Specialized has announced its new, more affordable Propero 4 helmet and Torch 2.0 and 3.0 shoes, which all draw inspiration from the brand’s premium S-Works line-up.
The Propero 4 combines the aerodynamic and ventilation properties of the S-Works Evade 3 and Prevail 3 helmets, while the new Torch cycling shoes take their cues from the S-Works Torch.
The Propero 4 helmet will retail for £165 / $200 / €190 / AU$310 in five colour options – Dark Navy Metallic, White, Powder Indigo, Black and Hyper Dove Grey.
The Torch 3.0 shoes will set you back £210 / $250 / €250 / AU$390 and will be available in four colours – Black, White, Oak Green / Moss Green / Limestone and Purple Orchid / Limestone.
The Torch 2.0 shoes will retail for £165 / $180 / €200 / AU$270 and will be available in four colours – Black, White, White Sage and Deep Marine / Terra Cotta.
Specialized Propero 4 helmet details
Specialized says the Propero 4 marries the aerodynamic advantages of the S-Works Evade 3 helmet with the ventilation of the S-Works Prevail 3 at a more affordable price point.
It represents a major redesign over the outgoing Propero 3, which was more of an all-rounder road bike helmet.
Specialized claims the Propero 4 is four watts faster than the S-Works Prevail 3, which, according to the brand, translates to a 15-second advantage over 40km.
Specialized says it drew inspiration from the leading edge of the Evade and used its Win Tunnel (that’s the brand’s in-house wind tunnel) to test and shape the Propero 4.
When Specialized arrived at the two highest-performing prototype shapes, it tested the helmet at different yaw angles to gain an insight into how the helmet would perform in more realistic wind conditions out on the road.
Specialized says ventilation was also a focus and the helmet uses the brand’s new ‘Micro Channeling’ technology. The 2mm-offset micro-channels create turbulence in the airflow throughout the helmet to enable a continuous, refreshing flow of ventilation, Specialized claims.
The Propero 4 incorporates a MIPS C-Solution liner to bolster protection, with the helmet earning a five-star Virginia Tech helmet rating.
There’s in-built storage for glasses and Specialized continues to use its Adjustable Tri-Fix web strap system for claims of added comfort.
Specialized Propero 4 claimed weights:
| Helmet size | Claimed weight (g) |
|---|---|
| Small CE | 270 |
| Medium CE | 290 |
| Large CE | 320 |
| Small CPSC | 290 |
| Medium CPSC | 310 |
| Large CPSC | 340 |
Specialized Torch 2.0 and 3.0 shoes
Specialized has also revamped the Torch 2.0 and Torch 3.0 shoes, sitting between the flagship S-Works Torch at the top of the tree and the Torch 1.0 at the bottom.
Specialized describes the Torch 2.0 and 3.0 as being “meticulously crafted for riders who seek the perfect fusion of a clean, classic aesthetic with unparalleled performance”.
Both shoes are said to now align better with the S-Works Torch in terms of fit, using a slightly wider last than the previous design.
Specialized introduced this on the S-Works Torch as a response to several issues some riders had with the previous S-Works 7.
The Torch 2.0 and 3.0 shoes also use new uppers designed to improve the fit, with an asymmetric cut-out on the outside of the tongue. The asymmetric heel cup found on the S-Works Torch also trickles down to both shoes, in a bid, Specialized says, to provide more instep support.
Unlike the S-Works Torch, where there’s room for adjustment, the cleat holes are fixed on the new shoes, with Specialized wanting to maintain some kind of features gap between its shoes. The cleat holes are at the most forefront location in relation to their positioning on the S-Works Torch.
The heel treads on both shoes isn't replaceable.
Specialized says there is a clear difference in the ride feel between the two new shoes, with the Torch 2.0 aimed at newer riders who may be buying their first carbon-soled cycling shoes, with the Torch 3.0 positioned as a higher-performance option for enthusiasts.
Specialized Torch 3.0 shoe details
The Torch 3.0 is heavily influenced by the S-Works Torch in its appearance. It has a unidirectional carbon sole, dual Boa closure, and a new seamless TPU and mesh upper to improve ventilation.
Specialized says the new upper offers the same support and close-to-foot feel as found on the S-Works Torch, resulting in less movement within the shoe.
The dual Boa Li2 dials offer incremental adjustments in both directions, enabling riders to tighten or loosen in minute increments, rather than the dial fully loosening when released.
Specialized claims a size-42 shoe weighs 288g. The shoe will be offered in sizes from 36 to 49, with half-size options from 38.5 to 46.5.
Specialized Torch 2.0 shoe details
The Torch 2.0 steps down to a fully woven carbon plate and its upper is also less exotic, with what Specialized calls a “fully perforated, single-layer synthetic and seamless upper”.
It uses a single Boa Li2 dial with a Velcro strap at the bottom of the shoe. Specialized says the Velcro strap doesn’t serve any function for fit – it's there to give newer riders reassurance their foot is properly locked in.
Although the Torch 2.0 is a more affordable option, it’s claimed to weigh 20g less (268g) than the Torch 3.0, also in a size 42.
The Torch 2.0 will also be offered in sizes from 36 to 49, but with half-size options from 38.5 to 45.5.
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