Specialized Epic 9 Expert Carbon XC Full Suspension 120mm SRAM GX AXS

The Specialized Epic 9 Expert is the evolution of Specialized’s World Cup XC platform, designed for riders who demand maximum efficiency on climbs and full control on technical descents.

This is a carbon full suspension XC bike with 120mm rear travel, built for cross-country racing, marathon events and high-performance trail riding where speed is the priority.

The design philosophy is focused on a clear goal: maximum pedaling efficiency combined with modern trail capability, without drifting into heavier trail-bike territory.

Advanced carbon XC frame

The FACT 11m carbon frame is engineered to deliver a lightweight yet stiff platform with modern XC geometry.

• FACT 11m carbon construction
• 120mm rear travel
• Efficient pedaling-focused kinematics
• UDH derailleur hanger compatibility
• Internal cable routing for clean integration
• Wireless drivetrain ready

This results in a bike that accelerates quickly, climbs efficiently and stays composed on technical terrain.

RockShox suspension package

The Epic 9 Expert is equipped with a race-oriented RockShox suspension setup:

• Fork: RockShox SID Select+
• Rear shock: RockShox SIDLuxe Select+

The suspension is tuned for XC efficiency, prioritizing traction, responsiveness and pedaling support while maintaining control on rough terrain.

It is designed to keep the bike fast on climbs and stable at high speeds on descents.

SRAM GX Eagle AXS Transmission

This bike features the SRAM GX Eagle AXS Transmission, a wireless electronic drivetrain designed for precise shifting under load.

• Wireless AXS electronic shifting
• 10-52T wide-range cassette
• SRAM Flattop chain technology
• AXS POD controller

It ensures fast, consistent and reliable shifting performance in demanding XC race conditions.

Roval Control SL V carbon wheels

The bike is equipped with lightweight Roval Control SL V carbon wheels, optimized for XC racing performance.

• Carbon hookless rims
• 29mm internal width
• DT Swiss 370 hubs
• Tubeless ready setup

These wheels improve acceleration, cornering grip and overall responsiveness on technical terrain.

Modern XC geometry

The geometry is designed for today’s XC racing demands:

• Progressive head angle for stability at speed
• Longer reach for better control on descents
• Short chainstays for climbing efficiency
• Balanced stack for efficient pedaling position

The result is a bike that is still extremely fast uphill but significantly more stable and capable on technical descents than older XC generations.

Who is the Epic 9 Expert for?

This bike is designed for riders who want true XC performance rather than general-purpose MTB use.

• XC and marathon racing
• High-intensity off-road training
• Experienced or competitive riders
• Riders looking for a lightweight, fast race bike

It is not a trail bike: it prioritizes efficiency, speed and racing performance over extreme downhill capability.

Ride feel

The Epic 9 Expert feels extremely fast and responsive, accelerating with minimal effort and maintaining speed efficiently on climbs and flat sections.

On descents, it delivers more control and confidence than traditional XC bikes thanks to its modern geometry and suspension tuning.

This is a race-focused machine that rewards strong riders and efficient pedaling power.

Main features

• Carbon XC full suspension MTB
• 120mm rear travel
• RockShox SID / SIDLuxe suspension
• SRAM GX Eagle AXS 12-speed drivetrain
• Roval Control SL V carbon wheels
• Modern progressive XC geometry
• Wireless drivetrain ready platform
• Tubeless ready setup

Why choose it

• One of the most efficient XC full suspension bikes
• Excellent balance of climbing and descending performance
• Modern wireless electronic shifting
• Lightweight and responsive carbon wheelset
• Updated XC race geometry
• Ideal for serious XC racing and performance riding