Specialized Allez Elite (2018)

Well-performing recreational road bike with one blemish

Pros

- Top of the line frame
- Ace 105 drivetrain
- Comfortable layout

Cons

- Heavy wheelset
- Brakes anemic

Review

It takes a brave manufacturer – one with deep pockets and huge confidence in its design team – to take a successful bike, scrap it and rebuild it from the ground up.

That’s what Specialized has done with the Allez Elite for 2018. They’ve taken the bestselling 2017 version, probably one of the most popular bikes for those new to riding or moving their way up the ladder, and torn it down and rebuilt it.

The 2018 model is lighter, longer and taller, with improved all-round handling and a slightly less aggressive riding position. Such is the extent of the geometric changes that, compared with the 2017 model, the only two measurements they share are the seat tube length and the head angle.

Another big change is the Specialized FACT full carbon fork. Until now, the Allez has used carbon fork blades bonded to an aluminum steerer tube, but now we see a full carbon fork and steerer. As well as improving performance, this fork, weighing in at between 340g and 370g, adds up to a saving of several hundred grams. Combine this with some weight-saving tweaks to the frame and the bike is about 500 grams (1 lb) lighter than it was a year ago.

As of 2018, every frame in the Allez range, from entry level to the most expensive, will be identical, boasting Specialized’s E5 Premium Aluminum; this was previously reserved for frames at the top of the range.

Traditionally, the Allez has been presented as an entry-level race bike, but the reality was that most riders had absolutely no intention of racing it. Specialized have been clever enough to pick up on this, and have adjusted the frame accordingly with a more relaxed ride. Look closely at the high-tech FACT fork and you’ll see pannier lugs and mudguard eyelets – at the back end, it can also take a rear rack for commuting or even bikepacking. And whilst the standard tires are Espoir Sport’s Black Belt 25mm version, the frame has enough space to run 28mm boots quite comfortably.

The Shimano 105 11-speed shifters, 11/32 tooth cassette and derailleurs are, not surprisingly, clinically reliable and work perfectly.

However, the combination of the DT Swiss R460 wheels and Tektro Axis brakes is a disappointment – the wheels are heavy, truculent and unwilling to accelerate, and the brakes will give your hands and forearms a splendid workout as you vainly try to bring the bike to a halt.

On the plus side, this is the only blemish casting a shadow over a bicycle that otherwise belongs squarely in the sunshine.

The Praxis Alba 2D, 50/34-tooth chainring and chain integrate pretty well with the aforementioned 105 kit, and the combination of 34 teeth at the front coupled with the 32-tooth cog on the rear cassette means the bike will climb anything with a gradient less than the side of a building.

The Specialized Shallow Drop handlebars are very nice; as the name suggests, the shallow nature of the curve on the bars results in a much more relaxed riding style. Comfort is further improved with the addition of the Body Geometry Toupé Sport saddle.

Components are one thing, ride quality is another. Putting aside the distasteful nature of the brakes and wheels, this bike rides as well as any aluminum machine on the market. The carbon fork soaks up the bumps, the steering is precise and the handling is predictable and solid. Is it a lightning-fast race bike? Definitely not. But it is a very good commuter, an excellent recreational rig and represents the excellent value for money that Specialized claim is their benchmark. Don’t buy a road bike under $1500 without checking out the Specialized Allez Elite.

- Review by Marcus Speed.