Bicycles

Focus on: 2012 Specialized Venge S-Works

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Parent Category: Bicycles

Category: Specialized

Published on Wednesday, 23 November 2011 06:32

Written by Luca Salvatelli

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The Specialized Venge is the result of a long series of studies, at least according to Specialized official statmen, and even some born by accident, so it was decided to experiment and try to change a Specialized Transition with a classic handlebar road, test, very positive, led to the definition of a prototype that combined the aerodynamics of a Transition with the rigidity and lightness of the Tarmac.

In fact, we believe more likely that Specialized wanted to test the effectiveness of aero bikes, which were already present at the time of competition in the catalogues, and since the experiment it was decided to continue the positive development of a specific model. When Specialized is the only major bicycle manufacturers in the world to have an Aero bike in the catalogue, while the rest of the models belong to the producers, of renown, but with much lower production volumes. The Venge has also made a series of technical innovations in the construction of the frame, which were later introduced on the new Tarmac SL4. The collaboration with McLaren has led to the creation of a special version, which is further than 100 grams lighter, thanks to a more traditional manufacturing of prototypes and their F1. The monocoque frame is made of carbon fiber FACT IS 11r; the head tube is tapered bearings from 1"1/8 - 1"3/8, to obtain a frontal section contained, but equally rigid. The new full carbon fork has straight stems, large and aerodynamic profile, the dropouts are carbon as well as bearing housings, with the top integrated into the frame. The down tube, oversize houses the internal cable, and also the bottom bracket area is large. The tube has a profile similar to that of the Tarmac, slightly arched, but is larger in both height and width. The tube has an aerodynamic profile and generous proportions. It adopted a dedicated seatpost, according to UCI rules, which allows you to have a seatback of 10 mm and can be turned 180 degrees to have a seatback of 0 mm. The rear triangle, with large pipe section, see the aerodynamic shape of the tubes high, thus offering the lowest drag possible. Also in are made of carbon fiber dropouts. The bike is available in frame kit, while the bike assembled SRAM Red group to take the controls, brakes, sprockets, rear and front derailleur. The crankset is Specialized S-Works Carbon 53/39, with ceramic bearings. The chain is KMC. The Specialized Body Geometry Romin Evo saddle is, the stem is S-Works ProSet, while the handlebar is S-Works Carbon. The wheels are Roval Rapide SL 45, with S-Works Turbo tires. There are six sizes available. The frame kit will cost about 3000 Euro, while the assembled Dura Ace bike is priced at around 7000 Euro and less SRAM Red version. Prices high in absolute terms, but very competitive compared to direct competitors. It is not a light bike, like all the aero bike, but very rigid and with good aerodynamics. Expresses its full potential in the plains and at high speeds, which manages to be among the most competitive bike of the moment. Suffers from the climb, however slight, and acceleration from low speeds. A bike, then, for pure agony, who manages to get the most benefits in flat routes and fast. In general a bike more than excellent and offered at a high price, but honest.