The aluminium Allez has been been a stalwart of Specialized’s road collection for several years, remaining relatively unchanged from its original incarnation as an entry-level, endurance-oriented frame. However, possessing the resources to continue in the research and development of aluminium alongside carbon fibre, Specialized has been able to radically change the way it’s Allez frame is produced.
The Allez Sprint uses SwartWeld technology - developed by Specialized’s creative specialist Chris d’Alusio - whereby instead of using mitred tubes that are TIG-welded together, the frame is constructed in hydroformed sections. Case in point is the bottom bracket shell - two huge hydroformed clamshell pieces are brazed together, to which the down tube, seat tube, and chainstays are welded, creating a BB shell more reminiscent of carbon fibre tube-and-lug construction than aluminium.
It moves the tube welds away from the points of stress, which Specialized claims increases stiffness, and as the tube walls can then be made thinner around the joints, it makes for a lighter frame too. Along with appropriate tweaks to the geometry and Specialized’s top-tier FACT carbon fork, this new manufacturing method has changed the Allez into an aggressive, race-oriented bike that is now less packhorse, more thoroughbred.
All the while the Allez’s signature value for money remains one of its foremost attributes, with the Sprint Expert retailing at £1,500. To hit this price point, the groupset is a mongrel mix of Shimano 105 and Ultegra, with a Praxis Zayante crankset. The weight of the Zayante crankset is on par with Shimano’s Ultegra one, so it will be interesting to see how well the 105 front derailleur and Praxis rings work together.
Specialized in-house budget brand Axis supply it’s Elite wheels, which are shod which Specialized’s 24mm Turbo Pro tyres, and the bike is finished with Specialized’s basic aluminium bars, stem, an S-Works Venge carbon seatpost and Toupé saddle.The Allez DSW SL Sprint will be sticking around on long term test so check back often for updates on how the partnership is developing.