2020 Specialized Fuse Comp: First Look and Buildup - Hardtail Party

[@nickoliver9576]

Mr. Hardtail Party, I must thank you, firstly, for your great content. Educational, genuine, and over all quality information and just enough production value to make it visually appealing and entertaining. But more importantly thank you for doing first looks. Too often the “reviewer” rips the bike out of the box, builds it up, and “reviews” it. Thank you for actually riding the bikes!

[@hardtailparty]

Of course! It's not a review if you just go over the specs. That's one of my pet peeves too. I'd they're just reading specs to you, it's not a review. It's an overview. Stay tuned for the on-bike ride review.

[@lukekrznaric318]

I've been waiting for this review series. I bought this bike a couple week ago an I could not be happier! Really respect this guys opinion. Cheers from Canada

[@hardtailparty]

Glad you're digging your bike

[@jhm5497]

I bought the base model a few months ago as my first mtb, so stoked your getting around to reviewing it.

[@nate49509]

I did a custom 2020 Fuse build on 27.5 plus tires. So far I love it. It weighs in at 24lbs.

[@hardtailparty]

Do you have a dropper?

[@downeastmtb8091]

24??!! How?

[@rossimessi1]

Is this on a 29er frame? Thanks.

[@stevencole7331]

Glad to see you helping out a local bike shop Steve .

[@hardtailparty]

They help me out way more than I help them. They're a great shop.

[@msuisltvaenrg05]

Dude! You finally got your hands on one! I did a few key upgrades but LOVE mine! Looking forward to your review.

[@jonathangreiner]

Hi Steve! The CS's adjust from 420 to 435. For a point of reference, my size L frame up build (not sure if the model you have is the higher end M4 which is lighter, but mine was around 4.8 lbs including the hardware) is around 28 lbs (140 MRP Ribbon, XTR brakes, Turbine cranks, X01 drivetrain, 35mm RF aluminum rims with 29 x2.8 Rekons, 160mm Bike Yoke, I9 stem, 800mm carbon bars). Specialized OK's a 140mm fork which you would probably dig. Stock builds are pretty good at the price point, but I think the frame up build is worthy of consideration!

[@hardtailparty]

Thanks for the info. The comp has the same M4 frame as the expert.

[@adriannawebber2157]

That’s almost precisely the build I just did, XTR brakes and MRP fork on the M4 fuse. Fun ride!

[@chadherrera9322]

Great video. Just picked up the Specialized Fuse 27.5. It’s stellar! Upgrade from my 97’ Klein Pulse Race.

[@hardtailparty]

that's quite the upgrade indeed! Enjoy the new bike.

[@juliebirb7162]

YAY! I have a Fuse. It's a 2020 and it's the 27.5 x 2.8 model size and I LOVE it!

[@andymorell1205]

I ended up Selling my Trek Full Squish and bought a 2021 Fuse 27.5 (All they had in stock in my size) The bike is great and i will be upgrading some parts on it soon. Im glad i was able to join the Hardtail Party

[@hardtailparty]

Congrats! Welcome to the party.

[@calebcole3252]

I just bought one a few months ago I’m happy you did this review.

[@nk7123]

Does it wheelie well

[@sebastiannielson1952]

@@nk7123 you can wheelie any bike

[@andyshive5777]

I've got the 27.5+ model of this bike and I love it! Thinking I might go down from a 2.8" tire to a 2.6" when it's time to replace the ones that came with it.

[@Kj95-y4u]

Andy Shive how tall are u and witch size u have .?

[@andyshive5777]

@@Kj95-y4u I'm 6'2". I have the XL. I'd say my size I'm in between the L and XL but preferred the XL when I test rode

[@Kj95-y4u]

@@andyshive5777 ok thanks iam 178 witch size fits me u think?

[@andyshive5777]

@@Kj95-y4u IDK ask your local bike shop

[@crispychicken7552]

I love the fuse. wish you could get in slx drive drain.

[@hambo76]

Just a thought but I'd love to see how the bike handles with an angle set headset (like your wife's hardtail). Would this make it a 65 degree head angle?

[@hambo76]

The 2020 Fuse was launched in June 2019 so we'll likely see the 2021 range next month! Hopefully they address the seat tube water bottle mount issue and put the new Deore groupset on there.

[@bk83082]

I hope we start seeing that new deore on lots of sub-$2k bikes. You always hear people talking about how great SRAM's warranty department is... I would much rather ride stuff from a company who's warranty guy is like the Maytag repair man.

[@hardtailparty]

​@@bk83082 I haven't found the new shimano 12 speed to be better or worse than the SRAM 12 speed. Both are great options. I've had plenty of warranty issues with Shimano components, and I've had one issue with a sram component. Both systems are great these days, and I'm convinced most riders wouldn't be able to tell the difference between the two if they were blindfolded.

[@hambo76]

@@hardtailparty I think we're talking about Eagle SX specifically - my friend has it on a Stumpjumper and the shifter and rear derailleur are bargain basement quality. It takes a lot of fine tuning after a few rides. NX or above are fine (GX being the sweet spot!)

[@tonynoka]

Here you go, this are the highlights of 2021 model. FRONT HUB Shimano MT410-B, Centerlock 28h, 15x110 Boost REAR HUB Shimano MT410-B, Centerlock 28h, 12x148 Boost, Microspline REAR DERAILLEUR Shimano Deore, M6100, 12pd, Shadow Plus CASSETTE Shimano Deore M6100, 12spd w/Hyperglide+, 10-51t FRONT BRAKE Shimano M4100, 4-piston, 200/180mm REAR BRAKE Shimano M4100, 2-piston, 180/160mm

[@michiganstate149]

The chainstay shift cable is a pain to run through the frame. Took me about an hour to do. The angle from downtube to chainstay is really tight but it does look nice once done. Learned my lesson about swapping back consistently from SS to geared. Best SS setup out there. Super easy to use and setup. Massive tubing on the frame and the 34.9 dropper is noticably stiffer. I love the wide bars and super short stem paired with a durable wheelset and tires on this build. If I had this I'd immediately swap the Levels for some XTs and potentially the derailleur for NX or GX and call it good. Solid trail hardtail with support everywhere as you mentioned. Even for those of us who are (somewhat) competent in working on their bikes can appreciate walking into any Specialized dealer for parts or if you have issues. That's why I'm also a fan of Giant with good build kits for decent prices with dealer support everywhere.

[@hardtailparty]

DId you run the shift cable from the back forward, or from the front back? Either way, it doesn't sound fun. I'll bet this bike rips as a SS. I'd love to try one setup ss.

[@michiganstate149]

@@hardtailparty I don't remember how I exactly got it. Tried it everyway. I think I ran the shift cable first and then put the housing over it to get it to work. I at least liked that they had some rubber wraps around the cables to prevent rattles in the downtube and I prefer the cable in the chainstay and not being run under it like a lot of bikes do. I ran it with the stock chainring up front (30t) and a 17t out back. Lot of bike to pedal, the Expert was about 31# with tubes, but a ton of fun.

[@dansburns]

Picked up one for my daughter a couple months ago. Lucky for me, she is tall and we both fit on the medium. \m/ It is a great bike. She is already riding faster with more confidence this year and I think this bike helps inspire that. She was already a hell of a climber, so she is absolutely crushing it with that Eagle drivetrain. I'm getting too old for hardtails, but this one sure is fun. For the price, it's hard to beat the Fuse. Love your channel. Party On!

[@hardtailparty]

Father of the year right there! What a lucky girl. I wish I had a bike like this when I was a teen.

[@aaronhironaka7143]

Hey Steve! I've been riding the Fuse Expert for some time now and I think you'll really enjoy it. Geared up I'm close to 300 lbs and I can beat this bike up all day with no worries! Glad to see you picked one up. Looking forward to your full review!

[@hardtailparty]

Glad you love yours! It's a cool looking bike.

[@zensukai]

Canadian here and I too have this bike, love it! =)

[@darrellsummers9978]

Definitely appreciate this review. It is exactly what you said. My local bike shop is a dealer making it most easily accessible for checking it out in person and supporting my local shop whenever possible. Keep up the great first looks, builds, and reviews.

[@baralidasan1487]

Ragley mmmbop and dartmoor hornet review please :)

[@QuyNguyen-jb7sh]

These are hard to find in the US, so it is most likely that he will not review those anytime soon. Even Nukeproof Scout couldn't be review due to its rarity.

[@grug440]

Ragley wont send him one

[@ThePedro8-25-78]

I have a 2016 and it’s a great bike!i was sad to see the diamond chain stay abandoned,it was a kool little feature!

[@dannyh3335]

Thanks Steve! My brother is getting into MTB for the first time and we’ve been waiting for this one!

[@jeremynsuess]

Just drove 4 plus hours and two states away yesterday to pick up one of these babies. My 15 year old got the Fuse 27.5. Looking forward to your review, hope it’s coming soon! 😀 Will be real interested in how it feels to you compared with your most recent Paradox review with the 120mm fork...

[@jeremynsuess]

And we did have the shop make it tubeless, which I’ve never ridden before.

[@hardtailparty]

Good call. These will be unavailable for a while. It'll be worth that long drive. Lucky kid!

[@maxzimmermann6605]

My 2018 dartmoor primal 27.5+ has the same cable routing for the derailleur. You should get your hands on one.

[@hardtailparty]

I've reached out to Dartmoor, but no luck

[@a.drewwalker9662]

Love n Respect for Absolute Bikes in Sedona. I had a GREAT mtb experience due to their expertise and professionalism... I have had only 2 bike shops in my travails where I was blown away by a knowledgeable, friendly staff, attn to detail, non-judgemental tudes etc, & they are one of them... (Over the Edge in Fruita, CO is the other shop btw)

[@hardtailparty]

Well said. They are a fantastic shop. Super well-stocked, and dudes who really get it. I'm so lucky to have them as my local shop.

[@johnmausteller]

Just got a 2021 comp. hoping that rear adjustment thing , is solid , for big hits

[@sparks701]

Thanks for the review. Had a chance to get an expert at a pretty good price. Pulled the trigger yesterday. Can't wait.

[@hardtailparty]

Congrats! These are really hard to find right now.

[@sparks701]

hardtail party you are not kidding. Especially in size large. I’m in Illinois and had to order from North Dakota.

[@hardtailparty]

I predict in 2 weeks there won't be any left in the country. If you're sure it's the bike you want, start calling around 'till you get lucky. Not even Specialized employees can get them. They're completely sold out from the warehouse.

[@sparks701]

hardtail party I got lucky. I commented on a review video here on KZbin that I’ve been looking for months for the expert version in large and another KZbiner mentioned his local shop had one. Made a few calls and now I’ve got one on the way! Hopefully next week I’ll be riding it.

[@Eric-md7lz]

Great review. I was between this and the Marin San Quentin 3 and I ended up with the Marin in a large. The 27.5 sold me since the fuse 27.5 was specced much lower. This 29er looks great though! Wonder why they used such narrow wheels though 🤔

[@Mattmillerhahaha]

I have this same bike except I have the plus with lager tires, I've been super happy with it so far! I've put a ton of miles on mine cross country and downhill, the fork has been good for me, my BB just started speaking after about a month of hard riding so I will probably upgrade it

[@dcrooster3610]

I'm really excited to see what you have to say about this bike. Seems like the big companies are starting to take hard tails serious

[@christopherwalsh7700]

DC Rooster I was around when the same was said for dual suspension.

[@dcrooster3610]

@@christopherwalsh7700 I'm wondering when it will come full circle

[@tjay_mac]

I wonder if a 30.9/150mm dropper with shim would work with the bottle bolts removed? That’s something to try for those who owns a Fuse and wanting more travel on their post. OneUp also has 6mm lower saddle clamps. I use theirs on my PNW Components.

[@drones7838]

Santa Cruz highball all cables are routed internally and in the chain stay both brake line and shift cable

[@charliebanks8979]

I've owned this bike for 3 months now (in the uk) I have the 2020 Fuse Expert - been waiting for you to review it! I LOVE it, it shares parts with my Identiti AKA so I have multiple hardtail set ups 27.5, 29er, and 27.5+

[@rossimessi1]

Does your fuse work with 27+ wheelset? Is the BB high enough. Thanks.

[@craigmiller9478]

Love the knowledge you drop, and your impartial opinions. Your channel is awesome, Steve!

[@hardtailparty]

Thanks Craig

[@renenavarro4121]

I'm super happy with my scout, I hope you could actually find one and try it..its a blast!!

[@TrailFeatures]

Looks like a sweet bike! I'm also a big advocate of people riding something before putting down money. I used to think I knew what fit me until I got on a bike that actually did.

[@vividvulpe9842]

oh, SNAP! I have the base 27.5+ in that cool red color. I love it! just want a beefier chain on her

[@hardtailparty]

I wish the base model had the same adjustable chainstays as this model.

[@vividvulpe9842]

@@hardtailparty and my handlebars are too low, after a hour of riding my palms lose bloodflow to their nerves.

[@dansburns]

Wish that color was available on the M4 frame. That green is cool, too.

[@237311]

Nice build. What is the weight of frame you've used on this build?

[@FlynPig911]

Can’t wait for the review! Honestly, it was between this bike and the Chameleon. I went with the Chameleon.

[@hardtailparty]

A chameleon is never a bad choice. Congrats on the great bike.

[@Mill72]

My SRAM SX left crank fell off after a couple rides. Luckly it was not a steep turn, as I flowed out straight in small decent.

[@hardtailparty]

Dang. I hate loose crank arm bolts.

[@olliechub7931]

Ah unlucky with the Nukeproof Scout. My local bike shop stocks them but I live in Ireland. Great video

[@Jamesthebikeguy]

Nice build and good looking bike!

[@hardmtnbiker]

Specialized is always a good value. I’d love to buy a frame set and build up as a SS. My only problem is they should offer a 142x12 dropout conversion. That’s one of the reasons that I’ve been looking at the Chameleon. True I could use any Boost 148 geared hub rear wheel but I really like my SS specific 142x12 hub wheels. The wider flanges just make a superior less dished wheel

[@lukasbormann4830]

There are bikes for 1500 with gx, rockshox Reba fork and magura brakes

[@Eri94]

I got super lucky when I picked up my scout. I picked up the frame for the 290 and normally I'm a L frame but the only option I had was an XL. Luckily enough their XL ran a bit smaller and I didn't have any issues with it. Like you said, it's super sketchy to buy something and not have a chance to test it out

[@MichaelRichardson-yg5qo]

Great reviews. Was sold on Orbea Laufey base, now stuck between fuse base 27.5 plus and the Comp 29er. Leaning toward the base 27.5 plus with upgrade to fox 34? Seems like a great new bike for a 55yr old. Love the look of the 2.8 tires.

[@trevlo9208]

Did the medium come with 180mm/160mm for rotors? Or does 200mm/180mm start with medium and up?

[@Eramirez209]

Nice! Will you ever review a Giant bike? Fathom 1?

[@hardtailparty]

Probably not. I prefer to only review 12mm thru axle bikes.

[@Eramirez209]

@@hardtailparty ok, thank you for replying. You give the best reviews!

[@duc7686]

Where you able to get your hands on a Nukeproof scout? I’m looking for my first bike and it’s between the fuse comp and the scout pro. Not sure which one will be good for a first bike.

[@waldemarwegrowski4023]

Thanks for the great review. What size would you recommend for 5'10" -34 inseam and 6' arms spam. Thank you.

[@robvigesaa5738]

I love this color. Great looking bike! I just picked up a 2020 27.5+ model in sage green! One of the last ones available in Utah atm.

[@hardtailparty]

Congrats! These bikes are getting really tough to get ahold of.

[@rashimehrotra3249]

Have you tried the Vitus Sentier range ?

[@Fatbacker]

Please review the Rocky Mountain Growler. The geo looks right your alley

[@gabrielgarcia367]

So I have the 2016 Fuse Comp. Been happy with it. It has the Suntour Raidon fork, which again, I have had no issues with. But it leads me to a suggestion...you tested different tires with the Banshee and it changed the ride of the bike significantly. It would be great for you to try different forks on the hard tails, budget forks like the Raidon, to see what kinda difference they make on the bikes.

[@hardtailparty]

Stay tuned, I have some of this in the future. I'm ok with budget forks as long as they have adjustable springs (air), and rebound.

[@scottaw]

Have had my '20 Fuse since March, built up from the frame with my own components. Aside from Shimano XT brakes and Eagle 12x drivetrain, a key difference is the fork I had was the standard 52mm offset, so it slackened the head angle a wee bit more. Overall, it's been a blast. Modern geo hard tail is a blast, super fast and nimble, loves to climb obviously, and really eats up downhill chunky stuff. Will be interesting to see your review. I think you'll dislike the brakes and fork, but the rest should tell the story.

[@hardtailparty]

I've been digging the shorter offset forks lately. I like the way they turn.

[@adventuresona700dollarhard5]

I took my girl friend to the LBC and matched her with this bike. The camera doesn't do the color justice. That bike is dope.

[@hardtailparty]

Excellent choice. Based on looks alone, this is one of my favorite bikes. Stay tuned for my on-bike thoughts/review coming next week.

[@uonadtehrrocks]

I just picked up this exact same bike partially on your recommendation. Wish they would have specked a slightly better fork but other wise I think it's good. The tires and bar are MASSIVE guna need to cut down the bar.

[@hardtailparty]

Agreed. A RS Revelation would be ideal on this thing. Even the expert needs a better fork.

[@uonadtehrrocks]

@@hardtailparty The Judy and Recon overlap but the Base should have something with the motion control Damper, the COMP should have a Recon Gold RL and the EXPERT should have a Revelation (It's only $50 more than the 35 Gold used)

[@eugeneramos777]

Hi! Whats the largest chainring you can fit in the fuse?

[@theblishknovk]

Been trying to decide between the fuse and the nukeproof scout for a while. But prob going with the fuse just because its slightly less money for the base model even with the dropper. And i can buy locally in person and throw a leg over. But after i try one of these i might order a nukeproof down the road and try it out.

[@hardtailparty]

The reach is a lot longer on the fuse, which is a good thing in my opinion. But it's always fun to try different things.

[@rdaglock]

Good stuff Steve! Can’t wait to hear your unbiased views on how the geo rides for you(I assume you will go max short on chain stay) as well as the all up thoughts. I am loving my 2020 Comp.. but now want 97 other bikes too thanks to you! 😁

[@hardtailparty]

You know me well. I actually rode it in both the long and the short settings, but ended up with a strong preference at the shortest setting.

[@letsgo_inc]

On the off chance you answer...quick thoughts on using a Slack-R on a Fuse (1.4 degrees) to get it more in line with modern hardtails? Worth it or just messing up an already great frame.

[@hardtailparty]

Depends on the year of the fuse. The current fuse is pretty good with it's head angle.

[@letsgo_inc]

@@hardtailparty ah. I have the current frame at 66.5. slightly slacker with a 10mm increase in travel. I'll try and forget this idea and just get a super slack FS for the park

[@hardtailparty]

@@letsgo_inc with all things it depends. If you want slacker, it's a cheap experiment to see how you like it.

[@dazcoop4225]

Couldn't get to throw my leg over one in the UK before i paid a deposit and placed an order for one in the bike shops here. After x6 easy December rides out, bottom brkt and rear wheel bearings shot. Got replaced on 1st service through the warranty.

[@filmsurgeonmac]

Hi Steve, I just picked up a 2021 Expert (thanks for the recommendation). There was no chainstay protector on my bike. I noticed in your video that yours did not have one on the chainstay when you unboxed it, but at about 4:25 there was one. Was it in the box for you to attach? Thanks.

[@hardtailparty]

Yes. Your dealer should have installed it for you. It's a cheesy one though, so don't feel too bad if it's missing. I'd make one out of mastic tape. Congrats on the killer bike, those new experts are speccd really well.

[@Benxl-bn3cr]

Okay.... feeling like our Timberjack purchase is holding up based on what I see here. Looking forward to the full ride review. 🤟

[@outsider1733]

Maybe this is a dumb question but could you remove a water bottle screw in order to slam the post? Or is there a protrusion inside the seat tube? Thanks as always for the excellent bike reviews!

[@hardtailparty]

Unfortunately the nut that the bolt threads in to protrudes too much.

[@anthonywalters7434]

I’m probably buying a Nukeproof Scout sight unseen, it’s a solid spec and I’ve ridden other bikes with the same components and it felt great. The geo seems great and I’m smack in the middle of the range for a medium.

[@hardtailparty]

See my video on the 5 tips for buying your next bike. Component spec is only part of the equation (and probably the least important part). Just trying to help a brother out.

[@hambo76]

The Nukeproof Scout Race is $700 cheaper (albeit without a dropper) so that's a significant chunk of change right there! But... Factor in the dropper post and delivery plus the lack of dealer network and perhaps its not such a bad deal after all?

[@hardtailparty]

also, it's important to remember that a bike is more than the sum of its components. The frame is the most important part. The Nukeproof doesn't have sliding dropouts, it doesn't have clearance for 29x2.6, abd it doesn't have modern reach numbers. That's all worth a bit more money to me. No matter how good your parts are, if they're hanging off a frame that doesn't ride great, it won't matter. Now, if the geo, ride quality, and features of the Nukeproof frame are exactly what you want, then you'll save money buying direct. But done just compare prices and components. There's so much more to the story. And keep in mind $1675 is MSRP, not what the bike actually sells for in a shop. So you can't compare msrp to sale price for a direct to consumer bike. Would I love it if it were $400 cheaper? Sure, but the frame would probably ride like it (like the commencal)

[@anthonywalters7434]

hardtail party It actually has more reach than my current bike, and my current bike doesn’t feel too short in terms of reach, it’s actually really easy to move the whole thing around under me and stay in control with only 418mm of reach, and I’m more than happy with 29x2.5 inch tires. I also need good components as I am the only one in my family who bikes at all and I’ve been barred from upgrading my current bike at all because it is “too expensive”. I’ve been trying to move to a 1x for a year but the only chainring that fits my cranks is a 76bcd.

[@Cryton1]

the fuse is pretty cool - there is a shop in Texas that has nukeproof

[@jacobbruner1]

If you remove the bolt for the bottle cage could you put the dropper all the way slammed?

[@hardtailparty]

No

[@jacobbruner1]

@@hardtailparty that's a bummer. Thanks for the fast reply! Really like your videos

[@abel2cycle989]

Cant wait! Great review! I wanna see that bike in action

[@ajfuller3369]

Good looking hardtail. Can’t wait to hear your thoughts on it

[@andrewsallee6044]

I know this is a weird question, but what was that bright orange bike in the shop. (What can I say, ... oooh, shiny!)

[@hardtailparty]

it's a specialized ebike. Not sure on the model.

[@xavier8351]

I've been eyeing other bikes comparable to the Fuse but, like everything else, it comes down to components. I used to sell Specialized and never had an issue with customer service, even when getting defective parts or frames. I'm definitely going to subscribe and check out your channel. Hoping I can find reviews for the bikes I'm interested in.

[@hardtailparty]

Thanks for subscribing. I have a whole playlist for reviews.

[@rebelsbaseballizbom]

Anyone know if you can swap out the freehub body on these, or if I'd have to get a whole new rear hub? I want to put an SLX rear cassette on my Fuse 27.5 but don't have microspline.

[@lionelhernandez34]

I've had one for a couple weeks now, fairly heavy compared to my 26 Gary Fisher sugar 2. In all honesty though it's just as fun and nimble on the trail.

[@hardtailparty]

Yeah, 29ers and droppers add weight. But it's worth it. :)

[@lionelhernandez34]

@@hardtailparty I'm having fun with it, I may look into 27.5 when it's time to replace the tires.

[@czechnolike]

Great! Glad you got something close by. I demoed last year's, and it felt uninspired on those 29er, 2.6" wheels.

[@rjahn3000]

Great thanks, hoping for a Kona Big Honzo review as well!

[@hardtailparty]

I don't have access to a big honzo, but I'd love to review one too.

[@rjahn3000]

@@hardtailparty Not sure if it will work but will email Kona and see if they will send you one.

[@hardtailparty]

that'd be awesome. It always means more coming from my viewers than from me.

[@downeastmtb8091]

Just bought a 2019 Fuse Expert last fall. First new bike in 25yrs. Love it so far but definitely feel I've got a lot to (re)learn. A lot has changed! Not sure sure I'm digging the 800mm bars for one but do I take the plunge and cut them? :P Your vids help! Cheers.

[@hardtailparty]

I cut all my bars to 760mm to match my shoulder width. That will be the best way to determine if your bars are too wide.

[@downeastmtb8091]

@@hardtailparty I've heard to measure shoulder width by measuring your hands from a push-up position. Sounds silly as I type it out. Just literally measure the width of your shoulders?

[@hardtailparty]

There's more to it than that. I can't explain it well in the comments here, but if you do some research on bar width, you should be able to find some good pointers. Most pros are running 750-780.

[@mellissanash7517]

There is also the Bombtrack Cale in this class too. My friend's bike has a Level TLM & it was better than Level I tried. I want Guide T on my Plus tire bike as its Level brake lever but 4pot guide caliper in the front. Really like the sliding drop out here on the Trek, much better than Surly & Soma's offering. What fork is that?

[@hardtailparty]

Unfortunately the geo on the bombtrack looks fairly dated (440 stays, short reach, 67.5* sta). Fork is a Recon RL.

[@MooseBeCanadian]

Been thinking about buying this bike, awesome video!

[@juansanchez-tr1dq]

If you're thinking about it, you waited too long. Hopefully the 2021s come out soon!

[@Wargwarn]

If you haven't already, you need to review the Whyte 905 V2. The best hardtail around atm.

[@hardtailparty]

Ive tried, but I can't get in contact with them.

[@danfsims]

Loving the channel mate have you tried any Orange hardtails? I’d recommend the Clockwork Evo - it’s the perfect trail HT!

[@hardtailparty]

I've tried to get one for review, but no luck. It's tough to get UK frames here for review, as shipping is a pretty big expense for these companies. I hope to try one someday.

[@johnnydoe66]

I was considering the Fuse Expert myself, but budget constraints kept me below $1800 for the bike plus needed accessories ie; tubeless setup, shock pump, pedals.... Sorry, but I ended up with getting a bike you didn't seem too thrilled about....2020 Trek Roscoe 8. It fit me the best and that's what ultimately matters, you gotta love it to want to ride it. I do love Hardtails the best, I am old school (started riding Mtn bikes in 1991). My first experience with a Mtn bike was in the Army, my buddy was from Oregon and bought an 1987 Specialized Stumpjumper. (New), so I am sorta old 😏

[@hardtailparty]

Don't be sorry. If you love your bike, that's all that matters. And budget is important. I'm glad you've found a bike in your budget that you like so much.

[@johnnydoe66]

@@hardtailparty I got lucky, bike sales here in Oklahoma have skyrocketed and stock is low. Got the last one in my size in my area. Now waiting for the rain to quit.

[@hardtailparty]

It seems like covid-19 has only encouraged more bike purchases as people sit at home dreaming of riding again.

[@johnnydoe66]

@@hardtailparty Yep, more people out and about. My back country roads I ride on my road bike use to be lonely, now I see fellow cyclists every time.

[@tojidoksto4122]

Do it have master link

[@jonathangreiner]

Hey Steve, curious where you set the chain stay length to start? When I ran my L at 420, it really limited it on the climbs as well as the overall balance and high speed stability. I know you dig short CS’s, but in a medium I think your sweet spot will be in the 425-430 range.

[@hardtailparty]

I've tried all ends of the spectrum and ended up slammed at 420 as my favorite. Small riders and large riders have different needs with regards to chainstay, body position, and geo.

[@davidmoralesdamian5264]

My dream bike is the brand of Chromag since the head tube angle is 64°, but having import one of their frames and built it is so expensive for me. I also like your RSD bikes but there are no dealers in my country. Specialized is one of the brands that is easy to get where I live, and the fuse, with that aggressive geometry is a sweet spot for me. How much punishment can this bike take and how does it ride? I'll wait to your next ride with the fuse.

[@uonadtehrrocks]

Can I get that Specialized camo Enduro Jersey if they have on in XL? :)

[@currymasterrace7153]

Sadly the fuse is not available in france and swiss, there are not a lot of hardtail here :(

[@davidmoralesdamian5264]

The Fuse are not the only ones, there are a lot of interesting aggressive hardtail in Europe like: Commencal, Dartmoor, Marín bikes, Genesis, Chromag etc... In UK There are brands as well but since they are longer in the European union, be careful with custom taxes and import.

[@currymasterrace7153]

David Morales Damián there are hardtail but not a lot, i’ve bought a Dartmoor primal 27.5, very good bike and super cheap!

[@ikertolosa]

Hi Damian, I live in Switzerland too. It looks like Specialized Europe (the branch in charge of distribution in almost all countries like Germany, France, Belgium, Switzerland...) are not selling it. Just UK and Spain do it because they are different divisions. Depending on @hardtailparty review, I will probably order it abroad and try to import it from Germany

[@kimrice394]

Sliding drops!!! Yes! Yes! Yes!

[@homarzantos7642]

Donde consigo uno asi?...Estoy en Florida...

[@Tony-1971]

Steve, can i ask which size tyres you prefer to ride the most? 27.5 or 29? Im 5.8ft and wondering if a 29er on a medium frame would be a bit big for me. Im also thinking a medium frame on 27.5 tyres may be a bit small. I know a medium frame is recommended for my height, but im just not sure whether to go with a 29er or the 27.5 option.

[@hardtailparty]

I actually have a video on that topic

[@Tony-1971]

@@hardtailparty Hey, Steve. Thanks for replying - much appreciated. Is it the video about how different wheel sizes change the way a hardtail rides?

[@goatboatmoat2476]

I almost got a fuse until a dude (I think you guys know each other) steered me towards getting a steel frame. Super happy with that decision, aluminum honestly does not feel half as good as steel.

[@hardtailparty]

That's too bad. A lot of people generalize and think all steel frames ride better than all aluminum frames. Sadly, that isn't the case. kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHOzlml8Z5p5hM0

[@goatboatmoat2476]

@@hardtailparty Well, another reason is I wanted a bike that would last longer. I have heard steel will last longer than aluminum

[@jhors1209]

What do you think about fuse vs laufey? I looking about what is Better

[@hardtailparty]

I describe the ride characteristics of both in their reivews. I prefer the fuse, but it depends on what you want out of a bike.

[@darrenMok]

Doesn't the commencal that you tested recently also have a similar internal routing style?

[@hardtailparty]

You are right, it's very similar. The specialized is the first I've seen where it exits the main frame then re-enters the rear triangle. My banshee stays external for the front triangle, then it re-enters for the chainstay.

[@MichelleAWyant]

In picking between this bike vs the rockhopper expert 29, which one do you prefer? Which would be best for transitioning from road biking to mountain biking / trail riding? Thx!

[@hardtailparty]

Definitely this

[@MichelleAWyant]

Thank you!!

[@ericframe6313]

Just curious, why the love for hard tails, especially living in Sedona?

[@hardtailparty]

Cuz they're fun. I ride full squish too, but I love hardtails

[@ericframe6313]

hardtail party sounds like a good reason. Love the channel!

[@homarzantos7642]

Cuánto te costó la bicicleta?...

[@jerome8426]

Nice review, what are your thoughts about the Rocky Mountain growler 50, it seems like a nice bike but i want to hear your opinion on it.

[@hardtailparty]

I haven't ridden one yet. I hear it's a really harsh ride.

[@jerome8426]

@@hardtailparty ok good to hear thanks

[@OriginalSithMonkey]

Still learning all the lingo, etc. I just like to ride. But based on specs and parts is the 2020 a better buy than the 2019 fuse comp? And are the parts an upgrade or downgrade from last years model?

[@hardtailparty]

The frame is a huge upgrade in my mind. See my video on 5 tips to buying your next bike.

[@OriginalSithMonkey]

@@hardtailparty I didn't realize this was a 29. I have the 2019 27.5 few things bug me, might have to hit up your patreon and get some upgrade advice.

[@WrexBass]

Almost ordered one of these, I tried out the 27.5+ version and a Timberjack, wound up ordering the Timberjack.

[@johnlawrence4352]

Evan Perkins I too just bought a timber jack but am waiting for it to come in. The shop was out of the build I ended up deciding on.

[@johnromain1885]

I also have a timberjack. Great fun. I'm really excited for this review as my one complaint with the TJack is the seat tube length. I ride an XL and would really like a inch or two shorter seat tube. I'll buy a fuse frame if Steve can get through his ride without saying something like "this frame is so harsh, my 6 mile ride felt like I was mauled by a bear".

[@WrexBass]

I tested the Deore build but ordered the XT. Mostly needed to see how the frame felt

[@graemewhite8654]

Hi Steve, I know they’re more difficult to get in the US, but I’d love to hear your thoughts on Whyte bikes. The 900 series look on paper like your thing, and the UK press love them.

[@hardtailparty]

I've been trying to get one, but no love.