Start 2023 and Specialized presents its MTB Dream Team: many new features, such as the arrival of Martin Vidaurre and Victor Koretxky, the farewell of Jordan Sarrou, the retirement of Gerhard Kerschbaumer and the heavy confirmations of Sina Frei, Laura Stigger, Haley Batten and Christopher Blevins.
SPECIALIZED EPIC WITH MANY SOLUTIONS IN TEST
A whole new Epic without Brain: NOT using the Brain is the first thought that comes to mind since it is a solution that is not always loved even in the amateur field. Excellent idea but then in practice they are often not only advantages. From the photos you can see the absence of the Brain tank, on the rear triangle, and 2 protruding cables that connect to the fork and shock absorber.
It is not yet known whether the suspensions will be electronic: the cables can act as a lockout or they are the electrical connections of the suspensions. It seems strange that Specialized presents an Epic prototype with innovative solutions and does not use electronic suspensions, but we are waiting for the confirmations of the case (FURTHER INFORMATION ON ELECTRONIC SUSPENSION). If the Specialized PROs persist in continuing to use their bikes without Brain, this technology could be less and less coveted even by the amateur/commercial world which, as we know, follows what the PROs use.
INTEGRATED COCKPIT AND AXS GEARBOX
From some frames on social media, it can be seen that the Factory Racing athletes are using an integrated carbon cockpit, branded Roval. Prototype not yet on the market.
From this photo, you can also see the Sram gearbox, which hasn't been presented yet but is increasingly visible (such as on Schurter's bike for example). Sram Eagle AXS (electronic) ever closer even for mere mortals. In the photo below, we can better see the gearbox and crankset: both are new products not yet on the market. There may also be a built-in power meter.
The 2023 season is full of excitement and news: many investments by the brands both in components and in athletes. Fasten your seatbelts.
