Joe Breeze is attributed with making the first mountain-specific bike, but the Specialized Stumpjumper was the first mass-produced mountain bike, and the first one widely available to the public. It entered the market in 1981 and retailed for $750. The Stumpy has come a long way in parts, technology and price, but its newest incarnation, the S-Works Stumpjumper FSR 650b ($8,600), is still authentic to the original tagline: “The bike for all reasons.”
The Specialized S-Works Stumpjumper FSR 650b handles everything from rolling hills to aggressive and technical terrain. Compared to other trail bikes in the 150mm travel class, this thing feels like an XC hardtail. At 27 pounds, the weight is barely noticeable on sustained climbs thanks in part to all-carbon everything: Roval carbon wheels, a carbon frame, carbon cranks and a carbon handlebar.
Perhaps the coolest feature of the bike is Specialized’s new S.W.A.T. system, which stands for storage, water, air and tools. The system takes the form of a door on the downtube. The door opens, allowing you to store a tube, pump, cash, your ID and keys inside the frame itself. The system also includes a multi-tool that is integrated cleverly into dead space by the rear shock as well as a chain tool that is hidden in the top cap of the headset.
The Specialized S-Works Stumpjumper FSR 650b exemplifies 35 years of innovation and fine-tuning. It is Specialized’s best Stumpy to date and will satisfy even the most discerning of trail riders.