Beyond Gender
We design for the individual, and our philosophy is simple: Don’t make a difference where there isn’t one. When there is, we invest heavily in research and development. We’ll only make male- or female-specific products when there’s data to support the decision and a true performance benefit.
The Largest Set of Rider Data Drives Our Decisions
Our acquisition of Retül led us to question all our assumptions and to amass more data than any other cycling brand. This data is now the source of truth for every product we make, so every rider measurement in the field leads to better products for you. So, rest assured that the Specialized product you invest in was built off of everything we’ve learned from thousands of riders before you.
Bike Geometry
Through continued research, and with data from over 8,000 Retül Fits, we’ve learned that all riders are unique, and that the stereotypes of body shape are largely inaccurate. Body proportions vary as much within a gender as between them. Based on this, all of our bike platforms are designed for all riders. This brings the highest level of technology and the widest range of fit options.
Touchpoints & Spec
We’ve measured the sit bone widths of 95,000 riders, and this data led our decision to spec bikes with 143mm and 155mm saddle widths across the spectrum of sizes, as 85% of all riders fit within this range. And for bike spec, Retül allows us to make data-driven decisions to increase both comfort and performance.
Research & Development
There are still a few key areas where women and men are different. So, when there’s a difference, we invest heavily in research and development to ensure that all riders get to experience the perfect ride. Numbness and pain experienced by women when riding wasn’t OK with us, so we developed the Women’s Power saddle with MIMIC technology, which creates equilibrium within soft tissue to relieve pressure. Data shows that the sizing and structure of men’s and women’s hands are different, which is why we will continue to create gloves for both genders.
Shoes
Between 600 Retül Match Towers and the Digital Foot Device, we’ve collected foot measurements from 12,000 riders. We now know that men and women have nearly the same foot structure. And while men’s feet are usually larger, they don’t vary from women’s feet in terms of width or shape. That’s why we make shoes that give all riders the widest fit range with more color options.
