Specialized makes the Aethos faster: the new versions with Roval Rapide wheels arrive

Specialized has presented a new evolution of the Aethos that modifies one of the most important elements of the bike: the wheels. The American brand has decided to equip its new Aethos 2 with the Roval Rapide CLX III and CL III.

Specialized updates the Aethos with Roval Rapide wheels: more aerodynamic without giving up its ultralight essence

When the Aethos hit the market, it broke many of the industry's trends. It was not designed to meet the demands of professional competition nor to obsessively pursue aerodynamics. Its goal was to create the best possible riding experience on a lightweight road bike. Now, Specialized believes that the aerodynamic improvements developed over the past few years allow for real speed gains without compromising the sensations that have made the Aethos a cult bike.

The new Rapide replace the traditional Alpinist

The main novelty of this update is the adoption of the Roval Rapide wheels, developed under the same aerodynamic philosophy that has shaped the Tarmac SL8.

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The configuration maintains Roval's differential concept, with a deeper front rim and a slightly less tall rear to optimize the balance between speed, stability, and control. According to the brand, this combination allows for maintaining the characteristic agility of the Aethos while achieving noticeable aerodynamic gains at high speeds.

The update also comes with the new integrated Roval Alpinist II cockpit and a revised geometry based on data to improve the fit for a larger number of cyclists.  

S-Works Aethos 2: 6.28 kg and top-of-the-line setup

The most exclusive version is the new S-Works Aethos 2, which maintains the FACT 12r frame weighing just 595 grams and records a claimed weight of 6.28 kg in size 56.  

Its equipment includes:

• S-Works Aethos 2 FACT 12r frame
• SRAM RED AXS E1 group
• Integrated Quarq power meter
• Roval Rapide CLX III wheels
• Integrated Roval Alpinist II cockpit
• S-Works Power Mirror saddle

The official price is 13,999 euros.  

Aethos 2 Pro: under 7 kg

Below it is the new Aethos 2 Pro, equipped with a FACT 10r frame weighing 705 grams and a claimed weight of 6.81 kg in size 56.  

Its setup includes:

• FACT 10r frame
• SRAM Force AXS E1 group
• Quarq power meter
• Roval Rapide CL III wheels
• Integrated Roval Alpinist II cockpit
• Power Pro Mirror saddle

Its official price is 8,699 euros.  

Aethos: faster, but still true to its concept

The arrival of the Rapide wheels likely represents the greatest evolution the Aethos has received since its launch. Specialized did not want to alter the character of a bike created to prioritize sensations over any other metric, but rather to take advantage of the aerodynamic advances of recent years to offer a ride capable of maintaining higher speeds with the same level of lightness and responsiveness.