As near as I can tell, the Crux is my personal fave of any bike Specialized has out there right now. A good deal at around 1500.00..and like you say; beat it like a rented mule and who cares? I was, and have been, sorely tempted to snag one of the black/white 2012 models...but sadly I can talk myself out of buying almost anything and am saving me shekels for something nice(er)...although that is pure vanity, as a Crux could be ridden way harder/faster then I could ride it.