Test 2016 Road bikes around 2000 euros: Specialized Allez DSW SL Expert - Specialized Allez DSW SL Expert on test

This also applies in part to the riding behaviour. The sporty, compact riding position and direct handling appeal to fans of fast cornering, although the bike does not appear as light-footed as the expensive carbon models. Apart from the weight, the Allez Expert cuts a fine figure on the test bench. The equipment is not lightweight, but it is standard for the class and, as you would expect from Specialized, well thought out down to the last detail. The carbon seat post with practical clamp and the Toupé saddle, which you would think would fit everyone, are examples of this. The PraxisWorks crankset is an interesting alternative to Ultegra, but doesn't shift quite as smoothly; the wheels are comparatively heavy.

ConclusionNot very light, but very stable frame. Sporty riding position, rides and steers manoeuvrable

Price 2,199 Euro
Weight 8.2 kilos
Info www.specialized.com
available in specialised shops

Weight frame/fork/steering bearing** 1,304/436/68 grammes
Frame sizes*** 49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 61 cm
Seat/top tube/head tube 520/570/169 mm
Stack/Reach/STR**** 574/396 mm/1.45

EQUIPMENT

Drive PraxisWorks Zayante M30 (52/36 t., Press-Fit)
Gearshift/brakes Shimano Ultegra
Wheels/tyres Specialized Axis 2.0/Specialized S-Works Gripton 24C

*The frame set accounts for 40 per cent and the equipment for 60 per cent of the overall grade. The grades are calculated with all decimal places up to the final grade; however, for the sake of clarity, all grades are given with rounded decimal places.
**Weighed weights.
***Manufacturer's specification, test size bold.
****Stack/Reach projected vertical/horizontal measurement from the centre of the bottom bracket to the top of the head tube; STR (Stack to Reach): 1.36 means a very stretched, 1.60 an upright riding position.

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