Mixed wheel sizes have moved from fringe experiment to legitimate setup, and the Stumpjumper EVO LTD arrives factory-configured for the approach. Pairing a 29-inch front wheel with a 27.5-inch rear creates a geometry that rolls over obstacles with the traction of a full 29er while allowing the rear end to break loose more readily through corners and off features. The result is a trail bike that sits somewhere between the standard Stumpjumper and a dedicated enduro rig in terms of capability and character. Where the standard Stumpjumper focuses on all-day efficiency with 130mm of travel, the EVO platform pushes into rowdier territory with slack geometry and increased travel that rewards aggressive riding.

The FACT 11m carbon frame provides 150mm of rear travel through a horst-link suspension design that Specialized refined using data from their Enduro development program. Kinematic tuning focused on improved anti-squat characteristics to reduce pedal bob without sacrificing small-bump sensitivity. The leverage curve progression helps prevent harsh bottom-outs on bigger hits while maintaining a supple initial stroke. The RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate shock handles damping duties with its RC2T damper and hydraulic bottom-out control, offering independent high and low-speed compression adjustment. Up front, a RockShox Lyrik Ultimate with Charger 3 RC2 damper and ButterCups provides 160mm of travel on S2-S6 frames. The ButterCups bumpers isolate high-frequency vibration from the bars, reducing hand fatigue on rough descents.

Geometry adjustability defines the EVO platform. Six settings allow independent adjustment of head tube angle by two degrees and bottom bracket height by 10mm. This flexibility lets riders tune handling for specific terrain or personal preference without compromising the baseline geometry. Running the steep and high setting creates a more responsive, easier-climbing setup, while the slack and low configuration drops the front end and centers weight for stability at speed. The S-Sizing system moves away from traditional sizing conventions, instead scaling reach and front-center measurements across six frame options while maintaining relatively consistent head tube lengths and standover heights. This approach allows riders to choose frame size based on preferred handling characteristics rather than being locked into a single option based on height.... Read More