The 2024 FOCUS PARALANE has all the essentials you need for the long haul, including a few modern extras, prioritising comfort and a subtle look. To this end, FOCUS have combined aerodynamic features with mudguards, ensuring both speed and everyday utility. Is it the ultimate all-roader? Focus Paralane 8.9 | 8.6 kg in size L | € 5,299 | Manufacturer’s website This bike was tested as part of the 2024 all-road shootout – you can find an overview of the test field here: 2024 all-road shootout – The four hottest all-road bikes head to head. Until recently, FOCUS’ drop-bar portfolio had a big gap between their race and gravel bikes. But then, in December, they introduced the 2024 FOCUS PARALANE. But wait a minute, we’ve seen the FOCUS PARALANE before, right? Correct. FOCUS first launched the PARALANE in 2017, and dropped it in 2022. The latest version introduces quite a few changes. In addition to an aggressive look that is strongly reminiscent of its high-performance sibling, the IZALCO MAX, they’ve resorted to NACA tube shapes for aero gains. At € 5,299, it’s the most affordable all-road bike of this shoot-out. However, it’s also the heaviest, tipping the scales at 8.6 kg. What is the 2024 FOCUS PARALANE 8.9 made of? The 2024 FOCUS PARALANE is consistently unobtrusive, minimalistic, timeless, and classy. It’s also got a relatively aggressive look. The mudguards water this down somewhat, while also shaping the bike’s appealing randonneur character. Somehow, it’s the opposite of a fancy look that you quickly grow tired of. The matt black parts of the frame aren’t random but rely on a special finish that’s intended to protect exposed areas. However, FOCUS include a set of protective film stickers, nonetheless. The top tube bag is included in the delivery, too, and it’s got a nicely matching shape. Thanks to three bosses on the down tube, there are two different positions for the bottle cage, which is very convenient when using a frame bag. Unfortunately, the stem is rather unattractive: it’s too chunky, and not as elegant as the rest of the bike. Fortunately, the bolts are all nicely hidden, unlike on the GIANT Defy. Changing the handlebar has been simplified thanks to semi-integrated cable routing. The branding is unobtrusive, which contributes to the bike’s timeless look. Thumbs up for the top tube bag!The top tube bag is included, which is incredibly convenient, and it fits the bike seamlessly. Long and fast.The matching PARALANE mudguards aren’t just very long, but also super-quick to install and remove. Good entry!The cables are semi-integrated neatly into the stem. This allows for easy adjustment of the handlebar with an otherwise clean look. The FOCUS PARALANE 8.9 comes specced with a Shimano 2×12 ULTEGRA Di2 groupset, consisting of a 50/34 t crankset paired with an 11–34 t cassette. This suits the bike quite well, and the gear range should be sufficient in most cases. You might want a few easier gears after twelve hours in the saddle, and with all your gear strapped to the bike. It rolls on aluminium DT Swiss ER 1600 wheels. All other bikes in the test field feature carbon rims, but robust aluminium wheels definitely suit the PARALANE very well. Added to this is an equally sensible threaded BSA bottom bracket. When the time comes, you’ll easily source a new bottom bracket, and replacing it should be a breeze. The 27.2 mm diameter Easton EC70 seat post also relies on established standards, though, unfortunately, it doesn’t have a special flexing design like those on the other bikes in the test field. And the PARALANE could certainly do with a little more compliance. Regarding the Easton EC70 AX handlebar: some love it, others complain about its ergonomics. The tops aren’t flattened, and the round tubing can press uncomfortably on the palms of your hands under certain circumstances. That said, it’s very comfortable in the drops. Specialized and GIANT rely on high-end tires from their in-house brands, and Canyon spec the significantly more performance oriented Continental GP5000. The FOCUS PARALANE comes specced with Vittoria Rubino Pro TLR tires, which are heavier and more cumbersome in direct comparison. However, they deliver a high mileage and good puncture resistance with their 150 TPI nylon casings. The dedicated mudguards match the bike’s character to a tee, though they reduce the tire clearance from 35 to 33 mm. They’re available for an additional € 59.99. The components of the 2024 FOCUS PARALANE prioritise simplicity and durability, rather than performance and exclusivity, and they seem very sensibly chosen. Convenient!The threaded BSA bottom bracket is easy to replace, and replacements are easy to come by. Well-rounded!With its round, 27.2 mm seat post, the PARALANE also relies on an established standard here instead of fancy, flexy shapes. Focus Paralane 8.9 € 5,299SpecificationsBattery ´Fork Paralane Carbon discSeatpost Easton EC70, carbon 27.2 mmBrakes Shimano Ultegra R8170 160 mmDrivetrain Shimano Ultegra Di2 R8150 12s 2 x 12Chainring 50/34TStem FOCUS C.I.S. 2.0 100 mmHandlebar Easton EC70 AX, carbon 420 mmWheelset DT Swiss ER 1600 12 x 100/12 x 142 mm Through AxleTires Vittoria Rubino Pro TLR 700 x 32c 32Cranks Shimano Ultegra FC-R8100 50/34 172.5 mmCassette Shimano Ultegra 8100 11-34TTechnical DataSize XS S M L XLSpecific Featuresrandonneur all-road biketop tube bag includedmatching mudguards availablecomponents prioritise simplicity and durability How does the 2024 FOCUS PARALANE 8.9 fare on the test track? The 2024 FOCUS PARALANE will grow on you quickly. It doesn’t take long to acclimatise yourself to the handling or the riding position. The position feels balanced yet also quite aggressive. Compared to the more compact Canyon Endurace, the PARALANE feels rather stretched. You could say that it’s got true endurance geometry, like that of the steel randonneuring bikes of old. This is great when riding on asphalt, but it takes some getting used to on unpaved surfaces. The handling of the 2024 FOCUS PARALANE is balanced, and doesn’t come with any big surprises. It’s neither nervous nor demanding, just absolutely composed. However, it doesn’t motivate you to sprint for the finish or chase your local KOM. Instead, the bike encourages you to find your flow, and can just cruise along. It’s somewhat contradictory to the aggressive riding position and racy look. Once the FOCUS PARALANE is up to speed, it just wants to keep going. While the bike does occasionally motivate you to get into the drops and sprint on the straights, it’s just for a little fun, not for the podium. Long, open corners are a blast, as the bike allows you to navigate them at high speed. However, it demands a lot of input on winding descents. In terms of terrain, the PARALANE clearly feels at home on asphalt. Its compliance isn’t outstanding, but it’s perfectly sufficient for most road conditions. However, it’s only suitable for off-road detours and excursions into the unknown to a limited extent. You can clearly feel the vibrations on gravel roads, especially compared to the other all-road bikes on test, which all rely on special damping elements. This bike favours long-distance flow and has a real randonneur feel. Helm MET Allroad MIPS | Brille Alba Delta | Jacke Pas Normal Off-Race Fleece Vest | Shirt FJÄLLRÄVENxSPECIALIZED S/F WOOL CALISWE T-SHIRT M | Hose Pas Normal Mechanism | Schuhe udog TENSIONE PURE BLACK Who is the 2024 FOCUS PARALANE 8.9 for? Anyone looking for a reliable companion rather than a quick adventure is well-advised to go with the 2024 FOCUS PARALANE. If, on the other hand, you’re looking for more of the racing type, this all-road bike is not for you. In that case, the GIANT is the better choice. However, if riding pleasure and flow are more important to you than breaking records, and if you ride for the feeling, it’s perfectly suited to you. In any case, the PARALANE is guaranteed to be fun as a fast commuter, and on long asphalt rides. To be honest, it’s a bike that probably suits more people than they’d like to admit. Tuning tip: Tan-wall tires for a randonneur look. Riding Characteristics 4AgilitycumbersomeplayfulStabilitynervousconfidentHandlingdemandingbalancedFun factorboringlivelyComfortfirmcomfortableValue for moneyterriblevery goodTechnical DataFocusParalane 8.9Size: XS S M L XLWeight: 8,6Price: € 5,299Indended UseSmooth tarmac 1Allroad/Gravel 2Everyday/Commuting 3 Our conclusion on the FOCUS PARALANE 8.9 The FOCUS PARALANE 8.9 is a perfect companion for those relaxed, pleasant, and long days in the saddle. It will ride with you through thick and thin. It’s a superbly balanced and intuitive endurance all-road bike that feels most comfortable on asphalt. That said, it can handle short detours on forest service roads. The components prioritise simplicity and durability. It’s not a fancy superbike that stands out from the crowd, but a down-to-earth road bike for the long haul. Topsoriginal endurance charactertimeless lookmatching mudguardsFlopstires feel somewhat sluggish and cumbersome For more information, visit focus-bikes.com No, it’s not about perfect race tracks, it’s about efficiency. Fast, fleet-footed and efficient – those who want to speed along high-speed passages need a defined and spritely bike that accelerates with ease and efficiency. Nevertheless, reliable components are important too. We interpret “Smooth tarmac” bikes as follows: Hard efforts at high speeds with a maximum efficient bike on a consistently well-paved road. Effort-joy ratio: 80:30 (not everything has to be 100%!)↩… also known as bike riding. Broken-up roads in the hinterland, deadlocked gravel roads, loose surfaces – sometimes muddy, sometimes bone-dry. For this, it takes bikes with super all-round, handling and wearing qualities uphill and downhill. Effort-joy ratio: 50:50↩If you want to use your bike almost every day, you usually do not need an extremely tuned racing machine. Solid components, which are able to cope with the rigours of continuous usage in any kind of weather, are part of the basic equipment. At the same time, the bike should have practicable details: integrated fenders/assembly options, luggage racks/attachment points and a light system or at least the option of installing bike lights. The position on the bike should be rather relaxed, the overall comfort high, so that the Afterwork Ride becomes a cure and not a curse. Effort-joy ratio: 30:70↩You can find more info about our rating system in this article: Click here! ↩Der Beitrag FOCUS PARALANE 8.9 – Back to the roots yet up to date? erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

In a breakthrough performance, Arkéa - B&B Hotels' Kevin Vauquelin overcame the horrendous weather conditions to thrive on the Mur de Huy at La Fleche Wallonne 2024, taking a close second on the day. “We experienced tough conditions today which eliminated a lot of favourites. So there were opportuni...

The Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero features that classic Canyon look, with added comfort, and a super-clean monocoque cockpit. It’s also got a convenient tool roll integrated into the top tube. Can this combination outperform the all-road competition, and does it live up to its Endurace name? Canyon Endurace CS SLX 8 AXS Aero | 8.3 kg in size M | € 5,499.00 | Manufacturer’s website This bike was tested as part of the 2024 all-road shootout – you can find an overview of the test field here: 2024 all-road shootout – The four hottest all-road bikes head to head. The Endurace has a very long tradition in Canyon’s portfolio. The first model was launched as far back as 2016. Even then, the focus was on long distances, for what used to be called “marathon”. Either way, the Canyon Endurace is and has always been a bike for long days in the saddle. Also on board since 2016: the now iconic Canyon S15 seat post. And, as hard as it is to believe, they even had models with rim brakes and mechanical shifting back then! But how does the current version fare, priced at € 5,499, featuring an integrated tool roll, weighing 8.30 kg, and available exclusively with a wireless drivetrain and disc brake? What’s the 2024 Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero made of? High-tech performance meets modern flair in the Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero. That’s according to some. To others, it looks like a cold, functional engineering design. In any case, the new Endurace has an edgy, rocket-ship look that isn’t necessarily aggressive but definitely hints at performance. The structured surface on the fork, seat stays, and seat tube isn’t just eye-catching, it also offers aero gains, according to Canyon. Unfortunately, the “Desert Grey” colour isn’t exactly a feast for the eyes. It looks quite vintage and gives the bike a 1996 Opel Astra vibe. Of course, this is a matter of taste, though we feel that it detracts from the bike’s otherwise modern look. Fortunately, there are other colours to choose from. Be that as it may, pairing the bronze shimmer with tan-wall tires is a definite no-go! With aero in the name, the Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero isn’t complete without aero details. These include elongated tubing profiles, a cut-out for the rear wheel, and flat faces. The one-piece handlebar and stem unit also matches the bike’s aero ambitions. “One-peace” cockpitThe monocoque handlebar and stem results in a fantastic look and feel. We can definitely make peace with that. Snake charmer!The tool roll in the top tube is convenient, but not perfectly executed. Too wide or too narrow?You can adjust the handlebar width in just a few simple steps. The spec of the Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero leans more toward road cycling, especially compared to the other three all-road bikes on test. The deep profile rims, svelte look, and 30/32 mm front and rear tires are clearly at home on the asphalt. However, there is clearance for 35 mm tires, which would cater to gravel road excursions. A knock-block steering limiter prevents the handlebar from damaging the frame. You’ve got a 12-speed SRAM Force AXS groupset paired with a 10–33 t cassette and 46/33 t crankset ensuring rapid shifting, as well as a power metre. The gearing suits the build and offers sufficient range, provided you don’t leave the road. The DT Swiss ERC 1400 DICUT wheelset is an excellent choice, featuring 35 mm deep profile rims with a relatively wide 22 mm internal width, which is in line with the current trend of increasing tire widths. Canyon also include a chainstay protector, which makes perfect sense, despite the road-oriented build. The Canyon S15 VCLS 2.0 CF seat post also matches the bike’s looks while offering added comfort. GoosebumpsThe small knobs suit the Endurace really well. However, it’s questionable whether the golf ball look actually offers an aero advantage. Comfort guaranteeThe popular and comfortable Canyon S15 seat post is a staple feature on the Endurace. Canyon Endurace CS SLX 8 AXS Aero 2023€ 5,499SpecificationsFork Canyon FK0129 CF DiscSeatpost Canyon S15 VCLS 2.0 CF 27.2 mmBrakes SRAM Force AXS HRD 160 mmDrivetrain SRAM Force AXS 12s 2 x 12Chainring 46/33TStem Canyon CP0018 Aerocockpit 100 mmHandlebar Canyon CP0018 Aerocockpit 410 mmWheelset DT Swiss ERC 1400 Dicut 12 x 100/12 x 142 mm Through AxleTires Schwalbe Pro One TLE 700 x 32c 30 32Cranks SRAM Force AXS Powermeter 46/33 172.5 mmCassette SRAM XG 1270 10-33TTechnical DataSize 3XS 2XS XS S M L XL 2XLSpecific Featuresvery compact geometryroad setup through and throughtool kit in the top tubesupremely comfortable How does the Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero fare on our test track? Once you’ve swung your leg over the saddle and are rolling along, the Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero will soon have you in a compact and comfortable riding position. It’s rather aggressive, nevertheless. As such, the name EnduRace suits the bike perfectly in this respect. In contrast to the comfort-oriented Specialized Roubaix, it feels significantly more like it wants to race, which is further underlined by the handling. The bike is stiff and responsive, resulting in a very direct power transfer. It feels super lively upon acceleration as well as on the climbs, raring to go at every opportunity. Add to that the agile and direct steering, letting you control the Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero with pin-point precision. This combination lets you summit mountains and hills in no time, and ride down even quicker. The hardest part is reigning in your enthusiasm and not pedalling all out all the time. It’s a completely different riding experience, especially compared to the more comfortable FOCUS PARALANE 8.9. The seat post and cockpit on the Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero compensate for what the stiff frame lacks in terms of compliance. In fact, the Canyon S15 VCLS 2.0 CF seat post made the Endurace by far the most comfortable bike on test, at least at the rear. It takes the sting out of all road conditions, no matter how rough or poorly maintained. The Continental GP5000 tires offer plenty of grip and excellent rolling characteristics on asphalt, though you’ll want to avoid gravel and dirt roads with this setup. A second wheelset with grippier 35 mm tires, like the Schwalbe G One RS, could make the Endurace significantly more versatile. Let’s address the tool roll in the top tube. On the one hand, it’s extremely convenient and easy to reach, but on the other hand, it is always in your field of view. The tool set includes all the essentials, made up of eight bits, one ratchet, tire levers, a CO₂ cartridge, and Dynaplug, available for an additional € 14.95. The set comes to 192 g. Unfortunately, it can be a bit fiddly to use, and the flap got jammed several times during our test. The plastic closure is more reminiscent of a battery compartment on a children’s toy than a premium bike. Overall, it’s a good idea, but the execution leaves room for improvement. We can’t think of a better name for this bike than Endurace! Helmet MET ESTRO MIPS | Glasses OAKLEY RADAR | Jersey VOID Armour Long Sleeve | Bib GIRO Chrono Sport | Shoes FIZIK VENTO POWERSTRAP R2 AEROWEAVE Who is the Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero for? The Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero is a fast endurance bike for winding and fast descents. It’s ideal for those who like to ride long AND fast, and predominantly on asphalt. However, with a second set of 35 mm gravel tires, you could turn the Endurace into a gravel racer. It doesn’t invite you to cruise along and take in the sights, but rather to churn out watts and eat up kilometres. Group rides, all-day epics, and long-distance events are where it’s most comfortable. Tuning tip: Black tires and an Opel Astra in the matching colour Riding Characteristics 4AgilitycumbersomeplayfulStabilitynervousconfidentHandlingdemandingbalancedFun factorboringlivelyComfortfirmcomfortableValue for moneyterriblevery goodTechnical DataCanyonEndurace CS SLX 8 AXS AeroSize: 3XS 2XS XS S M L XL 2XLWeight: 8,3Price: € 5,499Indended UseSmooth tarmac 1Allroad/Gravel 2Everyday/Commuting 3 Our conclusion on the Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero The Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero certainly lives up to its name. It combines race-oriented elements with long distance comfort. It’s a bike that makes you want to ride long distances at a fast pace. However, this build is aimed more at asphalt. Before venturing off onto dirt roads, you will need to swap out the tires on the Endurace and max out the 35 mm tire clearance. With the Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8, all-road actually means road, and EnduRace. Topshighly comfortable on all asphalt conditionslively handlinghigh fun factorvalue for moneyFlopsthe closure of the storage compartment in the top tubetan wall tires For more information visit canyon.com No, it’s not about perfect race tracks, it’s about efficiency. Fast, fleet-footed and efficient – those who want to speed along high-speed passages need a defined and spritely bike that accelerates with ease and efficiency. Nevertheless, reliable components are important too. We interpret “Smooth tarmac” bikes as follows: Hard efforts at high speeds with a maximum efficient bike on a consistently well-paved road. Effort-joy ratio: 80:30 (not everything has to be 100%!)↩… also known as bike riding. Broken-up roads in the hinterland, deadlocked gravel roads, loose surfaces – sometimes muddy, sometimes bone-dry. For this, it takes bikes with super all-round, handling and wearing qualities uphill and downhill. Effort-joy ratio: 50:50↩If you want to use your bike almost every day, you usually do not need an extremely tuned racing machine. Solid components, which are able to cope with the rigours of continuous usage in any kind of weather, are part of the basic equipment. At the same time, the bike should have practicable details: integrated fenders/assembly options, luggage racks/attachment points and a light system or at least the option of installing bike lights. The position on the bike should be rather relaxed, the overall comfort high, so that the Afterwork Ride becomes a cure and not a curse. Effort-joy ratio: 30:70↩You can find more info about our rating system in this article: Click here! ↩Der Beitrag Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero – All in the name of speed and distance? erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

Cyclist Cyclist Magazine Podcast episode 103: Ex-pro Scott Sunderland on 90s cycling, Classics, Cancellara, breaking stuff and RideLondon This week on the Cyclist Magazine Podcast, James and Will talk to ex-pro, team DS and race director Scott Sunderland. Today, Sunderland is race director for the RideLondon Classique and Tour of Flanders among others, but during the 1990s and 2000s he rode professionally for TVM, Lotto and GAN before taking on sports director roles at Team CSC and Cervélo Test Team. Here, Sunderland talks racing through the troubled 1990s; a near career-ender when he got hit by a team car; orchestrating Classics wins with Fabian Cancellara; and breaking tens of thousands of pounds of kit in the Arenberg Forest, all in the name of science. Honest. We also discuss the upcoming RideLondon Classique Women’s WorldTour race, which takes place on 24th-26th May. Interview begins at 9.28. For details of the RideLondon Classique, hit this link. Listen to Cyclist Magazine Podcast episode 103 now on Acast Check out all episodes Also available wherever you get your podcasts Did you know Cyclist is also stunning monthly magazine? Subscribe now at store.cyclist.co.uk/cycpod and get every issue for less than in the shops, delivered straight to your door. This episode is brought to you by ketones experts deltaG. deltaG makes a variety of ketone drinks to use for different situations, so head over to deltaGketones.com to explore the science, and use the code CYCLIST for 20% off your first purchase. The post Cyclist Magazine Podcast episode 103: Ex-pro Scott Sunderland on 90s cycling, Classics, Cancellara, breaking stuff and RideLondon appeared first on Cyclist.

In a titanic battle on the Mur de Huy, Elisa Longo Borghini, Demi Vollering and Katarzyna Niewiadoma went head-to-head at La Fleche Wallonne Femmes. In the end, it was Niewiadoma who proved strongest. "I think Niewiadoma went in a perfect spot. She was the strongest today, and to be fair and honest...

Ben Healy and Archie Ryan of EF Education-EasyPost endured a testing day at La Flèche Wallonne when the Belgian spring thew everything at the riders in the shape of rain, sleet and even snow, with some of the riders suffering hypothermia. In an usual, and riveting, edition of the midweek Ardennes classic, the field was […] The post Tough day for Ben Healy and Archie Ryan at Flèche Wallonne | Video appeared first on Sticky Bottle.

More is more! According to Specialized, that holds true for the perfect all-road bike. The Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL8 therefore offers plenty of tire clearance, extra damping thanks to the Future Shock and Pavé seat post, and mounting points for mudguards and bags. Is that still all-road or have we ventured into gravel territory? Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL8 | 7.36 kg in Größe 56 | € 14,000 | Manufacturer’s website This bike was tested as part of the 2024 all-road shootout – you can find an overview of the test field here: 2024 all-road shootout – The four hottest all-road bikes head to head. Categories often make our lives easier. This applies to music, food and, of course, bicycles. This is punk rock, and these are vegetables. But what about the Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL8? It’s not that easy to place it into a neat category. With a tire clearance of up to 40 mm, and dedicated shock-absorbers, the Specialized Roubaix, which they’re calling a long-distance bike, has clearly outgrown the endurance category and its originally intended use. It even goes way beyond the demands of the all-road segment. Despite all its features, however, the S-Works weighs just 7.36 kg, making it the second lightest all-road bike in the shootout. How can that be? The retail price of € 14,000 suggests that there is a lot that’s gone into achieving this. Is it over-engineered or the best that money can buy? What is the 2024 Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL8 made of? Conspicuously inconspicuous! The 2024 Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL8 certainly stands out from the crowd. But not in the usual sense, and not always in the best sense. For example, the design language isn’t entirely coherent. The hump in the top tube, the long seat tube, and the riser handlebar look a little awkward. The Future Shock by the stem doesn’t look entirely right either. In general, however, the integration of the latest Future Shock 3.3 system looks a lot better than previous iterations. The finish and branding, on the other hand, are stylish, classy, and understated. As a whole, it’s a very cool and premium looking bike. The oil-slick chain serves a visual highlight and an eye-catcher, which suits the bike well. Its extravagance is hidden in the details of the Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL8. The S-Works lettering on the down tube isn’t in your face, but is kept nice and subtle. You have to look twice to see it. The same applies to the big S on the head tube. The oil-slick finish on the chain and cassette serves as an eye-catcher on the otherwise very discreet bike. The recessed seat post clamp and the rubber boot on top of it don’t feel as refined as the rest of the bike. The spec of the Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL8 leaves nothing to be desired. You get a 12-speed SRAM Red eTAP AXS drivetrain with a 46/33 t crankset and 10–33 t cassette, ensuring impeccable shifting. The gear range is absolutely fine, at least on the road. However, it’s almost too narrow for excursions on steep gravel slopes. Thanks to Future Shock 3.3 suspension, which offers 20 mm travel, and the Pavé seat post, there shouldn’t be any shortage of damping. The Future Shock can be adjusted via the dial that replaces the stem cap. Room for more! The 40 mm tire clearance is enough to accommodate gravel tires. Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL8 2023€ 14,000SpecificationsFork Future Shock 3.3 w/ Smooth Boot, FACT CarbonSeatpost Specialized D-Shape CarbonBrakes SRAM Red eTap AXS HRD 160 mmDrivetrain SRAM Red eTAP AXS 2 x 12Chainring 46/33TStem S-Works Future Stem 100 mmHandlebar S-Works Carbon Hover 420 mmWheelset Roval Terra CLX II 12 x 100/12 x 142 mm Through AxleTires S-Works Mondo 2BR 700 x 32c 32Cranks SRAM Force AXS Powermeter 46/33 172.5 mmCassette SRAM XG 1290 10-33TTechnical DataSize 44 49 52 54 56 58 61Specific Features – Future Shock 3.3 damping system in the steerer tube– incredibly versatile– compliant Pavé seat post offers added comfort– massive tire clearances How does the Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL8 perform on the test track? The riding position aboard the Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL8 is relatively neutral and balanced yet still sporty. The tall front end, which is mainly due to the riser handlebar, makes it feel a little more upright and confidence inspiring. Overall, this results in a very organic riding experience between the rider and bike. Thanks to the intuitive handling, you can quickly feel at one with the bike, without needing too much time to get used to it. The balanced handling also ensures that both fast and slow corners can be navigated without much effort. The Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL8 remains stable and composed at all times. It’s loads of fun to rail around the corners. The compliance, as expected, is very high. The Future Shock does an outstanding job. Turning the dial on the stem to adjust the damping makes a noticeable difference to the feel of the shock. It adds a big plus in comfort, especially compared to the Canyon Endurace. The Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL8 is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to acceleration, too! Unlike the FOCUS, and similar to the Canyon Endurace, it seems to cry out to you to get on the pedals and give it your all. It’s extremely light-footed for such a comfortable bike. Whether on a sprint or a climb, the bike just surges ahead. However, the Future Shock cannot be completely locked out and still has some give in the stiffest setting. Speaking of which, the spring rate adjustability of the latest Future Shock model allows you to fine tune the system to suit your own preferences. However, it can’t be completely locked out. The Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL8 also scores in terms of practicality, capable of accommodating three bottle cages, offering additional bosses on the top tube, and even boasting mudguard mounting points, all of which can be very helpful, whether on a long tour or in everyday life. In addition to the generous 40 mm tire clearance, you’ve also got the option of equipping the bike with a mechanical drivetrain. The remaining components, from the tires to the frame, play very well together. Overall, it feels like a very high-quality and special bike. The only minus point is the difficult-to-reach seat post clamp that tends to jam and is difficult to adjust. Furthermore, the integration of the seat post with its rubber boot isn’t as seamless as we’d like, and it doesn’t convey the same premium feel as the rest of the bike. This bike rides like a magic carpet, even on the worst roads. Helmet Specialized S-Works Prevail 3 | Glasses SCOTT SHILD | Jacket CAFÉ DU CYCLISTE Laureline | Jersey POC W’S ULTRA TEE | Bib Pas Normal Mechanism | Shoes SUPLEST ROAD PRO | Socks Specialized Soft Air Road Mid Sock Who is the Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL8 for? Looking for an all-rounder? The Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL8 is an ideal match for those who enjoy varying terrain and long tours. From rough gravel to smooth asphalt, the bike caters to all use cases, and it suits those who want a do-it-all bike in a road bike guise. A second wheelset with gravel tires can turn the Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL8 into a light and fast gravel bike in no time! Commuters will also get their money’s worth thanks to the high level of comfort and mudguard mounting points. Tuning tip: A second wheelset with gravel tires for the ultimate do-it-all bike Riding Characteristics 4AgilitycumbersomeplayfulStabilitynervousconfidentHandlingdemandingbalancedFun factorboringlivelyComfortfirmcomfortableValue for moneyterriblevery goodTechnical DataSpecializedS-Works Roubaix SL8Size: 44 49 52 54 56 58 61Weight: 7.36Price: € 14,000Indended UseSmooth tarmac 1Allroad/Gravel 2Everyday/Commuting 3 Our conclusion on the Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL8 The Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL8 is a versatile all-rounder, blurring the boundary between all-road and gravel. Its do-it-all character is further underlined by its practical features, and its intuitive handling, coupled with a high level of comfort, opens up a lot of possibilities when planning a route, and makes it a ton of fun to ride. In addition, the all-road bike is incredibly light considering the built-in suspension. All in all, it’s a very coherent overall concept! Topsoutstanding complianceintuitive handlingcoherent overall conceptFlopsseat post clamp leaves room for improvement For more information, visit specialized.com No, it’s not about perfect race tracks, it’s about efficiency. Fast, fleet-footed and efficient – those who want to speed along high-speed passages need a defined and spritely bike that accelerates with ease and efficiency. Nevertheless, reliable components are important too. We interpret “Smooth tarmac” bikes as follows: Hard efforts at high speeds with a maximum efficient bike on a consistently well-paved road. Effort-joy ratio: 80:30 (not everything has to be 100%!)↩… also known as bike riding. Broken-up roads in the hinterland, deadlocked gravel roads, loose surfaces – sometimes muddy, sometimes bone-dry. For this, it takes bikes with super all-round, handling and wearing qualities uphill and downhill. Effort-joy ratio: 50:50↩If you want to use your bike almost every day, you usually do not need an extremely tuned racing machine. Solid components, which are able to cope with the rigours of continuous usage in any kind of weather, are part of the basic equipment. At the same time, the bike should have practicable details: integrated fenders/assembly options, luggage racks/attachment points and a light system or at least the option of installing bike lights. The position on the bike should be rather relaxed, the overall comfort high, so that the Afterwork Ride becomes a cure and not a curse. Effort-joy ratio: 30:70↩You can find more info about our rating system in this article: Click here! ↩Der Beitrag Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL8 – A gravel wolf in all-road clothing? erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.

The Belgian has taken to using them himself – at least for now