Specialized Allez 2026 Sizing & Cockpit Tips
Road: target a slightly lower front (more drop) if flexibility allows; endurance setups often prefer a bit more stack.
Sizing considerations
- Measure inseam/torso/arm accurately and consider your flexibility.
- Between sizes? Decide comfort vs. aero/playful, and how much you will adjust with stem/spacers.
- Endurance road: begin with a moderate bar drop; reduce spacers gradually as flexibility allows.
Position targets
- Bar drop (saddle→bar): moderate to low; reduce spacers over time as comfort improves.
- Saddle height: start from inseam-based estimate; fine-tune by feel (no hip rock) and power balance.
- Bar width: near shoulder width for endurance; narrower for aero.
Example fit scenarios (generic, not model geometry)
170 cm · medium flex
Increase aero gradually; remove spacers in small steps.
180 cm · high flex
Increase aero gradually; remove spacers in small steps.
190 cm · low flex
Increase aero gradually; remove spacers in small steps.
Use these as a safe starting point. Fine-tune inside the free fit once you have measurements.
Common cockpit tweaks
Small changes in stem length and spacers have clear effects on reach and drop. Use the table below as a quick guide.
| Adjustment | Effect at the hands |
|---|---|
| Stem ±10 mm | ≈ reach at the hands ±6–8 mm |
| Spacers +5 / +10 / +20 mm | Drop reduced by 5 / 10 / 20 mm |
| Bar width | Close to shoulder width; narrower = more aero, wider = more stable |
Exact numbers require personal measurements in the tool. Try it for free above.
Pro tips
- Change one thing at a time; re-test for 2–3 rides.
- Use 5–10 mm spacer/stem steps for measurable differences.
- If hands go numb, first reduce drop (add 5–10 mm spacers) before swapping bars.
Common mistakes
- Chasing ‘pro’ positions without matching flexibility.
- Changing stem and spacers simultaneously (hard to learn what helped).
- Too-narrow bars causing shoulder/neck tension.
Troubleshooting
Hand numbness
Reduce bar drop by adding 5–10 mm spacers; verify bar tilt and hood angle.
Lower back tightness
Reduce drop and/or shorten reach (−10 mm stem) in small steps.
Knee discomfort (front)
Lower saddle 3–5 mm; check cleat fore/aft; increase cadence.
Knee discomfort (back)
Raise saddle 3–5 mm; ensure you’re not overextending hips.
Between sizes?
- Comfort / long rides / stability → Choose the larger size
- Aero / playful handling → Choose the smaller size
- Willing to adjust? → Keep the smaller size and compensate with stem/spacers
FAQ
How do I choose a size for the Specialized Allez (2026)?
Start with body metrics and flexibility. If you’re between two sizes: go up for comfort/stability or down for aero/playfulness, and compensate with stem/spacers.
How does flexibility affect my position?
Lower flexibility ⇒ higher stack and shorter reach; higher flexibility ⇒ lower stack and longer reach. Adjust gradually.
Can I fine-tune the cockpit after buying?
Yes. Small changes in stem/spacers have measurable effects on drop and reach. Our free tool guides you step by step.