Test ride: New Specialized Diverge with full suspension

Click through: This is the Specialised Diverge STR

The development department from Morgan Hill cannot be accused of a lack of innovative spirit. The Americans spent around five years tinkering with their gravel innovation, or more precisely the semi-integrated suspension system at the rear. "It was literally blood, sweat, tears and overtime - peppered with nagging doubts as to whether the technology would ever make it across the finish line," says chief developer Luc Callahan.

Specialised Diverge STR: Hydraulic shock and framepost

The technology consists of a hydraulic damper that is connected to a so-called frame post inside the seat tube on the Specialized Diverge STR. This is designed to absorb shocks without the rider having to change their riding position. The system allows up to 30 millimetres of suspension travel, which can be adjusted depending on weight, size or surface. This can be done while riding using a three-stage dial on the shock or in the workshop by changing the frame post. Two of these carbon tubes are included in the scope of delivery and Specialized offers a total of nine degrees of hardness.

Impressive spring comfort

The concept works - and how. During an initial test ride over gravel and forest paths, the Specialized was unperturbed by nothing. Stones, branches and potholes are swallowed effortlessly. Hardly any vibrations can be felt in the saddle. In combination with the 42 millimetre wide standard tyres, almost everything that gets in the way of the Diverge STR is smoothed out. The frame geometry is familiar from the previous Diverge - which Specialized will continue to offer. The riding position is relatively relaxed. A small compartment in the down tube can be used to store a spare tube and tools.

• More about gravel bikes

Expensive technology: Specialised Diverge STR from 7500 euros

However, the high weight and the prices put pressure on the euphoria brakes: Our Diverge STR Expert (size 56) with MTB drivetrain from SRAM (GX Eagle, 1x12; 30, 11-50 teeth) weighs 9.5 kilos and costs as much as 7500 euros. Although the Pro and S-Works versions are up to a kilo lighter, they are also extremely expensive at prices of €9500 and €15000.