First ride: New Specialized Chisel FS running bike – aluminum light done

There are three complete models on offer, with prices starting at $2,600 and going up to $3,400. There’s also a frame-only option with striking pink and yellow paint, priced at $2,000.

As for weight, my large frame with the fixed axle installed weighed 2920 grams. Specialized says it’s the lightest full-suspension aluminum cross bike, and it very well could be, as options from competitors like Scott and Trek weigh in at over 3,200 grams. I’m always a little skeptical of the “world’s lightest” claim because inevitably there’s some small European company that’s managed to make something even lighter. In any case, the chisel frame is impressively light.

Frame details

Specialized use a technique they call D’Aluisio Smartweld on the Chisel FS frame. Basically, the head tube, top tube and down tube are all hydroformed so that the joint fits together as perfectly as possible before welding begins, without the need for miter.

As an additional weight-saving measure, the chisel has a one-piece hydroformed seat tube that integrates the seat tube pivot, main pivot and center console shell.

There’s no in-frame storage to be seen, but there’s space inside the front triangle to carry two water bottles. Cable routing is internal, with foam sleeves to keep things calm. Other details include a small flap at the front of the chain stays to protect the frame from rock eating and a molded rubber chain guard.

Geometry

Over the past few years we’ve seen the same longer and lazier trend that has swept through the trail and enduro bike categories applied to cross bikes, and I’m all for it. Modern XC bikes are fast, efficient and now a lot more fun on more technical terrain. The Chisel is no exception with a 66.5 degree head angle in the low setting, a 75.5 degree saddle angle and 437mm chainstays. There are five sizes available, from XS to XL, and the reach of the large size measures 470mm.

Compared to the Epic 8, the angle of the chisel head is slightly steeper (a smidge of 0.6 degrees) and the reach is 5 millimeters shorter. The Chisel also has a longer head tube, giving it a stack height that’s 10mm higher than the Epic 8. It’s still possible to have a fairly low front end for riders who prefer a more slouched, traditional XC position, but the higher stack height also facilitates a more comfortable , a neutrally upright position that’s close to what you’d expect on a trail bike.

Suspension design

Chisel uses a 190x40mm shock for its 110mm travel and no, you can’t run a 190x45mm shock to increase the range of travel – I asked. There is a seatpost bridge that could potentially touch the seat tube if the wrong size shock was used, so it’s best to stick with the stock configuration or use a Stumpjumper if you think you need more travel.

According to Specialized, the kinematic profile of the Chisel FS is between that of the outgoing Epic EVO and the new Epic 8. That means it’s slightly less anti-squat than the Epic and has a slightly higher leverage ratio.

Models and prices

Chisel FS Comp | $3,400: RockShox SID, Rush shock, Deluxe Select+ shock, Shimano M6100 2-piston brakes, Shimano SLX / Deore drivetrain, TranzX shock, Specialized Fast Trak / Ground Control tires.

Chisel FS | $2,600: RockShox Recon Silver RL, X-Fusion Pro-02 shock, SRAM Level T 2-piston brakes, SRAM SX / NX drivetrain, TranzX suspension, Specialized Fast Trak / Ground Control tires

Chisel FS Base Shimano | $2,600: RockShox Recon Silver RL, X-Fusion Pro-02 shock, Shimano M4100 2-piston brakes, Deore drivetrain, TranzX shock, Specialized Fast Trak / Ground Control tires

Frame and shock only: $2,000

Driving impressions

When I saw that the Chisel FS was only available as a frame, and the frame happened to be bright pink, I decided to see what I could come up with. The result is a decidedly non-budget-oriented build that weighs in at 26 pounds (those 1190 gram Roval wheels help keep that number reasonably low), with parts that suit my preferred style of XC riding, which tends to involve trails that are on the more technical side of things .

I don’t understand the hunched over position that some XC racers still prefer, thanks in part to some permanent titanium hardware in my back, so I went with a 50mm stem and 760mm wide bars with 35mm of rise. Other parts that don’t fit the typical XC mold include SRAM Code brakes and a 170mm dropper. It’s been pretty wet lately so I’ve been running Maxxis Rekon tires front and rear, but once things dry out a bit more I’ll be putting on the extra fast rubber.

Out on the trail, the chopper feels exactly as I hoped it would—it’s pedaling is quick and snappy, with just enough lift to shrug off chunky climbs and rougher descents. It’s not a bike I’d take if I wanted to try and tackle the roughest descents around, and it’s not meant to be. Instead, it’s perfect for quick lunchtime rides or long rides where the goal is to cover terrain rather than rack up all the air miles.

The 110mm of travel is well managed, meaning it doesn’t give up those millimeters too easily, and the times I hit the bottom of the suspension were well-earned. The overall feel is more sporty than super supple, but I think it goes well with the character of the bike. The same goes for the chipper’s handling – it’s fast without being jerky and on more undulating terrain where you can pump over the natural rollers to get more speed.

I would love to see the introduction of the Chisel FS inspire more companies to introduce lighter aluminum XC bikes. They make a lot of sense for a huge number of riders, whether it’s a beginner high school racer, someone looking to upgrade from an older, more traditional XC bike without breaking the bank, or anyone who wants to mix things up and try something. lighter and livelier than heavy enduro sleds.