Specialized Crux 5 S-Level 2027 - SRAM RED XPLR
The Specialized Crux 5 S-Level brings much of the performance of the S-Works Crux 5 into a slightly more accessible package. Its 897g FACT 10r carbon frame is paired with SRAM RED XPLR, a Quarq power meter, Roval Terra Aero CL wheels and an integrated Roval cockpit. At a claimed 7.7kg in size 56, it is an exceptionally light and focused gravel race bike without requiring the full S-Works build.
Lightweight FACT 10r Carbon Frame
At a claimed 897g, the FACT 10r carbon frame provides an exceptionally light foundation for gravel racing. Reduced frame weight makes the Crux easier to accelerate, carry through run-ups and drive over repeated climbs.
Rider-First Engineered construction tunes the carbon lay-up for each frame size, helping preserve consistent handling, stiffness and ride quality throughout the range.
Designed for Real Gravel Speed
The Crux 5 has been developed to reduce finishing times across real gravel courses rather than focusing on weight or aerodynamics in isolation. Its frame design balances low weight, aerodynamic efficiency and confident handling across changing terrain.
This approach helps the bike carry speed on exposed roads and faster sections while retaining the accuracy needed for loose corners, technical descents and uneven surfaces.
SRAM RED XPLR 13-Speed
SRAM RED AXS XPLR provides precise wireless electronic shifting through a gravel-specific 1x13-speed drivetrain. The 10–46T cassette offers closely spaced gearing for maintaining cadence while retaining the range needed for steep gravel climbs.
The full-mount rear derailleur attaches around the rear axle rather than using a conventional derailleur hanger. This creates a robust system designed for demanding off-road use and consistent shifting under load.
Quarq Power Measurement
The SRAM RED XPLR crankset includes a Quarq power meter for measuring rider output. Accurate power data helps riders pace long races, structure training and manage effort throughout demanding events.
A 40-tooth chainring provides a useful balance between climbing ability and speed when paired with the 10–46T cassette.
Roval Terra Aero CL Wheels
Roval Terra Aero CL wheels use deep carbon rims with dependable DT Swiss 350 hubs. The 50mm front and 45mm rear rim depths are designed to reduce aerodynamic drag during fast gravel racing and exposed road sections.
A 27mm internal width provides stable support for the 45c Pathfinder tyres. Tubeless-ready construction also allows riders to lower tyre pressures for improved comfort and traction while reducing the risk of pinch punctures.
Integrated Roval Terra Cockpit
The Roval Terra integrated handlebar and stem provide a clean, race-focused front end while reducing the number of separate components. Its carbon construction helps keep weight low and gives the Crux precise steering response.
An S-Works Tarmac SL8 carbon seatpost and Power Pro Mirror saddle complete a premium contact-point package designed to support the rider during long races.
Key Features
- Specialized Crux 5 FACT 10r carbon frame
- Claimed frame weight of 897g
- S-Works FACT carbon fork
- Rider-First Engineered construction
- SRAM RED AXS XPLR wireless 1x13-speed drivetrain
- SRAM RED XPLR 10–46T cassette
- SRAM RED XPLR crankset with 40T chainring
- Integrated Quarq power meter
- SRAM RED E1 hydraulic disc brakes
- Roval Terra Aero CL carbon wheels
- DT Swiss 350 hubs
- Specialized Pathfinder 700 x 45c tubeless-ready tyres
- Roval Terra integrated carbon cockpit
- Power Pro saddle with Mirror technology
- S-Works Tarmac SL8 carbon seatpost
- Threaded bottom bracket and UDH dropout
- Claimed complete-bike weight: 7.7kg in size 56
Why Riders Love the Specialized Crux 5 S-Level
The Specialized Crux 5 S-Level is designed for riders who want top-level drivetrain performance, low weight and aerodynamic efficiency without stepping into the price of the complete S-Works model. Its carefully selected components make it ready for serious racing without requiring immediate upgrades.
Exceptional Low Weight
The 897g frame and 7.7kg complete-bike weight give the Crux quick acceleration and a lively feel on repeated climbs.
Efficient Power Transfer
FACT 10r carbon construction creates a direct response under harder efforts, helping turn rider input into forward movement.
Aerodynamic Performance
Deep Roval Terra Aero CL wheels and the integrated cockpit help reduce aerodynamic drag on exposed and high-speed sections.
Precise Electronic Shifting
SRAM RED XPLR provides fast wireless shifting with 13 closely spaced ratios and suitable range for demanding gravel courses.
Integrated Power Data
The Quarq power meter provides accurate information for structured training, race pacing and performance tracking.
Confident Race Handling
The Crux combines quick steering with the stability needed for loose gravel, fast descents and changing surface conditions.
Dependable Race Components
DT Swiss 350 hubs, RED hydraulic brakes and premium carbon contact points create a high-performance build designed for regular use.
Who Is This Bike For?
Perfect For
✔ Competitive gravel racing
✔ Fast mixed-surface events
✔ Hilly and climbing-focused courses
✔ Riders who train and race with power
✔ Riders wanting SRAM RED XPLR
✔ Riders prioritising low weight and aerodynamic performance
✔ Riders wanting near-S-Works performance at a lower price
Our Thoughts on the Specialized Crux 5 S-Level
The Specialized Crux 5 S-Level is one of the most interesting builds in the Crux range. Its FACT 10r frame is only 108g heavier than the S-Works frame, yet it retains the same race-focused geometry, Rider-First Engineered construction and S-Works FACT carbon fork.
There is very little compromise in the drivetrain. SRAM RED XPLR provides the same 13-speed wireless shifting and integrated Quarq power measurement found on the S-Works build. The Roval Terra Aero CL wheels use the same race-focused rim depths but pair them with dependable and easily serviced DT Swiss 350 hubs.
For riders wanting a genuine top-level gravel race bike without paying for every final gram of the S-Works model, the Crux 5 S-Level is arguably one of the strongest-value performance choices in the range.
Why Buy from Chain Reaction?
✔ Official Specialized Dealer
✔ Professionally assembled, safety checked and workshop tuned before collection or dispatch
✔ Brakes professionally pre-bedded before collection or dispatch
✔ SRAM AXS drivetrain and Quarq power meter checked and configured
✔ Premium handover including initial bike setup, a complete feature walkthrough and practical maintenance advice
✔ Expert bike sizing and setup advice
✔ Lifetime workshop support from experienced mechanics
✔ Nationwide New Zealand delivery
✔ Finance and WorkRide options available
Geometry
Contact Chain Reaction if you would like help comparing frame sizes or selecting the correct setup for your riding position.
Size Guide
- 155–158cm: Size 49
- 163–168cm: Size 52
- 168–175cm: Size 54
- 175–183cm: Size 56
- 183–191cm: Size 58
- 191–198cm: Size 61
Rider height is a useful starting point, but body proportions, flexibility, racing position and preferred handling can influence the ideal frame size. Contact Chain Reaction for personalised sizing and bike-fit advice before ordering.
The supplied manufacturer chart does not include a recommendation for riders between 158cm and 163cm. We recommend personalised sizing advice for riders within this range.
Delivery and Assembly
Every Specialized Crux 5 S-Level purchased from Chain Reaction is professionally assembled, tuned and safety checked by our workshop.
Your bike receives:
- Complete professional assembly
- Full workshop safety inspection
- SRAM RED AXS adjustment, firmware check and electronic setup
- Quarq power meter checked and configured
- Brakes professionally pre-bedded using our Sinter Smart bedding-in machine
- Cockpit and seatpost installation checked
- Handlebar, saddle and control positions initially adjusted
- Tyre pressures checked and set
- Secure packaging for transport
- Nationwide New Zealand delivery
- Click & Collect where available
For nationwide delivery, the bike is securely packaged following its workshop inspection. Some minor final assembly is required after unpacking. Instructions are included, and the Chain Reaction team is available if assistance is needed.
Specifications are based on manufacturer information and may change without notice.