We've just had our first Specialized Allez 2009 in one of our shops. First impressions?
Well the obvious one you can see for yourselves. Look at that top tube. Remind you of anything? The trickle down of technology that keeps Specialized's low end bike ranges competitive is clearly in operation here. That bowed tube is nicked straight
from Specialized's top end Tarmac range of bikes.
It gives the new Allez a very, very modern look and, according to Spesh, helps it ride more efficiently - more vertical compliance, better power transfer, increased sex appeal etc etc.
Dunno about that, seeing as how all we could do was take it for a test ride (we ride every bike before you do) for ten minutes outside the shop. It did feel very similar to the old Allez though, which is a good thing for those of us who have grown to love the relaxed sporty fit. It's got the same components as last year's basic Allez: Shimano Sora and Spesh's own carbon fork, post and headset.
Once we've had a chance to give it a bit more of a battering we'll let you know. But back to the original question - first impressions? The new Specialized Allez 2009 is a very good looking bike for the price. If it rides anything like the Allez of old it'll be a very popular bike.
