What the Hell is Free-Roading?

WHAT: Specialized TriCross Comp HOW MUCH: $1,700 WHERE: www. specialized.com

Specialized is billing the TriCross as a “freeroad” bike, which is a clever play on the whole freeride culture, but the catch-phrase doesn’t do the TriCross justice.

Although it looks like a typical cyclocross bike, Specialized wanted to create a machine that defined a previously unaddressed cycling subculture. The TriCross is aimed squarely at riders who tackle everything in the course of one ride, from fast-paced road rides to rugged singletrack.

To accomplish this, Specialized gave the bike a slacker head angle than a traditional road bike as well as a shorter toptube, taller headtube and longer wheelbase–all of which allow the TriCross to handle just about any terrain with steely composure and stability.

Just don’t read “stable” as “slow.” Compared to mountain bikes, the TriCross offers lightning-fast acceleration and handling. The stability merely adds a degree of comfort at speed, making it a versatile weapon for mountain bikers looking to venture onto the road as well as roadies itching to get dirty.

No matter how you ride it, the TriCross Comp is well equipped. Our 57-centimeter test bike weighed 21.8-pounds, thanks in part to the 3.5-pound, butted and shaped aluminum frame. A carbon fiber fork and seatpost help take the sting out of off-road adventure and further reduce weight. Cantilever brakes offer solid stopping power while allowing enough clearance to accept 38c tires covered in mud. Finally, brake levers mounted on top of the bar help you maintain control at all times.