Some things in life are certain, like death, taxes, and getting asked the question about what XC bike I prefer between the Specialized Epic, Cannondale Scalpel, and the Yeti ASR. For whatever reason, these 3 bikes have managed to group themselves together, when in reality they are each very different.
We have reviewed each one of these bikes independently as well as included them in a XC Shootout, however for the sake of having a single article to send to people when they message me, I am typing out my thoughts here on each of these bikes.
Yeti ASR:
Summary: With 115mm of rear travel and a single pivot, flex stay suspension design, the Yeti ASR is hands down the more “endurance” XC bikes of the 3. It is insanely light, something very noticeable when you start to put the power down. At the same time though, it is also very capable, much more so than its lightweight nature would lead you to believe.
The stability from this bike comes from the size proportional chain-stays while the maneuverability comes from a slightly shorter reach than the Scalpel or Epic. The carbon itself is also very comfortable, and out of the 3 it has the most impressive stiffness to vibration damping feel out on the trails.
The single pivot flex stay suspension design also is very well suited for this bike, allowing it to come in at such an impressive weight. This bike is awesome with the Rockshox remote lockout as well, and similar to the epic, it does have a slightly more active initial stroke which helps with traction.
Who is it for: If you are a rider looking for a lightweight XC bike for everyday adventure rides or endurance XC, this would hands down be the bike I pick. It’s light, fast, and plenty capable while also being very comfortable!
Cannondale Scalpel:
Summary: Everyday shred machine meets XC weapon, the Cannondale Scalpel blends both worlds! Also utilizing a single pivot flex stay suspension design, although the difference lies in the positioning of the actual Flex Stay. It is located on the chainstay close to the axle, as opposed to the seat stay, mimicking a horst link suspension design feel, while retaining a lightweight profile. This is very noticeable out on the trails, as out of the three it was my favorite single pivot suspension design, especially under braking.
The bike is also very stable, going with a longer reach and rear chainstay approach. So many times I forgot I was even on an XC bike, and it is very evident that Cannondale wanted to make sure everyone could have fun on this bike, from XC pro’s to everyday trail riders!
Best part about the Cannondale Scalpel? The build options are insane, and the amount of bang for buck you get with the Scalpel 2 is truly indicative of Cannondale wanting more riders on short travel bikes.
Who is it for: The Cannondale Scalpel is that bike for someone who wants to race on the weekend and ride all types of trails during the week. You can get away with pushing this bike on some serious dicey trails but also rest assured knowing you have the perfect bike for race day.
Specialized Epic:
Summary: The world's fastest XC race bike was the motto behind this bike's development, and it clearly shows out on the trails. The bike screams fast. It’s slack, it's low, it's light, and it's just enough of everything! The most noticeable thing while riding this bike is how much it encourages you to push it, both uphill and downhill.
It also has a lower stack height, keeping you nice and aero while putting the power down. The BB is also lower, giving you this slalom-like feel in and out of corners. The Epic is also the slackest bike out of the 3 and makes you wonder if this is the direction XC bikes are heading, especially given the bikes success.
Some other stand out features are internal frame storage and a geo adjust, allowing this bike to also be an awesome trail bike companion when it comes time for the off-season.
Who is it for? The Epic is race inspired and it clearly shows by how the bike rides. So if you are looking for the quickest XC bike, chances are if all variables are equal, this probably is going to edge out the others.
Which Bike Is The Best?
It is always hard to pick a winner, especially given that it feels like a personal opinion. To me, the winner is the Cannondale Scalpel. It fits me like a glove with its long reach as well as size proportional chainstays, and can be treated like a race bike or every day trail ripper. A true do everything XC bike, this would be the bike I would pick.
With that being said, the ASR and the Epic might be better suited for you! If you find yourself wanting a more endurance XC style race bike, and love that light weight feeling to short travel bikes, the Yeti ASR is hands down the option here!
Craving more of an XC race weapon, the Epic inspires you to push it to your HR limits every ride and probably is the bike for you .
Whatever one you go with, you can’t go wrong. All 3 bikes are awesome!
Happy Trails
-Mo Awesome
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