after a +20 year gap in Mtn biking; I took my 90's Raleigh hard tail out with a group. That started my search for a 29" modern bike. I tested about 5 other mfg's and felt the Chisel felt " on center ". The wandering left & right on some tests left me wondering. So, that said; I am overjoyed to accelerate when climbing, building confidence with technical terrain. I purchased a Large frame, being +5'11" about 185 with a 33" inseam, the fit is perfect. I saw mention about Tubeless tires, and my bike shop pulled my tubes and installed sealant and tubeless valves with no problem. This purchase was a great decision!

It's the perfect amount of bike for a recreational xc/trail rider, with great geometry. Climbs well, descends way better than my previous bike. Super fun to ride. Only complaints would be the fact that the base model tires aren't tubeless compatible, which is a bit of a shock for a mountain bike at this price point. Also, after around a week the headset started creaking pretty badly, and it turns out the exterior of the top bearing is already rusted. Bit of extra grease in there wouldn't hurt.

Last year I purchased a 2023 Scott Spark. I sold it because it didn't feel right despite upgrading the fork. I have gone through many bikes over the years. This Specialized Chisel has been an amazing bike. I've taken it on xc and down country trails. It handles climbs, descents, rock gardens, and small drops with ease. It is blazing fast! It's the fastest bike I've ridden to date. I have a really technical 3.5 mile trail in my backyard and I have been doing time trials on it for 5 years. I beat my best time by a minute and a half on this bike. I also raced my first endurance 50 mile MTB race and it rocked. I love all the attachment points and how light the bike is. I got the Shimano version and upgraded the fork to SID. Unless you get paid to race this is your bike. It keeps up and performs wonderfully. Can't recommend enough!

Cant really say much than Best bike EVER!

Some bikes feel like a collection of components. This bike feels like everything is in harmony with every other part. It's fast on the flat and superb on descents even technical ones. I'm faster everywhere compared to my previous bike. Pedalling is really efficient particularly when climbing. It eats bermed cross country sections and has razor sharp steering. My only complaint is the rear shock which doesn't lock out as it should.