Specialized Status 160 Review
- Price: $3000
- Frame: Aluminum
- Tires: Front: Butcher 29×2.3″, Rear: Butcher 29×2.3″, Rear: Butcher
- Gear: 2×12
What we like about it: The mixed wheel sizes enhance the bike’s stability and handling, providing riders with greater enjoyment.
What we don’t like about it: The Code R brake’s master cylinder can be affected by sticky pistons.
Rating: (4.7/5)
The Specialized Status 160 delivers outstanding performance on all off-road trails. It effortlessly charges through any terrain, allowing for precise control even in extreme conditions. Yes, it’s the bike that adventure enthusiasts will love, embodying the thrill of adventure to the fullest.
Below, we analyze the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Specialized Status 160. In the latter part of this article, we also compare several top bicycle models. If you’re interested in more bicycle reviews, feel free to follow us.
Riding Experience
Off-Roading
I booked my plane ticket and reserved a hotel on IHG, arriving at the challenging destination, Bromont: Montagne d’Expériences.
In the early morning, the misty mountains carried a hint of danger, adding an element of uncertainty and excitement to my off-road adventure. I hopped on the Specialized Status 160, ready to embark on the mountain journey. The La Sept trail stretches for 1.7 miles, with a descent of 1091 feet. For now, figuring out how to conquer this trail was my primary concern.
I adjusted my posture and pedaled, and the M5 alloy chassis and rear-end chassis responded promptly. With 160mm front travel and 160mm rear travel locked in to prevent suspension compression when accelerating, the Status frame kept my body positioned for off-roading as I steadily gained speed.
As the road gradually descended and the terrain became more varied, my excitement grew. I began to break a sweat. Drawing on my extensive riding experience, I attentively felt the fluctuations in the terrain. The road became increasingly rugged, and I constantly adjusted my posture to match the 160mm front travel and 160mm rear travel. With the support of this setup, I breezed through every bump, and no challenge could stop my progress.
Is That All?
Halfway down the mountain, I reached a flat section and stopped my bike. I replenished my hydration with the bike’s water bottle and took a short break. Then, I pedaled onward, continuing the downhill adventure.
Notably, the increase in speed during the descent brought an excitement level beyond the ordinary. I kept accelerating, even in tight corners, with a constant desire for speed. During the descent, I executed various technical maneuvers, and the feeling of the tires kicking up dirt was simply exhilarating, a sensation of freedom and comfort.
As I approached the finish line, I continued to accelerate and then, with a quick press of the SRAM Code R 4-piston caliper hydraulic disc brakes came to a sudden halt and twisted my direction. I gazed at the road I had conquered on the way down, feeling a deep sense of satisfaction within.
Specifications
The Specialized Status 160 is an exceptional full-suspension endurance mountain bike with a remarkable M5 alloy chassis and rear-end frame. Its FOX FLOAT 36 Rhythm fork and FOX FLOAT DPX2 Performance rear shock provide outstanding 160mm front travel and 160mm rear travel, delivering exceptional damping performance.
Notably, this bike’s mixed wheel sizes deliver impressive results. The 29-inch front wheel provides maximum traction and grip, while the 27.5-inch rear wheel offers a shorter rear triangle and increased agility. The Status frame, crafted from M5 alloy, boasts a mixed-wheel off-road geometry that enhances the fun of off-road riding and can withstand significant impacts.
Its SRAM Code R brakes have stood the test of time, with a four-piston caliper that delivers powerful braking performance, ensuring timely deceleration or stopping for rider safety.
Video
Other Versions
After extensive testing and deepening our understanding of this bike, we recognize it as an outstanding endurance mountain bike.
However, many riders have specific performance or component requirements. Therefore, we have explored bikes of the same type for further investigation.
Specialized Status 140
The upgrade of the Specialized Status 160 over the Specialized Status 140 is primarily reflected in the geometry. The Status 160 boasts a larger stack/reach ratio of 1.348, allowing riders to maintain a more upright position for enhanced comfort. In contrast, the Status 140 is more aggressive with a 1.329 ratio, offering riders greater power through pedal strokes. However, the Status 160 has a smaller head tube angle, providing a smoother ride. Nevertheless, the Status 160 has a lower BB drop, enhancing stability but potentially causing issues when traversing obstacles.
In terms of suspension, the Status 160 has received some upgrades compared to the Status 140. The 160mm front travel and 160mm rear travel deliver outstanding damping performance, ensuring a comfortable ride for riders. However, the Specialized Status 140 features a 1×12 drivetrain with a single chainring design, effectively preventing chain drops. Yet, the 140 tops out at 22mph, while the 160 offers a faster 160mph.
What do we like about it?
- The mixed wheel sizes enhance bike stability and maneuverability, providing riders with greater enjoyment.
- The Status frame is rugged and capable of withstanding significant impacts, making it highly suitable for off-road riding.
- The Grip shock absorber, though aging, provides excellent travel control and ample off-road feel.
- Impressive climbing and descending capabilities.
What don’t we like about it?
- The Code R brake’s master cylinder can be affected by sticky pistons.
FAQ
- Is this bike suitable for beginners?
This bike is suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
- How does this bike perform on climbs?
It offers excellent climbing performance without encountering complex issues.
- Are there any discounts available for this bike?
It is currently available at a discounted price of only $2249.99.
- How do I choose the right size?
The size chart is below:
These sizes are only general guidelines and the true fit may vary from person to person. The easiest way to find your size the best way is to try it out.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 4’11” – 5’3″ | S1 |
| 5’2″ – 5’8″ | S2 |
| 5’5″ – 5’11” | S3 |
| 5’7″ – 6’3″ | S4 |
| 5’10” – 6’4″ | S5 |
Specs
Build
| Frame | M5 alloy chassis and rear-end, Mixed wheel Trail Geometry, threaded BB,12x148mm dropouts, sealed cartridge bearing pivots, replaceable derailleur hanger, 160mm of travelBB Standard: BSA, 73mm, ThreadedColors: Satin Maroon / Charcoal; Satin Charcoal / Maroon |
| Fork | FOX FLOAT 36 Rhythm, GRIP damper, two position Sweep adjustment, 15x110mm QR axle, 44mm offset, 160mm of travel |
| Rear Shock | FOX FLOAT DPX2 Performance, Rx Trail Tune, EVOL Air sleeve, 3-position adjustment, 230x60mm |
| Bottom Bracket | SRAM DUB, BSA 73mm, threaded |
| Stem | Alloy Trail Stem, 35mm bar bore |
| Handlebar | Specialized, 6061 alloy, 6-degree upsweep, 8-degree backsweep, 30mm rise, 780mm width |
| Saddle | Body Geometry Bridge Comp, hollow Cr-Mo rails, 143mm |
| Seatpost | seat post, a-pro, manic, 22-xpmcmlg-125/150/170-011,forged,6066-t6 ,2-bolt,34.9, 125/150/170 traval, offset 0mm,361.5/425.5/470.5mm,scm435. ZINC FINISH BOLT |
| Grips | Deity, Knuckleduster, Black |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | SRAM NX Eagle, 12-speed |
| Crank | SRAM NX Eagle, DUB, 170mm, 48/35T |
| Shifters | SRAM NX Eagle, trigger, 12-speed |
| Cassette | SRAM NX Eagle PG-1230, 12-speed, 11-50t |
| Chain | SRAM NX Eagle, 12-speed |
| Brakes | SRAM Code R, 4-piston caliper, hydraulic disc, 200mm |
Wheels
| Rims | Specialized 29, hookless alloy, 30mm inner width, tubeless ready |
| Spokes | DT Swiss Industry |
| Front Hub | Alloy, sealed cartridge bearings, 15x110mm thru-axle, 28h |
| Rear Hub | Alloy, sealed cartridge bearings, 12x148mm thru-axle, 32h |
| Tires | Front: Butcher, GRID TRAIL casing, GRIPTON® compound, 29×2.3″, Rear: Butcher, GRID TRAIL casing, GRIPTON® compound, 27.5×2.3″ |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click view | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame Material | Groupset |
| YT Industries Capra CORE 1 29 | Click View | FRONT: MAXXIS ASSEGAI I HINTEN 29″ x 2,50 Rear: Tire Size 29″ x 2,40 | 1 x 12 | Aluminum | SRAM NX Eagle, Truvativ Descendant |
| Trek Remedy 8 | Click View | Bontrager XR5 Team Issue 27.5×2.50” | 1 x 12 | Aluminum | Shimano XT |
| Commençal CLASH RIDE | Click View | Rear: MAXXIS DHR II – Front: MAXXIS Assegai, Rear: 27.5″ x 2.4″, WT, Front: 27.5″ x 2.5″ | 1 x 12 | Aluminum | SRAM SX Eagle,X1 |
| GT Sensor Carbon Elite | Click View | (F) Continental Kryptotal Fr, 29×2.4″, (R) Continental Kryptotal Re, 29×2.4″ | 1 x 12 | Carbon | SRAM SX Eagle, Truvativ Descendant |
Specialized Status 160 vs. YT Industries Capra CORE 1 29
The Specialized Status 160 features a 29″ front wheel and a 27.5″ rear wheel. The 29″ front wheel provides excellent traction and impressive rollover capability, while the 27.5″ rear wheel offers increased agility when navigating corners. This mixed wheel size setup enhances maneuverability on rocky terrain and provides more room for the rider’s body, resulting in a slanted geometry.
Furthermore, the YT Industries Capra CORE 1 29 is equipped with a 1×12 drivetrain, whereas the Specialized Status 160 comes with a 2×12 drivetrain. The 1×12 drivetrain’s single chainring design effectively prevents chain drops, while the 2×12 drivetrain may encounter shifting issues.
It’s worth noting that while the Specialized Status 160 boasts 160mm front travel and 160mm rear travel with decent damping performance, the YT Industries Capra CORE 1 29 offers even better damping with 170mm front travel and 170mm rear travel. This provides riders with a more comfortable experience when tackling rough trails.
Specialized Status 160 vs. Trek Remedy 8
The Specialized Status 160 is equipped with a Fox Rhythm Float 36 fork, while the Trek Remedy 8 comes with a RockShox Lyrik Select+ fork. Both of these forks are considered base models and suitable for beginners. However, the Fox fork has a stiffer chassis, whereas the Lyrik uses thicker stanchions and a heavier lower leg. Additionally, the Lyrik damper has some limitations, requiring the rebound circuit to be closed in high-pressure situations to maintain traction, but it offers superior air spring performance.
The Trek Remedy 8’s drivetrain is effective at preventing chain drops. However, its rear travel is 150mm, which doesn’t provide the same level of damping performance as the 160mm rear travel offered by the Specialized Status 160. Nevertheless, this bike has a slower top speed, reaching only 25mph, while the Specialized Status 160 can achieve 36mph.
Learn More: Is Trek Remedy 7 A Good Bike? [Trek Remedy 7 Review]
Specialized Status 160 vs. Commençal CLASH RIDE
It’s worth noting that the Commençal CLASH RIDE boasts an excellent suspension system with 180mm front travel and 170mm rear travel, providing powerful damping performance. However, its ratio of stack/reach is 1.28, whereas the Specialized Status 160 has a ratio of stack/reach at 1.348. A larger stack/reach ratio offers more comfort during long-distance rides and a more upright posture, allowing riders to breathe more easily. On the other hand, a smaller stack/reach ratio has a more aggressive geometry, providing greater efficiency.
Additionally, the Specialized Status 160 has a larger tail, while the Commençal CLASH RIDE’s trail measures only 132mm. A higher trail value offers greater speed stability and a tendency for self-correction during steering. In contrast, a lower trail value provides quicker, more agile steering and enhances the ability to maintain the line through tight corners.
Specialized Status 160 vs. GT Sensor Carbon Elite
The GT Sensor Carbon Elite features a lightweight carbon frame that excels in absorbing shocks and offers good rigidity. However, the manufacturing process involves complex stress calculations, making it a pricey option. Nonetheless, it comes with a 1×12 drivetrain, with a single-chainring design effectively preventing chain drops. However, its suspension system is not top-notch, with 140mm front travel and 150mm rear travel, which may not fully meet rider demands.
The Specialized Status 160 can reach speeds of up to 36mph. While its aluminum frame may not be as lightweight, off-road biking exposes bikes to potential damage. Aluminum frames are easy to repair, and they offer excellent suspension performance. The mixed wheel sizes not only improve traction but also enhance handling.
Learn More: Is GT Sensor Sport Worth Buying? [2022 GT Sensor Sport Review]
Summary
This is our full review of the Specialized Status 160. It’s an outstanding full-suspension endurance mountain bike that performs exceptionally well in endurance riding, earning it a solid 4.7 rating. If you’re looking for more bike-related information, feel free to check out our other reviews.
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