S-Works Epic: Exploring Setup Options, and Finding Versatility
- Posted on
- By G. Keller
- Posted in Builds, Custom Builds, MTB Builds, MTB weight savings, Shimano, Specialized Builds, Tech, Weight Weenie
In this blog we will look at a an S-Works Epic that we recently utilized the new Shimano XTR wireless group to achieve a set up that is not only lite weight, but also offers the ability to easily and quickly alternate beatween a geared OR single speed set up. Come look!
The other year we had the chance to do a really fun and unique build. An ultra lite(sub 18lbs) full suspension single speed using the S-Works epic as the starting point. We built it up, and got it to our friend just in time for his single speed season.
Well, the other week we got the bike back with one request: 'make it a geared bike, and make it easy to switch between a geared set up, or a single speed setup'. Roger that! Take a look at the 2 different setups we acheived. Functional, easy, fun.
Lets start by looking at the components that are used for both setups, then I will show a few shots of each build's different drivetrain.
Yep Podio dropper post and the Extralite Hyper Saddle.
Extralite Hyperboost 3 hubs front and rear, just to keep things nice and lite.
Hope XCR Pro X2 brakes.
The crank and chainring were a constant in both builds as well.
Boone cranks are hard to get your hands on, and we were lucky enough to have this 155mm crankset made for us when we built up the bike the first time. Amazing craftsmanship, and the cool part is they also custom make direct mount adapters for their cranks, making it possible to adapt the crank arm to basically any direct mount pattern you can find out there.
Suspension by RockShox.
First lets have a peek at the singlespeed setup.
A full suspension set up for single speed season, and just 17.9lb (8.1kg)...
The Melvin chain tensioner, by Paul comonents. As is customary here at Fair Wheel we took the chance to shave as much weight as possible by swapping out the stock pulley wheels for the HSC Ceramics carbon pulley wheels.
Titanium cog crafted by Boone. YBN Ti chain.
In the world of single speed drivetrains this would be hard to improve upon.
Lets have a glance at the XTR set-up
Feast your eyes on this. 19.8lb (8.9kg) as a geared bike...
The newly re-designed XTR rear derailleur.
Shimano did an amazing job streamlining the rear mech. As you can see the clutch is gone. This helps give us some extra protection from rock strikes.
When they did away with the clutch, they replaced it with a dual spring, which in turn gives us a 70% increase in chain tension compared to the last model.
Additionally, the battery cover has 2 seals, and the battery itself has its contact points situated at the top of the battery. This re-design gives us ample protection from water intrusion, as water would need to penetrate 2 seals, and make a vertical climb to have any effect on the battery. Great work from Shimano.
All the gearing you could ever need with that 10-51 cassette.
The Shifter was also given a big update as well.
On the bottom side of the shifter there is a switch that allows you to toggle between a double press and single press function. This has a fairly heavy detent for a digital shifter allowing it to feel almost identical to cable shifting. I love it.
Another really cool thing is adjustability. Your set-up can be even further customized by the new ability to position and angle the shift paddles to your liking. I haven't heard many people mention this feature, but Shimano really pulled out all the stops when they were developing the new XTR.
This drivetrain dont mess around.
Its hard to choose a favorite setup when they both look this good.
Alot of people think that mountain bikes can only be so lite, but the real fact of the matter is that there are a lot of places to find insane weight savings.
Take a look at the video on our YouTube channel, and Jason, Aiden and Jeff will go on a detailed walkthrough of both setups with you, teach you a thing or two, and hopefully give a little inspiration for your next project. Click on the thumbnail below to see the video.
Until next time, happy riding!