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Today’s Deals2018 Specialized
CruX E5
An aluminum frame cyclocross bike with mid-range components and tektro mechanical disc brakes.
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Manufacturer Price
$1,400| Frame | Aluminum |
|---|---|
| Fork | Carbon |
| Wheels | 700c Aluminum |
| Drivetrain | 2 × 10 |
| Groupset | Tiagra |
| Brakes | Tektro Mechanical Disc |
Summary
The Specialized CruX is a versatile cyclocross bike praised for its race-ready geometry and handling, with models ranging from budget-friendly to high-end carbon builds. It excels in sharp steering and stability across varied terrain, though some versions may lack in weight or component spec compared to rivals. The bike's ability to double as a commuter or race machine is frequently highlighted, alongside its comfortable ride quality and efficient power transfer.
Race-ready geometry
Sharp, crisp steering
Versatile for cyclocross and commuting
Comfortable ride quality
Efficient power transfer
Some models are heavier
Component spec may not match rivals
Tubeless setup issues on certain wheelsets
Feedback?
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Oct 2019
Don't write off the aluminum frame: This could be your next race bike.
Aluminum frame
Carbon fork
Race-ready geometry
Some riders may prefer thru-axles
Tires are good for cinder paths but lack adequate tread for cyclocross
Dec 2018 · Robin Wilmott
The E5 Sport promises years of solid off-road performance. Buy if you want a decent first ’cross bike that you can upgrade in the future
Carbon fork, drivetrain spec, handling
The wheelset isn’t very lively
Nov 2018 · David Arthur @davearthur
Fantastic handling and performance and stunning paint job, but let down by weight and spec
Jan 2018 · Tyler Benedict
The 2018 Specialized CruX cyclocross bike launched this summer with an all-new, race-focused frameset and a range of complete bike builds to suit most any budget. We got our hands on the CruX Expert X1 just in time for the NCCX series and threw it into the mix of test bikes. Actually, this was the …
Dec 2017 · Marc Abbott
Specialized's perennial cyclocross performer has been updated and it's more versatile than ever
Oct 2017 · Kristen Legan
The Specialized Crux Expert X1 is one of the best cyclocross bikes this season.
Nov 2016 · Paul Norman
The CruX Expert X1 is towards the top end of Specialized's cyclocross bike line-up. We've put it through its paces.
Well-balanced handling
Modern cyclocross spec
Single ring groupset has excellent chain retention
Expensive
Limited options to extend the gear range
May 2015
Before the ride For this review, I enjoyed a full custom build courtesy of Campagnolo. Starting with a 2013 Crux Pro carbon frameset, an 11-speed Chorus groupset with Campy’s CX cantilever brakes and CX Power Torque carbon cranks were added with Bora Ultra 35 carbon tubulars. The remainder of the parts were supplied
| Frame | Specialized E5 Premium Aluminum, fully manipulated tubing, semi-compact race design, shaped top tube, 1-3/8" lower bearing, internal cable routing, integrated headset, OSBB, post mount disc, 135mm rear spacing BB Standard: BB30, Press Fit |
|---|---|
| Fork | Specialized FACT carbon, disc-specific, quick-release |
| Bottom Bracket | BB30, press-fit |
| Stem | Specialized, 3D forged alloy, 4-bolt, 7-degree rise |
| Handlebar | Specialized Shallow Drop, 6061, 70x125mm, 31.8mm clamp |
| Saddle | Body Geometry Toupé Sport, steel rails, 143mm |
| Seatpost | Alloy, 2-bolt clamp Type: Rigid |
| Pedals | Nylon, 105x78x28mm, loose balls w/ reflectors |
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Tiagra, long cage, 10-speed |
|---|---|
| Front Derailleur | Shimano Tiagra, braze-on |
| Crank | Praxis Alba 2D, BB30, 46/36T |
| Shifters | Shimano Tiagra |
| Cassette | Shimano Tiagra, 10-speed, 11-32t |
| Chain | KMC X10, 10-speed w/ Missing Link™ |
| Brakes | Front: Tektro Spyre, post mount, mechanical disc, Rear: Tektro Spyre, post mount, mechanical disc Type: Tektro Mechanical Disc |
| Rims | Front: Axis Sport Disc, quick-release, Rear: Axis Sport Disc, quick-release |
|---|---|
| Tires | Front: Tracer Sport, 60 TPI, wire bead, 700x33mm, Rear: Tracer Sport, 60 TPI, wire bead, 700x33mm |
First added 6 November
Last updated 6 November
Not listed for 2,401 days