Hey guys! Are you on the hunt for a versatile gravel bike that can handle pretty much anything you throw at it? Let's dive deep into the Specialized Diverge E5 Elite 2022. This bike has been making waves in the gravel riding community, and for good reason. Whether you're a seasoned gravel grinder or just getting started, understanding what this bike offers is crucial. In this comprehensive review, we'll break down everything from its frame and components to its performance on various terrains.

Frame and Design

The Specialized Diverge E5 Elite 2022 features an E5 Premium Aluminum frame, which is known for its durability and lightweight properties. This is a big deal because, when you're tackling long gravel rides, a lighter frame can make a significant difference in reducing fatigue. The frame is designed with what Specialized calls their 'Open Road Geometry', which essentially means it strikes a balance between being comfortable for long days in the saddle and responsive enough for tackling technical sections.

One of the standout features of the Diverge E5 Elite is its future shock. This innovative system provides 20mm of compliance at the head tube, which helps to absorb bumps and vibrations from the road or trail. Trust me, your hands and wrists will thank you after a few hours on rough gravel. The frame also includes plenty of mounting points for racks, fenders, and bottles, making it a fantastic option for bikepacking or commuting. Specialized really thought about versatility with this design.

Moreover, the internal cable routing gives the bike a clean, sleek look while also protecting the cables from dirt and debris. The frame's clearance allows for wide tires, which is essential for gravel riding. You can easily fit tires up to 700x42c, giving you plenty of grip and comfort. Overall, the frame design of the Diverge E5 Elite 2022 is well-thought-out, focusing on comfort, versatility, and durability. The aluminum frame provides a solid foundation for all your gravel adventures. For those who value a blend of modern technology and practical design, this bike frame is definitely worth considering. The attention to detail in areas like cable routing and mounting points further enhances its appeal, making it a top contender in its category.

Components and Features

When it comes to the components of the Specialized Diverge E5 Elite 2022, you’re getting a solid package that balances performance and value. The bike is equipped with a Shimano GRX groupset, which is specifically designed for gravel riding. The GRX shifters and derailleurs offer smooth and reliable shifting, even in challenging conditions. This is super important when you're grinding up a steep, loose gravel climb or bombing down a bumpy descent. The hydraulic disc brakes provide excellent stopping power, giving you confidence and control in all types of weather.

Let's talk about the wheels. The Diverge E5 Elite comes with Axis Elite Disc wheels, which are durable and reliable. While they might not be the lightest wheels on the market, they are more than capable of handling the rigors of gravel riding. The tires are Specialized Pathfinder Sport, which are designed to provide a good balance of grip and rolling efficiency on a variety of surfaces. These tires are tubeless-ready, which is a nice bonus. Setting them up tubeless can improve ride quality and reduce the risk of flats. The Future Shock mentioned earlier is a game-changer, providing 20mm of suspension at the front, which drastically reduces fatigue on long rides.

In addition to the Shimano GRX groupset and Axis Elite Disc wheels, the bike features a comfortable and ergonomic saddle. The handlebar is designed for gravel riding, providing a comfortable hand position and good control. The stem is adjustable, allowing you to fine-tune your riding position. Overall, the components of the Specialized Diverge E5 Elite 2022 are well-chosen, offering a great blend of performance, reliability, and value. The Shimano GRX groupset is a standout feature, providing smooth and reliable shifting that is essential for gravel riding. The hydraulic disc brakes offer excellent stopping power, giving you confidence and control in all conditions. The Axis Elite Disc wheels are durable and reliable, and the Specialized Pathfinder Sport tires provide a good balance of grip and rolling efficiency. This bike is equipped to handle any adventure you throw its way.

Ride Quality and Performance

Alright, let's get to the fun part: how does the Specialized Diverge E5 Elite 2022 actually ride? In short, it's fantastic. The Open Road Geometry provides a comfortable and stable ride, making it ideal for long days in the saddle. The bike handles well on a variety of surfaces, from smooth pavement to rough gravel roads. The Future Shock is a game-changer, soaking up bumps and vibrations and reducing fatigue. This is especially noticeable on washboarded gravel roads, where the Future Shock helps to keep your front wheel planted and your hands comfortable. Climbing on the Diverge E5 Elite is efficient, thanks to the lightweight frame and responsive geometry. The Shimano GRX gearing provides a wide range of gears, making it easy to find the right gear for any climb.

Descending on gravel can be a bit tricky, but the Diverge E5 Elite handles it with ease. The hydraulic disc brakes provide excellent stopping power, giving you confidence and control. The wide tires offer plenty of grip, even on loose gravel. The stable geometry and Future Shock help to keep the bike planted and predictable, even at high speeds. One of the things that stands out about the Diverge E5 Elite is its versatility. It's equally at home on smooth pavement as it is on rough gravel roads. This makes it a great choice for riders who want a bike that can do it all. Whether you're commuting to work, exploring backroads, or tackling a gravel race, the Diverge E5 Elite is up to the task. The ride quality is smooth and comfortable, thanks to the Open Road Geometry and Future Shock. The handling is responsive and predictable, making it easy to control in all conditions.

Furthermore, the bike's performance is impressive, with efficient climbing, confident descending, and smooth riding on a variety of surfaces. Overall, the Specialized Diverge E5 Elite 2022 is a joy to ride. Its comfortable geometry, innovative features, and versatile performance make it a top choice for gravel riders of all levels. If you're looking for a bike that can handle anything you throw at it, the Diverge E5 Elite is definitely worth considering. The combination of stability, comfort, and responsiveness makes it a standout in the gravel bike market. It’s truly a versatile machine that inspires confidence on every ride.

Pros and Cons

Okay, let’s break down the good and the not-so-good about the Specialized Diverge E5 Elite 2022.

Pros:

• Versatility: This bike can handle a wide range of terrains, from pavement to gravel.
• Comfort: The Open Road Geometry and Future Shock provide a smooth and comfortable ride.
• Components: The Shimano GRX groupset offers reliable performance.
• Mounting Points: Plenty of mounts for racks, fenders, and bottles.
• Value: Great bang for your buck, offering a lot of features for the price.

Cons:

• Wheels: The Axis Elite Disc wheels are durable but not the lightest.
• Weight: At around 22 pounds, it's not the lightest gravel bike on the market.
• Stock tires: While the Pathfinder Sport tires are good, some riders may want to upgrade to something more aggressive for technical terrain.

Ultimately, the pros of the Specialized Diverge E5 Elite 2022 far outweigh the cons. The bike’s versatility, comfort, and reliable components make it a great choice for gravel riders of all levels. While the wheels and weight could be improved, these are minor drawbacks compared to the bike's overall performance. If you're looking for a versatile and capable gravel bike that won't break the bank, the Diverge E5 Elite is definitely worth considering. It’s a solid all-around performer that will provide you with countless miles of gravel adventures. With its well-rounded features and affordable price point, it’s a top contender in the gravel bike market.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final word on the Specialized Diverge E5 Elite 2022? It’s a fantastic gravel bike that offers a great blend of performance, versatility, and value. Whether you're a seasoned gravel grinder or just getting started, this bike has something to offer. The Open Road Geometry provides a comfortable and stable ride, while the Future Shock soaks up bumps and vibrations. The Shimano GRX groupset delivers smooth and reliable shifting, and the hydraulic disc brakes offer excellent stopping power. Sure, the wheels could be lighter, and the weight could be lower, but these are minor drawbacks compared to the bike's overall performance.

If you're looking for a gravel bike that can handle anything you throw at it, the Specialized Diverge E5 Elite 2022 is definitely worth considering. It's equally at home on smooth pavement as it is on rough gravel roads, making it a great choice for riders who want a bike that can do it all. The bike's versatility, comfort, and reliable components make it a standout in the gravel bike market. It’s a solid all-around performer that will provide you with countless miles of gravel adventures. I highly recommend giving this bike a test ride and seeing for yourself what all the hype is about. You won’t be disappointed! The Specialized Diverge E5 Elite 2022 is a true winner in its class, offering a compelling package for gravel enthusiasts of all levels.