NOTE on Comparing Star Ratings between Interbike 2014 and 2015 bike tests: I’ve found already that the new bike designs I’m riding this year are a step better than the best bikes I rode last year. What was a 5 star rating last year would only be a 4 star rating this year.
The Specialized Enduro rides very much as you might expect a modern enduro bike to ride.
Climbing - 3 stars
Climbing on the Enduro was okay. Not great, but not bad either. The platform damping of the shock does a good job of reducing the motion of the Horst Link (“FSR”) suspension design. I’ve also recently ridden the new Stumpjumper and Specialized’s updates to their FSR suspension design have noticeably improved rear suspension performance
Descending – 4 stars
The Enduro felt stable and predictable but lacks the balance of nimbleness and durability that the best bikes in the category have such as the Turner RFX and Santa Cruz Bronson
Cornering - 3 stars
Cornering on the Enduro was stable & predictable but a bit slow to react.
Summary
The Enduro hits all marks in terms of what you might expect from a modern enduro bike. Although it lacks the last degree of nimbleness and climbing efficiency that only a few bikes in its category have, you won't be disappointed to be riding an Enduro
Rating Guide
5 stars - Absolutely outstanding
4 stars
3 stars - Solid performance, meets expectations
2 stars
1 star - Misses expectations by a wide margin