HazeT

I was considering building a new bike using the new frameset:
Specialized Bicycle Components

If you built one, how did you like it? Also is there a difference between this frameset and and the frame/fork on the Allez DSW Elite? They are about $300 difference and if it's the same frame I may consider buying the whole bike and sell the parts I don't want.

MCODave

Just to be clear up front, I have not built or ridden that frame. But I have researched it and it is one of the main contenders for my next bike.

I am fairly sure the frame is not the same as on the Allez DSW Elite. But I think it is the same on the $1550 Allex DSW SL Comp. So if you are comparing building up the bare frame to the cheapest pre-built bike, I think that is the one to compare.

nemeseri

This is the new 2016 Allez I think, so I'd be surprised to see anyone with real experience. I own a 2015 Smartweld frameset and I wrote a short review of it here: https://www.bikeforums.net/road-cycli...smartweld.html

By looking at it, it seems to be a slightly revised version of the 2015 Smartweld frameset. It's cheaper and it might be lighter a bit. On the other hand I just can't understand how Specialized can release a frameset with clamp on derailliour hanger in 2016. I'll be shocked if it turns out to be lighter than the new CAAD12.

rms13

As evidence by the Sprint frame, they clearly believe the SRAM 1x groups are going to take off and front derailleurs will be a thing of the past

nemeseri

Tarmac has a screwed in hanger what's still a better (and lighter) option than clamp on. Also I get the SRAM 1x on the Sprint frame but not on the standard Allez. I don't think anyone would go with 1x for standard road. (For crits? Yes. But that's covered by the sprint frame)