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Can't believe this thread hasn't appeared yet.. Here is 2014 Epic Elite : Specs at: http://www.specialized.com/es/en/bikes/mountain/epic/14epicepicfsrelitecarbon

Apologies in advance if someone has asked this at some point, I did search the forums. I have a 2016 Specialized Camber and a 2016 Stumpjumper. The Camber has a "Brain" shock, the Stumpy has a non-brain shock. I prefer my Stumpy's rear shock, actually I prefer my Stumpy's whole shock setup to the Camber (it's fun). I'd like to be able to experiment with different shocks, but everything on the local second-hand market seems to have a different mount to what's on my Camber. I don't know what this mount is called, but it seems to be *the* standard rear shock mounting system. A website called bikeyoke sells an adapter which allows the use of standard shocks on a 2016 Camber, but these adapters, before shipping and customs duties, are about R 1700 (probably going to be about R 3000 all up as an estimate). Does anyone have any suggestions on an adapter available locally that is this price or less? Am I wasting my time wanting to try out different shock options? Maybe I'm expecting too much of my Camber.

Hey fellow hubbers The time has come to buy a new MTB. After 6 years of trusted service from my alu hardtail, my body has decided that a dual sus with longer travel is required. I am a weekend warrior, thus the slacker geometry and longer travel will make the ride more enjoyable (or so I read). Below are the bikes I have on my radar. You guys are welcome to comment on the list, recommend bikes I have missed or remove if I should not consider due to experience. The option on my budget Scott Spark 930 2018 – R40k: https://bike-addict.co.za/collections/scott/products/scott-spark-930-2018 Scott Spark 920 2017 (carbon main frame) – R49k http://www.vbike.co.za/scott-spark-920-2017/ Trek fuel ex 9.7 2018 (carbon main frame) – R53k https://www.trekbikes.com/za/en_ZA/bikes/mountain-bikes/trail-mountain-bikes/fuel-ex/fuel-ex-9-7-29/p/2144600-2018/?colorCode=black_red Specialized Camper comp 2018 (carbon main frame) – R55k https://www.specialized.com/za/en/mens-camber-comp-carbon-29---2x/p/133921?color=239846-133921 Ideally I would like to stay as close as possible to my budget of around R40k, however considering I am going to ride this for a long time I can probably stretch it a bit for good reason. My LBS does not have any of the bikes I am looking at, and this is where I have a problem. I do not mind buying the bike over the internet (if my LBS cannot get the bike for a competitive price). But I would like to test ride the bike. From the treads below, it is clear that a test ride is important to make a decision. Similar treads on bike hub: https://community.bikehub.co.za/topic/172711-what-to-buy-scott-vs-giant-mtb/ https://community.bikehub.co.za/topic/172692-spez-camber-comp-2017-or-giant-anthem-2-2018/ https://community.bikehub.co.za/topic/171934-spaz-camber-2018-or/ Thus I have come to the point for my blabbing on in this post: I live close to JHB/PTA area and are able to drive through for a day over the weekend to test ride some bikes. I do not know where or which bike shops have demo bikes to test based on my list above and this is where you guys come in. I am looking for bike shops I can contact to test ride as many of the bikes in a day as possible

Hi Hubbers I am in the market to upgrade my 2014 Spez Stumpjumper Expert to a new 2018 S-Works Camber. I have always wanted to own a model from the S-Works line-up and the new 2018 model looks fantastic! Spez SA won't be bringing in the (complete build) 2018 S-Works Stumpy so it has to be the Camber. I would like to hear from fellow Hubbers that actually own S-Works models if it is worth the extra expense, or is it OK to go for the Expert model in the line-up. The S-Works model will sell for about R130k compared to R90k for the Expert model. Apart from showing off with the S-Works decals and a few fancy carbon bits, is it really worth it? Happy riding!

Keen to get some first-hand opinions/experiences from those who have owned or ridden the previous generation and latest generation Camber please...? Busy toying with the idea of selling the Epic and seeing how the world looks from a Camber. How much different is the rider experience and handling on the 2016 Camber over the one it replaced (2014 I think)? http://www.vitalmtb.com/product/guide/Bikes,3/Specialized/Camber-Comp-Carbon-29,13367 vs https://www.specialized.com/za/en/bikes/mountain/trail/camber/camber-comp-carbon-29/106275 I see the frame shape changed slightly, susp travel increased from 110mm to 120mm, and the chainstay length shortened. All good reading it all on paper, but how different are they in reality?

What are your thoughts on the 2017 Camber Comp? I'm trying to decide between the Camber and the Stumpjumper FSR Comp (R9000 more). Any other bike (Trail 29er) recommendations in this price range? Camber Comp: R40k Stumpy: R49k

Hi, I just moved into SA recently and despite doing road biking for the last 2Y, now I find myself more tempted to move to MTB (The roads here seem a bit dangerous better to go on weekends to some trails) To give you some context... I ride just because I enjoy and it's a way to keep fit, I have no plans to compete, still like to beat myself and the adrenalin of speed, but the reality is that I am a very basic rider and will be looking for XC mainly. I'm planning to sell my Trek Emonda S5 (2015), and buy a full suspension MTB (read many posts on the forum and my mind is made), my budget is around R30000. My options: 1. Spez camber comp 29 (R34k) 2. Spez camber 29 (R26K) 3. Trek Fuel 8 (R???) 4. Merida ninety six 9.600, 9.800 or even the XT (R45.000 in cyclelab) 5. Spez Epic Comp 29 (R40K) Btw, I am 1,85m tall and the guys in a store were trying to sell me a Spez camber comp carbon XL , the info I found is that I should be looking for an L size, can you guys confirm it? I also need to consider the option of the 2nd value, in case I want to sell it in a few years time. Really appreciate your opinions! Thanks

I am looking at buying a carbon full suspension XC mountain bike and the two in my price range are the Giant Anthem X Advanced and the Camber Comp Carbon. The Giant has great components full XT while the Specialized also has excellent reviews. Any insights on which would be the better choice are appreciated?

What would be the most beneficial over the standard spec? I have followed the other similar topics of late, and I have done skills training, upgraded to XT brakes, and added the dropper! running nice 2.3 rubber front and back....so what is next? I see wide lighting's recommended for wheels and RS Revelation for fork. Which one first (wish I could do both at one )? Also, if I go with fork first, Revelation or Pike? love technical riding (not that I am good at it, just good luck ) Riding places like Hakahana is awesome, but keep in mind I also do a lot of marathons like all typical SA riders. 2 bikes would have been awesome, but what can I do to make this one that I have the best? Appreciate the feedback

Hi guys (including Spec haters ), So I've had me 2015 Specialized Camber Comp Carbon for a few weeks now and really loving it but even as a newbie, one can't help getting all caught up in the "need to upgrade hype". Having said this, would you guys be able to help budget and plan the upgrades on my bike. Specs are as follows (plus spez bottle cage, tubeless conversion and freebie shimano cleat pedals ): FRAMEFACT 9m carbon front triangle, 29" geometry, FACT IS construction, M5 alloy rear triangle, tapered headtube, carbon PF30 BB, full internal cable routing, 142mm dropouts, sealed cartridge bearing pivots, replaceable derailleur hanger, 110mm travelREAR SHOCKCustom FOX Float CTD Evolution w/ AUTOSAG, air spring, lockout, rebound adjust, 197x48mmFORKFOX Float CTD Evolution 29, air spring, tapered steerer, Climb, Trail, Descend settings and rebound adjust, 15mm thru-axle, 110mm travelHEADSET1-1/8 and 1-1/2" threadless, Hella Flush style upper with 1-1/2" lower, cartridge bearingsSTEMSpecialized XC, 3D forged alloy, 4-bolt, 6-degree riseHANDLEBARSSpecialized XC, mini rise, 6000 butted alloy, 8-degree backsweep, 6-degree upsweep, 10mm rise, 31.8mmGRIPSSpecialized Sip Grip, light lock-on, half-waffle, S/M: regular thickness, Others: XLFRONT BRAKEShimano Deore BR-M506, hydraulic disc, dual piston, resin pads, S/M: 180mm rotor, Others: 200mmREAR BRAKEShimano Deore BR-M506, hydraulic disc, dual piston, resin pads, S/M: 160mm rotor, Others: 180mmBRAKE LEVERSShimano Deore BL-M506, hydraulic, alloy leverFRONT DERAILLEURSRAM X7, 10-speed, S3 direct mount for DMD, bottom pullREAR DERAILLEURShimano XT Shadow Plus, 10-speed, SGS long cageSHIFT LEVERSShimano SLX, 10-speed, triggerCASSETTESRAM PG 1030, 10-speed, 11-36CHAINSRAM PC 1031, 10-speed, w/ PowerLink, nickel finishCRANKSETCustom SRAM S-1250, 7050 alloy arms, 10-speed AM double, PF30 spindle, 36/22, 104/64mm BCD spiderBOTTOM BRACKETSRAM, PF30, OS press-in bearings, sealed cartridgePEDALSResin test ride, w/ toe clips, CEN std.RIMSRoval 29, alloy, 21mm inner width, 32hFRONT HUBSpecialized Hi Lo disc, sealed cartridge bearings, 15mm thru-axle, 32hREAR HUBSpecialized Hi Lo disc, 4 sealed cartridge bearings, 12mm thru-axle, 32hSPOKESDT Swiss Industry, stainlessFRONT TIRESpecialized Ground Control, 60TPI, 2Bliss Ready, folding bead, 29x2.3"REAR TIRESpecialized Ground Control, 60TPI, 2Bliss Ready, folding bead, 29x2.1"SADDLEBody Geometry Henge Comp, hollow Cr-Mo rails, 143mmSEATPOSTSpecialized alloy, single bolt, 30.9mmSEAT BINDERSpecialized 7050 alloy, single bolt, 34.9mmSize MMuchos Gracias

Hi guys, So I'm new to this forum and new to Mountain Biking in general. I would really appreciate it if you guys could give me a bit of advice regarding the purchase of my first proper mtb. Quick history: Been to a few cycle shops and was most impressed by Complete Cyclist in Bedfordview- they invited me to the Modderfontein Nature Reserve this morning to try out some bikes (Specialized Epic Comp and Specialized Camber Comp). I rode both bikes and most certainly preferred the Camber Comp. Having said this, I realise that the bike which I rode was not the exact same bike which they've offered me- in fact it had slightly better components (Shimano Gears with Internal Cable Routing) than what they've offered me a deal on which is the Camber FSR Comp 29 - 2015 Model for R29 000. Is this a decent bike to start out with? When I usually make such purchases, I like to get something that's quite decent and something that I won't need to change for the next few years (considering that I'm keen to do casual riding at this stage). I'm also not sure on the price that they've offered me or if I should consider the 2016 model which is going for +- R33 000. Having said this, their service has been excellent and it's the type of store which I'd like to build a relationship with cos I know that they'll take care of me. I would really appreciate your guys input... Thanks, Martin

Hi, I am fairly new to biking, and, after a lot of research, I think I've narrowed my choices to the Giant Anthem Advanced 29er (R41k - 2015 model) or the Spez Camber Comp Carbon 29er (R41k - 2015 model) i.e. both are the same price. I have also been quoted R47k for the Spez Epic Comp Carbon 29er. I'd be interested to hear from the members which bike they feel offers better rideability and value for money. After reading numerous posts, I know that a lot has to do with personal preference so I plan on riding both, if possible, before purchase. Cheerio.

Trail riding encompasses all of the sweet spots of mountain biking— getting outdoors, climbing with friends, and descending amazing trails that put an ear-to-ear smile on your face. We've lived the trail riding life since we released our first trail bike in 1981, and the feeling has never been lost. We're excited to announce the all-new Camber. Click here to view the article

I am taking the plunge and buying a rockshox reverb stealth for my Spez Camber. I know I must get the 380mm, as that is the same length as my current seat post (medium frame camber). My dilemma lies in the following: Do I get the 100mm or 125mm drop???? I am short, only 1.68m, and afraid the 125mm wont allow me to fully extend the seat post to suit my current seat height. Also, assuming it is 30.9mm for the Spez Camber? All feedback appreciated.

Hi Guys, They broke into our shop last week and stole 7 bikes. They were last seen for sale in Pretoria, Rooihuis Kraal. The bikes were moved before the police could track them down though. These were the stolen bikes with serial numbers: 2015 Stumpjumper FSR Carbon WSBC604048083J 2015 Epic Elite carbon WSBC604014917J 2015 Camber Expert Carbon WSBC614803018J 2015 Camber Comp Carbon WSBC614802962J 2015 Tarmac Pro Race WSBC604044884J 2015 Fatboy Pro WSBC602150616J 2014 GT Zaskar 9R 100 expert large Please contact us with any info at sales@bellscycling.co.za or gawie@bellscycling.co.za or 013 757 0920 Thanks

So.... I’m sure this isn't the first time this has come up But I've reached a point of desperation here... I simply cannot decide. I need feedback on long(er) term experience. I’ve decided to get myself a 29'er after a couple years on my awesome Trek EX9. I'm going the Spez route, it’s just a matter of either Camber or Epic Comp Carbon. Both bikes get rave reviews, besides one or two minor things, eg:- brakes on the Camber. First time I rode an Epic ( Expert) was at the lower part of the DaggaPad route at Van Gaalens, out on a out test ride with my mate(Shaun). He had the bike most of the 25km route we rode, I was only on it for about 3km, but didn’t like it one bit. I was on my EX9 and couldn’t wait to get back on it and off the Epic. He, however loved it. A week later he bought an Epic Elite, same bike just not carbon rims. I Took a Camber out a week later and really, really enjoyed it. I rode the concrete road, DaggaPad etc at Van Gaalens and rode the route much better than I did on my EX9 the week before. My mind was pretty much made till Shaun convinced to at least try the Epic once more again… I did… and ARGH…. Really liked it too! Did the River and Greek Church at Van Gaalens, felt one with the bike as I did the the Camber, 2 weeks prior. As the line in the verse from Live’s Lightening Crashes goes….. “The confusion set in…….” WT ef Now?? I took the Camber out again today.. once again , amazing…. granted no Brain (which by the way is just mind blowingly good) like the Epic. So what do I do? Which do I decide on? which should come first? Chicken or Egg?