Specialized to release 29ers later this week?
March 21st, 2007 by Tim GrahlI just got a peek at an email that was allegedly sent to Specialized dealers today announcing that the “2008 Specialized product lineup will include a number of mountain bike models with 29-inch wheels.”
They gave a bit of an excuse for not already releasing a big wheeled model saying it would have forced them to “rush to market” and they didn’t want to “risk [their] reputation and [the dealer's] livelihood.”
From there they talked a bit about Specialized’s product manager, Brandon Sloan, and the rest of the R&D team who “carefully studied, refined and improved every element of the 29″ wheel platform” and they worked closely with Ned Overend to do so.
Their first public announcement is scheduled for later this week and will be done on their club site, www.specializedriders.com, and will include “exact models, pricing, specs, frame material and other details.”
This email was sent anonymously so it could all be a huge hoax. If so… you got me! Otherwise, it looks like Specialized, who said they would never release a 29er, is finally jumping on board. It better be good.
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It is true but you will be waiting a little longer for exact details of bikes, prices etc.
The first release to generate buzz will just be an official ‘we are making them, they will be out in ‘08′ rap.
I am sure some ’spy’ shots will now be more readily available.
They are still keeping them under wraps at the ‘office’ as a few people have been out for the latest and greatest training to the BIG S house and there have been none sighted.
The reason they are not being sighted around Morgan Hill is because they are testing at spots away from where eyes are looking. We have had several confirmed sightings of an Epic 29″er proto being ridden, for instance.
Most of these sightings are quite far away from Spechy HQ, so it’s no wonder nothing is being seen there.
Well, they are mentioned on their site: http://www.specializedriders.com/post/show/46
I think this photo caption is hilarious!
“29″ Specialized Fast Trak
Not only do we have 29″ MTB’s coming, we’re making tires to match!”
More like they are making bikes to match their tires.
They first made that tire 3 years ago and have been selling it for more than a year. Then added the 29″ Resolution a few months ago
shiggy: That IS funny! And it is odd. I mean, what do you suppose the Riders Club folks that follow Specialized’s mountain bike stuff think? That copy that goes with the post on that site is just as condescending.
I don’t know who’s in charge of their marketing and P.R. concerning 29″ers, but they seem hell bent on screwing up. Time and time again we see it. It’s hilarious, crazy, and sad all at the same time.
I heard that Specialized sent out an e-mail to our shop’s ‘higher ups’ saying “yes we are making some 29ers, now quit asking!”