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

Why It Matters

Wilcox’s integration of a dynamo hub and custom cockpit demonstrates a scalable model for ultra‑endurance cycling, offering reliable power and comfort that could become standard for record‑seeking athletes.

Key Takeaways

• Lael Wilcox tackles 560 km race on Specialized Diverge equipped with dynamo hub.
• Bike features 40‑44t chainring, 10‑46t cassette, 50‑mm tires for comfort.
• Dynamo hub powers Exposure Revo lights and charges devices on the go.
• Custom arrow bars and mounts create a compact cockpit control center.
• Race serves as training for upcoming 29,000 km world‑record attempt.

Summary

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.

Original Description

Ahead of the Traka 560, we caught up with Around The World record-holder, Lael Wilcox, to check out her gravel bike setup.

In this video, we take a deep dive into Wilcox's bike setup and reveal the secrets behind her custom Specialized Diverge.

From tyre widths and gearing, to how she keeps her devices charged, don't miss this opportunity to get up close and personal with this incredible athlete and her bike.

Read more on BikeRadar.com 👉 https://www.bikeradar.com/features/pro-bike/lael-wilcox-traka-560-specialized-diverge

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