New Bike Tech, Pro Racing Drama, and Giro Twists: Your Cycling Update

Get ready for a dose of the latest from the cycling world! This week, we’ve spotted what looks like a brand-new gravel bike from Specialized, got the official details on Canyon’s intriguing suspension fork developed with DT Swiss, and witnessed major shake-ups and surprising wins in the Giro d’Italia.

Specialized’s Next Gravel Machine Spotted?

Could a new Specialized Diverge be on the horizon? An intriguing bike, ridden by SRAM athlete Annika Langvad, was seen just before the Unbound gravel race. This sighting suggests potential updates to Specialized’s popular gravel line, which currently includes the adventure-focused Diverge STR with its unique seatpost suspension and the more race-oriented Crux.

The prototype bike features a key update: a UDH (Universal Derailleur Hanger) rear triangle. This is a move away from the traditional hanger used on the current Diverge and aligns it with the latest drivetrain standards, particularly relevant for SRAM’s direct-mount groupsets like the Red AXS XPLR seen on Langvad’s bike.

While the front of the bike keeps familiar elements like fork leg mounting bolts and the Future Shock suspension system integrated into the head tube, one detail stands out. The fork crown looks wider than the current Diverge STR, which fits up to 47 mm tires. This hints that the potential new model might follow the trend of allowing for even wider rubber, perhaps 50 mm or more, offering riders more comfort and capability on rougher terrain.

Canyon and DT Swiss Launch Gravel Suspension Fork

After appearing on pro bikes for weeks, the collaboration between Canyon and DT Swiss on a dedicated gravel suspension fork is now official. Dubbed the RIFT (Rough Is Fast Tuning – yes, that’s the name!), this fork is the result of four years of development and brings 40 mm of suspension travel to the front end of a gravel bike.

Known as the DT Swiss F 132 fork, it features an adjustable air spring and rebound settings, allowing riders to fine-tune the suspension feel. For those smooth stretches or climbs, there’s a convenient lockout lever mounted near the stem that’s easy to reach from both the handlebars’ hoods and drops.

Beyond just suspension, the fork is designed with practicality in mind, including universal sleeve mounts on the legs for attaching racks or bags, supporting up to 3 kg per side – great news for bikepackers. This innovative fork is currently exclusive to Canyon’s top-tier Grail CFR RIFT model, which is priced at €7,999 and comes equipped with a Shimano GRX 825 Di2 groupset.

Canyon DT Swiss F 132 gravel suspension fork with lever

Giro d’Italia Drama: Roglič Out, Del Toro Bounces Back

The Giro d’Italia saw significant shifts in fortunes this week, particularly for pre-race contenders. Primož Roglič (Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe), who had been battling injuries from previous crashes, ultimately had to abandon the race during stage 16.

His performance coach, Marc Lamberts, revealed that Roglič started stage 16 severely limited by his injuries, doing so “out of respect for his teammates.” He had been struggling even with minimal effort off the bike. Despite his champion’s spirit, another crash sealed his decision to withdraw.

Meanwhile, race leader Isaac del Toro (UAE Team Emirates-XRG) showed resilience after a tough stage 16. The young Mexican powered to an impressive solo victory on stage 17, attacking on the final climb and riding away from his companions in the closing kilometers. This win was a morale boost following a stage where several GC contenders faced difficulties.

Ineos Grenadiers rider Josh Tarling also exited the Giro after a crash on stage 16, marking his second consecutive early Grand Tour abandonment due to a fall.

For a detailed look at Stage 16’s dramatic GC shake-up and the stage win from the breakaway, you can read more about it here.

Van der Poel Sustains Wrist Fracture, Tour Hopes Intact?

Star rider Mathieu van der Poel (Alpecin-Deceuninck) suffered a minor setback, diagnosed with a minor avulsion fracture of the scaphoid bone in his wrist after crashing twice during a UCI MTB World Series race. This type of fracture often indicates ligament damage and requires careful recovery.

The injury means Van der Poel will miss the start of his team’s altitude training camp. His participation in the upcoming Critérium du Dauphiné is uncertain and will depend on further medical evaluations later in the week.

Despite the fracture, Van der Poel was quick to get back on a bike, posting a video cycling indoors on Zwift with a wrist brace, showing his determination and potentially good signs for his recovery timeline ahead of the Tour de France.

Primož Roglič rides in the Giro d'Italia

Pro Peloton News: Retirements and Comebacks

Looking beyond the immediate race action, a few notable names in the peloton have announced their plans.

Veteran Australian rider Simon Clarke (Israel–Premier Tech) will conclude his extensive 17-year career with a final push on home soil in early 2026. Known for his stage win at the Tour de France and his role as road captain, he’s been a fixture in the peloton.

Spanish time trial specialist Jonathan Castroviejo has confirmed that 2025 will be his final season as a professional. He shared his gratitude for the sport and the experiences it has given him.

Meanwhile, Mikel Landa (Soudal Quick-Step) is targeting a return at the Vuelta a España after fracturing a vertebra in a crash on Stage 1 of the Giro. He reported his recovery is progressing well and hopes to be back on the bike by June, shifting his focus to the season’s final Grand Tour.

US National Championships: Faulkner and Simmons Take Titles

Stateside, the USA Pro Road Championships saw Kristen Faulkner (EF Education–Oatly) successfully defend her elite women’s road race title in a close sprint finish in Charleston. Faulkner made a decisive move late in the race, highlighting her versatility.

In the elite men’s race, Quinn Simmons (Lidl–Trek) dominated with a strong solo attack, securing his second national road title. His commanding win sends a clear message as he looks towards potential Grand Tour selections.

From innovative bike tech sightings to the highs and lows of Grand Tour racing, the cycling world continues to deliver excitement on and off the road.

You can dive deeper into the Giro d’Italia stage wins and GC battles here and here.