{"id":57668,"date":"2023-12-10T14:30:46","date_gmt":"2023-12-10T13:30:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/?p=757226"},"modified":"2023-12-11T11:47:31","modified_gmt":"2023-12-11T10:47:31","slug":"world-cup-xc-bikes-head-to-head-specialized-s-works-epic-world-cup-vs-trek-supercaliber-slr-9-9-xx-axs-gen-2","status":"publish","type":"rss_feed","link":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/rss_feed\/world-cup-xc-bikes-head-to-head-specialized-s-works-epic-world-cup-vs-trek-supercaliber-slr-9-9-xx-axs-gen-2\/","title":{"rendered":"World Cup XC bikes head to head: Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup vs Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"rssexcerpt\"> Can these cutting-edge full-suspension mountain bikes kill off the cross-country hardtail for good? <\/p><p class=\"rssauthor\">By Tom Marvin\n                \t\t<\/p><p class=\"rssbyline\">Published: Sunday, 10 December 2023 at 13:30 PM<\/p><hr class=\"no-tts wp-block-separator\"\/><?xml version=\"1.0\" encoding=\"UTF-8\" standalone=\"yes\"?>\n<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<html><body> <iframe title=\"Trek Supercaliber Vs Specialized Epic Review | XC Race Bikes Showdown\" width=\"200\" height=\"113\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/-5exVh4Ld0M?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" allowfullscreen=\"\"\/>\n<p>There\u2019s no denying it, we\u2019re seeing fewer and fewer hardtails on the start line at cross-country events, thanks in part to how tough the tracks have become.<\/p>\n<p>But while full-suspension mountain bikes can add comfort and confidence, many riders still yearn for that solid connection between the front and rear triangles, and the efficiency and urgency only the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/advice\/buyers-guides\/best-hardtail-mountain-bikes\/\">best hardtails<\/a> can provide when stamping on the pedals.<\/p>\n<p>You only need to look at some of the bikes being raced in the World Cup XC Short Track (XCC) series to see this. C\u00e9rvelo, for example, has been replacing the rear shock of its <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/reviews\/bikes\/mountain-bikes\/full-suspension-mountain-bikes\/cervelo-zfs-5-xx-sl-axs-review\/\">ZFS-5 full-suspension bike<\/a> with a solid link, effectively turning it into a hardtail.<\/p>\n<p>The shock has then been slotted back in ahead of the longer Olympic-distance XCO race a couple of days later (with the same bike needing to be used for both events).<\/p>\n<p>This compromised approach may well pay off when putting the power down, but could throw a spanner in the works when things get technical on the track.<\/p>\n<div class=\"image-handler__container image-handler__container--aspect\" style=\"padding-bottom: calc(100% \/ 1.501210653753);\"> <picture> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" 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data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=298%2C199, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=598%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=898%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1198%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=354%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=708%2C472 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1063%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1417%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" 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data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=403%2C269, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=808%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1213%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=403%2C269, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=808%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1213%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=553%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1107%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=553%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1107%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=619%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1239%2C826 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=619%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1239%2C826 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=406%2C271, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=814%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1222%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=406%2C271, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=814%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1222%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=555%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1110%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=555%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1110%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <img class=\"wp-image-757241 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image--aspect no-wrap js-lazyload\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-13-bc8f4f8.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=619%2C413\" width=\"620\" height=\"413\" alt=\"Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2 and Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup full suspension mountain bikes being ridden through woodland\" title=\"Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 vs Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup - 13\"\/>\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div><div class=\"caption-hold\"><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\"><span class=\"caption-copy\"><i class=\"icon-arrow icon-camera-circle\"\/> Rob and Tom put each bike through an exacting exam \u2013 and then swapped.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\"im-image-caption\"> <i>Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p>So, how do you balance efficiency and power transfer with grip and control? Can you have your cake and eat it? Trek and Specialized seem to think so.<\/p>\n<p>Their latest XC race machines promise the feel of a hardtail when you\u2019re on the gas, but should still offer the bump absorption and more forgiving, traction-rich ride you\u2019d expect from a full-suspension bike.<\/p>\n<p>The two brands have approached frame and suspension design slightly differently, although the end goal is similar. Which is best, and should we be bidding the cross-country hardtail a fond farewell?<\/p>\n<p>To find out, Tom Marvin\u2019s been hammering the Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup on UK singletrack loops, as well as taking on a multi-day marathon event in Menorca.<\/p>\n<p>Meanwhile, Rob Weaver has been using the Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2 for mixed local laps with steep, treacherous sections and fast-paced, rough trail-centre rides.<\/p>\n<p>After comparing notes, chasing each other around the trails and, finally, swapping between the bikes, they\u2019ve reached their verdicts.<\/p>\n<h2>Introducing the bikes<\/h2>\n<h3>Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup<\/h3>\n<div class=\"image-handler__container image-handler__container--full\" style=\"padding-bottom: calc(100% * (1065 \/ 1600));\"> <picture> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" 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data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=300%2C200, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=600%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=900%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1200%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=355%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=710%2C473 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1065%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1420%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=355%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=710%2C473 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1065%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1420%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=405%2C270, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=810%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1215%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=405%2C270, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=810%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1215%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=554%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1108%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=554%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1108%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1240%2C825 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1240%2C825 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=408%2C272, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=816%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1224%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=408%2C272, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=816%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1224%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=556%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1112%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=556%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1112%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <img class=\"wp-image-757236 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image--full no-wrap js-lazyload\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-08-175031c.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413\" width=\"620\" height=\"413\" alt=\"Angled pack shot of the Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup full suspension mountain bike\" title=\"Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 vs Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup - 08\"\/>\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div><div class=\"caption-hold\"><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\"><span class=\"caption-copy\"><i class=\"icon-arrow icon-camera-circle\"\/> The Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup gets 75mm of rear suspension.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\"im-image-caption\"> <i>Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p>The Specialized Epic World Cup is the bike the Big S believes is going to replace the XC hardtail.<\/p>\n<p>The World Cup sits alongside the longer-travel, more traditional Epic in Specialized\u2019s line-up.<\/p>\n<p>The brand says its 75mm of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/features\/the-ultimate-guide-to-mountain-bike-rear-suspension-systems\/\">rear suspension<\/a> gives you the snap out of the gate of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/advice\/buyers-guides\/best-hardtail-mountain-bikes\/\">best hardtails<\/a>, with at least some of the smoothing characteristics of its full-suspension sibling.<\/p>\n<p>While 75mm doesn\u2019t sound like much, the bike is designed to be run with minimal sag (zero to 10 per cent), so you should get almost as much usable travel as on a 100mm full-supension bike run with 25 per cent sag.<\/p>\n<p>The custom RockShox shock gives you control over the negative air spring to alter the suspension characteristics of the bike.<\/p>\n<p>You can switch to No Gulp for a full-throttle zero-sag, hardtail-feeling race rig, or give yourself the Full Gulp treatment with 10 per cent sag for top grip and a smoother ride. There\u2019s a 5 per cent setting, too.<\/p>\n<p>A 110mm fork, carbon finishing kit and flyweight hoops complete the picture.<\/p>\n<h3>Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2<\/h3>\n<div class=\"image-handler__container image-handler__container--full\" style=\"padding-bottom: calc(100% * (1064 \/ 1600));\"> <picture> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=300%2C200, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=600%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=900%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1200%2C798 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=300%2C200, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=600%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=900%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1200%2C798 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=355%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=710%2C472 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1065%2C708 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1420%2C944 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=355%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=710%2C472 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1065%2C708 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1420%2C944 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=405%2C269, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=810%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1215%2C808 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=405%2C269, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=810%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1215%2C808 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=554%2C368, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1108%2C737 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=554%2C368, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1108%2C737 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C412, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1240%2C825 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C412, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1240%2C825 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=408%2C271, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=816%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1224%2C814 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=408%2C271, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=816%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1224%2C814 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=556%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1112%2C739 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=556%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1112%2C739 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <img class=\"wp-image-757230 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image--full no-wrap js-lazyload\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-02-e694adc.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C412\" width=\"620\" height=\"413\" alt=\"Pack shot of the Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2 full suspension mountain bike\" title=\"Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 vs Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup - 02\"\/>\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div><div class=\"caption-hold\"><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\"><span class=\"caption-copy\"><i class=\"icon-arrow icon-camera-circle\"\/> Trek has increased rear travel on the Supercaliber to 80mm.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\"im-image-caption\"> <i>Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p>The Trek Supercaliber only has 5mm more bounce than the Specialized, but you set it up more like a regular mountain bike.<\/p>\n<p>Like Specialized, Trek has designed the bike to offer the pedalling efficiency of a hardtail, but give you enough cushioning to handle the impacts and compressions you\u2019re likely to encounter when hammering around a modern XC track.<\/p>\n<p>While the US brand still sells its Procaliber hardtail, it\u2019s been a while since we\u2019ve seen any of Trek\u2019s racers rock up to the start line on one. Instead, it\u2019s the Supercaliber that\u2019s the firm favourite \u2013 a bike designed to bridge the gap between the Procaliber and longer-travel <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/reviews\/bikes\/mountain-bikes\/full-suspension-mountain-bikes\/trek-top-fuel-8\/\">Top Fuel<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Trek has upped rear-wheel travel on the second-generation Supercaliber frames by 20mm to 80mm.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s controlled by the IsoStrut shock, developed in collaboration with RockShox. This is no ordinary shock: it\u2019s designed to be an integral part of the frame structure in a bid to boost stiffness and pedal efficiency.<\/p>\n<p>Up-front sits a top-tier 110mm-travel fork, while the parts bolted to this fancy frame are some of the best you can buy.<\/p>\n<hr\/>\n<h2>Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup vs Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2 frame details and geometry<\/h2>\n<div class=\"image-handler__container image-handler__container--full\" style=\"padding-bottom: calc(100% * (1065 \/ 1600));\"> <picture> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=300%2C200, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=600%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=900%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1200%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=300%2C200, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=600%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=900%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1200%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=355%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=710%2C473 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1065%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1420%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=355%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=710%2C473 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1065%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1420%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=405%2C270, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=810%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1215%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=405%2C270, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=810%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1215%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=554%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1108%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=554%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1108%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1240%2C825 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1240%2C825 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=408%2C272, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=816%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1224%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=408%2C272, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=816%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1224%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=556%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1112%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=556%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1112%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <img class=\"wp-image-757233 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image--full no-wrap js-lazyload\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-05-c7ec9f0.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413\" width=\"620\" height=\"413\" alt=\"Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2 full suspension mountain bike\" title=\"Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 vs Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup - 05\"\/>\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div><div class=\"caption-hold\"><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\"><span class=\"caption-copy\"><i class=\"icon-arrow icon-camera-circle\"\/> The Trek\/RockShox IsoStrut SIDLuxe shock is made specifically for the Supercaliber.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\"im-image-caption\"> <i>Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p>At the core of each of these bikes is a frame that makes them different from a lot of the competition, thanks largely to how their rear suspension works.<\/p>\n<p>The S-Works moniker highlights that this is Specialized\u2019s top-end chassis, built using its latest FACT 12m carbon fibre. Half-hidden within the top tube, the shock is driven by a tiny linkage.<\/p>\n<p>At the rear, the stays flex a touch to allow for smooth movement of the suspension. Further forward, there\u2019s space for a couple of bottle cages.<\/p>\n<p>Cables run neatly inside the frame, entering via the headset. Shaped and smoothed stem spacers continue the sleek lines, while a sloped top tube gives the frame a compact look.<\/p>\n<p>The Epic World Cup features geometry inspired by today\u2019s ever-more-technical XC courses. At 66.5 degrees, the head angle is a full degree slacker than on the regular Epic.<\/p>\n<div class=\"image-handler__container image-handler__container--full\" style=\"padding-bottom: calc(100% * (1065 \/ 1600));\"> <picture> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=300%2C200, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=600%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=900%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1200%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=300%2C200, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=600%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=900%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1200%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=355%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=710%2C473 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1065%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1420%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=355%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=710%2C473 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1065%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1420%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=405%2C270, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=810%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1215%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=405%2C270, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=810%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1215%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=554%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1108%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=554%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1108%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1240%2C825 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1240%2C825 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=408%2C272, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=816%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1224%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=408%2C272, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=816%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1224%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=556%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1112%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=556%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1112%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <img class=\"wp-image-757232 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image--full no-wrap js-lazyload\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-04-219024b.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413\" width=\"620\" height=\"413\" alt=\"Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2 full suspension mountain bike\" title=\"Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 vs Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup - 04\"\/>\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div><div class=\"caption-hold\"><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\"><span class=\"caption-copy\"><i class=\"icon-arrow icon-camera-circle\"\/> No fancy Brain tech here, but you do get a twist-action remote fork lockout.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\"im-image-caption\"> <i>Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p>On paper, the seat tube angle is more relaxed, too, at 74.5 degrees. However, that figure won\u2019t change much when the bike is weighted (due to the minimal sag), whereas on a normal full-sus bike, the dynamic geometry is often quite different from the static figures.<\/p>\n<h3>Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup geometry<\/h3>\n<div id=\"footable_parent_723299\" class=\" footable_parent ninja_table_wrapper loading_ninja_table wp_table_data_press_parent semantic_ui \"> <table data-ninja_table_instance=\"ninja_table_instance_0\" data-footable_id=\"723299\" data-filter-delay=\"1000\" aria-label=\"Specialized Epic WC geo.csv\" id=\"footable_723299\" data-unique_identifier=\"ninja_table_unique_id_686246056_723299\" class=\" foo-table ninja_footable foo_table_723299 ninja_table_unique_id_686246056_723299 ui table nt_type_legacy_table selectable celled striped vertical_centered footable-paging-right ninja_table_search_disabled ninja_table_pro\"> <colgroup> <col class=\"ninja_column_0 \"\/> <col class=\"ninja_column_1 \"\/> <col class=\"ninja_column_2 \"\/> <col class=\"ninja_column_3 \"\/> <col class=\"ninja_column_4 \"\/> <\/colgroup> <thead>\n<tr class=\"footable-header\"> <th scope=\"col\" class=\"ninja_column_0 ninja_clmn_nm_ninja_column_1 \"\/><th scope=\"col\" class=\"ninja_column_1 ninja_clmn_nm_s \">S<\/th><th scope=\"col\" class=\"ninja_column_2 ninja_clmn_nm_m \">M<\/th><th scope=\"col\" class=\"ninja_column_3 ninja_clmn_nm_l \">L<\/th><th scope=\"col\" class=\"ninja_column_4 ninja_clmn_nm_xl \">XL<\/th><\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody> <tr data-row_id=\"15123\" class=\"ninja_table_row_0 nt_row_id_15123\"> <td><b> Stack <\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>600<\/td><td>600<\/td><td>614<\/td><td>628<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"15124\" class=\"ninja_table_row_1 nt_row_id_15124\"> <td><b> Reach <\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>415<\/td><td>440<\/td><td>465<\/td><td>490<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"15125\" class=\"ninja_table_row_2 nt_row_id_15125\"> <td><b> Head tube length <\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>93<\/td><td>95<\/td><td>110<\/td><td>125<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"15126\" class=\"ninja_table_row_3 nt_row_id_15126\"> <td><b> Head tube angle <\/b> (degrees)<\/td><td>66.5<\/td><td>66.5<\/td><td>66.5<\/td><td>66.5<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"15127\" class=\"ninja_table_row_4 nt_row_id_15127\"> <td><b> Bottom bracket height <\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>313<\/td><td>313<\/td><td>313<\/td><td>313<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"15128\" class=\"ninja_table_row_5 nt_row_id_15128\"> <td><b> Bottom bracket drop <\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>58<\/td><td>57<\/td><td>57<\/td><td>57<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"15129\" class=\"ninja_table_row_6 nt_row_id_15129\"> <td><b> Trail <\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>113<\/td><td>113<\/td><td>113<\/td><td>113<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"15130\" class=\"ninja_table_row_7 nt_row_id_15130\"> <td><b> Fork length <\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>516<\/td><td>516<\/td><td>516<\/td><td>516<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"15131\" class=\"ninja_table_row_8 nt_row_id_15131\"> <td><b> Fork offset <\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>44<\/td><td>44<\/td><td>44<\/td><td>44<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"15132\" class=\"ninja_table_row_9 nt_row_id_15132\"> <td><b> Front center <\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>701<\/td><td>726<\/td><td>757<\/td><td>788<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"15133\" class=\"ninja_table_row_10 nt_row_id_15133\"> <td><b> Chainstay length <\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>430<\/td><td>430<\/td><td>430<\/td><td>430<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"15134\" class=\"ninja_table_row_11 nt_row_id_15134\"> <td><b> Wheelbase <\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>1,124<\/td><td>1,150<\/td><td>1,181<\/td><td>1,212<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"15135\" class=\"ninja_table_row_12 nt_row_id_15135\"> <td><b> Standover height <\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>761<\/td><td>764<\/td><td>774<\/td><td>786<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"15136\" class=\"ninja_table_row_13 nt_row_id_15136\"> <td><b> Seat tube length <\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>395<\/td><td>410<\/td><td>450<\/td><td>500<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"15137\" class=\"ninja_table_row_14 nt_row_id_15137\"> <td><b> Seat tube angle <\/b> (degrees)<\/td><td>74.5<\/td><td>74.5<\/td><td>74.5<\/td><td>74.5<\/td> <\/tr> <\/tbody><!--ninja_tobody_rendering_done--> <\/table> <style type=\"text\/css\" id=\"ninja_table_custom_css_723299\"><![CDATA[ #footable_723299 { font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; } ]]><\/style> <\/div> <p>With Trek, it\u2019s the SLR tag that highlights this bike\u2019s top-tier ranking within the Supercaliber range. It\u2019s made from higher-modulus carbon fibre than the SL version and also forgoes internal cable-guide tubes, to save weight.<\/p>\n<p>Extended seatstays connect directly to the IsoStrut rear shock, eliminating all the usual hardware and creating a more solid connection from front to rear.<\/p>\n<p>Down below, the chainstays extend past the main pivot and wrap around the base of the seat tube to bolster stiffness further.<\/p>\n<p>As on the Specialized, there\u2019s no rear pivot. Instead, the heavily shaped seatstays are designed to flex under compression. There\u2019s ample room within the front triangle for two bottles.<\/p>\n<p>Trek has slackened the Gen 2 Supercaliber\u2019s head angle to 67.5 degrees, steepened the seat tube angle slightly to 74.5 degrees and extended the reach of the medium size to 435mm, which is 5mm shorter than that of the equivalent Epic World Cup.<\/p>\n<h3>Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2 geometry<\/h3>\n<div id=\"footable_parent_757221\" class=\" footable_parent ninja_table_wrapper loading_ninja_table wp_table_data_press_parent semantic_ui \"> <table data-ninja_table_instance=\"ninja_table_instance_1\" data-footable_id=\"757221\" data-filter-delay=\"1000\" aria-label=\"Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 - geometry\" id=\"footable_757221\" data-unique_identifier=\"ninja_table_unique_id_785810465_757221\" class=\" foo-table ninja_footable foo_table_757221 ninja_table_unique_id_785810465_757221 ui table nt_type_legacy_table selectable celled striped vertical_centered footable-paging-right ninja_table_search_disabled ninja_table_pro\"> <colgroup> <col class=\"ninja_column_0 \"\/> <col class=\"ninja_column_1 \"\/> <col class=\"ninja_column_2 \"\/> <col class=\"ninja_column_3 \"\/> <col class=\"ninja_column_4 \"\/> <col class=\"ninja_column_5 \"\/> <\/colgroup> <thead>\n<tr class=\"footable-header\"> <th scope=\"col\" class=\"ninja_column_0 ninja_clmn_nm_ninja_column_1 \">\ufeff<\/th><th scope=\"col\" class=\"ninja_column_1 ninja_clmn_nm_s \"><b>S<\/b><\/th><th scope=\"col\" class=\"ninja_column_2 ninja_clmn_nm_m \"><b>M<\/b><\/th><th scope=\"col\" class=\"ninja_column_3 ninja_clmn_nm_ml \"><b>ML<\/b><\/th><th scope=\"col\" class=\"ninja_column_4 ninja_clmn_nm_l \"><b>L<\/b><\/th><th scope=\"col\" class=\"ninja_column_5 ninja_clmn_nm_xl \"><b>XL<\/b><\/th><\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody> <tr data-row_id=\"19485\" class=\"ninja_table_row_0 nt_row_id_19485\"> <td><b>Seat angle<\/b> (degrees)<\/td><td>74.5<\/td><td>74.5<\/td><td>74.5<\/td><td>74.5<\/td><td>74.5<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"19486\" class=\"ninja_table_row_1 nt_row_id_19486\"> <td><b>Head angle<\/b> (degrees)<\/td><td>67.5<\/td><td>67.5<\/td><td>67.5<\/td><td>67.5<\/td><td>67.5<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"19487\" class=\"ninja_table_row_2 nt_row_id_19487\"> <td><b>Chainstay<\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>435<\/td><td>435<\/td><td>435<\/td><td>435<\/td><td>435<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"19488\" class=\"ninja_table_row_3 nt_row_id_19488\"> <td><b>Seat tube<\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>395<\/td><td>420<\/td><td>440<\/td><td>460<\/td><td>525<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"19489\" class=\"ninja_table_row_4 nt_row_id_19489\"> <td><b>Top tube<\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>571<\/td><td>592<\/td><td>605<\/td><td>622<\/td><td>663<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"19490\" class=\"ninja_table_row_5 nt_row_id_19490\"> <td><b>Head tube<\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>90<\/td><td>90<\/td><td>90<\/td><td>100<\/td><td>125<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"19491\" class=\"ninja_table_row_6 nt_row_id_19491\"> <td><b>Fork offset<\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>43<\/td><td>43<\/td><td>43<\/td><td>43<\/td><td>43<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"19492\" class=\"ninja_table_row_7 nt_row_id_19492\"> <td><b>Trail<\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>109<\/td><td>109<\/td><td>109<\/td><td>109<\/td><td>109<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"19493\" class=\"ninja_table_row_8 nt_row_id_19493\"> <td><b>Bottom bracket drop<\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>46<\/td><td>46<\/td><td>46<\/td><td>46<\/td><td>46<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"19494\" class=\"ninja_table_row_9 nt_row_id_19494\"> <td><b>Bottom bracket height<\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>327<\/td><td>327<\/td><td>327<\/td><td>327<\/td><td>327<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"19495\" class=\"ninja_table_row_10 nt_row_id_19495\"> <td><b>Wheelbase<\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>1,113<\/td><td>1,138<\/td><td>1,153<\/td><td>1,172<\/td><td>1,217<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"19496\" class=\"ninja_table_row_11 nt_row_id_19496\"> <td><b>Standover<\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>760<\/td><td>772<\/td><td>772<\/td><td>772<\/td><td>772<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"19497\" class=\"ninja_table_row_12 nt_row_id_19497\"> <td><b>Stack<\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>590<\/td><td>590<\/td><td>590<\/td><td>599<\/td><td>622<\/td> <\/tr> <tr data-row_id=\"19498\" class=\"ninja_table_row_13 nt_row_id_19498\"> <td><b>Reach<\/b> (mm)<\/td><td>410<\/td><td>435<\/td><td>450<\/td><td>465<\/td><td>500<\/td> <\/tr> <\/tbody><!--ninja_tobody_rendering_done--> <\/table> <style type=\"text\/css\" id=\"ninja_table_custom_css_723299\"><![CDATA[ #footable_723299 { font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; } ]]><\/style> <style type=\"text\/css\" id=\"ninja_table_custom_css_757221\"><![CDATA[ #footable_757221 { font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; } ]]><\/style> <\/div> <h2>Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup vs Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2 spec details<\/h2>\n<div class=\"mceTemp\"\/>\n<div class=\"image-handler__container image-handler__container--full\" style=\"padding-bottom: calc(100% * (1065 \/ 1600));\"> <picture> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=300%2C200, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=600%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=900%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1200%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=300%2C200, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=600%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=900%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1200%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=355%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=710%2C473 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1065%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1420%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=355%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=710%2C473 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1065%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1420%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=405%2C270, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=810%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1215%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=405%2C270, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=810%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1215%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=554%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1108%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=554%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1108%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1240%2C825 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1240%2C825 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=408%2C272, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=816%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1224%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=408%2C272, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=816%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1224%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=556%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1112%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=556%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1112%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <img class=\"wp-image-757237 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image--full no-wrap js-lazyload\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-09-ce8b1c1.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413\" width=\"620\" height=\"413\" alt=\"Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup full suspension mountain bike\" title=\"Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 vs Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup - 09\"\/>\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div><div class=\"caption-hold\"><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\"><span class=\"caption-copy\"><i class=\"icon-arrow icon-camera-circle\"\/> Built for racing, both bikes are fitted with a 34t chainring.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\"im-image-caption\"> <i>Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p>The Trek and Specialized share plenty of kit, and even the bits that aren\u2019t identical are similar.<\/p>\n<p>SRAM\u2019s XC-focused, wireless XX SL Eagle AXS Transmission drives both bikes forward, while <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/reviews\/components\/brakes\/disc-brake-systems\/sram-level-ultimate-stealth-4-piston-brakes-review\/\">Level Stealth Ultimate brakes<\/a> bring them to a halt.<\/p>\n<p>There are subtle differences, though. Trek has opted for the more powerful four-piston variant, while Specialized gives you the two-piston version, even though SRAM\u2019s spec list indicates that the four-pot brakes are 9g lighter.<\/p>\n<p>Both brands assume you\u2019re happy pushing a 34t chainring, and tech-heads will appreciate the Quarq power meter built into the ring on the Epic World Cup.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/advice\/buyers-guides\/rockshox-suspension-fork-guide\/\">RockShox suspension<\/a> is used on both bikes. The Supercaliber\u2019s IsoStrut SIDLuxe shock is paired with a regular SID SL Ultimate fork up-front, with 110mm of travel.<\/p>\n<p>Specialized uses a custom SIDLuxe WCID Ultimate shock, and also drops its Brain damper into the top of the SID SL fork.<\/p>\n<div class=\"image-handler__container image-handler__container--full\" style=\"padding-bottom: calc(100% * (1064 \/ 1600));\"> <picture> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=300%2C200, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=600%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=900%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1200%2C798 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=300%2C200, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=600%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=900%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1200%2C798 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=355%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=710%2C472 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1065%2C708 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1420%2C944 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=355%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=710%2C472 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1065%2C708 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1420%2C944 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=405%2C269, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=810%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1215%2C808 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=405%2C269, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=810%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1215%2C808 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=554%2C368, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1108%2C737 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=554%2C368, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1108%2C737 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C412, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1240%2C825 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C412, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1240%2C825 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=408%2C271, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=816%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1224%2C814 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=408%2C271, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=816%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1224%2C814 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=556%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1112%2C739 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=556%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1112%2C739 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <img class=\"wp-image-757240 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image--full no-wrap js-lazyload\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-12-c8fa21e.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C412\" width=\"620\" height=\"413\" alt=\"Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup full suspension mountain bike\" title=\"Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 vs Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup - 12\"\/>\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div><div class=\"caption-hold\"><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\"><span class=\"caption-copy\"><i class=\"icon-arrow icon-camera-circle\"\/> Specialized\u2019s Brain tech adds an adjustable inertia valve to the SID SL fork.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\"im-image-caption\"> <i>Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p>This adds an adjustable inertia valve platform, which keeps the fork effectively locked out under gentler inputs, but gives you access to the full 110mm of travel if a harsher or bigger shock bumps the valve open.<\/p>\n<p>You get to decide just how sensitive the system is, too.<\/p>\n<p>Trek\u2019s approach to improving efficiency is a two-position lockout, operated from the handlebar via RockShox\u2019s freshly revised TwistLoc remote.<\/p>\n<p>Wheels and tyres play a crucial part in the performance of any XC bike, and both brands go to their in-house suppliers for these.<\/p>\n<p>Carbon fibre hoops and skinny, fast-rolling rubber feature on both, but while the Specialized gets modern 2.4in tyres, the Trek rolls on relatively narrow 2.2in rubber (something we rectified early in testing).<\/p>\n<p>Carbon fibre finishing kit is the name of the game.<\/p>\n<p>Both bikes have integrated bar\/stem setups, which save weight but deny the rider the opportunity to tune the fit and feel of the cockpit.<\/p>\n<p>Further back, the Epic World Cup gets a rigid carbon post, while the Supercaliber has a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/news\/fox-transfer-sl-long-travel\/\">Fox Transfer SL dropper<\/a> fitted, with 100mm of travel on the medium bike tested here.<\/p>\n<h3>Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup specifications<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Frame:<\/strong> FACT 12m carbon fibre, 75mm travel<\/li>\n<li><strong>Fork:<\/strong>\u00a0RockShox SID SL Ultimate Brain, 110mm travel<\/li>\n<li><strong>Shock:<\/strong>\u00a0RockShox SIDLuxe WCID<\/li>\n<li><strong>Wheelset:<\/strong>\u00a0Roval Control SL carbon wheels<\/li>\n<li><strong>Tyres:<\/strong>\u00a0Specialized S-Works Fast Trak (f) and Specialized Renegade (r) 29\u00d72.35in<\/li>\n<li><strong>Drivetrain:<\/strong>\u00a0SRAM XX SL Eagle AXS w\/ Quarq power meter cranks (1\u00d712)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Brakes:<\/strong>\u00a0SRAM Level Stealth Ultimate, 180\/160mm rotors<\/li>\n<li><strong>Bar\/Stem:<\/strong>\u00a0Roval Control SL Integrated, 60mm\/760mm<\/li>\n<li><strong>Seatpost:<\/strong>\u00a0Roval Control SL rigid<\/li>\n<li><strong>Saddle:<\/strong>\u00a0Specialized S-Works Power<\/li>\n<li><strong>Weight:<\/strong>\u00a09.6kg, large size without pedals<\/li>\n<li><strong>Price:<\/strong>\u00a0\u00a311,000<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2 specifications<\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Frame:<\/strong> SLR OCLV carbon fibre, 80mm travel<\/li>\n<li><strong>Fork:<\/strong>\u00a0RockShox SID SL Ultimate, 110mm travel<\/li>\n<li><strong>Shock:<\/strong>\u00a0Trek IsoStrut RockShox SIDLuxe<\/li>\n<li><strong>Wheelset:<\/strong>\u00a0Bontrager Kovee RSL carbon wheels<\/li>\n<li><strong>Tyres:<\/strong>\u00a0Bontrager Saint-Anne RSL XR 29\u00d72.2in<\/li>\n<li><strong>Drivetrain:<\/strong>\u00a0SRAM XX SL Eagle AXS (1\u00d712)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Brakes:<\/strong>\u00a0SRAM Level Ultimate Stealth, 160mm rotors<\/li>\n<li><strong>Bar\/Stem:<\/strong>\u00a0Bontrager RSL Integrated, 750mm\/70mm<\/li>\n<li><strong>Seatpost:<\/strong>\u00a0Fox Transfer SL, 100mm drop<\/li>\n<li><strong>Saddle:<\/strong>\u00a0Bontrager Aeolus RSL<\/li>\n<li><strong>Weight:<\/strong>\u00a09.62kg, medium size without pedals<\/li>\n<li><strong>Price:<\/strong>\u00a0\u00a310,800<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup vs Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2 ride comparisons<\/h2>\n<div class=\"image-handler__container image-handler__container--full\" style=\"padding-bottom: calc(100% * (1065 \/ 1600));\"> <picture> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=300%2C200, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=600%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=900%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1200%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=300%2C200, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=600%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=900%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1200%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=355%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=710%2C473 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1065%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1420%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=355%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=710%2C473 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1065%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1420%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=405%2C270, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=810%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1215%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=405%2C270, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=810%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1215%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=554%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1108%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=554%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1108%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1240%2C825 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1240%2C825 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=408%2C272, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=816%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1224%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=408%2C272, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=816%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1224%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=556%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1112%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=556%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1112%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <img class=\"wp-image-757238 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image--full no-wrap js-lazyload\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-10-1e92f4f.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413\" width=\"620\" height=\"413\" alt=\"Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup full suspension mountain bike\" title=\"Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 vs Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup - 10\"\/>\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div><div class=\"caption-hold\"><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\"><span class=\"caption-copy\"><i class=\"icon-arrow icon-camera-circle\"\/> A RockShox SIDLuxe WCID shock controls the Epic\u2019s 75mm of rear-wheel travel.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\"im-image-caption\"> <i>Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p>In No Gulp (firm) mode, with zero shock sag and its most progressive spring rate, the Epic World Cup really does have the demeanour of a hardtail. The rear end is solid, barely breaking into its travel until an impact requires it.<\/p>\n<p>Stand on the pedals and the fast-rolling Renegade rear tyre instantly spins up to speed, but take care on slippery, slimy surfaces because the slick tread and stiff suspension can make technical ascents a spicy affair.<\/p>\n<p>Although the Supercaliber sags into its travel, get on the power and you\u2019ll be surprised by just how taut and direct things are.<\/p>\n<p>It may not feel quite as solid as the Epic World Cup in an all-out sprint, but there\u2019s no denying just how stable it is or how quickly it picks up pace.<\/p>\n<p>Hit a technical climb at speed on the Specialized and the rear soaks up the harsh edges, underlining that it certainly isn\u2019t a hardtail.<\/p>\n<div class=\"image-handler__container image-handler__container--aspect\" style=\"padding-bottom: calc(100% \/ 1.501210653753);\"> <picture> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=298%2C199, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=598%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=898%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1198%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=298%2C199, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=598%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=898%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1198%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=354%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=708%2C472 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1063%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1417%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=354%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=708%2C472 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1063%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1417%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=403%2C269, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=808%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1213%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=403%2C269, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=808%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1213%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=553%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1107%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=553%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1107%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=619%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1239%2C826 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=619%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1239%2C826 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=406%2C271, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=814%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1222%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=406%2C271, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=814%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1222%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=555%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1110%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=555%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1110%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <img class=\"wp-image-757242 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image--aspect no-wrap js-lazyload\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-14-c19106a.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=619%2C413\" width=\"620\" height=\"413\" alt=\"Male rider in green top riding the Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2 full suspension mountain bike through woodland\" title=\"Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 vs Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup - 14\"\/>\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div><div class=\"caption-hold\"><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\"><span class=\"caption-copy\"><i class=\"icon-arrow icon-camera-circle\"\/> It might be a cross-country race bike, but it\u2019s not afraid to take to the air when the time comes.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\"im-image-caption\"> <i>Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p>Switch to Full Gulp (active) mode \u2013 by pressing the button on the shock, which transfers air from the positive to the negative chamber, giving 10 per cent sag and a more linear spring rate \u2013 and it only gets better on chunky uphill sections.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s still direct and efficient-feeling, but with that little extra sag, the bike turns into a mountain goat.<\/p>\n<p>The tyres may be scantily treaded, but the suspension helps them grip tenaciously, while remaining relatively stable and not causing any pedal-tempo-ruining lurches.<\/p>\n<p>With the fork settled deeper into its travel than the rear, the seat tube steepens, further boosting pedalling.<\/p>\n<div class=\"image-handler__container image-handler__container--aspect\" style=\"padding-bottom: calc(100% \/ 1.501210653753);\"> <picture> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=298%2C199, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=598%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=898%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1198%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=298%2C199, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=598%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=898%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1198%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=354%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=708%2C472 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1063%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1417%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=354%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=708%2C472 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1063%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1417%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=403%2C269, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=808%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1213%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=403%2C269, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=808%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1213%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=553%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1107%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=553%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1107%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=619%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1239%2C826 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=619%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1239%2C826 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=406%2C271, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=814%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1222%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=406%2C271, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=814%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1222%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=555%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1110%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=555%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1110%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <img class=\"wp-image-757245 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image--aspect no-wrap js-lazyload\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-17-530c6f5.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=619%2C413\" width=\"620\" height=\"413\" alt=\"Male rider in blue top riding the Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup full suspension mountain bike in woodland\" title=\"Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 vs Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup - 17\"\/>\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div><div class=\"caption-hold\"><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\"><span class=\"caption-copy\"><i class=\"icon-arrow icon-camera-circle\"\/> XC bikes need to be capable climbers, and the Spesh handles the ups brilliantly.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\"im-image-caption\"> <i>Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p>The intermediate Half Gulp setting \u2018gulps\u2019 a little less air into the negative chamber than Full Gulp, for a feel somewhere between the other two modes. Breakaway force is reduced compared to No Gulp, giving a suppler start to the stoke.<\/p>\n<p>While the Trek\u2019s shock is less fancy, it too provides a super-stable platform to pedal from, with the rear end barely moving as you spin the cranks. This makes the Supercaliber feel sprightly and eager to claw its way up any incline.<\/p>\n<p>When you do encounter a rock-step or root, the rear wheel can still move freely enough to take the edge off the impact, boost traction and keep you feeling unflustered as you continue to power up the hill.<\/p>\n<p>Even awkward, technical uphill switchbacks can be dispatched with relative ease, with plenty of control and next to no front-wheel lift or wander.<\/p>\n<h3>Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup vs Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2 descending comparison<\/h3>\n<div class=\"image-handler__container image-handler__container--aspect\" style=\"padding-bottom: calc(100% \/ 1.501210653753);\"> <picture> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=298%2C199, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=598%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=898%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1198%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=298%2C199, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=598%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=898%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1198%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=354%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=708%2C472 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1063%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1417%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=354%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=708%2C472 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1063%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1417%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=403%2C269, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=808%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1213%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=403%2C269, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=808%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1213%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=553%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1107%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=553%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1107%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=619%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1239%2C826 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=619%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1239%2C826 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=406%2C271, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=814%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1222%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=406%2C271, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=814%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1222%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=555%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1110%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=555%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1110%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <img class=\"wp-image-757244 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image--aspect no-wrap js-lazyload\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-16-6130fb3.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=619%2C413\" width=\"620\" height=\"413\" alt=\"Male rider in green top riding the Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2 full suspension mountain bike through woodland\" title=\"Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 vs Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup - 16\"\/>\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div><div class=\"caption-hold\"><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\"><span class=\"caption-copy\"><i class=\"icon-arrow icon-camera-circle\"\/> The centred ride position (helped by the inclusion of the dropper post) means you can attack technical terrain.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\"im-image-caption\"> <i>Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bikeradar.com\/advice\/buyers-guides\/best-cross-country-bikes\/\">best cross-country bikes<\/a> must excel on the climbs, but they need to feel relatively composed and confident on faster-paced trails and descents, too.<\/p>\n<p>With its slack-for-XC head angle and decent reach, the Specialized\u2019s front centre is pretty long. On smooth, flowing trails, this gives the bike plenty of stability.<\/p>\n<p>Whether you keep it in No Gulp, Half Gulp or Full Gulp, this is a bike that thrives when you push and pump through the terrain, or stab at the pedals to boost speed.<\/p>\n<p>The Supercaliber feels more like a traditional full-suspension XC bike, albeit one with quite heavy damping, but it still gives a sensation of urgency and eagerness on mellower trails.<\/p>\n<p>Point the Epic World Cup down something more gnarly and the bike surprises.<\/p>\n<p>With the Brain valve shifting smoothly from closed to open, there\u2019s often a hint of forward bias, as the fork settles deeper into its travel while the shock remains propped up higher in its stroke.<\/p>\n<p>This means you can end up weighting the front wheel more than is necessary (the fixed seatpost doesn\u2019t help here, either).<\/p>\n<div class=\"image-handler__container image-handler__container--aspect\" style=\"padding-bottom: calc(100% \/ 1.501210653753);\"> <picture> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=298%2C199, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=598%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=898%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1198%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=298%2C199, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=598%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=898%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1198%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=354%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=708%2C472 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1063%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1417%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=354%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=708%2C472 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1063%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1417%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=403%2C269, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=808%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1213%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=403%2C269, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=808%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1213%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=553%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1107%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=553%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1107%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=619%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1239%2C826 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=619%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1239%2C826 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=406%2C271, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=814%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1222%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=406%2C271, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=814%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1222%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=555%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1110%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=555%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1110%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <img class=\"wp-image-757243 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image--aspect no-wrap js-lazyload\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-15-5f8df0a.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=619%2C413\" width=\"620\" height=\"413\" alt=\"Male rider in blue top riding the Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup full suspension mountain bike in woodland\" title=\"Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 vs Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup - 15\"\/>\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div><div class=\"caption-hold\"><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\"><span class=\"caption-copy\"><i class=\"icon-arrow icon-camera-circle\"\/> The tyre combo and geometry help keep things on track in corners.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\"im-image-caption\"> <i>Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p>However, with more travel to play with at the front than the back, and the understanding that the rear suspension is there more to take the edge off the hits than flatter your descending prowess, you can adjust.<\/p>\n<p>The fork\u2019s mid-stroke support helps keep the front end propped up, too.<\/p>\n<p>In all three modes, the Specialized delivers all its travel as and when needed, with a smooth transition to the end of the shock stroke, thanks to the Mega Jounce Bumper \u2013 basically, a bottom-out bumper.<\/p>\n<p>The difference between the Full Gulp and No Gulp settings is most clear when you dive into a set of loose corners.<\/p>\n<p>With zero sag, the rear wheel is reliant on the tyre\u2019s low tread blocks alone to create grip.<\/p>\n<p>However, shift some air into the negative chamber, and that little extra suppleness immediately boosts grip and confidence.<\/p>\n<div class=\"image-handler__container image-handler__container--full\" style=\"padding-bottom: calc(100% * (1065 \/ 1600));\"> <picture> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=300%2C200, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=600%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=900%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1200%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=300%2C200, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=600%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=900%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1200%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=355%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=710%2C473 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1065%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1420%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=355%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=710%2C473 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1065%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1420%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=405%2C270, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=810%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1215%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=405%2C270, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=810%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1215%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=554%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1108%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=554%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1108%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1240%2C825 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1240%2C825 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=408%2C272, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=816%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1224%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=408%2C272, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=816%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1224%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=556%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1112%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=556%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1112%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <img class=\"wp-image-757234 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image--full no-wrap js-lazyload\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-06-5c37b69.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413\" width=\"620\" height=\"413\" alt=\"Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2 full suspension mountain bike\" title=\"Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 vs Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup - 06\"\/>\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div><div class=\"caption-hold\"><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\"><span class=\"caption-copy\"><i class=\"icon-arrow icon-camera-circle\"\/> A dropper post adds welcome versatility on the Supercaliber.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\"im-image-caption\"> <i>Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p>Get up out of the saddle on the Supercaliber and you feel more centred, with the suspension remaining more balanced and the dropper post enabling you to slam the seat out of the way.<\/p>\n<p>This makes for a more controlled and confident stance on the bike. A little like on the Epic World Cup, the rear suspension is there to soak up and quell impacts, rather than totally absorb them.<\/p>\n<p>That means more feedback through the chassis, but thankfully, there\u2019s enough give and progression within the system to enable you to make the most of that 80mm of rear-wheel travel, stick lines older XC hardtails would baulk at and do so without feeling uncomfortable or out of your depth.<\/p>\n<p>The four-piston calipers on the Trek help when descending, too, especially in treacherous conditions, where the boost in power and punch gives extra confidence.<\/p>\n<p>Specialized\u2019s tyres blow up broad on their Roval rims and, with thin sidewalls, have a supple feel, which helps reduce buzz and boost grip.<\/p>\n<div class=\"image-handler__container image-handler__container--full\" style=\"padding-bottom: calc(100% * (1065 \/ 1600));\"> <picture> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=300%2C200, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=600%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=900%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1200%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=300%2C200, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=600%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=900%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1200%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=355%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=710%2C473 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1065%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1420%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" 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data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=554%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1108%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1240%2C825 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1240%2C825 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=408%2C272, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=816%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1224%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=408%2C272, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=816%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1224%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=556%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1112%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=556%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1112%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <img class=\"wp-image-757239 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image--full no-wrap js-lazyload\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-11-ed8149d.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413\" width=\"620\" height=\"413\" alt=\"Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup full suspension mountain bike\" title=\"Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 vs Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup - 11\"\/>\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div><div class=\"caption-hold\"><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\"><span class=\"caption-copy\"><i class=\"icon-arrow icon-camera-circle\"\/> The Epic World Cup gets wider, more contemporary 2.4in tyres, compared to the Trek\u2019s 2.2in ones.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\"im-image-caption\"> <i>Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p>While the tread blocks are low in profile, they\u2019re well-placed and, especially up-front, have sharp enough edges to dig into XC-style surfaces.<\/p>\n<p>Come winter, something with a more aggressive tread is likely to be on your shopping list, though.<\/p>\n<p>The rubber that comes as standard on the Supercaliber is also superbly pliant, but at 2.2in, the tyres just aren\u2019t wide enough.<\/p>\n<p>Trek sent us some replacement 2.4in Saint-Annes. With these fitted, more trail chatter was eliminated and grip felt easier to find in slimy rock sections.<\/p>\n<p>Both of our testers struggled with the integrated cockpits on these bikes, which share similar rise and sweep figures. Unable to roll the bars into a different position, they found it hard to keep their hands comfy, especially on rougher trails and longer rides.<\/p>\n<h2>Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup vs Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2 bottom line<\/h2>\n<div class=\"image-handler__container image-handler__container--aspect\" style=\"padding-bottom: calc(100% \/ 1.501210653753);\"> <picture> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=298%2C199, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=598%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=898%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1198%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=298%2C199, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=598%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=898%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1198%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=354%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=708%2C472 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1063%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1417%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=354%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=708%2C472 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1063%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1417%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=403%2C269, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=808%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1213%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=403%2C269, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=808%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1213%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=553%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1107%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=553%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1107%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=619%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1239%2C826 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=619%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1239%2C826 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=406%2C271, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=814%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1222%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=406%2C271, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=814%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1222%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=555%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1110%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=555%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1110%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <img class=\"wp-image-757246 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image--aspect no-wrap js-lazyload\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-18-db81368.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=619%2C413\" width=\"620\" height=\"413\" alt=\"Male rider in blue top riding the Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup full suspension mountain bike in woodland\" title=\"Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 vs Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup - 18\"\/>\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div><div class=\"caption-hold\"><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\"><span class=\"caption-copy\"><i class=\"icon-arrow icon-camera-circle\"\/> The Epic World Cup is fast \u2013 you\u2019ll find yourself squashing plenty of rollers.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\"im-image-caption\"> <i>Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p>The Epic World Cup is, to all intents and purposes, a niche bike. Short-course XC racers who love putting in 100 per cent effort on every lap will love its tenacious approach to speed.<\/p>\n<p>However, marathon racers may benefit from more travel to make long days and prolonged descents a little more palatable.<\/p>\n<p>The Trek is arguably more of an all-rounder, thanks to how that 80mm of rear-wheel travel is delivered.<\/p>\n<p>There\u2019s no denying just how formidable this machine is when you get on the gas, though.<\/p>\n<div class=\"image-handler__container image-handler__container--full\" style=\"padding-bottom: calc(100% * (1065 \/ 1600));\"> <picture> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=300%2C200, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=600%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=900%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1200%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=300%2C200, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=600%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=900%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1200%2C799 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=355%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=710%2C473 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1065%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1420%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=355%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=710%2C473 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1065%2C709 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1420%2C945 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=405%2C270, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=810%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1215%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=405%2C270, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=810%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1215%2C809 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=554%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1108%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=554%2C369, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1108%2C738 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1240%2C825 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 992px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1240%2C825 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=408%2C272, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=816%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1224%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 768px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=408%2C272, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=816%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1224%2C815 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=556%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1112%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=556%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1112%2C740 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <img class=\"wp-image-757235 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image--full no-wrap js-lazyload\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-07-4925e77.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C413\" width=\"620\" height=\"413\" alt=\"Pack shot of the Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup full suspension mountain bike\" title=\"Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 vs Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup - 07\"\/>\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div><div class=\"caption-hold\"><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\"><span class=\"caption-copy\"><i class=\"icon-arrow icon-camera-circle\"\/> Specialized reckons the Epic World Cup will replace XC hardtails.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\"im-image-caption\"> <i>Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p>As with the Epic World Cup, put the power down and the Supercaliber surges forward at breakneck speed.<\/p>\n<p>But there\u2019s enough squish to soften impacts sufficiently to boost comfort on longer rides. It helps massively that the bike comes with a dropper post, which elevates control further.<\/p>\n<p>On both of these bikes, acceleration and pick-up is almost instantaneous and there are certainly hints of a hardtail coursing through each of these frames.<\/p>\n<p>But, when it comes to maximising the number of watts going through the rear wheel, the Epic World Cup just edges ahead.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s a touch more direct and solid-feeling in these up-out-of-the saddle situations, which makes it a seriously eager climber.<\/p>\n<div class=\"image-handler__container image-handler__container--full\" style=\"padding-bottom: calc(100% * (1064 \/ 1600));\"> <picture> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=300%2C200, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=600%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=900%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1200%2C798 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 320px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=300%2C200, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=600%2C399 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=900%2C599 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1200%2C798 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=355%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=710%2C472 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1065%2C708 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1420%2C944 4x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 375px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=355%2C236, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=710%2C472 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1065%2C708 3x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1420%2C944 4x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=405%2C269, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=810%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1215%2C808 3x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 425px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=405%2C269, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=810%2C539 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1215%2C808 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=554%2C368, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1108%2C737 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(max-width: 589px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=554%2C368, 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data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=408%2C271, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=816%2C543 2x, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1224%2C814 3x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=90&amp;resize=556%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?webp=true&amp;quality=45&amp;resize=1112%2C739 2x\" type=\"image\/webp\"> <source media=\"(min-width: 590px)\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=556%2C370, https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?quality=45&amp;resize=1112%2C739 2x\" type=\"image\/jpeg\"> <img class=\"wp-image-757231 align size-landscape_thumbnail image-handler__image image-handler__image--full no-wrap js-lazyload\" srcset=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\" data-src=\"https:\/\/images.immediate.co.uk\/production\/volatile\/sites\/21\/2023\/12\/Trek-Supercaliber-SLR-9.9-vs-Specialized-S-Works-Epic-World-Cup-03-05ccc92.jpg?quality=90&amp;resize=620%2C412\" width=\"620\" height=\"413\" alt=\"Angled pack shot of the Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 XX AXS Gen 2 full suspension mountain bike\" title=\"Trek Supercaliber SLR 9.9 vs Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup - 03\"\/>\n<\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/source><\/picture>\n<\/div><div class=\"caption-hold\"><figcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\"><span class=\"caption-copy\"><i class=\"icon-arrow icon-camera-circle\"\/> The Trek is more of an all-rounder than its Specialized rival.<\/span><\/figcaption><span class=\"im-image-caption\"> <i>Andy Lloyd \/ Our Media<\/i><\/span><\/div>\n<p>Get into more technical, undulating terrain and the Trek gains the upper hand. The back end of the bike is that bit more forgiving on choppy, roughed-up sections of trail.<\/p>\n<p>Couple this with the dropper post, and when it comes to descending, the Supercaliber offers a well-centred ride position that feels confidence-enhancing and controllable.<\/p>\n<p>The Epic World Cup can\u2019t quite keep up with its rival.<\/p>\n<p>Both bikes are dripping with some of the best XC-focused kit going, although some of the spec choices are somewhat questionable.<\/p>\n<p>Overall, though, it\u2019s the Trek that offers the better all-round performance, whether for shorter, sharper efforts, or longer stints in the saddle.<\/p> <\/body><\/html>\n<hr class=\"no-tts wp-block-separator\"\/>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p> Can these cutting-edge full-suspension mountain bikes kill off the cross-country hardtail for good? <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":24,"featured_media":57669,"template":"","categories":[1,36],"acf":{"readingTimeMinutes":"17"},"uagb_featured_image_src":{"full":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2023\/12\/world-cup-xc-bikes-head-to-head-specialized-s-works-epic-world-cup-vs-trek-supercaliber-slr-9-9-xx-axs-gen-2.jpg",1600,1065,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2023\/12\/world-cup-xc-bikes-head-to-head-specialized-s-works-epic-world-cup-vs-trek-supercaliber-slr-9-9-xx-axs-gen-2-150x150.jpg",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2023\/12\/world-cup-xc-bikes-head-to-head-specialized-s-works-epic-world-cup-vs-trek-supercaliber-slr-9-9-xx-axs-gen-2-300x200.jpg",300,200,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2023\/12\/world-cup-xc-bikes-head-to-head-specialized-s-works-epic-world-cup-vs-trek-supercaliber-slr-9-9-xx-axs-gen-2-768x511.jpg",768,511,true],"large":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2023\/12\/world-cup-xc-bikes-head-to-head-specialized-s-works-epic-world-cup-vs-trek-supercaliber-slr-9-9-xx-axs-gen-2-1024x682.jpg",800,533,true],"1536x1536":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2023\/12\/world-cup-xc-bikes-head-to-head-specialized-s-works-epic-world-cup-vs-trek-supercaliber-slr-9-9-xx-axs-gen-2-1536x1022.jpg",1536,1022,true],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/uploads\/sites\/43\/2023\/12\/world-cup-xc-bikes-head-to-head-specialized-s-works-epic-world-cup-vs-trek-supercaliber-slr-9-9-xx-axs-gen-2.jpg",1600,1065,false]},"uagb_author_info":{"display_name":"importmanagerhub@sprylab.com","author_link":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/author\/importmanagerhubsprylab-com\/"},"uagb_comment_info":0,"uagb_excerpt":"Can these cutting-edge full-suspension mountain bikes kill off the cross-country hardtail for good?","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/rss_feed\/57668"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/rss_feed"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/rss_feed"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/24"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/57669"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=57668"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/c01.purpledshub.com\/cyclingplus\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=57668"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}