2015
S- Work s 201 5 / WHATEV ER I T TAKES
I N TRO
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LEADERSHIP
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BALANCE
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S ACRIF ICE
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SU F FERING
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I nspiration
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ROAD CO L LECT IO N
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TRI C O L LECT IO N
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XC CO L LECT IO N
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TRA IL CO L LECT IO N
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G RAVI T Y CO L LECT IO N
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Subject to technical changes.
Aa r o n Gwin k nows what it tak es to be a c ham p io n .
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W hateve r
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it T a k es We hear it often enough but what does it really mean? Is it staying late at the office working on CAD renderings until the cleaning crew kicks you out? Maybe it’s going cross-eyed trying to stay on the wheel of the Omega Pharma – Quick Step team to ask for feedback about their new bikes? It could also be standing in the pouring rain at a race with spare wheels, wet socks, and an empty coffee thermos. No matter how it’s defined, it’s what fuels S-Works. It’s the motivation that drives us to push the limits of performance at the highest level. Yeah sure, sometimes we might “forget to bathe” or “accidentally” skip dinner because we’re too focused on our work. But hey, that’s what Free Bagel Friday and office showers are for right?
Some things you only learn by racing. Like that jalapeno cheese poppers are not exactly ideal mid-race food for instance. Or that double-wrapped handlebars at Paris-Roubaix can mean the difference between being able to actually grasp that post-race beer or not. S-Works proving grounds are the biggest races in the world. We work closely with some of the best athletes in the sport to make sure they have the best equipment possible when the gun goes off.
Got c obbles ?
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More bugs in the m o uth = M ore protein = More powe r.
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T roy Bro snan wins his f i rst E lite Wo rld Cup D ownhill in Fo rt W illiam , S c otland.
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B ody G eo metr y Fit techni c ians evaluate i f the yellow jersey will co mp liment Vinc enzo N ibali’s sk in to ne .
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The Specialized Program is committed to proving all our Specialized athletes with all the tools necessary to find maximum performance. From Body Geometry Fits to sessions in the Morgan Hill Wind Tunnel there’s no gain too small that can be made. Vincenzo Nibali worked closely over the past year with S-Racing honing his TT position and helping develop new equipment along the way – then he won the Tour de France. Just saying.
Team Omega Pha rma - Qui ck Ste p wo r k s o ut the m o st aer o dynamic way to mak e a beer run .
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T r oy Br o snan o f f the b r akes in M eribel, Fr anc e .
wh o farte d ?
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WHATever IT TAKES:
LEADership If you’ve held a mountain bike magazine in the last 20 years, you’ve seen Eric Carter. A member of the BMX Hall of Fame, “EC” made the switch to mountain
I personally embrace the positive energy of people walking up to the pit
bike racing in the mid-1990s, and quickly applied his sprinting, jumping,
who are stoked on the program, stoked on the riders, and use that to get
and cornering skillset to the worlds of Downhill and Dual Slalom. For
everyone pumped to go racing.
as decorated as his BMX career was, to this day EC’s influence on the mountain bike world reaches beyond his multiple National and World
“The biggest contribution I can make to our racers is to give some of my
titles. As every racer knows, their racing window is determined by Father
experience and knowledge from being in the start house. My day at a
Time, not their competitive desire. Carter, now 44 years old, has not
World Cup is actually spent up on the track. After the riders are signed
hung up his race bike by any means, but full-time competition has taken
up, I pretty much am on the hill analyzing lines, watching other riders,
a backseat to applying his legendary race preparation and analytical
evaluating how my guys’ suspension is working, and just seeing how all
approach to the Specialized Racing Factory Downhill team.
of these pieces fit into a complete run. I’m filming all of this so we can go over the footage together as a team at the end of the day. We specifically
“During my racing career, I always appreciated how dialed the race
look at lines, and also time sections so we can see which lines are fastest
teams were when it came to logistics and understanding the stress
or not worth the risk. Throughout the practice sessions I’m in radio
we, as racers, were under. The best teams took care of us by doing the
contact with the pits, so I’m aware of any changes being made to the
little details without having to ask about it. So, when I came into the
bikes or needs the riders or mechanics might have.
Specialized program I did my best to anticipate the riders’ needs, and as race weekend approached get those handled and addressed before
“There are a lot of moving parts to a World Cup race team, and success is
they’d have to ask. So far, as a team we’ve learned there are some things
based on the whole of the team. I specifically wanted my two mechanics,
I liked which they do not, and also requests they make which never
John Hall and John Canepa, because I thought their personalities would
crossed my mind. We’re all learning from each other and it’s becoming a
click with the riders. I thought Hall’s personality and proximity to Aaron
well-oiled unit. In addition to the analytical aspects side of racing, I really
in Southern California was a good fit, and I had a feeling my former
try to maintain a positive atmosphere and eliminate negativity from the
mechanic, Canepa, would get along well with Troy—so far, it’s all clicking.
pits.
“It would be easy for me to sit in the pits all day shaking hands, and after practice ask the boys how it went. I’d still get the same paycheck, but I don’t think we’d get the same results.” – Eric Carter
“My relationship with each of the guys is quite different. Troy is upfront
he’s different in the fact he never asks me what I think. He watches it and
letting me know he’s appreciative of my feedback and suggestions.
processes the line options in his own mind. I think both of them would say
This season, I think I’ve had the biggest impact on him, as he’s really
we have a good relationship and they’re benefitting from my experience.
embraced my knowledge and insight. In practice sessions he’ll see me on
I too get that feeling, and the results seem to show things are working.
course and stop to discuss a section or line choice. At the end of the day he’ll knock on my hotel door to ask a question about the track, bike setup
“Last year, those guys were going fast, but got a lot of fourths, fifths,
options, or anything, really. Troy likes to talk about what’s happening on
and sixth places. This year they’re each winning World Cups and both
the track and throughout the weekend.
ranked at the top of the World Cup standings. I think it’s an overall team effort to get those results. In reality, all of the top eight to ten guys are
“Look at his first Elite World Cup win this year at Fort William, for example.
capable of winning these races, but that one percent that separates the
I could tell before he went up for his very first practice run of the weekend
winner is the mental edge and confidence. I think by instilling positivity
he was in a comfortable place, confident, and prepared. After practice
in those guys when they’re at the pinnacle of stress, it can bring out that
and timed runs I tried to help him stay in his zone, in his bubble, and then
last one-percent of their ability and put them on the top of the podium. I
he followed it all up with his first qualifier win of his career. Well, that was
like to win, and I put that out there to the riders and those in the program.
great, and he was going the fastest, but that’s the most stressful thing
I sent a lengthy message saying I’m motivated for all of us to be the best
ever—meaning on race day he’ll be the last guy down the mountain. He’ll
we can, and I have high expectations of everyone involved. I want to win
be alone in the silent start house with only his mechanic to provide last
races, and I can’t do it anymore on the bike, so I’m going to win through
minute words of encouragement. Before his run I tried to instill in him to
you guys. And, as a team everyone has responded.
ride the course the same as he did in qualifying, just now focusing on the sprinting opportunities. Don’t override the corners or technical sections,
“In my era, there were only a handful of riders who were as strategic
because he didn’t need to. We saw everything in our own videos—he
as I was in my approach to racing and preparation—looking at lines,
was faster than everyone else in those sections, so just sprint where he
suspension setups, and all of the little details. Those qualities aren’t
could and ride the rest of the track like he did before—stay in his bubble.
exclusive to me, but I’m willing and motivated to share this knowledge
Troy did it, he pulled off his first win and we were all so proud of him—the
with our guys, who I believe can win.
fastest rider in the world on that day. “To be honest, as a team manager I don’t have to go up on the hill, study “Aaron is also from Southern California, and we’ve been friends for years
lines, and help the riders with strategy. My job duties don’t include that.
before I was his team manager. He approaches the race a little differently,
I do it because that’s something I wanted as a racer, I try to help those
and as a two-time World Cup champion, he keeps his cards closer to his
guys where I can. It would be easy for me to sit in the pits all day shaking
chest. In his own way he lets me know he appreciates or acknowledges
hands, and after practice ask the boys how it went. I’d still get the same
some of the aspects I incorporate. He likes to go over the footage, but
paycheck, but I don’t think we’d get the same results.”
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Specialize d Racing Downhill: ( fro m lef t ) John H all , A ar o n Gwin, T r oy Br o snan, E ri c Carte r , and J ohn Canepa .
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I f you love my bi k e s o mu c h why d o n ’ t you mar ry it!
Y o u c r ash , y o u r e c o ve r , then ne x t time y o u g o ha r d e r .
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T he loneliest k ilo mete r s make for the toughest spirit.
A sh o rt mem o ry is wo rth its weight in g o ld in this game .
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Fr anti š e k Rab o N o n the m o ooove .
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Kate C ou rtney d e f ies g r avity o n the Wo rld Cup XC ci r cuit.
ch ristop h str asser, r aam 20 14 c hampion, 3,0 20 miles in 7 days , 15 h o u rs , 5 6 minutes.
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Properly mani cure d nails have been sh own to result in a 4 5% inc rease in awes o me .
BRO S N A N S H A RES T H E CH A M PAGN E OF T H E DOW N H I LL H I GH LI FE .
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Queen o f Pain, Rebec c a Rus ch , g o ing amp hibian .
ref lecting o n the Wo r ld Cup f inals in Meribel , Fr anc e .
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Ra c ing B ull . Che c k
T h o r o ugh Re c o n . Che c k
ta ke us to yo u r lea der.
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T he women ’s p r o peloto n tak e over the streets o f Par is .
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WHATever IT TAKES:
Balance See the man. There he sits, eyes moored firmly to the ground at his feet. Head bowed, shoulders slightly slumped, and hands in loose repose, the
But empty as he was, Dan did get out of that chair. He then proceeded
left clasping a cold, bullet-like can of colored fizz. Periodically he sips.
to go almost half-an-hour faster than his winning time last year, (which snared him 7th this year, in the fastest Kanza on record). But it begs
This man is not a professional athlete. He’s not being paid to subject
the question. What does it take for the journeyman racer—a father, a
himself to this brute of a race. And the Dirty Kanza 200 is a brute. A
husband, a guy with a day job and a business to run—what does it take
horrendous physical assault on mind, and body, and bike. Two-hundred
to come back year after year and do this when there’s no paycheck, and
hot, windy, and dusty miles of belligerent, unforgiving gravel in the Flint
no reward but the memory of beating the sun, a pint glass, and if you’re
Hills of Kansas. He is a self-described ‘journeyman racer’. He doesn’t
lucky, no gravel rash.
have to race here, and yet... What does it take to get out of that chair? The man stares at the ground, lost in thought. He is Dan Hughes, four-time winner of the Dirty Kanza, and he has broken his one cardinal
For this journeyman racer, training for something like the Dirty Kanza is
rule for rest stops.
a delicate thing.
“Don’t ever f@*king sit down.”
“It’s tough to balance the need to go train with what is, honestly, really more important. And that’s family. I always think that family, and
Later, when looking back at this photograph and being asked why this
Sunflower (Dan and his wife Karla have owned Sunflower Outdoor and
one time he sat, when on so many other occasions he’s forbade even
Bike in Lawrence for 13 years), and riding my bike are the only three
the presence of chairs at rest stops, his answer comes simply. Honestly.
things I do. It’s a balancing act to get all that in.”
He doesn’t pull the punch. “It results in some, what I call ‘stupid rides’. Things like I’ll get up at 4 “It was sit down or fall down. And sitting down was closer,” he says.
a.m., eat breakfast, ride to my shop to drop off my bag, then go ride 100
“I mean I was done. In all my years of racing the Kanza, I’ve never been
miles. I’ll get back to the shop before 11:30 a.m., so I that can get my work
that close to quitting. Ever. I was just empty. An Existential Crisis in
done, then go pick up the kids from school and make dinner. All that
Cottonwood Falls,” he says, laughing.
sort of stuff. So it’s just stupid rides. It’s shoehorning training in around
“But hey,” he continues. “That’s what you signed up for.” – Dan Hughes a myriad of other responsibilities. I can’t tell you the number of times I’ve
shoved down your back at the rest stop. You know, weird things that to
ridden to a relative’s house because I need to get the miles in. It’s just
other people would be really strange. I mean if you were to say: ‘Oh yeah,
standard operating procedure. If you’re going to have a holiday function
what you do is you take a knee-high pantyhose and you put ice in it and
at your house I will need to use your shower because I’m going to ride
you shove it down your back, and the water drips down your hindquarters
there.”
and down the backs of your legs and it is AMAZING.’ People can’t wrap
When it comes to balancing the need to race and the desire to keep on
their minds around that. Unless you’re a rider and know what that is, it
going during the race itself, well, that’s a battle of mind and body. It’s
doesn’t mean anything. Those little things in that moment are just huge.
where the real mind games kick in. And it’s this process that drew Dan to
They loom incredibly large for their restorative properties.”
endurance events in the first place. Which brings us back to that chair. To that man in the chair. Dan’s “There are times where everything is clicking—the bike’s going great, the
Existential Crisis in Cottonwood Falls.
legs are feeling good, everything is hitting on all cylinders—but then 30 miles later you’re in the deepest suck cave there is and just looking for
“In that moment,” he says, “I’m just contemplating life. Just empty and
any excuse for a giant rock to jump up and break your bike so you can
very close to quitting. Then I look around and somewhere internally
have a legitimate excuse to quit. But that doesn’t last forever and so you
I think: ‘You have to finish it. Because if you don’t, then the sacrifices
kind of go through the highs and lows in a long event. You can’t really get
that you and your family have made will be for nothing.’ I guess it’s super
that in a short race.”
selfish to think it, but I think ‘You’ve got to finish because if you don’t then
“Between miles 120 and 160—that’s always the crux of the Kanza for me.
you just wasted all that time when you could have been a better father
Because you’re tired at that point, but it’s still a long way to the finish and
and a better husband and a better business man.”
you can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel yet. So any excuse from 120 to 160 is a pretty poignant excuse. Anything will do.”
Later, we talk about the Kanza and its hold over Dan. About why he races it, and will continue to for as long as he can – with nine years of Kanza’s,
And that’s when the mind games start. For example:
he has finished seven—but mostly about what he thinks it means to be a
“It’s bad, when you reach down for the (empty) bottle for the fourth time
journeyman racer.
and think ‘well, maybe, maybe I was wrong? Maybe there’s just a tiny little bit of water left in the bottom of that bottle? Maybe I got near to finishing
You know,” he says. “Some riders are just genetically gifted. I don’t feel
that bottle and just moved on to the next bottle, but now I’ll go back this
that way. I don’t really think I have any gifts and there’s nothing special
fourth time and now it’ll have a little bit of water left in it. Yes, I know it will
about what I do on a gravel bike. I feel like I’m just a guy who’s been
be that way.’ And then you open it - I mean you unscrew the lid and look
doing it for a long, long time and who’s suffered through a whole bunch
down in it to see if there’s any moisture in there.”
of mistakes and slowly, very slowly, figured out how to not make those mistakes again. I’ve gotten lucky, numerous times, and that’s it. That’s
He trails off, the still empty state of that bottle evident in his tone.
what a journeyman racer is to me. It’s somebody who doesn’t have a special skill-set, but tries really fucking hard.”
“But hey,” he continues. “That’s what you signed up for. That’s what
See the man. There he sits in quiet contemplation. The air is thick with
you wanted to do and knowing that those dark periods will give way to
heat and his arms and legs shimmer in dusty mirage of resting effort.
something better down the road, that’s a good motivator. But keeping
What the body betrays in that moment, with filthy limbs and beading
the voices at bay is a challenge.”
moisture, the expression does not. This journeyman racer will always find new ways to dig deep. For as long as the Kanza lets him.
“And you know what? The beauty of it is in those ‘better down the road’ moments. Simple things like that fourth handful of M&Ms, or the ice sock
“I love the Kanza,” he says. “I have to come back.”
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The Di rty Kanz a 200 start line . W here thousand -yar d stares a re b o rn .
Remembe r that
I nsi d e a sn
time we r a c e d
o w gl o be ?
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A nne k k e B eerten o ut hunting for sh ots for he r ne x t Christmas c ar d.
Freeride ico n Da rren B errecloth c elebr ates 10 years in the S pec ializ e d family with 4 sec onds o f hangtime .
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ch r isto p h sause r
D U D E STOLE MY LOOK
M AT T EO T RE N T I N
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M i c hele S c a r p oni d o ing Zo ne 6 hyd r ati o n intervals.
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WHATever IT TAKES:
Sacrifice An individual sport practiced by teams. Cycling as a team sport is a bit confusing to the casual spectator. All of the glory, prestige, and prizes are hoisted upon the shoulders of
“I always make sure to do my homework before the Tour,” he claims.
a single person, yet that person belongs to a team. Why don’t the other
“I need to make sure that I am doing everything I can to ensure Vincenzo
riders of the team go for the win as well? Why sacrifice oneself endlessly
is placed in the ideal position when it’s most critical.”
so that your teammate can relish in the glow of singular victory? It’s a conundrum that’s existed as long as the races themselves. In short,
Whether that ideal position is at the front of the peloton leading into the
victory for these lone champions would be impossible without their teams
Tourmalet or just not snoring at night, the job of a domestique spans more
there to help them. A Tour de France win in Paris is impossible without
than just cycling. The Tour is arguably the largest single annual sporting
the three weeks of sacrifice carried out by the eight teammates riding
event in the world. For nearly a month, over 3,500 participants in varying
with you. There are only a handful of individuals capable of winning the
capacities travel with the Tour de France, and that’s not including the
biggest bike races on any given day. It takes exceptional talent across an
spectators. With that much infrastructure, the Tour isn’t unlike a traveling
array of disciplines to win a Grand Tour, leaving the honor to only a very
circus at times. A new hotel room every night is the norm and finding a
few. However, without the support of a team of dedicated role-players,
roommate who can make this transient existence less stressful is key.
all of the training in the world will never make up for what would be
Alessandro Vanotti came with Vincenzo to Astana at the same time for
lost. This is the realm of the unsung heroes of the sport. The oftentimes
precisely that reason.
unrecognized warriors that occupy the trenches of spent kilometers. The selfless sacrifice of those that epitomize what team sports are all about—
“The Tour isn’t merely just the stages, it’s everything that happens before
the domestiques.
and after too,” explains Vanotti. Coping with the mental challenges of a race of this magnitude cannot be shouldered alone. “As Vincenzo’s
Michele Scarponi isn’t your typical domestique. As a former winner of the
roommate I am there to help mitigate any stress or fears that he may have.”
Giro d’Italia as well as Tirreno-Adriatico, the Italian from Filottrano knows a thing or two about what it takes to win races—big races. With Grand
The amount of stress on the riders of the Tour is a part of the race that
Tours becoming so specialized, having “super-domestiques” is now
is rarely seen. From press conferences, to media interviews, to sponsor
almost a requirement. Scarponi was brought into Team Astana to help
obligations, to team meetings, to course recon, the amount of time riders
usher team leader Vincenzo Nibali through the three weeks of traversing
have to actually concentrate on racing and recovery seems to dwindle
everything France has to offer. “It’s a race unlike any other,” Scarponi
more every year. Therefore it is imperative to have the type of support
explains. “It’s so difficult because it’s a race that’s so important.” Michele
structure that can help filter those stresses out, leaving the team leader
is capable of maintaining pace with Vincenzo in the mountains where
to only have to worry about the next climb on the horizon.
isolation as a team captain can mean catastrophe.
“My motivation to win individually is a secondary desire, sure it’s there, but my commitment to the team and Vincenzo always comes first.” – Alessandro Vanotti
It might be difficult to ascertain why riders like Vanotti and Scarponi
water bottles on in their jersey to pass out to thirsty teammates. Taking
haven taken to this specialized role. At the end of the day these are both
each rider and applying their cadre of skills when it’s needed most is
professional athletes who have achieved the level of success they’ve had
something many teams try to accomplish but often fall short.
in their careers no doubt because of their killer instinct and desire to win. Yet, it’s that very aspect that makes the dedication to the role of domestique
“All of us are trying to work together to create a perfect machine,”
that much more noble. The role of sacrifice in cycling is universal, everybody
explains Scarponi. A well-oiled and disciplined coalition of riders ready
suffers. However, when those individuals sacrifice their own personal
and willing to put themselves on the line for a common cause. “All of the
ambition for the common goal of the team, a brotherhood is established.
other teams are trying to do this,” Scarponi continues. “But few get it right over the entire three weeks.”
“For me just being here at the Tour as part of the selected team is my motivation,” explains Vanotti. Just being chosen as a part of the elite
More than just attentive, hardworking, and selfless, a domestique is
group of nine riders that get to race the Tour is an honor unto itself. To
the epitome of what makes up a teammate. A domestique ensures his
then take those nine riders and attempt to work together towards an
captain is well placed when the race could get dangerous. A domestique
overall Tour victory is another thing entirely. Alessandro of course isn’t
will offer the wheel from his own bike if his captain flats without a support
void of ambition:
vehicle close by. A domestique serves as a calming force when the obligations and stress of the race reach a boiling point. A domestique
“My motivation to win individually is a secondary desire, sure it’s there,
is an interpreter of emotions, translating the more nuanced shifts and
but my commitment to the team and Vincenzo always comes first.”
helping insulate against the minutiae of commercial sport. Yet most
It’s an attitude more often associated with team sports rather than the
importantly, a world-class domestique is someone whose reliability is
seemingly singular plight of the Tour de France victor.
surpassed perhaps only by their unselfishness. It’s a quality that’s difficult to find these days, especially in sport, yet that’s what makes it even more
There’s a poetry in deconstructing a three-week Grand Tour as a
inspirational to witness.
team. There are those teammates that can help navigate the fast and often skittish opening flat stages. The teammates that have an almost
And yet, at the end of the day domestiques are still athletes like anyone
preternatural ability to determine whether or not a breakaway is worth
else. When asked what’s the hardest part of his role, Alessandro Vanotti
chasing down or not. Then there are the teammates who can carry 15
replied with a wry grin: “Too many interviews.”
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Alessand r o Vanotti als o tak es kille r p r o file p i ctu res .
I f eyes a r e the win d o ws t o the s o ul , k nees a r e the r o a d ma p s t o a c y c list ’ s c a r ee r .
The church of suffering. 55
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Jan F rod en o’s co llecti on of Finish L ine banne rs c ould line 4 football fields.
Ellen “ The A nimal” Van Dijk . 201 3 I T T World Champi on.
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WHATever IT TAKES:
Suffering
“That’s actually what you’re aiming for: to be as dead as possible.” – Ellen Van Dijk
Your past. It doesn’t matter. Your previous palmarès, your potential future, and the fact that you are
“It’s really hard to explain the pain and what’s going on in your body,”
the current World Champion. None. Of. This. Matters. All that matters
says Van Dijk, affectionately known as “the Animal” because of her huge
right now, in this moment, is your ability to truly suffer. Through the
power and beastly speed. It’s a name that also can’t hurt when it comes
screaming in your legs, the thunderous doubts in your head, and the
to her ability to slough off the pain and just push through.
burning pain in your lungs. “All you want to do is just stop and sit next to your bike and not ride it A voice in your ear says, “0.5 seconds.”
anymore,” she says, when talking about those pain points in the ITT. “But you know that you have to go ‘faster, faster, faster’ and always try to get
You are half-a-second back. Time to go. Faster, faster, faster.
more out of your body. You’re never satisfied. You might be like ‘oh, I’m hurting so much,’ but you know you always have to hurt more.”
The Individual Time Trial is affectionately known by all as the Race of Truth. For good reason. You can’t bluff your way through it. You can’t sit in
“And everything has to hurt. When you cross that finish line, the best thing is
and let your teammates pull you to the line. Nope. This is all down to you.
to crash off your bike and just lay there for five minutes. That’s actually what
And it’s that honestly—that truth—that makes it Ellen Van Dijk’s favorite
you’re aiming for: to be as dead as possible. It’s not just your legs in the end,
discipline, and as the 2013 ITT World Champion, she knows a little about
everything is hurting. The trick is to not give too much attention to the pain.”
what it takes. It would be easy to romanticize Time Trialing. A beautiful discipline “It’s just such a pure event,” she says. “The strongest rider wins and there
broken down to the simplest of elements—the rider, the bike, the road,
are no excuses. In road racing you get, ‘Yeah but this happened and this
and the clock. But under the surface, there is always that pain, and to be
happened’ [when you think about why you didn’t win]. But in time trialing,
a true champion like Ellen Van Dijk or Tony Martin, a rider must learn to
it’s only about who is the fastest rider, who has the most power, and
corral that pain. To lasso it and use it to their advantage.
who’s the strongest. That’s something I just really love about it.” “I don’t know if you really get better at enduring pain,” says Ellen. “But I As romantic and pure as that sounds, let’s not kid ourselves here. Time
mean you get kind of used it to. Time trialing is suffering. It’s suffering to
trialing hurts. It really, really hurts. And because of its truth—no team,
the maximum. The more you can suffer the faster you can time trial. The
slipstream, no help—you must rely on your ability to compartmentalize
most important thing is to try not to think about that suffering. It’s hard,
pain in a valiant effort to ignore its attention-seeking ways. You must be
but it’s something that really belongs to time trialing.
willing to go even harder when all your body is doing is screaming at you to, for love of Merckx, just please stop.
Now, faster. Go faster, faster, faster.
Two-time Wor ld Cup D H c ham p i on A ar on Gwin ab oar d the all- new S- Wo r ks Dem o 8.
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WHATever IT TAKES:
Inspiration Sometimes we have to look back to figure out how to move forward. It’s entirely possible that Chuck Teixeira has forgotten more about bikes
“I really believe, a lot of times that newer materials allow you to make
than most people know. For the better part of 25 years, Chuck has applied
things become successful that maybe were not in the past because of the
his technical expertise to help shape and influence the cycling industry as
technical limitations.” The S-Works Allez is the perfect representation of
a whole. As Senior R&D Engineer at Specialized, Chuck’s experience has
this ethos. Aluminum bikes carry a bit of a stigma, sure they’re incredibly
resulted in some of the most progressive projects to hit the road and trail,
stiff and capable, but the harsh ride quality has always been a major
including the all-new S-Works Allez.
detractor. Chuck always had a fond place in his heart for the material and felt that it never quite got its fair shake once carbon was introduced and
Inspiration comes in many forms for everyone. For some it’s the elegant
began to dominate the industry. “I think that technology was just kind
lines of a beautifully crafted custom hot rod. For others, it’s the natural
of, blowing through that time period,” Chuck explains. “It just felt like
elegance and efficiency of an oak tree. Some find motivation in advancing
maybe something got missed.” With that in mind, Chuck teamed up with
ideas from the past. For Chuck, it’s all of these things.
Specialized Creative Specialist Chris D’Aluisio to remaster the aluminum bike. The tipping point for Chuck was when Chris invented D’Aluisio
“I find inspiration in all types of motorsports,” Chuck explains. And, as
Smartweld Technology. It was a revolutionary new way to weld aluminum
the owner of one of the most impressive Custom 1950 Mercury Sedan’s
and reignited Chuck’s passion for the material.
you’ll ever see—of which nearly all of the fabrication and customization was done by Chuck himself—that should come as no surprise. Chuck’s
“When I first saw Smartweld I thought to myself ‘Wow,’” he explains.
Mercury is the perfect representation of his personality actually,
“I recognized it as something really valuable and something that was
completely unique and homegrown. Much more than just a show pony,
going to allow me to achieve something I wasn’t able to do in the past
Chuck never hesitates to take the red-flame liveried Merc’ out to the salt
because it’s such a different approach.” With this novel new technology
flats for speed runs. It’s a functional piece of art that operates just as
the possibilities all of a sudden became endless. It was as if Chuck was
beautifully as it looks. It should come as no surprise that Chuck decided
working with aluminum for the first time. Now compliance and targeted
against rehabbing a more modern car—he’s always found a healthy dose
tube shapes with implicit engineering protocols were a possibility.
of motivation in relics of the past.
Aluminum didn’t need to ride like, well, aluminum anymore.
“I really believe, a lot of times that newer materials allow you to make things become successful that maybe were not in the past because of the technical limitations.” – Chuck Teixeira
“We were able to explore all of these new possibilities with
So what does the future of cycling look like to Chuck?
aluminum because people are interested in it again,” Chuck continued “it’s an incredible material and I don’t think we’ve
“I think exploring how we can develop bikes that
even come close to exploring all the boundaries.”
work for certain types of people is very exciting,” Chuck explained. “By increasing our understanding
The enthusiasm Chuck still has for an industry he’s been
of how bikes behave and react to riders we can
involved in for so long is contagious. Most of that is
develop
machines
that
perform
so
much
better.”
fueled pure and simply by a noticeable love for the sport. Another part of that is driven by his insatiable desire to
The excitement Chuck has for the projects that are yet to
figure things out. “I’ve always got more questions than
come is evident by how excited he becomes when he’s
I have answers,” Chuck laments. “But that’s why I think
speaking about them. Regardless of where exactly the future
it’s so important to keep your eyes open to everything
of cycling is headed, knowing that Chuck Teixeira is at the
so you don’t miss something you never saw coming.”
forefront and just as hungry as ever should leave us all more than just a little excited about what he has up his sleeve next.
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A man in his element.
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H owar d Gr otts g o es ove r the river and thr ough the wo o ds .
Just an othe r day in the o f fi ce for Ra fal Ma jk a .
69 Researc h sh ows tie-dye shark shirts lead to better mountainsi de pa rties .
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sweet sk i d b r o.
If you were looking for the intersection of “awesome” and “really, extremely good looking” you found it. The S-Works line of products not only look great, but provide next-level performance to ensure you only have to concentrate on riding faster. Speaking of faster, the new S-Works TT helmet is a wind-defying, allout aero assault for the race against the clock. Helping to keep all that fast on the tarmac are the new S-Works Turbo Tires featuring our proprietary Gripton compound which offer the type of speed and traction the Omega Pharma – Quick Step team demands. It’s a cohesive package of elite-level products that will help take you to the next level.
ROA D CO LLECT ION
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The S-Works Venge is what happens when Specialized engineers decide they want to make a TT bike that rides and handles like your favorite road bike. With the ability to transfer power efficiently, thanks to its FACT 11r carbon frame, and wind-cheating aerodynamics, aided by a set of Roval Rapide CLX 60 wheels, there’s a myriad of adjectives that could be employed to describe the S-Works Venge—the bottom line is that it just feels faster (saving 45 seconds over 40 kilometers compared to a Tarmac will have that effect). Holding the wheel in front of you, a lone solo breakaway, cresting a back road roller, they all feel faster. But that should come as no surprise seeing as how it’s the bike of choice for Mark Cavendish. He knows a thing or two about going fast.
VE NG E
S -Wor ks V e n g e / TOO FAST FOR ITS OWN GOO D
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It’s not easy following up a legend. The Tarmac SL4 is one of the best reviewed and winningest road bikes on the road—so how do you improve on that? We started by developing the new Tarmac with Rider-First Engineered™ technology which means we did not just make one new Tarmac we—we made seven new Tarmacs. Every frame is individually engineered, with it’s own performance targets, to ensure complete performance at every size. The only thing more satisfying than the instantaneous responsiveness and deftly tuned descending prowess may be the hydraulic braking performance. It will stop you so quickly you just may lose your lunch—then again you didn’t need that extra weight going up the climbs anyways did you?
Tarmac
S -Wor ks Ta rmac / 2 0 14 TO UR D E FRAN C E W INNER
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All the best racehorses have a little bit of wild spirit in them. Ready to go, to leap forward, free and unbridled for the line with just a loosening of a reign and slight urging. The S-Works Amira shares the same untamed spirit and snappiness-off-the-line as any thoroughbred born to race. As the bike of choice for the fastest women in the pro peloton, the Amira’s race-optimized, FACT 11r carbon frame with Women’s Performance Geometry and layup is partnered with CLX 40 wheels and premium Dura-Ace drivetrain to give women all the horsepower and ‘giddyup!’ they need to get there first.
AMIRA
S -Wor ks A mi ra / B ORN TO RACE
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There’s a reason the S-Works Roubaix SL4 shares its name with one of the most brutal one day races on the calendar. Like the cobbles of northern France, the Roubaix will show you what you’re truly capable of on a bicycle. No road is too steep, no terrain too difficult, and no goal too lofty aboard the S-Works Roubaix. Endurance performance is a tricky beast to tackle but the S-Works Roubaix SL4 toes the line perfectly. With all of the responsiveness you’d find in a Tarmac thanks to its FACT 11r carbon frame, matched with the compliance needed to keep you fresh well into that fifth hour on cobbled roads from the Zertz vibration damping inserts and CG-R seatpost, there’s not much this bike can’t do. You’ll be blown away at how light and snappy the S-Works Roubaix SL4 is, a bit like when Niki Terpstra blew away the competition to take victory at Roubaix this year.
RO UB A IX
S -Wor ks R oubai x SL4 / 5 x Pa ris - Ro ubai x W i n n e r
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The S-Works Allez has the power to leave riders a bit perplexed. It’s instantly responsive, impossibly light, descends nimbly, and deftly absorbs road chatter. Characteristics not typically found in aluminum. Thanks to its patented D’Aluisio Smartweld technology which allows for much more consistent and effective weld contact points, the S-Works Allez is lighter and more compliant than any aluminum bike we’ve ever made. It’s a testament to the singular focus our engineers have when it comes to making the best bikes possible that they were able to create something from aluminum that can rival carbon. It’s a no compromise, race-bred machine that is more than capable of tackling group rides and local races. Plus the look on people’s faces when they get beat by an aluminum bike is something you’ll never get tired of.
Allez
S -Wor ks A ll e z * / Best U s e o f A lumi num S i n c e the C a n ( * on ly availabl e as Fram ese t )
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Cyclocross and gravel are not for the faint of heart. They’re a lung-searing, leg-shredding assault on the body that demands as much of your skills as it does of your bike. The S-Works Crux relishes the challenge. Born from the remnants of frozen mud, sweat, sand, and dirt and hardened by the relentless spirit of competition, the S-Works Crux is capable of tackling any type of terrain. Light and responsive thanks to its FACT 11r carbon construction, fully integrated hydraulic disc brakes, and CG-R seatpost which adds comfort without sacrificing performance, the only limit to where this bike will take you will depend on how good your chamois is.
C rux
S -Wor ks Cr u x / J UST ADD g rav e l
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Triathletes can win and lose races in the transitions. Therefore cutting time from the swim to the bike is crucial to success in the sport. Taping gels and bars to your bike frame like some type of bad Modernist installation collage done by a hypoglycemic art student is not the best solution to this quandary. Enter the Fuelselage, a slick, integrated, and aero nutrition storage system that keeps your food within reach and the extra tape in the garage. Making sure fast stays faster is the all new magnetic-lock closure system on the S-Works Evade helmet. Utilizing magnets instead of the standard clip closure ensures a quick, secure, and sleek transition—looks like your bike split is about to go to 11.
Tr i Co llectio n
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Sometimes breaking the rules is exactly what’s needed. That’s what we did with the S-Works Shiv. We took the UCI rulebook and threw it in the trash. We then proceeded to engineer the fastest triathlon-specific bike we could. In addition to next-level aerodynamics we designed the Fuelcell and Fuelselage integrated storage systems. By designing a drink and storage system directly into the bike you’re able to stay on top of your nutrition while retaining an aerodynamic advantage. It’s more than just a bike, it’s an integrated cycling solution so all you have to do is pedal and think about that run you’ve still got to do.
S hiv
S -Wor ks S hiv / Kon a Wor ld C hampi o N
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Nobody enjoys the wind on a bike—especially in a time trial. You can’t escape it. It’s always there, laughing at you, daring you try and defy its relentless onslaught. The S-Works Shiv TT dares to laugh back. It’s designed to be the fastest bike against the clock, period. Featuring UCI-legal aerodynamics, fully integrated cockpit, FACT 11r carbon construction, and near infinite position and fit options it’s more than prepared for the battle against the stopwatch. With more professional wins to its name than Eskimos have words for snow, the S-Works Shiv TT is the ultimate no-holds-barred clock killer. Oh and did we mention it’s won every single Men’s Individual Time Trial World Championship since it was introduced in 2009? Now you know.
S hiv T T
S -Wor ks S hiv T T / 5 Cons ecutive Me n ’ s In dividual T T Wor ld C hampi onships a nd c ounti ng
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Cross-Country is synonymous with lightweight equipment and ultimate efficiency, but it is possible to look cool going fast—we promise. So, yank those cotton balls from your nose and check out our S-Works XC shoe. It is unmatched in comfort, fit, and power transfer to the pedal, plus features the super-dialed BOA closure system. Dropper posts are vital to optimized handling on technical terrain, and the all-new, lightweight, carbon fiber XCP dropper post is specifically designed to meet the needs XC racers by providing optimal climbing, cornering, and descending positions with the push of a button. Cooler heads prevail, and the S-Works Prevail helmet is super-lightweight and features 4th Dimension ventilation to maximize airflow and keep you fresh during hard efforts. The all-new S-Works Phenom saddle features a carbon base and rails, plus medically proven to help you ride longer and in more comfort. There’s no quicker way to improve your bikes handling than perfectly matching the tires with the terrain you ride. The S-Works Fast Trak has countless championships under its belt, but how can it be so good? Easy, the Fast Trak is tubeless ready, and features lightest-weight casing and construction to create a fast-rolling tread pattern with plenty of bite for hard cornering and maintaining momentum.
XC CO LLECT I ON
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Man is a funny creature. If something has wheels, he will figure out a way to race it, and explore every performance advantage in pursuit of victory along the way. Yep, we’re guilty. So, how could we make the only full-suspension XC bike to win Olympic gold and multiple World Championships even faster? By assembling a team of designers, engineers, pro racers (actually, our designers and engineers race, too), and suspension experts to develop a completely new FACT 11m carbon frame with SWAT technology to carry ride essentials, a smarter Brain shock controlling the most-refined FSR suspension to date, carbon construction XCP dropper post with a 35mm drop position, and round it out with our revolutionary Roval Control SL 29 wheelset. Epic—the gold standard redefined.
Breaking news: taping tubes and tools to your ultra-spendy XC bike is bush league. You can ditch that bad habit and simply run the SWAT MTB Kit, which allows you to carry ride essentials on the new Epic or Stumpjumper, eliminating your bulky hydration pack crammed with years of “Dooms Day” supplies. The sleek kit features innovative gadgets to make your life easier, such as the Top Cap Chain Tool, plus the cage-mounted SWAT Box to hold a CO2, levers, multi-tool, tube, and the trail treats of your choice.
E p ic
S -WORKS E P IC WOR LD CUP / T H E ON LY FULL-SUSPENSI ON O LYMP IC CHAMP I ON
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Is it moxie? Is it hutzpah? Is it enough raw speed to guarantee motion blur? Actually, the all-new S-Works Era embodies all these qualities, but with some barely contained ‘let’s do this!’ enthusiasm mixed in. Designed and engineered to be the fastest, lightest, and best-fitting women’s full-suspension XC machine—already race-proven with Annika Langvard’s victory at Marathon Worlds—the S-Works Era features FSR suspension and the RockShox RS-1 Brain shock, and is the only woman’s XC bike that dynamically reads terrain for everything from uphill sprints to singletrack descents. Up, down, PRs, and podiums—this gal’s got game.
Era
S -WORKS ERA / 2 0 14 MARAT HON WORLD CHAMP I ON
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A carbon hardtail, really? Hey, 1997 is on the phone and wants its XC bike back. Not so fast smart guy! With numerous World and National Championships in its trophy case, this purebred cross-country racer features an all-new, SWAT-compatible FACT carbon 29er frame engineered for stiffness, yet provides a smooth ride with vertically compliant shaped seatstays. The refined XC Race-specific geometry means precise handling at speed; plus the groundbreaking and tubeless-ready Roval Control SL wheelset is crazy light for quick acceleration, while tough to withstand the roughest race courses. Sure, XC racers earn their stripes on the climbs, but ripping the descents is equally as crucial in pursuit of victory. The addition of the carbon XCP dropper post with a 35mm drop will put the uphill rocketeers in the proper descending position to reel in the competition on all sections of the course. When your cross-country challenge demands a quick, efficient, and agile hardtail, there’s no substitute for the S-Works Stumpjumper.
Stum pj umpe r H T
S -WORKS ST UMPJ UMPER HT / XC WOR LD CHAMP I ON
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Nimble is as nimble does, and the S-Works Fate takes it to a whole new level. Light and lively as a cat on a hot tin roof, the Fate marries her playful attitude with groundbreaking performance that turns heads and leaves everyone eating her expertly delivered trail dust. As our lightest women’s hardtail, the S-Works Fate is a clear choice for pure efficiency and performance—whether racing XC or shredding local trails—and responds enthusiastically to your every whim. Equipped with the sport’s most cutting edge components, the S-Works Fate stands alone with a 80mm-travel RockShox SID World Cup Brain fork, and the super-lightweight and World-Championship-winning carbon Roval Control SL wheelset. No doubt about it—Fate is calling your name.
Fate
S -WORKS FAT E / Leadvill e a n nihilator
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Stumpjumper FSR, Camber, and Enduro riders are hungry for performance-oriented gear and equipment, but who wants to look like they stepped out of the pro peloton? The “Trail” category is where XC efficiency meets DH performance and attitude, for the perfect combination of strength and style. The new S-Works Trail shoe is designed for guys who thrive on technically demanding singletrack. These new kicks utilize subtle ankle protection and the proven Body Geometry SL Footbed for ultra-light, long-lasting arch support. Tires are crucial for reliable performance, and the all-new GRID tire casing found on the 2.3-inch Purgatory and Butcher are super lightweight, tubeless-ready, but also durable for saving your butt through a lousy line choice. Good news, your a pursuit of wide, low-rise, carbon handlebar that can handle the rigors of aggressive singletrack has come to end. The redesigned S-Works Prowess Carbon Enduro bar is specifically tuned to meet your riding style. Any trail bike without a quality dropper post isn’t worth its weight in shop rags. The internally routed and mechanically actuated Command Post IR provides the ideal climbing and descending positions on the fly, plus features the all-new, super-sleek SRL handlebar mounted lever.
Tr ail Co llecti o n
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With the title “Legendary Trail Bike” comes big-boy responsibility. Not to toot our own horn, but when our full-suspension FSR bikes have won both CrossCountry and Downhill World Championships, it’s no wonder our 130mm-travel Stumpjumper FSR combines the best of those disciplines for the most versatile bike on the mountain. Although trail riding is considered a “category” or “style” in the sport today, in actuality, it’s the original and simply the purest form of mountain biking—charge the uphills with speed and efficiency; rip the flowing, skill-testing descents; share post-ride stories over a frosty beverage back at the truck with your buddies. Available in 29er, the FACT carbon S-Works Stumpjumper FSR is loaded with advanced features, like AUTOSAG to simplify suspension setup, a trail-tuned Brain shock, and the internally routed Command Post to assure the optimum riding position at all times.
Stum pj umper FSR
ST UMPJ UMPER FSR / M ORE V ERSAT ILE T HA N A N E L CAMI NO
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The Camber began life as a purpose-built trail machine engineered to be quick uphill, a blast on ripping descents, and straight-up fun. As the Camber exploded in popularity we pulled out all of the stops to give it the S-Works treatment it deserved, and in turn created the fastest and most playful trail bike in the game. The Camber gives riders everything they need, and nothing they don’t. What exactly does that mean? The answer is the perfect blend of performance, capability, and innovation. With the ultra-lightweight, yet durable, Roval 29-inch carbon wheelset, 110mm travel, and internal cable routing, the full-carbon S-Works Camber is premium trail performance for the speed-minded shredder.
Cambe r
S -WORKS CAMB ER / LI G HT ER , FASTER , FUNNER
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Choose your own adventure—that’s how we look at All-Mountain. Our iconic S-Works Enduro is synonymous with back-country exploration, performance, and capability; and captured “Bike of The Year” by leading media outlets. Available in both 650band 29-inch wheel sizes, the Enduro features slack AllMountain Geometry and a tight rear-end for ultimate handling on technically demanding terrain. The S-Works Enduro has 155mm of plush and efficient FSR suspension (165mm on 650b), an internally routed Command Post seatpost, and all-new, ultra-wide Roval Traverse SL Fattie Carbon wheelset. The S-Works Enduro has redefined All-Mountain—all over again.
Enduro
S -WORKS EN DURO / 2 x “ BI KE O F T HE YEAR ” - SAS Q UATCH HUN T ER ILLUST RATE D
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When boosting jumps at your local ski resort’s bike park, or taking a last deep breath as you count down the beeps in the DH race start house, you need to believe in your skills, and of course your equipment. In Downhill, the contact points are crucial—the ones connecting you to the bike and the one keeping your rig under control on white-knuckle terrain. Specialized DH tires, like the all-new Slaughter, are proven to keep you hooked up on the nastiest trails, and have won multiple World and National Downhill Championships underneath a gang of mountain bike icons. Flat pedal riders rejoice, as the Boomslang is the most advanced pedal of its kind the sport has ever seen. With grease ports and removable pins the Boomslang is super serviceable and performs even better than it looks. Speaking of highly advanced technologies, the Öhlins TTX shock is the new benchmark in DH shock technology, developed by the leader in performance suspension and utilizes the motocross-inspired internal bladder system and ultra-fine spring rates to dial in the proper feel for every rider.
Lightweight, yet insanely strong, carbon fiber components take downhill equipment to the next level. The new S-Works Carbon DH handlebar is super-wide for you bar-dragging berm blasters; while the ultra-ventilated and feather-light carbon fiber Dissident has you covered whether you’re going for speed or style. Foot out-flat out, that’s the inspiration behind the 2FO shoe. It’s lightweight, features super-grippy Slipnot rubber, and is available in park-friendly flat pedal and podium-hunting clipless versions.
G r avity Co llecti on
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Six beeps—that’s what stands between the racer and three minutes of mayhem where their skills, equipment, and mettle are tested against the clock. In Downhill, a fraction of a second separates legends from losers. So, why do the world’s best riders want to race the bike with four World Championships and multiple World Cup titles? Perhaps it’s the groundbreaking new S-Works Demo 8’s full-carbon, 650b-specific frame, one-of-a-kind Öhlins shock, unique 135mm rear hub spacing and Micro Drive, or proven DH Race Geometry. Actually, we’re pretty sure it’s because we designed and engineered it to be the ultimate downhill bike, featuring 210mm of FSR suspension and World Cup proven component spec for maximum control on the world’s gnarliest terrain.
Dem o 8
S -WORKS D E M O 8 / P O DIUM -SPECIFIC ENGINEER ING
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Thanks Specialized would like to thank the following photographers for consistently being in the right place at the right time and capturing those moments in riding that make the hairs on the back of our necks stand up. Without you, this book would just be a bunch of words.
Dan Escobar, Sterling Lorence Photography, Gary Perkin/Flipper, Graham Watson, Brakethrough Media, Carson Blume Photography, Michal Cerveny, Sebastian Schieck Photography, Cameron Baird, Yuzuru Sunada, and Emily Maye Photography, Andy White, Eric Benjamin, Paris Gore, Justin Sullivan, Karelly | lupispuma.com, Ale Di Lullo, Sean Robinson, Nils Nilsen – cheers!
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* CHECK OUt S PECIALIZED.COM FOR THE NERDY STU FF (specs, geos, etc.)
Spec s
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WARNING: The action depicted in this catalog is AWESOME, BUT YES, sometimes dangerous. The riders seen are experienced experts or professionals. Refer to your owner’s manual AND/OR COMMON SENSE for instructions regarding the use of your bicycle. Do not attempt to duplicate any stunts that are beyond the capabilities of your bicycle or your own capabilities. DON’T BE DUMB, Always wear the appropriate safety gear.
SPECIALIZED BICYCLES 2015 Š2014-2015, Specialized Europe B.V. specialized.com