Reader’s Rig: Matt’s Vintage Specialized Stumpjumper

Words and photos by Matt Drange

Howdy, I’m Matt from Oakland, California. My Specialized Stumpjumper is my do-everything bike. It’s gone through a few iterations, but I think this current one is the best yet. The goal with the build was simple: to make the ultimate, no-compromise commuter bike that I can still lock up and not fret (too much) about.

I scored the frame on eBay for $70. I initially tried a suspension-corrected steel fork, but found that it rode too upright. So, I swapped it out for Soma’s awesome low-trail fork, which made the top tube level and still clears those Compass Rat Trap Pass tires. Oakland-based framebuilder Erik Billings added the disc brake tab in the back, as well as a couple extra bottle cage mounts under the downtube. The rad Pass and Stow front rack is by Matt Feeney, another local framebuilder and maker of no-nonsense steel components. The rack is a perfect match for this frame, with its oversized tubes and long wheelbase, just begging to be loaded up.

As you can see from the build spec, I put the money where it counts with the rack, tires, and SRAM 1X10 shifters. Much of the rest of the build was sourced from the parts bin or purchased used. I wanted a super functional bike that could carry everything I’d need without breaking the bank or giving me heartburn when I lock it up, hence the lack of a generator hub. The sanded rust spots on the frame and plethora of stickers from some of my favorite bike brands. And how ’bout those original 90s purple decals!

• Frame 1993(?) Specialized Stumpjumper, 20.5″
• Fork Soma Champs Élysées Low Trail Disc
• Rims Stan’s Arch
• Hubs Shimano XT
• Tires Compass Rat Trap Pass
• Handlebars Easton EA50
• Headset FSA
• Crankset Specialized 167.5mm
• Pedals Shimano SPD/Platform
• Cassette 11-42
• Derailleur SRAM
• Brakes TRP Spyre
• Shifter(s) SRAM Red
• Saddle Specialized Phenom
• Seatpost Generic
• Stem Generic
• Racks Pass and Stow (front) / Tubus (rear)
• Other accessories Paul Chain Keeper, Velo Orange fenders, Stem Captain clock, Crane bell, King Cages

I constantly get compliments whenever I’m out with this bike, often from folks who say they wish they still had their old Stumpjumper. It’s still a ripper, too! If I could only have one bike, this would be it. And, for anyone wondering why the hell I have SO MANY spacers under the stem—this is a commuter bike! It’s also of course designed for flat handlebars and a 90s riser stem, both of which I’ve tossed out for this build. To me, a daily rider should be about comfort before speed. Long live 26″!

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