Specialized Stumpjumper: the icon of modern mountain biking
In this Article
Published on 10 October 2024
If you are passionate about cycling, you have probably heard of the Specialized Stumpjumper or Stumpy for short, one of the most iconic mountain bikes. Having evolved several times since 2016, it remains versatile: trail, cross-country, enduro, this do-it-all bike from the Specialized range appeals to any mountain biker, whether beginner or experienced. Pleasant to ride, easy to handle and comfortable, the Stumpjumper stands out from many of its contemporaries. From long cross-country rides to the toughest enduro stages, this fully suspended MTB has everything to please. Focus on the flagship model of Specialized's MTB range.
A Brief History of the Stumpjumper
If the Stumpjumper deserves its own article today, it’s because it revolutionised the world of mountain biking. The first mass-produced mountain bike in the world, the Stumpjumper quickly became the flagship affordable model (750 dollars in 1981 🙂) that matched the geometry and performance of custom MTBs.
The Stumpjumper has obviously changed a lot over the years, and since 2016, it has undergone three major changes.
2016 to 2018
- The bike automatically adjusts to about 25% sag.
- This generation of Stumpjumper is not compatible with shocks other than Specialized.
- This is also the first generation to use Specialized’s SWAT door (available only on carbon models), an integrated storage system in the down tube to carry spare tubes, tools, food, etc.
- The Stumpjumper Comp Carbon and Expert frames are built with a FACT 9m carbon front triangle and an M5 aluminium rear triangle. The Stumpjumper Pro and S-Works are fully carbon, with FACT 11m carbon front and rear triangles.
2019 to 2020
- The model is redesigned from the ground up. A carbon arm extends around the right side of the rear shock, adding support and lateral stiffness for better tracking on rough terrain.
- The geometry has been modified to be slightly longer and more relaxed than the previous generation.
- The suspension kinematics have been made more progressive to reduce bottoming out on hard hits.
- This generation of Stumpjumper becomes compatible with most aftermarket shocks.
- All carbon frames, from Comp to S-Works, use a fully carbon FACT 11m front and rear triangle.
- Specialized also introduced the Stumpjumper ST and the downhill-oriented Stumpjumper EVO model.
2021 to 2024
- In 2021, the geometry and suspension change radically. The American brand abandons the FSR suspension system in favour of a lighter and stiffer monopivot + linkage architecture inspired by cross-country. This model, with modernised geometry and 130 mm rear and 140 mm front travel, positions itself as a versatile trail bike.
- Sizes are available from S1 to S6 (~XS to XL), offering cyclists a wide range of options and allowing everyone to have a similar riding quality regardless of size.
- All models are now equipped with reduced offset forks for better stability.
- The carbon Stumpjumper features an entirely new suspension design focused on weight reduction and improved efficiency.
- The low-travel Stumpjumper ST is no longer available. Cyclists looking for a similar low-travel trail bike must turn to the Epic EVO.
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Features of the All-New Stumpjumper 15
This fully suspended MTB is the lightweight trail bike (only 13.6 kg for the S-Works 15) and medium travel from the brand. Built on 29-inch wheels, the Stumpjumper is equipped with a 140 mm travel fork and 130 mm of rear travel. This places it in a similar range to the Trek Fuel EX, Norco Optic, Giant Trance 29 and Canyon Spectral 125.
In order to offer a high-performance bike, the Stumpjumper benefits from ideal geometry, a long reach for better stability on descents, and a 65° head angle. Specialized engineers not only modified the bike's appearance, but they also worked on the rear suspension to introduce an entirely new shock, the Float GENIE. Developed in close collaboration with suspension giant FOX, it aims to increase the total air volume of the shock by using two positive air chambers that are distinct yet connected to provide suspension that is both soft and progressive. In the first 70% of its stroke, it is softer, akin to a coil spring, absorbing small bumps. In the remaining 30%, it becomes firmer, preventing bottoming out on hard impacts, like a pneumatic spring. This allows for both comfort and performance on varied terrain.
The neutral kinematics allow the rear wheel to absorb rocky ledges during technical climbs while maintaining grip and control on tougher descents. The rear of the Stumpjumper is not as plush as the Trek Fuel EX or Giant Trance X, and it doesn’t have the same float as the higher travel Stumpjumper EVO, but it remains very effective on the trail.
The Different Variants of This Fully Suspended MTB
The 15th generation of the Specialized Stumpjumper, a successful blend of the Stumpjumper and the Evo, is now available in nine variants: three with aluminium frames and six with carbon frames.
The range starts from €3,250 for the Stumpjumper 15 Alloy up to €14,500 for the S-Works model. You can also purchase the S-Works frame alone for €4,500 if the stock builds are not to your taste. Depending on the models, this new generation is equipped with FOX shocks and the SRAM X0 Eagle Transmission electronic drivetrain that relies on a robust UDH direct-mount rear derailleur.
Stumpjumper 15 Alloy
Until recently, the range started with the Comp, an entry-level model with a carbon frame. It’s not exactly an economical bike, but given that it has practically the same frame as the S-Works model, it represents very good value for money.
Now, it’s the new Stumpjumper 15 in aluminium that has the most attractive price.
It is equipped with less expensive entry-level components, making it accessible for a beginner mountain biker on a tight budget (alloy cockpit, new Shimano Deore 12-speed drivetrain and a RockShox Psylo fork) with a simple X Fusion shock.
Comp
The Stumpjumper Comp models from the 2024 and 2025 range are available with either carbon or aluminium frames (Stumpjumper Comp Alloy). The Stumpjumper Comp has a slightly steeper head tube angle and a shorter reach, making it more manoeuvrable and versatile for a variety of trail conditions.
Without pedals, the Specialized Stumpjumper Comp in carbon weighs 13.8 kg and features a complete SRAM NX groupset, capable of handling anything from rocky climbs to fast descents.
Fox Coil Alloy
The price of the Fox Coil Alloy made entirely of aluminium is set at €6,200. This price is justified by its premium DHX coil shock from FOX, TRP brakes, once again top-notch from Tektro, and the SLX groupset, which offers precise gear shifting and is ideal for all terrains.
Expert
Mountain bike of the year 2021, the X01 transmission is the standout feature of this bike with precise gear changes, and you can actually feel a noticeable difference with the GX groupset when you ride.
Ohlins Coil
The Stumpjumper 15 Öhlins model is equipped with a fork featuring 160 mm of travel, while other models have 150 mm for sizes S2 to S6 and 140 mm for size S1. However, Specialized also offers a version of the Stumpjumper fully equipped with Öhlins suspension. On this specific model, the shock is a coil spring, different from other versions that use GENIE air technology for more progressive impact management. It is sensitive and supple in the travel, with numerous adjustment options and well-thought-out damping settings. In terms of suspension, the Öhlins RXF38 three-chamber fork allows for quick and easy adjustments, providing good support during braking and effective use over large bumps. However, the suspension remains quite firm initially compared to the Fox 38, which can affect traction, comfort, and predictability in certain situations.
Pro
Clearly, the Stumpjumper Pro is fast. The amount of forward momentum you get with a single pedal stroke will astonish many. With its weight of exactly 14 kg and its premium XO transmission groupset, you feel propelled forward with minimal effort...or almost.
S-Works
The S-Works is the most high-end model. It’s a gem equipped with premium components such as the new Traverse SL II wheels. According to Specialized, they would offer a 15% increase in strength at the front and 25% at the rear, while providing better lateral tolerance.
The mountain bike is also constructed from high-quality carbon fibre in the frame. As a result, S-Works frames are generally 200 to 300 grams lighter.
In addition to the Fox suspension, this Specialized Stumpjumper 15 S-Works is equipped with a complete SRAM XX AXS T-Type transmission.
The Specialized Stumpjumper continues to stay at the forefront of innovation, positioning itself as a true reference for mountain bike enthusiasts. With its cutting-edge components, it offers the perfect blend of lightness, responsiveness, and performance on all types of terrains. Ranging from 13.6 kg to 16.6 kg depending on the models, it promises exceptional performance while remaining comfortable and manoeuvrable. Don't wait any longer to try it out and discover for yourself what it means to ride a legendary Stumpjumper.
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