Specialized launches the Aethos 2: still lighter

Specialized introduces the Aethos 2, a road bike that pushes the boundaries of lightness and performance. With a 595 g frame, it is the lightest ever designed by the brand. The objective was not only to reduce weight, but to create a fluid and intuitive riding experience, where the bike seems to disappear to make way for a perfect connection between the cyclist and the road.

Photos: ©Billy Ceusters/DR

A bike freed from conventions

The Aethos 2 was not designed for competition or to meet UCI standards, but to offer pure riding pleasure. Launched in late 2020, the original Aethos had already set a new benchmark as Specialized’s lightest production road bike, with a ride quality praised as exceptional. The Aethos 2 goes further by refining the geometry, integrating optimized Roval Alpinist components, and introducing subtle improvements to suit a wider range of cyclists.

Main features

Record weight: 595 g frame, Specialized’s lightest for a disc road bike, with a total weight of 5.9 kg (S-Works model).
Optimized geometry: based on decades of Body Geometry data, it offers a precise fit for increased ergonomics and comfort.
Tire clearance: compatible with tires up to 35 mm, for more versatility, comfort, and grip without added weight.
Roval Alpinist components : lighter, fully integrated cockpit and wheels for optimal aerodynamics and fluidity.
Unchanged ride: the same intuitive and responsive handling that has won over cyclists, with instant acceleration and downhill stability.

Flow State Design: a revolution in design

The Aethos 2 is the result of an innovative approach called Flow State Design. By studying the behavior of frames under stress, Specialized engineers analyzed how forces propagate through the structure. This data, combined with a vast base of mechanical tests and advanced supercomputer simulations, allowed them to sculpt tubes with optimized shapes. This process eliminates superfluous carbon layers, reducing weight while improving stiffness, durability, and ride quality.

Result:

A robust frame capable of withstanding extreme efforts, tested up to 2,377 watts applied more than 100,000 times.
Precise handling, inspired by the Tarmac, in a versatile package suitable for long mountain rides.
A fluid and responsive ride, where every movement feels natural, for a sense of unity between the cyclist and the bike.

Versatility and comfort without compromise

The Aethos 2 introduces tire clearance for up to 35 mm, allowing for better grip and access to varied terrain, while keeping the frame under 600 g. The refined geometry, based on over 100,000 Body Geometry fit studies, ensures an ergonomic fit to reduce fatigue and improve performance. Every detail, from the carbon layers to the Roval components, has been meticulously optimized to offer a fluid and elegant riding experience.

The models in the range

Aethos S-Works Di2: Shimano Dura-Ace-Di2 groupset (4iiii power meter), Roval Alpinist CLX III wheels, Roval Alpinist II cockpit, weight 6.05 kg (size 56): €13,499
Aethos S-Works AXS: SRAM Red AXS groupset (Quarq power meter), Roval Alpinist CLX III wheels, Roval Alpinist II cockpit, weight 5.98 kg (size 56): €13,499
Aethos Pro Di2: Shimano Ultegra Di2 groupset, Roval Alpinist CL II wheels, Roval Alpinist II cockpit, weight 6.73 kg (size 56): €8,499

Aethos Pro AXS: SRAM Force AXS groupset, Roval Alpinist CL II wheels, Roval Alpinist II cockpit, weight 6.71 kg (size 56): €8,499
Aethos Expert Di2: Shimano Ultegra Di2 groupset, Roval C38 wheels, Roval Alpinist cockpit, weight 7.12 kg (size 56): €6,299