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Specialized unveils the Fuelcell
images by Nick Salazar
Oct 10, 2012  hits 30,762

Ben Hoffman's front end - it's all Zipp.
Ben Hoffman's front end - it's all Zipp.
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Specialized launched the new Shiv platform last year, and since then they've continued to expand and support the platform. In Kona they showed off a prototype part for the bike called the Fuelcell, which is an integrated storage box that fits neatly into the bottom of the main triangle. We chatted with Specialized engineer Mark Cote about it, so make sure you check out the article for the full scoop.

Back to article: Specialized unveils the Fuelcell


Tags » hawaii2012,  shiv,  specialized,  storage
  • This is the Shiv with a Fuelcell installed. It's a perfect fit for Specialized's flagship tri bike, and a very easy way to store items on the bike without resorting to bulky bags hanging out in the wind.
  • This shot gives you a good idea for the capacity of the Fuelcell, and shows how Ben Hoffman is using it. There's room to spare in this setup.
  • The rubber hood has a subtle name plate, and is slitted at the top for easy access to the goods. It looks like this prototype doesn't mate quite perfectly with the down tube, but that's the kind of thing that will get refined for production.
  • Here's the slot at the top. The rubber is very flexible, making it easy to reach in and grab your stuff when needed. Good idea!
  • Let's be clear, this bike belongs to the Hoff.
  • Ben Hoffman's front end - it's all Zipp.
  • Specialized has also been showing off their new McLaren helmet whenever possible. It's legal in Kona, since Kona is not governed by USAT and therefore doesn't have to abide by CPSC helmet standards. So many of Specialized's athletes will be using this lid, which tests faster than the CPSC-certified TT2. I think the distinctions start to get dizzying.
  • The McLaren helmets are gorgeous, smooth forms, and seem to fit into recent trends towards shorter-tail helmets with mildly truncated tails, and no frontal vents.
  • The McLaren lid also has the side gills which are for aerodynamics, not ventilation.
  • Our parting shot is a little gem from Specialized athlete Ben Hoffman. The Hoff decorated his Fuelselage with a little paper umbrella. I love it. Ben, if you have the cojones to ride with this on race day, I'll buy you dinner.

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