Specialized Fuse Review: The 2020 Specialized Fuse Comp 29 - Hardtail Party

In this episode we review the 2020 Specialized Fuse Comp. Do the new updates to this bike translate to a different riding experience? Who is this bike for? What would I change? Did you learn something valuable? If so, show your appreciation and support this channel by becoming a Patron today: / hardtailparty
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[@craigmiller9478]

The video the people have been asking for! Cool to see the Comp build out ripping. I like that you admit that most riders don't need the highest spec to enjoy a bike. Well done, bro.

[@karterdavid657]

Instablaster

[@cameronlesley2428]

Thanks for this bike review. I’ve been waiting for ages for someone to do a review, and you did great even handed unbiased review.

[@hardtailparty]

Do you need help deciding which bike to purchase next? I offer a one-on-one bike consultation service through patreon. It's how I put food on the table for my family, and how I'm able to provide custom bike advice for my vieewrs. Become a patron today for access: sign up for the monthly bike consultation tier, and cancel at any time. Most people sign up for a month or two, and we work together to discuss their needs, riding style, etc. to narrow down the list of all the great hardtails out there. When they get the info they need and they no longer have any questions, they cancel. Become a patron today: patreon.com/hardtailparty. Also, make sure you check out my links in the description above for coupon codes and discounts to some of my partners. A few notes. 1) Unfortunately i can't recommend absolute bikes anymore. Their service has gone downhill and they treat the locals rude. 2) a lot of people love to hate on the sx drivetrain. While I can't speak to its longevity, it felt flawless to me. I can feel the difference between a gx shifter and the sx shifter, bit the derailleur would be hard to tell the difference. It's a great budget groupset. 3) these are almost sold out everywhere. So if you want one, you're going to have to get creative. 4) this shares the same frame as the fuse expert. Only difference are components. 5) a lot of people are hating on the RockShox 35 that comes on the expert. A few of those forks were manufactured with incorrect tolerances. If yours has unnecessary striction, talk to your dealer and get it checked out. 6) if you have one of these bikes and you hate the fork and brakes and want to sell them, hit me up. I'm always looking for more brakes and forks for my builds.

[@AydinProductionsLtd]

Will sell you forks if you want once I get my Fox 34. Hit me up

[@michaelkroleski]

Just a heads up, NX cassette, sx everything else for drivetrain. Great review!

[@gsbionicleboy]

Rockshox has a setup guide app/site where u put the serial number of your fork in. This will give you a bunch of information about the fork but there's also a tune tab, they ask for your weight (lbs or Kg you can choose) and based on that they give a base pressure and rebound setting and this has worked for me on a 2017 recon fork. So it might be worth giving that a shot, googling rockshox setup guide gets you on the site pretty quick. Typed this right after you said that you put a 145psi in the fork hope this'll help

[@hardtailparty]

@@gsbionicleboy I have been riding for 25 years, and worked at several different shops as a mechanic. You'll notice the fork legs also have the recommended pressures written on them. I can tune a fork by feel, rather than the app. The app is a good starting point for people who are new, but this fork definitely needs more pressure to be ridden this way.

[@hardtailparty]

@@samjezard very interested. Do you mind sending me a message on Instagram?

[@jordangladwish7782]

I just bought this bike 2 weeks ago and after 10+ years of being away from the sport, the Fuse made me fall in love all over again. This was an awesome review. Cheers!

[@hardtailparty]

Congrats on a great purchase!

[@StudlyMotoCo]

Rock on bro! Great review. I think I’m smiling as much as you are because you just kicked the crap out of those trails on my bike and it performed great. My full squish is a ‘19 Stumpjumper, I enjoy it so much I got the Fuse to match because the geo on the two are very very similar. Your right about the stack, but they ride almost identical on the trail and I so enjoy it. I’m happy you liked it. I believed I made a good choice when I got it and you just proved to many that Specialized got it right on this one. Nice ride, nice review, lookin forward to the next one.

[@darrellsummers9978]

Everything I needed to know! Another appreciated review! Btw, that looked like a pretty fun trail you were on.

[@Kristian_Saile]

Your reviews are excellent and much appreciated. This vid made me pull the trigger in a 22 Fuse Comp. They spec it with NX now and my local shop actually had one in my size. I pointed out a small ding in the top tube and they knocked $400 off the price which I thought was amazing for the state of things these days. Can’t wait try it out. As a guy who has been mountain biking since ‘87 I have seen everything from the advent of front suspension, full suspension, and all the trends and fads pass through but this is my first real modern geo bike. 🤙

[@HoofnIt03]

This is my bike but mine is in black...thanks for the review! I started riding almost 3 years ago...then I wanted a Mtn bike and got this. I am 54 and very much a beginner. After a bunch of research I chose this bike and I love it! I do feel the same you do about the short head tube. The rest is great so far for me. So far we haven't done anything technical but I have had so much fun riding the gravel roads and trails at our conservation area and am gradually adding some scary to me things. Still learning so much so going to Google to look up some of the things you mentioned. 😁 Thanks again!!!

[@bigchuck707]

After watching this review I went and bought one and MAN are you right about it! It is SO much fun, I just ride wheelies and practice manuals in front of my house every chance I get and it is a BLAST on the trails! Thanks for the awesome and honest review!

[@hardtailparty]

Congrats on a rad bike.

[@calebcole3252]

Thanks for the review. You definitely had some great points about my bike that I couldn’t have figured out (due to lack of experience). Like the wider rims!

[@Baksan_Dog1988]

thank you for this ride review.. I just pulled the trigger on it and pre-order the Fuse comp 29 here in Australia & its my first Mtb and I hope it wouldn’t disappoint me was looking for full sus but I just like the simplicity of HT. Cant wait for it. Thank you and new sub here.

[@sanjinred]

Oh man, that scenery! Greets from Norway.

[@navykip]

Great video again Steve. Your videos. Have really helped me understand more about mtbs.

[@lutherblackeye]

I love that you did the review on the bike.

[@CYOTsNiper]

I actually pulled the trigger and ordered this bike after watching this vid to replace my aged trek 8500 xc bike to get back into mtn biking! Mountain biking and racing use to be my primary hobby but that has changed and now it’s to get back into shape and stress relief!!!

[@derekallison2076]

Had this bike for 3 weeks now, love it so far coming off a 2012 Rockhopper. One reason I chose this was because the stack height of 652mm was a lot higher than similar complete bikes in the price range. Even then I put 38mm rise bars on.

[@breakandrun70]

Great review on the Specialized Fuze Comp, fun little bike. Seems like it was a little ripper, great second bike or first for that matter. Enjoy your week and have a great party in the mountains.

[@djlarroc]

What a great review. Been watching your vids all day. Subd

[@jonmarshall1502]

I started with the old Fuse, upgraded to a 140 Pike. Transferred it all to the new frame with the sliding dropouts. One of the best bikes I’ve ever had, simple fun. Most likely it’ll (or something similar) will be my forever bike.

[@samvilla6290]

The human analogies had me cracking up. Loved the review keep up the great work. 👍

[@ricaze70]

Very cool review! And the place is awesome, so pretty!!! And congratulations on your technical skills, I couldn’t do half of the obstacles!

[@s4aragon]

Just got the 2021 comp and loving it so far!

[@sparks701]

Loved the review. My expert should be here Friday. Just in time for a long weekend. I was waiting for the Johnny rotten and the price to come out. Just can't give up any more riding time waiting. Thanks Steve.

[@hardtailparty]

I totally get it. Congrats on the fuse, it's a super fun bike. I wonder if we're ever going to see the Johnny Rotten. Who knows...

[@jonathangreiner]

Great review Steve! Agree on the stack height - I have 30mm of spacers under my stem with 20mm rise bars on the L. Another thing worth mentioning is the lifetime frame warranty - it was one of the deciding factors when I decided to do a frame-up build; the quality of the welds inspires confidence!

[@hughsnyder891]

I’m curious what wheelset you went with on your frame up build ?

[@robvigesaa5738]

I'm glad that you're loving the bike. I took my 2020 27.5+ out this weekend for its maiden voyage and had a blast! I'm new to mtb, and after riding on some gnarlier trails this weekend, I can really appreciate your riding skill through your videos. Haha :)

[@hardtailparty]

Keep it up! One of the best parts of this sport is how much there is to learn. We're always progressing. I always recommend a local skills clinic if you can. It'll make much more of a difference than any component swap.

[@mattd7814]

Just bought a Fuse 27.5 yesterday, I lucked out and managed to find one in that sick matte green color in size Large at a shop about 3 hours away. I know it has lower end components than the 29 Comp and a different frame but I’m sure it will still be lots of fun. And at least it has 38mm wheels! Just getting back into MTB and I’m sure it will be a nice upgrade from my 11 year old Kona Cinder Cone! Also it was nice to see a familiar face, I remember watching your videos on your other channel when I was shopping for a camper and dreaming about Airstreams, glad I found this channel!

[@hardtailparty]

Congrats on the new bike!

[@AbrahamBarberi]

Great video, thank you. It has helped me to decide on my next bike.

[@FullKarenMusic]

You know how to party! Great trails. Can't wait to get my fuse back from the shop.

[@MotoMatt418]

I ended up getting the Fuse Expert 29 back in March because that's what was left at the shop-somehow. The bike is so much fun and confidence inspiring. I don't regret the hardtail purchase AT ALL. I absolutely love it and how Specialized set it up! Definitely a phenomenal bike for anyone searching for a hardtail.

[@hardtailparty]

Excellent choice. It's a fantastic bike.

[@Detroit3Pistons]

What the Expert weigh?

[@austinharnish7807]

Love the review! I am looking into get this bike once they are back in stock. Love to hear the opinion and things to look out for. Thanks!

[@bigounce4108]

You could go to a specialized dealer

[@austinharnish7807]

Ethan Rubel all specialized dealers around me don’t carry my size for the fuse

[@MrNat916777]

Nice review! I'm glad you liked the bike, and you right, the SX drivetrain is good enough, once the cable stretches and the derailleur gets dirty you gotta fiddle with the tension, but even I am no mechanic head and I managed to fix my gears... Also, they are really sold out everywhere! My friend went to order one and the LBS had to deal something with Specialized on the phone to get a second one in Canada... LBS guy told my friend we would be the only two owners of this bike across Canada... How cool :D

[@rdaglock]

Top Notch review mate. Clearly a bunch of peeps were waiting for this one. Thanks Steve! “...even though these SRAM Level brakes are goofy looking...” 😆

[@peterharris3096]

Great review, "goofy bars on other budget bikes" love that comment. Your having fun so that's what its about.

[@valdemardelapena1925]

I have that bike. Specilized Fuse comp and really its very fun. I felt many difference on the down hills, its really incredible. And its not a fast byke, but i think that was my best buy. Great video.

[@adventuresona700dollarhard5]

Excellent review!

[@jordancundari4868]

I own this bike. Got into riding only 2 months ago. The thing climbs and charges. I'm really pleased with my purchase. The 29" wheels roll over everything. I love the thing so much. Its got me riding 3 times a week. If you want a solid hardtail you can't go wrong with this.

[@Brotha_J619]

How does it handle on jumps?

[@UrbanFishing-MTB]

@@Brotha_J619i own a older version but its the 27.5 plus and its 100m and it you cant do crazy jumps. In 24inch jump im almost bottom out. Its fast for sure and super fun. I been riding it for 2 years here in az. I did most of the ride in south mountain. I had the fast rolling tires. I was able to use it on a black diamond. It can handle alot just the fork.

[@Brotha_J619]

@@UrbanFishing-MTB ty i ended up getting a kona honzo esd. Fuse looks nice but wish it cane a like slacker for what i ride

[@UrbanFishing-MTB]

@@Brotha_J619 nice congrats on the bike. Have you given a chance before to test drive it?

[@Brotha_J619]

@@UrbanFishing-MTB no I didn’t

[@justincapek1132]

Completely agree with your frame assessment. Total blast. I have a 21 Fuse Expert. I've never ridden the comp spec, so I couldn't compare, but I really love my Fox Rhythm and SLX drivetrain. Great video.

[@stevez3041]

Hey glad to hear you like the expert, do you still have it and what does it weigh? Thanks

[@justincapek1132]

@@stevez3041 I do still have it. Around 31/32 lbs if I remember correctly.

[@robertames4055]

Another great vid. You always give great commentary and opinions . .

[@hardtailparty]

Thanks Robert. I'm not good at very many things in life, but I sure ebjoy reviewing bikes.

[@robertames4055]

@@hardtailparty lol! I call bs. I know your successful in a lot things . I learn alot from you. .

[@danpemberton5284]

Thanks for the lengthy review! I bought the exact bike for the wife and I to share today. Luckily we found one! I've got a Trance 27.5, which I love, but miss the hardtail GT Zaskar from back in the day so this became an option. Plus, budget for this year prevented me from upgrading to a full suspension carbon. This is an awesome compromise!

[@hardtailparty]

Congrats! Not even a compromise. I'd take this bike over most carbon full suspensions.

[@izaacconz7124]

Man I also have a 27.5 2017 trance and i’m thinking to change it for a fuse expert 29, how you felt both bikes? What’s your opinion in my decision? I ride mostly jump bikepark and blue trails

[@genevincent2163]

Immediately ordered my Expert from my LBS after reading Bike Magazine's review back in June 19. It's so much fun I find myself riding it more often than my 150/140mm rig that's 3x the $. A lot of the fun from hardtails comes with the challenge of keeping up with buddies on FS rigs but by keeping it stock there's the added satisfaction of having them seeing you right there with them on an "entry level" build, dropping out of trails a hardtail really has no business being on. Definitely a capable bike.

[@sethpettman5491]

I'm looking at the fuse expert as well ! That or salsa timberjack xt. Any thoughts?

[@mlsporter]

Just picked up the Fuse a few weeks ago...and i agree with you completely

[@Petrosmurf9]

Waiting for these bad boys to get back on stock

[@hughsnyder891]

Thanks for the review Steve 😊

[@TonyPuleo1]

Great review...I'm on a Rockhopper now and this is my next one.

[@Coover90210]

That hoot at 10:05 man that is the best endorsement a bike could get! That’s what it is all about … laughs and hoots per mile. Edit: I have never heard you hoot so much in a review. Wow. I am sold!

[@DavidMaruca_]

i'm riding the 2019 fuse expert model, 27.5+, absolutely love it :)

[@Pabon1987]

Excellent video, the bike looks great

[@skater10abq]

I have 2018 Fuse, I love it, but I had to make some adjustments. Came with 3.0 tires, and I put 2.8, which made it way more nimble. Great little bike! Loves to get air!

[@UrbanFishing-MTB]

That’s interesting what kind of tyre??

[@enriquebiche4761]

Great review! Like that you didn't belittle the bike for being entry level. If you are ever in SoCal, I have a Medium Size W.A.R. Draconic that you can take for a spin.

[@eriksdodges853]

I had levels on my previous bike and never had any issues stopping. They're not codes but they do work !

[@hardtailparty]

100% agree. I know it's in vogue to make fun of sram, but I'd take this level of components over anything from 2010 and before

[@eriksdodges853]

@@hardtailparty that's because everyone's opinion on what's best is always the final say ! I put code R's on my san quentin 3 build and have no complaints. They are powerful ! And I can feather them when I need and not worry about the wheels locking up when I don't need them too. Right now running the factory pads but looking into alternatives when these wear out.

[@scottwatson7844]

Love your insight into this bike I'm looking at the Fuse Expert how does it compare to the Santa Cruz Chameleon ?

[@LiftandGo]

I have the ‘21 Fuse Comp and the review for the ‘20 is pretty spot on. One of the first things I did is compensate the short stack with a riser handlebar and a slightly shorter stem to 35mm. I run the dropout about halfway but after watching this, I think I will experiment with that a bit. I agree the hub leaves something to be desired. When I do upgrade the fork it will go to 140 with a longer post and might need to go back to slightly shorter bars. I did replace the Stout cranks with a matching Deore crank and a Shimano HG (XT) chain. Pretty sure once the fork and hub (or at least rear hub) gets swapped it’s gonna be fairly dialed, but even now the bike is a blast to ride and it just eats up trails.

[@patchesthejaybird8431]

I agree with low stack being not ideal, especially for my aging back. The slack seat tube angle is great for me. I often like getting back in the saddle and engaging my Gluteus Max, most saddles on my bikes are slammed all the way back. Being to far forwards also causes me knee problems. Well, we all have individual anatomy, so it's nice to learn about the differences in bike geometry.

[@TheNickbb10]

I have the gen 1 fuse, got over 10k miles on the frame. The XXL is one of the biggest bikes you can get, great for me at 6'7. Perfect ride quality for me, have heard lighter people find it too stiff(I'm 195lbs) I bought the comp level build and have slowly upgraded it as stuff died. Now have it setup 29er as more of an xc bike and the geo is spot on. Fox 34, shimano 12spd, slx 2 piston brakes and hand built alloy wheels. 25lbs with 2.4 tires, can get it do to 23lbs with gravel slicks. Full capable of sending double black diamonds, rips tight single track and can do big gravel epics if I put slicks on. I don't really like the pf30 bb standard in general, but never had any issues with it on this bike. I highly recommend it.

[@willianb.6475]

I have friend that got one. He added a 170mm suspension fork with 2 internal spacers (buffers). He is ripping everything in the trail. Sick!!!

[@iebiker124]

Great review - this is at the top of my list, unfortunately out of stock here in So. Cal - hopefully, a 2021 version will be released soon...thanks for reviewing this one.

[@AydinProductionsLtd]

Same here in Alberta Canada found one of the last mediums available.

[@AceCarleton]

great, very informative feedback. i fond it very helpfuf

[@letsgo_inc]

I bought a Fuse Comp 29 in black as a first time mountain biker. 4 weeks later I regret nothing. And the frame is so nice I think over time, I'll build it into something really great.

[@hardtailparty]

That frame is definitely worth keeping while you upgrade parts over time. That's a great bike.

[@letsgo_inc]

@jomax clux idk, by teaching myself? maybe I am mechanically inclined? maybe I have owned other bikes aside from mountain bikes? lmao man

[@fredboudreaux9663]

Great review. Getting this for my kid.

[@scottaw]

Glad you enjoyed the Fuse, I know I've enjoyed mine since I built it up in March! But like some others have said, distributor inventory on the Fuse bikes is all sold out. If you spot one at a dealer, don't wait, grab it. It'll be until this fall before they are back in inventory based on what my LBS has said.

[@hardtailparty]

Agreed. They're almost all sold.out everywhere. The specialized warehouse is out of stock.

[@joetalley192]

Thanks for the review. I just got on one yesterday, and noticed the seat position just like you said. I felt really leaned over sport bike style. This was on a large frame, and I'm 5'11.

[@IsraelMagalit]

Great review as always. Hope you could get a chance to review the lower specced 27.5+ version.

[@hardtailparty]

It's a totally different frame. It would be interesting to see how it rides.

[@IsraelMagalit]

@@hardtailparty Ye exactly 🙂

[@tylerc8039]

Appreciate the video Steve! Thanks for doing what you do. I was surprised to hear that you like this over the steel middle child though. Is it a material or geo thing? Just curious as I'm in the market haha

[@hardtailparty]

It's the feel of this aluminum vs the feel of the mc steel. Geo is more aggressive on the steel mc, but ride is stiffer on the mc, despite being steel.

[@chrisbfleetwood]

Just ordered the 2021 Fuse Comp. Pretty jacked. Upgrading from a 2021 Marlin 7. Thanks for the video!

[@hardtailparty]

That's a big upgrade, congrats!

[@ADVtheMISSIONARY]

for me i ask myself the question "what do i want from my next bike" then look for a bike with the right geometry then a fork that's 34mm or up(i am heavy and find anything under 34 to be flexy) the drivetrain i don't worry that much about as it will wear and ill probably change it out ,dropper is a must

[@JohnGrit]

Im new to the sport and I was literally debating this bike and the commencal....this might have just tipped the debate and i can pick this bike up locally. Great reciew man!!

[@hardtailparty]

Better grab it while you can, they're sold out worldwide.

[@JohnGrit]

@@hardtailparty Darn it!! I just tried to call 3 different bike shops. All sold out. I might be buying the new commencal. Do you recommend another hard tail around that price range and similar to the fuze???

[@DilbertMuc]

I can hardly follow your talking... the scenery you're riding in is beyond beautiful. What a fantastic landscape for biking!! :D

[@hardtailparty]

It can be super distracting to ride here. Sometimes it's tough to focus on the trail because the scenery is so great.

[@alonyc]

Hey Steve, thx for the review. You just helped me make my decision on my next bike! I messaged you a few weeks back. I am previously the owner of a 2019 Timberjack SLX +. I say previously because my pride and joy was a casualty of the looting in Los Angeles a coupla weeks back of the Santa Monica REI. I originally bought the bike from REI partially with some of my member dividend. I recently purchased an upgraded wheelset, Raceface Affect R 30s, and I was already running 2.6's on the WTB boat anchors it came with. Brought it in to swap out the upgraded wheels and wouldn't ya know it, the store gets looted. REI is reimbursing me for the bike and the few upgrades I've done. They have no stock in TJ's nor does Salsa. I now have to find me a Fuse Comp. Thanks for helping me with that decision! Bike inventory is real low out there. I may have to drive a ways to pick one up. Oh, and I still want to come rail some trail with you guys someday... Thx!

[@hardtailparty]

Nooooooo. Sorry to hear about the theft.

[@jorgeignaciocruzreyes7449]

You just convinced me of buying this!

[@edgarsilva9320]

great job man always good reviews, would be great if you do a review from any of the ragley bikes, specially the marley, sounds up on your street, regards from the basque country

[@hardtailparty]

Ragley review coming soon.

[@edgarsilva9320]

@@hardtailparty amazing!!! that's what's up!

[@hambo76]

@@edgarsilva9320 it will be a Ragley mmmbop too, can't wait!

[@ShahnewazYT]

This really looks like a do it all hardtail. Very, very tempted to buy this.

[@PopCanIdea]

I just bought mine. Only found one XL in Canada

[@norcalchrismeister]

@@PopCanIdea I'm 6'2" and think I need an XL Fuse. Can you let me know your height? Are you still enjoying the bike?

[@marksman857]

Awesome video 🤙🏽 thank you

[@pedrocesarrenteriaflores4423]

Woow, I'm amazed at the fuse. The past few years I drove the commencal meta ht with 27.5 wheels and to be honest I was considering buying a new one but 29 wheels. but after watching this video I definitely need to see the fuse before making my decision.

[@mitchwarren1600]

🔥A lot of very useful information!! 🔥 I WANT ONE !! it’s gonna cost me the price of one to fix up my enduro! It would be perfect on my local loam.

[@jestt600]

Great review, I would love to see your opinion on the Giant Fathom 1 27.5

[@Eramirez209]

The fathom 1 wants to party but big brother Steve does not like to take the fathom 1 to party...smh

[@bentravers5075]

Great stuff!

[@mlsporter]

So funny....I’m really enjoying your vid...I live in an area rich with mountain biking trails...I have not ridden in years and was convinced by some people that I couldn’t ride the trails here without full suspension

[@hardtailparty]

Ah yes, the full suspension marketing coolaid has been drunk far too much. I've yet to find an area that can't be ridden well on a hardtail. I've found trails that suit a FS better, but not an entire riding area.

[@nl3712]

Thanks for an awesome, honest, unbiased review...On the bike and mountain biking in general. I wanted one so bad, but specialized down here (s-africa) decided to not to bring any in (probably because we’re all xc nuts). Great channel.

[@viacheslavkrasin3119]

How the feel in comparison to Salsa Timberjack 29 ?

[@tjay_mac]

Awesome review man! Did you do Marin San Quentin review? I must’ve missed that. I owned that bike for 2 months with good parts such as Stans Baron/Hydra hubs, Carbon cranks, bars, XX1, etc... I take it on smooth trails in Mid-Peninsula, Bay Area. It’s nice! Then I took it to Demonstration Forest. 😏 That frame has no give at all! I felt like a pinball getting bounced around. I couldn’t let go of my brakes! Couple of weeks later, I moved the parts over to my GG-Pedalhead and took it to Demo (Braille Trail) and I matched my Full Suspension PR on that Pedalhead. Super compliant frame! That SQ is good on smooth trails but for a ligh rider like myself, that frame is stiff! I’ll send this link to my friends who are looking for budget hardtail. 🤙

[@ElliotP2654]

Sick video!

[@RamblinRoverMatt]

the brother anology :) hahahah love it i think ill take one, upgrading from my rusty 2011 rockhopper 29 base model. Been researching for a bit and having a local shop to check it out is outweighing the lower end components and risk of spending 2k on something unseen for sure . plus my shop does a free year of tune ups after purchase ..Thanks!

[@nathanplavnick8111]

Love my Fuse 29, but I intended to pay less than say a chameleon so that I would have $600 to upgrade it. Here are my gripes: The SX derailleur is godawful and broke after a month of use. I upgraded to a GX Eagle and it’s a night and day difference. Never any chain slapping, and nothing but responsive shifting. I upgraded the brakes because even after changing the pads and bleeding the brakes it still did not have the stopping power that I needed to feel safe on the trail. The last one is a big one: the adjustable dropout is cool in theory, but it’s tied into the derailleur hanger. Consequently, if you have to replace the hanger, as I have to now, you realize that no one sells this part online and it’s hard to get. The 27.5 fuse by comparison doesn’t have the adjustable dropout, but shares a derailleur hanger with pretty much all common specialized bikes. I love how this bike rides, but the amount of work that I’ve had to put into it to keep it trail ready is pretty staggering.

[@thomaskline6226]

Where did you end up finding the hanger?

[@jonthesailorman]

This review helped me narrow my options down and I would up getting a second hand version of this exact bike. I was looking into getting a new one, but the retail price jumped up by almost $400 compared to last years for the same spec. Would have loved the warranty, but I’m stoked I found a deal. If you had to pick a good budget wider rim set for those 29+ tires, what would you wind up with you think?

[@michaelgoddard9089]

I wish I could come out and let you ride my Nukeproof Scout 275 to get your opinion on it.. Really enjoy the channel, your turn video has helped me out a bunch with getting out over the bars. Still getting used to doing it though. One other thing, I have the same fork on mine, and I’m 275# but am not bottoming out with it at 192ish psi.

[@THOELL2737]

great review I like how your not stuck on having the best components . i been looking at the 27.5 plus so i can swap out 29 once and a while .I kinda of get confused on seat tube angle because it changes depending how high your seat is and where you position your seat on the rails right? I like your honesty in not having to have the best parts and just enjoying the ride . have a great day

[@hardtailparty]

You are correct. Actual seat tube angle and effective seat tube angle are two different measurements.

[@andyshive5777]

I have the 27.5+ version of this bike and I LOVE it! It's got the wide rims you're looking for (38mm internal width and 2.8" tires). I might go down to a meaty 2.6" after I finally wear out the stock tires.

[@Detroit3Pistons]

Andy Shive how small of a tire can you run on those wheels?

[@thatsjimmii]

Detroit3Pistons I’m running 2.4 with no issues

[@rhino5ohh]

I've got the 2020 fuse 27.5 too. Absolutely love it!

[@wadeowen2109]

@@thatsjimmii you're running 2.4 on the 38mm? I have the 27.5 as well and was considering doing 2.4 at least in the rear. Wasn't sure if I'd need a new rim or not

[@quintonritter9539]

I’ve got the 27.5+ version as well. Still trying to wear out the stock tires. Wondering if anyone has fit 3.0 tires on one?

[@TheGreaterU]

I have the expert version of this bike. I like it so much that I have been upgrading it. I just put a pike Ultimate on it, whole other level. Took this bike on White Rim in a day, flawless. Can't say enough on how this bike handles itself.

[@hardtailparty]

Nice work! That's how I'd set it up too white rim in a day is no joke, congrats on a massive achievement. I'm not sure I will ever be able to do white rim in a day.

[@finproductions]

@Kwinten What year model do you have and what wheel size?

[@TacozHelmet]

I'm glad I have the the fuse comp 29er 2wks old and That's why I only I believed hardtail party😊🍺 - from canada

[@niteryder50]

Great review, might be just what I'm looking for to complement my 160mm full suspension. Sounds super fun trail ripper that can go anywhere. So hard to find HT in local shop that isn't budget or XC. Had older Commencail and was fun till got new fully and made me not like the short reach, was looking at Honzo nice you had comment on that. Cheap components really don't matter, can all be swapped.

[@hardtailparty]

I'll have a review on the honzo st soon

[@niceG3s]

Just bought the 2021 based on this review. Will enjoy it for awhile before I change anything, but wheels to 35mm was a good tip. Hearing the crank is weak. May have to buy some of your time. You are heads and tails better than anyone else on youtube I've found.

[@bk83082]

Awesome! The part where you were talking about $1700 being entry level nowadays got me thinking. For many people who are truly going to be entering the sport, this would be way over budget. Would you consider reviewing one of the sub-$1000 2021 Rockhoppers? I would be really fascinated to see your review of that true entry price point. That's the type of bike I started on (25 years ago) and I'm curious to see how far that segment has come. Thanks for pumping out these vids!

[@hardtailparty]

Possibly. I usually try to focus on bikes that have thru axles and current axle width standards since they're easier to upgrade down the road. I'm always on the lookout for fantastic bikes that ride well at lower pricepoints. That said, this bike is 10x better than even the best bikes from the 90s. So while it may be budget today, it's still way better than the bikes that cost $5000+ back in the day.

[@bk83082]

I hear that, totally agree. I think your takeaways on riding a new trail bike with qr skewers would be really interesting.

[@lionelhernandez34]

Wow the issues I had with it are exactly what you spoke of here, I'm a novice and struggled when I pulled the trigger as the "direct to market" I was considering was a couple hundred less. In the end I came to a similar decision and picked up the comp as it was local and the bike shop is reputable and available for any issues. I can honestly say it's a freaking blast, thing I will adjust the chain stay as you mentioned, great video thanks for sharing.

[@hardtailparty]

you made a good choice.

[@lionelhernandez34]

@@hardtailparty also when the dropper hit the bottle cage bolt that was kinda disappointing for me as well. "Us short guys need all the help we can get!" You are correct sir

[@hardtailparty]

I imagine you could drill out the nutsert (or have a very competent shop do it) to get more drop on your seat post.

[@lionelhernandez34]

@@hardtailparty I do ha e a question, not sure if you set it up tubless or not. Did it require tape and what not to convert?

[@BradTrials]

Great review Steve! I got lucky and stumbled across a 1 week old used one for ~$1100 because the guy wanted to go full squish. My only gripe is the limited seatpost insertion when the seattube is otherwise straight. I'm contemplating drilling out the rivnut to fit a 180 dropper as I think this bike would be even more awesome if the seat could be totally slammed. If anyone reading the comments has done this let me know how it worked - while specialized would probably void the warranty I can't see it compromising the integrity of the frame if done carefully.

[@hardtailparty]

That's a steal, nice job. I love the idea of drilling out the rivnut. If you're careful, I don't see that being a problem. It's aluminum, so it won't rust. Do it!

[@michaelcampos9292]

Nice review! I want to get back into mountain biking and this was actually one of the bikes I was looking at. I was also looking at the Chameleon and Timberjack, which you have content on. How would the Fuse compare to the Niner Air 9 with the same build spec. I've been out of the game a while, so I've learned a lot of newer stuff and geometry through your channel.

[@hardtailparty]

I'd skip the Air 9. It's geometry is fairly old-school. It'll be more twitchy and less fun.

[@Jdreynolds2]

This was high on my list when building a custom hardtail but the frame is crazy overpriced. $800 for the AL frame I think. Crazy. But maybe at some point I can find a used one to swap my parts to. For now I'm loving my Honzo ST. Anyways, thanks for the review! Love how you advocate for riding in general in all of your reviews.

[@ryankutzbach9142]

I found the same thing. I ended up with a Nukeproof Scout as it was half the price of the Fuse.

[@Kabum24]

Hey man, Great content. Keep it up! I haven't seen you ride a Specialized Chisel. Love mine and would like to hear your thoughts about it, since I haven't ridden too many other hardtails.

[@piercewasmund2042]

Love my fuse. Tested a good amount of bikes when I was looking. The fuse was the most "fun" bike I tried. I do not like the engagement. I do find being clipped in does help a little with that.

[@DavidMaruca_]

Looking to put some Chris king hubs into mine when these specialized generics eventually keel over. Still waiting for them to die though lol. They just seem to keep on truckin

[@johna6793]

I just got the 2022 model of this bike. Going to change out the bars, grips and seat right away just based on what I like to ride with. I will change out the brakes later as they are not near as good as my other bike that has formula the one brakes. I might reach out to you on your Patreon to chat about the Klamper brakes and see what I need to convert to those as I really like the idea of a mechanical disk brake or if you have any other brake suggestions. Overall I'm very happy with this purchase. This is the first time back on a hardtail in over 20 years and I'm loving it more that being on my Ellsworth full suspension bike. Thanks for all your work on this channel. I'm loving all of your videos!!

[@hardtailparty]

Congrats on a great bike. That's one of my all time favorite saddles. If you're in the US and you want to sell it let me know.

[@johna6793]

@@hardtailparty As soon as my new saddle comes in you can just have the old one if you want it. I do live in the US (Oregon).

[@markboyes6186]

G'day Steve love your channel. I have a 2016_17 fuse I upgraded the wheels to hope hubs and dt Swiss rims in both sizes. When I feel like riding fast XC I put on the 29-2.3and when I travel I use the 27. 5 - 3.+thick socks. Unfortunately I cracked the frame. Fortunately it has a lifetime warranty. The specialized shop have informed me my 2021 replacement frame will arrive shortly. 😁. Ps I ride in Western Australia. Desert country.

[@hardtailparty]

That's a killer upgrade! The new 2021 frame is even better than the old one.

[@ElevationEveryWeekend]

Looks super solid! Great overview!