2027 Specialized Epic 9 - Meet the lightest, fastest, most capable XC race bike!

Meet Epic 9, the lightest, fastest, most capable XC race bike Specialized have built to date. Built on 24 years of World Cup - beating innovation, Epic 9 takes everything that made Epic 8 the benchmark and advances it beyond belief. 

Epic 9 delivers:

  • The lightest full-suspension XC frame in the world at 1,589g*, 206 grams lighter than Epic 8.
  • 11% lower suspension friction for greater control, traction, and composure at race speed.
  • Refined kinematics delivering more speed per watt through optimized leverage and anti-squat.
  • A fully integrated Ride Dynamics system with proven Dynamic Trio three-position damping: Wide Open, Magic Middle, and Sprint-On-Lock.
  • Geometry refined through Body Geometry fit data for balance, efficiency, and control on modern XC courses.

The Lightest
Mass is the enemy of performance. At 1,589 grams, Epic 9 is the lightest full-suspension XC frame ever made. Every gram removed sharpens acceleration, improves handling, and increases speed per watt. This is weight savings you feel everywhere, from the first pedal stroke to the final sprint.

The Most Capable
When speeds are high and lines get chaotic, Epic 9 drops the competition. Lower friction and refined kinematics unlock control exactly when you need it most.

"The bike becomes an extension of me. You just let the experience ride itself."~ Christopher Blevins.

The Most Efficient
Every watt matters in XC racing. Epic 9 is engineered so nothing is wasted. Pedalling inputs translate directly into forward motion, even when the terrain gets rough.

  • Plush. Supple. Sharp.

    Ride Feel Advances

    • 120 mm travel front and rear for modern XC racing
    • Robust swing link, pivot, and integrated frame design reduce suspension friction by 11%
    • Optimized kinematics improve pedaling efficiency
    • Tuned leverage rate balances support, control, and efficiency

  • Suspension Science

    Early Stroke to Sag — Pedaling Support
    Reduced leverage rate at sag increases support, improving pedaling efficiency and traction.

    Mid-Stroke — Bump Control
    Matches Epic 8’s proven curve through the bump zone, maintaining control and momentum as terrain gets rough.

    End Stroke — Bottom-Out Control
    Mirrors Epic 8 at end stroke, managing big impacts and resisting bottom-out.

  • Specialized S-Works Demo 11 brakes

    Dynamic Trio

    Three suspension modes, one goal: maximum velocity.

    Wide Open
    Maximum traction and control for rough descents.

    Magic Middle
    Pedaling support with active bump compliance. Efficient on climbs, composed in the chop.

    Sprint-On-Lock
    Near-lock efficiency for starts and hammering in smooth terrain.

6 products

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