Specialized Crux 5 Expert SRAM Force XPLR

The Specialized Crux 5 Expert AXS is born from the fastest gravel race bike ever made—not just because it's the lightest, not just because it's the most aerodynamic, and not just because it handles dirt like a Tarmac handles pavement, but because it delivers the lowest real-world Time to Finish of any gravel bike ever made. Built with the same Time to Finish philosophy, aerodynamic breakthroughs, and race-focused engineering as its higher-tier siblings, Expert brings pinnacle gravel performance to discerning riders who demand extraordinary quality without compromise.

Developed using Specialized's revolutionary Equation of Speed—a physics-based simulation that predicts total elapsed race time over specific real-world courses—the Crux 5 Expert turns more of your effort into pure speed, validated across real race courses, real terrain, and real riders. The FACT 10r carbon frame at 897 grams incorporates Flow State Design, where tube shapes are precisely tuned to carry load efficiently through insights discovered when engineers noticed frames "breathing" under load. Every size from 49–61cm receives a specific carbon layup based on performance metrics unique to that size, delivering consistent stiffness, compliance, and handling regardless of rider height.

The Expert model features race-tuned progressive geometry with a slacker head angle, steeper seat angle, longer reach, and lower BB drop for optimal aerodynamics and power positioning. The frame clears up to 55mm tires with no compromises, allowing athletes to run the right tire for any course while maintaining the aerodynamic advantage of the Crux platform. The Roval Terra C III wheelset paired with SRAM Force AXS XPLR wireless electronic shifting delivers reliable performance for serious gravel racing, while the Roval Terra cockpit and handlebar provide integrated aerodynamic efficiency.

Key Features

• Frame - FACT 10r Carbon (897g) with Flow State Design and Rider-First Engineering
  
• Drivetrain - SRAM Force AXS XPLR Wireless Electronic 12-Speed
  
• Wheelset - Roval Terra C III with 55mm Tire Clearance Capability