Specialized Aethos Expert Review]
- Price: $6500
- Frame: Carbon
- Tires: S-Works Turbo
- Gear: 2×12 Electronic
What we like about it: The design of the Aethos frame is incredibly lightweight, leading to faster speeds. Furthermore, it delivers remarkable performance in corners and tight turns.
What we don’t like about it: The 28mm-wide tires may be considered relatively thin by some, which could raise concerns about their durability.
Rating: (4.8/5)
The Specialized Aethos Expert represents the pursuit of perfection by Specialized, with its impressively lightweight and impeccable ride quality. Its lightweight frame exhilarates riders on every ride, and this elevated riding experience is infectious to all who ride it.
Now, let’s delve into the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Specialized Aethos Expert. In the latter part of this article, we’ll also compare it to several top bicycle models. If you’re looking for more bike reviews, feel free to follow us.
Riding Experience
I booked my flight and made a hotel reservation through IHG, arriving on the outskirts of New York. I had chosen a remarkably long route for this ride.
As the warm sunlight bathed the starting road, I couldn’t wait to hop on my endurance bike, ready to embrace a day filled with challenges and adventures. With a gentle press of the pedals, I immediately felt the lightness and stability of the Diverge FACT 11r carbon frame. Each pedal stroke conveyed power and momentum, propelling me forward. The wind whispered in my ears, accompanying the friction between the tires and the road, as I continued to move ahead.
As the terrain changed, I found myself on a rugged mountain road. Every climb made my muscles work and challenge themselves, but I was filled with determination and perseverance. The comfort of the Specialized Aethos Expert made every pedal stroke silky smooth. I immersed myself in the rhythm of the ride, feeling the seamless synergy between my body and the bike.
Gradually, I arrived at a vast countryside landscape. I felt the stability and agility of the Specialized Aethos Expert. On the country roads, every turn was natural and smooth, like flowing water. I accelerated, racing through the wind – it was an incredible feeling.
Is that all?
I stopped the bike, picked up the water bottle secured in its holder, hydrated, and continued forward. Seated on the Body Geometry Power Expert saddle, my fatigue was further reduced. I accelerated once more, feeling like I was flying downhill. The bike’s vibrations at high speed didn’t make me feel uneasy; instead, it was exhilarating.
Then, I continuously adjusted the bike’s direction according to the road. With each acceleration and deceleration, my control over the bike became more effortless. While this might be attributed to my extensive riding experience, I could also see that this bike is well-suited for beginners.
At the finish line, I used the SRAM Rival eTAP AXS hydraulic disc brakes to bring the bike to a stop, filled with immense satisfaction. That’s the joy the Specialized Aethos Expert brought me.
Specifications
The Specialized Aethos Expert is an outstanding endurance bicycle. It features an Aethos FACT 10R Carbon frame and FACT Carbon fork, offering responsive handling. It is available in two colors: Satin Metallic Deep Lake / Deep Lake and Gloss Dune White / Metallic Obsidian, both of which are elegantly understated.
Additionally, this bike boasts a 2×12 Electronic drivetrain composed of an SRAM Rival eTap AXS front derailleur and SRAM Rival eTap AXS rear derailleur, delivering exceptional shifting performance. The S-Works Turbo tires are speedy, lightweight, and supple, with low rolling resistance and outstanding cornering traction.
Video
Other Versions
After undergoing numerous tests, we have gained a deeper understanding of this exceptional endurance bike.
However, many riders have their own performance requirements and preferences for components. Therefore, we have conducted further investigations by comparing it to similar bikes.
2023 Specialized S-Works Aethos-Founder’s Edition
The Specialized S-Works Aethos-Founder’s Edition is equipped with a Red AXS Power Meter, quantifying pedal cadence data to enhance rider training efficiency. It allows for more scientifically structured training based on various power zones, though the addition of a power meter may incur extra costs.
Furthermore, the Specialized S-Works Aethos-Founder’s Edition features RED eTap components, whereas the Specialized Aethos Expert comes with Rival eTap components. Rival eTap is an excellent entry-level electronic road bike kit and has narrower handlebars compared to RED eTap. RED eTap is an ideal choice for racers and road enthusiasts, boasting an incredibly lightweight design and utilizing high-quality carbon for some components.
Therefore, if you seek a superior bike, I would recommend the Specialized S-Works Aethos-Founder’s Edition. If your budget is more constrained, the Specialized Aethos Expert will be an excellent choice.
What do we like about it?
- The lightweight design of the Aethos frame provides a comfortable riding experience.
- The Aethos achieves a perfect balance of front and rear stiffness, delivering exceptional ride quality with just a few pedal strokes.
- Roval’s Alpinist carbon seatpost reduces weight, increases durability, and enhances rider comfort.
- Both color options are elegantly understated, appealing to the aesthetics of most riders.
What don’t we like about it?
- With the 2×12 Electronic Drivetrain, there is a possibility of chain drops during shifting, which can be somewhat troublesome during rides.
FAQ
- Is this bike suitable for beginners?
It is suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
- How are the bike deliveries made?
The bike offers a home delivery service, or riders can choose to pick it up in-store.
- Is this bike suitable for climbing mountains?
It is only suitable for climbing on paved roads.
- How do I choose the right size?
The size chart is below:
These sizes are general guidelines, and the most effective way to find your size is to try it out.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5’1″ – 5’5″ | 49cm |
| 5’3″ – 5’7″ | 52cm |
| 5’5″ – 5’9″ | 54cm |
| 5’7″ – 6’0″ | 56cm |
| 5’10” – 6’2″ | 58cm |
| 6’0″ – 6’4″ | 61cm |
Specs
Build
| Frame | Aethos FACT 10R Carbon, Rider First Engineered™, Threaded BB, 12x142mm thru-axle, flat-mount discBB Standard: BSA, 68mm, ThreadedColors: Satin Metallic Deep Lake / Deep Lake; Gloss Dune White / Metallic Obsidian |
| Fork | FACT Carbon, 12x100mm thru-axle, flat-mount disc |
| Bottom Bracket | SRAM DUB BSA 68 |
| Stem | Specialized Pro SL, alloy, 4-bolt |
| Handlebar | Specialized Expert Shallow Drop, alloy, 125mm drop x 75mm reach |
| Saddle | Body Geometry Power Expert |
| Seatpost | Roval Alpinist Carbon Seatpost |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | SRAM Rival eTap AXS, 12-speed |
| Front Derailleur | SRAM Rival eTAP AXS, braze-on |
| Crank | SRAM Rival, 48/35T |
| Shifters | SRAM Rival eTap AXS |
| Cassette | SRAM Rival, 12-speed, 10-36t |
| Chain | SRAM Rival 12-speed |
| Brakes | SRAM Rival eTAP AXS, hydraulic disc |
Wheels
| Rims | Front: Roval C38, 21mm internal width carbon rim, Rear: Roval C38, 21mm internal width carbon rim |
| Tires | Front: S-Works Turbo, 120 TPI, folding bead, BlackBelt protection, 700x28mm, Rear: S-Works Turbo, 120 TPI, folding bead, BlackBelt protection, 700x28mm |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click view | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame Material | Groupset |
| BMC Roadmachine TWO | Click View | VITTORIA RUBINO – 28mm | 2×12Electronic | Carbon | SRAM Force eTap |
| Scott Contessa Addict SE | Click View | Schwalbe ONE Fold 700x32C | 2×12Electronic | Carbon | Shimano Ultegra Di2,Praxis |
| Trek Domane SL 7 AXS Gen 4 | Click View | Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite | 2×12Electronic | Carbon | SRAM Force eTap |
| Canyon Endurace CF SLX Disc 9.0 Di2 | Click View | Schwalbe Pro One Evo 30mm | 2×11Electronic | Carbon | Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 |
Specialized Aethos Expert vs. BMC Roadmachine TWO
The Specialized Aethos Expert features carbon wheels, while the BMC Roadmachine TWO comes with aluminum wheels. Carbon wheels are exceptionally lightweight, but they can be prone to breaking when subjected to side impacts. Additionally, the Specialized Aethos Expert has 28mm wide tires. In contrast, the BMC Roadmachine TWO also has 28mm tires, but it has 33c tire clearance, allowing for the installation of 33c tires, and making it adaptable to a wider range of road conditions.
Furthermore, the Specialized Aethos Expert can reach speeds of up to 41mph, slightly faster than the BMC Roadmachine TWO’s 40mph. So, if you’re looking for faster riding and lighter carbon wheels, I would recommend the Specialized Aethos Expert. If you want to accommodate wider tires, the BMC Roadmachine TWO would be your preferred choice.
Learn More: Is BMC Roadmachine X Two Worth Buying? [BMC Roadmachine X Two Review]
Specialized Aethos Expert vs. Scott Contessa Addict SE
The Scott Contessa Addict SE can reach speeds of up to 39mph, while the Specialized Aethos Expert boasts an even faster speed of 41mph. However, they both have a stack/reach ratio of 1.43. Nevertheless, the Specialized Aethos Expert has a larger head tube angle at 73.5° compared to the Scott Contessa Addict SE’s 72°. A larger 73.5° head tube angle contributes to a more agile riding experience.
Additionally, the Scott Contessa Addict SE has a trail of 63mm, whereas the Specialized Aethos Expert has a trail of 55mm. A larger trail provides higher speed stability and a tendency for self-correction in steering. On the other hand, a lower trail offers quicker and more agile steering, along with an improved ability to maintain the desired line through sharp corners.
In summary, if you prefer a larger trail, the Scott Contessa Addict SE would be a suitable choice. If you value more agile handling, the Specialized Aethos Expert is an excellent option for you.
Learn More: Is Scott Contessa Addict RC 15 Worth Buying? – [Scott Contessa Addict RC 15 Review]
Specialized Aethos Expert vs. Trek Domane SL 7 AXS Gen 4
The Trek Domane SL 7 AXS Gen 4 features a very wide 38c tire clearance, allowing for the installation of wider tires. Additionally, it has a stack/reach ratio of 1.57, which is larger than the Specialized Aethos Expert’s 1.43, providing a more comfortable riding experience. However, the Trek Domane SL 7 AXS Gen 4 has a head tube angle of 73.5°, which is greater than the Trek Domane SL 7 AXS Gen 4’s 71.9°, making it highly agile in steering.
Furthermore, the Specialized Aethos Expert has a 72mm BB drop, while the Trek Domane SL 7 AXS Gen 4’s BB drop is 78mm. A larger BB drop can lower the rider’s center of gravity, enhancing stability. However, it can also result in lower pedal positions, potentially causing issues when riding on roads with more gravel and debris.
So, if you’re looking for a comfortable ride, the Specialized Aethos Expert is well-suited to your needs. If you often ride on roads with more obstacles, I would recommend purchasing the Trek Domane SL 7 AXS Gen 4.
Learn More: Is Trek Domane SL 7 Gen 4 A Perfect Selection – [Trek Domane SL 7 Gen 4 Review]
Specialized Aethos Expert vs. Canyon Endurace CF SLX Disc 9.0 Di2
The Specialized Aethos Expert features a 2×12 Electronic drivetrain, whereas the Canyon Endurace CF SLX Disc 9.0 Di2 has a 2×11 Electronic Drivetrain. The 2×12 Electronic drivetrain offers a larger gear range and smoother shifting.
Additionally, the Specialized Aethos Expert, which uses SRAM Rival eTap AXS, is slightly heavier than the Canyon Endurace CF SLX Disc 9.0 Di2, which uses Dura-Ace Di2. The Dura-Ace Di2 has larger batteries and chainrings, but its semi-wireless design involves some internal wiring. In contrast, SRAM Rival eTap AXS features a fully wireless design.
In summary, if you prefer a smoother-shifting 2×12 Electronic drivetrain, I would recommend the Specialized Aethos Expert. If you prioritize a lighter drivetrain, the Canyon Endurace CF SLX Disc 9.0 Di2 might be the better choice for you.
Learn More: Is Canyon Endurance 8 Disc Worth Buying? [Canyon Endurance 8 Disc Review]
Summary
The above is our review of the Specialized Aethos Expert. It is an excellent endurance bike that provides a comfortable riding experience. Taking everything into account, we have awarded it a high score of 4.8. If you want more information about bicycles, feel free to check out our other reviews.
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