Just ahead of the 2014 ITU Cross World Championships in Zittau, Germany we looked closer at the Specialized S-Works Epic 29er of defending champion Conrad Stoltz.

Conrad Stolz rids an XL Specialized S-Works Epic 29er

No surprise that Conrad has the number 1 plate on his cockpit.

Up close with the Fox rear suspension unit.

Specialized Roval Control SL wheels with Specialized Fast Track 29x2.0 tires and a RockShox with blackbox technology.

SRAM XX 160mm disc brakes handle the stopping.

Specialized Carbon Fact crank with 34 tooth Rotor chainring.

The Look pedals show signs of heavy use and tight cornering.

The SWAT box on the downtube allows Conrad to store some tools.

Conrad Stoltz rides a SRAM XX1 group on his Specialized S-Works race bike.

The red saddle is a Specialized Phenom and the post below it offers 35mm of travel.

Up close with the SRAM controls.

Conrad likes to ride with bar ends.

The fork crown of the RockShox of Conrad Stoltz.

There is a space for a small tool here.

A small tool like this one.

The non drive side of the Specialized S-Works.

All images © Karsten Täschner / slowtwitch.com