Specialized Allez 16 review

The original RideIn review

The original Allez 16 page placed the model among accessible road bikes for riders moving to drop bars and narrower tyres. RideIn valued its efficient road position, aluminium frame and carbon-bladed fork as a quicker alternative to a conventional hybrid.

The 16-speed drivetrain suited ordinary road riding of the period, but the Allez name has covered many generations and the actual year must be confirmed.

Original listed specification

This is the specification recorded by RideIn for the reviewed model. Components may have changed during the model year or since purchase.

• Entry-level road-bike format
• Aluminium frame with carbon-bladed fork
• 16-speed derailleur drivetrain
• Caliper rim brakes

How to assess a used example now

Consumables such as tyres, chains, cables and brake pads are normal service items. Damage to a proprietary frame, fork, folding mechanism or obsolete component can be far more difficult to resolve.

• Confirm the frame size suits the rider
• Inspect frame and fork for cracks, dents and corrosion
• Check both wheels are true
• Test every gear and both brakes
• Look for drivetrain wear and damaged tyres
• Verify the frame number and ownership history

Road-bike fit and impact checks

Confirm that reach and handlebar drop are comfortable. Inspect the fork, head tube, bars and wheel rims for crash damage and price replacement tyres, drivetrain parts and obsolete standards before buying.

• Brake controls are easy to reach
• Wheels remain true
• Gear range suits local climbs
• Tyre clearance suits the intended roads

Check older components and carbon parts

Count the rear sprockets, identify axle, bottom-bracket and brake standards and verify replacement tyre sizes. A professional inspection is especially valuable for carbon parts or any bicycle with uncertain crash history.

Value and current alternatives

Judge the asking price against condition, service history and immediate work. A maintained older bicycle can be an excellent everyday machine, while a neglected bargain can cost more than a ready-to-ride alternative.

If the bike does not fit, needs safety-critical repairs or depends on unavailable parts, compare current bicycles in the same category before committing.