Specialized Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x Review
- Price: $6800
- Frame: Aluminum
- Tires: S-Works Turbo
- Gear: 1×12 Electronic
What We Like About It: The Smartweld innovation achieves aerodynamics, power transfer, and handling on the Allez Sprint, combining complex alloy head tubes and other components to make it the first alloy super-bike.
What we don’t like about it: It doesn’t excel in uphill performance.
Rating: (4.8/5)
The Specialized Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x is the fastest alloy road bike in history. It utilizes new technology to deliver unmatched efficiency and stability, making it a breath-taking contender in racing.
Below, we’ll delve into the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Specialized Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x. In the latter part of this article, we’ll also compare it to several top bike models. If you’re interested in more bike reviews, feel free to follow us.
Riding Experience
Race Riding
I bought a plane ticket, booked a hotel on IHG, and headed to Chicago. In a less crowded area away from the city center, I found a road with minimal traffic for my test.
Even though it was just a solo race, the atmosphere at the starting line was filled with tension and excitement. I mounted my Specialized Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x, ready to take on an intense and challenging cycling race.
Following the race rules, at the signal, I pushed down on the pedals, unleashing all my strength. The rigidity of the Specialized E5 Premium Aluminum Disc frame used in the Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x translates every pedal stroke into incredibly high speeds. I felt the wind rush past my ears, as if I had become one with the speed, entering the first flat section of the race.
I sped down the road like lightning, my body close to the frame. The lightweight design of the Specialized Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x allowed me to accelerate rapidly, with each pedal stroke bringing an exhilarating burst of power and sprinting joy. I continuously simulated the feeling of overtaking, following the real race process, and completing each step.
Is that all?
As the race continued, the road conditions started to twist and undulate. I encountered a steep hill and challenging curves. The rigidity and handling of the Specialized Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x provided strong support for my climbing and descending efforts. I adjusted my riding position, adapting flexibly to the changing road conditions, and continuously shifting the SRAM Force eTap AXS rear derailleur. Each climb tested my stamina and perseverance, but I managed to endure.
Ahead were a series of bends, and I kept adjusting my balance while steadily accelerating. I had no fear of those bends. I controlled the S-Works Aerofly II, and the S-Works Turbo provided excellent cornering traction. Unsurprisingly, I completed every turn with excellence, and the feeling of flying was simply fantastic.
The finish line was getting closer, and my body was fatigued, but I was filled with satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment. This is the excitement and thrill that the Specialized Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x brought to me.
Specifications
The Specialized Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x is an outstanding racing bike. It’s equipped with a Specialized E5 Premium Aluminum Disc frame, which is robust and lightweight, providing the efficiency and stability of aluminum alloy. The SRAM Force eTap AXS rear derailleur is extremely precise, and electronic shifting remains accurate without chain stretch issues.
Additionally, the Specialized Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x is quick, lightweight, and responsive, offering low rolling resistance and excellent cornering traction. It performs superbly in all weather and road conditions. The bike’s Body Geometry Power Pro saddle features a firm FACT carbon fiber shell and hollow titanium alloy rails, offering outstanding performance and all-day comfort suitable for various riders.
Video
Other Versions
After numerous tests, our understanding of this bike has deepened, and it stands out as an excellent racing bike.
However, many riders have their performance requirements or preferences for components, so we conducted further research on similar bikes.
2023 Specialized Allez Sprint Comp
The Specialized Allez Sprint Comp features aluminum wheels, while the Specialized Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x comes with carbon wheels. Carbon wheels are more expensive, lighter in weight, and can withstand greater spoke tension. Aluminum wheels are more affordable, offer excellent impact resistance, and can still be used after minor damage, which is easy to repair. In contrast, carbon wheels cannot be repaired once damaged.
However, aluminum wheels are heavier, have lower maximum impact strength, and lower strength at the welds. Additionally, the Specialized Allez Sprint Comp features a 2×11 Drivetrain, while the Specialized Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x is equipped with a 1×12 Electronic Drivetrain. Mechanical shifting can handle harsher conditions, while electronic shifting is highly precise, requires minimal maintenance, and only needs regular charging.
What do we like about it?
- The Smartweld innovation achieves aerodynamics, power transfer, and handling on the Allez Sprint, combining complex alloy head tubes and other components to make it the first alloy super-bike.
- The integrated bottom bracket and downtube enhance the bike’s stability, ensuring a smooth ride at high speeds.
- The elegant and comfortable geometry formed by the dropped rear fork, Tarmac SL7’s carbon seatpost, and front fork make riding easier.
- Outstanding downhill performance.
What don’t we like about it?
- Insufficient uphill performance.
FAQ
- Is this bike suitable for beginners?
It’s suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
- Where is this bike produced?
Its components are all made with Tange steel from Japan and assembled in Taiwan, China.
- Why is this bike so popular?
It offers excellent handling and sufficient stiffness, making it the fastest alloy road bike in history.
- How do I choose the right size?
The size chart is below:
These sizes are just general guidelines, and the best way to find your size is to try it out for yourself.
| Rider height | SIZE |
| 5’1″ – 5’5″ | 49cm |
| 5’1″ – 5’5″ | 52cm |
| 5’1″ – 5’5″ | 54cm |
| 5’1″ – 5’5″ | 56cm |
| 5’1″ – 5’5″ | 58cm |
| 5’1″ – 5’5″ | 61cm |
Specs
Build
| Frame | Specialized E5 Premium Aluminum Disc frame with D’Aluisio Smartweld Technology, hydroformed aluminum tubing, tapered head tube, fully internally routed cables, threaded BB BB Standard: BSA, 68mm, Threaded Color: Gloss Purple Tint over Chameleon / Satin Chameleon |
| Fork | FACT Carbon, 12x100mm thru-axle, flat-mount disc |
| Bottom Bracket | SRAM DUB BSA 68 |
| Stem | Specialized Pro SL, alloy, 4-bolt |
| Handlebar | S-Works Aerofly II |
| Saddle | Body Geometry Power Pro, hollow titanium rails |
| Seatpost | 2021 S-Works Tarmac Carbon seat post, FACT Carbon, Di2 Compatible, 20mm offset |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | SRAM Force eTap AXS, 12-speed |
| Crank | SRAM Force 1 AXS Power Meter, 46T |
| Power Meter | SRAM Force 1 AXS Power Meter, 46T |
| Shifters | SRAM Force eTap AXS |
| Cassette | SRAM Force, XG-1270 D1, 12-speed, 10-36t |
| Chain | SRAM CN Force 12-speed |
| Brakes | SRAM Force, Hydraulic Disc |
Wheels
| Rims | Front: Roval Rapide CL, 21mm internal width carbon rim, Win Tunnel Engineered, DT for Roval 350 hub, DT Swiss Revolution spokes, Rear: Roval Rapide CL, 21mm internal width carbon rim, Win Tunnel Engineered, DT for Roval 350 hub, DT Swiss Revolution spokes 21mm internal width carbon rim, Win Tunnel Engineered, DT for Roval 350 hub, DT Swiss Revolution spokes |
| Tires | Front: S-Works Turbo, 120 TPI, folding bead, BlackBelt protection, 700x26mm, Rear: S-Works Turbo, 120 TPI, folding bead, BlackBelt protection, 700x26mm |
Comparison Table
| Bikes | Click view | Tires | Drivetrain | Frame Material | Groupset |
| Trek Emonda SL 7 Disc AXS | Click View | Bontrager R2 Hard-Case Lite 700×25c | 2×12Electronic | Carbon | SRAM Force eTap |
| Giant TCR Advanced Pro Disc 0 Ultegra Di2 | Click View | CADEX Race 700x25c | 2×12Electronic | Carbon | Shimano Ultegra Di2 |
| Scott Addict RC 10 | Click View | Schwalbe ONE Race-Guard Fold 700x28C | 2×12Electronic | Carbon | SRAM Force eTap |
| BMC Teammachine SLR01 FIVE | Click View | Vittoria Corsa – 25mm | 2×12Electronic | Carbon | Shimano Ultegra Di2 |
Specialized Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x vs. Trek Emonda SL 7 Disc AXS
The Specialized Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x features a Specialized E5 Premium Aluminum Disc frame, while the Trek Émonda SL 7 Disc AXS is equipped with an Ultralight 500 Series OCLV Carbon frame. Carbon fiber offers high strength, stiffness, low density, and excellent corrosion resistance, but it can be prone to breakage when subjected to side impacts. Aluminum frames have higher tensile strength, and greater fatigue strength, and can be recycled, making them easy to repair if damaged. However, aluminum frames have lower strength at welding points and can be susceptible to breakage.
Although the Trek Émonda SL 7 Disc AXS has 25mm-wide tires, which are narrower than the 26mm tires on the Specialized Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x, it has 28c tire clearance, allowing for wider tire customization. Wider tires provide a smoother ride and offer strong support on softer road surfaces. On the other hand, narrower tires are highly maneuverable and offer excellent handling capabilities.
Learn More: Is Trek Emonda SL 7 A Perfect Selection? – [Trek Emonda SL 7 Review]
Specialized Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x vs. Giant TCR Advanced Pro Disc 0 Ultegra Di2
The Specialized Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x features the Force eTap components, while the Giant TCR Advanced Pro Disc 0, Ultegra Di2 is equipped with Ultegra Di2. Force eTap uses a single paddle on each control lever for shifting, and the rear derailleur has a removable rechargeable battery for convenience. Additionally, the button cell batteries on the shifters can be replaced, and battery monitoring and bike adjustments can be done through a smartphone app (available for Android or iOS).
On the other hand, Ultegra Di2 is a wired system with a 2x front derailleur design, which can potentially lead to chain drop during shifts. It employs two buttons on each control lever for shifting, and its electronic shifting is powered by a single large rechargeable battery hidden inside the seatpost. Customization and troubleshooting for Ultegra Di2 can be done through a limited PC connection (not available for iOS) or via a tablet/phone app using a Bluetooth connection (requires an additional wireless adapter), which can be cumbersome and less convenient.
Learn More: Is Giant TCR Advanced Worth Buying？-Giant TCR Advanced Review
Specialized Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x vs. Scott Addict RC 10
The Scott Addict RC 10 boasts a faster speed of 67 km/h and features a less aggressive geometry. The stack/reach ratio is 1.41, making it more relaxed, and allowing riders to maintain an upright position. It also offers better flexibility for a more comfortable ride. In contrast, the Specialized Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x has a more aggressive stack/reach ratio (1.4), providing more power when pedaling.
The head tube angle of the Specialized Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x is 73.5°, which is greater than the Scott Addict RC 10’s 72.5°. A steeper head tube angles the fork downward towards the front of the bike, bringing the front wheel closer to the rider. This results in quicker and more responsive steering but can make the bike less stable at high speeds and twitchy on rough terrain.
Learn More: Is Scott Addict RC 20 Worth Buying? – [Scott Addict RC 20 Review]
Specialized Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x vs. BMC Teammachine SLR01 FIVE
The Specialized Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x comes equipped with the Force AXS Power Meter. With precise recording every second, the power meter can reveal a rider’s strengths and weaknesses during cycling by displaying data. During training, it enables riders to engage in more targeted training sessions. In races, it helps riders pace themselves better using existing data and allocate their energy more effectively.
Additionally, the Specialized Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x has a 72mm BB drop, which lowers the rider’s center of gravity and enhances stability, allowing better bike control. However, the larger BB drop also means a lower pedal height, which can pose challenges when cornering and navigating obstacles on the road.
Learn Morre: Is BMC Teammachine SLR ONE Worth Buying? [2022 BMC Teammachine SLR ONE Review]
Summary
This is our review of the Specialized Allez Sprint LTD – SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x. This exceptional racing bike can assist riders in achieving excellent results in competitions. Taking all factors into account, we have awarded it a high rating of 4.8. If you’re interested in obtaining more information about bicycles, feel free to explore our related reviews.
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