Quiver

2021 Specialized Chisel Frameset vs 2021 Specialized Epic Hardtail

The Specialized Epic Hardtail size closest to your M is the M. Compare the M instead

What changes on the Specialized Epic Hardtail

Compared with the Specialized Chisel Frameset in M, the Specialized Epic Hardtail in L places the top of the head tube 17 mm higher and 25 mm further forward, relative to the bottom bracket. Its wheelbase is 24 mm longer, which can contribute to stability at speed.

Frame stack
+17 mm
Higher front end
Frame reach
+25 mm
Longer frame reach
Wheelbase
+24 mm
Longer: steadier at speed
Head angle
+0.5°
Steeper: sharper steering
Chainstays
−2 mm
About the same

The two frames

2021 Specialized Chisel Frameset (M) and 2021 Specialized Epic Hardtail (L), lined up at the bottom bracketBoth frames drawn to scale. The Specialized Chisel Frameset is drawn in full with its measurements, and the Specialized Epic Hardtail is the colored outline on top.J 1124

Specialized Chisel Frameset, MSpecialized Epic Hardtail, LDrawn to scale and lined up at the bottom bracket.

Geometry side by side

MeasurementSpecialized Chisel Frameset MSpecialized Epic Hardtail LDifference
Reach430mm455mm+25 mm
Stack605mm622mm+17 mm
Head tube angle68°68.5°+0.5°
Seat tube angle74°74°±0.0°
Chainstay length432mm430mm−2 mm
Wheelbase1124mm1148mm+24 mm
BB drop63mm63mm±0 mm
BB height309mm309mm±0 mm
Standover792mm816mm+24 mm
Seat tube length430mm470mm+40 mm
Fork length506mm506mm±0 mm
Head tube length95mm110mm+15 mm

Differences are the Specialized Epic Hardtail minus the Specialized Chisel Frameset. Full charts: 2021 Specialized Chisel Frameset, 2021 Specialized Epic Hardtail.

Where each sits in its class

Specialized Chisel FramesetSpecialized Epic Hardtail

AggressivePositionUpright
CalmSteeringQuick
PlayfulBalancePlanted

Each bike is ranked against the other XC bikes on Quiver, on frame geometry alone. Not your hand position or ride feel.

What each ships with

The stock build of each bike's first listed trim. Parts that match are dimmed.

PartSpecialized Chisel FramesetFramesetSpecialized Epic Hardtail
FrameSpecialized D'Aluisio Smartweld M5not listed

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