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I'm sure they're great and I like the simple look, but if you're looking at higher end gravel bikes be aware that similar prices can get you into frames and models with more fit choices, and care aspects that are great for gravel bikes such as no worries about paint and threaded bottom brackets.

The top big name bikes have prices like a Moots or similar with fewer sizes overall, and none of the fit options for that smaller size range. In addition to more sizes that Moots example gets you some fit and build options before you get into full custom fit - head tube length for example.
 

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I'm sure they're great and I like the simple look, but if you're looking at higher end gravel bikes be aware that similar prices can get you into frames and models with more fit choices, and care aspects that are great for gravel bikes such as no worries about paint and threaded bottom brackets.

The top big name bikes have prices like a Moots or similar with fewer sizes overall, and none of the fit options for that smaller size range. In addition to more sizes that Moots example gets you some fit and build options before you get into full custom fit - head tube length for example.
I wouldn’t compare this to Moots. I’ve ridden both.

The Crux is crazy light, especially the S-works spec that I rode. It was under 17lbs in a 58 with plastic flat pedals And tubes. Anyway—it felt like a racy road bike with a bit of spring and huge tires. It’s not for everyone’s needs, but wow it’s pretty cool. I was considering the Expert model for 6k, with is a bit heavier with Rival Xplr AXS and cheaper carbon wheels and heavier frame. I’m undecided, but it’s a pretty cool bike that needs to be ridden in person to really assess if it’s for you.
 

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I wouldn’t compare this to Moots. I’ve ridden both.

The Crux is crazy light, especially the S-works spec that I rode. It was under 17lbs in a 58 with plastic flat pedals And tubes. Anyway—it felt like a racy road bike with a bit of spring and huge tires. It’s not for everyone’s needs, but wow it’s pretty cool. I was considering the Expert model for 6k, with is a bit heavier with Rival Xplr AXS and cheaper carbon wheels and heavier frame. I’m undecided, but it’s a pretty cool bike that needs to be ridden in person to really assess if it’s for you.
I'm very sure it's great.

My point is the large bike makers' frames can be priced like others with far more options for fit, ride, and ability to service. Not so much Moots as the point but they'd be typical. My guess is the Specialized frame is 5-6 sizes for maybe $5000. A few firms like them or Moots will have any size, reach, stack, head tube height, with geometry and weight options for a similar price. For Moots there are 4 endurance/gravel models with 7 sizes before you go custom. Standard still gives you a no charge head tube length option. Again, no press fit f*ckry too!

:)
 

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I'm very sure it's great.

My point is the large bike makers' frames can be priced like others with far more options for fit, ride, and ability to service. Not so much Moots as the point but they'd be typical. My guess is the Specialized frame is 5-6 sizes for maybe $5000. A few firms like them or Moots will have any size, reach, stack, head tube height, with geometry and weight options for a similar price. For Moots there are 4 endurance/gravel models with 7 sizes before you go custom. Standard still gives you a no charge head tube length option. Again, no press fit f*ckry too!

:)
I totally get it--Moots and other custom manufacturers have a lot to offer. But don't discount this bike because it'd a Spesh. I dislike them, but they are bringing the heat with several bikes lately.

6 frame sizes, threaded bb, no goofy ****, $3200 for the regular frameset. (Adds 100 grams.)
 

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$3200 for a rigid frame set and the s-works stumpy frame with shock lists for $3000.
Someone please explain…
2 things maybe.....it might take more labor hours to make such a light gravel / road frame. It's also what the market bears and I think roadies and those crossing over to gravel are used to paying higher prices and Specialized knows they will sell. It sucks how expensive bikes are getting.
 

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No matter what they release or who they have pimping their wares, it is still a specialized and i would never give them money for anything. I also don't want to be associated with the people that do. there seems to be more an more brands that make statements or advertisements that polarize their image. It reminds me of Harley Davidson and the image that the brand has in consumers eyes. Some identify with it and some don't.
 

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No matter what they release or who they have pimping their wares, it is still a specialized and i would never give them money for anything. I also don't want to be associated with the people that do. there seems to be more an more brands that make statements or advertisements that polarize their image. It reminds me of Harley Davidson and the image that the brand has in consumers eyes. Some identify with it and some don't.
I'm not that familiar with their business practices or any specifics really, why do you dislike them?
 

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I'm not that familiar with their business practices or any specifics really, why do you dislike them?
My main issue is that they as a company and their shops act like their poo don't stink. they come out with bikes that frankly are not anything special and then their marketing talks about how grand and superior they are. They sell style over substance with only heavy marketing there to hold it up. their price tag reflects this and most annoyingly their customers hold that same sense of superiority out in the real world. I find their customer base to be very elitist and "all show no go". More concerned that everyone can see their shinny s-works logo than just riding their bike because they enjoy it. Just not a group of people that I want to be associated with. I am sure not all of them are that way. I am sure that Specialized makes good stuff but to me there is no value in their products. the prices are too high for what I can buy elsewhere. They also have a history of predatory lawsuits against other bike industry entities that are very tacky and questionable. I cant remember the specifics but I am sure there is still a thread about them.

To each their own but there are much better options from other companies.
 

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My main issue is that they as a company and their shops act like their poo don't stink. they come out with bikes that frankly are not anything special and then their marketing talks about how grand and superior they are.
I haven't ridden a new Crux, but have friends who have, and have also read many reviews, and comments from other new Crux owners - and the resounding comments are that this bike is something special, and better than most bikes in it's class.
 

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Just bought the Expert Crux in a 56 (I'm a tall gal). One test ride was all it took. This will be my main pavement bike come summer with some occasional gravel work. I've always had hand dexterity issues with SRAM double tap, but the Rival electric I can operate with my pinky. At an age, now, where I'm thinking going e-bike at some point, but this was my way of saying not yet.
 

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My main issue is that they as a company and their shops act like their poo don't stink. they come out with bikes that frankly are not anything special and then their marketing talks about how grand and superior they are. They sell style over substance with only heavy marketing there to hold it up. their price tag reflects this and most annoyingly their customers hold that same sense of superiority out in the real world. I find their customer base to be very elitist and "all show no go". More concerned that everyone can see their shinny s-works logo than just riding their bike because they enjoy it. Just not a group of people that I want to be associated with. I am sure not all of them are that way. I am sure that Specialized makes good stuff but to me there is no value in their products. the prices are too high for what I can buy elsewhere. They also have a history of predatory lawsuits against other bike industry entities that are very tacky and questionable. I cant remember the specifics but I am sure there is still a thread about them.

To each their own but there are much better options from other companies.
sounds like someone needs to take a sojourn to the top of the misty mountain and do some soul searching. A lot of what you posted sounds like a you issue. WTF do you care if someone drops $10k on a bike to ride how they want to ride. They are out there that’s what matters. Seems to me you’re the one judging people.

I can’t speak to all the shops across the country but the 2 next to me are very chill. Every time I need something I email specialized and they email me back within a day. More times than not they just ship me what I need. End caps, I’ll send you a pair. Pump broke I’ll send you a new one.

as far as marketing maybe they should just launch some campaigns that say yeah our stuffs ok. That makes sense.

i 100 disagree with the comment that you can find better cheaper everywhere. But I suppose it depends on how you define better. if you value a bike that’s sourced organically with hemp cables, only available by knowing the secret mtb handshake from a company that may or may not be in business in 5 years then knock yourself out. brah.

I’ve been riding specialized for over 20 years and see no need to switch. Is it the best, of course not. Do they suck of course not. they offer good bikes with good support.

I’m also 6’5” 240 lbs and appreciate their S6 frame which a lot of the boutique shops don’t offer.
 

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I found one. I bought it. Expert model. 17lbs 15ozs with two cages and Ti Crank Bros.

View attachment 1969845
View attachment 1969844
Beautiful bike, and that's about as light as my SW Tarmac SL6!!!

I've never been one to shy away from using the top tube in the stand, but there is no way in hell I would do that with the new Crux or Aethos. Pinging them compared to my current stable of bikes, they just seem so much thinner there.

Enjoy the bike, it's sure to be a great ride!
 

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I picked up a 2022 Specialized Crux Pro spontaneously (just happened across one in a shop...wasnt even in the market lol), coming from a 2021 Specialized Diverge... I prefer the Crux honestly. Significally lighter and more agile with close to the same single track capability, with being able to pretty much convert it to a crit race bike with a tire swap led me to selling the Diverge. The diverge maaaaybe felt slightly more capable on single track that's bordering on mountain bike terrain but the Crux is no slouch. If you are into bike packing get the Diverge, for anything else, the Crux is probably the better option.
 
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