Specialized Crux -releases The New Crux DSW, An Alloy Gravel Bike Weighing Under 10kg.

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Specialized recently unveiled the Crux DSW. It’s an alloy gravel bike, coming in below 10kg. This makes it perfect for those who love to ride fast and light¹. It’s all about finding the sweet spot between speed and agility. This way, riders can tackle any terrain they come across, showcasing Specialized’s dedication to top-notch quality and cutting-edge design.

Key Takeaways

Specialized Crux DSW is an alloy gravel bike weighing under 10kg¹.
Combines lightweight design with high performance.
Attractive to both cycling enthusiasts and competitive riders.
Emphasizes speed and agility across various terrains.
Reflects Specialized’s commitment to innovation and quality.

Introduction to the Specialized Crux DSW

The Specialized Crux DSW is perfect for those wanting a fast gravel bike. It’s light but strong, making it great for different rides. This bike shows how Specialized keeps improving gravel bikes.

Overview and Key Features

The Specialized Crux DSW is priced at $2600 and comes with 12-speed SRAM Apex². Its frame is made of lightweight alloy, it’s only 1399 grams. This makes it the lightest in its group².

It can fit tires up to 47mm, which are great for rough roads. Moreover, it can take 2.1” tires on smaller 650b wheels². The frame has a threaded bottom bracket and a 27.2mm seat post. This means it works well with both regular and electric gear².

It also works with UDH and looks like a carbon bike with its clean cable setup. People are very interested in the ways they can personalize the bike².

The Evolution of Specialized Gravel Bikes

Gravel bikes have quickly evolved into a key player. They first came out about 10 years ago and became very popular fast³. Before, people mostly had one bike, but now more enjoy having bikes fit for certain types of riding³.

The first clear ‘gravel bike’ was launched by Salsa Cycles in 2010³. The Unbound Gravel race started small in 2006 but is now one of the biggest gravel races³.

Now, there are many kinds of gravel bikes made for different paths. Some, like those from 3T, are for going fast. Others, like Niner’s, have suspension for rough conditions³. Specialized Crux bikes are part of this growing trend of specialized and versatile gravel bikes.

Specialized Crux DSW Specifications

The Specialized Crux DSW is a top-notch gravel bike perfect for any adventure. It’s engineered for the best performance on rough grounds. Let’s explore its unique features that make it outstanding.

Frame Material and Weight

The Crux DSW uses a smart aluminum frame designed by Specialized. It’s built to be both sturdy and light. The frame weighs just 1,399 grams, helping the bike stay light at 9.37 kg. This makes it a great pick for those who love to ride fast and hard⁴.

The slim tubes make the bike lighter, promising an excellent riding experience. It comes in six different sizes, making sure there’s one that fits you just right⁴.

Drivetrain and Components

This bike has top-quality gear like the SRAM Apex XPLR 1×12-speed setup. It uses an 11-44T cassette for smooth power and durability⁴⁵. The 1x 40t crankset ensures shifting is always reliable, even on rough trails. These top-notch parts boost the bike’s performance, putting it at the top of the list⁵.

Wheelset and Tires

The Crux DSW comes with durable DT Swiss G540 Aluminum Gravel Wheels. They’re matched with 700 x 38mm Pathfinder Pro tires, providing great traction and comfort over various surfaces⁵. Plus, it can fit tires as wide as 700 x 47 mm. Or go with 650B to fit 53 mm wide tires. This means the Crux DSW is ready for all kinds of rides⁴.

Specification	Detail
Frame Weight	1,399 grams
Fully Built Bike Weight	9.37 kg (56 cm)
Drivetrain	SRAM Apex XPLR 1×12-speed
Wheelset	DT Swiss G540 Aluminum Gravel Wheels
Tires	700 x 38mm Pathfinder Pro
Tire Clearance	700 x 47 mm or 53 mm in a 650B wheelsize

Performance on Different Terrains

The Specialized Crux DSW is made for all kinds of surfaces. This makes it great for biking on gravel, dirt, and even technical trails. It’s known for handling everything with ease and style.

Gravel and Dirt Roads

It excels on gravel and dirt. The bike is ultra-lightweight, under 10kg, which helps on bumpy paths⁶. It can fit wide tires for better grip, up to 47mm on 700C or 2.1in on 650B⁶. Its design offers stability and nimbleness, similar to what you’d find in cyclocross races⁶.

Trail Riding Capabilities

For trail riding, the Crux DSW is top-notch. Its frame is designed for stability on fast and tough trails⁷. The Roval Terra C wheels keep you steady on different surfaces⁶. Thanks to the SRAM Red eTap AXS, you get lots of gear choices for any type of trail⁶.

The tires are a good mix of comfort and traction. For the best performance in wet areas, you might want to consider other tire patterns⁶.

“The Specialized Crux DSW’s frame weighs just 725g for a 56cm size, making it the world’s lightest gravel bike.”⁸

All in all, the Crux DSW isn’t just a *gravel bike*. It’s a top pick for those who love *trail riding*, with unmatched *performance on all sorts of terrain*.

Unique Features of the Specialized Crux DSW

The Specialized Crux DSW is not your average gravel bike. It stands out with unique features and design innovation. Specialized aimed to make cycling better with this model, focusing on rider comfort and experience.

Design Innovation

The Crux DSW’s design is truly innovative for a gravel bike. Its frame is super light, weighing only 1,399 grams for a size 56. The addition of a 400-gram carbon fork⁴ makes it even better. This light build helps keep the bike’s weight down to just 9.37 kg in size 56⁹. Not to mention, the frame’s design allows for great performance without needing extras like fenders or racks⁴.

Rider Comfort Enhancements

Specialized really took rider comfort to heart with the Crux DSW. It’s made to handle tires up to 700 x 47 mm or 650B wheels up to 53 mm⁴⁹. This feature makes riding on rough roads a lot more comfortable. The bike’s geometry is designed for a comfy riding position. Plus, it comes in six different sizes to fit you perfectly, from 49cm to 61cm⁹.

The Crux DSW also includes controls that are easy on the hands and adjustable for your best fit. Specialized wants every ride to be smooth and fun, no matter the terrain.

Feature	Specification
Frame Weight (56 cm)	1,399 grams⁴
Total Bike Weight (Size 56)	9.37 kg⁹
Tire Clearance	700 x 47 mm or 650B wheels of up to 53 mm⁴⁹
Available Sizes	49 cm to 61 cm⁹

Comparing the Specialized Crux DSW with Other Models

The Specialized Crux DSW is a top choice in the world of gravel bikes. It’s known for being light, well-designed, and high-performing.

Specialized Crux vs. Diverge

Comparing the Specialized Crux to the Diverge, the Crux DSW is sleek and light for racing. Its frame weighs 1,399 grams and the whole bike is about 9.43 kg without pedals⁴. This makes it much lighter than the versatile and durable Specialized Diverge.

Although the Diverge is a bit heavier, it’s set up for adventures with lots of gear. It’s perfect for long rides and carrying things. On the other hand, the Crux DSW is quick and efficient. It’s perfect for people looking to ride fast on gravel. Plus, the Crux fits big tires, up to 700 x 47 mm or 53 mm on 650B wheels⁴¹⁰. This shows how adaptable it is compared to the Diverge, which focuses more on comfort over long distances.

Specialized Crux vs. Other Gravel Bikes

The Crux DSW outpaces other gravel bikes with its light weight and smart design. It’s lighter than models like the Trek Domane AL 2 and the Specialized Allez Sport. They are 10.41 kg and 9.51 kg, respectively, with their road-ready tires⁴.

The Crux DSW is very light, standing out for its weight among similar bikes. Cheaper than many carbon models, at $2,600¹⁰, it’s a great choice for those who love to race. It features an SRAM Apex XPLR 1×12-speed gear system⁴, which works well everywhere. This shows you can get quality and performance without breaking the bank.

Feature	Specialized Crux DSW	Specialized Diverge	Trek Domane AL 2	Specialized Allez Sport
Weight (kg)	9.43⁴	Varies	10.41⁴	9.51⁴
Frame Weight (grams)	1399¹⁰	Varies	Not specified	Not specified
Tire Clearance	700 x 47mm / 650B x 53mm⁴¹⁰	Varies	Not specified	Not specified
Price (USD)	2600¹⁰	Varies	Not specified	Not specified
Gearset	SRAM Apex XPLR 1×12-speed⁴	Varies	Not specified	Not specified

Specialized Crux Review by Experts and Users

The Specialized Crux stands out with its balance of lightness and high performance. It has impressed experts in the cycling world.

Professional Reviews

Experts highlight the Specialized Crux’s light weight as a standout feature. The 56 cm S-Works Crux frame only weighs 725 g. This makes it perfect for riders who want a light but durable option¹¹. They also praise how well power gets transferred by its top-notch drivetrain and parts. This has made it a favorite for racers⁷.

The top-of-the-line S-Works Crux comes at US$12,000. This price reflects its quality craftsmanship and advanced materials¹¹. The bike being chosen as the “Best Brand” in a 2022 survey solidifies its place in the market⁷.

Specialized Crux Review by Experts and Users

User Feedback and Experiences

Users love the Crux DSW for its great ride quality and how it handles different terrains. They find it very agile, especially on rough paths. The Specialized S-Works Crux’s light 7.27 kg for size 56 impresses too⁷.

Many praise the bike’s light build. They say it helps make the ride more lively and responsive. Plus, its adjustable geometry suits a variety of rider preferences⁷. The bike’s consistent chainstay length also ensures predictable handling across sizes¹¹⁷.

In gravel bike reviews, tips for tuning the Crux stand out. Things like thicker bar tape, a flexible seat post for more comfort, and narrow handlebars for racing are recommended⁷. These tweaks let riders customize their setups. This makes the Crux even more versatile and suited to individual riding styles.

Price and Availability of the Specialized Crux DSW

The Specialized Crux DSW is an outstanding pick in the gravel bike world. It stands out with its top-notch parts and superb build. This makes the specialized crux price worth it for its performance and quality.

MSRP and Retailer Listings

Looking for the specialized crux for sale? The complete Crux DSW is priced at $2500 / £2,300. Just the frameset costs $1700/ £1500⁵. It comes with a SRAM Apex 12-speed groupset and DT Swiss wheels, showing excellent value¹².

It’s quite light at about 9.37 kg, making it one of the lighter options out there⁵¹². You can buy it from online or specialized stores, with many payment options available.

Regional Availability

The Specialized Crux DSW is available all around the world. This means cycling fans from different places can find it. They can choose the right fit from local specialized retailers, who can also help with the setup.

Whether you’re in North America, Europe, or anywhere else, you’ll find the specialized crux for sale. This wide availability shows its strong appeal and easy access for many.

Model	Price (MSRP)	Weight	Components
Specialized Crux DSW Complete Build	$2500 / £2,300	9.37 kg	SRAM Apex 12-speed, DT Swiss Wheels
Specialized Crux DSW Frameset	$1700 / £1500	1.4 kg (frame)	Fact Carbon Gravel Fork
Trek Checkpoint ALR 5	$3,000	9.86 kg	Shimano GRX
Merida Silex 700	$3,200	10.14 kg	Shimano 105
Canyon Grizl 7	$2,700	10.68 kg	Shimano GRX

Expected Maintenance and Upkeep

The Specialized Crux DSW is high-performance yet easy to keep up. Keeping up with maintenance is key for a long bike life. We’ll look at how to best maintain a specialized crux, dealing with common problems and fixes.

Regular Maintenance Recommendations

It’s vital to maintain your Specialized Crux DSW often. Start with the chain, changing it every 1,000-3,000 miles for road bikes. Mountain bike chains need replacing every 500-1,000 miles¹³. A new chain could set you back about $35¹³.

Don’t forget about the cables and housing. Changing them both keeps your bike running well. It usually costs around $15¹³. Following these advice boosts your maintenance routine.

Common Issues and Solutions

Knowing common bike issues can save you lots of trouble. Tires need to be checked and rotated often to last longer. It helps to know how road and mountain bike tires wear differently¹³. A tire replacement might cost you $50¹³ each.

Keep an eye on clipless pedals too. Wear shows up so you know when to change them. Each replacement can be $10-20¹³. Remember to change cables and housing for good braking and shifting.

Changing hydraulic disc brakes can be hard but tackles it. It’s crucial for safety and top performance.

Ignoring the chain can cause more damage and cost later on. Being diligent with maintenance saves money and boosts your biking joy¹³.

Accessories and Customization Options

Specialized has a lot of accessories for the Crux DSW. These cool items make your bike look better and work smoother. They fit the needs of riders who want to make their bikes unique or perform better.

Recommended Accessories

The Specialized SL Range-Extender Battery adds up to 40 miles (64 km) of power. It’s great for longer rides¹⁴. Need space to carry things? The Specialized Turbo Tero Equipment Kit has a rear rack that holds up to 27kg¹⁴. For even more space, the Specialized Globe Adjustable Cargo Rail can help. It has three widths and four heights¹⁴.

Keeping your bike safe is important. The Specialized Kryptonite Evolution 1090 Chain Lock is a strong choice at $110.00¹⁴. Want to easily check and fill your tires? The Specialized Air Tool UHP Floor Pump can handle up to 350psi, which is great for different parts of your bike¹⁴.

Customization for Enhanced Performance

Want to boost your ride’s performance? The Specialized Tailwind can cut down drag and save battery power up to 6%¹⁴. If you’re into aerodynamics, consider the Specialized Clip-On Clamp with Pads. It works with aero extension bars for better wind cutting¹⁴. The Specialized Globe Front Rack holds up to 20kg (44lb) and helps with many biking needs¹⁴.

For more comfort and storage, try the Specialized/Fjallraven Handlebar Bag. It has elastic pockets and a shoulder strap for long rides¹⁴. Lastly, for a lot more room, the Specialized Globe Pannier Adapters can carry up to 8kg (18lb) on each side. They’re great for packing extra on your rides¹⁴.

Environmental and Sustainability Considerations

The Specialized Crux model is a big step in cycling’s green future. Specialized shines in keeping the planet in mind with how they make biking gear. They focus on finding eco-friendly materials and making sure their bikes are kind to the environment. Their efforts show they want their creations to support the Earth.

Material Sourcing and Manufacturing Practices

Specialized chooses materials for the Crux that are gentle on the planet. They work with suppliers who use eco-friendly ways. This keeps their production line in tune with making cycling more sustainable. Their choices help the environment, fitting with their bigger goal of green biking.

Long-term Sustainability Efforts by Specialized

Specialized is committed to doing even better for the planet over time. They share their voting records often on their site, wanting more open talks about making the world cleaner. They have worked hard for over 30 years without a solution to the sustainability problem. As a UNPRI signatory, they’re all about being clear and checking in yearly on how green their investments are¹⁵. This dedication matches key ideas from important past papers on sustainable development and community-focused resource use¹⁶.

Aspect	Specialized Crux Model	Industry Average
Material Sourcing	Sustainable materials	Mixed sustainability standards
Manufacturing Practices	Eco-friendly processes	Conventional processes
Company Commitment	UNPRI signatory	Variable commitments
Transparency	Quarterly voting records	Annual or less frequent

Conclusion

The release of the Specialized Crux DSW is a major step in gravel bike technology. It’s made to be light yet fast for cyclists who want quick, agile rides anywhere. With Specialized leading as the top brand in 2022, this model shows their commitment to making quality, new bikes for better riding experiences⁷.

This bike has a unique design. It makes for an exciting and fun ride. It can handle big tires, making it ready for various road conditions. Also, its light frame at only 7.27 kg adds to its popularity with fans⁷.

The Crux DSW comes with top-notch parts, like the SRAM Red eTap AXS and the strong Roval Terra C wheels⁶. Its frame is just 725g, showing Specialized’s aim for high performance and lightness⁶. It also has strong brakes with 160mm rotors front and back for safety, making it a top pick for gravel biking fans⁶.

To wrap up, the Specialized Crux DSW shows the brand’s push for better biking technology. A product of smart design and quality features, it truly marks a new standard in gravel biking. The Specialized Crux DSW isn’t just a bike; it’s a symbol of the latest in biking innovation made for today’s riders.

FAQ

What is the Specialized Crux DSW?

The Specialized Crux DSW is a special type of bike. It’s made for adventures on gravel paths. This bike is very light and fast because of its special frame and design.

What are the key features of the Specialized Crux DSW?

It comes with a strong but light aluminum frame. This helps you ride smoothly and roll over rough paths with ease. It also has a great system that helps you pedal better and wheels that keep you steady.

How has the Specialized Crux evolved over time?

The Crux has gotten even better over time. With new materials and ways to build it, it now rides faster and handles different paths very well. The newest version, the Crux DSW, shows the best of these improvements.

What are the specifications of the Specialized Crux DSW?

The Crux DSW has a special aluminum frame that is very light. It also has top-quality parts and wheels that grip well on any path.

How does the Crux DSW perform on different terrains?

It does great on gravel and dirt. The design helps absorb bumps and keeps you feeling in control. Even on tough trails, it stays stable, making you more confident in your ride.

What unique features does the Specialized Crux DSW offer?

The Crux DSW has special features to keep your ride comfy and help you ride better. It adjusts to fit you just right and makes sure you feel good when you ride, no matter the path.

How does the Specialized Crux DSW compare to other models such as the Diverge?

The Crux DSW is really focused on being fast and great for races. The Diverge is more about being ready for any long ride. The Crux DSW stands out because it’s so light and quick among other gravel bikes.

What do experts and users say about the Specialized Crux DSW?

Experts love how light it is and how well it performs. People who use the bike at all levels are happy with its quality and handling. Many reviews show that the Crux DSW is one of the best gravel bikes out there.

How much does the Specialized Crux DSW cost and where can I buy it?

It’s priced well for its top components. To see the cost and where to buy it, you can look online. It’s available in many places around the world.

What kind of maintenance does the Crux DSW require?

The Crux DSW needs regular care to keep it in great shape. Stick to the maintenance schedule and fix any issues quickly. It’s designed to be easy to take care of and keep running well.

Are there any accessories or customization options for the Specialized Crux DSW?

Yes, you can find extra parts and ways to make the Crux DSW suited just for you. Whether for performance or looks, there are options to make it just how you want it.

What sustainability practices does Specialized follow with the Crux DSW?

Specialized cares about the planet. They try to use eco-friendly materials and ways to make the bikes. This is part of their big effort to be green in biking.