Gear Break: Specialized Aethos 2, Mavic Cosmic Ultimate 45 Disc, Cycology Long Sleeve Jersey, Rapha Pro Team Winter Tights III, Pashley Cycles Skyline, Kreuza Slice Bottle

Welcome to another edition of PEZ Gear Break. This week, we feature the highly anticipated Specialized Aethos 2, a bike that five years after the original breaks the rules, again. We also have a look at Mavic’s stunning Cosmic Ultimate 45 Disc wheels, a versatile steel small-wheel bike from Pashley, and an aero water bottle (and cage) from KREUZA. With the seasons changing, we check out new fall and winter apparel from Cycology and Rapha to keep you riding in comfort and style.

Specialized Aethos 2
Break the rules

On October 8, 2020, Specialized shook up the performance cycling category when it released the original Aethos. Specialized had long declared “aero is everything,” but the Aethos was a premium road bike with no aerodynamic features and not intended for racing. That was five years ago, a lifetime in the performance cycling segment…

But, “Big S” wasn’t coasting, and on October 2nd, Specialized revealed to the world the new Aethos 2. Declaring they “broke the rules,” the new Aethos maintains the original emphasis on ride quality and low weight. But, Specialized, who also proclaim “innovate or die,” have boosted tire clearance, revised geometry toward comfort, and equipped the Aethos with full internal cable routing. All of this while keeping the weight insanely low.

What’s the same?

Specialized didn’t break all of the rules. It still uses at the ultra reliable threaded BSA standard bottom bracket. They have not opted for “aero optimization” of the tubes or seat post, nor have they “dropped” the seat stays. Speaking of the seat post, Specialized still offer all builds and framesets with the ultra-light round 27.2mm Roval Alpinist.

Key changes

• Refined geometry: Drawing on its vast database of Body Geometry fit data, Specialized adapted the frame’s geometry for endurance and comfort.
  • Specialized increased stack height by 15mm, placing it between the Tarmac and Roubaix.
  • They slackened the head tube angle by half a degree, while lengthening the wheelbase by 7mm for increased stability.
  • A 3mm lower bottom bracket further improves stability by creating a lower center of gravity.
• Increased tire clearance: The new Aethos 2 accommodates tires up to 35mm wide, adding versatility for riders who want more comfort or want an “all-road” experience. Large volume slicks open up a wider selection of routes to riders, or simply just let them “play some jazz” while on the course without fear of being underbiked when turning onto that gravel route.
• Internal cable routing: The new Aethos 2 departs from the previous model’s exposed cables and brake hoses around the headset. Specialized have equipped the Aethos 2 with the new Roval Alpinist one-piece cockpit and utilize an integrated headset to achieve full internal cable routing. The resulting design cue is sure to win some converts to the Aethos, but it may alienate riders who opted for the original Aethos with its traditionalist approach of eschewing proprietary bits that have become de rigueur on high end race bikes.
• Universal Derailleur Hanger (UDH): The Aethos 2 features UDH, which provides a widely available standard for replacement hangers.
• Weight gain: The Aethos 2 frame is 10g heavier than its predecessor. Consider the addition of fulling internal cable routing and the UDH standard, the 10g gain is impressive. Despite the added grams, the Aethos 2 still maintains its status as one of the lightest production bikes available. The S-Works FACT 12r frame weighs a mere 595g (the full 56cm frameset with fork, seat post and binder is 1,240g). While a complete build S-Works with SRAM Red has a claimed weight of just 5.8kg. A Pro level FACT 10r frame will tip the scale at 705g, only 20g heavier than the S-Works FACT 12r Tarmac SL8.

Aero is (not) everything, but it matters

The original Aethos, launched in 2020, was a departure for Specialized, known for its “aero is everything” mantra. Specialized presented it as a bike focused on the “love of riding” rather than racing. The bike was built without aero shaped tubes and used exposed cabling out front. Instead, it uncompromisingly focused on being the lightest road bike in the world.

The Aethos 2 continues this lightweight narrative, despite a modest weight gain of 10g in the S-Works configuration. (BTW, 10g is roughly the same weight as two credit cards, regardless the credit limit!) But, the one-piece Alpinist cockpit has moved the Aethos toward the aero design language that Specialized helped pioneer. In addition, the updated geometry is more endurance and comfort focused. This should surely broaden its appeal, and make it more accessible to riders who don’t fancy race bikes with aggressive geometry.

Model tiers and pricing

Specialized offer complete builds in three tiers and framesets:

• S-Works: Option for SRAM Red AXS or Shimano Dura-Ace Di2, $13,999.99.
• Pro: Available with SRAM Force AXS or Shimano Ultegra Di2, $8,499.99.
• Expert: Available with SRAM Force AXS or Shimano Ultegra Di2, from $6,599.
• S-Works and standard framesets are also available for purchase starting at $3,499.99.

For all the details of the new Aethos, the new Alpinist cockpit, and much more, head on over to Specialized.com.

Cosmic Ultimate 45 Disc
The quest for wheel perfection

After featuring the new Cosmic SLR45 with ceramic bearings last week, we figured we’d show you the newest top tier Mavic road wheel set this week. The Cosmic Ultimate 45 Disc is the virtuous combination of handcrafted savoir-faire and the latest composite material innovations from our engineers, developed through advanced wind tunnel testing and proven at the highest level of competition. These wheels represent the result of an incredible quest for perfection.

This is a wheelset born from a meticulous, handcrafted process. Designed and built in Mavic’s French workshop, each wheel requires over eight hours of attention to position and assemble its 71 individual carbon components. The result is a true monobloc construction, where the rim, spokes, and hub are molded into a single, cohesive unit using the exclusive R2R (Rim-to-Rim) technology. This monobloc design ensures incredible stiffness for explosive acceleration under every pedal stroke, precise cornering, and instant braking response.

Rolling efficiency is boosted by the use of Mavic Ceramic bearings, which reduce friction and enhance reliability. Aerodynamics are handled by the 45mm deep, NACA-inspired rim profile. The Aero Wide Rim features a 23mm internal width, which creates a smoother transition between the rim and wider tires, reducing micro-turbulence and improving handling at high speeds. The patented Aero Spokes, developed through extensive wind tunnel testing, can save up to 5W of energy compared to flat spokes.

At just 1260g for the pair, the Cosmic Ultimate 45 Disc sets a new benchmark in performance for the all-around modern road cyclist, delivering speed and control on any road surface. The tapeless, undrilled rim bed also guarantees a hassle-free tubeless setup.

Technical Specifications

• Weight (Pair): 1260 g (575 g Front / 685 g Rear)
• Rim Profile: NACA-inspired, 45 mm height
• Internal Rim Width: 23 mm
• External Rim Width (Max): 32 mm
• Rim Type: 100% Carbon Fiber, Undrilled (Tubeless no tape required), Hooked profile
• Spokes: 20 Front & Rear, R2R (Rim to Rim) unidirectional carbon
• Bearings: Mavic Ceramic
• Freehub: Instant Drive 360 (ID360) with HG light or XDR freehub options
• Brake Interface: Centerlock Disc
• Axle Compatibility: 12×100 Front / 12×142 Rear

Pricing

MSRP: $5,989.00 (USD) / €4,399 (EUR)

To learn more about the Mavic Ultimate 45 Disc, head over to mavic.com.

Editor’s note: The price in USD is tariff inclusive and reflects pricing at Mavic.com on October 10, 2025.

Cycology Long Sleeve Jerseys and Long Sleeve Base Layer
Layer up!

Chuck sez: It’s fall. Shoulder/transition season. The days are getting shorter and cooler (but at least not truly cold here in the Lowcountry). That time of year to think about layering up. If it’s just cool-ish (and if you’re expecting it to warm up during the ride), a sleeveless base layer and arm warmers might be all you need. But if it’s cool bordering on cold (and depending on your tolerance for cold), you might opt for a long sleeve jersey and maybe a long sleeve base layer.

If that’s a viable option, Cycology has a lot of fun and colorful options to offer. PEZ got their Maui and Inspire long sleeve jerseys and Gangsta long sleeve baselayer.

Cycology Long Sleeve Jerseys

Maui Summer Long Sleeve Jersey – $119.95

Inspire Summer Long Sleeve Jersey – $119.95

NOTE: The jerseys PEZ got were Cycology’s summer/lightweight jerseys long sleeve (they also make winter long sleeve jerseys that are fleece-lined for colder weather).

Zip-lock packaging and hang tags attached with bulb safety pins are high end touches

Construction-wise, Cycology’s long sleeve jersey’s are basically a long-sleeve version of their short-sleeve jerseys:

• A front panel consisting of two parts that connect via a full-length zipper (with a lock-down zipper pull to keep it in place)
• Two side panels
• A single rear panel (with the requisite three rear pockets plus a secure zipper pocket) that has a gripper strip at the hem
• Raglan sleeves (with hemmed sleeve ends) that provide better fit and articulation at the shoulders
• Mock neck collar (with a zipper flap to prevent rub)
• All the panels are flat-stitched

To zip or not to zip, that is the question

The front panel and sleeves a “solid” stretch fabric. The side and rear panels are a micro mesh for wicking. Although billed as a lightweight long sleeve summer cycling jersey, for me it’s more of a ‘tweener jersey. It would definitely be too warm for me for Lowcountry summer riding when it’s hot and humid with temps in the 80s/90s F (if I was someone who needed the UV protection provided by the long sleeves, I would opt for one of Cycology’s sun sleeves that are lightweight and breathable). But is just “heavy” enough to provide some insulation (especially with a base layer) when the temperature drops below 70F. So close to Goldilocks “just right” for me for fall riding (especially on cloudy/overcast days) in the Lowcountry (I know everyone’s tolerance for cold is different — and I’m of Filipino ethnic heritage and not as hardy as my nordic riding buddies — so YMMV).

Fit-wise, the Cycology summer long sleeve jerseys in size small fit me (5’8″, 130 pounds, ectomorph) comfortably snug, but not shrink wrap race fit tight. I’m more than comfortable with the latter, but guessing that more riders will prefer the former.

Words to inspire

Of course, what sets Cycology apart from the crowd are all their different designs that are created by Sarina Tomchin. The Maui long sleeve jersey is essentially an aloha shirt design and reminds me of all my summers as a kid spent in Hawaii at my grandparents’. And it’s a perfect vibe for riding in Hilton Head, which is a beach/resort area. At first glance from a distance, the Inspire long sleeve jersey appears to be orange with some black striping. But upon closer inspection, the orange is filled with subtle inspiring words motivated by a song giving advice about life, but with Sarina’s take to make it about cycling. Cycology’s other summer long sleeve jersey designs:

• Koa Samui
• Zanzibar
• Velo Tattoo
• 8 Days
• Life Behind Bars
• Horizon
• Summit
• Bike Graffiti

Cycology Long Sleeve Base Layers

The Cycology long sleeve base layer is essentially a long-sleeve t-shirt (with raglan sleeves and hemmed sleeve ends) and a mock collar. Like their summer long-sleeve jerseys, all the seams are flat-stitched. The stretch fabric is mid-weight and brushed — so soft against bare skin. On me, size small was form fitting with mild compression.

Gangsta Long Sleeve Base Layer – $49.95

For me, the Cycology long sleeve base layer is perfect for some added warmth under their summer long sleeve jersey. Everyone’s tolerance for cold is different, but for me that means once the temps are down to the mid/low-60s F — especially if it’s cloudy/overcast and with a little wind.

And not that anyone is going to see it since it’s a base layer, but I love the Gangsta design!

The Gangsta base layer is almost too cool to wear under a jersey

Other fun long sleeve base layer designs:

• City of Angels
• Tattoo
• Zanzibar
• Horizon
• Wisdom
• Life Behind Bars

I decided to go Gangsta matchy-matchy. Check out all the different Cycology cycling wallets here. (My daughter’s old iPhone 6S Plus for reference.)

Fall riding in the Lowcountry

As I type, we’ve had several mornings with temps in the low 60s F. But daytime temps are still in the 70s (and sometimes even 80s). I mean, one of the reasons we re-located south was for warmer weather. But by November, we should be experiencing consistently 60s temps. And winters are generally mild enough that I only need true winter kit on very few occasions. So I’ll definitely be doing more than my share of riding layered up with my Cycology Gangsta Long Sleeve Baselayer and either my Inspire or Maui Summer Long Sleeve Jersey.

Rapha Pro Team Winter Tights III
Evolved winter training

Rapha, the Soho-based (or is it Bentonville, Arkansas?) purveyors of bespoke high-performance cycling apparel, have rolled out the latest evolution of their flagship cold-weather bottoms: the Pro Team Winter Tights III. These tights are available in a men’s specific and women’s specific version cut for the differences in body shape and with appropriate features for both.  Rapha squarely aimed these tights at the most dedicated rider looking to log serious winter mileage.

Rapha sez: “An evolution of the Pro Team Tights brings improved winter riding performance, providing the ultimate in protection, comfort and support.”

Key Features for Elite Winter Training

Let’s get straight to the details:

• Weather protection: Wind-blocking front panels with PFAS-free durable water resistant (DWR) coating. DWR coating to back of knee to protect from road spray.
• Thermal comfort: Gridded fabric structure locks in warmth. Additional Italian thermal fabric at back of knee.
• Moisture wicking: Gridded fabric draws moisture away from the skin.
• WorldTour-level chamois: Increased foam density and reticulated structure improves stability, moisture management and airflow. Seamless construction maximises comfort.
• Engaged fit: Compressive, supportive feel in the legs. Ergonomic elasticated upper for freedom of movement.
• Women’s “drop back”: the womens specific tights feature a differently designed strap system to provide a drop back for when nature calls
• Visibility: Reflective “high-viz” logos and Pro Team details for low light visibility.

Rapha state these are optimized for cold to cool conditions (1-8°C / 34-46°F). If Rapha have maintained the protective and thermal properties of the prior iteration of these tights, some of us may be comfortable taking them down into sub-freezing temps. Along with the DWR coating on the front, light rain and road spray will make these comfortably usable in all but actual downpours. This, of course, is a very personal and subjective measure.

Color and price

Rapha have maintained their understated design language, subtly integrating reflective elements into the design. The men’s tights are offered in four different color ways: dark green, dark grey, and black with either black or white straps. The women’s version is offered only in dark green or balcony with black straps.

For cyclists who prioritize performance and demand protection on cold, dark, and damp winter roads, the Pro Team Winter Tights III are positioned as the non-negotiable choice.

Pricing is premium, as always with Rapha: US$380.00 or €320,00.

For more info and direct purchase see the men’s version or women’s version.

Pashley Skyline
Expand Your Horizon, have fun while being practical

Pez readers, let’s have some fun, and get practical with a versatile new offering from Pashley. The Pashley Skyline Mini Velo is a bike meant to be ridden by the ‘in the know, style conscious’ to navigate  cities – and will fit in from Tokyo to New York, Stockholm to Amsterdam, or in yours. The Pashley Skyline embodies the essence of Mini Velo culture and delivers a beautifully hand-crafted bicycle equally for the crosstown traffic conquering commuter, weekend escape artist or café culture lifestyle lover – it’s full of attitude, promise and surprise. A joy to ride with smile inducing properties.

Embodying 100 years of steel heritage in small wheel form

The Skyline embodies all of Pashley’s rich near 100 year heritage of UK handmade steel craftmanship and experience using a carefully considered combination of Reynolds 725, 631 and 525 double-butted steel tubing for the lightweight, highly-durable and versatile frame. The frame’s geometry takes all the advantages of the 20” wheels combined with a controlled and comfortable riding position with direct, confident handling across a variety of terrains. With multiple mounting points for front and rear racks, frame bags, mudguards, bottle cages and more – with tyre clearance up to 2.3” (city slickers or off-road knobbly’s). The Pashley Skyline Mini Velo is a highly practical and versatile bike for today’s modern rider who is looking for something truly unique. Fully loaded or minimalist – made for the City, ride it to escape beyond.

Andy Smallwood, CEO, Pashley, sez: “This bike is all about maximising the unique experience you get from a small-wheeled bike. You could be riding through the city, local village, commuting to work or just out for fun – simply enjoying the exhilaration you get on 2 wheels. The Skyline Mini Velo will let you (re)discover the joy of cycling, whilst fitting in with your lifestyle and is guaranteed to put a smile on your face. For some it will be the N+1, for everyone else it will be the only one.”

Not just an urban commuter

The bike has been designed for day-to-day riding across multiple surfaces including road, parks and light gravel. The 20” wheels take up less space making it ideal for storage in a modern living/work environment. Easy maintenance is at the core with a choice of straight-forward well-tested Mini Velo specific componentry and options of classic swept back, riser or drop bars to match your riding style.

Jon Cumperbatch, Lead Designer, Pashley, sez: “With Skyline we wanted to design a highly adaptable platform to allow riders to create unique builds that show their personality. The frameset has the ability to change dropout standards, run hub gears, single speed or derailleur drivetrains, change cable guides for clean routing, add a dropper post, mount racks, cages and bags, fit big volume tyres etc. etc. A combination of Reynolds tubes has been chosen for their durability and superior ride characteristics. Slightly elongated top tubes create a stable wheelbase and allow fitment of drop and flat handlebars and short chainstays make for snappy acceleration. The front-end geometry has been designed to mimic a larger wheeled bike for familiarity and predictable handling.”

Steel is real, and built to last

The frames are strong, reliable and built to last, finished with a protective e-coating and tough powder coated finish to make a bike that will be part of your life for many years. Combined with disc brakes for superior stopping power – even when fully loaded – this frame offers a versatile and unequalled experience.

Luke Hemming, Pashley family member & Mechanic, sez: “This is why I love my job – I see the steel tubes delivered, cut-to-size, machined, brazed or welded and painted before I assemble them. Beautiful Classics one day, hard-core Wildfinders the next and now the new Skyline Mini Velo. I’d give mine the full café racer treatment and call it Rudy.”

Builds and pricing

Pashley’s Skyline Mini Velo is available in 3 builds, 3 sizes (S, M & L) and 3 distinctive colourways; Skyline Alfine 8 Flat Bar, Skyline microSHIFT Advent Drop Bar and the Skyline microSHIFT Advent Flat Bar.

Pashley Skyline Alfine 8 Flat Bar from £1,895 / €2,495 / $2,895 / AUD$4,395
Pashley Skyline microSHIFT Advent Drop Bar from £1,895 / €2,495 / $2,895 / AUD$4,395
Pashley Skyline microSHIFT Advent Flat Bar from £1,795 / €2,295 / $2,695 / AUD$4,195
Frameset £995 / €1,295 / $1,495 / AUD$2,295
Custom Color from £75 / €100 / $125 / AUD$170

Full details and info can be found over at Pashely.co.uk.

KREUZA Slice Aerodynamic Water Bottle
Why should hydration slow you down?

In the quest for every last watt, sometimes the most overlooked pieces of equipment can make a surprising difference. Enter the KREUZA Slice Aerodynamic Water Bottle from Elitewheels, a sleek, aero-optimized bottle designed to keep you hydrated without slowing you down. Wind-tunnel tested to save a claimed 2.6 watts at 45 km/h compared to standard round bottles, the KREUZA Slice is built for speed.

Beyond its aerodynamic advantages, the KREUZA Slice is a fully functional and race-ready piece of kit. It has a 620 ml capacity, ideal for endurance rides, and is constructed from food-grade, 100% BPA-free polypropylene for safety and durability. Its refined silhouette is designed to pair seamlessly with modern aero frames, and when used with the matching KREUZA Slice Aerodynamic Water Bottle Cage, it offers maximum aero performance and a clean aesthetic. They’re a small price to pay for a measurable aero advantage.

Technical Specifications

• Capacity: 620 ml
• Weight: 84 g
• Dimensions: 255 x 58 x 75mm
• Material: Food-grade PP (polypropylene), 100% BPA-free
• Aerodynamics: Claimed to save 2.6 watts at 45 km/h compared to standard round bottles
• Safety: Fully UCI-compliant
• Price: $19.90 (USD)

Click here for complete details and ordering.

Note: If you have other experiences with gear or something to add, drop us a line. We don’t claim to know everything (we just imply it at times). Give us a pat on the back if you like the reviews or a slap in the head if you feel the need!

PezCycling News and the author ask that you contact the manufacturers before using any products you see here. Only the manufacturer can provide accurate and complete information on proper/safe use, handling, maintenance, and or installation of products as well as any conditional information or product limitations.

The post Gear Break: Specialized Aethos 2, Mavic Cosmic Ultimate 45 Disc, Cycology Long Sleeve Jersey, Rapha Pro Team Winter Tights III, Pashley Cycles Skyline, Kreuza Slice Bottle appeared first on PezCycling News.