Specialized tell us that they only include a women’s specific frame when they find that women have different needs – for example their brand new Ruze. 

The Ruze is a hardtail with a dedicated female geometry that is built around the 27.5+ – 6Fattie – tyres which mean it has a larger contact patch, more traction and more control.

Hardtails have been selling well, and the Ruze is designed to be the perfect bike for the woman that wants a trail capable, confidence inspiring ride without the added weight, cost or maintenance of full suspension

The Rhyme is also new for 2016.  The bike shares a frame with the ever popular Stumpjumer, but has custom tuned spring rates that allow a lighter rider to benefit from the full range of the suspension (140mm front and 135mm in the rear).

For an added party trick – carbon models have a ‘SWAT (storage, water, air, tools) door’ – where you can store essentials inside the frame without rattle or bump.

Ruze starts at £1400 and Rhyme at £2200.