Specialized is no slouch when it comes to bicycle frame innovation. The Morgan Hill-based company has a long history of creating off-road products that push the boundaries of contemporary engineering but the brand hasn't forgotten where it all started – alloy fabrication. Following in the tracks of the Allez road bike is the Specialized Crux DSW, which is said to be the lightest of its kind. Here is everything we know.

• Gravel bike vs mountain bike: what are the differences?
• What is a gravel bike?
• Best gravel bikes under £1500 in 2023

Specialized Crux DWR gravel bike, by Specialized

So what does that acronym represent? Well, DSW stands for D’Aluisio Smartweld – a hydroforming engineering process that makes for stronger welds and precise tube-to-tube joints. This results in a more durable, lighter frame thanks to a single-piece downtube and bottom bracket.  The seat tube and chainstays are then mated to the down tube by way of the Smartweld welding process. It's all very clever with real-world benefits that outperform the overengineered tubing process of yore. By putting the necessary material exactly where it needs to be, svelte tubing can used and tuned to deliver specific ride characteristics.

According to Specialized, the Crux DSW is the lightest alloy gravel frame at 1,399g for a frame. Combined with a Fact12r Crux carbon fork, the complete bike is claimed to tip the scales at just 9.3kg. Despite its lightweight properties, the company also reckons the ride quality, handling and responsiveness are the best in class. Tyre clearance is the same as the carbon Crux. That means it can accommodate tyres of 47mm and up to 2.1in on a 650b wheel. 

Specialized Crux DWR gravel bike, by Specialized

As far as geometry goes, Specialized is quick to point out that the D’Aluisio Smartwelding has ensured the Crux DSW retains the same angles as its racy carbon sibling – meaning it gets the same long reach and low stack height. In size 54cm (medium), the head angle measures 71.4-degrees while the chainstays and wheelbase come in at a respective 425mm and 1,023mm.

The Crux DSW is available in both frameset and complete build. The complete Crux Comp DSW build comes outfitted in SRAM's Apex mechanical groupset (40T, 11-44T), aluminium DT Swiss G540 wheels and Specialized Pathfinder Pro 2BR, 700x38c tyres, an alloy bar/stem and an alloy-railed Specialized Power Sport saddle.

Specialized Crux DWR gravel bike, by Specialized

Considering the cheapest carbon-framed Crux costs £3,500 ( Crux Comp), Specialized has nailed the pricing on the DSW, which will open the door to a whole new rider demographic. A frameset is £1,500 while a complete Crux Comp DSW will set you back £2,300.

• www.specialized.com

You might also like: 

• What is the spirit of gravel biking?​
• Best gravel bikes 2024 - drop-bar bikes for off-road riding
• Cyclo-cross vs gravel bike: what are the differences?