Specialized Tricross Review
The Specialized Tricross range of road bikes is suitable for anyone who wants a versatile cycle which will be at home on the daily commute while still having enough gusto to take on long tours and even races when the time is right. The multi-purpose nature of the Tricross family does not mean that it is pulling in lots of different directions at once, but instead lets you know that this is a highly capable range across a number of diverse areas.
The base model Specialized Tricross is painted simply in black for 2012, with barely a manufacturer’s logo in sight. This unfussy approach to its design is echoed by its specifications. You get an A1 Premium Aluminium frame with fully manipulated tubing and smooth welding, which enables the bike to feel stiff and nimble in combination with a good grounding in strength and durability. The alloy fork features fittings which will allow you to add a mudguard or a rack at the front, either turning it into an excellent urban runabout or a splash-resistant road rider. Shimano 2300 components combine with Tektro CR-520 brakes to push the bike forwards and pull it into check respectively. Alex S480 rims and Specialized Borough CX Sport tyres let you enjoy that fast-rolling smoothness across the tarmac while still keeping you on the right path in more slippery conditions.
Specialized Tricross Sport
The Specialized Tricross Sport takes a few notable steps forward with its components. For one you get a fork with FACT carbon legs and the same fittings for accessories. The lighter fork compliments the alloy frame with its strength and also lets you feel in a greater position of control when the paved roads give way to dirt. Shimano Sora components and Tektro CR-720 brakes are on hand to give you the power and precision that you need.
The Specialized Tricross Sport Disc is largely identical to the standard Sport in terms of equipment and even price, but the notable addition of Avid BB5 disc brakes at the front and rear mixes things in a different manner. A 160mm rotor at the front and a 140mm rotor at the rear let you control the speed of the bike deftly and give you great stopping power in any weather conditions. Whether you choose the Sport Disc or the Sport will depend on the type of braking system with which you are most comfortable.
Specialized Tricross Elite Disc
The Specialized Tricross Elite Disc makes the most significant leaps forward in the range, although its A1 premium alloy frame is shared with its siblings. As such you still enjoy the internal cable routing and integrated headset, while the full alloy fork is specifically designed for the disc brake setup. This does mean you lose out on the carbon legs of the Sport model, but for some this change is worth it. The Avid BB5 disc brakes are present and correct, but it is the Shimano Tiagra groupset, newly revised for 2012, that makes the biggest impact. In combination with the Specialized Borough CX Armadillo Elite tyres and Alex Handsome Dragon 2.0 rims, this bike offers a great balance between speed and ergonomic comfort.
