Specialized CHISEL Manual
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Specialized CHISEL Manual

SYMBOLS

When reading this user manual, note the various important symbols and warnings explained below:

WARNING! The combination of this symbol and word indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, could result in serious injury or death. Many of the Warnings say, "you may lose control and fall." Because any fall can result in serious injury or even death, we do not always repeat the warning of possible injury or death.
CAUTION: The combination of the safety alert symbol and the word CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous situation that, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury, or is an alert against unsafe practices.
The word CAUTION used without the safety alert symbol indicates a situation that, if not avoided, could result in serious damage to the bicycle or the voiding of your warranty.
information This symbol alerts the reader to information that is particularly important.
Tech tips are useful tips and tricks regarding installation and use.
This symbol means that high-quality grease should be applied as illustrated.
This symbol means a high-quality green threadlocker should be applied as illustrated.

GENERAL INFORMATION

INTENDED USE

Bicycles designed for riding Conditions 1 and 2, plus rough trails, small obstacles, and smooth technical areas, including areas where momentary loss of tire contact with the ground may occur. NOT for jumping. All mountain bicycles without rear suspension are Condition 3, as well as some lightweight rear suspension models.

Intended for cross-country riding and racing which ranges from mild to aggressive over intermediate terrain (e.g., hilly with small obstacles like roots, rocks, loose surfaces, hard pack and depressions). Cross-country and marathon equipment (tires, shocks, frames, drive trains) are light-weight, favoring nimble speed over brute force. Suspension travel is relatively short since the bicycle is intended to move quickly on the ground.
Not intended for hardcore freeriding, extreme downhill, dirt jumping, slopestyle, or very aggressive or extreme riding. Not for spending time in the air, landing hard and hammering through obstacles.
Trade off: Cross-country bicycles are lighter, faster to ride uphill, and more nimble than all-mountain bicycles. Cross-country and marathon bicycles trade off some ruggedness for pedaling efficiency and uphill speed.

WEIGHT LIMITS

MODEL CARGO WEIGHT LIMIT kg / lb STRUCTURAL WEIGHT LIMIT kg / lb
All models Front: 0 / 0
Rear: 5 / 11
127 / 280

CARGO WEIGHT LIMIT: The maximum cargo weight a bicycle has been designed and tested to support structurally.
STRUCTURAL WEIGHT LIMIT: The maximum total weight (rider, bicycle, and cargo) a bicycle is designed and tested to support structurally.


The specified cargo weight limit applies only to cargo carried through the use of compatible equipment and seat bags. If the cargo weight limit of the bicycle differs from the cargo weight limit set by the rack or seat bag manufacturer, always use the lowest limit. If you add any other load-bearing accessories, including, but not limited to, baskets and child carriers, you do so at your own risk in that these accessories have not been tested for compatibility, reliability, or safety on your bicycle. Failure to follow this warning may result in serious personal injury or death.


Attaching items such as panniers, bags, water bottle cages, storage boxes, racks, or fenders to your bicycle can damage the frame. Using frame protection, such as protective decals, may help prevent damage from occurring.

information For more information on the intended use and structural weight limits for the frame and components, please refer to the Owner's Manual.

GEOMETRY

GEOMETRY

GEOMETRY FRAME SIZE
XS S M L XL
A Stack (mm) 602.3 593 606 620 629
B Reach (mm) 390 415 445 470 495
C Head tube length (mm) 95 95 110 125 135
D Head tube angle (°) 66.5° 66.5° 66.5° 66.5° 66.5°
E BB height low (mm) 326 336 336 336 336
BB height high (mm) 332 342 342 342 342
F BB drop low (mm) 46 36 36 36 36
G Trail (mm) 113 113 113 113 113
H Fork length: full (mm) 530 530 530 530 530
I Fork rake offset (mm) 44 44 44 44 44
J Front center (mm) 682 706 742 773 802
K Chainstay length (mm) 437 437 437 437 437
L Wheelbase (mm) 1115 1141 1177 1208 1237
M Standover height (mm) 756 777 777 787 790
N Seat tube length (mm) 375 392 410 450 500
O Seat tube angle (°) 75.5° 75.5° 75.5° 75.2° 75°
P Top tube length, horizontal (mm) 527 565 602 634 664
Crank length (mm) 165 170 170 175 175
Handlebar width (mm) 760 760 760 760 760
Stem length (mm) 60 60 60 60 60
Saddle width (mm) 155 155 143 143 143

information All models come standard with the extension flip chip in the low position.

SPECIFICATIONS

SPECIFICATIONS

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS - Part 1
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS - Part 2


Specialized frames are compatible ONLY with forks that have a specific range of travel. The use of different styled forks or forks with longer travel may result in catastrophic failure of the frame, which may result in serious personal injury or death.


While the frame is generally compatible with tires up to 29 x 2.4 in, tire dimensions can vary depending on the manufacturer, and not all forks are designed to accept a larger tire. Always check with the fork manufacturer regarding required clearances.

information Tire sizes vary significantly from brand to brand. CEN standards require a minimum of 6 mm of clearance between the frame/fork and the tires. When choosing a wheel and tire combo, factor in enough clearance for the conditions, setup, and wheel flex.

CAUTION: Certain chainrings may not have adequate clearance with the chainstay. Verify spacing and chainline before using it.

BOLT SIZE / TOOLS / TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS


Correct tightening force on fasteners (nuts, bolts, screws) on your bicycle is important for your safety. If too little force is applied, the fastener may not hold securely. If too much force is applied, the fastener can strip threads, stretch, deform or break. Either way, an incorrect tightening force can result in component failure, which can cause you to lose control and fall. Where indicated, ensure that each bolt is torqued to specification. After your first ride, and consistently thereafter, recheck the tightness of each bolt to ensure secure attachment of the components.


Ensure that all contact surfaces are clean and bolt threads are greased and thread locker is applied, as per instruction, prior to installation.

information For all non-Specialized components, please refer to the manufacturer's manuals for tools and torque settings.

information Repeated installation and removal of bolts may reduce the effectiveness of the pre-applied threadlocker. In this case, it can be replaced with the application of blue Loctite.

BEARING AND SPACER SPECIFICATIONS

BEARING AND SPACER SPECIFICATIONS

LOCATION QTY DIMENSION INFO
1 Main Pivot Bearing (Chainstay) 2 12 mm ID x 24 mm OD x 6 mm W, DBL SLD 6901V-2RS
2 Main Pivot Spacer 2 12.1 mm ID x 19.5 mm OD x 3 mm W Tapered edge against the bearing
3 Link Bearings 6 10 mm ID x 19 mm OD x 5 mm W, DBL SLD 6800V-2RS
4 Link at Seat Tube Spacer 2 10.1 mm ID x 16.5 mm OD x 2 mm W
5 Link at Extension/Seatstay Spacer 8 Custom, 8 mm ID x 16.5 mm OD x 2.5 mm W

BOLT/AXLE/WASHER AND FLIP CHIP SPECIFICATIONS

BOLT/AXLE/WASHER AND FLIP CHIP SPECIFICATIONS

LOCATION QTY DIMENSION TOOL SIZE TORQUE
Nm in-lbf
1 Main Pivot Bolt 1 M8 x 12.2 mm x 1 mm P 5 mm hex 10 89
2 Main Pivot Axle 1 M10 Threaded Axle
3 Link at Seat Tube Bolt 2 M10 x 16 mm x 1 mm P 6 mm hex 10 89
4 Link at Seatstay & Extension Pivot Axle 4 M5 Threaded Axle 4 mm hex 6 53
5 Link at Seatstay & Extension Pivot Bolt 4 M5 x 8 mm x 0.8 mm P 4 mm hex 6 53
6 Rear Shock Mounting Bolt 1 M8 x 26 mm x 1.25 mm P 6 mm hex 20 177
7 Rear Shock Mounting Washer 1 M8, 8.4 mm ID x 13 mm OD x 0.5 mm THK
8 Flip Chip 2 8 mm ID x 15 mm OD x 6.5 mm W - GEO ADJ
9 Forward Shock Mounting Bolt 1 M5 x 8 mm x 0.8 mm P 4 mm hex 6 53
10 Forward Shock Mounting Axle 1 M5 Threaded Axle 4 mm hex 6 53
11 Forward Shock Mounting Washer 2 M8 x 8.25 ID x 15 OD x 0.3 THK

Tires must be inflated and periodically checked and re-inflated using a pump with an accurate pressure gauge.
Pump the tires up to your desired pressure. Refer to the tires' sidewall for pressure range. Check your wheel manual or decal on the rim itself to see if your wheels have a maximum pressure limit. Do not exceed it.

information Please refer to the Tires and Tubes section of your Specialized Bicycle Owner's Manual for additional information.


Never inflate a tire beyond the maximum pressure marked on the tire's sidewall or the maximum pressure limit specified by the wheel manufacturer, whichever is lower. Failure to follow this warning may cause the tire to blow off the rim and may result in serious personal injury.

ASSEMBLY

This manual is not intended as a comprehensive assembly, use, service, repair, or maintenance guide. Please see an Authorized Specialized Retailer for all service, repairs, or maintenance. Your Authorized Specialized Retailer may also be able to refer you to classes, clinics, or books on bicycle use, service, repair, and maintenance.


Use a sturdy repair stand to support the bicycle during assembly or maintenance and a bicycle rack for transportation.
When placing the frame and/or bicycle in a repair stand, clamp the stand to the seatpost and not the frame. Clamping the frame can cause damage to the frame that may or may not be visible, and can cause you to lose control and fall.


Many components on the bicycle are proprietary. Use of other components or hardware can compromise the integrity and strength of the assembly. Model components should only be used on the same model and not on other bicycles, even if they fit. Failure to follow this warning could result in serious injury or death.


Never modify your frame or components in any way. Do not sand, drill, file, or remove parts. Do not install incompatible forks or components. An improperly modified frame, fork, or component, can cause you to lose control and fall.


Before your first ride and regularly thereafter, ensure the pedals are tightened to specification. Pedals can loosen over time depending on the type and frequency of use. This is especially true if they were not installed properly. Riding with loose pedals may damage the threads and the pedal may disengage from the crank, which can result in a loss of control of the bicycle.

In order to successfully build the bicycle, it's very important to follow the order of operations as outlined in this manual. Modifying the order of assembly will result in a longer build process.


Correct tightening force on fasteners (nuts, bolts, screws) on your bicycle is important for your safety. If too little force is applied, the fastener may not hold securely. If too much force is applied, the fastener can strip threads, stretch, deform or break.
Either way, an incorrect tightening force can result in component failure, which can cause you to lose control and fall. Where indicated, ensure that each bolt is torqued to specification. After your first ride, and consistently thereafter, recheck the tightness of each bolt to ensure secure attachment of the components.


Ensure that all contact surfaces are clean and bolt threads are greased and thread locker is applied, as per instruction, prior to installation.

information For all non-Specialized components, please refer to the manufacturer's manuals for tools and torque settings.

information Repeated installation and removal of bolts may reduce the effectiveness of the pre-applied threadlocker. In this case, it can be replaced with the application of blue Loctite.

REAR TRIANGLE ASSEMBLY

The rear triangle of the bicycle comes fully assembled from the factory. However, you may need to disassemble the rear triangle for maintenance or repairs during the lifetime of your bicycle. If you don't feel comfortable with this process, please see an Authorized Specialized Retailer.

information All pivot bolts are factory treated with a threadlocker patch to help prevent the threads from seizing and/or creaking. Additionally, grease can be applied to the entire contact surface of the bolts, including the threads.
information Apply a thin layer of green Loctite 603 to the outside diameter of all bearings, then press all the bearings into their respective pivot locations.
Grease all surfaces that contact inner bearing races before placing the spacers against the bearings. This helps keep the spacers in place when assembling each pivot. Always place the smaller (tapered) surface against the bearing and the wider surface against the frame or stay.
information Assemble the rear triangle completely before torquing all the bolts in the order listed in section Bolt Torque Sequence.

MAIN PIVOT BEARINGS

  • Apply a thin layer of green Loctite 603 to the outside diameter of the bearings (A), and press them into their respective bearing bores.
    REAR TRIANGLE ASSEMBLY - MAIN PIVOT BEARINGS
  • Apply a thin layer of green Loctite 603 to the outside diameter of the bearings (B), and press them into their respective bearing bores.
    REAR TRIANGLE ASSEMBLY - LINK BEARINGS

ICR FUNNEL AND MUDGUARD

REAR TRIANGLE ASSEMBLY - ICR FUNNEL AND MUDGUARD

  • Insert the ICR funnel (A) into the frame.
  • Thread the mounting bolt (B) into the frame. Using a torque wrench and 2.5 mm hex bit, torque the bolt to 1.5 Nm / 13 in-lbf.
  • Make sure the area above the mounted ICR funnel is free of dirt.
  • Peel the self adhesive backing from the mudguard (C). Position the mudguard above the ICR funnel and then press firmly onto the seat tube.

  • Grease then place the link spacers (A) against the link bearings.
  • Align the link with the seat tube pivot threaded bore (B).
  • Grease and thread the link at seat tube bolts (C) into the frame.
  • Using a 6 mm hex key, loosely tighten the bolts.

SHOCK AT EXTENSION WITH FLIP CHIPS

SHOCK AT EXTENSION WITH FLIP CHIPS ASSEMBLY

ASSEMBLY

  • Insert the flip chip halves (A) into the rear shock eyelet (B) in the either high or low orientation.
  • Slide the shock eyelet and flip chip assembly into the extension.
  • Grease and thread the rear shock mounting bolt (C) with washer (D) into the extension.
  • Using a 6 mm hex key, loosely tighten the bolt.

ADJUSTING THE FLIP CHIPS
The bicycle geometry can be adjusted by rotating the flip chips in the rear shock eyelet. Depending on terrain or rider preference, the bicycle can be set up to be short and playful (high) or long and slack for stability (low).

  • Remove the flip chips (A) from the rear shock eyelet (B).
  • Rotate both flip chips 180 degrees, then insert them back into the rear shock eyelet in either the high or low position.

information All models are assembled with the flip chip in the low position. Switching from the low position to the high position raises the bottom bracket height by 5 mm, and steepens the head tube angle by 0.5 degrees.


Changing the frame configuration (flip chip position, tire size, fork length) can alter the bottom bracket height and/ or the head tube angle, which can have negative effects on the bicycle's handling characteristics and ride quality. Please refer to your Authorized Specialized Retailer before making any modifications.

REAR TRIANGLE ASSEMBLY - LINK AT EXTENSION

  • Grease, then place the extension spacers (x4) (A) into the link bearings.
  • Align the extension with the extension bearings.
  • Grease, then insert the extension axles (x2) (B) from the outside of the extension.
  • Grease, then thread the extension bolts (x2) (C) into the extension axles.
  • Using two 4 mm hex keys, loosely tighten the bolts.

FORWARD SHOCK MOUNT

REAR TRIANGLE ASSEMBLY - FORWARD SHOCK MOUNT

  • Align the forward shock eyelet with the frame mount.
  • Grease then insert the forward shock mounting axle (A) and washer (B) from the drive side of the frame.
  • Grease, then insert the mounting bolt (C) with washer (B) into the axle.
  • Using a 4 mm hex key, loosely tighten the bolt.

MAIN PIVOT

REAR TRIANGLE ASSEMBLY - MAIN PIVOT

  • Grease then place the spacers (A) against the inner surfaces of the pivot bearings.
  • Align the chainstay bearings (B) with the main pivot bore.
  • Grease, then insert the main pivot axle (C) through the chainstay (drive side) into the frame.

information The main pivot axle is keyed to prevent the axle from rotating.
Ensure axle is inserted correctly into the pivot bore.

  • Grease, then thread the main pivot bolt (D) into the axle.
  • Using a 5 mm hex key, loosely tighten the bolt.
  • Grease, then place the seatstay spacers (x4) (A) into the link bearings.
  • Flex the seatstay to align with the link bearings.
  • Grease, then insert the seatstay axles (x2) (B), from the outside, into the holes in the seatstay.
  • Grease, then thread the seatstay bolts (x2) (C) into the seatstay axles.
  • Using two 4 mm hex keys, loosely tighten the bolts.

BOLT TORQUING SEQUENCE

  • Using a torque wrench, torque each pivot bolt in order according to the torque spec listed below.
# PIVOT LOCATION TOOL in-lbf Nm
1 Main Pivot 5 mm hex 89 10
2 Link at Seat Tube 6 mm hex 89 10
3 Link at Extension 4 mm hex 53 6
4 Link at Seatstay 4 mm hex 53 6
5 Forward Shock Bolt 4 mm hex 53 6
6 Rear Shock Bolt 6 mm hex 177 20

SEATPOST MINIMUM / MAXIMUM INSERTION

Both the frame and seatpost have minimum insertion requirements. In addition, the frame has a maximum insertion requirement to prevent damage to the frame and seatpost.

Minimum insertion:

  • The seatpost must be inserted into the frame deep enough so the minimum insertion/maximum extension (min/max) mark (B) on the seatpost is not visible. The frame requires a minimum of 80 mm of insertion.

Maximum insertion:

  • The seat tube is reamed to a specified maximum insertion depth (A) for each frame size. This ream depth limits the insertion depth of the seatpost.
FRAME XS S M L XL
Minimum insertion (mm) 80
Maximum insertion (mm) 220 220 244 285 330
  • Once the saddle height is determined, using a torque wrench and 4 mm hex bit, torque the supplied seatpost clamp bolt to 6.2 Nm / 55 in-lbf.

information If the desired seat height cannot be achieved within the minimum and maximum insertion requirements, the seatpost should be replaced with a shorter or longer one.


Failure to follow the seatpost insertion requirements may result in damage to the frame and/or seatpost, which could cause you to lose control and fall.


For general instructions regarding the installation of the seatpost, refer to the appropriate section in the Owner's Manual. Riding with an improperly tightened seatpost can allow the saddle and seatpost to slide down, which can damage the frame and cause you to lose control and fall.

BOTTOM BRACKET

All models have a threaded 73 mm width bottom bracket shell and are compatible with any BSA threaded outboard bearing bottom bracket. Please refer to the crank manufacturer documentation for bottom bracket compatibility. Before installing the bottom bracket and crank, make sure all housings and wires are routed through the frame.


Do not face the bottom bracket shell! This can prevent proper installation of the crank. Your Specialized frame does not require any bottom bracket shell pre-installation preparation, as all surfaces have been precisely machined to specific tolerances at the factory for proper interface with a compatible crankset. Please refer to the manufacturer's instructions for crank and bottom bracket installation.


Always use a bottom bracket equipped with a sleeve between the two cups. Running a bottom bracket without the sleeve can result in housings and/or wires contacting the crank spindle, which can result in wear.

REAR BRAKE MOUNT

REAR BRAKE MOUNT ASSEMBLY

  • Assemble the brake mount (A) in place on the non-drive side chainstay.
  • Insert the rear bolt (B) with washer (C) from the underside.
  • Using a torque wrench and 5 mm hex bit, torque the bolt to 6 Nm / 53 in-lbf.


When installing the forward brake caliper bolt, the bolt must be inserted through the brake mount hole (D) and into the chainstay mount deep enough for a minimum of 9 mm thread engagement (E).

information If you customize your bicycle's brakes, ensure the supplied bolts have the correct thread engagement. If the engagement is insufficient, please replace the bolts with longer ones.

REAR DERAILLEUR HANGER

All bicycle models are UDH (Universal Derailleur Hanger) compatible.
REAR DERAILLEUR HANGER ASSEMBLY - Step 1

  1. Install the UDH hanger (A) into the frame dropout rotating it forward until it's completely seated (B) in the hanger pocket or contacts the rotational stop tab.
    information The hanger must be completely seated in the hanger pocket or against the frame stop tab when tightened to the specified torque.
  2. Install the UDH washer (C), then thread the UDH bolt (D) through the washer and into the hanger.
  3. Using a reverse torque wrench and 8 mm hex bit, torque the bolt to 25 Nm / 221 in-lbf. The UDH bolt is left-hand threaded.
  4. Apply grease to the rear thru-axle (E) threads, then install the thruaxle, conical washer and wheel. Using a torque wrench and 6 mm hex bit, torque the thru-axle to 15 Nm / 133 in-lbf.
    REAR DERAILLEUR HANGER ASSEMBLY - Step 2


Before your first ride and regularly thereafter, ensure the thru-axle and UDH is torqued to specification, and that the UDH has not moved. Thru-axles and the UDH can loosen over time depending on the type and frequency of use. This is especially true if they were not installed properly. Riding with a loose thru-axle or UDH can result in a loss of control of the bicycle and can cause you to fall.

HEADSET/FORK AND STEM ASSEMBLY

HEADSET/FORK AND STEM ASSEMBLY - Step 1

  • Install the upper (A) and lower (B) drop-in bearing cups.
  • Grease and install the upper bearing (C) followed by the compression ring (D) into the top of the head tube.
  • Grease and install the lower bearing (E) into the bottom of the head tube.
  • Apply a small amount of grease then install the crown race (F) onto the steerer tube (G) making sure it's fully seated on the fork crown, then install the steerer tube into the head tube.

HEADSET/FORK AND STEM ASSEMBLY - Step 2

  • Install the headset cover (A), your desired amount of spacers (B), then the stem (C) onto the steerer tube.
  • Install the tapered spacer (D) above the stem for optional adjustment later.
  • Install the top cap (E) and bolt (F). Tighten the top cap bolt to pre-load the headset. There should be no free play in the assembly and the handlebar should steer freely.

HEADSET/FORK AND STEM ASSEMBLY - Step 3

  • Using a 4 mm hex key, remove the four faceplate bolts (A) with washers (B) and remove the faceplate (C).
  • Install the handlebar then place the faceplate over the handlebar, then thread in the bolts with washers back into the stem.
  • Using a torque wrench and 4 mm hex bit, tighten each faceplate bolt approximately a half turn at a time in an alternating (cross) pattern until each is torqued to 6 Nm / 53 in-lbf.

information When torquing the stem faceplate bolts, the gap between the stem body and the faceplate should be equal on the top and the bottom.

  • With the bicycle on the ground, pull the front brake and rock the bicycle back and forth to ensure the headset is fully seated. Re-check the top cap's tightness.
  • Align the stem with the front wheel. Using a torque wrench and 4 mm hex bit, torque the stem bolts (D) to 6 Nm / 53 in-lbf.

You shouldn't be able to rotate the stem spacers by hand if the system is sufficiently tightened.

CABLE ROUTING

CABLE ROUTING

information The housings and hose must be installed without the fork installed in the frame.

REAR BRAKE

(RED)

  • Starting at the exit port on the inside surface of the non-drive side of the chainstay, route the hose through the chainstay until it exits the nylon guide tube at the chainstay bridge.
  • Guide the hose up the down tube until it exits the head tube, then slide a Churro (foam tube) onto the hose.
  • Once the Churro is installed, guide the hose back down into the down tube, then guide the hose out the port on the non-drive side of the head tube.

MECHANICAL REAR DERAILLEUR

(GREEN)

  • Starting at the exit port in front of and below the drive side dropout, route the housing through the chainstay until it exits the nylon guide tube at the chainstay bridge.
  • Guide the housing through the ICR funnel and up the down tube until it exits the head tube, then slide a "Churro" foam tube onto the housing.
  • Once the Churro is installed, guide the housing back down into the down tube, then guide the housing out the port on the non-drive side of the head tube.

DROPPER POST

(BLUE)

Before routing the housing, remove the bottom bracket so you can access the housing to help route it past the bottom bracket ICR funnel up the seat tube.

The dropper housing is easiest to route after the brake hose and derailleur housing.

  • Starting at the head tube, route the housing down the down tube and up the seat tube until it exits the seat tube.
  • Slide a "Churro" foam tube onto the housing and route it into the down tube.
  • Once the Churro is installed, guide the housing back down into the down tube, then guide the housing out the port on the drive side of the head tube.

HEAD TUBE ICR PORT

  • Slide the non-drive side ICR port over the shift housing and brake hose then assemble it to the frame. Using a 2.5 mm hex key, tighten the bolt to 2 Nm / 18 in-lbf.
  • Slide the drive side ICR port over the dropper housing and assemble it to the frame. Using a 2.5 mm hex key tighten the bolt to 2 Nm / 18 in-lbf.

For easier installation of the ICR port, thread the ICR port bolt into the frame a few turns, then flex the plastic port over the bolt before tightening.

FRONT BRAKE

FRONT BRAKE CABLE ROUTING

  • Install the brake caliper on the fork leg and attach the brake hose to the caliper according to the component manufacturer's instructions.
  • Run the brake hose up the inside of the fork leg and then attach to the hose guide (A) according to the component manufacturer's instructions.
  • Install the fork according to the steps outlined in section Headset/fork and stem assembly and complete the front brake installation according to the brake manufacturer's instructions.

AIR SHOCK SETUP

The rear shock can be set up in different ways depending on the type of ride you want—from firm to soft and everything in between.

information Setting up and adjusting the rear shock and fork on the bicycle requires special tools and skills. If you don't feel comfortable completing these procedures on your own, please visit an Authorized Specialized Retailer for assistance.
When setting suspension, always set the shock first and fork second for air pressure, rebound, then compression.
Make sure you're wearing all gear that would normally be worn on a ride (shoes, helmet, hydration pack if used, etc.).
Please visit the suspension calculator tool at www.specialized. com. The suspension calculator provides a personalized baseline suspension setup recommendation based upon your specific height and weight. The baseline information should be considered as a suspension setup starting point. Adjust your suspension as needed based on your experience/preference and terrain conditions.


Do not exceed the shock's maximum pressure, refer to the manufacturer's instructions or the shock label for specifications.

SETTING AIR PRESSURE

(SAG)
Sag is the amount the suspension compresses when the rider, including riding gear, is seated on the bicycle in the riding position.
It is measured by the distance between the O-ring (A) and the shock body's seal (B) after the rider's weight has been applied to the bicycle with no bounce.
The correct sag allows the wheels to maintain traction without using too much travel reserved for shock absorption. More sag increases small bump sensitivity, while less sag decreases small bump sensitivity.

  • Set the shock compression adjuster (D) to the full open or closed position and set the rebound adjuster (C) to the middle of the click range.
  • Remove the air cap, attach a high-pressure shock pump to the air valve and set your shock pressure based on the personalized baseline suspension setup from the suspension calculator.
  • Push the O-ring (A) against the seal (B), then mount the bicycle while propped up against a wall and sit in the saddle in a normal riding position, without bouncing the suspension.
  • Measure the distance between the O-ring (A) and the shock seal (B). Once the sag is close to the desired setting, increase or decrease the pressure as needed in 5 psi / 0.35 bar increments until the desired sag is achieved.

information When the pressure is correctly set, sag should measure approximately 11 - 12 mm or 27 - 30% of the stroke. If the rider is approaching 127 kg / 280 lbs, sag may exceed the bicycle's prescribed amount.
Best practice is to equalize the air pressure about every 50 psi / 3.5 bar. Cycle the shock or fork after the air pressure has been adjusted.
information Refer to the shock manufacturer's instructions for more information on setting sag and shock setup.

ADJUSTING REBOUND

The rebound damping adjuster (C) controls the rate at which the shock returns after it is compressed. Each rear shock has a range of rebound clicks to fine-tune the rebound return rate.
A slower rebound is ideal for heavier riders, slower speeds, and bigger hits. A faster rebound is best suited for lighter riders, higher speeds, small bumps, and more traction.
Adjust the rebound based on the range provided for your bicycle setup and rider weight in the Suspension Calculator on www.specialized.com, as well as other factors like rider experience/preference and terrain conditions. You can fine-tune the settings during the ride if necessary.

It is best not to veer too far from the recommended clicks, since being too far out of the accepted range can negatively impact the ride experience.

ADJUSTING COMPRESSION

The compression damping adjuster (D) controls the amount of support of the shock platform, that is the shock's ability to resist pedaling forces. Please refer to the suspension manual for specifics about the compression options provided by your suspension. Typically, a suspension is equipped with some or all of the following settings:

  • Open: Optimized for descending.
  • Closed: The firmest setting for maximum pedaling efficiency.

SUSPENSION MAINTENANCE

Generally speaking, the rear shock and fork should be serviced after every 50, 100, and 200 hours of accumulated riding time. The type of service required is determined by the type of riding you do, the terrain you ride, the weather you ride in, and your skill level. You may also find that you need to service the rear shock and/or fork earlier than expected depending on the factors mentioned above. For more information on servicing your rear shock and fork, visit sram.com or ridefox.com.

information Suspension maintenance requires specials tools and skills. If you don't feel comfortable completing your own suspension maintenance, please see an Authorized Specialized Retailer.

GENERAL NOTES ABOUT MAINTENANCE

This bicycle is a high-performance bicycle. All regular maintenance, troubleshooting, repair, and parts replacement must be performed by an Authorized Specialized Retailer. For general information regarding the maintenance of your bicycle, please refer to the Owner's Manual. In addition, routinely perform a mechanical safety check before each ride as described in the Owner's Manual.

  • Great care should be taken to not damage the frame material. Damage may result in a loss of structural integrity, which may result in a catastrophic failure. This damage may or may not be visible during inspection. Before each ride, and after any crash, you should carefully inspect your bicycle for any gouging, scratches through the paint, chipping, bending, or any other signs of damage. Do not ride if your bicycle shows any of these signs. After any crash, and before you ride any further, take your bicycle to an Authorized Specialized Retailer for a complete inspection.
  • While riding, listen for any creaks as a creak can be a sign of a problem with one or more components. Periodically examine all surfaces in bright sunlight to check for any small hairline cracks or fatigue at stress points, such as welds, seams, holes, and points of contact with other parts. If you hear any creaks, see signs of excessive wear, discover any cracks, no matter how small, or any damage to the bicycle, immediately stop riding the bicycle and have it inspected by your Authorized Specialized Retailer.
  • Lifespan and the type and frequency of maintenance depends on many factors, such as use, rider weight, riding conditions, and/or impacts. Components may be subject to increased wear at different rates, depending on the component. Drivetrain and brake components are especially subject to wear. Periodically have your Authorized Specialized Retailer inspect your bicycle and components for wear.
  • Exposure to harsh elements, especially salty air (such as riding near the ocean or in the winter), can result in galvanic corrosion of components such as the crank spindle and bolts, which can accelerate wear and shorten the lifespan. Dirt can also accelerate wear of surfaces and bearings. The surfaces of the bicycle should be cleaned before each ride. The bicycle should also be maintained regularly by an Authorized Specialized Retailer, which means it should be cleaned, lubricated, and (partially) disassembled and inspected for signs of corrosion and/or cracks. If you notice any signs of corrosion or cracking on the frame or any component, the affected item must be replaced.
  • Regularly clean and lubricate the drivetrain according to the drivetrain manufacturer's instructions.
  • Do not use a high pressure water spray to wash your bicycle. Even water from a garden hose can penetrate seals and water may seep into components, such as cranks, bearings, or electrical components, potentially causing damage. Use a clean, damp cloth and bicycle cleaning agents (where appropriate) for cleaning.
  • Do not expose the bicycle to prolonged direct sunlight or excessive heat, such as inside a car parked in the sun or near a heat source such as a radiator.


Failure to follow the instructions in this section may result in damage to the components on your bicycle and will void your warranty, but, most importantly, may result in serious personal injury or death. If your bicycle exhibits any signs of damage, do not use it and immediately bring it to your Authorized Specialized Retailer for inspection.


Use a sturdy repair stand to support the bicycle during assembly or maintenance and a bicycle rack for transportation.
When placing the frame and/or bicycle in a repair stand, clamp the stand to the seatpost and not the frame. Clamping the frame can cause damage to the frame that may or may not be visible.

SPECIALIZED BICYCLE COMPONENTS
15130 Concord Circle, Morgan Hill, CA 95037 (408) 779-6229

Documents / Resources

References

Download manual

Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.

Download Specialized CHISEL Manual

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