Whether it’s a glitch with the company’s website or a deliberate slow-leak, Specialized’s German website has several noteworthy 2016 road items on display that don’t appear on the US, UK or Australian versions.
We reached out to Specialized to ask about the product, but Specialized representatives declined to comment.
Crux gets thru-axles
Ahead of this year’s cyclocross season Specialized has given the Crux a makeover. The lines are the same, but the frame and fork now sport thru-axles. While disc brake axle standards are in flux on the road, it seems that Specialized has chosen to go with 142x12mm for the rear and 100x15mm for the fork.
Related: The road disc axle shuffle
While all the carbon versions of the Crux get thru-axles, the alloy bikes appear to stick with quick-releases for the time being. It’s also worth noting that cantilever-equipped models are out for 2016.
Specialized Airnet
Specialized is adding a new road helmet to its line-up. The aptly-named Airnet incorporates design cues from the leather ‘hairnet’ style of headwear of the ‘70s and early ‘80s into a sleek modern helmet.
Much like Giro’s Synthe, the Airnet looks to balance clean lines with aerodynamic gains. (Although, data from our recent wind tunnel tests indicate that Specialized’s traditionally-shaped S-Works Prevail is no slouch when it comes to slicing through the wind.)
Related: Best aero road helmets
The Airnet has 20 forward-facing vents and three massive exhaust vents to keep air moving through the helmet. It uses the company’s Mindset system to dial in fit. Additional features include dri-release merino wool pads, and reflective detailing.
The Airnet will come in small, medium and large sizes. Pricing, weight and availability have yet to be announced.
