Specialized Crux vs Aethos: What You Need to Know

[@alde1759]

You the first one to compare the 2. Like all your contents on this channel.

[@outdoorbros_]

Thank you! I haven’t seen a direct comparison- that’s not to say there isn’t one out there. I wish there was a comparison like this when I was considering them…

[@luisamaya1768]

Never taught I would hear KO2 in a bike review 😄. Great review!

[@outdoorbros_]

Thank you and good ear! I wondered how many would get that reference.

[@tpawlicki]

Loved the comparison video. I also built a gravel frame with a road/offroad mode this year. Its so pleasurable to ride that I rarely grab my 6.7kg road bike. The road bike is only for short punchy rides where I plan on riding as fast as possible.

[@outdoorbros_]

Thanks! Glad you liked it. Which gravel frame did you get? They’re so versatile, it’s incredible.

[@shimona500]

Thank you so much for your videos and comparisons. Considered between Tarmac SL7, Crux and an Aethos, in a situation where I ride my old rim brake gravel bike 95% on the road with slicks. Went with Aethos, 105 Di2 Comp build. Can't wait for it to get here!

[@outdoorbros_]

Awesome, congrats!

[@shimona500]

@@outdoorbros_ Around 1000km on the aethos. As you mentioned, it rides incredible, even if comp model has bottom tier tyres and wheels. Will upgrade those, will keep aethos for training and start racing my old gravel bike!

[@Ultra1997DM.]

@@shimona500have you tried light gravel or trail on the Aethos with a switch of tyres ?

[@shimona500]

@@Ultra1997DM. no, as i have a cyclo bike for that. Ordered crux dsw frameset for bigger tyre gravel duty. Aethos is too beautiful handling for me to put it on gravel

[@rudyelizondo1935]

Good vid, let’s be honest… 99% of us common folk can only afford one bike. As far as wheel sets go, it’s lots cheaper to change out tires than expensive carbon wheel sets. We are a lazy bunch who just want to ride when we can. Time is of the essence especially from work, family, etc… just jump on any bike and go for your 2 hours!!!! I’m in between, I own a Cervelo R3 and a specialized diverge cheaper model. For long rides - ceverlo, for part gravel - Diverge 38 c tires - weight is 20 lbs. I usually jump on the diverge for quick rides. The R3 is for the MS 150 rides. Cheers and good luck!!!

[@outdoorbros_]

Great point! Swapping tires is so easy and so much more economical. How do you like the R3? I’ve owned an S3 and S5- loved them both.

[@Robot-rocks]

I had Crux initially with the same idea of swapping tires and ended up with two wheelsets. Turns out it's not that fast and you have to plan ahead what are you doing the next day. When you are on tubeless (which is a must IMO for offroad) it's even longer and messier

[@rudyelizondo1935]

@@outdoorbros_love the R3, very fast and comfy

[@rudyelizondo1935]

@@outdoorbros_I love the R3, rides great and very smooth too plus climbs great!!!

[@cypriano8763]

I believe the future is a gravel/endurance/ road bike. Or an Athos with 45 mm tire clearance. You get 2 set of rims, a gravel set and a road set. 1 bike and done.

[@outdoorbros_]

I tend to agree. It seems like a lot of the bikes are hard to differentiate.

[@samchuck007]

Thanks for the great video. Made up my mind, its a Crux for me for a one bike solution at my vacation home. My home use Roubaix seems like a nice complement.

[@outdoorbros_]

Glad you enjoyed it. Crux is a solid, second bike- it can just about do it all.

[@bobtilton3024]

I know this is a Aethos to Crux comparison but it is going to be interesting to see how the Crux relates to the Diverge in regards to Specialized ambassadors switching over. Already starting to see the switch - Cameron Mason, Sara Sturm, Lael Wilcox (with front suspension). Wondering if others will make the switch - Laurens ten Dam, Sarah Swallow, Erik Nohlin, Ian Boswell, others. 2022 should be interesting for the Crux. Solid video BTW!!!

[@outdoorbros_]

Thank you! I’m intrigued by that as well. For those riders, I can’t imagine them NOT riding the Crux (assuming no contractual obligations). It’s simply a faster bike, well-suited for their style of racing.

[@bobtilton3024]

@@outdoorbros_ Totally! it’s going to be interesting - faster vs “more comfort”.

[@thisisbenji90]

Also worthwhile to take what the sponsored riders are riding with a massive grain of salt.

[@ciprian7]

excellent content, very helpful and informativ

[@outdoorbros_]

Thanks! This was a highly requested video- glad it provided some clarity.

[@nicolimchoc2210]

Thanks for this brother! A good review for both and very enlightening! Now, just have to wait for my lbs to have the crux 😂

[@outdoorbros_]

Hahaha, hope it arrives soon! They’re so hard to come by. I emailed my shop the day it came out. Had it waited, who knows how long it could have been.

[@bravopapa6415]

Completely agree w/ everything you said. Truly on the money. I have left you comments in the past.. I have both bikes.. absolutely love them. If i didnt have the luxury to having both bikes. Or if had the crux first. Might not have the Aethos. But its nice having both. While @ home One ready for road, & one ready for grAvel.. but for travel its the crux all the way.. just put the aethos in the work stand and grab its wheels. And away weeee go.. Great Video..

[@outdoorbros_]

Thank you! I’m anxious to travel with the crux… just need the snow to melt :)

[@Yaharrrr]

Thank you so much for your efforts and time spent.

[@jabig]

Thank you for this comparison!

[@outdoorbros_]

You are welcome! Looking forward to your upcoming trip to the states!

[@jazzfan7491]

Writing this in late April 2024. Will be curious to see if Giant challenges this with a light gravel bike.

[@outdoorbros_]

I’d love to see it. There’s a market for it.

[@iansmith5601]

Great commentary. Makes so much sense.

[@outdoorbros_]

Thanks Ian!

[@murstoeger]

Thank you for that great video, I really enjoyed it. What do you think of the Specialized Roubaix (I'm looking into the comp sram rival etap vs the Canyon Endurace...)?

[@outdoorbros_]

I like it! Especially if you can find a team edition.

[@alejandrogonzalez93-d]

Great content. I’ve seen like 4 of your videos in a row, KZbin just redirected me knowing these two are kind of my dream bikes, and in the same coloro/build you have em. I have been using a gravel bike as a do it all for more than a year and they do pretty well. I bought a road bike again (TCR) like a month ago and there’s obviously a difference, but gravel bikes work for that function in an amateur level as well with a second wheel set. Nonetheless, either a Crux or an Aethos will be mine someday.

[@outdoorbros_]

What's up, Alejandro? Thank you- sounds like the algorithm got ya! You're spot-on... for normal folks, a "fast" gravel bike can function just fine as a do it all bike.

[@HKRoad]

Excellent video thanks

[@aaronedgeart]

Right on, well spelled out!

[@outdoorbros_]

Thank you!

[@jasocaz]

Solid videos dude. Have you ever owned a Ti gravel bike? Wondering how a fast carbon bike like the Crux compares to something like a Moots.

[@AndrewTocco]

Amazing review. Do you happen to have a link to the rear cassette you uograded too? I cant find it online.

[@emauric]

hello from Sweden, great videos, like a lot your content, thanks ! question aside, I am curious on what pedals do you use with the Crux and Aethos ?

[@outdoorbros_]

Hell from California! Shimano XTR on the Crux, Dura Ace on the Aethos.

[@emauric]

@@outdoorbros_ noted thanks!!

[@williamcovey4162]

No offense, but after watching the video I was asking myself: 'Does this guy have some affiliation with Specialized?' Yes, I realize the video is a comparison of 2 Specialized products, but hardly is heard a discouraging word about either one-except maybe the cost. $12.000!! For a bicycle!?

[@outdoorbros_]

Should I throw in a $12,000 Trek or Cervelo?

[@magicsork657]

Very interesting video. Question? Who is more confortable bike on road with same tyres?

[@outdoorbros_]

After my experience over the last few days, I’d say Aethos.

[@fredrikbreyer4907]

Hi guys, love the video and it gave me a lot of answers. But I am a u23 cyclocross rider who is looking to change out two cx bikes and I´m wondering if i could buy a Crux and a Aethos, and use the Aethos for road races and road rides, yet stil have if in the pit with 33mm(31mm) cx tires for cx races? or if you would rather recommend having two Crux and building one of them more road specific for road races?

[@0xjdion]

Hey man! Love the videos. You sold me on the Crux. I'm ready to pull the trigger, but the only model available is the Comp in my area. All models are all the same frame. I think I will just take it and upgrade it. What do you think? Should I wait 1 year or 2 year to get the Pro? Thanks

[@outdoorbros_]

I’d go with whatever is going to get you out and having fun. No sense in waiting a year or two for the bike, in my opinion. Thankfully, the crux is super understated so your can’t tell a huge difference based on looks along.

[@pmcqueen]

Were you the same size on the Aethos compared to the Crux? I'm on a 54 Aethos, looking at the geo charts it looks like a 52 Crux is a closer fit than the 54.

[@outdoorbros_]

I was- all of my bikes are size 56.

[@davidpsalm1948]

Thanks for the video! I am mainly a roadie but like to do some gravel (not backpacking), but you say you would not recommend the Aethos on gravel. Main reason?. You mentioned the Aethos handling is great but how is the handling of the Crux on big mountain descents (road)? After your cruz video I thought for sure the Crux would be the jack of all trades but after your comparison video of the two I am not sure. I want this to be a travel bike that can do multi terrain but also have the confidence with long descents. Any advice? Thanks again!

[@outdoorbros_]

I think the Crux is plenty confident on descents. It’s not as good as a tarmac or an Aethos, but it can hold its own. Maybe it’s the lack of tire clearance, but I don’t think the Aethos is suited for anything beyond very light gravel, in the same way the tarmac isn’t suited for anything more than very light gravel.

[@davidhaase3179]

@outdoorbros I agree with this. For anything bigger than light gravel, I would want to run 38s, and my Aethos frame handles 35mm, but not 38. If you're looking to ride anything more than light gravel on a regular basis, go with the Crux. But if you primarily ride on pavement, I can't imagine a better bike than the Aethos.

[@BenZCardiff]

What’s the biggest tire you’ve tried on the Aethos? I’ve heard you can get a 36mm tire squeezed in the back but it’s tight. I’ve got a 33.5mm tire in now and it appears there is room for a 36-38mm with 3ish mm to spare based on my measurements.

[@outdoorbros_]

I’ve heard 35mm is a safe max, maybe 36mm, depending on the wheel. I’ll try to mount a larger tire soon and let you know!

[@cesrn5201]

@@outdoorbros_ any updates on mounting the bigger tires on the aethos? What inner width wheels did you use?

[@davidhaase3179]

@Cés RN I run tubeless 32s on my Aethos. Wheels are Enve 4.5 AR with internal diameter of 25mm, which results in my 32s measuring out to 35mm with a Park Tools digital caliper. And they fit comfortably. But there's no way a 35mm tire would fit if you're running an Enve AR wheelset with 25mm internal diameter, because they would likely measure out to 38s. So as usual, it boils down not just to the tire size, but also to the internal diameter of your wheelset. I'm pleasantly surprised that I can effectively run 35mm on my Aethos. Love love love this bike.

[@filsterdude]

@@davidhaase3179 happen to try out any gravel tires on it? wondering if a 34c gravel tire would squeeze in with my Roval Apinists, but might be too chicken to use these on gravel.

[@lamarkbrim]

Great video. I believe that you mentioned that the Cervelo Aspero was more of a bike pack gravel bike but this is incorrect. There are no fender or fork mounts on it. The Aspero is meant to go fast as the Crux. The Aspero does have a slightly longer wheelbase than my (3) S-Works Tarmac, Venge, and Roubaix. I’m not sure about the wheelbase of the Crux compared to the 3 bikes mentioned. Can you share this comparison? Thanks, again great video as you got me now thinking about an Aethos!

[@outdoorbros_]

Thank you! Maybe it’s not a bike packing bike- you’re probably right. Based on my experience, I wouldn’t put the Aspero in the same category of the Upper and Crux. Maybe the Aspero 5, but the not the traditional Aspero. I’d check 99spokes.com/ for proper comparisons- it’s an amazing resource.

[@garygumnut4803]

Hey! The long wait is nearing an end. My lbs are getting their stock in April🤯 for a proportion perspective, what is your saddle height-BB to top of saddle?

[@outdoorbros_]

Yes! Finally! I'll have to measure it and let you know. Maybe 30" in freedom units.

[@LucaPS3]

What a great comparison! For a 6’1” height guy with long inseam (35”), would you suggest a size 58 Crux? The page site says 58 for sure, but each bike fits different, so maybe you can give a perspective? Thanks for helping in the choice!

[@outdoorbros_]

Thanks! I think a 58 is probably best or a 56 with a REALLY tall saddle height. I'm 6'0 with a 32" inseam and the 56 is just right.

[@jbandt]

This was interesting. Wondering your thoughts on crux vs diverge. Like at what point or what conditions would you suggest the diverge over the crux?

[@outdoorbros_]

I’d say when things get really chunky, you’re going to want the Diverge and its more slack geometry. The beauty of the Crux is the massive tire clearance, allowing you to adjust tire and tread based on what you’re riding.

[@rockylim735]

Curious about the new crux and the first gen diverge.... seems very similar... did you get a chanve to ride the 1st gen diverge?

[@outdoorbros_]

Unfortunately, I didn’t. I had the Cervelo Aspero (briefly), then the UPPER and straight into the Crux.

[@jshwlff]

Aethos + Crux + X = Divorce. Solve for X.

[@outdoorbros_]

This is sage math here. This should be on a t-shirt.

[@rudyelizondo1935]

We’ll man, if you have the million dollars, then no problem!!! Just remember to buy Her nice birthday gifts and Christmas gifts along with dinners and help in the kitchen etc… in other words play the game bro and you can have fun!!!

[@outdoorbros_]

@@rudyelizondo1935 😂😂😂

[@caet49]

@@rudyelizondo1935 Words of wisdom right here on KZbin - h should have known 😂😂😂

[@qzrnuiqntp]

Get it, way too easy. X = in-laws

[@garygumnut4803]

Hey, still loving the crux videos. Next best thing until stock is available. Quick one what makes the Aspero more sluggish than the Crux? I’m still torn between the 2. Aspero5 is available now, Crux not. I thought the Aspero might be stiffer and more Aero..more bias to road.

[@outdoorbros_]

My non-expert opinion is that it feels more sluggish because it has more slack geometry. It’s definitely not as snappy as the crux. The Aspero 5 may be more in line with the crux.

[@hanibanani9966]

I ride an Open UP setup (Gravel: Zipp 303s, G-One R/ Road: DT-Swiss ERC 1400, Continental 5000 TL / Force AXS eTab) and I am thinking about switching to a Crux. How big would you describe the difference between the Crux and Open? Is it worth switching, or are they both so similar that it's hardly worth switching?

[@outdoorbros_]

Hey Hani, I think you’d find the Crux is a bit lighter, more nimble and you gain a bit of tire clearance. I did 105 miles on the crux yesterday, all road and it was phenomenal. That being said, the UP is awesome and if the previously mentioned points aren’t a priority, it may not be worth the extra $$$.

[@jonathandubel4829]

Well…..I have had an S-works crux for about 5 weeks now and it’s incredible! Amazingly I had a crack in a 3 year old S-works crux that I had replaced with a brand new one yesterday so I currently own two 2022 S-works crux’s. One built I ride and the other is a frame in the box. I sold it in less than 24 hours but had briefly thought about building it up as a road version due to your videos but think I will just purchase an Aethos thanks to your guidance 👍 Quick question. On the Crux I have it 1x but would possibly like to go 2x but in Shimano. They only say GRX compatible and no road cranks are compatible. Is that due to chainring clearance? I could have sworn I saw someone post they had a 50/34 dub Quarq setup? Thank you! Love your videos

[@outdoorbros_]

Thanks for the feedback! I asked this question at Sea Otter, but don’t remember why it was GRX only- could be spacing of some sort. The 2x SRAM is a pretty tight fit as it is.

[@jonathandubel4829]

Hey no problem and I appreciate the response. I solved the problem and just bought an Aethos 👍

[@darklyte24]

My first gravel bike, Diverge Expert 2021 grx di2. Boat anchor dt swiss 540 wheels, about 22.8ish lbs in a 52cm. I changed out to a 1200 gram carbon wheelset and garbaruk 11-46t now 19.8 lbs.. its better but still heavy. im looking at the pro crux, at 16.5 lbs its like my sl6.

[@outdoorbros_]

Pro of expert would be amazing and a great compliment to the SL6.

[@evanhunterblbier]

I also have both which have just been bought in the last few months. Honestly if I would have known the crux was coming I may have waited. Once I saw it, I had to have it. Just also swapped it to 2x AXS as well and it’s perfect. How are you liking the 303s? Do they feel like budget wheels or feel close to the higher end wheels?

[@outdoorbros_]

I hear ya… they’re both awesome bikes. The 303S wheels are good. They’re definitely heavier, but I think they’re one of the best in the $1300-$1500 range.

[@digitalorangedotcom]

As always, great material.

[@outdoorbros_]

Thanks Mike!

[@MarcEstrella]

Out of curiosity are both the same size , I looked at geometry charts and noticed they are a tad different

[@aaron___6014]

What is with weighing a bike and not including pedals? Hell, why not remove the saddle and seat post too to make it really hard to ride.

[@outdoorbros_]

Just a preference.

[@jjwa5410]

Worried about "played out" and riding a specialized is...a strong irony.

[@outdoorbros_]

I know, I’ll be the first to admit the hypocrisy in that statement.

[@icking86]

How would you compare the Aspero to the crux? I have an aspero 5 and it’s really aggressive and fast but first descend as well on gravel as I already wiped out twice on it (given I’m also new to gravel). Thanks!

[@outdoorbros_]

What's up, Italo? I think the original Aspero has a more relaxed geometry suited for more "technical" descents vs. the Crux. I would put the Crux more in line with the Aspero 5- built for going fast, not so much for tackling incredibly technical terrain. FWIW, I think the Aspero 5 is rad!

[@albertocastori7037]

ottima recensione. complimenti. forse con una Aethos sarebbe più indicata una diverge per differenziare maggiormente le due bici.

[@outdoorbros_]

Grazie! Sono d'accordo sul fatto che la Diverge possa essere l'opzione migliore, tuttavia le vedo come bici molto diverse, nonostante altre recensioni le mettano così vicine tra loro. Abbi cura di te in Italia!

[@Robot-rocks]

I had a very similar idea about doing it all groad bike (Crux) and road since 5-6 years ago. So first I had Crux 2015 and then got Tarmac SL6. Crux & SL6 are still great but I kinda want to upgrade. Would you say it worse upgrading from SL6 to Aethos? For some reason SL7 is less compelling to me

[@outdoorbros_]

I’d say that if you’re on the SL6, there isn’t a huge need to go to the Aethos. It’ll be DIFFERENT, but hard to say it’ll be BETTER.

[@jimc5696]

Curious what size frame you went with - any thoughts on fit as you switched from UPPER, etc. I normally ride a 56 but seems they stretched the front center / reach a bit so I may size down to a 54 - curious what your experience has been. Thanks !

[@outdoorbros_]

What’s up, Jim? I was on a large open upper frame and the 56 Crux seems slightly smaller. Could you stick to a 56 and use a shorter stem?

[@davidhaase3179]

Thanks for posting such a thorough review. Just watched your Aethos vs SL7 video too. We have similar taste and opinions in bikes. I've been very fortunate to ride some great bikes (Emonda SLR9, Open UPPER, Colnago C64, Tarmac SL7) and the Aethos is hands down my favorite of the bunch. It does EVERYTHING exceptionally well, except aero. But aero has never made me smile on a bike. The way the Aethos climbs, descends, accelerates, and handles just blows me away, then you add a threaded BB, the combination of light yet stiff, and clearance for 32 mm tires (actually, I run tubeless 32 mm tires on Enve 4.5 AR with internal diameter of 25mm, and they measure 35mm yet still have sufficient clearance on the Aethos frame). For the riding I do, I can't imagine loving a bike more than the Aethos.

[@0xjdion]

@@outdoorbros_ hi what is your height? I’m undecided between the 54 and 56. I’m 178cm so 5’10. I have long legs and short torso. From Specialized I’m a 56 but the geometry seems bigger than my Super Six evo frame which Cannondale recommend a 54. Thanks

[@outdoorbros_]

@@0xjdion what’s up, Jon? Size 56 in crux, tarmac and Aethos. Feels just right at 6’0.

[@PatYongpradit]

I've watched all your bike review videos and watched Bicycling Mag's webinar on the Crux/Aethos. I've decided that the Crux as one bike to rule them all doesn't work for me. Sure if I could only afford one bike, then Crux is fine. But I want more from my road bike, so which bike to pair with a Crux (Aethos or SL7) is the decision. Looking forward to next video.

[@outdoorbros_]

So many thoughts here. The Aethos and SL7 are both so good. I need to give this a bit more thought…

[@nochancecw]

Two bikes is a must just for gearing alone. I would love to see crux setup with a different fork with bolt holes and setup to pack or ride CX fast. Having a do it all fast road to gravel, CX style, bike pack off road bike is the true challenge. Check out the new Winspace G2, really interesting design and all around concept.

[@outdoorbros_]

Now that would be a true do-it-all bike!

[@juanfersan]

Thanks for doing this; still dont know what to do :) haha

[@outdoorbros_]

You’re welcome! Depends on your riding style. If in doubt, go with the Crux.

[@ARCENUNES]

What size are you using ?

[@outdoorbros_]

56 across Aethos, Crux and SL7

[@nathancouse3596]

How tall are you by any chance ? In 5'9 on the fence of a aethos in a 54 or 56 .. ik your on a 56

[@outdoorbros_]

6’0 here. 56 feels great.

[@sol305]

I would have kept my aero bike. Especially the venge disc. That bike feels like a jet.

[@outdoorbros_]

That bike was so dang fast and stiff. Seriously a rocket.

[@ianharvey4201]

the real question is where can i buy a crux 🤠

[@outdoorbros_]

Seriously… 2022 supply is a struggle.

[@EightSixx]

Crux for sure

[@outdoorbros_]

Yessir!

[@user-nu5fx6en9h]

How about roubaix

[@outdoorbros_]

Also a contender. If you can find a Roubaix team edition, even better.

[@benjaminknudsen1320]

This is a good example why I always will choose shimano on a road bike. My SCOTT ADDICT RC Pro (dura ace di2) with dt swiss arc 1400 62 mm and quarq dfour the weight is 7.400 kg with pedals. With my Rebel Royal Pro 35 mm wheels, the weight with pedals is 6.945 kg.

[@outdoorbros_]

No doubt, it’s lighter. I also think it has a cleaner look. The new 12 speed DA is 🔥🔥🔥

[@stevenkates4876]

ENVE Melee vs Aethos please

[@outdoorbros_]

I did one of these a few weeks back. Here ya go- kzbin.info/www/bejne/l2jHYmChqbdpo7c

[@chiefrocker12]

Great Video Chris. I fall into the roadie category , and the Aethos has been on my radar for a while. Not sure if there is a big difference between the 12R & 10R frameset, aside from weight, but curious to know if you have any feedback, as I am looking to build ideally the 10R (more aligned with my budget) at around 7.4kg... Keep up the great content.

[@outdoorbros_]

What’s up, Ravin? I’ve not ridden 10R, so it’s tough to say. For most of us, I’m not sure we’d notice a huge difference. Could also depend on which bike you’re on now… if you were to go from a 12R Venge (super stiff) to a 10R Aethos, you’d probably notice a difference. Really though, if your budget is 10R, that’s still such a great frame- you’ll be stoked.

[@chiefrocker12]

@@outdoorbros_ actually been riding the Allez sprint disc , built up with sram force AXS and Carbon wheels on specialized turbo cottons.... Very agile and stiff, looking for something more aligned with climbing. Agree with your comments... Cheers

[@simonfarr8670]

I might have some input! I have a 10R frameset built up to 6.85kg (15.1lbs) with cages/pedals. frame weight came in at 800g (100g heavier than advertised), but it is a FANTASTIC handling bike in the twisty mountain roads of NC. rough roads are no problem, and it handles so well that the region’s scariest descents are a breeze.

[@chiefrocker12]

@@simonfarr8670 thank you Simon for your input...may just pull trigger on a 10r,

[@sgr2222]

@@simonfarr8670 curious to hear what your build is

[@williamcovey4162]

Scroll to 10:40 and tell me if you need a bike that costs this much.

[@outdoorbros_]

Do any of us need bikes that cost this much? Unlikely.

[@nick.j2772]

BTW tan walls are out in 2022

[@outdoorbros_]

Noted.

[@danielschinagl5960]

just get a tarmac and a diverge then

[@jerillthorpe1270]

Bone stock $13,000 bike

[@astrayagrarian]

Both awful bikes from a shitty brand with shitty business practices…