Specialized 2016 $2000.00 crosstrail pro disc
08-08-15, 06:19 PM
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Specialized $2000.00 crosstrail pro disc
Specialized Bicycle Components
Was using the M4 frame and suntour fork but it's powered by SRAM....and stopped with magura's ............awesome specs.
MSRP was $1980.00
Model year 2013.....
Sorry about the 2016 date in the heading.
If I could have figured out how to delete the thread I would have
Was using the M4 frame and suntour fork but it's powered by SRAM....and stopped with magura's ............awesome specs.
MSRP was $1980.00
Model year 2013.....
Sorry about the 2016 date in the heading.
If I could have figured out how to delete the thread I would have
Last edited by avidone1; 08-08-15 at 07:04 PM.
08-09-15, 05:06 AM
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Specialized Bicycle Components
Was using the M4 frame and suntour fork but it's powered by SRAM....and stopped with magura's ............awesome specs.
MSRP was $1980.00
Model year 2013.....
Sorry about the 2016 date in the heading.
If I could have figured out how to delete the thread I would have
Was using the M4 frame and suntour fork but it's powered by SRAM....and stopped with magura's ............awesome specs.
MSRP was $1980.00
Model year 2013.....
Sorry about the 2016 date in the heading.
If I could have figured out how to delete the thread I would have
Specialized Bicycle Components
In retrospect, l wish I had bought one, but wasn't ready to at the time. Oh well -- frame's the same still, so I'll get there!
08-19-15, 01:29 PM
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Specialized Bicycle Components
Was using the M4 frame and suntour fork but it's powered by SRAM....and stopped with magura's ............awesome specs.
MSRP was $1980.00
Model year 2013.....
Sorry about the 2016 date in the heading.
If I could have figured out how to delete the thread I would have
Was using the M4 frame and suntour fork but it's powered by SRAM....and stopped with magura's ............awesome specs.
MSRP was $1980.00
Model year 2013.....
Sorry about the 2016 date in the heading.
If I could have figured out how to delete the thread I would have
Looking at the title, I thought you were talking about Specialized's new 2016 Crosstrail Pro Disc: Specialized Bicycle Components
They listed it for only $1800.
I was going to start a new thread on this, but searched an found this one instead.
Check it out! It's not black, a cool looking chrome with red lettering!
08-19-15, 02:12 PM
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Looking at the title, I thought you were talking about Specialized's new 2016 Crosstrail Pro Disc: Specialized Bicycle Components
They listed it for only $1800.
I was going to start a new thread on this, but searched an found this one instead.
Check it out! It's not black, a cool looking chrome with red lettering!
They listed it for only $1800.
I was going to start a new thread on this, but searched an found this one instead.
Check it out! It's not black, a cool looking chrome with red lettering!
Well well well, what have we here?
The crosstrail pro disc is back!
Way to go Traybikeman.
Looking at the specs, the sram lovers should be in 7th heaven.
I wonder, is there a carbon crosstrail on the drawing board?
08-20-15, 07:32 AM
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OP, you may want to start a new thread, I think most readers of this forum have seen my original post, and know that it was in error at the time.
08-20-15, 07:48 AM
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Looks like the 2016 Pro is about the exact same as my 2015 Expert disc? Thoughts? Thoughts on the silver? I LIKE IT!!! May have to get another one!
08-20-15, 07:52 AM
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A little different: dedicated 1x11 version of the frame (no provision for front derailleur); 1x11 drivetrain; cartridge-bearing hubs.
08-20-15, 07:55 AM
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Badger, you seem to get this stuff a bit better than me. How does my 2015 Expert disc stack against the 2016 Expert and Pro versions? If my Expert is not "obsolete" yet then I may just add some lighter upgrades to it instead of getting an entire new Crosstrail for 2016. Although that silver is sexy. Thanks.
08-20-15, 08:08 AM
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Badger, you seem to get this stuff a bit better than me. How does my 2015 Expert disc stack against the 2016 Expert and Pro versions? If my Expert is not "obsolete" yet then I may just add some lighter upgrades to it instead of getting an entire new Crosstrail for 2016. Although that silver is sexy. Thanks.
The biggest difference between the 2015 model Expert and the 2016 offerings is that you might be using your smaller chainring a tad more than you would on the 2016 Expert and obviously not at all on the Pro.
I'll copy & paste a few posts that badger and I have made discussing these models and you can judge if they are of any use to your decision making.
Good on Specialized for adding more options for consumers to try out, but they have made an improvement to the Crosstrail Expert in giving it an 11 speed 11-40 cassette, which pretty much makes the Crosstrail Pro redundant, so I will be surprised if the Crosstrail Pro sells enough to be kept around in the same form, once this year's allocation runs out.
Not sure I see that. Both have excellent but very different drivetrains: 2x11 XT (Expert) or 1x11 SRAM X01/GX (Pro). A real choice, to my mind. There are two other substantial real-world upgrades on the Pro: full Deore brakes (600 series; rated 'best buy' pretty much everywhere), and cartridge bearing hubs.
We'll have to disagree on this. The Pro is a dedicated 1x frame; there is no provision to run a front derailleur. If one wants a true 1x11 drivetrain, that makes sense. Further, while it is true one could ride around on the big ring with a front double ... why not go 1x and eliminate the redundant bits and improve the chainline?
So again, I don't see the Pro as redundant; prospective purchasers are being presented with a choice. Choice is good.
So again, I don't see the Pro as redundant; prospective purchasers are being presented with a choice. Choice is good.
If the Expert's rear cassette was 11-36, instead of 11-40, then I think the Pro would end up doing better than I think it is likely to do.
I certainly won't be concerned if the Pro is a raging sales success and becomes a permanent part of Specialized's line up, because like you, I also believe choice is a great thing, and having the Pro around, doesn't detract from the experience of anyone who buys an Expert or even a Comp.
It is just my prediction that the Pro won't do so well, not just because of the Expert's drive train, but because I think Specialized have made a mistake with going for Sram stuff here.
Sram's 10-42 cassette is a very expensive piece of equipment(so who wants to pay for it and then its replacement) and I think Specialized would have been better off going with Shimano's XT 11-42 cassette and making the front chainring bigger than the 36T they have chosen with the Sram GX crank.
Also one can't get a gear indicator with the Sram GX shifter, whilst the Shimano XT shifter does come with a gear indicator.
I certainly won't be concerned if the Pro is a raging sales success and becomes a permanent part of Specialized's line up, because like you, I also believe choice is a great thing, and having the Pro around, doesn't detract from the experience of anyone who buys an Expert or even a Comp.
It is just my prediction that the Pro won't do so well, not just because of the Expert's drive train, but because I think Specialized have made a mistake with going for Sram stuff here.
Sram's 10-42 cassette is a very expensive piece of equipment(so who wants to pay for it and then its replacement) and I think Specialized would have been better off going with Shimano's XT 11-42 cassette and making the front chainring bigger than the 36T they have chosen with the Sram GX crank.
Also one can't get a gear indicator with the Sram GX shifter, whilst the Shimano XT shifter does come with a gear indicator.
08-20-15, 08:19 AM
#11
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You guys are so good to me! HAHA!
So interestingly enough I have been wondering about my front gearing for awhile. At the beginning of the summer I was out of shape(ish) and spent a lot of time in the smaller front ring. Now towards the mid-late part of the season I am in the bigger ring almost constantly. The bike seems so much free-er up there. Probably mental but I am not down low almost at all. How do my 2015 brakes stack up against the 2016 lineup? I am going to add a couple of Crosstrail specific questions to the thread. thx
So interestingly enough I have been wondering about my front gearing for awhile. At the beginning of the summer I was out of shape(ish) and spent a lot of time in the smaller front ring. Now towards the mid-late part of the season I am in the bigger ring almost constantly. The bike seems so much free-er up there. Probably mental but I am not down low almost at all. How do my 2015 brakes stack up against the 2016 lineup? I am going to add a couple of Crosstrail specific questions to the thread. thx
08-20-15, 09:15 AM
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Badger, you seem to get this stuff a bit better than me. How does my 2015 Expert disc stack against the 2016 Expert and Pro versions? If my Expert is not "obsolete" yet then I may just add some lighter upgrades to it instead of getting an entire new Crosstrail for 2016. Although that silver is sexy. Thanks.
There's no significant difference between your 15 Expert and the 16 one, other than the latter downgrades the brakes and upgrades the XT drivetrain (to 11 spd). In my opinion, 10 spd XT is already superb; I'm sure 'new' XT is 'better', but is there anything wrong with what you have? I'd just wear it out, then replace when necessary.
The Pro (16) is just different: 1x11 drivetrain, mainly, and cartridge bearings in the wheels. Same brakes as your 15 Expert. If you wanted 1x11, you'd still be ahead simply to buy a new XT 1x11 groupset, rather than switch bikes.
To my mind, though, making one or both of two changes to your present bike would be far, far more noticeable than changing to either '16 bike: better wheels, and better fork (e.g. Rockshox Paragon Gold).
04-16-16, 10:11 PM
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Timely new Thread on 2016 Crosstrails. I ordered a 2016 Pro version just last week, will pick it up next week after some aftermarket things are installed. Before getting into those, I'd like to say I've been reading Specialized Crosstrail and Sirrus posts for well over a year and feel like I know all you guys even though I don't. I've been a long time deciding on my purchase and I can't thank all of you enough for all the insights and information you have provided in these and other threads (I see a lot of your names on both Crosstrail and Sirrus treads and I started-out considering both bikes but settled on a Hybrid and focused on it until I pulled the trigger last week).
I am not a skilled Bike rider and don't really know a lot about the technical stuff you guys discuss a lot. But I do (now) know how to choose a bike type based on the riding I want to do and my skill level (thanks to researching bikes on sites like this to learn what priorities are most important to consider and how major components differ and contribute to ride qualities, etc.); and once that was determined I researched Brands and bike reviews and eventually got to this Thread since it was Specialized Crosstrail specific.
Anybody can pick the priciest bike in the model-line (Pro Disc) and be assured higher quality components are used; but is it really the best value for the money? Only the buyer knows for sure based on his/her riding priorities and budget target; and others having different priorities will choose a different bike. But, here's why I decided on the PRO version vs. other models in the Crosstrail line.
I am not a skilled Bike rider and don't really know a lot about the technical stuff you guys discuss a lot. But I do (now) know how to choose a bike type based on the riding I want to do and my skill level (thanks to researching bikes on sites like this to learn what priorities are most important to consider and how major components differ and contribute to ride qualities, etc.); and once that was determined I researched Brands and bike reviews and eventually got to this Thread since it was Specialized Crosstrail specific.
Anybody can pick the priciest bike in the model-line (Pro Disc) and be assured higher quality components are used; but is it really the best value for the money? Only the buyer knows for sure based on his/her riding priorities and budget target; and others having different priorities will choose a different bike. But, here's why I decided on the PRO version vs. other models in the Crosstrail line.
Last edited by Harley2; 04-17-16 at 08:12 AM. Reason: Remainder of Post was lost somehow so part that remained was out of context, so made it make sense with additional post below
04-16-16, 10:25 PM
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Sorry, don't know where rest of my post went. The rest covered my recent PRO purchase, why I decided on that bike and how you guys helped me analyze trade-offs. When I tried to post it to the site a message said I had to refresh the post then re-log in. Thought I did that but only half the post came through above. It was basically a thank you message because this site gave me a lot of information to make my decision. I'll continue reading all you "regulars" thoughts and opinions. I learn a lot every time I'm here. If someone can find the rest of my post it'll save me some time. Otherwise I'll repost later when I pick-up my new Crosstrail PRO.
04-17-16, 12:42 AM
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Sorry, don't know where rest of my post went. The rest covered my recent PRO purchase, why I decided on that bike and how you guys helped me analyze trade-offs. When I tried to post it to the site a message said I had to refresh the post then re-log in. Thought I did that but only half the post came through above. It was basically a thank you message because this site gave me a lot of information to make my decision. I'll continue reading all you "regulars" thoughts and opinions. I learn a lot every time I'm here. If someone can find the rest of my post it'll save me some time. Otherwise I'll repost later when I pick-up my new Crosstrail PRO.
04-17-16, 08:25 AM
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Nice bike! Enjoy the ride, can't wait to here what you think of it. Someone is going to ask how much it weighs.
Last edited by ColdCase; 04-18-16 at 07:04 AM.
04-18-16, 04:12 PM
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RE: Crosstrail Pro: Will see if the Shop has a scale to weigh it when I pick it up (or they'll probably know the base weight without my rear rack and other add-ons). Should get it next week-end (had to wait for SRAM Paragon Gold Air suspension Trekking fork to arrive and be installed … uses RockShox Pop-Loc remote since OEM remote won't fit). Rear rack is an Axiom Flip-Flop LX with cantilevered platform attached to seat post with NO down struts to support it. It still holds 30+ lbs. and thought the cantilevered look was cleaner without down supports (it's silver to match Brushed Aluminum "raw metal" color that is clear-coated and with Red accents).
Due to two back surgeries in last 5 years I can't take the 45 degree riding position with the stock handlebars for very long. So ordered a Uno 820 Adjustable 1-1/8" Threadless Stem 31.8x90mm Black to raise the bars to about 60 degrees (position about half way between 45* stock riding position and a full upright position). OEM stem only had 30* of upward adjustment, the new one has 60* so can get me into a sustainable riding position. Also ordered a KUAT Sherpa two-bike Platform Hitch mounted bike carrier to bring it home with (my old 4-bike rack weighs 60 lbs. and the KUAT is 29 lbs. -- my back will thank me for getting the Sherpa). More later.
Due to two back surgeries in last 5 years I can't take the 45 degree riding position with the stock handlebars for very long. So ordered a Uno 820 Adjustable 1-1/8" Threadless Stem 31.8x90mm Black to raise the bars to about 60 degrees (position about half way between 45* stock riding position and a full upright position). OEM stem only had 30* of upward adjustment, the new one has 60* so can get me into a sustainable riding position. Also ordered a KUAT Sherpa two-bike Platform Hitch mounted bike carrier to bring it home with (my old 4-bike rack weighs 60 lbs. and the KUAT is 29 lbs. -- my back will thank me for getting the Sherpa). More later.
04-18-16, 10:27 PM
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I have the KUAT Sherpa, not as light or adjustable as my old Swagman Twister but it holds the bike more securely. It usually stays on the truck (folded up) but it is light enough to handle. You should be happy with it. Its one of the few that can adapt to a couple different hitch sizes.
04-19-16, 08:50 AM
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RE: Crosstrail Pro: Will see if the Shop has a scale to weigh it when I pick it up (or they'll probably know the base weight without my rear rack and other add-ons). Should get it next week-end (had to wait for SRAM Paragon Gold Air suspension Trekking fork to arrive and be installed … uses RockShox Pop-Loc remote since OEM remote won't fit). Rear rack is an Axiom Flip-Flop LX with cantilevered platform attached to seat post with NO down struts to support it. It still holds 30+ lbs. and thought the cantilevered look was cleaner without down supports (it's silver to match Brushed Aluminum "raw metal" color that is clear-coated and with Red accents).
Due to two back surgeries in last 5 years I can't take the 45 degree riding position with the stock handlebars for very long. So ordered a Uno 820 Adjustable 1-1/8" Threadless Stem 31.8x90mm Black to raise the bars to about 60 degrees (position about half way between 45* stock riding position and a full upright position). OEM stem only had 30* of upward adjustment, the new one has 60* so can get me into a sustainable riding position. Also ordered a KUAT Sherpa two-bike Platform Hitch mounted bike carrier to bring it home with (my old 4-bike rack weighs 60 lbs. and the KUAT is 29 lbs. -- my back will thank me for getting the Sherpa). More later.
Due to two back surgeries in last 5 years I can't take the 45 degree riding position with the stock handlebars for very long. So ordered a Uno 820 Adjustable 1-1/8" Threadless Stem 31.8x90mm Black to raise the bars to about 60 degrees (position about half way between 45* stock riding position and a full upright position). OEM stem only had 30* of upward adjustment, the new one has 60* so can get me into a sustainable riding position. Also ordered a KUAT Sherpa two-bike Platform Hitch mounted bike carrier to bring it home with (my old 4-bike rack weighs 60 lbs. and the KUAT is 29 lbs. -- my back will thank me for getting the Sherpa). More later.
04-20-16, 05:31 PM
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Thanks Badger1. Your comment above that Crosstrail Pro w/Paragon fork should prove a great bike indeed … is largely responsible for me choosing the Pro. To better explain that complement, some background is needed. I started researching and riding Hybrids about a year ago but soon focused on Specialized models after finding the Specialized Hybrid's dedicated Thread on this site. I learned something new every time I came to the Forum, but soon knew I wanted a Hybrid vs. a carbon fixed fork Sirrus after riding both (bigger tires and the suspension fork made all the difference in riding comfort). Last year I rode 2015 models of the Crosstrail Comp, Expert and a leftover 2014 Pro. I thought the Comp was everything I would ever need or want in a group-set -- until I rode the Expert. Even I with limited experience compared to you guys could tell the difference between SLX and XT. For $300 more the Expert just seemed like a bargain compared to the Comp.
Then I started reading the back and forth between Badger1 and ColonelSanders on the merits, differences, pros and cons of the Expert vs. Pro (most of it is recreated in this Thread above). You two are both super-knowledgeable and extremely logical in presenting the rationale behind your cases for the Expert and Pro group-sets and other riding qualities of the two models. As said, I was settled on a two-ring front drive Expert with the wonderful XT group-set -- until I learned the potential benefits of a 1-11 drivetrain from Badger's interaction with the Colonel. I found no flaws in the logic of either of you for either bike (not that I have the biking knowledge to find flaws anyway). I could easily go with either of your views and be happy with either bike. But I got enamored with the "prospect" of a 1-11 drive. It just made total sense to me not to fool around with two rings when one 10-42 ring could provide all the gears I would ever need for my riding purposes. Colonel -- you made perfect sense too for choosing the Expert; but I was caught-up in Badger's 1-11 drive list of facts. I decided on a 2016 Pro largely for that reason -- and I thank Badger and the Colonel for helping me get there. I was now ready for a 2016 Pro purchase.
OK, this is getting pretty long so "how did I decide"? They're both wonderful bikes (the Pro and Expert) and I think there's no real-world difference in group-sets for riders of my skill level and who just ride for fitness and recreation. A $300 difference in price is significant -- but NOT to be me because I loved the color of the Pro. The Expert Black Chrome paint is very striking and even elegant; but the Expert's Brushed clear-coated Aluminum with Rocket Red Accents has to be seen to appreciate. It looks like the classic raw metal used on VERY high end racing Mountain Bikes.
There you are, after all the time and effort you guys spent to educate me on the major, minor and finer points of group-sets and other important bike qualities -- I forget all that and picked one based on color! That's may not be altogether accurate. I think the Pro has some important differences from the Expert. But I still largely picked it over the Expert based on COLOR and conceptual benefits of 1-11 drives. Sorry guys, I must be a total disappointment to all of you by being so subjective in these choices. Maybe I'll do better on my next bike, but don't count on it. I'm not always logical when it comes to bikes, motorcycles, boats, trucks (and women).
Then I started reading the back and forth between Badger1 and ColonelSanders on the merits, differences, pros and cons of the Expert vs. Pro (most of it is recreated in this Thread above). You two are both super-knowledgeable and extremely logical in presenting the rationale behind your cases for the Expert and Pro group-sets and other riding qualities of the two models. As said, I was settled on a two-ring front drive Expert with the wonderful XT group-set -- until I learned the potential benefits of a 1-11 drivetrain from Badger's interaction with the Colonel. I found no flaws in the logic of either of you for either bike (not that I have the biking knowledge to find flaws anyway). I could easily go with either of your views and be happy with either bike. But I got enamored with the "prospect" of a 1-11 drive. It just made total sense to me not to fool around with two rings when one 10-42 ring could provide all the gears I would ever need for my riding purposes. Colonel -- you made perfect sense too for choosing the Expert; but I was caught-up in Badger's 1-11 drive list of facts. I decided on a 2016 Pro largely for that reason -- and I thank Badger and the Colonel for helping me get there. I was now ready for a 2016 Pro purchase.
OK, this is getting pretty long so "how did I decide"? They're both wonderful bikes (the Pro and Expert) and I think there's no real-world difference in group-sets for riders of my skill level and who just ride for fitness and recreation. A $300 difference in price is significant -- but NOT to be me because I loved the color of the Pro. The Expert Black Chrome paint is very striking and even elegant; but the Expert's Brushed clear-coated Aluminum with Rocket Red Accents has to be seen to appreciate. It looks like the classic raw metal used on VERY high end racing Mountain Bikes.
There you are, after all the time and effort you guys spent to educate me on the major, minor and finer points of group-sets and other important bike qualities -- I forget all that and picked one based on color! That's may not be altogether accurate. I think the Pro has some important differences from the Expert. But I still largely picked it over the Expert based on COLOR and conceptual benefits of 1-11 drives. Sorry guys, I must be a total disappointment to all of you by being so subjective in these choices. Maybe I'll do better on my next bike, but don't count on it. I'm not always logical when it comes to bikes, motorcycles, boats, trucks (and women).
Last edited by Harley2; 04-25-16 at 08:01 PM. Reason: Romove comments that proved untrue after further investigation
04-20-16, 06:13 PM
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Thanks Badger1. Your comment above that Crosstrail Pro w/Paragon fork should prove a great bike indeed … is largely responsible for me choosing the Pro. To better explain that complement, some background is needed. I started researching and riding Hybrids about a year ago but soon focused on Specialized models after finding the Specialized Hybrid's dedicated Thread on this site. I learned something new every time I came to the Forum, but soon knew I wanted a Hybrid vs. a carbon fixed fork Sirrus after riding both (bigger tires and the suspension fork made all the difference in riding comfort). Last year I rode 2015 models of the Crosstrail Comp, Expert and a leftover 2014 Pro. I thought the Comp was everything I would ever need or want in a group-set -- until I rode the Expert. Even I with limited experience compared to you guys could tell the difference between SLX and XT. For $300 more the Expert just seemed like a bargain compared to the Comp.
Then I started reading the back and forth between Badger1 and ColonelSanders on the merits, differences, pros and cons of the Expert vs. Pro (most of it is recreated in this Thread above). You two are both super-knowledgeable and extremely logical in presenting the rationale behind your cases for the Expert and Pro group-sets and other riding qualities of the two models. As said, I was settled on a two-ring front drive Expert with the wonderful XT group-set -- until I learned the potential benefits of a 1-11 drivetrain from Badger's interaction with the Colonel. I found no flaws in the logic of either of you for either bike (not that I have the biking knowledge to find flaws anyway). I could easily go with either of your views and be happy with either bike. But I got enamored with the "prospect" of a 1-11 drive. It just made total sense to me not to fool around with two rings when one 10-42 ring could provide all the gears I would ever need for my riding purposes. Colonel -- you made perfect sense too for choosing the Expert; but I was caught-up in Badger's 1-11 drive list of facts. I decided on a 2016 Pro largely for that reason -- and I thank Badger and the Colonel for helping me get there. I was now ready for a 2016 Pro purchase.
Then low-and-behold I found out that BOTH the 2016 Pro and Expert have 1-11 drivetrains (SRAM X01 on the Pro and Shimano XT on the Expert). What was I to do? My choice to get a 1-11 drive now turned into an impossible choice since both group-sets are wonderful; so how do I decide? Brakes were maybe one big difference (theoretically, because I felt few riders could probably tell the difference between Shamano M447 and M615 unless they were on a racetrack and needed the higher performance qualities of the M615's). Another difference was sealed cartridge bearings in the wheels. Badger thought that was significant, I just assumed they prevented water from getting in but I don't know their real benefits. Another factor was the Pro has a 10-42 cassette and the Expert has an 11-40. That's two more teeth but I probably would never notice the difference in real-world riding. Then there's that this year's Expert is Shamano's first venture into 1-11 drives, whereas SRAM has years of experience in 1-11's. Probably not too significant since Shamano wouldn't be offering it unless they had tested it to death and were sure it was going to perform. (As an aside, SRAM and Shimano now both have 10-48 cassettes for their 1-11 drives, which should put some real pressure on 2-ring drivetrains for the future -- i.e., who needs 2-rings anymore with 10-48 cassettes available? They are really expensive now, but in a few years they'll probably be more affordable; that'll allow them to be used in mainstream-priced bikes. Just like 2-rings are replacing 3-rings, some people I respect think 1-ring will replace two-rings in the not too distant future.)
OK, this is getting pretty long so "how did I decide"? They're both wonderful bikes (the Pro and Expert) and I think there's no real-world difference in group-sets for riders of my skill level and who just ride for fitness and recreation. A $300 difference in price is significant -- but NOT to be me because I loved the color of the Pro. The Expert Black Chrome paint is very striking and even elegant; but the Expert's Brushed clear-coated Aluminum with Rocket Red Accents has to be seen to appreciate. It looks like the classic raw metal used on VERY high end racing Mountain Bikes.
There you are, after all the time and effort you guys spent to educate me on the major, minor and finer points of group-sets and other important bike qualities -- I forget all that an picked one based on color! That's may not be altogether accurate. I think the Pro has some important differences from the Expert. That makes me feel somewhat better. But I still largely picked it over the Expert based on COLOR. Sorry guys, I must be a total disappointment to all of you. Maybe I'll do better on my next bike, but don't count on it. I'm not always logical when it comes to bikes, motorcycles, boats, trucks (and women).
Then I started reading the back and forth between Badger1 and ColonelSanders on the merits, differences, pros and cons of the Expert vs. Pro (most of it is recreated in this Thread above). You two are both super-knowledgeable and extremely logical in presenting the rationale behind your cases for the Expert and Pro group-sets and other riding qualities of the two models. As said, I was settled on a two-ring front drive Expert with the wonderful XT group-set -- until I learned the potential benefits of a 1-11 drivetrain from Badger's interaction with the Colonel. I found no flaws in the logic of either of you for either bike (not that I have the biking knowledge to find flaws anyway). I could easily go with either of your views and be happy with either bike. But I got enamored with the "prospect" of a 1-11 drive. It just made total sense to me not to fool around with two rings when one 10-42 ring could provide all the gears I would ever need for my riding purposes. Colonel -- you made perfect sense too for choosing the Expert; but I was caught-up in Badger's 1-11 drive list of facts. I decided on a 2016 Pro largely for that reason -- and I thank Badger and the Colonel for helping me get there. I was now ready for a 2016 Pro purchase.
Then low-and-behold I found out that BOTH the 2016 Pro and Expert have 1-11 drivetrains (SRAM X01 on the Pro and Shimano XT on the Expert). What was I to do? My choice to get a 1-11 drive now turned into an impossible choice since both group-sets are wonderful; so how do I decide? Brakes were maybe one big difference (theoretically, because I felt few riders could probably tell the difference between Shamano M447 and M615 unless they were on a racetrack and needed the higher performance qualities of the M615's). Another difference was sealed cartridge bearings in the wheels. Badger thought that was significant, I just assumed they prevented water from getting in but I don't know their real benefits. Another factor was the Pro has a 10-42 cassette and the Expert has an 11-40. That's two more teeth but I probably would never notice the difference in real-world riding. Then there's that this year's Expert is Shamano's first venture into 1-11 drives, whereas SRAM has years of experience in 1-11's. Probably not too significant since Shamano wouldn't be offering it unless they had tested it to death and were sure it was going to perform. (As an aside, SRAM and Shimano now both have 10-48 cassettes for their 1-11 drives, which should put some real pressure on 2-ring drivetrains for the future -- i.e., who needs 2-rings anymore with 10-48 cassettes available? They are really expensive now, but in a few years they'll probably be more affordable; that'll allow them to be used in mainstream-priced bikes. Just like 2-rings are replacing 3-rings, some people I respect think 1-ring will replace two-rings in the not too distant future.)
OK, this is getting pretty long so "how did I decide"? They're both wonderful bikes (the Pro and Expert) and I think there's no real-world difference in group-sets for riders of my skill level and who just ride for fitness and recreation. A $300 difference in price is significant -- but NOT to be me because I loved the color of the Pro. The Expert Black Chrome paint is very striking and even elegant; but the Expert's Brushed clear-coated Aluminum with Rocket Red Accents has to be seen to appreciate. It looks like the classic raw metal used on VERY high end racing Mountain Bikes.
There you are, after all the time and effort you guys spent to educate me on the major, minor and finer points of group-sets and other important bike qualities -- I forget all that an picked one based on color! That's may not be altogether accurate. I think the Pro has some important differences from the Expert. That makes me feel somewhat better. But I still largely picked it over the Expert based on COLOR. Sorry guys, I must be a total disappointment to all of you. Maybe I'll do better on my next bike, but don't count on it. I'm not always logical when it comes to bikes, motorcycles, boats, trucks (and women).
I must admit that when I was first discussing the differences between the Crosstrail Pro and Expert, unlike Badger, I did not pick up that the Pro had a better wheelset, I thought they were identical.
I also think the Pro has the better colour scheme too, so I can understand that being a major factor in your decision.
Are you sure that you can get a version of the Expert Crosstrail as a 1 x 11 setup? On Specialized's site, they only list a 2 x 11 version of the Expert.
Did my talk of one being effectively able to use the Expert as a 1 x 11, because of the large cassette, lead you astray?
Regardless, I'm sure you will have a fantastic time with your Crosstrail Pro, it appears to be one hell of a bike.
04-20-16, 07:19 PM
#23
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ColonelSanders post reply: Your questions. I checked the Specialized.com site last night and an error message came up saying the site was in the process of transferring to a Microsoft App interface so no one could get to the Site until that was complete. Prior to that I was on the Specialized.com site two weeks ago (and have printed Specs on the Expert from it) and it showed all the Specs of the 2016 Expert with a Shamano 1-11 drive with 11-40 cassette. I asked my Denver Store Mgr. if that was true. He said yes, it was a 2016 change to the Expert, but I could still get the Pro with 1-11 and a 10-42 cassette from Sram. I ordered that for reasons in above post and it's here; but they are waiting on the Paragon fork to deliver the Bike.
Your next question that "did I know you said the previous Expert's 2-ring drive was just or even more effective than the Pro's 1-11 drive and I could stay on one ring almost all the time" -- I understood that you inferred 99% of my riding could be done on one of the Expert's two rings. While I believe that to be true, I just felt "why have two rings when one is totally sufficient for my purposes". A rider who needs more gears might make another decision. A 1-11 suits my riding purposes. As I said above, your logic for the Expert was (is) very convincing. And if I hadn't gotten enamored with a SIMPLE 1-11 drive (as being more than sufficient for my needs and being less complicated), I could have gone with either case made by you or Badger1.
Although I wrote a novel-length post above, I forgot two things. Why did I order a Paragon Gold fork vs. just stay with the stock Suntour? Probably not significant in everyday riding, I just wanted a true AIR shock and not a Spring shock. Regardless of the confusing language used in Specialized description of the Suntour shock "intimating" that's it's an Air shock -- in my opinion, it isn't an air shock based on you guys looking under the caps to see if there's any air injection points. I wanted an air shock. I'm sure the SRAM RockShox Paragon Gold will be up to the quality standards of all RockShox products. Enough said on that, RockShox Air is proven.
Lastly, you "Regulars" make this site far and above any other Bike site on the Web. For those of you only viewing this Thread, go over to the dedicated Crosstrail Thread and see ALL the Regulars who participate and make the thread wonderfully interesting and informative. Thanks to all of you who spend time to help others.
Your next question that "did I know you said the previous Expert's 2-ring drive was just or even more effective than the Pro's 1-11 drive and I could stay on one ring almost all the time" -- I understood that you inferred 99% of my riding could be done on one of the Expert's two rings. While I believe that to be true, I just felt "why have two rings when one is totally sufficient for my purposes". A rider who needs more gears might make another decision. A 1-11 suits my riding purposes. As I said above, your logic for the Expert was (is) very convincing. And if I hadn't gotten enamored with a SIMPLE 1-11 drive (as being more than sufficient for my needs and being less complicated), I could have gone with either case made by you or Badger1.
Although I wrote a novel-length post above, I forgot two things. Why did I order a Paragon Gold fork vs. just stay with the stock Suntour? Probably not significant in everyday riding, I just wanted a true AIR shock and not a Spring shock. Regardless of the confusing language used in Specialized description of the Suntour shock "intimating" that's it's an Air shock -- in my opinion, it isn't an air shock based on you guys looking under the caps to see if there's any air injection points. I wanted an air shock. I'm sure the SRAM RockShox Paragon Gold will be up to the quality standards of all RockShox products. Enough said on that, RockShox Air is proven.
Lastly, you "Regulars" make this site far and above any other Bike site on the Web. For those of you only viewing this Thread, go over to the dedicated Crosstrail Thread and see ALL the Regulars who participate and make the thread wonderfully interesting and informative. Thanks to all of you who spend time to help others.
Last edited by Harley2; 04-20-16 at 07:30 PM.
04-20-16, 08:55 PM
#24
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ColonelSanders: Contrary to my post of an hour ago confirming a 1-11 Expert drivetrain as of two weeks ago per a Specialized dealer, I tried the Specialized.com site again and got through. Rechecked the Expert Specs, and now see an XT front derailleur listed. Obviously there wouldn't be a front derailleur listed if it was a dedicated (one-ring) 1-11 drive. So it appears that since the site was down for Microsoft App integration the Expert Specs now indicate a 2-ring crankset is standard (still has 11-40 rear cassette listed but with a front derailleur now listed it must not be incorporating Shamano's new 1-11 dedicated drive which is newly offered this year but apparently not on the Specialized Expert). There's also now a 2-ring crankset listed (Specialized Stout SL 44/32T). Don't know why the discrepancy on this (with dealer too); but your "are you sure about the Expert 1-11 single-ring drive being available" question was prescient. Looks like it isn't. I'll re-ask dealer about this when I pickup my Pro model this week-end. Maybe there's an explanation for the contradictory information.
Last edited by Harley2; 04-20-16 at 09:11 PM.
04-20-16, 09:32 PM
#25
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In my experience following specs on Specialized site the last couple years, I have often found surprising discrepancies. Sometimes the dealer has better info, sometimes not. Personally, if there was a feature that was important to me, I'd want to physically see the bike to verify it was there.
For example, my 2015 Crosstrail Comp was advertised as a 2015 and built in Jan 2015, but not to 2015 specs. It matches the 2016 spec sheets that were published much later in 2015. You may find bikes being produced now match unpublished 2017 specs. In my case I was lucky and received a notch better components, but I dunno if thats always the case. So an expert being built today may indeed be built with a single ring option thats in a spec yet to be published. I've seen some specs sheets change weekly, bouncing back and forth in relatively minor detail, and others with very old mistakes (i.e. schrader tubes on the Comp which in fact has presta).
Just saying, you probably shouldn't depend completely on the web site specs as Specialized will build something else on you It adds some confusion, and something to argue about. Not sure if other manufactures have the same configuration control and documentation disconnects.
For example, my 2015 Crosstrail Comp was advertised as a 2015 and built in Jan 2015, but not to 2015 specs. It matches the 2016 spec sheets that were published much later in 2015. You may find bikes being produced now match unpublished 2017 specs. In my case I was lucky and received a notch better components, but I dunno if thats always the case. So an expert being built today may indeed be built with a single ring option thats in a spec yet to be published. I've seen some specs sheets change weekly, bouncing back and forth in relatively minor detail, and others with very old mistakes (i.e. schrader tubes on the Comp which in fact has presta).
Just saying, you probably shouldn't depend completely on the web site specs as Specialized will build something else on you
It adds some confusion, and something to argue about. Not sure if other manufactures have the same configuration control and documentation disconnects.
Last edited by ColdCase; 04-20-16 at 09:57 PM.
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