Specialized Crux 5 Sport - Shimano GRX 800

The Crux 5 Sport is a gravel race bike for riders who prefer the simplicity of a mechanical drivetrain on a carbon race frame. The FACT 10r carbon frame weighs 897 grams, and a size 56 build comes in at 8.94 kg (19 lb, 11.3 oz). Rider First Engineered construction matches the layup to each frame size, while a threaded BB, 12x142mm rear thru-axle, flat-mount disc interface, and UDH dropout keep service and upgrades simple. An S-Works FACT carbon fork runs a 12x100mm thru-axle up front.

Shifting comes from a Shimano GRX mechanical 12-speed group, with GRX ST-RX820 levers and a GRX RD-RX822-GS rear derailleur driving a Shimano XT 10-45t cassette and XT chain off a 40t GRX crankset. Shimano GRX BR-RX820 hydraulic disc brakes handle stopping front and rear. DT Swiss G500 rims have a 26mm internal width and tubeless-ready bead, 24h front and rear on Specialized sealed-bearing hubs with DT Swiss Champion stainless spokes and brass nipples. Pathfinder 700x45 tubeless-ready tires grip across loose gravel and hardpack.

The cockpit pairs a Specialized Adventure Gear alloy handlebar, set with 118.9mm of drop, 70mm of reach, and 12 degrees of flare, to a Roval Rapide alloy stem at -6 degrees. A Body Geometry Power Sport saddle on steel rails and Supacaz Super Sticky Kush tape finishes the contact points, with an S-Works Tarmac SL8 carbon seat post at 15mm offset on an integrated wedge binder. For the rider who wants cable-actuated shifting and easy trailside service, the Crux 5 Sport holds gravel race pace without the batteries.