The Specialized Allez has been a benchmark in the road bike market for about as long as the company has been around. The Allez, inspired by the shouts of encouragement from French spectators (and also a play on the material the bike is made from), was launched alongside the Sequoia sports tourer as one of the American brand’s first production bikes in 1981. From day one, the Allez frame was designed not only to perform, but to do so at an accessible price. This ethos continues to this day and the Allez remains the default aluminium choice.
Although the term ‘entry-level’ is commonly attached to the Allez range, the bikes are far more than just a beginner package. Whether you’re after an intro to road riding, a winter bike or a racing machine, the Allez range has something for you.
A stellar introduction
We may just have said that ‘entry-level’ is an unfair label for the Allez, however if you’re after a confidence-inspiring and reliable introduction to the sport of road cycling, then you can’t go far wrong. The Specialized Allez E5 is a great option for a newcomer and serves as a great way in to the Specialized family. Benefitting from geometry similar to what’s used in the Specialized Tarmac, which has been ridden to countless pro wins over recent years, the Allez E5 also features a FACT carbon fork and Shimano Claris gearing for a long-lasting and lightweight ride.
Keen Commuter
Getting to work under your own steam is indisputably the best way to start the day, so you’re going to need a fast, comfortable and durable machine to get you there safely. Commuting, especially in urban areas, is less about the speed and more about the efficiency. The more endurance-specific geometry and durability of the components of the Allez E5 Sport promise a confident and worry-free commute.
Winter Warrior
It is pretty common practice in the cycling community to have more than one bike. The most common collection includes, at the very least, one summer carbon bike and a winter ‘hack’ that will stand up to whatever rubbish conditions that the colder months might throw at it. Winter bikes tend to be of the aluminium variety for its hard-wearing and durable attributes vs carbon fibre. If you’re on the hunt for a new winter bike, look no further than the Allez E5 Elite complete with carbon fork and Shimano Tiagra shifting.
Crit-Racing Weapon
Aluminium frames have experienced a resurgence in recent years and with good reason. Indeed, the newest addition to the Allez range is designed specifically to perform in circuit racing. At first glance the aero profile of the Allez Sprint DSW SL frame shows off its desire for speed, increasing the stiffness and efficiency of the power transfer through the bike. The hydro-formed weld joints of the D’Aluisio SmartWeld technology produce a stronger, lighter and stiffer front end, and the brazed two-part aluminium bottom bracket gives it the width of a carbon shell. In the Allez Sprint Expert, performance, aesthetics and innovation come together in a neat little package to create a “reliable crit-racing weapon” for any level of rider.
There you have it: proof that the Specialized Allez range offers far more than just a bike for beginners. Whatever type of rider you are, and whatever you’re looking for in a bike, there’s something here for you. Take your pick.
