The Specialized Epic is quite likely the defacto bike of choice at the Absa Cape Epic. We’ve seen countless examples of Specialized’s cross-country racer this year, but this particular bike is quite special. Christoph Sauser’s Epic S-Works is decked out in a custom Investec Songo Specialized paint strip. Something about the Investec zebra black, white and silver all fits quite nicely. And somewhat ironically, even in retirement Sauser still dons a zebra jersey, albeit of a different sort to that of his Epics past.
Aside from the custom paint job, Sausers Epic S-Works features the recently released SRAM Level Ultimate brakes. Other changes from the factory specification include his Rotor Rex crankset and QRing oval chainring (34T) with Look S-Track pedals. Following a bit of a trend we’re noticing among the pro contingent, the bike also sports a Specialized Power saddle (in this case the S-Works model).
Specification list:
- FrameSpecialized Epic S-Works
- ForkRockshox RS-1 Brain 100mm
- ShockFox Specialized Brain Future Shock
- RimsRoval Control SL
- Front HubSRAM
- Rear HubRoval SL
- Front TyreSpecialized Renegade 1.95
- Rear TyreSpecialized Renegade 1.95
- HandlebarsSpecialized S-Works
- StemSyntace F109
- HeadsetFSA
- BrakesSRAM Level Ultimate
- ShiftersSRAM XX1
- DerailleursSRAM XX1
- CassetteSRAM X01
- CranksetRotor Rex 34T
- ChainringQRing QX1
- ChainXX1
- PedalsLook S-Track
- SeatpostSpecialized S-Works
- SaddleSpecialized Power SWORKS
We spotted some ‘weight weenie’ bolts in the mix too
Wouldn't it be better to run a wider tyre which you can run at a lower pressure for the rocky/sandy terrain?
I am not that 'technically' minded so maybe completely wrong.