About this product
The Specialized S-Works Aethos 2 Frameset is an ultralight performance road platform built around a 595g FACT 12r carbon frame, refined handling and a more accommodating fit.
The second-generation Aethos preserves the responsive, smooth ride character of the original while adding greater tire clearance, updated performance-endurance geometry and clean hidden cable routing for a more versatile modern road build.
595g FACT 12r Carbon Frame
The S-Works Aethos 2 uses Specialized's premium FACT 12r carbon construction, with the frame weighing approximately 595 grams.
Rather than relying on oversized aerodynamic tube profiles, the Aethos platform uses carefully optimized tube shapes and carbon layup to achieve the stiffness, responsiveness and low weight required for performance road riding.
Flow State Design
Specialized developed the Aethos using its Flow State Design approach, analyzing how a bicycle frame responds under load and using that information to refine tube shapes and carbon placement.
The result is a lightweight chassis designed around ride quality and efficient power transfer rather than aerodynamics alone.
Rider First Engineered Ride Quality
The S-Works Aethos 2 uses Rider First Engineered™ construction, allowing Specialized to tune each frame size individually.
This approach is designed to maintain a consistent balance of responsiveness, stiffness and ride feel across the full size range.
Updated Performance Endurance Geometry
For the Aethos 2, Specialized revised the geometry to create a more accessible performance position without removing the responsive character of the original.
Compared with the previous generation, the Aethos 2 gains approximately 15mm of additional stack, helping reduce pressure on the hands, neck and shoulders.
More Stable, Confident Handling
The second-generation Aethos also receives subtle geometry changes designed to increase confidence at speed.
Specialized lengthened the wheelbase by approximately 7mm and slackened the head tube angle by around 0.5 degrees compared with the previous generation.
Lower Bottom Bracket
A bottom bracket positioned approximately 3mm lower helps create a more connected feeling with the road while complementing the bike's increased tire clearance.
The changes are designed to retain quick steering while adding stability for fast descents and longer road rides.
Up to 35mm Tire Clearance
The Aethos 2 increases tire clearance to accommodate tires measuring up to approximately 35mm.
This gives riders more freedom to choose higher-volume road tires for improved comfort, grip and control on rough pavement without moving the Aethos away from its performance-road focus.
Hidden Cable Routing with Practical Standards
The S-Works Aethos 2 combines a cleaner modern appearance with practical component standards for custom builds.
The FACT 12r frame uses hidden cable routing, a threaded bottom bracket, flat-mount disc brakes and modern thru-axles.
FACT 12r Carbon Fork
The matching S-Works Aethos 2 FACT 12r carbon fork uses a 12x100mm thru-axle and flat-mount disc-brake interface.
At the rear, the frame uses a 12x142mm thru-axle.
Built for a Custom Road Bike
As a frameset, the S-Works Aethos 2 gives riders the freedom to build around their preferred drivetrain, wheels and cockpit.
Specialized also includes a Roval Alpinist carbon seatpost, creating a lightweight starting point for a performance-focused custom road build.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the S-Works Aethos 2 frame weigh?
Specialized lists the FACT 12r frame at approximately 595 grams. Actual weight can vary slightly by size, paint and production variation.
What is the tire clearance on the Aethos 2?
The Aethos 2 platform supports tires up to approximately 35mm, giving it greater versatility than the previous generation.
What is the difference between the S-Works Aethos 2 Frameset and the standard Aethos 2 Frameset?
The S-Works version uses FACT 12r carbon and has a claimed frame weight of approximately 595g. The standard Aethos 2 Frameset uses FACT 10r carbon and is listed at approximately 705g.
Does the S-Works Aethos 2 use a threaded bottom bracket?
Yes. The frameset uses a threaded bottom bracket, maintaining a practical and serviceable standard for custom builds.
What seatpost comes with the S-Works Aethos 2 Frameset?
Specialized lists a Roval Alpinist carbon seatpost with the S-Works Aethos 2 Frameset.
Description supplied by Epic Cycles through its current Shopify listing. Product, performance, and health claims are the seller’s and have not been independently verified by StorkScout.
