $4k on a bike with low end SRAM components and suspension. So I went trek instead that has all XT components for less money ($4.3k) I would expect GX level components for that price range. It's a shame that such a good frame is treated so bad.
StumpJumper expert is on sale now and if you can get one they are 4.6k (Normal price 6.2k). Wasn't at the time I bought my bike or else I would have went specialized instead. This was the bike I wanted but couldn't afford at the time.
Yea i hear ya. Congratulation on the Trek!
I got myself the Stumpjumper Comp Carbon for 3250 US (3150 CHF) because of this sale right now.
Everything SLX witch to me is perfectly fine and like having GX on it and I have some cash left to upgrade my Helmet and a lighter wheel-set in the near future.
What do you think?