Seems we just barely posted our spy shots then Specialized goes and makes things official.
The 2012 Shiv is indeed a purebred triathlon-only race bike, as evidenced by Specialized’s loosely veiled bashing of the UCI’s technology stifling policies:
“Without the constraints placed on bike design by the UCI, there are no limits. We put together the best engineering and triathlon minds in the business to create this purpose-built, no-hold-barred tri machine. By combining unparalleled aerodynamics, an integrated hydration system, and geometries that were developed through our BG FIT R&D team, there is no other bike on the market – or the roads of Kona – that offers triathletes the benefits of the Shiv ‘Fuelselage.'”
S-Works models are due to arrive in November, followed by Pro-level and other models through December and into the new year. Want more? Jump on over to our (brand new!!!) sister site, TriathlonRumor.com for the full scoop! (or if you just like skimming the surface, there are a few more pics after the break…
The top end S-Works Shiv bikes are made with their top-end FACT IS 11R carbon fiber, the others are made with the only slightly less high-end 10R carbon. The S-Works frameset module includes the post, brakes, crankset and carbon aerobars. The Pro level frameset module only includes the seatpost.
