RAW: Stumpjumper Evo Live First Impressions | Part 1

[@ryanroe7]

Great review! I lucked out and got a 2021 s4 stumpy evo before they sold out and it is blowing me away as well. I’m also 6ft, and the S4 definitely feels long, but it adds to the confidence on techy downhills. I was coming off a large 2013 stumpjumper (my first full suspension bike) and this is obviously on another level. I’m in the front range and it handles apex, white ranch and deer creek perfectly. I will have to try this trail soon!

[@TJonesMTB]

That’s a major upgrade! We got lucky with getting one. Hear they’re backordered for a long time. Cheers!

[@radagascar1]

I'm about 6'1 but have the reach of 6'4 person, so I've debated on s3 or s4 when they're back in stock. I don't love the idea of a bike this long on the front range but who knows

[@TJonesMTB]

@@radagascar1 so you’re a bit taller than me, I’d probably go S4. Tough call though. If you’re on the front range (assuming CO), maybe one of the bigger shops would have demos or at least a bike you can look at. Cheers!

[@angieshy5502]

AMAZING VIDEO!!! WELL DONE AND THSNKS FOR THE RIDE!!!

[@iykoniko6390]

Just rode mine yesterday for the first time and it was a dream coming from a 2016 Camber Comp. Had the trail for lunch.

[@TJonesMTB]

Right? So sick!

[@OneTradeMan]

Good to hear sizing down is ok, great vid!

[@TJonesMTB]

Yup, even at 6’ I’m loving the S3

[@troutntrails]

I’m trying to decide between this bike and the Stumpjumper expert which might be closer to my current XC bike.

[@TJonesMTB]

So my dad just got the standard Expert Stumpjumper and I’m hoping to get out for a test ride while visiting. If I’m able to, I’ll hopefully get a video made. I can say after getting to see the bike in person last night for the first time, it is very nice but surprisingly different from the Evo. Hoping to get some time on it and if so, I’ll let you know my thoughts! Cheers

[@kentao4]

@@TJonesMTB did you ever get some time on it? I can’t decide! Haha

[@TJonesMTB]

@@kentao4 I did! I have a video on my channel comparing the two! Very different bikes! I still have my Evo, now with a 170mm fork and upgraded front and rear suspension. I am also in the process of finishing building up a Stumpjumper. At this point, I almost feel it would have removed some confusion by naming the bikes differently. Them sharing the Stumpjumper name is confusing because of how different they are. Think Stumpjumper: all-mountain/trail. Think Evo: big mountain/enduro. Then honestly determine which category you are in and go from there. I think that really simplifies the choice. Hopefully that helps! Cheers

[@michalwiktorow2188]

What is your opinion, if someone has an 120/120 downcountry bike like Scalpel SE 2 - is there a point to have a bigger bike like evo - if there is not much trails that would benefit the bigger suspension? I am considering evo (alloy) to 'trash it around' and for 'fun stuff', rather than long rides, therefore no carbon choice. I love how scalpel back end complies and how good and efficient this bike is. Maybe I am just 'jumping on the marketing bandwagon' regarding 'bigger longer slacker'? I dunno...

[@TJonesMTB]

Hey there, Big bikes ride very differently than short travel bikes and are fun in there own way! I generally live on my short travel XC bike, but love having a bike like the Evo in the quiver for days that it is appropriate. They are incredible in the right terrain, and make riding more enjoyable in said terrain. However, if you don’t have the “right” terrain available, then a bigger bike might be an underwhelming experience if you enjoy efficient bikes. Every time I choose to take the Evo out it’s because of the trails that I am going to ride, and I always end up saying multiple times “this bike is too good. Bikes shouldnt be this good”. However, I am fortunate and have a variety of bikes to choose from. Based on where I live, the Evo would not be the bike I would pick if I could only have one. That said, if you enjoy your current ride and aren’t occasionally riding more “gnarly” terrain, then adding a bigger bike may not be necessary. If you’re occasionally riding terrain that overwhelms your scalpel, then it’s probably worth adding a big bike to the quiver. I will say that descending on a bigger bike will change how you view the capabilities of smaller bikes, which may not always be a good thing. You don’t know what you don’t know, which, in this case, is how much better long travel bikes handle long travel terrain. Small bikes are incredibly capable, but once you ride a big bike, you’ll see the difference. Hopefully that helps somewhat. Big bikes are great, but sometimes they are too big for the terrain. Same goes for little bikes sometimes being too small for the terrain. If possible, take a big bike out on a few demo rides. That will give you a pretty clear answer to your question. Cheers

[@BMfins]

Specialized hit it out of the park with this one.

[@TJonesMTB]

From my experience so far, I fully agree!

[@michaelt1111]

Loved your video can you do a video on the 2021 stumpjumper comp alloy

[@TJonesMTB]

I probably won’t have access to the comp alloy specifically but my local shop said they’re going to have a demo stumpjumper in the Spring. I’ll do my best then to snag it and do a short term review and comparison to my EVO. Couple months out but check back! Cheers

[@michaelt1111]

@@TJonesMTB I just picked mine up a few days ago love it so far

[@TJonesMTB]

@@michaelt1111 sounds like you should be doing the review then! Glad you’re loving it. Enjoy the new whip!

[@michaelt1111]

@@TJonesMTB you ride way better tho

[@TJonesMTB]

@@michaelt1111 haha thanks. Lots of practice. Cheers

[@bradlaakso8431]

Looks like you're going to break the seat tube with that much exposed seatpost... I'm 5'6" and ride an S3 setup mullet, feels great. S2 felt insanely cramped in the seated position. If that bike works for you great but holy crap it must feel like a bmx bike.

[@kentao4]

Any input for just one bike? Basically is the regular stumpy burly enough or does the Evo pedal and climb well vs previous gens? I’m 6ft 2” about 220 but need the best all around. I’m in pa so something good for all types of trails and the occasional park day.

[@TJonesMTB]

They’re both great 1 bike quiver machines. It really depends on your home terrain. Personally, I’d probably go standard Stumpjumper for a one bike quiver. But if you live somewhere super gnarly with regular bigger hits, then the Evo will be a better choice. The Evo definitely pedals better than the prior generation Stumpjumper, but the new standard Stumpjumper pedals quite a bit better than the Evo. You could also run a standard Stumpjumper and install a 150 fork and burlier rear shock and really have an all-mountain killer! Really just have to honestly evaluate your home terrain and go from there. Cheers

[@kentao4]

@@TJonesMTB thanks. I think you’re right but the Evo they have in stock looks so killer lol. Dumb reason but man I hate the color choices on the regular for this year!

[@kentao4]

I had the 19 stumpy and I hated pedaling - until it was about to sell. Went to epic Evo and it’s too light. Trying to find the best balance

[@TJonesMTB]

@@kentao4 I’ve heard multiple people say that about the color! If you are coming from an Epic Evo, then a standard Stumpjumper will probably feel great. The Stumpy Evo will feel like a sofa monster truck compared to the Epic Evo. Standard Stumpjumper is probably your sweet spot. I think that will be the best bike for you based on what I’ve heard!

[@kentao4]

@@TJonesMTB yea I just have to accept it. Haha. I want raw carbon or flat black! My choices are shiny white or that doppio brown 😩

[@JR497]

What state and shop did you get this bike from!? All my LBS say they are out of stock till 2022 models come out! And they didn’t even get any!

[@TJonesMTB]

I’m in CO. My local shop didn’t get any either aside from mine and yesterday told me that there won’t be any Evos or standard stumpys until Spring, but there should be good inventory then. I’d call The Trail House in Santa Rosa, CA and see if they have any or maybe try a bigger chain like Mikes Bikes in CA. Cheers

[@romanmorales515]

Hey what's your camera setup? I have hero 8 and just wanted to know if chest mounted is the way to go. Have you tried head/chin mounted?

[@TJonesMTB]

Hi for this video I’m running a GoPro Hero 7, 2k 60fps 4:3 ratio mounted to a gimbal on chest. For audio I’m using an external mic clipped to shirt collar and then matching it up in post production. I have tried helmet and I’ve found that it works fairly well but stabilized footage just looks better. Also I don’t personally love riding with the camera on my head as it makes my helmet feel like it wants to move around which can impact my prescription glasses. I think chin and helmet mount would be more successful on a full face helmet setup. Cheers

[@romanmorales515]

@@TJonesMTB thank you!

[@petera4705]

Great Video, what were you using to get this footage?

[@TJonesMTB]

GoPro Hero 7 (2k 4:3 60fps) on a Karma Grip and an external mic

[@DavidFoundCo]

Hey Tyler, do you ever come out to the front range to do any of the black diamond trails? I’m looking at this bike and wanna know if it’s a good fit for this area. Thx

[@TJonesMTB]

Hey David, I actually live on the front range now (south) and still find that the bike is a good fit for the trails I’ve ridden. I haven’t ridden Boulder or Golden though. I think the Evo is a pretty good fit regardless of where you are if it falls into the travel range that you are looking for. Hopefully that helps a bit. Cheers!

[@DavidFoundCo]

@@TJonesMTB I used to have a specialized status 140 (the mullet bike) and I loved the way it descended but climbing on it was brutal with tons of bob. I currently own a Marin alpine trail but it doesn’t descend like that status

[@DavidFoundCo]

@@TJonesMTB Looking for something in between those two, it’s hard to say without demoing one haha

[@TJonesMTB]

@@DavidFoundCo i think there is a Specialized test center in Boulder. They might have a bike you can try. I’ve personally been digging the standard Stumpjumper as my go-to rig for most rides. The Evo has become my rig for when it’s extra burly, otherwise I stick with the Stumpjumper, which climbs significantly better. Both are great bikes though!

[@iantaylor8190]

When you say on the limit of a 150mm dropper for your 6 foot height: are you say the seat post is slammed and at full extension you can just peddle.. I'm not sure what you mean please

[@TJonesMTB]

I have the post essentially at it’s highest possible point. The limit line on the post is just inside the frame. So if I change it, I’ll go to a 175 or 200 so that I can have more seat tube in the frame, but I likely won’t change it. Hopefully that makes sense. Let me know if you have more questions!

[@iantaylor8190]

@@TJonesMTB ah okay. Cheers. Sounds like for your extended leg length you can take a bigger dropper. Makes sense

[@TJonesMTB]

@@iantaylor8190 exactly!

[@iantaylor8190]

@@TJonesMTB hey Tyler. What brand 150 post do you have and do you know the max insertion length for the S3 please

[@TJonesMTB]

@@iantaylor8190 it’s the stock x-fusion manic and I do not know those numbers off the top of my head. You might be able to find that info on either the X-Fusion website or Specialized site. Cheers

[@Gdownification]

Nice video! I appreciate the on trail review, especially since the only vids out right now are from Specialized or magazines. Out of curiosity, why did you go with the S3 vs the S4? I’m 6ft even and I’m looking hard at the Stumpy Evo. Also, what do you think about the handling? Is it playful, and does it pop off roots/rocks well?

[@TJonesMTB]

So I spent a lot of time looking at the geo chart and numbers of the new Evo against the prior generation Stumpy ST(bike I previously owned). Current trends and marketing say bikes need to be longer and lower and so on. That said, Ive tried a few modern bikes that just feel incredibly long for how I ride. The S3 number-wise is very close to the size Large of the prior ST. I know they’re different bikes for different purposes but for me I knew I didn’t want a bike much longer than my old one. Regarding handling, I’ve gotten a few more rides on the bike since the video and absolutely love it. With the S3 size I can quickly and easily redirect the bike and move it around on the trail as needed. The suspension keeps the bike feeling super planted and stable. I’m happy with how “poppy” the bike feels given how little time I have spent playing with the suspension. All that said, I’m satisfied with my decision to go S3. (I do live in an area with relatively tight trails)

[@Whitehawkvisionfilms]

@@TJonesMTB I was going to ask the same thing as I am 6' and leaning toward the S5, but your rationale makes since for you, People always ask me about size and my first question is where and how are you riding... not how tall are you. Shred On Bro!

[@TJonesMTB]

@@Whitehawkvisionfilms thanks! Sizing can be tough! So many variables. I am still enjoying the S3, across all terrains! Cheers!

[@Yohanyothan]

You’ve sold me on the Evo. Don’t think I can quite afford the Gucci model, but the base comp will do fine. One left in stock in my state... also, where in CO is this trail system?

[@TJonesMTB]

The base model will be sweet! Let me know how you like it! These trails are near Beaver Creek ski resort

[@jquack67]

What computer is that on your top tube?

[@TJonesMTB]

It is a Garmin Edge 25 from many years ago. I don’t think they make it anymore. Currently the 130 looks to be the smallest Garmin option. Cheers

[@bfranco1519]

It actual weighs 32lbs. verified on a scale for the same size and build

[@TJonesMTB]

What’d I say? 31? That setup tubeless and empty? It was so long ago I don’t remember the situation. Thanks for your verification

[@crisplife3]

I need this bike in my life!

[@TJonesMTB]

Everybody does! Cheers!

[@cs.adventures]

How tall are you and what size is bike?

[@TJonesMTB]

Hey there, I’m 5’11.5”/6’ and am riding an S3. A rider at my height should be comfortable anywhere from an S3-S5. I prefer smaller bikes, so I went S3. Cheers

[@likeris2]

how this campares with bronson or hightower?

[@TJonesMTB]

It’s hard to say since I haven’t gotten to ride either of those bikes. The Hightower is more of an all mountain bike, although they are close in travel now. Bronson is strictly 27.5” wheels so it’s going to have completely different characteristics than the Evo. The one thing the Evo has going over most other bikes right now is flexibility in terms of adjustability. You can change so many things on it to really fine tune it to your needs. Santa Cruz also runs a completely different suspension platform so that is also a massive factor. Sorry I can’t really give you any insight!

[@likeris2]

@@TJonesMTB just tell me what your personal pick?

[@TJonesMTB]

@@likeris2 haha well I pick the Evo, hence why I own it. I’m stoked on this bike. It climbs well, descends amazing, and is super adjustable.

[@likeris2]

@@TJonesMTB thank you so much

[@TJonesMTB]

@@likeris2 you’re welcome! They’re all going to be good options, but I’m biased to the Evo since I bought it. Cheers

[@bungeegums]

What size did you get? And your height?

[@TJonesMTB]

I’m 6’ and opted for the S3

[@bungeegums]

@@TJonesMTB oh I see. I’m planning to get the same bike. I was thinking of getting s4. I’m 5’10 btw

[@TJonesMTB]

@@bungeegums just depends where you ride and what your terrain is like. Also what you’re used to and prefer for your style of riding. For me, S3 is dialed sizing. A lot of people would argue it’s too small but oh well, I love it

[@bungeegums]

@@TJonesMTB I tried s4 at bike shop today. It looks big on me. And they have s3 as well. S3 seems the perfect size for me but the people who works there told me I’m s4.

[@TJonesMTB]

@@bungeegums the guys at my shop said S4 for me and I’m still loving the S3, so I’d say go with what YOU believe is right. You’re the one who is riding it and know what kind of trails regularly ride. Hopefully you enjoy whichever you pick! Cheers

[@shamrock4840]

Still have ?

[@TJonesMTB]

I do! Still a great bike!

[@basvw91]

Watching this realizes me, I’m born in the wrong continent

[@TJonesMTB]

Nah you can find good riding on every continent! Haha cheers

[@basvw91]

Then I would say, welcome to the Netherlands 🇳🇱

[@TJonesMTB]

@@basvw91 beautiful place to ride a bike! Maybe not a mtb though. But your neighbors have some good stuff!

[@GregBarfuss]

That is no trail bike, more like an all mountain bike/ enduro.

[@youngstadan4999]

Nah its a trail bike stumpjumpers are trail bikes, it's the way its going. The enduros have what wad dh travel not that long ago. But yea trail ridings got narly