Gear

Pro Bike Gallery: Marcel Kittel’s Specialized S-Works Venge ViAS

The German chooses the stiff S-Works Venge ViAS for Wednesday's Scheldeprijs, likely anticipating a sprint finish.

April 6, 2016 Dan Cavallari

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Marcel — It was tight quarters in the pits before Scheldeprijs in Antwerp, Belgium. Marcel Kittel’s S-Works Venge ViAS stood ready to break the crowd and attack another day on the cobbles. Photo: Dan Cavallari | VeloNews

Marcel — While other riders on Etixx – Quick-Step opted for the Roubaix, Specialized’s cobble bike, Kittel chose the stiffer Venge ViAS, likely anticipating a bunch sprint. Photo: Dan Cavallari | VeloNews

Marcel — It may be the best choice for the sprint to the finish, but the Venge ViAS can be unforgiving over the cobbles. The only compliance in the rear end comes from the lowered seat stays that allow the top of the seat tube to flex a bit. Photo: Dan Cavallari | VeloNews

Marcel — A stout, unbranded stem. Yet another touch that indicates Kittel is preparing more for the sprint than the discomfort of the cobbles. Photo: Dan Cavallari | VeloNews

Marcel — A K-Edge Garmin mount is a good choice for the rough vibrations from cobbles that can send head units, water bottles, and riders flying. It looks like Kittel’s bars are double-taped for a bit of vibration damping. Photo: Dan Cavallari | VeloNews

Marcel — Not surprisingly, Kittel’s got sprinter buttons nestled on the inside of the drops. Photo: Dan Cavallari | VeloNews

Marcel — Kittel will track his power data with a 4iiii power meter. It’s attached to a Dura-Ace crankset with 53-39 chainrings. Photo: Dan Cavallari | VeloNews

Marcel — Use, abuse, repeat. The front brakes on Kittel’s Venge ViAS show signs of wear after making repeated contact with either the down tube or Kittel’s shoes. Photo: Dan Cavallari | VeloNews

Marcel — More signs of wear. Photo: Dan Cavallari | VeloNews

Marcel — While many teams opted to simplify matters and use electrical tape to keep tubular tire valves from rattling, Kittel uses Roval’s proprietary valve silencers for a more precise look and fit. Photo: Dan Cavallari | VeloNews

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