|
|
Specialized SX Trail 1 - Preview
by derkaderka
Posted: Jun 8, 2009
With the warmer weather we have been getting lately, it seems the riding season may have finally arrived! What better way to start a new season, than with a new ride! Specialized has worked hard to improve their SX Trail line-up, and this is what they have come up with.
So the question is, how does one take an already accomplished bike, and make it better? Well for starters, why not make it lighter? Stiffer rear end? And why not throw some all new 2009 parts onto it? If this doesn't get your heart going, you may want to see a doctor. Click here to get all the details on the new generation of SX Trail bikes.
Read on for more information...
So the question is, how does one take an already accomplished bike, and make it better? Well for starters, why not make it lighter? Stiffer rear end? And why not throw some all new 2009 parts onto it? If this doesn't get your heart going, you may want to see a doctor. Click here to get all the details on the new generation of SX Trail bikes.
Read on for more information...
Arguably the most important part of any bike, the frame received an extreme makeover from the engineers at Specialized. Beginning with manipulated M5 tubes, a frame with a low center of gravity, sporting more curves than Oprah was crafted in the Specialized lab. The 2009 SX Trail has undergone many changes over previous versions. The new version still uses O.R.E.(Optimized Radial Engineering) tubing, however the profile of these tubes has changed drastically. On the previous generations, much of the tubing had a square or triangular profile. On the 2009 version, there is still some square shapes, but the corners have been rounded heavily to give the bike a softer look that blends well with the curves. New to Specialized bikes, a tapered headtube design was used on the SX Trail. With a 1.5" lower cup, and 1 1/8" top cup, the design takes the stiffness of a 1.5" steerer without adding much additional weight. We first saw this with Trek, but it has become a staple for some frames, and with such big name suspension manufacturers like Fox and RockShox supplying tapered steer tube forks, this technology looks like it is here to stay.
The linkage and suspension system also received a lot of attention during the re-design. Still using FSR technology, a new two piece linkage design replaces the old system, with many new advantages. A big plus for us "wet coast" riders, is the absence of a DU bushing. Specialized designed a linkage for the SX Trail 1 that moved the traditional pivot at the rear of the shock, into the linkage itself. Cartridge bearings now serve the purpose of the DU bushing, which will cut down on the need to regularly maintain the pivots. A new butting process was developed, and it was put to good use on the chain stays and seat stays. Contrary to 2008's 2 piece chain and seat stay, 2009 now features a 1 piece butted seat and chain stays. Essentially this new process cleans up the overall look of the chain and seat stays, while also increasing structural strength.
With the new linkage, the shock was moved forward in the frame, and an uninterrupted seat tube was added. The new seat tube allows plenty of adjustment, and a telescoping post is no longer needed to get some extra height for climbing. With the shock now lower in the frame, the top tube was given more slope, and more stand over height was achieved, without sacrificing bottom bracket clearance.
Not only was the re-design a chance to introduce new ideas, it gave an opportunity to tweak the geometry of the bike. On the 2008 and earlier models, there was two different forward mounts for the rear shock. These mounts allowed the headtube angle to be set at either 66.5° or 67.5°. On the 2009 frames, there is only one position, and the headtube angle is fixed at 66°. Although the top tube and chainstays were shortened for 2009, the wheelbase has actually been lengthened slightly. This will maintain the cornering abilities of earlier models, while gaining stability through the longer wheelbase.
One thing I wish Specialized had changed was the cable routing. Yes, the exterior of the bike looks clean, but when it comes to shuttle trucks, cables routed on the down tube seems like a recipe for disaster. It's too easy to kink, bend, or even close up a brake or mech line on the way up, and that could make for a pretty sketchy ride down. For 2009, the SX Trail line up will only consist of two complete bikes. The SX Trail 1 is built up with a slightly more consumer friendly parts kit, to keep the price down, while the SX Trail 2 comes decked out and ready to rock. The XL size has been dropped from the line-up for 2009, and the other sizes have been adjusted slightly to allow for this. The SX Trail is also available as a frame only option.
As you can tell by the component list Specialized has spec'd the SX Trail 1 with a fair amount of in house parts. This has a couple benefits to it. Specialized can offer a cheaper overall bike price, while still offering the same frame benefits. Also, Specialized gets some R&D done on their components, and possibly launch a component line in the future. All the Specialized branded components have a clean, well designed look to them, and match the bike well.
I have ran into some hickups with my test on this bike already. First ride I managed to do some damage to the front wheel, including blowing some spokes out, and bending the hoop really badly. Also, I managed to crack the Gamut Shift Guide's bash ring, but it did what it was supposed to and saved my rings from getting destroyed. I have since replaced the front wheel with one of my own front wheels, and adjusted the guide so it wouldn't rub.
Specialized has provided me with the chance to get down and dirty with this bike for the 2009 season, so look for the full review including photos, videos, and even more info coming soon, so stay tuned to Pinkbike.com.
-derkaderka.pinkbike.com
 |  |  |
The linkage and suspension system also received a lot of attention during the re-design. Still using FSR technology, a new two piece linkage design replaces the old system, with many new advantages. A big plus for us "wet coast" riders, is the absence of a DU bushing. Specialized designed a linkage for the SX Trail 1 that moved the traditional pivot at the rear of the shock, into the linkage itself. Cartridge bearings now serve the purpose of the DU bushing, which will cut down on the need to regularly maintain the pivots. A new butting process was developed, and it was put to good use on the chain stays and seat stays. Contrary to 2008's 2 piece chain and seat stay, 2009 now features a 1 piece butted seat and chain stays. Essentially this new process cleans up the overall look of the chain and seat stays, while also increasing structural strength.
No More DU Bushing!
 |  |
With the new linkage, the shock was moved forward in the frame, and an uninterrupted seat tube was added. The new seat tube allows plenty of adjustment, and a telescoping post is no longer needed to get some extra height for climbing. With the shock now lower in the frame, the top tube was given more slope, and more stand over height was achieved, without sacrificing bottom bracket clearance.
Plenty of room for adjustments
Not only was the re-design a chance to introduce new ideas, it gave an opportunity to tweak the geometry of the bike. On the 2008 and earlier models, there was two different forward mounts for the rear shock. These mounts allowed the headtube angle to be set at either 66.5° or 67.5°. On the 2009 frames, there is only one position, and the headtube angle is fixed at 66°. Although the top tube and chainstays were shortened for 2009, the wheelbase has actually been lengthened slightly. This will maintain the cornering abilities of earlier models, while gaining stability through the longer wheelbase.
 09 Forward Shock Mount |  07 Forward Shock Mount |
One thing I wish Specialized had changed was the cable routing. Yes, the exterior of the bike looks clean, but when it comes to shuttle trucks, cables routed on the down tube seems like a recipe for disaster. It's too easy to kink, bend, or even close up a brake or mech line on the way up, and that could make for a pretty sketchy ride down. For 2009, the SX Trail line up will only consist of two complete bikes. The SX Trail 1 is built up with a slightly more consumer friendly parts kit, to keep the price down, while the SX Trail 2 comes decked out and ready to rock. The XL size has been dropped from the line-up for 2009, and the other sizes have been adjusted slightly to allow for this. The SX Trail is also available as a frame only option.
 SX Trail 1 |  SX Trail 2 |  SX Trail Frame |
| Frame and Size | Specialized SX Trail 1 Frame •21.7" Top Tube |
| Rear Shock | Fox DHX 4.0 •Adjustable Rebound and Propedal •550lb Spring |
| Fork | RockShox Domain 318 •160mm of travel •1 1/8" to 1.5" Tapered Alloy Steerer Tube |
| Headset | 1-1/8" to 1.5" Threadless •Alloy Cups •Cartridge bearings |
| Crankarms | Truvativ Stylo •170mm Length |
| Chainring | 24T, 36T, Gamut Bashguard |
| Bottom Bracket | Truvativ Stylo •Outboard bearings |
| Pedals | Specialized Lo-Pro alloy |
| Chain | SRAM PC-971, 9-speed w/Power Link |
| Cassette | Shimano HG61, 9-speed, 11-34t |
| Rear Derailleur | SRAM X-9, 9-speed, mid cage |
| Shifter Pods | SRAM X-5, trigger, 9-speed |
| Handlebar | Specialized Enduro mid rise bar •660mm wide |
| Stem | Specialized Aggro stem •35mm reach •OS 31.8mm |
| Grips | Specialized thin lock on grips •Alloy bar ends |
| Brakes | Custom Avid Elixir R •Reach adjustment •203mm Front rotor, 185mm Rear rotor |
| Front Wheel | Custom DT Swiss F550 •Specialized Hi-Lo disc Hub |
| Rear Wheel | Custom DT Swiss F550 •Specialized bolt on Hub •Hollow 10mm Cr-Mo axle |
| Tires | Specialized Clutch SX 26x2.3" •Soft dual compound |
| Saddle | Specialized Enduro •8mm Cr-Mo rails |
| Seatpost | 6061 alloy, Black |
| Extras | Gamut Shift Chainguide, Molded plastic chainstay protector |
As you can tell by the component list Specialized has spec'd the SX Trail 1 with a fair amount of in house parts. This has a couple benefits to it. Specialized can offer a cheaper overall bike price, while still offering the same frame benefits. Also, Specialized gets some R&D done on their components, and possibly launch a component line in the future. All the Specialized branded components have a clean, well designed look to them, and match the bike well.
| |  |  |  |
I have ran into some hickups with my test on this bike already. First ride I managed to do some damage to the front wheel, including blowing some spokes out, and bending the hoop really badly. Also, I managed to crack the Gamut Shift Guide's bash ring, but it did what it was supposed to and saved my rings from getting destroyed. I have since replaced the front wheel with one of my own front wheels, and adjusted the guide so it wouldn't rub.
Happy Trails!
Specialized has provided me with the chance to get down and dirty with this bike for the 2009 season, so look for the full review including photos, videos, and even more info coming soon, so stay tuned to Pinkbike.com.
-derkaderka.pinkbike.com
122 Comments
- + 10
nz-urban
(Jun 24, 2009 at 0:15)
why must they persist with that rediculous head tube ???!!!!!
thats what my friend keeps saying to me..
i think its so they can still use the 1 1/8 inch steerer tube but have the stiffness of a 1.5inch headtube.
i think its so they can still use the 1 1/8 inch steerer tube but have the stiffness of a 1.5inch headtube.
its not a bad idea having a tapered head tube, but yeh i must agree with you guess!! unfortunatelt for us it looks likes its going to stay
if it catches on, it could hopefully replace 1.5" and 1 1/8" just leaving us with one variant as good as both = much better
It allows for more weld area in the head tube which at the same time increases rigidity. You can get reducers for the lower cup to still run a 1 1/8th fork. I personally really like the idea and too welcome a new standard.
That is quite slack for a bike with the name trail in it. Should be a good descender. The frame looks really good to me too, very strong and stiff. Like a lighter Demo.
Nice bike.
That is quite slack for a bike with the name trail in it. Should be a good descender. The frame looks really good to me too, very strong and stiff. Like a lighter Demo.
Nice bike.
A "new" standard is only good if it is a "standard", and it improves something. There are way to many "new standards" in biking. Now it's just stupid and frustrating, you can't swap parts from one bike to another. I mean 3 BB sizes, 3 front axle sizes, 4 rear spacing sizes and now 3 headtube sizes,it's just too much.
the tappered head tube is copyrighted, so no one will be able to us it, thus, it cannot become a standard.
the geo looks better for tricks now and more flickable like a great freeride/dh/slopestyle now that is a bike!
I agree. 1.5 at the top and bottom gives rigidity through the WHOLE front end. This is introducing a 'weak link' that will increase flex. Incidentally, I run 31.8mm handlebars as well on both of my bikes for the very same reason. It does not significantly increase the weight of anything.
I thought the whole point of a larger tube was the fact that you could dramatically increase the rigidity without dramatically increasing the weight. The narrower the tube, the more metal you need to make it as stiff.
The tapered headtube just seems counterproductive. I smell empty marketing ploy. And I don't buy it.
I thought the whole point of a larger tube was the fact that you could dramatically increase the rigidity without dramatically increasing the weight. The narrower the tube, the more metal you need to make it as stiff.
The tapered headtube just seems counterproductive. I smell empty marketing ploy. And I don't buy it.
new for specialized? i'm pretty sure the enduro has had it for a little bit, and came out with it on their pre-production one before or at the same time as trek. but correct me if i'm wrong, i don't mind as long as it's right lol
To be honest, Giant invented the 1.5 bottom 1.125 top headtube. Glory DH 2005. Why does everyone think Trek came up with this? Gasps, maybe Giant welds all of these frames?
The switching of parts is a huge pain, agreed. That seems to go hand in hand with the bike market. It used to be 1" or 1 1/8th steer tubes, and the different seat tubes etc etc. It's always been a pain.
You don't really need a 1.5" HT at the top cause all the stress is at the bottom cup, hence the benefits of a 1.5" with half the weight of a full 1.5" setup.
You don't really need a 1.5" HT at the top cause all the stress is at the bottom cup, hence the benefits of a 1.5" with half the weight of a full 1.5" setup.
So I'm still missing something.
The steertube on the shock is supposed to be stronger for the weight because it is fatter. So doesn't that mean that you are getting a *lighter* product because it's more efficient?
(actually I know the answer to that)
So do we have any real substantial weight savings for making a complicated tapered setup? All I see here is increased production costs and a flexier top end at the handlebars.
I mean I'm just picturing the difference in my head between a straight 1.5 tube and a tapered tube and I just don't see all that much weight saving in the frame design. It's still going to need beefy welds. I see even less weight saving in the steer tube and for stems, well, I don't get that much either.
It doesn't surprise me one little bit that Giant invented this. They have been opposed to 1.5 for so long. Now they finally found a way to add a much more expensive variant without compromising to making something simple that is strong.
Their policy has been to eliminate simple and cheap bicycle designs since 2002 or thereabouts. See the AC line of bikes.
The steertube on the shock is supposed to be stronger for the weight because it is fatter. So doesn't that mean that you are getting a *lighter* product because it's more efficient?
(actually I know the answer to that)
So do we have any real substantial weight savings for making a complicated tapered setup? All I see here is increased production costs and a flexier top end at the handlebars.
I mean I'm just picturing the difference in my head between a straight 1.5 tube and a tapered tube and I just don't see all that much weight saving in the frame design. It's still going to need beefy welds. I see even less weight saving in the steer tube and for stems, well, I don't get that much either.
It doesn't surprise me one little bit that Giant invented this. They have been opposed to 1.5 for so long. Now they finally found a way to add a much more expensive variant without compromising to making something simple that is strong.
Their policy has been to eliminate simple and cheap bicycle designs since 2002 or thereabouts. See the AC line of bikes.
i have to admit, that is one ugly bike. the old sx trail was so nice and now they wrecked it with all these curves!
so true. the sx trail was one of the most popular, and respected bikes in the world. if its not broke, dont fix it. the new ones now have the cheesy "bighit" look to them. i would buy an 08 over the 09 in a second. pretty sure bearcloth is still riding the 08 aswell...
Specialized: Innovate Or Die. I don't think they care that the old one was good, they only want to make everything that they do better every single year, and stay ahead of all the competition. People had the same reservations about the New Demo replacing the old one in 2007, and look where that ended up going. As for Berrecloth riding last year's model, you must be joking.
It sounds like the new frame is going to be even more awesome than the old; wish I could trade mine in for the new one... that's what Spesh do, they take awesome things that they've done and move them up another level.
It sounds like the new frame is going to be even more awesome than the old; wish I could trade mine in for the new one... that's what Spesh do, they take awesome things that they've done and move them up another level.
iv ridden both, and i personally liked the 08s better. and i am a huge specialized fan. i own a demo, and its the best bike iv owned. but, i am really not too happy with the now sx trail and the big hits. i like how the older ones felt and rode. the new sx is not a bad bike by any standard, but i think that it was a mistake to change on of the best bikes on the planet. i was saving up for one untill they changed it. no im going to go with a nomad as a allmountain light freeride bike.
nah, berrecloth is riding the new one now. he's on the cover of decline this month as thats what hes slaying it on. i agree though, last years were way better looking . wayyyy better looking.
alright. last i heard, was that he didnt want to give his old one up. i can understand why though. that bike has been part of his career for many years.
Specialized: Let's make it stylish and pretend its cool or death by Trek and Scott - I'm sorry but for me that's the issue... Santa Cruz is innovative and they frames dont look like they tried to do something really strange cuz for me new SX trail is made just to look freaky, furthermore it helps the Big-Hit crap to sell...
IDK, I wouldn't kick the SX out of bed for eatn crackers. The move from arthritic-prone bushings, to smooth-industrial cartridge bearings, is a big improvement right there. Heck, if they don't already, they should come up with a mini cartridge system for shock bushings too. I
The 09 SX trail feel's more like a demo ('07 or newer, i have little experience with the older models) than the older SX trail frame. The new SX trail has a lower center of gravity and the suspension just has a better feel to it, it feels similar to the demo IMO. I currently own an 06 SX Trail, owned an 07 Demo 7, and have demoed an 09 SX Trail on a few occasions.
I agree - there are obvious technical advantages to this frame, but it is just the ugliest thing! Also, 66° does seem pretty slack for a trail bike. At this point, it's just starting to get closer to the Demo. The old SX line was so more attractive in almost every way. I think it's great that they're using a new bearing design and all of this stuff, but they could have done things like machining the head tube and using different tubing contours.
The ugly frames tend to grow on me after they've been around for a bit. I definitely found it more attractive in person. And if that isn't enough, put it next to a newer norco and the curves won't seem so drastic!
Well the Norco issue. Specialized surely employs some product designers, so they make sure that whatever builds up in the heads of engineers and marketing department is not just a working set of tubes and pivots. Even if I think that the new SX's is a overkill in terms of looks, i still believe its a quite decent treatment of an ugly form. Stand out Graphics surely improve the general impression as well. Now Norco should definitely spend some more money on their art department cuz their bikes have a form that is just cheap. An ambitious approach with no clue how to put it into a form.
[Reply]
This is a sick bike (I am in love with it), but I cannot figure out in my head a way to pim it down under 35pounds for a lighter setup, beautiful though it is. I'm looking foward to 2010: let's see what they come up with at the Spesh Workshop for the next seasson.
I have a custom built 09 Lrg(biggest and heaviest frame size)and it's under 35. With Ti Spring I hope to get it into the mid to high 33s...
Build:
09 Crossmax SX rims
Stylo OCT cranks
2010 Van RC2 w/tapered steer
Twenty6 Stem
Twenty6 Ti spindle pedals
Easton Monkleylite DH bar
X9 Shifters, Rear D, SLX Front D
Elixir R (200 f, 180 r)
Build:
09 Crossmax SX rims
Stylo OCT cranks
2010 Van RC2 w/tapered steer
Twenty6 Stem
Twenty6 Ti spindle pedals
Easton Monkleylite DH bar
X9 Shifters, Rear D, SLX Front D
Elixir R (200 f, 180 r)
U sort of forgot to write about the most important weight weenie part: what are the tires on UR build?
mine is at 33 and 6 oz for same size (L), i had a spec list somewhere. but i'll get pics up, and all that jazz sometime.
BTW my Slayer ride only weighs in at 33 on the scale, but it was actually lighter on stock setup (31ish).
My Nomad is 35 but with single ply 2,35" highrollers and 500g rims (hubs are heavy NS shit). With 2006 deemax and 2ply HRs + which I use for park/freeride it comes at 37 pounds. So what tyres DO U have on Ur setup mrpark
Nice article!
Can't wait to read the full review.
I have some questions though.
What do you mean by this: "Contrary to 2008's 2 piece chain and seat stay, 2009 now features a 1 piece butted seat and chain stays." ?
The old one's stays are pretty much the same as the new ones. There are 2 stay welded together with a stiffening part (I don't know the exact term for that frame part). I don't see much difference.
Also I'm curious, if the new SX is as plush as the old one with this shorter shock. It would be nice if you could give a riding comparison between the two models, as I guess that there are a lot of current SX owners who are thinking to change for the new one, but are hesitating, because there are not to many (not biased) test with the fresh SX.
Thanks.
Can't wait to read the full review.
I have some questions though.
What do you mean by this: "Contrary to 2008's 2 piece chain and seat stay, 2009 now features a 1 piece butted seat and chain stays." ?
The old one's stays are pretty much the same as the new ones. There are 2 stay welded together with a stiffening part (I don't know the exact term for that frame part). I don't see much difference.
Also I'm curious, if the new SX is as plush as the old one with this shorter shock. It would be nice if you could give a riding comparison between the two models, as I guess that there are a lot of current SX owners who are thinking to change for the new one, but are hesitating, because there are not to many (not biased) test with the fresh SX.
Thanks.
The stays are still welded to the yoke. It's the pivot points on the chain stays and seat satys that are no longer welded and drawn in one piece. They are drawn in one piece. Look at the pivot next to the rear mech or the one on where the seatstay meets up with the swing arm - one solid tube (no welds).
yea the dt swis rimbs are crap id put some mtx or dubletrack on it otherwise a sweet bike love the new deisng
I Think this bike is a mistake -the previous one was fine and only reason for change was to attract more people with something NEW and make mo money -not to mention about a plan to make all Spec frames look the same- all curvy and easy to recognise from the distance-"I don't know what bike it is but it must be a specialized-look at it's shape" 
I'm not saying that this bike is bad -tapered tead tube or integrated front mech is a cool idea - but it feels stiffer and the frame is a little bit hevier than the old model. All this changes(plus "better" standover ) made this bike more bike park-slopestyle friendly but have taken a bit of its versatility.Size M is also shorter so be carefull when buying.Personally -I don't like it
I'm not saying that this bike is bad -tapered tead tube or integrated front mech is a cool idea - but it feels stiffer and the frame is a little bit hevier than the old model. All this changes(plus "better" standover ) made this bike more bike park-slopestyle friendly but have taken a bit of its versatility.Size M is also shorter so be carefull when buying.Personally -I don't like it
Specialized is a TNC - they are in it ultimatly for money and nothing else, so how can attracting more people with cheap gimmicks be a mistake on their part? They want people to buy their frames, and they want people to recognise their frames. Theres no mistake here as far as they are concerned.
What was not covered in the article because it is a "at first sight" article is how it rides...it rides MUCH better than the old SXT, it takes a square edge hit better due to a smarter working suspension design. This new way of suspension movement in the rear is highly noticeable over the old and IMO better than the current Demo (which I also own) Think of this SXT as a lighter (YES I said lighter) weight version of a Demo. Bunkey...have you worked for Spec.? do you know for a fact they do all their dealings, R and D, marketing, support, idealogy JUST FOR MONEY...yeah your real smart, that's exactly how Spec works, they don't care about anything else but money. Stop talking out your arse.
Stop talking out of my arse? Do you live in the real world? If a company wants to survive, it cannot do so on pretences of 'We only do this because we love our sport and riders so much'. If that were the case they would be dishing out free bikes. Im not knocking specialized here, and im not saying they dont put resorces into R&D or come out with sweet frames - they clearly do - but they roll bikes off the production line in the thousands, and at the end of the day their goal is to make a profit. Argue with me all you like, but the fact that they are surviving as such a big company is all the proof I need.
Then I say props to Specialized for being smart at the business they love. Keep the sick products coming.
Eat or be eaten.....
Eat or be eaten.....
the point is: U wanna make money no probs - just dont stuff me with this bullshit of yours lower standover, better suspension work. We have the coolest bike on the market -> I have no probs with that kind of statement; we have the best performing bike, lower standover, lower center of gravity -> im so deep in this bullshit im haveing problems with breathing.
and yes im pretty damn sure this is just a smaller version of Demo, instead of SX trail it should be called Demo 6.
lower standover, lower centre of gravity, revised suspension etc. thats not bullshit, thats just stating the differences over the previous model?
Right. Lower center of gravity and lower standover are two very specific points that relate directly to the ride.
The lower center of gravity generally affects the BB and is based largely on how the rider's body interacts with the bike. This also directly impacts the stability of the bike both at speed on a straight and in non-straight lines.
Standover height affects simple ride feel (ever ride a bike that was constantly up in your crotch?) as well as giving a definitive measurement for riders who may wish for a long wheelbase, but not a tall bike. It also appeals directly to anyone who does jumps and might want to do certain types of tricks.
If it's a measurement, chances are it actually means something. Not necessarily what the manufacturer claims, but in this case, I don't think they are claiming much beyond the fact that these measurements have changed.
Take a deep breath. Is that air you're breathing? I hope so.
The lower center of gravity generally affects the BB and is based largely on how the rider's body interacts with the bike. This also directly impacts the stability of the bike both at speed on a straight and in non-straight lines.
Standover height affects simple ride feel (ever ride a bike that was constantly up in your crotch?) as well as giving a definitive measurement for riders who may wish for a long wheelbase, but not a tall bike. It also appeals directly to anyone who does jumps and might want to do certain types of tricks.
If it's a measurement, chances are it actually means something. Not necessarily what the manufacturer claims, but in this case, I don't think they are claiming much beyond the fact that these measurements have changed.
Take a deep breath. Is that air you're breathing? I hope so.
well, the only reason that this bike has a lower centre of gravity than the previous one is the bent tubes... so as I said 300 times U might as well do straight ones, take the equivalent of mass addded by bending and weld it under the bottom bracket - oh how clever... regarding the lower standover - old SX trail as well as 90% of bikes in this class have fully sufficient standover height. Even a 16" XC hardtail has a sufficient standover for 6" guy. Yes guy, 99% of ppl complainig about standover are called women... yes tricks - no footer can can?! thats the reason for this design... inthat manner U can just bend the bike down even more to accomplish somethign like a trails bike - oh how low CG and standover weeee!!! yes i breath air, a pretty clean one 
haha, you are so full of shit its quite funny. More stand over is generally better on a bike of this type. I CANNOT NFC my XC bike - tricks are something people buy bikes for.
mhm... yes I am full of this new SX trail crap, released by a company that hires only good freeriders and in any other discipline of cycling they suck. Wohooo Sam Hill yes - isn't he working on a new bike, so finaly they can get something professional?
I didn't like the bike at the begining, But now it look's vrey nice, and i think that for freeride it's one of the best.
Looks great and like a fun ride. But the linkage looks like it will have a very high leverage ratio.
yeah, i"ve heard worse, and it sounds like it progressess nicely, but still higher then I think it should be.
Well - saying that this bike is a mistake I wanted to say all that You said can not agree moreI ride Big S frame myself but that was love from first sight - the company policy and strategy is not my favourite.
can not agree moreI ride Big S frame myself but that was love from first sight - the company policy and strategy is not my favourite.
that's the issue with all big companies: giant, trek, scott, however it is the spec that f*** around most. They are big and they release bikes just as if they were pretending to bem a small rider-owned company. I dont think there's much innovation in Spec, same as with Trek and Scott screwing around with their Carbon fiber designs - sorry big guys but Santa Cruz bikes just shot U in Ur balls with Blur Carbon
With the new SXT Specialized has innovated a couple of things such as the front derailleur is attached to the chains stay, and if you take a look at the new linkage there is the way they have the shock mounted to it and the eccentric bolt on the upper frame pivot (to keep things clean without pinch bolts). Also what about the brain shock that they worked with fox a few years ago?
As for Trek and Scott, I can't say much for either but Trek did the 1.125/1.5 head tube and the active brake pivot, and Scott the double barrel rear shock. I would say that they have a bit of innovation an all counts.
As for Trek and Scott, I can't say much for either but Trek did the 1.125/1.5 head tube and the active brake pivot, and Scott the double barrel rear shock. I would say that they have a bit of innovation an all counts.
Waki....what makes you think that the Blur Carbon is so superior to anything out there?
It's a carbon fiber frame...What's the big deal?
Single pivot....oh that's it!
It's a carbon fiber frame...What's the big deal?
Single pivot....oh that's it!
Since when Blur is a single pivot bike? What's a big deal? - the way its made out of CF. Other companies do monocoque joints and then put CF tubes on them and glue everything together - it's stupid, and weighs just a bit less than alu, with all the negative aspects of CF.
Because no-one else makes carbon fibre frames.
How about Specializing envisioning the Brain shock? Putting their own forks on bikes? You're talking such shit. If they didn't make good bikes, they'd be out of the market. Please stop posting your terribly misinformed opinion on this site....
How about Specializing envisioning the Brain shock? Putting their own forks on bikes? You're talking such shit. If they didn't make good bikes, they'd be out of the market. Please stop posting your terribly misinformed opinion on this site....
nice bike but has anyone else started to realise that specalized and norco bikes are looking rather similar???? wouldnt say no to either but i liked the fact that all bike companies are different and have their own designs and they seem to be merging into one company, talk about direct competition
that make sense, i knew they use the same linkage but didnt realise they used similar design as a whole bike
I remember reading not that long ago (I think in a test by MB Action) that Norco only used Specialized's suspension on the Canadian market bikes. They either couldn't or didn't want to pay the license fee for the US bikes. I remember them saying if you want to buy one go to Canada. Not that the US bikes were bad, just not as good as the Canadian versions. I do not know if this is still true though.
heh. Although to be fair, the Norco suspension design is better, and so is the straight-through 1.5 headtube. Too bad there's such a weight discrepancy.
Norco pays royalties to Specialized to use the FSR suspension design. They do this because they firmly believe that the FSR design is the best design out there. That's where the similarities between Norco and Specialized end. The funny thing is that Norco has been using the FSR design since the early 90s, long before Specialized bought the patent (that's right folks... Specialized didn't invent the FSR, they BOUGHT it).
srbphoto - Norco sells the EXACT same frames around the world - there are no differences between frames sold in Canada, USA, or any other country (I think you're thinking of Devinci).
srbphoto - Norco sells the EXACT same frames around the world - there are no differences between frames sold in Canada, USA, or any other country (I think you're thinking of Devinci).
word, first generation SX trails were sex...the new ones don't have the problems but are not so appealing
the old one was good, the new one is good. I don't understand peoples problem with it. people are judging the bike on company policy
why not judge the bke on performance. if it works better, if it handles sharper, absorbs hits as well as the old one, why bash it.
if you look at most companis, at frist they build bikes for passion, and then even your little beautique companies work for the money. afterall nothing is free.
why not judge the bke on performance. if it works better, if it handles sharper, absorbs hits as well as the old one, why bash it.
if you look at most companis, at frist they build bikes for passion, and then even your little beautique companies work for the money. afterall nothing is free.
In my opinion its one of the most horrible looking bikes ive ever seen. The old SX Trails i quite liked (even tho i sor a few snap) but this new version is vile!
[Reply]
you get the strengh of 1.5" at the bottom and the lighter 1'1/8th at the top,also 1'1/8th stems gonna be lighter than a 1.5" stem an more choice if you upgrade
the new bike is so much faster then the old one.. i have the 09, my buddy has the 08 frame and built it up himself. I can honestly say that i feel more confident on mine even after a day on both. Oh and the brakes on the new one are worlds better then the old ones. Straight up.
Wow, this bike's even uglier than my Flatline! Oh, and good luck trying another rear shock. The clevis mount only works with the Fox...
Sorry Uncle Cliffy and everyone else that keeps going off about the lack of shock options, but you may be proven wrong very soon. I have yet to see it in the flesh but I know a mech at my LBS who is throwing an Elka on his. I watched last week as he pulled the yoke assembly appart on mine to throw a Ti spring on and he showed me just how other shock friendly it is. Apparently many other manufacturer's coil shocks will also mount up as long as you pop the DU.
i think that itss stupid that they put a dxh 4.0 on it.. i mean for what your paying i think that specialized is just being cheap and almost cheating the customer..
and i hate that f*cking brown seat!
and i hate that f*cking brown seat!
I sold my demo 8 and bought one of the new sx trail frames, I was not crazy about the way it looked, but, after switching all of the parts from my demo to this bike (minus the totem,switched to a fox 36, which weighs about the same, within a few ounces) this bike is 5 pounds lighter..
and it handles great. Never rode the old sx, but I am loving this one!
and it handles great. Never rode the old sx, but I am loving this one!
I can't stand the new sx trail. the old one was much better! I've ridden the new one and its just not the same. My next fully will defo be a Maelstrom or konig from Corsair.
once you get past the "curvy" looks and actually get to ride the new SXT, you would understand at once, WHY specialized changed the frame design
- increased standover height
- lower centre of gravity
- increased frame strength (the new SXT is 1/2lb heavier)
- increased frame ridigity
- longer seatube, gives much bigger seat post adjustment range
- dropped the shock DU bushing, and designed a smart rocker system that removes the shock tail from the "firing line" of the back wheel (which sprayed the old SXT constantly with dirt and water)
- square edge bump performance
the old SXT was just a slighter tougher, longer travel Enduro frame - nothing radical, and I never liked the geometry and tallness of the frame, but would of course concur that the FSR suspension was excellent for gravity riding
Compared to other companies freeride frames the old SXT felt top heavy with its interupted seatube and high shock mounting position, and had a tendency to crack when pushed hard, not being to raise / lower the seat post was crude and dumb, telescopic seatpost were not the solution as they are cr*p and fail quickly
the new SXT is an awesome frame / bike - it really feels like a lighter Demo 7 and that is a great characteristic
BTW, I don't even ride for Specialized...but a competing company
- increased standover height
- lower centre of gravity
- increased frame strength (the new SXT is 1/2lb heavier)
- increased frame ridigity
- longer seatube, gives much bigger seat post adjustment range
- dropped the shock DU bushing, and designed a smart rocker system that removes the shock tail from the "firing line" of the back wheel (which sprayed the old SXT constantly with dirt and water)
- square edge bump performance
the old SXT was just a slighter tougher, longer travel Enduro frame - nothing radical, and I never liked the geometry and tallness of the frame, but would of course concur that the FSR suspension was excellent for gravity riding
Compared to other companies freeride frames the old SXT felt top heavy with its interupted seatube and high shock mounting position, and had a tendency to crack when pushed hard, not being to raise / lower the seat post was crude and dumb, telescopic seatpost were not the solution as they are cr*p and fail quickly
the new SXT is an awesome frame / bike - it really feels like a lighter Demo 7 and that is a great characteristic
BTW, I don't even ride for Specialized...but a competing company
hampsteadbandit, I agree completely!
Someguy101, I also agree completely! But you don't have to look at it while riding it.
Someguy101, I also agree completely! But you don't have to look at it while riding it.
Ya well wehn you are off the bike you are still going to look at it once a while eh? And stop deleting my comments, Im entitled to my opinion and have the right to free speech damn it, this is canada a world of opportunited blah blah blah...
Having ridden the old ones and the new ones. I would have to say the old ones climb up a lot better than the new ones. I mean the bike still says Trail in its name but the climbing ability is nowhere near the same.
It rides better downhill than the old ones. It is very slack and is very much like a mini demo. The problem I think is that it almost feels too much like a demo. That being said I loved it going down and riding the lift back up but I did some trails on it and it did not like the climb.
It rides better downhill than the old ones. It is very slack and is very much like a mini demo. The problem I think is that it almost feels too much like a demo. That being said I loved it going down and riding the lift back up but I did some trails on it and it did not like the climb.
08 was with 9.0x2.75" shock / 400lbs spring rate for "L" and 09 is with 7.875x2.25" / 600lbs for "L"? Why is that?
I have had old SX and now im riding the new one. Geometry is very similarly. The new sx is better pedalling in uphill and its better for downhill ,the rear suspension work better than old sx a and the rear end is stiffer. On jumps or dirts are boot sx trails the same. And I mean ,mine 09 sx trail look nice :-) => http://www.pinkbike.com/photo/3567784/
This bike is just AWESOME! Ride one. You'll be hooked. It pedals amazingly well...It handles the steepest rockiest terrain you can throw at it. Now I have ONE bike instead of two, and the one does both disciplines better than the two "dedicated" bikes.
the new SXT should be a better pedaller up hills, simply because you can raise the saddle to a proper height for efficient, seated pedalling
the FSR bikes REALLY benefit from a smooth, seated pedalling position for climbing, if you climb standing on a FSR bike they are very choppy and feel energy sapping
the big problem with the old SXT (and the old Big Hit) was the very limited seat tube length due to the interupted design with the shock / linkage under the frame - this also raised the height of the seat pod making the bike feel tall, and you could only raise or lower the saddle a few inches
the new SXT does away with this problem, giving a much better standover height, lower centre of gravity and ability to drop / raise the saddle properly
the new Big Hit also benefits hugely from this change to the frame design
the FSR bikes REALLY benefit from a smooth, seated pedalling position for climbing, if you climb standing on a FSR bike they are very choppy and feel energy sapping
the big problem with the old SXT (and the old Big Hit) was the very limited seat tube length due to the interupted design with the shock / linkage under the frame - this also raised the height of the seat pod making the bike feel tall, and you could only raise or lower the saddle a few inches
the new SXT does away with this problem, giving a much better standover height, lower centre of gravity and ability to drop / raise the saddle properly
the new Big Hit also benefits hugely from this change to the frame design
I was lucky enough to actually own both of the bike for couple of days before decided to let go of my 08 model
I had both 08 and 09 SX trail 1, my 1st impression with the 09 was how cramped the cockpit is when I sit on it. Even though the bike looks longer than the 08. Then I took it for a ride around the park and I was quite surprised how good it feels and how responsive it is when I pedal.
To get the same feel of the bike I thought I should moved all the good parts from the old one and take it to the same trail I 1st ride my 08.
Again the 1st feeling I get :
more playful
easier to jump
faster out of a corner
more stable on drops
The rear suspension actually felt more plusher and bottomless.....
Too bad that I broke my collar bone a week after I took it out so no chance of taking it out to XC and AM riding anytime soon.....
So far I'm very pleased with my decision to move on with the 09 SX trail 1. You can go to my profile for the specs I got on it. My verdict is, felt like a mini demo but a lot better at pedaling and less weight(not much, mine weigh just under 16kg while my demo is 18.03kg)
I had both 08 and 09 SX trail 1, my 1st impression with the 09 was how cramped the cockpit is when I sit on it. Even though the bike looks longer than the 08. Then I took it for a ride around the park and I was quite surprised how good it feels and how responsive it is when I pedal.
To get the same feel of the bike I thought I should moved all the good parts from the old one and take it to the same trail I 1st ride my 08.
Again the 1st feeling I get :
more playful
easier to jump
faster out of a corner
more stable on drops
The rear suspension actually felt more plusher and bottomless.....
Too bad that I broke my collar bone a week after I took it out so no chance of taking it out to XC and AM riding anytime soon.....
So far I'm very pleased with my decision to move on with the 09 SX trail 1. You can go to my profile for the specs I got on it. My verdict is, felt like a mini demo but a lot better at pedaling and less weight(not much, mine weigh just under 16kg while my demo is 18.03kg)
[Reply]
ugly, bad ass, its all opinion. i owned an '06 and liked it but now have an '09 and also like it. and why should any company keep reproducing the same thing year after year? dont like it, dont buy it. i find the new design to be faster, quieter and damn sexy. it seems apparent that more and more bikes are going to have swoopy tubes in the future. its called evolution. have some dude make you a steel rigid 29er fixed gear if you don't like it.
i like very much Post A New Comment
Why was a comment deleted?
1. add additional on topic info to the article that other users will find useful
2. add props and support/encouragement for the video/photo/article/product/story
3. add and explain constructive criticism for the video/photo/article/product/story
1. add additional on topic info to the article that other users will find useful
2. add props and support/encouragement for the video/photo/article/product/story
3. add and explain constructive criticism for the video/photo/article/product/story
RSS
