Forks

All models of Epic are designed to perform best with 42-44mm offset forks. Both the standard and EVO models are approved to use forks with a maximum of 120mm of travel.

Position-Sensitive Brain dampers are used on Epic models. Position-Sensitive damping eliminates the split-second “spike” or hesitation between your front wheel hitting a rock and the Brain inertia valve opening. Pure smooth.  We’ve changed when the inertia valve kicks in, but that race-proven, firm Brain pedaling platform is there for you when you need it most. Get out of the saddle to sprint and it’s pure fast.  Previous Brain forks were firm, right at the beginning of their suspension stroke. At times that meant your front tire would bounce off rocks and roots, instead of tracking smoothly over them. Position-Sensitive forks are more compliant in the initial inch of travel, greatly improving traction and control.  Some riders felt that our earlier Brain-equipped forks sit a bit high in their travel. The new Position-Sensitive forks ride at a typical “sagged in” level—this improves chassis balance and better positions riders, particularly on climbs.

Epic rear shocks

All Epic models feature an updated Brain rear shock. The Brain shock has similar adjustability to the last generation, except you will now turn the adjustment clockwise (closed) to the firm setting.  There are 5 settings for Brain Fade stiffness for the rear shock.  

A video explaining how the Brain shock works and how to adjust the firmness of your ride can be found here: 

Rebound adjustment is done on the air canister, near the forward shock mount.  There are 15 settings for rebound adjustment.

To reduce the complexity and weight of the new shock, the Auto-Sag feature has been removed from the Brain shock.  Recommended sag for XC is 13mm, 25% of the 52.5mm stroke.  Tips for how to set sag can be found here: RockShox Rear Shock Sag Setup

Epic EVO rear shocks

Epic EVO rear shocks are non-Brain.  An industry standard 190x40mm shock is used on complete bike builds; aftermarket options are available from many manufacturers.  Rx Tuning for Fox and RockShox will be available to riders who purchase AM shocks.

Recommended sag for EVO models is 11mm, 27% of the 40mm stroke.  Tips for how to set sag can be found here: RockShox Rear Shock Sag Setup

The Epic EVO frame is compatible with remote rear shock lock out cables. The cable is routed through the top tube and out of a port in front of the forward shock mount.   If the rider is using a mechanical derailleur, dropper seatpost and a remote lockout, four cables may be routed into the headtube by removing the plastic ICR port. Cables are set up as shown below:

A: Rear shift cable

B: Rear brake cable

C: Dropper post cable

D: Shock actuator cable


Please note: suspension on a bicycle is a complete system. Specialized frames are designed in conjunction with the shocks and supporting parts that come factory-installed. While many aftermarket shocks (air or coil) may physically fit on the bike, they may not be compatible with the frame. Always check with the shock manufacturer to confirm compatibility with your specific frame before purchasing and installing a different shock than what was originally supplied with the bike or frame.