Just announced, the new 2025 Specialized Chisel has a revolutionary alloy frame constructed with DAluisio Smartweld, a patented technology that Specialized claims results in the lightest alloy full-suspension XC bike available. Find all the details here.The post The All-New 2025 Specialized Chisel has the Lightest Alloy Frame Available appeared first on BIKEPACKING.com.

Specialized is coming in hot with another premium alloy bike, the new Chisel FS, which takes the Chisel into the full suspension dimension. Specialized claims its the lightest full suspension alloy mountain bike in the world.(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)Hefty claims aside, the Specialized Chisel FS line is bringing the performance aluminum full suspension back. The line doesnt dumb down the geometry and leans into its World Cup-winning sibling, the Epic 8. It uses the same DAluisio Smartweld technology of the Chisel hardtail and the new Crux DSW, shedding some weight and gaining style.(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)Specialized Chisel FS What is it?The Specialized Chisel FS takes notes from the newly released Epic 8: advanced suspension kinematics, Specialized Ride Dynamics tuned suspension, and progressive geometry honed. The result is a noble riding machine that can slice and dice trails with the carbon crew.(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)Specialized engineered a flex stay rear end for added suspension performance while eliminating the extra weight and maintenance associated with pivots required in a traditional design. Compounding that with the DAluisio Smartweld frame construction gives you a light frame with less pressure on your wallet.(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)Frame Construction Specialized Chisel FSThe new Chisel FS employs DAluisio Smartweld technology. For those unfamiliar with the construction of the traditional alloy frame, it joins tubes with welds at the highest stress point. DAluisio Smartweld delivers the highest strength at the lowest weight using hydroformed tube junctions. This construction allows Specialized to move the weld away from the area of the highest stress and create a valley for the weld bead to lay in.(Photos: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)One-Piece Seat Tube/Bottom Bracket:The first of its kind, Chisel shaves extra material and weight with a one-piece hydroformed seat tube. The design resembles the Crux, Allez, and other DSW road frames. The unique build layup integrates the seat tube pivot, central pivot, and BB shell.(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)Notable SpecsCockpit: 29mm rise barsFork: 120mm travel RockShox forkShock: 110mm of rear wheel travel (metric 19040)Dropper: Dropper posts on all modelsBrakes: SRAM Level T BrakesFront Tire: Ground Control 2.35Rear Tire: Fast Trak 2.35Specialized Chisel FS Geometry: Modern XC and DowncountryImage: Specialized Specialized Chisel FS ModelsImage: Specialized Chisel Shimano:Notable spec: The Specialized Chisel FS Shimano has a Shimano Deore, M6100 12-speed groupset. The suspension is a RockShoxs Recon 120mm fork featuring their Motion Control Damper. The rear shock is Ride Dynamics Tuned X-Fusion. The dropper is by TranzX, with a remote lever for hassle-free operation.Image: Specialized Specialized Chisel:Notable specs: SRAM NX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain. The suspension is RockShoxs Recon 120mm fork, featuring their Motion Control Damper. Ride Dynamics Tuned X-Fusion rear shock. TranzX dropper postImage: Specialized Specialized Chisel Comp:Notable spec: RockShoxs SID 120mm fork, featuring their Rush Damper, provides suspension. Ride Dynamics Tuned RockShox Deluxe Select+ rear shockTranzX dropper post Shimano SLX 12-speed drivetrain.Specialized Chisel FS Pricing and AvailabilitySpecialized Chisel Shimano Comp: $3,400, 2,700, 2,700Specialized Chisel Shimano: $2,600, 2,000, 2,600Specialized Chisel: $2,600, 2,000, 2,600Chisle FS Frameset:$2,000, 1,400, 1,700(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)First Impressions Specialized Chisel Shimano CompIve been a fan of the newest Specialized Chisel since it came out. I like having an aluminum frame with race geometry and an affordable build. This alloy race formula is working for Specialized. So far, theyve taken a bike from every category and introduced an alloy alternative with nearly the same geo as the top offering.(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)The Chisel FS borrows a lot from the newest Epic. Its geometry is aggressive but playful, the suspension is modern 120mm, and its light for an alloy full-suspension bike.Little bits make the bike stand out, like cable routing, the little cover at the bottom bracket to keep out crud, and the beefy tubes.(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)Ride Impressions My rides on the Chisel FS have been mainly on rolling PA single track with roots, rock, and punchy climbs. The frame is notably stiff, and the suspension is smooth over the bumps and rocks. The pedaling efficiency is excellent over long rolling sections of less technical terrain.(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)The bike would be much lighter with a better fork and wheels. Thats why there is a frame-only option.That said, our review ride weighs 28 lbs on the dot in a size medium not bad for aluminum.(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)As for all-day riding and various types of trails, the Chisel does the job well. I want a remote lockout option or a hole in the frame to accommodate one, but that may not be the crowd for this bike.The flip-switch lockout isnt challenging, but it takes some getting used to if youre an XC geek like myself. The 120mm of travel is nicely expressed with the Chisel frames setup, and you forget youre on an alloy bike reasonably quickly into the ride.(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)Components The component setup is spot on, IMO. The Shimano SLX groupset combines solid shifting with a slight weight reduction. The brakes are the same Shimano model I use on my hardtail Chisel and perform great.(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)If I were looking to shed weight quickly (and not break the bank) on the Chisel FS, I would opt for lighter wheels (like the Hunt Race alloy) and a carbon bar. I plan to see how much weight we can take off and the best bang for the buck.(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)(Photo: Jordan Villella/Bikerumor.com)Dont get me wrong, though. The Chisel FS Shimano Comp build is right in the sweet spot of being raceable and sendablewhere many riders will find a perfect fit.My time on the Chisel FS has been minimal, but I have big plans, so stay tuned for a few cool projects with this unique frame.www.specialized.comThe post Specialized Chisel FS: Not An Entry-Level Full Suspension Alloy Mountain Bike appeared first on Bikerumor.

The wardens targeted (and allegedly misguided) approach towards cyclists has resulted in in 62 fines this year and discouraged people from riding their bikes but the council now says staff should simply warn locals if theyre cycling in no-cycle zones

The lightest model weighs just 12.87kg, could the Chisel tempt people away from more expensive carbon options?Specialized Chisel FSSpecialized has launched a full-suspension version of its aluminium XC hardtail, the Chisel. Its been modelled closely on its carbon Continue reading

Our friend Josh of ATB Rides recently teamed up with framebuilder Chris Schmidt of Good Grief to restore a damaged Surly Rat Ride to its former glory with a couple of fresh steel tubes, and the result is a stunning embrace of imperfection. Take a closer look at the one-of-a-kind Surly x Good Grief Mountain Klunker here...The post A New Life for an Old Surly Rat Ride appeared first on BIKEPACKING.com.

So often one of the main protagonists of Tour de France season, the INEOS Grenadiers look set for another year of being dark horses and background players in 2024. After a mixed Tour de Suisse, the team can still hope of some Tour de France success however."Egan Bernal is improving with every race...

The Ouachita Vistas Overnighter showcases numerous scenic outlooks over the beautiful and rugged Ouachita Mountains. The route begins and ends at Lake Sylvia State Park, which has a small parking lot for hikers, runners, and cyclists. The forest roads west of Lake Sylvia are a popular destination for local off-road cyclists. The only resupply on []The post Ouachita Vistas Overnighter appeared first on BIKEPACKING.com.

The Exie USA was the culmination of a big step for Ibis Bicycles. Their first bike to be built in the United States and in their state-of-the-art solar-powered facility in Northern California, the Exie was an exercise in building a bike from carbon, and building it better. Naturally, that included making it as light as possible, which meant that Exies were sold without paint since their surface finish was so good that it didnt require it. Paint also typically includes fillers, primers, and extensive finishing work that adds to the weight and cost of the build. However, Ibis is back with another limited edition version of their Exie USA, this time with a full coat of paint. Initially crafted for the elite UCI World Cup Cross Country Race Team, Team 31, the painted bikes represent another big step for Ibis. Given the carbon finish quality straight from the mold, Ibis claims that they were able to offer a painted frame without increasing the amount of finishing work or adding weight. (All Images/Ibis)The limited edition Team 31 Exie USA models are finished with an automotive-grade paint known for its durability and lightweight properties, and finished with Team 31 decals. Ibis didnt provide the weight of the frame, but if it didnt add any weight to the current Exie USA, it should be around 2026g, or 4.47lbs (size medium, w/ shock). These are only available through Ibis dealers and will sell for $4,499.99 for the frame. ibis.comThe post Limited Edition Team 31 Ibis Exie USA Lands with Lightweight Mercury Silver Finish appeared first on Bikerumor.

UPDATED June 18, 2024BY Shanny HillINTrans-Europa no comments The Trans-Europa Cycling Tour: A Crazy European DiagonalWhen, after much research, I ended up finding TDA, I was delighted I had to, as a European, make this Crazy European DiagonalI discovered countries that I did not know (Baltic States, Poland, Hungary, etc.), others of which I deepened my knowledge (Italy, Spain). A great playground for cyclists with magnificent landscapes, maximum safety for cyclists, dream cuisine In addition, I only met super friendly cyclists. The whole group was really fantastic and I also created links with certain people who I know will push us to repeatother trips are planned! Also, thanks to the Tour Leader and his Team. Stphane from FranceStphane as he pedaled across Europe last summerAs our 2024 European tours got underway, I started looking ahead to the summer of 2025 and, in particular, at a very special tour on our calendar. The Trans-Europa is by far the longest supported cycling tour offered in Europe. At nearly 6,000 km, it is a bit of a monster. It started out in 2010 as a much shorter 3,400 km tour from St. Petersburg to Venice called the Amber Route. I was the Tour Leader for that one and it was fantastic. I remember the forests of the Baltics, the beauty of the Tatras mountains in Poland and Slovakia, having a tasty donut at the top of a gruelling climb in Slovenia, and experiencing Italian cuisine in Italy for the first time. I remember leading an eager group of riders exploring a continent by bike. It all ended with a big celebration in Venice. What a treat! How lucky we all were to have had that experience.>>VIDEO: Click here to watch the video preview of the route found at the end of this blog.The TDA team, however, is a restless bunch. With our somewhat warped outlook on things, the tour was somehow not long enough and so we doubled the length and renamed it the Trans-Europa an epic and truly singular European cycling adventure (The Amber Route is now the name of one section of this much longer trip).It has been a while since I have been a part of that tour, so I decided to reach out to Stphane, one of the 2023 participants, and Gergo, our longtime European Tour Leader, to tell me a bit about their impressions of the route.Stphane Remembers the Cycling and the FriendshipsWhen I asked Stphane to describe what his experience cycling the Trans-Europa was like, he created a new term Id never before heard the Crazy European Diagonal. Crazy yes, in the sense that its crazy long, crazy ambitious and perhaps just a bit crazy to consider participating in. Diagonal yes indeed! Starting in Europes Northeast, in the Estonian capital Tallinn, the participants pedal southwest across 11 (!) European countries ending at the iconic Rock of Gibraltar.But Stphane didnt stop there:Straightness, flatness and new beautiful roads in the Three Baltic States, the visit to Poland, a country so important to our European history, the rural side of Slovakia, peaceful, quiet and restful, discovering Budapest, a lively, bustling city full of energy, the high-percentage days in the climbs of Slovenia and Italy, the Italian and French elegance, and also the excellent and delicious cuisine in these two countries. The traces of the past still present in Italy, in particular in Venice and Genoa, the small roads along the Mediterranean coast (with or without flamingoes), the charming little villages of Provence, nestled in the hills, for a refreshing drink under the plane trees, the kindness and generosity of the Spanish people and southern Spain with Olive groves as far as the eye can see.He also remembers some of the many special moments had on the tour:Silent breakfasts and much noisier aperitifs. Discussions, laughter, exchanges (despite my horrible French accent) and Coke Stop or Coffee with friends. Virtual border crossings (no more customs) still allow photos to be taken. The difficult and long climb to Bobbio in the scorching heat, as well as, after, the excellent dinner in the evening. The climb to Nice, with a wonderful view of Monaco in the bottom. A dinner in Barcelona with my [fellow cyclist and] New Zealand Rugby Player, watching the first Match of the World Championship between New Zealand and France. The healthy vision of the Red Van, synonymous with delicious and varied meals [at the roadside lunch]. Inflating the tires in the morning, looking for the white pump (my favorite).Gergo Shares Some AdviceSome of the highlights Gergo recalls were the delicious pierogis, haluski and goulash found in central Europe. He recalls the ride along Lake Balaton in Hungary, then some hillier days in Slovenia, cruising along the Po River and climbing up into the Apennines after Venice.There is the Cte dAzur in Provence with the lingering smell of fresh herbs in the air, before you return to the coast along the French Riviera. The double rest day in the Barcelona and El Toro, the final section of the tour that has some hidden gems as well. Gergo says its more than just a ride on the coast. Hidden mountain villages, good days of cycling with decent amount of climbs and rewarding downhills with the view of Sierra Nevada.So it may be a Crazy European Diagonal, but as Gergo says Do not worry about a thing. There is enough time to get accustomed to the bike touring lifestyle, while every day will bring you something new and unique.Please enjoy this section-by-section overview and consider reaching out with your questions. Spaces are open if you want to join for a week or tackle the tour in its entirety.Bike the BalticThe adventure begins in Tallinn with riders heading south through lush forests and along the Baltic coastline before stopping in historic Riga and its beautiful waterfront promenade. A few more days into Vilnius, Lithuania and the end of the section.Amber RouteCyclists depart Vilnius' historic centre and pedal through rural landscapes, stopping in the cities of Warsaw and Koice before climbing into the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains as they make their way to Budapest and the end of the section.Alps & AdriaticFrom Budapest the riders cycle along beautiful Lake Balaton and enter hilly Slovenia. The route takes them past Roman ruins and into Italy where they eventually trade their bikes for a boat, entering Venice on the Canale Grande.Along the RivieraLeaving Venice, the group returns to the mainland, cycling through small Italian towns and where they face challenging winding roads as they enjoy the views of the Mediterranean and the resort villages below them along the famed Riviera.Provence / Costa BravaContinuing along the coastline spinning between olive groves, the riders reach the sundrenched Costa Brava with its renowned beaches and rocky cliffs as they head pedal into vibrant Barcelona.El ToroFrom Barcelona the riders head into the rolling hills of southern Spain, dotted with olive and orange trees. They cycle through historic Granada and soon the Rock of Gibraltar appears to mark the end of the tour.A special thanks to videographer Ethan Weil who travelled with the cyclists in 2023 and created this video series for us.RELATEDTOURTrans-EuropaJoin us on this spectacular 2 1/2 month cycling adventure across Europe. The route passes through eleven countries, starting in Tallinn and finishing... Related Posts:Leave a Comment for "The Trans-Europa Cycling Tour: A Crazy European Diagonal" Cancel reply

We're happy to see the Builders for Builders Program return for 2024. This year's fundraising effort will support the Sierra Butte Trail Stewardship's (SBTS) plan to connect 15 mountain towns via a 564-mile multi-use singletrack trail. Learn how to make a donation and find details on the bikes you could take home here...The post Builders for Builders Program is Back for 2024 appeared first on BIKEPACKING.com.