$7100

26.2 pounds

5.1-inch rear wheel travel

Specialized, (408) 779-6229

Maxi test: April 2006

Highlights: The S-Works Carbon is the first Stumpy with a front triangle crafted from carbon fiber. Specialized calls their secret blend of fibers, resins and construction Az-1 FACT (Functional Advanced Composite Technology) 10m Carbon. Designers took full advantage of carbon fiber's limitless shaping abilities and pulled out all the stops. While the frame is reminiscent of previous Stumpjumpers, the high-stress areas of the head tube, downtube, bottom bracket cradle and pierced seat tube have totally new dimensions and shapes. This is also the first time the Stumpjumper has been graced with the Brain technology rear shock (formerly available only on the Specialized Epic cross-country race platform and Specialized Enduro).

Best quote: "One area where the Carbon gets up and leaves the competition is through rock-infested singletrack. It is amazing how this bike tracks so true while being pointed through a mine field of rocks (or sharp edges)."

Bottom line: A refreshingly versatile mountain bike. It does everything, and it does it all exceptionally well. It could win a cross-country race, be the anchor on a 24-hour race team, sail onto the podium of a Super D race, or simply be pedaled weekly on one epic adventure after another. The Brain shock has never found a better application than on the Stumpjumper. Get on the Carbon and just pedal. No levers to remember to turn or dials to spin. You bring the muscle and it will take care of all the thinking.