"Break the rules."
The slogan “Break the Rules” of the Specialized Aethos 2 refers to the fact that Specialized Bicycle Components deliberately broke with the prevailing design rules of modern road bikes. In short, "Break the Rules" means that the Aethos demonstrates that the fastest or best road bike doesn't always have to come from the wind tunnel – sometimes innovation arises precisely by letting go of established design rules.
Description
More information about the S-Works Aethos 2
Brand new: the Specialized Aethos 2 is a road bike that revolves entirely around pure ride feel. Unlike many modern road bikes that heavily focus on aerodynamics and integration, the Aethos is designed with one goal: to create the most refined riding experience. The frame combines an exceptionally low weight with perfectly balanced stiffness, making the bike feel lively, efficient, and comfortable.
The carbon frame is constructed using advanced lay-up technology from Specialized Bicycle Components. This keeps the frame extremely light while maintaining structural strength and durability. This makes the Aethos 2 particularly suitable for riders who value climbing capabilities, suppleness, and a direct connection to the road.
Lightweight performance and suppleness
The Aethos 2 is known for its low weight and natural ride feel. When climbing and accelerating, the bike responds immediately, while the frame construction effectively dampens small vibrations. This keeps the bike comfortable during long rides and mountainous courses.
Timeless design and refined simplicity
The design of the Aethos 2 has been intentionally minimalist. Slim tube shapes and a classic racing geometry create an elegant appearance that is not dependent on temporary design trends. The result is a bike that is not only light and efficient but also visually timeless.
Ideal platform for a high-end custom build
Thanks to its light and high-quality frame, the Aethos 2 provides an excellent foundation for a custom build. Riders can fully customize the bike with premium wheelsets, lightweight groupsets, and high-quality cockpit components. This creates a bike that is not only exceptionally light but also perfectly matches the rider's wishes and riding style.
Get inspired
Discover some of our recent S-Works builds
A number of recent S-Works builds, assembled with premium components and fully tailored to the rider's preferences, riding style, and desired performance.
Ultralight frame with exceptional riding feel
The Aethos 2 is developed with a strong focus on low weight and balance in the frame. Thanks to its advanced carbon construction, the bike feels light, lively, and responsive, while remaining comfortable during long rides and climbs.
Pure and timeless road bike philosophy
Instead of extreme aerodynamics or complex integration, the Aethos 2 focuses on the essence of cycling: a natural, refined riding experience. The minimalist frame design and balanced geometry create a bike that is both technically and aesthetically timeless.
Groups
Your bike's drivetrain largely determines shifting feel, weight, and performance. That's why we only offer the best options on the market. You can choose from groupsets from Shimano, SRAM, or Campagnolo. Whether you prefer electronic precision, wireless technology, or the character of Italian shifting – we will build your Aethos 2 exactly to your specifications.
On a bike like the Specialized Aethos 2, where everything revolves around pure riding feel and minimal mass, the choice of groupset is even more critical. Every gram, every shift, and every pedal stroke contributes to how the bike feels on the road. That's why we tailor the drivetrain not only to performance but also to your riding style and preferences.
If you choose Shimano Di2, you benefit from unparalleled precision and reliability. Shifting is lightning-fast and consistent, even under high load, which is ideal during climbs and long rides.
If you opt for SRAM AXS, you choose a completely wireless system with a clean, minimalist look. Its intuitive operation and flexible gearing make it a favorite among riders who value simplicity and innovation.
Lovers of tradition and character can choose Campagnolo, where mechanical perfection and Italian craftsmanship come together. The unique shifting feel and finish give your bike an exclusive look and riding experience.
In addition, we look beyond just the group itself. We also fully adapt aspects such as crank length, cassette ratios, and chainring combinations to your usage.
The result is an Aethos 2 that is not only light and efficient but also feels exactly how you want it – down to the smallest detail.
Wheels
The Specialized Aethos 2 is built around pure ride feel and minimal weight. Every component must reinforce that character – which is precisely why we recommend the Roval Alpinist CLX III as the ideal wheelset for this build, though other wheel choices are naturally also possible.
Direct Ride Feel and Comfort
The combination of carbon rims and innovative composite spokes not only ensures stiffness but also a surprisingly smooth ride feel. This perfectly matches the Aethos's philosophy: maximum connection between rider and bike, without unnecessary filtering.
Proven Performance
The performance isn't just theoretical. In practice, this wheelset results in measurable gains: climbs like the Tourmalet are demonstrably ridden faster, with seconds of difference at the top level.
The Perfect Match with the Aethos 2
Where aero wheelsets like the Rapide series focus on speed on flat terrain, the Alpinist CLX III is all about pure climbing and responsiveness. That makes this wheelset the ideal partner for the Aethos 2 – a bike focused on riding pleasure, lightweight, and efficiency.
Additional upgrades
In addition to the standard configuration, optional upgrades are available for a custom build to further refine your bike. These upgrades can lead to improved performance, lower weight, or an even more exclusive finish.
Ceramic bearings
A popular upgrade is the use of ceramic bearings in components such as the bottom bracket, derailleur pulleys, or wheel hubs. Ceramic bearings have less friction than standard steel bearings, which can result in a smoother drivetrain and a small gain in efficiency and wattage.
High-end component upgrades
Many riders choose to further upgrade specific parts, such as lighter cassettes, carbon bottle cages, titanium bolts, or high-performance derailleur pulleys. This can help reduce the overall weight and give the bike an even more exclusive look.
Performance-oriented optimization
Some upgrades are specifically aimed at maximizing performance. Examples include aerodynamic cockpit solutions, high-end wheelsets, or special coatings on parts that reduce friction.
These upgrades are entirely optional and are often chosen by riders who want to optimize their bike down to the smallest detail. When assembling your custom build, we are happy to advise you on which upgrades will truly make a difference for your riding style and goals.
Bicycle jewelry
The final step in assembling a custom bike is what we often call bike jewelry. These are small, high-quality details that give your bike an extra exclusive look and elevate the finish to an even higher level.
Power Meter Integration
If you want to seriously analyze your performance, you can have your bike equipped with a power meter at The Bike Broker. This is one of the most valuable upgrades for training and performance improvement.
A power meter accurately measures how many watts you are pedaling. This allows you to train based on objective data rather than just feel. This way, you can train more precisely, accurately track your progress, and manage your energy more efficiently during long rides or races.
Aesthetic Upgrades
This can include titanium bolts, anodized spacers, premium derailleur pulleys, or special top caps. These subtle details give your bike a unique look and make the build completely personal.
Finish and Exclusivity
Bike jewelry is mainly about the finishing touch. These are small components that refine the look of your bike and perfectly match the rest of your build.
Fully Personalized
Because these parts are often available in different colors and materials, you can fine-tune the style of your bike down to the smallest details.
Bike jewelry is completely optional, but for many riders, this is the final step to truly make their custom build unique.
Total freedom in colour and finish
The Aethos 2 is available in various color schemes and finishes, allowing you to configure the bike in a way that perfectly matches your taste and style.
Discover what customers thought of our custom build service
Custom build reviews
Two weeks ago, I picked up my new SWORKS Tarmac SL7 from The Bike Broker. I had originally planned to just buy a frame and build it up myself with parts from my previous bike. However, because he asked about my plans for the frame (out of genuine interest), he was able to think along with me wonderfully and provided excellent advice. This gave me confidence in the seller. Ultimately, The Bike Broker also built my bike. I'm very satisfied with how that went. He kept me well-informed throughout the building process with photos and relevant questions. I've already ridden the SL7 a few times, and it's truly a fantastic bike.
I had Ferry build my bike. A very pleasant and enjoyable experience, resulting in my dream bike. Ferry takes ample time to discuss the options and is easily accessible for questions. The bike is superbly built, clearly showcasing his knowledge and experience. Top-notch, highly recommended!
Can highly recommend Ferry. Had an initial conversation with him on a potential build and when I decided to pull the trigger he accommodated all my wishes and found me a frame and fully built bike within a month. Ended up with a customized build with mixed parts and he even took care of reselling some of the surplus stuff for me. Top bloke and great service, and always happy to chat about bikes when you drop by!
Ferry from the bike broker made the impossible possible. I was able to customize my dream bike exactly to my wishes thanks to Ferry's connections and knowledge!
Friendly and honest service, hardworking top guy!
Looking for more information?
Frequently Asked Questions about our custom bike process
Start of the process
A custom build is a bicycle that is fully assembled to your specifications. You choose the frame, groupset, wheelset, and all other components so that the bike perfectly matches your riding style and preferences.
The process usually starts with a no-obligation consultation and advice session, during which we discuss your wishes, riding style, budget, and intended use of the bike. Based on this, we propose an initial configuration.
No. Many customers start with a general idea of the type of bike they want. We then help you make the right choices.
Personal guidance for your custom bike
At The Bike Broker, building a custom bicycle is all about personal attention and tailor-made solutions. After all, building a high-end road bike is not a standard process, but a journey where your wishes, riding style, and ambitions are central. That's why we guide you step-by-step in configuring your ideal bicycle.
Listening to your wishes
The process always begins with a personal conversation. During this conversation, we discuss how you ride, what your goals are, and what you find important in a bicycle. Do you primarily ride long tours, fast group rides, or races? Do you prefer maximum aerodynamics, a low weight, or a perfect balance between comfort and speed? Based on this information, we advise you on the ideal frame, for example, a high-performance model like the Colnago Y1Rs, and help you select the right components.
We take care of everything
Once the configuration is determined, we handle the entire process for you. We take care of ordering all parts, check the compatibility of all components, and ensure that everything is perfectly coordinated. This way, you don't have to worry about technical details or complex choices.
Professional assembly
In our workshop, your bicycle is assembled with the utmost precision. Every component is carefully mounted and adjusted so that the bicycle performs optimally. From the assembly of the groupset to the perfect adjustment of brakes and shifting systems: everything is carried out with attention to detail.
Pick up your bike or have it shipped
When your custom bike is completely ready, you can come and pick it up personally. Many customers choose this option so they can immediately see and experience their new bike and have any final adjustments made. Would you prefer to have the bike delivered? Then we will ensure that your bike is professionally packaged and safely shipped to you.
Thanks to the personal guidance from The Bike Broker, you are assured of a custom build that is not only technically perfect but also perfectly suited to your riding style.
Custom vs. Standard High-End Bikes
A standard high-end bicycle comes in a fixed configuration. With a custom build, you and we assemble all the components yourself. This ensures the bicycle is fully tailored to your preferences and riding style.
A custom bike offers more freedom in component choice, better rider matching, and often a more unique appearance.
Not necessarily. In some cases, a custom build can even be more efficient, as you only choose the parts you really want.
Frame & Sizing
We consider the type of bike (road, gravel, or mountain bike), your riding style, body type, and preferences. Based on this, we recommend the frame that best suits you.
We do this based on your height, body proportions, and any existing bike fitting.
Yes. If you have already had a bike fitting, we can use that data to perfectly custom-build the bike.
Construction Process & Delivery
Freedom in component choice
At The Bike Broker, you have complete freedom in assembling your bike. If you opt for a custom build, the possibilities are virtually limitless. From groupset to wheelset and from cockpit to bearings: every component can be selected in consultation so that the bike perfectly matches your riding style, performance, and aesthetic preferences.
We guide you through this process and ensure that all chosen components are technically perfectly matched.
Top-level groupsets
The drivetrain largely determines the character of your bike. That's why we work exclusively with high-quality groupsets from renowned brands such as Shimano, SRAM, and Campagnolo.
Depending on your preference, we can equip your bike with the latest electronic shifting systems, wireless technology, or classic Italian precision. We are happy to advise you on the groupset that best suits your riding style and use.
Premium wheelsets
Wheels have a huge impact on the handling of a road bike. That's why we offer a wide selection of premium wheel brands such as ENVE, Princeton CarbonWorks, Lightweight, and Zipp.
Whether you're looking for ultralight climbing wheels, aerodynamic deep-section wheels, or a versatile all-round wheelset: we'll help you choose the perfect option.
Cockpit, components, and assembly
You can also fully customize the cockpit and assembly to your wishes. This way, we create a bike that not only performs perfectly but also perfectly fits your ergonomics and comfort.
Power meters and performance upgrades
If you want to accurately measure your performance, we can integrate various power meters. In addition, many upgrades are possible, such as high-end bearings, lighter carbon components, or aerodynamic optimizations.
Honest and expert advice
Although the possibilities are virtually unlimited, we believe it's important that every choice truly suits you. That's why we always provide honest and expert advice based on your wishes, riding style, and budget.
Together, we will assemble a configuration that is not only impressive on paper but, more importantly, feels perfect on the road. The result is a custom road bike that perfectly matches your ambitions and expectations.
This depends on the availability of parts. On average, the process takes a few weeks to several months.
In many cases, yes, as long as parts have not yet been ordered or installed.
Yes. Every custom build is assembled and fully adjusted with great precision in our workshop.
Yes. We ship bicycles nationally and internationally and ensure that they arrive insured and professionally packaged. Within the Netherlands, we always try to deliver the bicycle ourselves personally. Picking it up at our location in Dronten is, of course, also possible.
Get inspired
Discover some of our other recent high-end custom builds
From frame and wheelset to the smallest details in assembly and finish. View some of our custom configurations.
Don't let your dream bike remain a dream
Contact
Do you have an idea for your dream bike but would like advice on the possibilities first? Leave your details, and we will contact you without obligation. We are happy to discuss your wishes, riding style, and budget and help you step by step in putting together the perfect bike.
Perhaps you already know exactly what you want, or maybe you are still exploring – we are happy to think along with you. Our custom build specialist will gladly advise you without obligation on frames, groupsets, wheelsets, and all the details that make a custom build unique.
Contact us without obligation to discuss the possibilities. We are happy to think along with you and provide honest advice on the best configuration for your dream bike.
Phone: +31 85 060 9203
E-mail: info@thebikebroker.nl
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