No new kit day would be right without a new bike, and for 2022 our friends at Specialized have brought us something extraordinary.
Based on the SL7 frame that has propelled us to much success since its inception in 2020, the new bike was first seen by our riders at our first training camp of the winter, which was held in Spain, in December. Most noticeable is the unique iridescent matte paint finish, which perfectly matches our new Castelli kit, with the two combined to give the ultimate kit package.
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To help prepare our team and their bikes for what promises to be a busy season, Specialized’s experts were on hand, using their expertise of the Retül fit system to make sure the new machines were catered to each riders’ individual needs. All of the details were taken care of, with the new machines equipped with Shimano Dura Ace groupsets, power meters and pedals, Roval wheels, PRO and Roval steam and handlebars, Specialized saddles and tyres, CeramicSpeed bottom brackets, a K-Edge chain catcher, Tacx bottle cage, and then finished with Supacaz bar tape.
Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl sprinter and Vuelta a España points jersey winner Fabio Jakobsen was delighted with his new machine: “I have loved riding the Specialized SL7 for the past couple of seasons and this new finish gives it a whole new dimension. The guys at Specialized always look after us throughout the year, and when they come to our camp in December, they really look at the fine details of how they can make us go faster. Our bikes are always beautifully set up and balanced and I cannot wait to get racing on my new bike.”
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To add to this, Leader of Specialized racing Scott Jackson said: “Most of the bikes and equipment we make are developed hand in hand with these athletes. We help these riders perform at their best, and in turn, they help us develop the very best products. It’s a proven method for us and a close working relationship is critical to success.”