This is the official start of my dream XC race build, and I’m kicking it off the only way that makes sense: unboxing a brand-new Specialized S-Works Epic World Cup frame and getting it protected before it ever sees a Rotorua rock garden. I’m building this bike with the Whaka 100 in mind (and plenty more racing and big trail missions after that), so I want it fast, clean, and dialled from day one. The frame is the centrepiece of the whole project—light, purpose-built, and basically the platform I’ve been frothing for. Before I bolt on parts and start chasing lap times, I install a full RideWrap tailored kit. For me, it’s one of those “do it once, do it right” steps—because it’s way easier to protect fresh paint than to cry about chips later. This video is all about setting the foundation: frame first, protection next, then the real build can begin. If you’re planning your own dream build (or even a budget project you want to keep looking mint), this is the exact workflow I’d recommend: unbox, inspect, wrap, then ride.