2021 Specialized Diverge Sport Carbon // 1000 Mile Update

Find out how the 2021 Specialized Diverge Sport Carbon has been holding up after 1000 miles of mixed terrain dad-shredding. This update video includes some changes and upgrades I’ve made, as well as future plans for the bike. See what has (and hasn’t) been working out for me as I discuss the Specialized Future Shock, the Hunt 35 gravel wheels, Panaracer Gravel King tire options, a Shimano GRX warranty story, and the Ritchey Beacon gravel handlebars.
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Additional videos referenced in this video:
2021 Specialized Diverge Sport Carbon // 500 Mile Review:
• 2021 Specialized Diver...
2021 Specialized Diverge // 7 Things You Should Know:
• 2021 Specialized Diver...
Specialized Diverge // HUNT Carbon Wheels:
• Specialized Diverge | ...
1x vs 2x For Gravel Bikes // The Answer!!:
• 1x vs 2x Drivetrains F...
Thanks for watching and subscribing!!

[@framboise5326]

I really appreciate your thorough review of your custom build.. you also talk at a rate that allows me to digest the information being received. Thank you!

[@johnfeezer]

I recently bought this bike and I must say it is incredible.

[@PaulBeiser]

Love how honest you have been - tires, bars, etc - on all of these reviews. I look forward to your continuing updates on all you learn. Thanks so much!

[@TheBikeSauce]

So kind! Thanks, will stay the course.

[@jeffreyrule8143]

Thanks for your review.

[@gtstraw]

I love your , thorough, well presented,, information rich and well organized videos. Thanks.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Too kind!

[@chrisguadalupe9982]

I'm in the market for a gravel bike and have found your review of the Diverge most rewarding, especially since it is one of three gravel bikes I've been looking to purchase. Great and thoughtful review! I look forward to exploring other vids of yours, as well as future thoughts on the Diverge. For now, I'm waiting for shops to get more in stock to test ride it before pulling the trigger. Thanks again!

[@TheBikeSauce]

Thanks for the great feedback. More Diverge-centric videos are certainly in the works.

[@mevszach]

Super helpful review! As someone else put it: Love your expertise & calm!

[@landebrian]

I appreciate your thoughtful reviews. I've been on the fence about what kind of gravel bike to buy. However after watching your reviews, I finally purchased a diverge sport. Keep up the good work.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Nice! Congrats!

[@diwelle4253]

thanks a lot! I wait for my diverge sport cabon, the delivery is on February 21. Your input is great for me and i can't wait to get my bike. My english is not so good, your clear communication helps to follow you very well. This is my first english language video that i comment and also give a like. Keep it up!

[@TheBikeSauce]

Wow thanks! Your English seems fine to me! February seems far, but you will have your new bike soon!

[@oldanslo]

Thanks for your series of videos on this bike. I had been dithering around about getting a gravel bike and you answered a number of questions about this model. I picked mine up this afternoon!

[@TheBikeSauce]

Fantastic! Surprised you found one in store! Others have been waiting and waiting.

[@oldanslo]

@@TheBikeSauce Surprisingly, they had both a 54 and 56 in stock for me to try for size. Picked the larger for a more road bike fit. Now time for upgrades. Can't ride without a power meter.

[@roloenweston1]

This is the most comprehensive, useful and throughout review I have seen on the Diverge, I only wished this guy review the Diverge Pro Carbon which is the one I've ordered--and have to wait until January to get it

[@TheBikeSauce]

I'd be glad to if Spesh would send me one! 😆

[@seshreddy8616]

Thanks a lot. It's very useful. I've been researching a lot which bike to buy and I'd want a bike 70% tarmac and 30% gravel. I bought diverge base carbon and replaced hunt wheels HUNT 48 Limitless Aero Disc Wheelset and Schwalbe G-One Allround 700c (35/38mm) & 650b (1.5") Tubeless Gravel Tyres (Pair) . It's so good and enjoying every ride. I love the hunt wheels free hub sound. Thanks for your valuable information.

[@londonlionel]

Excellent review! Very thorough and detailed.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Thanks for watching!

[@FernandoWi]

agreed

[@tbegley7534]

Love your expertise & calm. Catch every video you post. I can’t find this bike anywhere in my size (like everyone else) but have found a 2020 Diverge at a decent price in very good condition. While I’d prefer the newer Diverge I wonder if availability trumps differences/improvements. Or are the improvements worth waiting for? Grateful for any advice.

[@towerrunner496]

Very nice review, well done!

[@TheBikeSauce]

Thanks for watching!

[@esjrgoo]

Awesome shirt! Alameda!! Great review too!

[@TheBikeSauce]

Haha my hometown! Thx

[@bikesense3867]

Great video. Regarding the flared hoods - try moving them up a touch so that they’re a bit steeper, which should rotate them inwards as well due to the lower flare angle near the tops. The combined effect should improve palm comfort and make the levers easier to access from the hoods. I would also argue that the longitudinal section of your tops are pointing slightly down, so you may want to also experiment with rolling the entire bar up a few degrees (in isolation or combined with adjusting the hoods). That should be your first step since it doesn’t require re-taping the bar. These changes may or may not work for you, but the ideal setup for me is horizontal tops with hoods that angle up slightly in line with a neutral wrist angle, which in addition to spreading the load more evenly across my palms also reduces strain on my wrists.

[@maldenwarren1]

Great vid! Thks for sharing.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Appreciate it!

[@toniszkortisz]

Thanks your video🤘

[@TheBikeSauce]

Thx for watching!

[@gianpaologliori3604]

Very helpful thanks! I have an aluminium Diverge but a lot of this is relevant to me as well.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Very nice! Fantastic bike!

[@Scott-ep5kr]

Good to see a fellow flooper!

[@TheBikeSauce]

See you out there!

[@alphonsusho8962]

As a college student, this is gonna be my first investment in the biking hobby! Currently been doing 50 mile trips on a hardtail($400) which obviously isn't the best bike to do especially since I ride on highway. Plan on buying the Diverge Sport Carbon in a month and can't wait. I do plan however on riding mainly roads for now, given where I normally bike are full of towns and the city

[@TheBikeSauce]

Nice! 50 mi rides on a hardtail mtb, woah! You're gonna be flying on your new Diverge!

[@iamlyam79]

Hear, hear on no dropper post! I agree that if I need a dropper post, I'll bring my perfectly capable 27.5+ HT trail bike with a perfectly good dropper post and 120mm front fork. I'm in the same boat as you on eliminating my road bike and replacing it with a gravel bike. I splurged on the frame and ordered Litespeed's new Watia Ti Gravel bike. I'm saving up my pennies to build a super light road wheelset or maybe just go with Hunt Aerolight. Great videos by the way. Cheers mate!

[@TheBikeSauce]

Thanks! Solid plan for building up your quiver.

[@steveduong02]

Great update! I am 5 feet 5 and I am riding a size 49. Funny thing is, Specialized website think I should fit a 44cm. I love this bike at a 49cm, it fits perfect for me. I swapped out the tires for a pair of Schwable One clincher 700c x 30mm slick for road and packed gravel trail. These tyres are faster and more comfortable on both riding conditions. Love this bike.!

[@TheBikeSauce]

Awesome! Congrats! Yea, sizing is very personal and a sizing chart can only get you so far. Finishing kit and adjustments have a ton to do with overall fit.

[@industryrule-4080]

Nice review man! Your delivery is easy to listen to. Are you using a prompter?

[@TheBikeSauce]

Thx! Yea I use a prompter.. not cool enough to wing it.

[@sarahc2201]

Enjoyed all of your videos due to how detailed you are. Got a diverge e5 comp b/c of your channel. Which bike computer do you have? Maybe a future video you could review that? Keep it up!

[@TheBikeSauce]

Great to hear! Hope you're enjoying the bike. I've been using the Garmin Edge 510 for about 5 years now. It's a GPS head unit and integrates well with Strava and other fitness apps over bluetooth. Great idea for a video, thanks!

[@donbrabants3509]

Very good review. I have a 2021 Diverge and agree is one of the best drop bar bikes I have owned. No dropper post. Save that for my Stumpy. Thanks!

[@TheBikeSauce]

Nice! Fully on the Spesh train I see.

[@donbrabants3509]

@@TheBikeSauce yep, a big fan of Spesh. My road bike is a Tarmac S-Works. Sold my Roubaix to buy the Diverge.

[@osint6372]

@@donbrabants3509 I was thinking the same...lol....But my Roubaix sport is used for my Triathlon rides......Still an option though....

[@FernandoWi]

your video ar grate. congrats

[@TheBikeSauce]

Thanks!

[@Pleasure_Baron]

Thanks for the great content. I just picked up one of these used. Can't wait. I'm wondering what you would recommend for wheels and handlebars since you made this video... I'm not really a gear guy and rely on solid recs! Last thing, what the heck are the two screws behind the handlebars on the top tube for?

[@TheBikeSauce]

Congrats! Can’t go wrong with Hunt alloys and Ritchey venturemax bars. The bolts are for a direct-mount top tube bag

[@mediocrecyclist]

Got the same bike and absolutely love it. Took me time to warm up to and wished I had gotten a proper road bike at first, but now this bike has stolen my heart. The bike feels so planted without it feeling sluggish. Want to pickup the carbon wheels to setup a road friendly wheel set... but can’t get my self to bite the bullet when it seems the price of the wheels is the down payment on an actual road bike. Haha

[@TheBikeSauce]

Ha, yea wheels aren't the cheapest upgrade, but they make a huge difference. You don't have to go carbon either. Upgrading to some nice alloy disc wheels will still be a massive upgrade from the stock G540s.

[@mediocrecyclist]

@@TheBikeSauce you have any suggestions on a good alloy wheel set? I’m looking for something light to pair with my gravel king slick 35mm. Would love them to be tubless

[@TheBikeSauce]

@@mediocrecyclist Well, I'm clearly biased, but HUNT offers a great selection of alloy gravel disc wheels. Lots of options starting from $400. Some may say you're paying too much for their branding, but they offer a solid wheel with great customer service. us.huntbikewheels.com/collections/gravel-wheels

[@tombola4046]

I have a 2021 Base carbon as availability on all models was so bad! I’m actually glad I did as with money saved I’ve upgraded wheels to new Zipp 303s, 42 tyres and Roval seat post. Absolutely love the bike and my first 1x geared bike! Love it

[@TheBikeSauce]

mmmmmm... Ziiiiiipp (drool). Nice! Honestly, the bike probably rides better with those wheels and tires than the higher end models in their stock form.

[@tombola4046]

@@TheBikeSauce i have a Roubaix running Roval CL50s and can say hands down the Diverge rides so sweet! Bought the Diverge as my winter bike but haven’t used my Roubaix in nearly a month now 😬

[@TheBikeSauce]

Dude, baller! As mentioned, I sold my Roubaix SL4 to purchase the diverge. No regrets!

[@HkFinn83]

Thanks for the thoughts regarding the flared bars...I haven’t used them and just can’t get my head round how my hands are supposed to access the levers properly. I may need to upgrade to bigger hands 😂

[@TheBikeSauce]

Ha! Might be tough

[@theunit5939]

Damn in 6'2" 260 lbs hope the 58 one will work for me 4 weeks away cant wait to take it out

[@norcalchrismeister]

I'm also 6'2.5" and my local shop has an Expert in 58. I'm hoping it's comfortable and the right size when I try it out.

[@francoisrdt]

Great review, man! RE: handlebar. I was unable to source the Beacon bars in time here in Canada so I opted for a set of Cowchippers (carbon) to outfit to my new gravelbike. The 24 degrees flare works well with the upper part of the GRX shifters FYI. Also RE: Dropper. The Norco Search XR C2 I bought came stock with a dropper, which I was *very* unsure about. Long story short: about a thousand miles in, I’m sold. I had the same thoughts as you, but in practice, it’s just too darn convenient :) I do ride a lot of singletrack tho! Cheers.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Heard good things about the cow chipper, and there’s another salsa bar that’s bovine-related right? Cow something.. Interesting to hear about the dropper, though I don’t need anymore reasons to buy more gear 😆

[@francoisrdt]

@@TheBikeSauce Dropper: the obvious use is when shredding gnar on the steep. But then there’s also tucking low when going max speed road/gravel descent (like the pros sometime ‘sit on the bar’), there’s quite an aero advantage to it - not that we care but hey! Free speed. Then it can help mounting/dismounting/stopping at a traffic light. And lastly, i was surprised last week when i hurt my ACL in the middle of the woods. Turns out the only way i could ride home was by dropping it all the way down! Unexpected. Oh, and it’s also a great convo starter :p

[@TheBikeSauce]

Haha dam, well I’m almost sold then

[@mstott22lax]

Great stuff! High quality video and sound assessment of the bike

[@TheBikeSauce]

Thx, Mike

[@MotoMatt418]

The Pathfinder Pro tires are amazing on road and off. I’ve thrown them at all sorts of terrain and they continue to impress me.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Nice. I wish they came on the sport model. The standard pathfinders are mediocre

[@MotoMatt418]

@@TheBikeSauce I put them on my Topstone Carbon Lefty and they truly made the bike sing in its weaker areas. I learned after the fact that those same tires won the Dirty Kanza recently.

[@yowally]

Awesome video! I am looking into picking up a gravel bike and wanted to know if you were looking at any other bikes prior to picking up this one? Thanks!

[@TheBikeSauce]

Oh man, so many. I was really into the Giant revolt advanced 1 as a bike in my budget, but also considered pushing it a bit further for the Santa Cruz stigmata or ibis Hakka. For a minute I considered the Cervelo aspero and one of the salsa options. Donno, something about specialized got me in the end. This Diverge is the 4th specialized I’ve owned and the most of any one brand over the years.

[@Hubertalcala]

Awesome video! I just bought a 21 Diverge and came across your channel! Do you have like a list of your upgrades? Your bike looks awesome!

[@TheBikeSauce]

Upgrades video is actually in the works now! Hope to release it in a week or two

[@Hubertalcala]

@@TheBikeSauce awesome! Thank you!

[@TheFlyingPLiner]

Specialized Diverge has been my first expensive bike purchase and I was scared I would have buyers remorse. I'm happy to report I absolutely love this bike. It is a true all rounder, great at everything and it looks great. Overall very happy with the bike. My only complaint is the brakes. I don't know if I haven't used them enough to break them in? Braking so far seems sub par.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Interesting. Look into proper bedding of new brakes. It makes a big difference in braking power and longevity. If you didn’t proper bed them in, that could be it

[@covali69]

When talking about preference on drop bar bikes, do you lean towards aggressive or relaxed geometry? Once more, thanks for the very thoughtful video and Info

[@TheBikeSauce]

I’ve ridden many types of drop bar bikes and I’m finding that I prefer relaxed geometry lately. Thanks for watching!

[@dakrisht]

You should do a Best Gravel Trails in the OC vid :) looks like you’ve found some fun spots

[@TheBikeSauce]

Good idea! Will probably compile some eventually

[@genelegend]

@@TheBikeSauce please.

[@mattpasquali]

Nice review man. I'm all-in on a Diverge Sport Carbon to be my do-it-all bike and replace my Cervelo R3. Just waiting on inventory to catch up. No one has them :(

[@TheBikeSauce]

I know.. It's rough right now. Stay persistent - something will come up

[@shirtlessGraveler305]

Really appreciate this review, last week I ordered the expert diverge , and it’s 1 x Di2 , in size 54 , I am 5’9”. I am planning on carbon wheels next year when the bike arrives ,sometime, it’s either Hunt, Boyd, HED and FASTFORWARD,are my selections. Question, and issues with your computer mount and space on the bars ? The Hover bar when you had them mounted ? I hope I can use an out front mount such as K EDGE. I am currently using California brand LEZYNE Macro GPS computer. Love it. I am breaking free from 9 years of Garmin........😊

[@TheBikeSauce]

Nice, congrats! Hoping for speedy delivery. Lotta good options for wheels right now. No issues with the out front mount with the stock hover bar. Not room for much else though. Thx for the feedback!

[@robertlasich1056]

Thanks for your content. Very helpful. Have been comparing Specialized Diverge Sport, Giant Revolt Advanced 1 and Trek Checkpoint SL 5 - curious if you did similar compare and why you landed on Specialized. Also, noted your comment on internal cable rattle - I too suffer from same syndrome. What was Avid product you used to squash / dampen the sound? Thanks again

[@TheBikeSauce]

Thx Robert. I was torn between Diverge and Revolt adv 2 actually. At the time, I couldn't get past the mechano-hydraulic brake thing on the Revolt. I preferred the geo on the diverge over the checkpoint as well. The cable foam is by Jagwire. Overpriced, but no hassles ever since.

[@duckmanduckfairy8010]

Running Gravelkings myself but miss my Trigger Pros in 38 they worked great on gravel and super fast on tarmac!

[@TheBikeSauce]

Interesting, why’d you switch?

[@duckmanduckfairy8010]

@@TheBikeSauce my new bike was not tubeless setup so I wanted to try something else but once these are worn out I’m going back!

[@TheBikeSauce]

Got it

[@toddmcdonough]

I've tried a bunch of tires. Its hard to beat the Gravel King SK in the 43mm width. I also tried some other bars that I really wanted to like but I have since gone back to the stock bars on my Marin Nicasio. For your next experiment you might want to try 650b wheels. Then again I've heard the Diverge has a pretty deep BB drop (the Nicasio is 72mm) so might not work unless you go real fat with rubber. Anyway, keep up the useful vids.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Thx! Been using gk sk 43s now for a few hundred miles. They’re great!

[@johnschmitt3083]

Great Review Series on the Bike! Can you say something about the Carbon Frame? Im looking for a gravel bike right now and am already uncertain about Carbon vs Aluminium. Asked some people about it and as always opinions diverge (no pun intended), most say that you only really notice the stiffness when you accelerate real hard. Unfortunately i never had the opportunity to test it myself. As i understand there is also a bigger service component with carbon and the build up (which you didn't had to do) is also different. I'm weighing close to 220lbs and been wondering if stiffness is even more noticeable with more weight.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Ah, the great frame material debate. Haha. Yes it's true - ask 10 different people, you'll get 10 different answers. In my experience, the carbon frameset really helps to damp out harshness in the roads which keeps me fresher for longer. I'm not powerful enough to speak to quantitative gains purported by other cyclists, but I can say that my carbon drop bar bikes have always felt faster (but I also believe it could be psychological). My last aluminum drop bar bike was an early 2000's Specialized Allez, which was the epitome of harsh. Since then, I've only ridden carbon frames, and I really enjoy them. By the way, this is the part where others will chime in with the benefits of steel, titanium, and other frame materials. The cost is definitely a factor, but I still choose to allocate my dollars to a high quality MID RANGE carbon frame as a sweet spot of sorts (my opinion is that the elite top end carbon frames are an exercise in diminishing returns on investment), especially for this non-racer. Hope this helps!

[@prof_writer]

I enjoyed your thorough review. As a former Diverge Comp Carbon owner, I'm impressed at how many changes you have made to the bike. However at the high retail price of the current models I'm expecting everything to be perfect and spot-on in stock form. That isn't always the case; you can shop models based on the specs of each bike.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Definitely true; things should be right out of the box at these prices! However, I prefer to "pay for the frame" when I buy a bike, knowing that I will eventually upgrade components as I see fit, rather than purchasing a bike that I think will be turnkey from the beginning. It's just a personal preference.

[@prof_writer]

@@TheBikeSauce with all the parts you're changing and the cost of those wheels that was one heck of an expensive frame you bought.

[@prof_writer]

Just saw a news article out of the UK the rest of the 2021 shipments might have as much as a 12% retail cost increase due to supply chain issues.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Thomas Mueller ProfWriter LLC haha, I guess you can look at it that way

[@TheBikeSauce]

Thomas Mueller ProfWriter LLC dam, what a bummer.

[@mountainssea9642]

Great review. I love the paint job and must have one. Sizing question based on your experience - I’m between 5’9 and 5’10 and 32 inseam. The specialized sizing calculator seems to suggest a 54. What do you think? 54 or 56?

[@TheBikeSauce]

I’d go 54

[@3mvious]

Why do adjust the preload screws after loosening the steere collar? I haven't notice any play with the fork when I loosen the steerer collar to change stem height on my future shock. Nice videos BTW very informative.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Thx. Generally best practice to set preload anytime the system is loosened. May not have to everytime, just old habit for me

[@cjohnson3836]

Maybe that recent Zipp SL-70 XPLR bar? Seems to look like it was optimized for riding hoods, and from what I've heard, that seems to also be the strong point on GRX

[@TheBikeSauce]

Definitely looks like a cool bar. Coming from traditional road bars and even the 12 degree flare of the Specialized hover bar, my personal preference is slightly more flare in the drops though.

[@superdavaa]

Great Review on bike, I am in a holding pattern for the same bike to be made ugh. They said maybe by spring time it will be available. I am going to change a few things on the bike handle bars, wider and may be tires and wheels. I am a big person lbs and also a older bike rider 60 so I cant go carbon wheels its really not going to work for me.. Keep up the great reviews..

[@TheBikeSauce]

Bike shortage is real.. sorry to hear. Hopefully soon! Kudos for staying active and getting in those miles!

[@alaus7450]

Great review! Have you ever tried group rides with people on dedicated road bikes(racing/endurance) 100% on tarmac? Just curious to know if it can keep up on tarmac

[@TheBikeSauce]

Even when I had a SL4 Roubaix I never did much group riding, so I can't speak to that. I can say that my Strava road segment times have not changed at all when switching to the Diverge and putting on the Hunt wheels and slick Gravel Kings. On the Gravel King SKs, I am noticing a bit more resistance, but that's the trade off for grip in the dirt I suppose. Take this with a grain of salt though; during peak riding season, my FTP hovers around 225, and I'm not competitive or 'fast' by any account.

[@razcohen5590]

@@TheBikeSauce have you tried the goldilocks panaracer gravelking SS (semi slick)? Fast tread in the middle of the tire and knobs on the side for traction in loose dirt section that slicks loose traction.

[@jbandt]

Not sure you'll see this, but hoping to pick your brain on wheelsets. I'm currently running OEM non tubeless compatible alloy wheels with tubes and sealant on my Sirius x 4.0. Recent weight loss has me wanting to upgrade wheels and go tubeless to shed additional weight from the bike. Wondering if carbon wheels are worth the extra money given the marginal weight difference when compared to an aftermarket set of alloy wheels. Tubeless would be a must either way to make it worth the expense, but then I wonder if tubeless makes sense for commuting which is 90% of my riding. Any thoughts?

[@seanvarley1365]

Another great video! I got my diverge sport carbon in March, currently have about 300 miles and just swapped the pathfinder sports for gravel king SKs 38. Tubeless. I'm actively shopping for wheels, not that there are any anywhere but I'm intrigued by your comment that you shaved a KILO off the bike? I think the stock wheels are 2200g and those Hunts you bought are probably around 1500. are the tires that heavy? I've done the Fullerton loop and CHSP a few times on those pathfinders, I'm really looking forward to doing it with plusher tires. :) (My gut feel about the bike is that it is heavy as heck, especially compared to my roadie. I did ride it up GMR over memorial day, not sure I'll do that again)

[@TheBikeSauce]

Combination of wheels, tires, and going tubeless. The other video shows all the weights. Pretty pleased by the reduction

[@seanvarley1365]

@@TheBikeSauce Amazing. I did find the other video after I left this comment. Now if only I could find some wheels instock somewhere. :(

[@richc5638]

Enjoyed the video, good info. Quick question, everything is sold out in my area but have an opportunity to get aluminum e5 base model. Thoughts on that bike as first gravel bike and would it be worth upgrading in the future

[@TheBikeSauce]

Would be an awesome bike (first or tenth). Definitely worth upgrading as you see fit

[@richc5638]

@@TheBikeSauce thanks for the quick reply. In the middle of checking out another one of your vids 😂

[@christianr4938]

Loving your reviews mate! I'm also 5' 8" and considering a 52cm or 54cm.. what's you inseam length? Cheers 👍

[@TheBikeSauce]

roughly 29" I think. Standover isn't really an issue on the diverge since the top tube is so sloped.

[@christianr4938]

Thanks! Appreciate your reply :)

[@andrewrosner8551]

Thank you for a great review! I am considering purchasing the 2021 Diverge Comp Carbon. One question on sizing--I'm 5'8" (like you) and 145 pounds. People have suggested the 54cm and I noted that you found the 52cm worked best for you . . . Can you say a little bit more about your experience with the 52cm and why you found it worked best for your height/weight? Thanks in advance and keep the great reviews coming!

[@TheBikeSauce]

Thanks for watching! I used to ride a 55cm Allez way back and always had knee trouble even with what I thought was proper seat height. My last bike, the Roubaix, I went with the 52 on the suggestion of the fitter me never had a single issue with pain. With the diverge it was a natural choice for me. Part of it too, is I’ve got a longer torso and shorter legs, so the 52 fits better. Another part of it is control. I could probably get the 54 to work with some adjustments to stem length and seat height, but the smaller 52 feels more nimble and easier to control through chunky stuff. Even with the smaller frame, I don’t get any toe overlap due to the slacker headtube angle on the diverge. Lot of factors. Your experience may be totally different, so trust your fitters and best of luck!

[@andrewrosner8551]

@@TheBikeSauce Thank you so much for the insights! I really appreciate it. Keep up the great work on KZbin!

[@paulpfeiffer4949]

Hunt should give you some 650B’s. I know you bought your first 700c’s but I’m curious how wide you can go with the 650b. 🤓

[@PerusJompe]

Hi, about the size I. also 5"8' and specialized says 54 is the right size... But Im debating would 52 still be better... How do you see is the reach too long in 54 size?

[@hansschotterradler3772]

I'd try out the Panaracer Gravelking Semi Slick. They are intended for your purpose.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Was intrigued by those too. Wanted to try something different enough from the slicks for some contrast. I'm sure I'll try the SS tires at some point. thx!

[@prof_writer]

I just noted in your 500-mile review that your main ride prior to this bike was the 2015 specialized sl4 sport. That's my full-time ride and I just love it. I'm afraid to replace it because I believe everything other than that might be inferior. And I bought it used last year from a guy who never rode it for $700!

[@TheBikeSauce]

Wow, great find! Yes, awesome bike. I might have kept both if I had the space, but truthfully, I would probably pick the Diverge every time, save for the one or two full roadie events I do per year.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Also, just noticed that you're faculty at App State. Cheers from one faculty to another! I'm a prof in engineering here in SoCal.

[@prof_writer]

@@TheBikeSauce yes I teach advertising in the communication department. Now that I know you are an engineer I understand your ability to work on the bikes and reflect on all the parts and components.

[@prof_writer]

@@TheBikeSauce I still like the roubaix cuz it rolls faster and I do group rides here in the mountains. But when I ride solo and just wanted to explore I always took the diverge. Never should have sold it but I had no idea that this bike crisis would be upon us.

[@prof_writer]

As a West Coast resident do you know anything about the 2021 Marin Headlands 1? I've identified one in Huntington Beach and they'll ship for free. Bikes are hard to come by right now.

[@wss327]

You should try the Lauf Smoothie

[@TheBikeSauce]

Ha can’t get over the look of it!

[@DilbertMuc]

Why haven't you considered the Specialized Pathfinder Pro? I just got my Diverge and it came with them. I am more than happy to report that they roll really fast on tarmac (around 4 bar pressure) and really grippy on gravel dirt (3 bar pressure). Thus I can do both with efficiency and don't have to switch tires all the time.

[@andrewc583]

great balanced reviews you're doing. I'm considering a Diverge but wondering what size would best suit me. I see you're 5'8" and riding a 52" which you say fits you perfectly. I'm 5'6" and although the sizing chart on the Specialized site is steering me to a 52" frame, I'm wondering whether that'll. be too big considering the additional stack height of the future stock. Wondering if I should instead go for the 49". Any thoughts? Thanks

[@TheBikeSauce]

I'd say very likely 52cm is your best bet. The additional stack can be mitigated by using the smaller FS dust cover and no additional spacers. Unless you really like to slam your stem and get low and aero, I don't think it''ll be a problem.

[@andrewc583]

@@TheBikeSauce Thanks for the quick reply. My hunch is that you're right and I can also swap out the riser bars if I need a lower position. Keep up the nice work.

[@fa1coner]

I have the same bike in 64cm. I went with the ritchey was adventuremax xl bars in 52cm. Along with the enve gravel handlebar tape. I feel the combination gives me the perfect choice of hand positions and comfort. As for there's, for some chunky tires for rough stuff I've been enjoying the teravail Rutland in 47c.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Nice! Solid setup. What’s the flare angle on the venturemax? And those Teravails seem really cool. Almost ordered some cannonballs the other day.

[@fa1coner]

@@TheBikeSauce its 24° so not quite as crazy flared as those beacons but more so than the specialized hoverbar.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Was just checking them out. Would prefer a shallower drop, but seems like a solid option.

[@fa1coner]

@@TheBikeSauce at 6'7" im guessing the 100mm drop feels like your 70mm drop does to you! 😉

[@TheBikeSauce]

Ha probably!

[@howardso9940]

Hello, I’m building a gravel bike . And i bought the ritchey comp beacon. I saw inyour reviews that the Venturemax is better?

[@TheBikeSauce]

One is not better than the other. It comes down to rider preference and feel. I prefer the venturemax over the beacon, but some prefer the extra wide flare

[@angrokan]

As speaking of the anti slip coating. I realised pretty early that the break and shifting cables at the front most likely scratch at the Specialized „S“ on the Front. Managed to put a transparent sticker over it and I’m pretty happy that I did, because the sticker already shows a lot of scratching. Do you have the same issue?

[@TheBikeSauce]

Yes! I had the exact same issue after I shortened the cables. It didn't look like it would rub, but I think when bashing down steep chunky stuff, the cables do slap a bit. I had some cable rub on the headtube and it's a bit worn away already. Too late, but I out some heli tape over it to prevent further damage. Good on you to catch it before your clear coat got worn!

[@osint6372]

I was wondering whether the stem has that special insert for Garmin GPS UNITS...I guess it does

[@TheBikeSauce]

No, it’s just a regular Garmin out front mount off the handlebars

[@91tas]

Have you tried fitting any mudguards to your Diverge? I’ve got the bike arriving next week but not sure which will fit this model

[@TheBikeSauce]

I’m a wuss and don’t really ride in wet and soggy conditions here in socal. Haven’t tried mounting any mudguards or fenders

[@lundoftheeast219]

BTW, Rene Herse 48c knobby "Oracle Ridge" fit great on my 2021 Diverge. I won't ride anything else up here in the PNW!

[@TheBikeSauce]

I have those on deck to try next!

[@hansschotterradler3772]

I'm somewhat interested in getting this exact same bike. Is it possible to switch out the fork for a regular fork without the future shock?

[@TheBikeSauce]

It does use standard headset bearings, but you'd need a completely different fork with standard length steer tube. With a standard fork, there would also be a strange cutout in the frame showing where the Future Shock cover would normally sit.

[@LagunaRider1961]

would love to purchase one of these Diverge but I think there are no dealers in Orange County that have them in stock.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Yea the bike shortage is still in full swing. Although, persistence is key. I kept calling and asking and eventually they had one

[@michaelwtapp]

Nice! Have you ever tried out a 650b/27.5 wheelset on the diverge?

[@TheBikeSauce]

I haven’t yet.. I’m torn because I think I would enjoy the plushness of fatter tires, but a new wheelset and tires is just a big investment. I’d also want a new cassette and rotor so I could swap back and forth quickly, but that all adds up. Maybe eventually!

[@michaelwtapp]

@@TheBikeSauce I just got a 2021 diverge sport carbon and your videos are a great resource! The stock wheels on the Diverge feel heavy and I'd like to upgrade. I test rode a lot of bikes and I liked the responsiveness of 650b wheels. Thinking about getting a 650b set to interchange and keep the 700c stock wheelset too. The only reason I'm reluctant on the 650b set is that I know they will be a little slower; but I am a fan of the responsiveness. Anyway, glad to hear that your diverge feels lighter with your carbon wheel set.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Great, congrats! I think you can get a lighter , stiffer wheelset in either size and be happy. Hunt has a remarkable 650b ‘gravel’ wheel for around $430. Heard only good things about them.

[@klaymoon1]

Great video. Does anyone know how much Diverge Sport Carbon weights on its stock form? For a reason I cannot understand, Specialized does not provide weights in its website. Isn't weight one of the most important spec about a bicycle???

[@TheBikeSauce]

No. It's really not. Weight is in one of my earlier videos on the Diverge tho - the wheel / tire upgrade vid

[@klaymoon1]

@@TheBikeSauce Weight is one of the most important factors the average/most consumers pay for.

[@AppleTech2011]

Ok I got the same model and color- so far so good- for some reason your b roll on your ride on the bike-the scenery looks familiar is this in Ventura County?

[@TheBikeSauce]

Most of my broll is between Fullerton and chino hills and sometimes up near Whittier

[@AppleTech2011]

@@TheBikeSauce Got it - a nice area- in Ventura County here - thanks for the in depth reviews and tips.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Thx for watching!

[@AppleTech2011]

@@TheBikeSauce Keep them coming- looking forward to them.

[@channul4887]

2:59 oh mate, that's brave. Iron vs rubber. I was out of action for a month after similar manoeuvre albeit at a bit higher speed so it made me clench my buttocks.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Ha! Too close to parallel for your liking? Hope you're ok!

[@channul4887]

@@TheBikeSauce sudden wheel slippage, I never crashed this fast on any other surface, even dropping on ice feels more controllable... mainly because you're more alert and prepared. Whereas crashing on rails when you lose your front wheel at 20+ mph can take one by surprise. I have loads of respect for anything made out of iron now. After years of riding I never thought I'd learn something new.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Wow, yea take it easy! Happy to add a bit of suspense to your life! 😆

[@channul4887]

@@TheBikeSauce cheers bro, great vid BTW, loved the comment on flared drops and how they impact the comfort of riding on hoods, that would annoy me immensely.

[@icas80]

3 weeks for warranty levers installed? Count your blessings :) That's quick.

[@TheBikeSauce]

All relative I suppose

[@thecappy]

Check out the GK SS or the WTB Washburn. Fast on road and good gravel tires.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Definitely interested in the semi slicks! Will get around to trying a bunch more tires, I’m sure. Thx!

[@thecappy]

I ride the Conti Terra Speeds (like the schwable g one) and will probably go semi slicks next year. I ride rail trails and tow paths in PA, with crushed lime stone and dont need really grippy tires.

[@TheBikeSauce]

@@thecappy I was eyeing the Terra Speeds too, but I wish they were a bit wider.

[@thecappy]

@@TheBikeSauce I ride the 40s.

[@nockizack3848]

any major issues with it?since im thinking this one as my one and only bike.

[@TheBikeSauce]

0 issues.

[@CyberPain1991]

Can this bike take a luggage rack?

[@brianuy2064]

informative video good editing, just need to work on your audio =)

[@CrispyDsmooth]

Did your replacement peel also ?

[@TheBikeSauce]

Starting to in the same spot on the left lever. Starting to think it’s the cleaner I use.. muc off pink nanotech

[@bikebudha01]

Have you ever considered going with a flat bar w/bar ends? I'm considering it for my gravel bike because the gravel rides I do have very long descents (think 45 minutes of continuous downhill). And road controls/brakes just don't cut it. Your hands get super crampy, and aren't in a 'power position' to control the brakes...

[@TheBikeSauce]

Not for me. I may be a dad, but the flat bar diverge is a bit too dad-bike for me

[@dakrisht]

You can also add Shimano GRX RX-812 Hydro In-Line Brake Levers and have the best of both worlds :)

[@bikebudha01]

@@dakrisht I have something similar on my current gravel bike. They are great for general riding, but because they are centered on the stem/handlebar, you can't use them on fast/rough descents..

[@dakrisht]

The Shimano shifters coating issue will no doubt be a regular thing. I believe they’re using some sort of rubber oil soft touch coating over the ABS/PC after injection molding these things. After enough friction, moisture and usage the coating will again, rub off. Glad they replaced it for you. What’s the warranty period on the drivetrain? For us OCD types, this will certainly be a nuisance!

[@TheBikeSauce]

Yea for sure. It’s nice tho. I believe warranty is a year. Even my replacements have just started to peel in a couple of locations. Wondering if it’s the bike wash I use (muc off pink stuff). Will just live with it.

[@dakrisht]

@@TheBikeSauce could well be the Muc Off, I’ve heard it peels primer and somewhat corrosive. But ultimately, the coating will peel. Which is frustrating since these components are $$$

[@chriswest1037]

Hey! Since prices have gone up, do you think the sport carbon is worth $3300?

[@TheBikeSauce]

Ouch.. that’s $400 more than I paid last year. I mean, I’m a big way you’re paying for the brand. You can spec a similar bike for a lot less. The future shock is another consideration, although a redshift stem seems like a good proxy

[@iuliua]

I have the same coating problem and it started in the bottom of the lever which i don't even touch....i'm expecting to grow...but my concern is that the new levers will have the same problem...how are your new levers after some usage? thanks.

[@TheBikeSauce]

I was also worried that the replacement levers would peel just as quickly. However, they’re holding up well so far, although I did scuff one side already by accident... 🤦‍♂️

[@iuliua]

@@TheBikeSauce thanks...that coating seems very sensitive...i believe it will wear off anyway my minor scuffing or bike drop...awesome bike btw...i have the E5 version and still very impressed...i imagine the carbon one is even smoother...cheers !

[@elachichai]

3:52 you can see HUNT while wheel is rotating

[@erichweissbart5535]

I believe I heard you say that you saved a kg by swapping the stock wheels for Hunt Carbon wheels; is that true, and if so how is that possible? I own a 2021 Diverge that came with DT Swiss G540 and I've compared the weight to Hunt 35's and I don't see that kind of weight savings.

[@TheBikeSauce]

I’ve got a ‘weight savings’ video where I weighed everything on the scale. It’s a combination of the wheel upgrade, going tubeless, and running lighter tires (Panaracer GK 700x38) that saved me a kilo over the stock setup

[@erichweissbart5535]

@@TheBikeSauce Thank you, that makes sense.

[@FOE7]

Great review once again! And Diverge availability is worsening, Sport Carbon will not be available through 2021!!! Specialized is offering me a $5000 diverge model and earliest next spring :( Looks like I will have to buy something else.

[@TheBikeSauce]

noooooooooo! Sorry to hear. Well, on the bright side, there are so many great options out there right now!

[@steveduong02]

I was lucky to get a 49cm on Specialized website. It was the only size available. I didn't wait, and pulled the trigger right away, and placed the order. The next day, I check their website..it was sold out. If I waited to think about it..I would be out of luck.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Nice! Congrats

[@osint6372]

Where in Southern California are you...??

[@TheBikeSauce]

I’m in Fullerton

[@spencerbeck9701]

That has to be Fullerton Loop!

[@TheBikeSauce]

You got it!

[@siners77]

Do you miss the 50/34 crank when compared to current crank ?

[@TheBikeSauce]

Personally don’t miss it at all. However, I don’t race or do fast group rides, so I never spin out at the top end. 90 rpm is a bit over 25mph in the top gear, so plenty fast for me. Anything faster than that and it means I’m on a descent and I’m coasting. I also appreciate the lower lowest climbing gear.

[@siners77]

@@TheBikeSauce thanks for the reply. I am confused between 105 having 50/34 and the latest grx group set crank having lesser teeth. Wondering overall what would be the loss of speed or free crank. Though a 34 or 36 at the rear would always be a help in climbing.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Well, to be clear, having a higher top end gear ratio will not actually make you any faster. You would need to be able to put out the required power through the cranks to actually use the top gear ratio. My take is, unless you’re racing, it’s better to have a lower climbing gear.

[@scottwhittet5226]

Ok, I will not be the first to note this but improvements in bike suspension in the gravel genre do not have to result in $13,000 bikes. Also the arc of seat motion is the same as a Thud Buster seatpost at $150

[@braystar1782]

Did you swap out the stem?

[@TheBikeSauce]

I tried out an Easton riser stem thinking I would need it to bring the bars back up, but I ended up sticking with the stock stem.

[@C.Medina]

Wifes = the voice of reason 😁

[@TheBikeSauce]

This is true.

[@bikebudha01]

Hey man, the schdule for the 2021 Vicious Gravel Series is up (rideviciouscycle.com/2021-2/). The last (3) events are legendary, especially Winthrop. Not for the meek, but something that should be on your 'to do list' for next season. (At least one of them).

[@bikebudha01]

But but but how does it handle smoky air?

[@TheBikeSauce]

Slices through like a hot knife through butter

[@oldanslo]

Saddle slippage anyone? I've got this same Diverge Carbon Sport bike with the Specialized branded seatpost with a carbon shaft and aluminum saddle mount and my favorite Specialized Romin saddle with Ti rails. After every ride I've had to reposition the saddle back to its initial position as the saddle rotates backwards and slides back on the rails. After the last time, I disassembled the head, cleaned the parts, and reassembled torquing the bolt to 7 nm. Still slips. Any ideas? I've thought about carbon paste but that shouldn't be required.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Haven’t had that issue. Is your seat set back unusually far? If so, your clamp is fighting a larger moment and the bolt torque will need to be a bit higher.

[@oldanslo]

@@TheBikeSauce Ah. Ok. Finally broke down and read the instructions. The torque spec for the saddle clamp bolt is 13.5 Nm. Still concerned though. The teeth on the clamp are not contacting uniformly, as the coating rubbed off only on the edges. Now torqued to spec so we'll see.

[@TheBikeSauce]

Keep us posted!

[@seanvarley1365]

Yeah, the seat clamp isn't the best. My saddle tipped mid-ride on me one day but hasn't budged since.

[@Kikiobi616]

From Alameda?

[@TheBikeSauce]

Yup, born and raised. Worked at @alamedabicycle through high school and college too!

[@3mvious]

Rep the nickel & dime