I chose the Aethos Expert after putting over 8000 miles on my gravel bike in the prior year. This was a significant move up from an alloy frame, not to mention the carbon wheels, too, and electronic shifting, hydraulic brakes. When I ride, it is a minimum of 20 miles, and often 40 to 60 miles, 5+ days a week. So, comfort was a must. My local bike shop and Specialized dealer in NYC was great -- Hilltop Bicycles. Thanks to their generosity, I test rode different Specialized and Aethos models and frame sizes. The perfect fit turned out to be the Aethos Expert. It is light, fast, subtly flexible, and very comfortable for long rides with some long, steep climbs out of the city. It is also responsive for dealing with the bumps, hazards, and unpredictable pedestrians and other riders in the city.

Moved over to the Specialized Aethos family from a Trek Emonda SLR7 after getting taken out by a car. I liked the Trek but wanted to try something different and most of the guys in my riding group are Specialized riders. The ride feel is awesome, I have 32mm tires on for the winter. I really like the bike and it is motivating me to get out and ride, even when it's 20 degrees outside. I'm only at 250 miles but so far so good.

Best bike I've ever owned

I’ve had a Tarmac sl6 and sl7 this bike is way more comfortable. I am really enjoying this bike . It’s my most favorite bike ever.

This thing is amazing. I'm in love. Pricey, but worth it.

Awesome ride. It’s why you buy Specialized. Nothing else to say!

I replaced a custom steel road bike that I had ridden for 27 years with an Aethos frameset which I built up with a mechanical Ultegra drivetrain. The bike weighs 15.5 pounds without pedals, with no exotic parts. It is like riding on air - comfortable, and fast up the hills. I'm still getting the hang of descending - it is so light I'm not yet as confident as I was on the custom steel bike. A phenomenal ride.

New Bike above anything I have had before, 12 speed Di2 for a roadie is very smooth and quiet when changing gears. Handles like a dream.

I was suggested this bike after I broke my Tarmac frame and even when I spend money, I’m completely amaze how wonderful this bike is. Many think that because Specialized advertise this as comfortable, smooth ride is not going to be fast but is super fast indeed. I’m very happy with this one and I don’t really missed my previous Tarmac.

I purchased the Aethos Expert directly from Specialized this past March. I sold my excellent SL6 S-Works Tarmac in advance of the purchase with some trepidation. I have not been disappointed. The Aethos has proven to be every bit as fast, if not slightly faster, than the Tarmac in the flats. The Shimano 12 speed Ultegra Di2 is absolutely flawless and shifts instantly and smoothly. The bike tracks exceptionally well and the disc brakes are outstanding. The real test, however, was this past weekend when I took the Aethos on a hill ride for the first time with gradients of up to 13%. The bike ascended and descended flawlessly and I set 15 personal records on both long climbs and descents. I recommend this bike without hesitation.