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 XS places the top of the head tube 11 mm lower and 45 mm further back, relative to the bottom bracket. Its wheelbase is 60 mm shorter, which can contribute to quicker direction changes.

Frame stack
−11 mm
Lower front end
Frame reach
−45 mm
Shorter frame reach
Wheelbase
−60 mm
Shorter: quicker to change direction
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 (XS), 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, XSDrawn to scale and lined up at the bottom bracket.

Geometry side by side

MeasurementSpecialized Chisel Frameset MSpecialized Epic Hardtail XSDifference
Reach430mm385mm−45 mm
Stack605mm594mm−11 mm
Head tube angle68°68.5°+0.5°
Seat tube angle74°74°±0.0°
Chainstay length432mm430mm−2 mm
Wheelbase1124mm1064mm−60 mm
BB drop63mm63mm±0 mm
BB height309mm309mm±0 mm
Standover792mm732mm−60 mm
Seat tube length430mm367mm−63 mm
Fork length506mm486mm−20 mm
Head tube length95mm95mm±0 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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