Specialized EPIC 8 EVO Exper Sram GX AXS 2025: Test Ride and Review, Pros, Cons, Issues, Performance, Opinions - Everything You (Really) Need to Know

Specialized EPIC 8 EVO Exper Sram GX AXS 2025: Test Ride and Review, Pros, Cons, Issues, Performance, Opinions - Everything You (Really) Need to Know

Specialized EPIC 8 EVO Exper Sram GX AXS 2025 Test Ride Review: Build Quality

The Specialized EPIC 8 EVO Exper Sram GX AXS 2025 comes with a high price tag, but everything about it is well-made. Nothing has been left to chance, and ultimately, it's an excellent bicycle. The frame design and rear suspension linkage are not entirely original. It's a shame the prices are so high.

Specialized EPIC 8 EVO Exper Sram GX AXS 2025 Test Ride Review: Frame

The frame of the Specialized EPIC 8 EVO Exper Sram GX AXS 2025 is a small work of art. It's very well-made with modern geometry and truly top-tier build quality. However, it's worth noting the overall complexity of the bike, which will translate to higher long-term maintenance and running costs. With these kinds of MTBs and this level of technology, the high purchase price is just the beginning of the expense...

The weight remains very competitive, but it's not exactly light at 12.2kg. While everything is well-made, quality comes at a price—perhaps a bit too much, as competitors don't perform any worse but cost less.

Specialized EPIC 8 EVO Exper Sram GX AXS 2025 Test Ride Review: Component Options

The range of component options for the Specialized EPIC 8 EVO Exper Sram GX AXS 2025 is limited, with all options coming at high prices. The price-to-quality ratio is still more than adequate; the MTB is just very expensive.

Specialized EPIC 8 EVO Exper Sram GX AXS 2025 Test Ride Review: Comfort

While it may not offer maximum comfort, it's a more-than-capable XC bike. It clearly has a stiff frame and a firm rear suspension with relatively short travel. That said, it's much more comfortable than a hardtail and less so than a 120mm full-suspension bike. It strikes a good balance for those looking for an XC bike that still offers decent comfort. All things considered, the ride comfort is good.

Specialized EPIC 8 EVO Exper Sram GX AXS 2025 Test Ride Review: Handling

The Specialized EPIC 8 EVO Exper Sram GX AXS 2025 follows Specialized's tradition of MTBs with frames that might not be the easiest to ride but are intuitive and offer extremely high performance. Compared to the previous Epic, the entire bike is stiffer, more responsive, and faster, but this also requires more effort and experience to manage its reactions.

Its dynamic behavior highlights solid stability and optimal weight distribution, which allows you to climb even technically difficult trails with extreme ease. The control is still intuitive, and the traction is excellent. The relatively low weight also makes the most difficult and technical climbs easier.

The new rear suspension works well and is a valid alternative to other classic designs. However, it functions much like other suspensions—you might find it works well for you, or you might prefer a Trek, a classic Cube, a Canyon, or a Giant. Having tested them all, the Trek is the stiffest and most difficult to tune, while traditional ones are the smoothest and easiest. The Specialized is close to the Trek's stiffness but remains smoother and more sensitive over small bumps.

Overall, the Specialized frame is excellent. Its stability and security on descents are good, with performance that is excellent in absolute terms. It's easy to ride on flat terrain, where you appreciate its comfort but, above all, its high performance. This is a perfect frame for fast trails with hard and compact surfaces. The braking and suspension are both excellent.

This is an MTB suitable for any trail, excellent on descents, flats, and climbs; its only limitation is the rider... The frame is truly superb.

Specialized EPIC 8 EVO Exper Sram GX AXS 2025 Test Ride Review: Performance

The overall performance of the Specialized EPIC 8 EVO Exper Sram GX AXS 2025 is high. There isn't a single element that can be criticized, at least in relation to the bike's price, which is high but not excessively so. Consequently, its performance is at the top of its class. Of course, you need to have the "legs" and handling skills to exploit such a frame. Like all MTBs, the stiffer, more responsive, and faster a frame is, the more effort and skill it requires to ride.

Specialized EPIC 8 EVO Exper Sram GX AXS 2025 Test Ride Review: Pros and Cons

The Specialized EPIC 8 EVO Exper Sram GX AXS 2025 proves to be an MTB of excellent performance and overall quality. It has a great frame, is light, stiff, and fast. Its one true flaw is its high cost. However, like other Specialized bikes, it will hold its value well on the used market.

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Editor's note: The photo is for reference only and does not show the specific bike tested.