its 29” for sure, L is 21lbs, shock sits much closer to the top tube, WC no more
I’m thinking specialized is speed running this bike because they are going to get a 32er out soon after. They spent money on the design and molds so they might as well sell something. Then once 32er comes out it might vanish.
sounds as good a theory as any for why they’re releasing the E9 only 2 years after the E8 which seems to have been well received and not in need of replacement.
interesting that they have been able to accelerate the release to a year ahead of when it would presumably have been planned for until quite recently. i wonder how much stock will be available initially
Blevins did not race one this weekend and he’s their top male rider. So…..
I am no expert in bike design and launch schedules, but can’t imagine this is something they are rushing through. I would think the launch of a new bike is something planned a least a year out if not longer.
Agreed. I also have a hard time believing that they were caught off guard by the release of 32” tires to the point of “oh crap, we should hurry up and release this bike ASAP since we had no clue 32” was going to be a thing”
My LBS says it comes out at Sea Otter next week. 120mm rear tucked in the frame like the outgoing epic world cup. I bought my epic 8 in September 2024. 
Top level bike under or over $15000???
I have a reservation down for one at my local dealership.
why the sad face? Is your bike imploding on release day of it‘s next iteration? The Epic8 is already a top level bike. The E8 was slightly different than the E7 and I wouldn’t dare say better because they‘re so similar. If E9 is still 29“ I‘d expect a slightly lighter bike and no other groundbreaking changes. E10 with 32“ is the next step up.
The current S-works (not on sale) is already $14.999.. I can’t imagine it being any less.
Sorry about your E8. If it’s a large, I’ll give you $1,000 to take it off your hands. 
Wait, as an act of generosity I’ll offer $1100 to take that obsolete pile of junk off your hands!
what’s the frame weight? That’s the only thing that matters…
What do you mean? Clearly the 9 is 12.5% better than the 8.
Tucked in shock is not my thing so no lust there.
My LBS told me that “can’t confirm details but you most likely gonna see something within a month” when I asked about Epic 9
It would seem pre orders may be happening now.
Where are your Pre ordering?
This is in the UK (via dealer)
Lucky. (I say as if I had 15k to drop on a new bike right now)