The Specialized Crux has been a standout in the gravel world since its release in 2021, but with 2025 upon us, is it still worth buying? In this video, I dive into why I think the Crux is still one of the best gravel bikes, its unmatched versatility, and what might be on the horizon for a new Crux.
First, if you’re in need of some extra gear, check out the "yard sale" section on my website, where I’m clearing out new and used cycling gear- https://www.outdoorbros.com
In this video, we'll cover:
The Crux’s lightweight frame (725 grams!) and how it stacks up against competitors like the Enve MOG and Cervelo Aspero 5.
Handling and performance that make it a joy to ride on gravel and on the road.
My current Crux setup and why I’ve stuck with it through years of testing different tires, wheels, and drivetrains.
If you’re deciding whether to buy now or wait for the next Crux, this video breaks it all down. Let me know in the comments if you’re team aero or a traditionalist!
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Gear I’m Riding and Into ↓↓↓
Favorite Road Tires: Pirelli Race TLR https://amzn.to/49jhn7i
Classic Tires: Continental GP5000 S TR https://amzn.to/3ZdCD9Q
Gravel Tires: Pirelli Cinturato Gravel M https://amzn.to/4ghsTCj
Sealant: Orange Sealed https://amzn.to/3ZjIOt9
Road Race Bike: Specialized Tarmac SL8 https://geni.us/dD4d
Gravel Bike: Specialized Crux https://geni.us/USRdxh
MTB Bike: Epic 8 https://geni.us/1APpjc
OSPW: CeramicSpeed OSPW RS https://amzn.to/4eVD8v6
All-Around Helmet: Kask Protone Icon https://amzn.to/4f0y093
Road Helmet: Specialized Evade 3 https://geni.us/ReXn7
Road Shoes: Specialized Torch https://geni.us/ALhUC
Gravel/MTB Shoes: Recon Lace https://geni.us/tzba
Computer: Wahoo ELMNT Bolt https://amzn.to/45VERgm
Saddle: Pro Stealth https://amzn.to/3sVd9S7
Chain Lube: CeramicSpeed UFO Drip https://amzn.to/3B19Opd
Road Wheels: Enve SES 4.5 https://geni.us/yy3ao
Gravel Wheels: Reserve 40|44 https://geni.us/1iKt6Z
Valves: Fillmore Valves https://geni.us/uQQTZ6
Nutrition ↓↓↓
Everyday Workout Drink Mix: https://amzn.to/3VpgrZo
Everyday Recovery Protein: https://amzn.to/41bJqU9
Everyday Oats: https://amzn.to/3CTW0x4
Creatine Monohydrate: https://amzn.to/4gfyhpF
Camera Equipment ↓↓↓
Camera: Sony A7RV https://amzn.to/3BdfPPs
Lens: Sony 16-35 f/2.8 GMII https://amzn.to/49oGBBk
Microphone: DJI Mic 2 https://amzn.to/4g2ik6r
Tripod: Mactrem https://amzn.to/49oGBBk
*Some of these are affiliate links with a small commission.
00:00 Intro
00:32 Aesthetics: Aero vs Traditional
01:08 Aero in Gravel
01:35 Weight
02:03 Hola Adios Ad
02:34 Handling + Performance
03:31 On-Road Performance
04:27 Custom Crux Build
05:29 Where Does it Stand in 2025?
06:04 Buy Now
06:24 Reduced Pricing
06:55 Era of Simplicity
07:18 You Know I Like the Crux
07:44 Up Next: Bike 3 of 3