2017 Specialized Epic FSR Expert Carbon World Cup vs 2015 Trek Superfly 9.8 SL

What changes on the Trek Superfly 9.8 SL

Compared with the Specialized Epic FSR Expert Carbon World Cup in M, the Trek Superfly 9.8 SL in XL places the top of the head tube 20 mm higher and 19 mm further forward, relative to the bottom bracket. Its wheelbase is 45 mm longer, which can contribute to stability at speed.

Frame stack

+20 mm

Higher front end

Frame reach

+19 mm

Longer frame reach

Wheelbase

+45 mm

Longer: steadier at speed

Head angle

−1.2°

Slacker: calmer steering

Chainstays

+6 mm

Longer: more planted

The two frames

Only the Specialized Epic FSR Expert Carbon World Cup is drawn. The Trek Superfly 9.8 SL numbers we have for size XL are missing the seat angle.

Geometry side by side

Differences are the Trek Superfly 9.8 SL minus the Specialized Epic FSR Expert Carbon World Cup. Full charts: 2017 Specialized Epic FSR Expert Carbon World Cup, 2015 Trek Superfly 9.8 SL.

Where each sits in its class

Specialized Epic FSR Expert Carbon World CupTrek Superfly 9.8 SL

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.