As cyclists, we’re easily fixated by promises of lighter weight components, but with mandated weight limits from on high, manufacturers have been forced to play with other means of making us faster and improving our ride.
For Specialized, that meant designing a radically new cockpit, massaging every tube shape, and powerful new integrated brakes on their new Venge to save a claimed 120 seconds over 40 kilometers…
From the front, the new Venge is narrow. The profile was designed to be as slim as possible to reduce drag, without sacrificing stiffness. In the process, the lateral rigidity of the fork was magically increased by 30% for better steering response.
The entire cockpit utilizes proprietary components to maximize speed, yet still be adjustable.
The stem has a -17 degree rise for “optimal aerodynamic profile,” which requires bars with up to a 25mm rise to keep the stack height normal. By utilizing a two piece system (stem and bar), fit can be tuned. Several different stem lengths will be available, as well as two different bars.
Proprietary headset spacers can also be used to tune the fit.
When you order a Venge ViAS, you can either use your existing fit measurements, or use an online tool Specialized developed with Retül to replicate the fit of your current bike.
This will ensure your Venge will arrive at the dealer with the correct stem, bar, setback post, etc…
All of the cockpit components were designed with the intention of running all the cables internally.
Having moved their focus away from creating the lightest possible components, Specialized Engineers focused on best-in-class stopping power and modulation. Their proprietary integrated front brakes complete the forks trailing edge and are claimed to be the perfect blend of aerodynamics and power.
Rather than being tucked under the BB, the rear brake has been moved to behind the seat tube. There is least wheel deflection here during out of the saddle exertions, so this position reduced brake rub. This also allows the rear brake to draft behind the water bottle.
At Tour de Suisse, Tinkoff Saxo Team Captain, Peter Sagan, rode a prototype of the Venge VIAS for a stage win.
He will be riding the new Venge at the Tour de France, while the rest of his teammates will be equipped later this season.
In addition to a new frame, the complete S-Works build will feature brand new Roval CLX 64 wheels. These carbon clinchers are paired with the Specialized Turbo Cotton Tire, which they’ve tested to have the lowest rolling resistance in the peloton.
The wheels have been optimized for both head and crosswinds, come tubeless ready, and have a 21mm internal rim width.
The Venge ViAS will be available in limited quantities beginning August 2015, and MSRP for the Di2 equipped model is set at $12,500.
For more on the bike, visit Specialized.com
