Specialized S-Works Crux 5 Frameset 2027 - FACT 12r Carbon
The Specialized S-Works Crux 5 Frameset is an exceptionally light, race-focused platform for riders building a top-level gravel bike. Its 789g FACT 12r carbon frame combines efficient power transfer with precise handling and aerodynamic refinement, while a threaded bottom bracket, UDH dropout and included S-Works carbon seatpost provide a practical foundation for a custom race build.
The S-Works Crux 5 Frameset is for riders who know exactly what they want. Whether you're building the lightest possible gravel race bike, a fast all-road machine or a no-compromise dream build, this frameset gives you complete freedom to create a bike that's uniquely yours.
Build It Your Way- Our workshop can help you turn your S-Works Crux frameset into a complete dream build. Whether you're chasing the lightest race bike possible or building a gravel bike tailored to your riding style, we'll help you choose compatible components, achieve the right fit and assemble it to the highest standard.
A 789g FACT 12r Carbon Frame
At a claimed 789g, the S-Works Crux 5 frame keeps weight exceptionally low without losing the stiffness and control required for gravel racing. Reduced frame weight makes the bike easier to accelerate, carry through steep run-ups and drive over repeated climbs.
FACT 12r carbon construction allows Specialized to tune the shape and lay-up of each area according to its structural purpose, placing stiffness where it improves power transfer while retaining the control needed on rough surfaces.
Designed for Real Gravel Speed
The Crux 5 has been developed to reduce the time required to complete 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 remain efficient on exposed roads and high-speed sections while retaining the accuracy needed for loose corners, technical descents and uneven surfaces.
Responsive Race Handling
The S-Works Crux 5 is designed to feel direct and responsive without becoming nervous when the surface deteriorates. It changes direction quickly and responds immediately to harder efforts, giving experienced riders the precision expected from a dedicated gravel race bike.
Rider-First Engineered construction tunes the ride characteristics for each frame size, helping preserve consistent handling and response throughout the range.
S-Works FACT Carbon Fork
The S-Works FACT carbon fork complements the frame’s low weight and responsive handling. Its 12 x 100mm thru-axle provides accurate wheel positioning and steering control, while the flat-mount brake interface maintains a clean and modern setup.
The fork is designed as part of the complete frameset rather than as a separate component, helping the front and rear of the bike feel balanced across high-speed gravel terrain.
Practical Modern Standards
A 68mm BSA threaded bottom bracket makes bearing installation and future servicing straightforward. The 12 x 142mm rear thru-axle and flat-mount brake standard provide broad compatibility with modern gravel components.
The UDH dropout simplifies replacement hanger sourcing and supports current direct-mount drivetrain options, giving riders greater freedom when selecting a groupset.
Ready for a Custom Race Build
Choosing the S-Works Crux 5 Frameset allows riders to select every component according to their racing, fit and performance priorities. Wheel depth, tyre choice, gearing, cockpit dimensions and power measurement can all be tailored without paying for components that may later be replaced.
The included S-Works Tarmac SL8 carbon seatpost provides a lightweight finishing component with 15mm of offset and a lightweight saddle clamp.
Key Features
- S-Works Crux 5 FACT 12r carbon frame
- Claimed frame weight of 789g
- S-Works FACT carbon fork
- Rider-First Engineered construction
- Gravel race-focused handling
- Aerodynamically refined frame design
- S-Works Tarmac SL8 FACT carbon seatpost included
- Integrated seatpost wedge
- 68mm BSA threaded bottom bracket
- 12 x 142mm rear thru-axle
- 12 x 100mm front thru-axle
- Flat-mount disc brake compatibility
- SRAM UDH-compatible dropout
- Claimed frameset weight: 1.63kg in size 56
Why Riders Love the Specialized S-Works Crux 5 Frameset
The Specialized S-Works Crux 5 Frameset is designed for riders who want a gravel bike built around speed, low weight and precise handling. It provides a premium foundation for a fully personalised race build, allowing every component to be chosen around the rider and the events they intend to tackle.
Exceptional Low Weight
The 789g frame reduces the weight that must be accelerated and carried over climbs, helping the bike feel lively during repeated changes of pace.
Efficient Power Transfer
FACT 12r carbon construction creates a direct response under harder efforts, helping convert rider input into forward movement.
Confident Race Handling
The Crux combines quick steering with the stability needed for loose gravel, fast descents and changing race conditions.
Size-Specific Performance
Rider-First Engineered construction helps smaller and larger frame sizes retain consistent handling and ride characteristics.
Practical Servicing
The threaded bottom bracket and UDH dropout simplify common servicing and replacement requirements.
Complete Build Freedom
Starting with a frameset allows the drivetrain, wheels, cockpit and tyres to be selected around the rider’s fit, racing goals and budget.
Long-Term Compatibility
Modern axle, brake and derailleur standards make the frameset compatible with a broad range of current high-performance gravel components.
Who Is This Frameset For?
Perfect For
✔ Elite and competitive gravel racing
✔ Riders building a lightweight custom gravel bike
✔ Fast mixed-surface events
✔ Hilly and climbing-focused courses
✔ Riders who prioritise precise handling
✔ Riders wanting complete control over component selection
✔ Anyone seeking Specialized’s highest-level Crux frame
Our Thoughts on the Specialized S-Works Crux 5 Frameset
The Specialized S-Works Crux 5 Frameset is intended for riders who know exactly what they want from a gravel race bike. Its 789g FACT 12r frame creates an exceptionally light starting point, but low weight is only part of its appeal. The combination of responsive handling, aerodynamic refinement and practical frame standards makes it suitable for real gravel racing rather than simply producing an impressive figure on the scales.
A threaded bottom bracket and UDH dropout are sensible inclusions on a frame likely to see demanding use and frequent travel. The included S-Works carbon seatpost also removes one major finishing component from the build list.
For riders planning a no-compromise gravel race build, the S-Works Crux 5 offers the freedom to choose every component around fit, performance and intended terrain. This is the Crux frameset we would recommend when race performance takes priority over everything else.
Why Buy from Chain Reaction?
✔ Official Specialized Dealer
✔ Frameset professionally inspected before collection or dispatch
✔ Expert component compatibility and custom-build advice
✔ Professional headset, bottom bracket and component installation available
✔ Expert bike sizing and setup advice
✔ Complete custom bike builds available through our workshop
✔ Premium handover with a complete feature and maintenance walkthrough
✔ Lifetime workshop support from experienced mechanics
✔ Nationwide New Zealand delivery
✔ Finance and WorkRide options available
Geometry
Geometry and fit can influence handling, weight distribution and comfort, particularly on a race-focused custom build.
Contact Chain Reaction if you would like help comparing frame sizes or selecting the correct cockpit dimensions.
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
Frame selection should consider rider height, body proportions, flexibility, racing position and preferred handling. A rider may fit more than one size depending on whether they prioritise a lower race position or a slightly more relaxed long-distance setup.
Contact Chain Reaction for personalised sizing and custom-build advice before ordering.
Delivery and Inspection
Every Specialized S-Works Crux 5 Frameset purchased from Chain Reaction is carefully inspected by our workshop before collection or dispatch.
Your frameset receives:
- Full visual and workshop inspection
- Frame, fork and seatpost checked
- Threads and mounting interfaces inspected
- Small parts and supplied hardware checked
- Component compatibility advice
- Initial fit and build consultation
- Secure protective packaging for transport
- Nationwide New Zealand delivery
- Click & Collect where available
A complete professional custom build is also available. Our workshop can help select and install a compatible drivetrain, brakes, wheels, cockpit and finishing components according to your fit, riding and racing requirements.
Specifications are based on manufacturer information and may change without notice.