Specialized Crux ro £7,250 7.4kg

A super lightweight gravel weapon with a heavyweight price tag

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You could make a case for the Specialized Crux Pro being a potential game changer when it comes to the debate regarding n+1 bikes.

With a racing influenced fit, born from the Crux's cyclo-cross background, it challenges the need for separate bikes for gravel, road and cross. Thanks to its lightweight, performance-driven design and ample tyre clearance it seems equipped for a variety of purposes.

Could it indeed dance over the rough terrain like it's freshly laid tarmac while still being capable of climbing a mountain as if it were a road bike? I aimed to find out.

Construction 

The Crux models are among the lightest gravel bikes in the world, taking their cue from the featherweight Aethos. The Pro uses a blend of Specialized's higher grade FACT carbon12r on the forks and 10r for the frame.

As for those forks, visually they look rather thin for a gravel bike. Measuring just 3cm wide at the halfway point, I was concerned that they may feel a little fragile over some of the rougher terrain I was planning on riding. Comparing the geometry of the Crux Pro to Specialized's Diverge Pro Carbon, which is an out-and-out gravel bike, makes for interesting reading. In house the Crux is referred to as a 'leave everything at home bike' while the Diverge is the 'take it with you' bike.

Certainly the Crux appears designed with a racer in mind. In a size 56 the stack height is 578mm for the Crux, while the Diverge measures 610mm. The reach is 397mm compared to 392mm, while the Crux's 582mm top tube is 10mm longer. In theory this means that with its lower height and longer reach, it will deliver a more aggressive, aero position on the bike.

Another key point to note is bottom bracket height. The Crux is considerably higher at 286mm compared to 270mm for the Diverge. This extra clearance should help prevent pedal strikes.