Specialized Stumpjumper 15 with Cascade Components' High-Pivot Conversion Kit
Cascade Components has introduced an innovative high-pivot conversion kit for the Specialized Stumpjumper 15, aiming to enhance the bike's suspension platform. This kit reconfigures the Stumpjumper's suspension to a high-pivot design, enhancing rearward axle path characteristics.
The high-pivot design allows the rear wheel to move backward in response to impacts, improving the bike's ability to absorb bumps and maintain momentum over rough terrain. Alongside the kit boosts the rear suspension to 155mm, providing riders with greater cushioning and control on challenging trails.
By optimizing the axle path, the conversion kit provides better traction and stability, especially during cornering and technical descents. Designed specifically for the Specialized Stumpjumper 15, the big piece of CNC alloy somehow integrates pretty well with the existing frame. Cascade Components provides detailed installation instructions to facilitate the conversion process.
One of the standout changes with this high-pivot setup is the dramatically altered axle path. Compared to the stock Stumpjumper 15, which sees just a slight rearward movement—around 2mm—before the axle begins moving forward through its travel, the Cascade Components kit delivers a much more pronounced rearward trajectory. At 60% travel, the rear axle sits 12mm further back, maxing out at a hefty 21mm rearward shift by the end of the stroke.
Another notable change lies in the suspension's increased progression, which jumps from 12% to 18%, offering a more supportive and bottomless feel deeper in the travel. The addition of an idler pulley not only contributes to this updated kinematic layout but also plays a crucial role in minimizing pedal kickback. Interestingly, the idler is mounted directly to the linkage, which could open the door for fine-tuning anti-squat characteristics simply by adjusting its position.
Cascade Components hasn’t annouce official weight specs for the kit, but with the added hardware and a machined aluminum chainstay, expect a bit of extra heft compared to the standard setup. On the financial side, it's a definite "investment"—priced at $1,995 USD. Only 20 kits are available at launch, so if you're serious about transforming your Stumpjumper into a high-pivot beast, you’ll want to move quickly.
Obviously, this will erase the warranty from the face of the Earth.