2020 Crux Elite

Lorsque nous avons entrepris de concevoir un nouveau vélo de cyclocross, le but n'était pas de créer un autre vélo d'aventure dont on aurait simplement augmenté le dégagement pneu/cadre. Non, nous voulions créer un pur-sang de compétition léger, fiable et ultra performant. Avec plusieurs titres de champion du monde de cyclocross à son palmarès, le CruX a plus que fait ses preuves en compétition. Pourtant, le nouveau CruX passe dans une nouvelle dimension.

Ce CruX Elite est équipé d’un très fiable groupe SRAM Rival 1 en version freins à disque hydrauliques, de robustes roues DT R470 Disc et de pneus Tracer Pro 700 x 33 mm 2Bliss Ready accrocheurs sur tout type de terrain.

• Starting with the frame, we implemented our Rider-First Engineered™ technology that was first introduced on our Tarmacs. Using size-specific tubes and layups, this technology allows the Crux to feature the same ride characteristics across every size in the range. Not only this, but it also allowed us to significantly drop the frame weight, so the Crux now comes in around a scant 900 grams for a 56cm (*dependent on frame size and color)—over 400 grams lighter than the previous frameset. A light and stiff frame, alone, isn't useful in a 'cross race if it isn't compliant, however, which is why the new Crux also combines stiffness and compliance in all the right places. And to assist with the latter, we lowered the seat collar by two centimeters for more exposed seatpost and cushion for big hits.

• We also know that cyclocross races are often won in the corners and over the barriers, which is why the Crux geometry takes this into account. The top tube has been designed for easy shouldering when you're hopping off to clear barriers, as it features a large opening to the front triangle and a flat bottom. For stability in the corners and on off-camber sections, the geometry has a low bottom bracket and a sharp front-end. This combination also helps to initiate corners, regardless of the terrain.

• With maximum mud-shedding ability in mind, we included eight millimeters of clearance on all sides of a 33mm tire, providing plenty of clearance for muddy conditions. After all, frame weight becomes irrelevant when it's covered in 10 pounds of mud.