Specialized ENDURO COMP (2013)

Is this the ultimate all-mountain bike?

Pros

- Legendary handling downhill
- Competent components
- Does most things well

Cons

- Limited climbing capability

Review

The Specialized Enduro has, like many of its siblings, earned an almost legendary reputation in its particular mountain bike category. We talk about 'jack of all trades' bikes a lot at BikeRoar and Enduro certainly fits the bill. This 160mm all mountain bike descends well, corners and handles sublimely and can even climb if necessary.

The Enduro can be thrashed, hammered, thrown around and ridden to within an inch of its life and do it over again without complaint. Yet it is also smooth and never feels as burly or chunky as it looks. When ridden, one of the only complaints is that climbing is compromised because of the weight and the slack head angles...but it is a 160mm bike so it's not a fair criticism anyway.

The bike is adorned with solid kit that gets the job done. Suspension is a Fox 34 fork on the front and Fox CTD shock which can both be adjusted for climb, trail or descend, making this a versatile mountain bike. SRAM looks after the drivetrain and is known for its durability when pushing the limits. Specialized's own brand Roval provide the wheels, and Avid the brakes. All good kit and spot on for the money.

This is the alloy version, so if you want similar ride qualities but lighter weight and better components check out the carbon models. The Enduro is great for someone looking for an unbreakable fast descending mountain bike that soaks up all the hits, has plenty of travel and can also be pedaled. It will climb, but if that's your thing look elsewhere.

Another legendary ride from Specialized that keeps getting better with age.