NBD: Specialized P.Series in 20in, 24in, 26in or 27.5in

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The Specialized P range hasn’t been updated since approximately yonks* ago, the new dirtjumpin’ pumptrackin’ range comprises four models.

*2015

The P.1 has 20in wheels. The P.2 has 24in wheels. The P.3 and P.4 come with 26in and 27.5in wheels respectively (but can accept either).

Although fairly jump/track centric bikes, the new P.Series models can accept stealth dropper posts and rear derailleurs should you feel the need to broaden their remit a bit.

Specialized P.Series UK pricing

  • P.1 – £750
  • P.2 – £1100
  • P.3 – £1400
  • P.4 – £1400
  • P.3 FRAME – £550
  • P.4 FRAME – £750

Specialized press release:

UNMATCHED VERSATILITY FROM PUMP TRACK TO TRAIL FOR RUTHLESS PROGRESSION

This totally redesigned P.Series gives riders of all sizes a jumping off point to a life on bikes. The lightweight, but tough alloy frame is designed to take all the hits and keep rolling—across all frame and wheel size options. Our approach to these robust bikes centers around delivering a simple, high-quality platform that’s versatile for all riders, and packs in category-first features that make a difference to the rider.

SLEEK SIMPLICITY

Starting with the durable lightweight alloy frame, the new P.Series stands up to the demands of dirt jump progression. Its cables are internally routed, adding to its sleek presence and tangle-free riding.

A purpose-built bike like this used to be available in minimal size options. That’s why we took a step back to design a new range of inclusive sizes. From a 20-inch to a 27.5-inch that are all equally at home the skatepark, trails, and dirt jumps.

AT HOME ON DIRT JUMPS, TRAILS, AND THE SKATE PARK

But how is a single-purpose bike like a dirt jumper considered versatile? We expanded its capability, while at the center, keeping it a flow DJ rig. For starters, it’s dropper ready and derailleur compatible. You can ride it out your door comfortably, all the way to the bike park—and make a pitstop to session along the way.

Spec’d on the new P.Series is our all-new 2.1-inch Kicker tire. A fast rolling, low-profile tire with block-in-block treads that hook up with ease. The new frame accepts up to a 2.35” trail tire, too. Bringing your 27.5” to the local blue flow-trail could add a whole new dimension to the local laps or daily commute.

“It’s really light and easy to move around, you can spin it like a BMX. It feels nice to whip but is also stable. The tires and hubs roll well. Crank size is good, some 24” bikes have too long of cranks, making it difficult to bar spin as you hit your foot. And it looks sick, color is awesome! Specialized has done a great job and really glad we stuck with the 24”
-Harry Schofield

BUILT TO FLY

Like everything brandishing the big red ‘S’, it’s gotta have performance. And the P.Series is no exception. One major upgrade is the adoption of a boost-spaced rear end for added stiffness and durability, ensuring that even notorious wheel destroyer, Nicholi Rogatkin, could complete a Crankworx Slopestyle series with wheels intact and on top of the podium. The boost hub also enhances precision and rigidity, providing extra comfort for those pushing their limits.

Additionally, the new drop-out design offers extensive customization options with 15mm of adjustment for both geared and single-speed setups, ensuring chain tensioning and stability. The updated design eliminates any chance of axle slip or creaking, while the tapered headtube and threaded bottom bracket enhance overall stiffness and reliability, allowing for easy maintenance.

A fool proof—never slip—design, connects an MTB standard 12x148mm thru axle to an innovative horizontal dropout enabling single speed, or geared set ups.

P.SERIES FAQ

27.5” IS NOT A TYPICAL WHEEL SIZE FOR A DJ BIKE, WHY DID SPECIALIZED DECIDE TO CREATE THE P.4 USING A 27.5” WHEEL?

We saw the clear need for a larger frame size in the lineup, and something that feels more like a mountain bike rather than a classic DJ bike. The P.4 will fit taller riders who want a roomier feel on the bike, or any rider that is looking for a familiar ride feel to their trail bike. Plus there are the added benefits of the faster rolling, larger wheels and the abundance of aftermarket 27.5” wheels and tires available that makes custom frame up builds easy.

WHAT WHEEL SIZES ARE AVAILABLE ON THE NEW P.SERIES MODELS?

P.4: 27.5”, P.3: 26”, P.2: 24”, P.1: 20”

HOW DO I SET UP MY BIKE WITH A GEARED DRIVETRAIN?

All P.Series models include a derailleur hanger and narrow/wide front chainring compatible with most 9, 10 and 11spd drivetrains. P.1 specifically has a traditional rear hub with an HG driver body so that a cassette can be easily installed. P.2, 3 and 4, use a Single Speed rear hub that will not work with a cassette. In this case, a new hub or complete rear wheel would be required to install a geared drivetrain.

THE P.1 HAS A RIGID FORK, WHAT IF I WANT TO INSTALL A SUSPENSION FORK?

No problem, the P.1’s rigid fork geometry was designed around an 80mm travel suspension fork, almost any 80mm suspension fork design for a 20” wheel can be added.

I BOUGHT A P.4 FRAMESET, WHERE DO I FIND A 100MM 27.5” FORK?

The Marzocchi Bomber Z1 will be offered in an aftermarket configuration at 100mm travel. Additionally, there will be a 100mm air spring assembly available to convert longer travel Bomber Z1 configurations.

I WANT TO BUY A P.3 BUT LIKE THE IDEA OF 27.5” WHEELS, WILL THEY FIT?

Yes, The P.3 and P.4 frames will both fit either 26” or 27.5” wheels. Keep in mind that the BB height will change as there is no geo adjust features on this frame outside of the adjustable sliding dropout. Also, depending on tire size, you may not be able to achieve the full range of adjustment if you are sizing up to a 27.5” wheel on P.3. Lastly, swapping to the appropriately sized front fork is recommended if changing from the spec’d wheel size.

WHAT IS THE HUB SPACING AND CHAIN LINE?

148mm Rear. 52mm chain line.

WHAT IS THE SEAT TUBE DIAMETER?

30.9mm.

WHAT IS THE LARGEST TIRE I CAN FIT?

Each frame is designed with enough clearance to fit any Specialized tire up to 2.35” in width.

HOW MUCH FORK TRAVEL ARE THESE SPECIALIZED P BIKES DESIGNED FOR?

100mm fork travel (80mm P.1)

specialized.com

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Orange Switch 6er. Stif Squatcher. Schwalbe Magic Mary Purple Addix front. Maxxis DHR II 3C MaxxTerra rear. Coil fan. Ebikes are not evil. I have been a writer for nigh on 20 years, a photographer for 25 years and a mountain biker for 30 years. I have written countless magazine and website features and route guides for the UK mountain bike press, most notably for the esteemed and highly regarded Singletrackworld. Although I am a Lancastrian, I freely admit that West Yorkshire is my favourite place to ride. Rarely a week goes by without me riding and exploring the South Pennines.

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