Specialized Chisel HT

In fact, it shares many of the same modern features as its Epic Hardtail sibling but in a more budget-friendly package—making it the most efficient and capable alloy hardtail out there.

This Chisel comes with SRAM's tried and true SX Eagle 1x12 speed drivetrain and Level T hydraulic disc brakes, a RockShox Judy Silver fork, and 27mm internal width alloy wheels wrapped in 2.35 Fast Track Control casing tires.

• We asked ourselves, “How do we bring pro-level performance down to a price more riders can afford?” D'Aluisio Smartweld Technology, that's how. Smartweld allows us to create the most consistent, high-strength welds possible while taking full advantage of compliant, hydroformed alloy tubes. The result? One of the lightest alloy hardtail frames out there at 1,350g, which also features size-tuned stiffness.
• The Chisel also houses all of the modern features that you expect from an XC bike, like Progressive XC Geometry with a 68-degree headtube angle and longer reach, internal cable routing, a threaded bottom bracket, boost spacing, 30.9mm dropper post compatibility, and 1x-only drivetrains.