Specialized Epic vs Cannondale Scalpel | 2020 XC Bike SMACKDOWN

[@Stealthwealth1001]

Great concise review from an excellent rider who can explain the difference between both bikes and what their strengths and weaknesses are.

[@darrenhowson]

9BG euiu

[@raleighkellyc9375]

What of the rear flex stays

[@raleighkellyc9375]

Scaple is great bike but I'm concern about the flex stays

[@bikeste]

Great stuff. How about a comparison between the epic evo and scalpel SE? Thanks.

[@ronaldwestra8735]

Great review. Indeed it is up to your own riding style and preference. My choice would be the Cannondale. But I also love the Specialized. These two brands are really the top in XC mountain biking.

[@wadebrost7105]

I’m glad to see some dirt on these two. We need more reviews like this that show how good they are at shredding the trails, and how easy it is to yard sale on the trail.

[@bayerr12]

I'm choosing the Scalpel 😁

[@lbco5229]

Love the Cannondale because of the Ocho fork. Works great and is cool tech. Love the light weight overall and dropping e-bikes on climbs!

[@Svenmpa]

Love my Epic 2018, and when I get the money the parts will go on to a 2021 Epic frame.

[@klemenklemen9347]

Love my Epic 2006 :)

[@AJHillis]

Keeping in mind that my reason for buying an XC bike would be to spice up the local trails I'm too familiar with and find too easy on my trail bike, I'd take the Scalpel. I'm no racer so going fastest isn't my top concern. Fun is the goal, and the feeling on being right on the edge is probably more apparent on the Cannondale. Also, lighter!

[@mattiasandersson3444]

if that guy compared apples VS apples he should take the S-works instead. Only the S-works frame are 500 gram lighter than the worst specialized-frame. And the S-works wheel are 400 grams lighter than the lightest regular Specialized wheels. So no, Cannondale is not lighter.

[@spiral99able]

@@mattiasandersson3444 for the price

[@mateuscabrera]

Orbea, Specialized, Scott and Niner are much better than Cannondale

[@alanmartinezrodriguez884]

@@mateuscabrera Empty comment. Tell why.

[@jaymueller2418]

@@alanmartinezrodriguez884 Frame reliability.

[@g_4462]

Thumbs up, Tom! Nice to see that (in this case my) commentary on a previous BR video being taken into account and included in a follow up video about the 2021 Epic. In other words: great and above all welcome customer information that the NS Synonym is briefly mentioned this time as a progressive alternative to the 2021 Epic.

[@Kskdoru]

Scalpel looks realy badass...just got a F-SI with Ocho and it realy rocks

[@jaymueller2418]

Was on the precursor to the F-Si a few years ago, the F29. Absolute ripper. Loved it.

[@allanmyhre]

Up until today I had my 2018 Epic and my new Scalpel 2 2021. I love them both but the Scalpel is just more fun to ride. Both fantastic bikes! Get one!

[@jaymueller2418]

I’ve also raced on both. Scalpel is definitely more fun.

[@Bread_Garlichouse]

I really only like Dale and S works XC bikes. They are always the sexiest.

[@neilk22]

I still own the 2016 sworks epic with the inverted rs-1 fork. The fork is hardly ever in need of service, super smooth which are attributes I don’t normally associate with rock shox forks. As far as bike goes, it’s still very relevant, but the new epic is definitely got my attention for an upgrade.

[@billw6903]

I have the Era sworks same fork. Love it. But how many years more on a 16 bought in 17? 2 or 3? I am looking a 21 scalpel for more comfort

[@murilomiranda8009]

Excellent video! For marathon and stage races, where the terrain is less technical, considering the brain not always open on small bumps, do you think the scalpel would be more compliant? I mean, at the end of the day, in which one you would feel less tired after a long ride? Thanks

[@caperider1160]

What we really want is short and solid answer. Get 2 pro riders and 2 seasoned amateurs and two very different XC circuits. Let all of them ride each bike on each trail and time their laps. Then you comment on the result for 19 minutes!

[@TheDavidjakeson]

Epic Evo or Scalpel SE. The XC race bikes for the majority of us who don't race XCO World Cups.

[@rileycorke8751]

Would love to see the Trek Supercaliber on here!

[@TomMarvin1]

I've been promised one in mid-october... 🤞

[@macdaddy1617]

Where I live the guys who race have them (Trek)and all I see in STRAVA is PRs & Crowns! 👊🏻

[@Konzuug]

This is literally the video I needed. I just created an excel sheet to compare the Scott scale Cannondale F-Sí, Canyon Exceed, and Specialized Epic. What other bike should I look at? Currently thinking of spending around 2700-3000 Euros. Also looking into xc fullies

[@TomMarvin1]

I'd definitely look at the BMC TwoStroke too - looks rad for an XC hardtail..! www.bikeradar.com/news/bmc-twostroke/

[@oscarstrange3094]

The exceed has the best spec for the money, I would highly consider that one

[@TheJango997]

At this price point you could also look at XC fully Kross Earth (3.0 or 4.0). It is not a big name brand, so you get a good value for the price and the bikes are World cup proven, so should still be good.

[@mattiasandersson3444]

@@oscarstrange3094 Canyon LUX are both lighter and newer.

[@anujkalmane7015]

Currently own a Sworks epic fully, but raced a canyons exceed for 3 years and I can’t recommend it enough. It’s amazing! Mine too was more of a mid spec bike coming in at 2500 euros. So it’s a great bike.

[@lindonandlisa8114]

I think you've made my choice of bike even harder out of those two and man you looking so fit

[@herceg81]

Scalpel all the way .

[@mikkyochimp]

Over the epic?

[@Fred_the_1996]

@@mikkyochimp h

[@TC-hl1ws]

Please review the Specialized Epic vs the Epic Evo next.

[@Foster_B]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/m5fYaqOEnp5gpqM

[@bradywhite520]

I just got that same model of the scalpel, and it rides pretty well compared to my previous giant anthem. Its a very smooth and efficient ride, but it doesn't get as rowdy on the downhills. fork is really impressive, but there is some clankyness on the shock

[@spiral99able]

bushings are wrong size, chek em, Cannondale should replace under warranty.

[@LRS7B]

keepinitreal 11 I’ve also heard about this bushing issue. He should look to get Cannondale to correct this (and possibly something small in compensation)

[@dthompson9355]

I am 70 years old and still ride technical stuff. But I really need a dropper post. Can you add a dropper to either bike?

[@billw6903]

Yes

[@michaeljacobs8449]

A clean bike is a bike that's not used ;-)

[@scottldpt]

Great review! Exactly what I wanted to hear.

[@keithhannigan8507]

Love if you would do a sister video of Scott Spark against Canyon Exceed!!!

[@epbakker9332]

Scalpel is Top

[@DeitzGlobal]

Scalpel Thanks!!!

[@Konzuug]

Is a xc hardtail worth buying when I just bought a new gravel bike? Currently riding a Ritchey Outback with nice GRX 2x.

[@Skooteh]

Depends on how much money you have, what other bikes you have, and what trails you ride. Random peoples on the internet (like myself) do not have any of that info.

[@robbymccool7213]

N+1 rule

[@dylananderson4314]

Coming from someone who owns both, no

[@Konzuug]

@@Skooteh I have my gravel bike, a canyon endurance, and an old fully that is not worth upgrading anymore. I think an xc fully would be best but shelling out 4k for a scott spark rc is rough.

[@Skooteh]

@@Konzuug Maybe going even further from the capabilities of your existing bikes is worthwhile. Should you get an enduro or downhill bike? Maybe a Triathalon bike or track bike? I don't have the answer for you. I do personally like my XC singlespeed. Masochism is fun!

[@jrk543]

Since 2 months I have a new Scalpel ultimate. I can’t say anything else than that’s a perfect machine. In comparison to other racers i don’t have the greatest skills but this bikes helps a lot. It feels stable and even on high speeds it’s stable. It feels I am in controle every moment of the ride. The bike is okay for every sort of riding, Passing e bikes on the fire road climbs dropping enduro bikes in the decent. The thing I had a problem with in the beginning was finding the right set up because the seat post is very far forward. We pushed the saddle back very far so my wait was more in the middle of the bike. Swapped the tires for some Maxxis Aspen 2.25 tires. ( the new Scalpel models do have a lefty ocho 2.0 with the push to lock lockout and a lever to release the brake caliper ) question? Please ask

[@bobbybrandnew3277]

How tall are you man and what size did you get. Thank you

[@cristovaomorgado]

I own a Specialized Epic Expert 2018. I've added a dropper post and it's an amazing bike... never I've rolled with such confidence... and even in trail territory. Now I've read and heard that the jump to the 2020 is not that big so I'll hang to it a couple of years more. The only nag is the cronic problem for the 18/19/20 brain that fails A LOT. Just hope the 21 as that fixed!

[@javari]

A rep told me yes, they redesigned it to be much more robust and not fail.

[@JJMilk]

Nice and detailed review. Super!!

[@Rzagski]

I have a 2013 Scalpel 1 and my wifey has a 2015 epic comp wc. I like the uniqueness of the lefty ( has been a super durable ride for the abuse I put it through) and I bet with the new geometry it will feel a lot more slack than the 2013. Tough choice for sure and thanks for the review.

[@kuyajayyoutubechannel6327]

Sir can u help me answer my question I have 29er bike using deore xt groupset 12 speed but now I change my chain because it was broken so my new chain is 116 links shimano xtr cn- m9100 so it is safe to use this chain on my deore xt 12 speed my crank is 34 teeth?

[@Chompaworld]

Awesome review, maybe do one including the scott spark RC top spec?

[@raleighkellyc9375]

Hey cannondalé how long or how many yes do the rear flex stays last I'm very concern that they will eventually fail .Cannondale has very weak history with customers.an part /bike replacement

[@msagoo29]

You get a lifetime warranty on the frame so I'd think they have full faith in their product unlike say Scott or Canyon with limited warranty of 5 years or so

[@Pesmog]

Personally, I am not keen on these ever slacker head angles apart from on downhill bikes. Unless a major part of your ride is steep downhill, they are a bit of a liability. When I want to do a 40 mile cross country ride I very much prefer a 68-69 angle than a 66-67 as they steer so much better. Its starting to get difficult to find XC bikes with non slack head angles although Canyon And Giant sem to have stuck with tthem for now.........

[@Rzagski]

Pesmog - nice comment. Slacker do make for a nice ride down hill. However, I’m 6’4” (1,93m) and turning a long bike around sharp hairpins can get hairy. Sometimes I run out of room. Taller head angles seem to decrease the length of the bike.

[@firdausamin7382]

What is the stand over height?

[@JoostvanUlden]

I broke two Epic’s in one season. Took Specialized 6 months to get me replacement the second time.

[@jaymueller2418]

If it makes you feel any better when the Scalpel first came out my team broke all of ours.

[@isaiaslozada9502]

Im thinking on buying a hardtail im between the scott scale or specialized epic ht 2020 wich one should i get?

[@scott907]

Will you look at evo version?

[@feizalmoolla1946]

Both good bikes and having ridden both brands extensively does not help...would not be disappointed with either but slight preference for Cannondale on account of its latent athleticism

[@JoeySanchez1575]

First of all congratulations for this awesome review. I’m really undecided between the two. Does the Epic have a harsh ride compared to Scalpel?

[@ps3narciso]

i tested both, the sworks version and the scalpel carbon 2. i agree that one it’s 12k€ and the scalpel 5.5k but it was enough to understand the nature of the bikes. for my style of riding i felt the opposite of what bike radar says. the scalpel it’s the more confy and relaxed and with the epic you are always on the edge and the ride it’s harsh. beside you have to play with the brain fade until you find the setting that suits you better. overall i liked the scalpel more but i think i will buy the epic for personal reasons

[@JoeySanchez1575]

@@ps3narciso Thanks so much fpr yor feedback. Did you have the chance to test Trek Supercaliper? if yes how do you compare it to Epic and Scalpel?

[@ps3narciso]

@@JoeySanchez1575 no just the top fuel but it’s more trail than xc

[@MrFrescocotone]

@@ps3narciso you like the Scalpel more but you buy the Epic? Makes no sense

[@ps3narciso]

@@MrFrescocotone i bought the epic evo . now it makes more sense? 😄

[@raykleiner3151]

The Scalpel does it for me. I like twitchiness, it means I'm more in touch with the terrain. I suspect the Scalpel is also faster.

[@raleighkellyc9375]

Yeah very true but what about the flex stays

[@BurtsCram]

iv got the Scalpel Hi-MOD Ultimate but did prior testing for a week on the specialized s-works for my taste Scalpel did it in the end im super happy and i like the twitchiness its great

[@pkstpr78]

How does the Canyon LUX compare? Trying to decide between a Canyon LUX SL 8.0 or Sepcialized Epic EVO.

[@EpicEvolution]

They have way too different geometry. Lux looks like old school bike nowadays. It would be interesting to see next generation, but i don't know when

[@wallyklejka5754]

What about Trek Supercaliber?

[@surfinwaves4769]

Wally Klejka yes please review it!

[@paule5473]

@BikeRadar Tom, what is your height and how did you feel on each bike, both sized L?

[@TomMarvin1]

Hey Paul, I'm 182cm. Neither felt cramped, nor too tall, though the extra length of the epic was slightly noticeable - some of that may also come down to its slacker angles, as the bike certainly rides like a 'bigger' bike.

[@paule5473]

@@TomMarvin1 thanks a lot for sharing! Myself also considering these two but curious if Canyon will respond soon))

[@TomMarvin1]

@Paul Smith I'd definitely go XL yeah, to get the reach 👍

[@ericpmoss]

I would love to see a Frankenbike experiment with a Lefty Ocho on the competition's frames (geometry allowing).

[@mtnbikerva1]

If 1 fork leg is better than 2, then why do we not see them in GNCC racing, WORCS, motocross, supercross, tough enduro, arena cross, enduro cross...?

[@juliussolon4356]

Of course the one & only Cannondale Scalpel! :)

[@GC-uq2pd]

I wasnt expecting that comparison, but I really appreciate it ! I am saving money for one of these bikes :) Yet about the review, I am a bit disappointed: if I want to know about geometry specificstions or how the brain works, I will go to the dedicated video of the bike. I dont need an "in theory" explanation of the impact of head angle or brain activation, etc. What I am looking for is what are the key elements that differs for the same price tag (e.g. if difference in groupset, wheel or build quality and finition), how you test them (how many months, type of rides, terrain, races ?, ...) and particularly how they feel. Actually, I care particularly on how they feel going uphill, downhill, technical section, maintenance. I believed thats where your added value of experienced bikers with many bikes and with these two bikes is, and thats a type of i formation I cant get myself just looking on the manufacturers website and comparing. Not saying you didnt speak about that, just that i prefer 15min of "ride feeling" rather than "in theory" spec review. Only my opinion by the way, you can trash it if you want :)

[@GC-uq2pd]

(I actually start appreciating the video after 9minutes in)

[@TomMarvin1]

@@GC-uq2pd thanks for the feedback - I do appreciate where you're coming from! Maybe in the future I will try to add some more context when talking about the facts and figures of the bike 👌

[@GC-uq2pd]

@@TomMarvin1 thanks for the reply :) and again, that's only my personal opinion ! Actually at 11min you realize you spoke a lot about the specs and apologize xD The review is great otherwise :)

[@lbco5229]

Pretty demanding for something you got for free.

[@joakim4243]

How tall are you? Was L the correct size for you?

[@karvinsunny4199]

Out of topic, but am I seeing Tom losing some weight? You are looking pretty good!

[@DMVMTB]

I have the 2019 epic and I love it 🤘🏼

[@JoeySanchez1575]

Amazing review. Looking for a XCO Race bike, like both Scalpel and Epic but didn’t have the chance to test them. Did the Scalpel suspension platform feels efficient? Does it need to use the lockout frequently? Does the Epic have a harsh ride due to the suspension platform? Regards

[@dtrracing5233]

I currently ride a scalpel and I had a 2018 epic before this. And this is really mostly a personal preference but I’ll give it to you with as little bias as I can. The scalpel for me at least needs the lockout to be efficient. Im a XC racer so that’s crucial. I definitely liked not having to worry about that with the epic. But the epic does have a bit of a harsher ride. But nothing off the charts. Especially if you mess with the brain setting you can completely tune the ride feel. Overall the scalpel requires a bit more thought to be efficient and the Epic requires less so. Overall great bikes and you really can’t go wrong

[@JoeySanchez1575]

Thanks so mucho for this feedback, very much appreciated. Have the chance to test Trek Supercaliber?

[@Fred_the_1996]

@@JoeySanchez1575 i like the scalpel for XCM

[@simonscheibel]

Great comparison video!! Would be great with a video of the two most winning bikes: Canyon Lux and Scott Spark.

[@massimomusto1975]

Scalpel wins! Xc bikes must be reactive and feel the edge.

[@guyd4067]

Neither. But I would, and I have, bought the Scalpel SE.

[@jaymueller2418]

Great rig. I hope you enjoy it.

[@magoo308]

Already bought the Epic😁

[@paoloajero]

Epic Vs Epic EVO review please

[@nl3712]

Yes!

[@gtom84]

Nice bikes however if I had to choose again I would still go with Scott Spark. Single design from 2016-2019 and still amongst the top.

[@martin.B777]

Buy both, problem fixed!🤑

[@gianlucabattistellomarches2602]

And what about epic evo vs scalpel se?!?!

[@matthewbenger8355]

Fucking hell, lockdown has been good for Tom. Looks ripped.

[@aleroxit]

Cannondale FTW Evey Day!

[@Brault08]

start by putting on the same tyres on both bikes, it's such an important aspect and it has nothing to do with the quality of the bikes... just a simple fix to have a fair head-to-head

[@edwarddruitt7521]

I think you are right at this price. I dont think anyone dropping £6,000 - £7,000 pounds on an XC bike is hoing to be too worries about the extra handful of £'s to put their tires of choice on if they dont like the stock ones. Arguably could be a different case when reviewing cheaper bikes.

[@ericpmoss]

Totally agreed -- no matter the stock choice, I doubt that it is right for more than one trail condition.

[@RB_AdVANtures]

I owned a 2019 Scalpel and a 2018 Epic back to back. Very similar components on each. Just considering the ride that each provides, I would say the Scalpel does a nicer job of absorbing smaller bumps and is a bit more of a softer ride. Suspension lockouts help tighten up the ride, but I found it not as predictable on the larger obstacles (rock gardens, uphill logs and step ups). The Epic feels tighter and quicker in virtually all conditions. The Brain has a different feel and you do have to accept the ‘clunk’, but I found it to be better in rough conditions while being fast on the less technical stretches. I agree with the reviewer that not being able to adjust the rear on the fly is a bit of a negative, but honestly, if you set it right for how you prefer it to be active, it really shouldn’t be a showstopper. I settled on the Epic.

[@murilomarques3879]

Scalpel is the best! 🤘🏻

[@simonarends7802]

I'm scared of the brain on jumps, and I have heard from a lot of other guys they are too. Like when you hit the lip of a jump, is it going to open or stay closed...

[@jaymueller2418]

Never had an issue with that.

[@Mr.ZiggedWhenHeShouldaZagged]

The Scalpel is scalpel sharp and the Epic is epic.. those descriptions are kinda.. specialized.. don't ya think? haha

[@154335]

I bought the new epic 2021 13 months ago, after two months oozing oil from the brain tube, 2 weeks without a bike while on vacation ... after another 10 months same problem in the top of the tube ... a real shit

[@LRS7B]

It’s not even close for me.. The *Cannondale Scalpel* every time

[@owenbirch6188]

Why would you not use a dropper 😔

[@Montblanc1986]

For many it comes down to bike shop support and availability. I have a choice of S T and C and I choose Specialized for the product and good dealer support. I hear cannondale doesn't warranty anything

[@nl3712]

Agreed. I’ve always had great support from my local spez shop. Not faultless but at least they TRY sort problems out.

[@2easy518]

Good video, i like more specialized the way looks, i have my doubts i been see many comments specialized owners broke the bike super easy, if i will pay $6k in the bike i will scare to buy specialized

[@tarpontime7562]

I just wonder how they abused the bikes for them to break. These are XC bikes not down hill bikes. There built for speed and easy handling. Not sending them off 6ft cliffs. I’m on my 2nd epic and never had a problem with the brain suspension or frame

[@scotth3354]

Why prattle on about seat tube angle? As long as you haven’t run out of saddle rail, a degree or two of seat tube angle is meaningless. Seat tube angles only define saddle placement at the extremes.

[@spiral99able]

Very true,.>

[@charlesmcgrory3078]

Scalpel every time ❤

[@caperider1160]

One should ideally own both bikes

[@v0ldy54]

Dunno what happened to Cannondale graphics team but the new Scalps are all so ugly! The green one and the absolute top spec are the only without ugly colours, but they definitely don't shine in the aesthetic department...

[@R0bstez]

Could not agree more

[@raycoxphoto]

Dale 😛

[@tomturney7131]

I like the Scalpel

[@rickylawrence3171]

let the heart decide.

[@sherwin3williams]

I will choose the scalpel

[@hmudesign]

I thought you were going to tell you which one you'd by with your hard earned money?

[@johnykryll]

When I'm struggling to pay my fuel bills and food and everything else has sky rocketed this video is a welcome relief. Maybe I'll win a scratchcard and win £7000

[@dulcetnature6187]

Cool 😎

[@JJMilk]

Epic!! 🤩

[@jmard24]

these bikes are not for the majority of viewers. xc race bikes are for high level racing at the pro level. id pick neither one of the. The epic evo is probably the best choice for the majority of xc riders.

[@frohrers281]

Epic

[@jevgeniardassov]

Would not buy neither, two much proprietary stuff, upgrading will be hard.

[@jamie-kd9tx]

cannondale engineers could beat usain bolt in a sprint if you told them there were useless new standards that they wont stick to at the end (not talking about lefty, i do like lefty)

[@xx-----------xx873]

The head shock for example; while I do agree that for the 20mm of travel it has was the plushest, no-one needed it or wanted it.

[@jamie-kd9tx]

@@xx-----------xx873 or ai rear ends, yeah its theoretically better but to replace the rear wheel become a massive job

[@nl3712]

Proprietary standards...blechhhhh! Even Spez has standard rear sus / yokes these days.

[@nocturnal_walker]

epic evo

[@nl3712]

Agreed!

[@colecaldwell1904]

The epic all the way

[@giuseppepennisi8699]

The scalpel should be half the price because you only get half a bike.

[@downallyourstreets]

Man, the Scalpel is the Rad XC bike in every way, The Epic is more... yawn.

[@kiarashsiahkamari7968]

scalpel

[@LoneOakWoodworks]

Just say no to crotch cam....no, seriously...way too much crotch cam...

[@ramonperez9749]

what!!!! obviously playing it safe for the not getting the big bike giants offended, on what he prefers omg!!!

[@TomMarvin1]

Nah, genuinely like them both - both good at different things - I'd happily have either, but on balance I think the epic just about pips it.

[@prestonthomas5399]

Agree you get one to take home which is it? Man up

[@carolcook5330]

Specialized Epic i love it

[@bikegrantour9329]

scalpel forever

[@TnT360_MACCOtv]

I'm as talented as Avancini so...You Know.