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Specialized 2010: Women’s road bikes and more

The Micromatrix upper is now softer-feeling and conforms better to the foot than last year's version.

  • Specialized's new women's-specific S-Works Amira is an analogue to the racy S-Works Tarmac SL2.
  • The Amira uses a tapered front end but the lower bearing uses a 1 3/8
  • Stout chain stays are paired with slender triangulated seat stays, just as on the Tarmac.
  • The oversized bottom bracket houses a FACT integrated carbon crankset.
  • The 2010 Ruby will be more 'endurance' oriented for 2010 with geometry and handling more akin to a Roubaix.
  • The carbon frame uses Roubaix features but with smaller tubing profiles for a ride more appropriate to smaller and lighter riders.
  • Specialized claims the new Ruby is almost 10 percent more comfortable than the '09 version.
  • The 2010 Ruby uses a straight steerer tube for more comfort.
  • An oversized integrated bottom bracket is used here as well.
  • The new S-Works road shoe now weighs just 470g per pair (actual weight, sz43.5).
  • The Micromatrix upper is now softer-feeling and conforms better to the foot than last year's version.
  • Dual-zone Boa lacing allows for a more tunable fit.
  • Open-backed lace guides make it easier to get the shoes on and off.
  • The synthetic heel cup liner holds on tight with minimal padding required.
  • The new FACT 12.0 carbon sole is supposedly stiffer and lighter than before.
  • Specialized has traded in last year's solid carbon construction for a new hollow foam core configuration.
  • The textured sole offers a solid purchase for cleats and a vent up front brings in cooling air.
  • Of course, there's the usual Body Geometry footbed.
  • Specialized shoes have become wildly popular among the pros, whether or not their team is so sponsored.
  • The new Body Geometry Romin saddle is aimed directly at competitive road riders who tend to spend a lot of time in the drops.
  • The Romin is mostly flat like the Toupe but has a slightly kicked-up tail.
  • The Romin nose is wider and flatter than the Toupe and the central channel carries through the entire length of the saddle.
  • The Toupe carries on but with updated finishing bits that are supposedly more durable.
  • A new Toupe SL saddle will join the range later this year with a feathery 112g weight.
  • Carbon fibre is used for the flex-tuned shell and ovalized rails.
  • The Phenom is technically in Specialized's mountain bike saddle range but it is has still found favour in the road ranks.
  • A new Solar Ray clothing collection offers UPF 50 protection without the need for any coatings.
  • The S-Works helmet is mostly unchanged for 2010.
  • A new pad set looks to be more durable than the existing version.
  • The second-tier Propero continues to offer excellent value.
  • The S-Works' Pro Fit 360 retention system finds its way into the Propero, replacing the old Pro Fit 270 setup.
  • The Specialized TT2 helmet has gained Snell certification and is now available to the public.
  • The Specialized Arc-X glasses mates the Arc-II's sleek styling with the convenience of folding temples.
  • The minimal stainless steel frame is barely attaches to the lens.
  • A new S-Works Turbo clincher tyre uses a supple 220tpi casing.
  • A revised dual radius tread profile still puts more rubber on the road in corners but with a less radical shape that feels more natural as you lean into corners.

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The Micromatrix upper is now softer-feeling and conforms better to the foot than last year's version.

© James Huang/BikeRadar.com