Is Specialized a Good Brand (Yes But Read This Before Buying


Is-Specialized-a-Good-Brand

Have you ever wondered if Specialized is a good brand and should you buy one? Well, I got you covered.

There are cycling brands far and wide and distinguishing between quality and crap can take some digging.

If you’re investing in a bike, you want to know that it’s going to be a well-made and reliable ride from a responsible and trustworthy brand. 

Let’s shift the magnifying glass to the Specialized brand.

Is Specialized a good brand? Yes, Specialized is a good brand that you can trust, the quality of the products is high and you can definitely buy Specialized bikes without regrets. Because when you buy a Specialized bike, you’re doing more than investing money in a metal frame with rubber tires. You’re also investing in a brand.

Before you purchase your bike, decide if you stand behind the ethics and mission of Specialized.

In this article, we’ll cover the history of Specialized bikes, who is behind the brand, and the quality of the bike that they produce. 

Let’s get it. 

Back in the day

Specialized was founded in 1974 by a group of riders that wanted more out of the bicycle world.

Their claim to fame was the first production mountain bike, aptly named the Stumpjumper in 1981.

Breaking records again in 1989, Specialized produced the first production carbon fiber mountain bike.

Brief history recap of Specialized Brand

? 1974: Founded by Mike Sinyard, who is still CEO of the company today.

The team worked out of a small trailer, sending out orders of bike components they imported from Europe. 

? 1981: the Stumpjumper is introduced

? 1988: sales reach $18 million

? 1989: Specialized introduces the carbon fiber mountain bike

? 1993: first Specialized full-suspension mountain bike is created

? 2001: manufacturing moves to Taiwan

? 2019: Specialized continues to sponsor multiple pros in the road and mountain biking fields

As trail lovers, the founders of Specialized were highly involved in expanding the domain of the mountain bike.

They were forerunners in establishing the International Mountain Bike Association to ensure bike access to trails.

Fast forward to today, and Specialized remains a top-notch brand, competing with the best. 

Related reading: Where Are Surly Bikes Made? What You Need To Know

Behind the Brand

Who do you want to design your bike? A rider. That’s the theory that Specialized abides by as well.

The brand is highly involved in innovation and research, studying body geometry and bike engineering

They own the data acquisition tool called Retul and apply heaps of information into their bike building. 

The founder created an outreach foundation for young kids called Outride, which focuses on promoting school-based cycling programs and communities.

The mission of Outride involves applying evidenced-based cycling initiatives that intend to improve multi-level health in our youth.  

✔️ A few more tidbits about the Outride program:

✔️ 143 Riding for Focus school programs in the USA and Canada

✔️ Ongoing bike ride events and challenges for community involvement

✔️ Researching to understand how bike riding impacts brain function and health

✔️ Grant matching to fund projects for trails, youth programs, and young rider development

To further uphold social and environmental responsibilities, Specialized collaborates with the Fair Factories Clearing House and helped to found the World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry Responsible Sporting Initiative.

They recognize that sustainability is an ongoing journey and provide transparency on their information pages about their efforts in this field. 

Related reading: Is Specialized Overpriced or Overrated? (FACTS You Should Consider)

How do users rate the Specialized Crossroads bike in terms of performance and satisfaction?

Users have given the Specialized Crossroads bike an average rating of 93 out of a possible 100, based on 26 ratings. Experts have also reviewed the bike, giving it a rating of 81.

According to feedback from an owner and reviewer, the Crossroads is considered a good value for money option as it offers greater durability compared to lower-end, entry-level bikes typically found in big box stores.

What are the expert reviews saying about the Specialized Crossroads bike?

The expert reviews of the Specialized Crossroads bike provide a comprehensive overview of its features and performance. According to Brian Richard, a Level 1 expert reviewer, the Crossroads is commended for being a well-made, sturdy bike with high-quality welds and responsive shifters.

However, Richard points out that the braking power for the disc brakes could be improved. Another Level 1 expert from Coastline Outdoors praises the Crossroads 3.0 model for its lighter weight, particularly noting the effectiveness of the hydraulic disc brakes and carbon fork.

Additionally, the review highlights the comfort provided by the Specialized gel saddle but expresses some reservations about the impact of the spring-loaded seat post.

Overall, the expert reviews collectively acknowledge the Crossroads’ solid construction and performance while noting areas where improvements could enhance the overall riding experience.

How does the Specialized Crossroads bike compare to other bikes in terms of rankings and scores?

The Specialized Crossroads bike is positioned relative to other bikes based on various rankings and scores.

When compared to other bikes, the Specialized Crossroads ranks as the 12th Best Fitness bike in the bottom 50%, the 49th Best Hybrid bike in the bottom 30%, the 29th Best Specialized Bike in the bottom 10%, and the 429th Best of All Bikes in the bottom 40%.

Additionally, in terms of the BikeRide Score, the Specialized Crossroads garners a score of 84. This is slightly below the average BikeRide Score for all bikes, which is 86. Comparatively, the average BikeRide Score for Specialized bikes is 93 and for Fitness bikes is also 84.

What are some drawbacks or reasons not to buy the Specialized Crossroads bike?

When considering the purchase of the Specialized Crossroads bike, there are a few aspects that potential buyers might want to take into account.

Firstly, some reviewers have noted that while the bike is deemed to be of value, there are comments about its pricing being on the higher side.

Additionally, concerns have been raised about the braking power of the Crossroads 2.0 model, particularly in relation to its disc brakes. Another drawback highlighted by a reviewer is the centrally-mounted kickstand, which was found to be obstructive by the same individual.

These factors may be worth considering for those contemplating the purchase of the Specialized Crossroads bike.

What are the features and components of the Specialized Crossroads bike?

The Specialized Crossroads bike is designed for both women and men, catering to various riding purposes such as fitness, commuting, comfort, and catering to beginners and seniors. It is a hybrid non-electric bike that was released in 2023.

This model boasts a wheel size of 700c and offers multiple gearing options with 7 (1×7), 9 (1×9), or 14 (2×7) gears. The gearing type is an external derailleur, providing smooth and efficient shifting. Unlike some bikes, the Specialized Crossroads does not feature suspension, making it ideal for urban environments.

In terms of braking systems, riders can choose between hydraulic disc brakes, mechanical disc brakes, or rim V-brakes based on personal preference. The frame materials available for this bike include aluminum, carbon fiber, and steel, each offering a unique balance of strength, weight, and durability.

Additionally, the fork material options are carbon fiber, aluminum, and steel, offering riders different levels of stiffness and comfort.

Where can I buy the Specialized Crossroads bike and at what price?

The Specialized Crossroads bike can be purchased for $775.00 on eBay. You can find this bike and its pricing details on eBay where BikeRide aims to provide comprehensive information and help you discover the best prices available.

What are the different models and specifications of the Specialized Crossroads bike?

The Specialized Crossroads bike comes in three models, each offering different specifications to cater to various preferences and needs. The Crossroads 1.0 features a steel fork, providing durability and stability. The Crossroads 2.0 boasts an aluminum fork, offering a balance of lightweight construction and strength.

For those seeking a premium option, the Crossroads 3.0 comes with a carbon fiber fork, ensuring a lightweight build without compromising on performance. Additionally, each model of the Crossroads bike is equipped with unique drivetrains that allow for smooth and efficient gear shifting.

The bikes also feature comfortable Body Geometry gel saddles, versatile tire widths ranging from 38-45mm, and convenient mounting points for racks and fenders. With reflective details for increased visibility and a stylish design with internal cabling, the Specialized Crossroads bikes provide a blend of comfort, performance, and durability for cyclists of varying skill levels.

Reputation of Specialized Brand

We can thank Specialized for helping in the popularization of mountain biking and the advancement of production mountain bike manufacturing.

In recent years, they’ve gotten a bad rep as a brand for demonstrating litigious characteristics and being tough on their employees to meet aggressive quotas. 

Some say they’re soulless. But the company has also shown moments of humanity by traveling to small bike shops to apologize in person for legal action issues.

After this event in 2013, the company committed to being more mindful about engaging in trademark lawsuits in the future. 

Mike Sinyard, the founder of Specialized Bikes, confessed that their antipathetic pursuit of trademark infringements originates from the huge amount of counterfeit goods on the market.

At the same moment, he states that he recognizes that the company has taken its protective methods a bit too far. 

All in all, they produce top of the line elite bikes and offer a wide range of spec’d out quality bicycles. 

Related reading: Are Trek Bikes Good Quality? (All Facts You Need to Know)

The Bikes

The Specialized name is just as recognized as Trek and Giant. It’s well-represented among the pros and their collection of bikes is massive.

You’ll find professional to beginner bikes in sleek road rides to rugged mountain frames. 

The design range includes bikes of the following categories:

? Mountain bikes

? Road bikes

? Active bikes 

? Kids bikes

Let’s explore each of the categories listed above a bit further. 

Mountain Bikes

Specialized Brand includes a variety of mountain bikes in their lineup. You can find a trail, cross-country, downhill, fat bikes, and BMX bikes alike.

Trail: Big adventure riding

This is where Specialized started with the original Stumpjumper – which you can still buy in the modern version, by the way.

The new and improved Stumpjumper is boasted as a “singletrack flow finder” and this full-suspension bike will completely dominate the trail.

Cross-country (XC): Take to the dirt

Specialized bike claims to have the fastest XC bike in the world.

Full-suspension to a hardtail, you’ll find lightweight frames and geared out specs across the lot

Downhill: Full rodeo

For monstrous riding, these downhill bikes are the type of beast you want to saddle. The only option in this category is expert-level.

Fat Tires: More chubby, more better

The fatties by Specialized bikes will float over obstacles like a cloud. When that gnarly pow-pow (aka snow) won’t stop you from riding, this is your vehicle. 

BMX

With one bike in this category, you might be able to find a more robust BMX brand out there.

However, true to form, Specialized will deliver a quality bike for hitting the ramps and berms. 

Mountain E-bike: Up the trail tech

For the rider that regularly faces major uphill climbs and long stretches, the Turbo e-bikes will amplify your efforts by 4x and last for 5 hours of use.

Road Bikes

Another specialty of the brand, their road bike range is expansive. Featuring frames specific to performance, gravel riding, cyclocross, and triathlons. 

Performance: Blaze pavement

If the pros will choose it, you know it’s going to be a great ride. Specialized’s most honored road bike is their Tarmac design.

Yes, it’s the price of a car, but holy hell it’s decked out in some major tech. When you’re ready to compete with the elite, here’s your ticket. 

Gravel: Back road bliss

These bikes can handle the rumble of a gravel path without transmitted it to your shoulders and neck. 

Cyclocross: Sling mud

If you’re looking for entry-level cyclocross bikes, look elsewhere.

The lowest buys here start at a few thousand. However, they’re built to take a beating and handle the slick race track.

The CruX model has a few Cyclocross World Championships behind it too.

Triathlon: Travel like a dart

With time-trial speed in mind, these Specialized bikes are built like aerodynamic points.

From moderately priced to house down-payment, these are very “specialized” bike frames.

They even feature a hydration system that houses a water bladder inside of the frame so it doesn’t catch any wind drag. 

Road E-bike: Power up

Add a little zing to your hill climb with this battery-powered machine. It can assist you up to 28mph and last 120 miles. 

Active Bikes

Exercise-forward bikes for fitness and function that will get your sweat on or help you achieve the right commute.

This category covers fitness, transportation, and comfort. 

Fitness: Get toned

Easy fitness on a quality bike. No need to race or go wild on the rocks.

These bikes blend comfort and speed for a great workout. 

Transportation: Pack it up

Here’s where biking hits the scenic route. When it comes to bike packing, Specialized has some great options.  

Comfort: Cruise easy

There are some suave comfort cruises under this label. Easy to mount and a breeze to pedal. You won’t be taking these bikes on any single-track, but they’ll sure look good on the boardwalk. 

Active E-bikes: Pedal power

You’re not left out if your knees stop you from ascending the hills and lasting long stretches on your ride.

The Turbo line from Specialized bikes will take you up to 80 miles and amplify your efforts 4x. 

Kid’s Bikes

From toddler to 10+ years, your kiddos are covered. The smallest balance bike is pretty darn cute and the big kid bikes are capable of hanging with the grown-ups.

Summary

Is Specialized a good brand? We’ve covered the story here. The company started small and with a dream and has since expanded into a billion-dollar corporation.

They’ve had their hiccups along the way and gotten into some sticky situations, but who hasn’t? 

Specialized brand has been improving their relationships with shop owners and rebuilding their community trust.

What they’ve always excelled at is quality bike builds. They brought us the mountain bike in the 70s and have continued to deliver excellent bicycles since that time.

The final word: good brand, they are. 

References:

https://www.specialized.com/

https://www.bikeradar.com/

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John Muranko

John is Founder and Senior Bike Editor at ProBikeCorner. John is a bike and travel addict who has cycled through 17+ countries and doesn't really have any plans of stopping. He´s passionate about helping others by creating technical resources, in-depth reviews and more…

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