Beautiful Bicycle: Specialized S-Works Epic 8
Key Takeaways
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Mechanical Masterclass: Built around Specialized’s flagship S-Works Epic 8 frameset, this mechanical build is precise and simple, with an earthy, shimmering, gold and brown aesthetic.
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Gold Standard: A SRAM XX1 mechanical drivetrain, XTR brakes, and RockShox SID suspension deliver speed, control, and light weight.
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Refined and Reliable: From Roval Control SL wheels to a cleanly integrated cockpit, every detail reflects purpose-built performance; no batteries required.
Introduction
In a bike world increasingly defined by batteries and firmware updates, this mechanical Specialized S-Works Epic 8 stands apart.
Built around Specialized’s flagship S-Works frameset, it’s a masterclass in mechanical configuration: pure, purposeful, and unapologetically analog. The gloss carbon paint shimmers with a subtle gold finish, which appears brown-ish in certain light, and seems to conjure the very dirt that it intends to rolls on. And while we love electronic groupsets, this build proves that less is often more. In the words of Leonardo da Vinci, “simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.”
Frame and Finish: Carbon and Gold, Shimmering and Earthy
At the heart of this build lies Specialized’s S-Works Epic 8, crafted from FACT 12m carbon. Redesigned for 2025, the frame improves stiffness-to-weight and refines its suspension kinematics for greater traction and control.
Visually, the gloss carbon, gold pearl paint job radiates a warm, earthy tone that feels organic and intentional. Beneath that finish lies modern function: internal cable routing, SWAT in-frame storage, and geometry optimized for 120mm of travel, ready to take on any and all cross-country terrain.
Drivetrain: Mechanical by Choice
Where most S-Works builds go wireless, this one stays tactile. The SRAM XX1 Eagle mechanical drivetrain delivers razor-sharp shifts and proven reliability, favored by riders who value a more crisp, tactile feel. Every click of the shifter is immediate, deliberate, and satisfying.
A gold XX1 cassette and chain complement the carbon frame while ensuring efficient power transfer and long-term durability. Paired with carbon XX SL cranks and a Quarq power meter, it’s a setup built to last (and not to charge).
Suspension: Race-Proven, Race-Ready
Lightweight and race-proven, the RockShox SID Ultimate fork and SIDLuxe Ultimate shock strike the perfect balance of efficiency and control. A RockShox three-position handlebar remote lets the rider toggle between open, pedal, and lock modes instantly, keeping the Epic fast on climbs and confident through descents, right where it needs to be.
Cockpit and Brakes: Integrated and Intentional
The Roval Control SL cockpit blends clean integration with race-focused ergonomics. At 760mm wide with a -12° stem, it delivers responsive handling and aggressive posture. A Bike Yoke dropper post adds modern versatility, while Shimano XTR brakes provide flawless modulation and stopping power. Even the cables, neatly routed and balanced, remind us that mechanical can still mean immaculate.
Wheels and Tires: Race-Tested Reliability
Roval Control SL carbon wheels with DT Swiss 180 internals and ceramic bearings keep things light, stiff, and lightning fast, while Maxxis Rekon and Rekon RaceF tires bring the right mix of speed, traction, and race-ready durability.
Learn More
Interested in learning more about the Epic 8, or exploring a custom build of your own?
Helping customers translate their two-wheeled vision into a ripping reality is one of our favorite activities here at the shop.
If you're ready to get started, stop by during business hours (M-F 9a to 7p, Saturdays 9a to 6p), give us a call at (801) 364-0344, or send us a message send Contender a message.
The Build
| Category | Component / Description |
|---|---|
| Frame | Specialized S-Works Epic 8 Frameset, FACT 12m Carbon, 120mm travel, SWAT internal storage |
| Color | Gloss Carbon Gold Pearl / Metallic White Silver |
| Size | XL |
| Fork | RockShox SID Ultimate, 120mm travel |
| Rear Shock | RockShox SIDLuxe Ultimate, 190×45mm |
| Suspension Remote | RockShox 3-Position Handlebar Remote (Open / Pedal / Lock) |
| Drivetrain | SRAM XX1 Eagle Mechanical (Shifter, Derailleur, Cassette, Chain) |
| Crankset | SRAM XX SL Carbon Cranks w/ Quarq Power Meter |
| Chainring | SRAM XX1, 34T |
| Cassette | SRAM XX1 Eagle 10–52T, Gold |
| Brakes | Shimano XTR Hydraulic Disc Brakes |
| Cockpit | Roval Control SL Integrated Bar/Stem (760mm width, −12° rise, 8° backsweep) |
| Seatpost | Bike Yoke Dropper Post |
| Saddle | Specialized Body Geometry |
| Wheels | Roval Control SL Carbon, 29mm internal width, DT Swiss 180 hubs, Ceramic Bearings |
| Tire Pressure System | Quarq TyreWiz 2.0 |
| Tires |
Front | Maxxis Rekon 29×2.4 |
