2022 Specialized Stumpjumper EVO Expert

Simon Kohler

The Specialized Stumpjumper EVO Elite Alloy enters our 2022 trail bike group test as the only alloy full-susser.

Ben Haworth Amanda Wishart

The Specialized Stumpjumper Evo Alloy gets all the cool things that the carbon Stumpjumper has had for a few seasons now.

Nelson

Specialized has taken all of the performance, adjustability and features of its carbon Stumpjumper EVO and offered them in a more affordable M5 aluminum package for 2022.

Alan Muldoon

As winner of our 2022 Trail Bike of the Year test, the Stumpy Evo Comp has more than proved its worth. So what, if anything, does the more expensive Expert version bring? Obviously, the specification is improved; SRAM GX replaced by XO1, the Fox 36 Rhythm fork upgraded to Performance Elite and matched to a Fox Float X shock of the same standard. It even gets a 180mm OneUp V2 dropper. All worthy improvements then, but do they justify the extra £1,550? Well of course they do. What we’re trying to get at is if they are worth it in terms of outright performance – does it still rank among the best mountain bikes on the market? Need to know: 29in wheels front and rear, but a MX link is also available for £70 Six different geometry configurations as standard, 12 with the MX link SWAT. The original and still the best internal frame storage, bar none. A 160mm Fox 36 Performance Elite fork boosts gives 10mm more travel up front The full Fact 11m carbon construction is a thing of beauty. Frame Before we answer that question, let’s take a closer look at the one thing that has not changed, namely the frame. The full Fact 11m carbon construction is a thing of beauty. Yes, the asymmetric sidearm frame design splits option, but there is no disputing its benefits – the reinforcing bar allows Specialized to tailor the specific level of stiffness precisely for each frame size. Of which there are six, S1 to S6 where S-sizing introduces shorter seat tube across the range making it much easier for riders looking for increased stability to upsize. And as if that weren’t enough choice, the latest Stumpy Evo has more geometry adjustment than ever before. By simply dropping in the asymmetric upper headset cup that’s supplied with the bike you can add or subtract 1.25º to the head angle. At the opposite end of the frame flip-chips integrated into the chainstay pivots give you 7mm of BB height adjustment while simultaneously changing the chainstay length by 5mm and the head angle by 0.5º. A rich heritage: the 40 year history of the Specialized Stumpjumper All in there are six unique combinations, and if you want to see how each adjustment impacts other metrics like reach or seat angle, Specialized has a neat online geometry finder that works everything out for you. Now let’s take a look at the storage. Specialized’s second generation SWAT offers a bigger opening the frame, where the neoprene tool wrap has been replaced by what looks like a waterproof pencil case. It has also added a 22oz bladder to make full use of the kink in the downtube just in front of the BB. Genius! Also having the SWAT door positioned towards the bottom of the downtube makes a lot of sense as anything that slides down as you ride is easily retrieved. Suspension The rear suspension on the Stumpy Evo offers enough support and pedals …Continue reading »

Drew Rohde

At The Loam Wolf, we’d rather have a bike that rides well than a bad bike made from carbon fiber. Read a full review on the Specialized Stumpjumper Evo Alloy!