Specialized Chisel FS: Not an entry-level full-suspension mountain bike

Specialized presents another premium aluminum bike, the new Chisel FS, which takes the Chisel into the full suspension dimension. Specialized claims it is the “lightest full suspension aluminum mountain bike in the world.”

Big claims aside, the Specialized Chisel FS line brings back high-performance aluminum full suspension. The line doesn’t simplify the geometry, taking cues from its World Cup-winning Epic 8 sibling. It uses the same D’Aluisio Smartweld technology as the Chisel hardtail and new Crux DSW, saving some weight and gaining some style.

Specialized Chisel FS – What is it?

The Specialized Chisel FS takes its cues from the newly released Epic 8: advanced suspension kinematics, tuned Specialized Ride Dynamics suspension and refined progressive geometry. The result is a classy riding machine that can cut trails to pieces with the carbon crew.

Specialized developed a flex-stay rear end for better suspension performance while avoiding the extra weight and maintenance associated with pivot points required in a traditional design. Combined with the D’Aluisio Smartweld frame construction, you get a lightweight frame that’s less of a burden on your wallet.

Frame construction – special chisel FS

The new Chisel FS uses D’Aluisio Smartweld technology. For those unfamiliar with the construction of the traditional aluminum frame, it connects the tubes with welds in the areas of highest stress. D’Aluisio Smartweld offers the highest strength at the lowest weight through hydroformed tube joints. This design allows Specialized to push the weld away from the area of ​​highest stress and create a “valley” where the weld lies.

One-piece seat tube/bottom bracket:

Chisel is the first of its kind, saving extra material and weight with a one-piece hydroformed seat tube. The design is similar to the Crux, Allez and other DSW road frames. The unique construction integrates the seat tube pivot, center pivot and bottom bracket shell.

Notable specifications

• Cockpit: 29 mm rise handlebar
• Fork: RockShox fork with 120 mm travel
• Shock: 110 mm rear wheel travel (metric 190×40)
• Dropper: Dropper seat posts on all models
• Brakes: SRAM Level T brakes
• Front wheel: Ground control 2.35
• Rear wheel: FastTrak 2.35

Specialized Chisel FS Geometry: Modern XC and Downcountry

Special chisels FS Models

Chisel Shimano:

Notable specification: The Specialized Chisel FS Shimano features a Shimano Deore M6100 12-speed groupset. Suspension is provided by a RockShox Recon 120mm fork with Motion Control damper. The rear shock is a Ride Dynamics Tuned X-Fusion. The seat post is from TranzX and has a remote lever for hassle-free operation.

Special chisels:

Notable specs: SRAM NX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain. Suspension is provided by RockShox 120mm Recon fork with Motion Control damper. Ride Dynamics Tuned X-Fusion rear shock. TranzX dropper post

Special chisel comp:

Notable specification: The suspension is provided by the 120 mm SID fork from RockShox with Rush shock absorber. RockShox Deluxe Select+ rear shock tuned for driving dynamics – TranzX telescopic seat post, Shimano SLX drive with 12 gears.

Specialized Chisel FS prices and availability

• Specialized Chisel Shimano Comp: $3,400, £2,700, £2,700
• Specialized Chisel Shimano: $2,600, £2,000, €2,600
• Special chisel: $2,600, £2,000, €2,600
• Chisle FS frameset: $2,000, £1,400, €1,700

First impressions Specialized Chisel Shimano Comp

I’ve been a fan of the latest Specialized Chisel since it came out. I like an aluminum frame with racing geometry and an affordable build. This formula for alloy road bikes works for Specialized. So far they’ve taken one bike from each category and introduced an alloy alternative with nearly the same geometry as the top offering.

The Chisel FS takes a lot from the latest Epic. Its geometry is aggressive but playful, the suspension is modern at 120mm and it’s light for a full suspension alloy bike. Small details make the bike stand out, like the cable routing, the little cover on the bottom bracket that keeps out dirt and the beefy tubes.

Driving impressions

My rides on the Chisel FS were mostly on hilly PA singletrack with roots, rocks, and steep climbs. The frame is remarkably stiff and the suspension overcomes bumps and rocks smoothly. Pedaling efficiency is excellent on long hilly sections on less demanding terrain.

With a better fork and wheels, the bike would be much lighter, which is why there is also a frame-only option. However, our test bike weighs exactly 28 pounds in size M – not bad for aluminum.

For all day riding and various types of trails, the Chisel does a good job. I would like a remote lock option or a hole in the frame to put one in, but that may not be the target audience for this bike.

The toggle switch lockout isn’t a challenge, but if you’re an XC freak like me, you’ll have to get used to it. The 120mm of travel works well with the Chisel frame setup, and after just a short ride you’ll forget you’re on an aluminum bike.

Components

The component configuration is spot on in my opinion. The Shimano SLX groupset combines solid shifting with slight weight reduction. The brakes are the same Shimano model I use on my hardtail Chisel and work great.

If I wanted to lose weight quickly on the Chisel FS (and not spend too much money), I would go for lighter wheels (like the Hunt Race alloy) and a carbon handlebar. I want to see how much weight we can save and what the best value for money is.

But don’t get me wrong, the Chisel FS Shimano Comp construction is just the right mix of race-ready and ride-ability – for many riders, it’s just right.

I’ve spent minimal time with the Chisel FS, but I have big plans, so stay tuned for some cool projects using this unique frame.

www.specialized.com