BikeRadar

Ultimate Gravel Endurance Bike: Lael Wilcox's Specialized Diverge For The Traka 560

Lael Wilcox, the record‑seeking endurance cyclist, is set to ride the 560 km “Traka” event tomorrow. She will tackle 10,000 m of climbing on a Specialized Diverge outfitted with a Stram‑Axis Explore drivetrain, a 40‑44t chainring and a 10‑46t cassette. The race, which she estimates will take 29‑30 hours, doubles as a rehearsal for her upcoming around‑the‑world Guinness World Record attempt. Wilcox’s bike combines comfort and self‑sufficiency. She runs 50 mm Specialized Tracer tires at low pressure for mixed‑surface grip, a Zip 303 rear wheel and a front dynamo hub built by Zip that drives an Exposure Revo 2 light. The hub also charges her Wahoo ROM 3 computer, phone (via Quad Lock) and a spare shifter battery, effectively serving as a power bank. When asked why she chose a dynamo, Wilcox explained that it eliminates the need for a separate battery pack and power bank, offering continuous lighting and charging. She highlighted the custom Ruckus Composites mounts on her arrow bars, which keep the lights, computer and phone within easy reach despite the reduced cockpit real estate. The setup illustrates how ultra‑distance riders are integrating renewable power and modular accessories to reduce weight and increase reliability. As Wilcox prepares for a 29,000 km, 78‑day circumnavigation, her equipment choices could influence other endurance athletes seeking similar performance and logistical efficiency.