Cross-country racing has spent years pulling in two directions at once—courses getting more technical while the clock still rewards raw pedaling efficiency above all else. The 2024 S-Works Epic 8 from Specialized addresses this tension through a complete rethinking of what a 120mm platform can deliver, combining FACT 12m carbon construction with suspension kinematics that Specialized claims absorb 12% more bump force than the previous generation while simultaneously reducing pedal-induced bob by 20%. Those numbers translate to a bike that maintains traction and comfort through rough terrain without stealing watts on the climb.

The geometry reflects the demands of modern XC courses. A 66.4-degree head tube angle and 435mm chainstays position the rider for technical descending while the 76-degree seat tube angle keeps weight forward during seated efforts. Progressive leverage rates in the suspension work alongside custom-valved RockShox SIDLuxe Ultimate Flight Attendant shock tuning developed specifically for this chassis. The Flight Attendant system uses sensors and SRAM AXS wireless technology to monitor terrain and rider input in real time, adjusting compression damping automatically so the suspension stays active when you need traction and firms up when you need a pedaling platform.

Specialized's Ride Dynamics team approached the damping as part of a holistic system rather than an aftermarket addition. The shock valving, leverage curve, and chassis stiffness were developed together, which allows the bike to respond predictably across the suspension's travel range. The RockShox SID Ultimate Flight Attendant fork up front shares the same Ride Dynamics tuning philosophy with 120mm of travel and a 44mm offset.... Read More