GW » the first Enduro SX's
Ba-boom!
I bought this frame (literally, THIS frame) new in 2003 - my first suspension bike. I was a teenage back then, was a massive purchase for me even though it was quite cheap by today's standards. Did a few DH races on it, sold it on at some point, a good 7 years ago at least.
Spotted it on pinkbike this week - cheap, local... couldn't resist.
Going to swap over all the parts off my current main MTB and see how it rides. The frames heavy, but I'm hoping its going to build up into an awesome fun little bike. having looked at an old photo of when I had it built up reminds me how much better the componentry we have now is, more advanced forks, much, much lighter wheels etc - so it should be really nice.
#
As purchased.
Had a VERY stuck Bottom bracket. Removed by being smart not a brute. Those headset cups are even the ones I fit back in '03. Unfortunately the supplied Thomson post that came with the frame has disappeared, though I'll forgive that.
This morning looked like this -

All bearings pulled, which were seized practically solid. Right mess.
Now all the bearings seats have been cleaned up. I've turned a new main pivot on the lathe (It was wrecked) and cleaned up the linkage.
Shock removed and cleaned up - Contemplating buying an Air shock for it, but its 6.5 x 1.5 which is actually pretty rare these days! I'll wait and see how its rides first. Maybe get the Vanilla R push tuned instead.
I was going to paint the frame (mate in a body-shop) but frankly its not worth the effort - you only end up throwing off some rocks on the first ride.
So 800 grit, some G3 compound and some polish, and its come up lovely - lots of chips, but the paint that remains is nice and shiny white again, not dull beige.
I am properly excited about building this one up again.
For those un-familiar with the frame - Its an 'Enduro SX Supercross',
a pretty rare model that Specialized made in 2003 - based on the Enduro, beefed up, extra bracing, custom geometry, custom linkage etc. Just over 4" travel.
Its the bike that led to the introduction of the SX-trail, and we know how popular that got.
Low BB, slack headangle, very much like some really up-to date mid travel frames out now. Two options by flipping the link. Just the slack seat angle to contend with.