Allied Able Reborn: Gen 2 Gravel Bike Gets Massive Tire Clearance & Integration
Explore the completely redesigned second-gen Allied Able gravel bike, featuring massive 700x57mm tire clearance, full cable integration, downtube storage, and updated geometry.
Allied Cycle Works has unveiled a completely revamped version of its Able gravel bike, marking a significant evolution from the first generation. Designed from the ground up, the second-generation Allied Able targets the demands of modern gravel racing, incorporating substantial updates to tire clearance, cable integration, storage solutions, and geometry, while refining its focus as a high-performance, race-oriented machine.
While acknowledged as a premium offering—with complete builds reaching prices that place it in a niche segment of the market—the changes introduced in this iteration are noteworthy for riders seeking cutting-edge gravel performance.
Frame Overhaul: Dropped Stays, Massive Clearance, and Integration
Perhaps the most visually striking and functionally significant change is the departure from the original Able's unique elevated drive-side chainstay. The new design employs dual dropped chainstays, a move that is instrumental in dramatically increasing tire clearance. Where the first generation accommodated up to 700x45mm tires, the redesigned Able now boasts clearance for tires as wide as 700x57mm (or 2.2 inches), placing it among the most capable race-focused gravel frames in terms of tire volume.
Complementing the sleek new frame lines is the move to fully integrated cable routing. Hoses and cables run internally through the handlebars, stem, and frame for a clean aesthetic and potential aerodynamic benefit. Addressing one common concern with integration, Allied introduces its ST03 Adjustable Stem, which cleverly allows riders to switch between two stem rise positions without the need to disconnect and re-route brake hoses or shift cables.
Another key frame update is the addition of a downtube storage compartment, accessed via a new magnetic latching mechanism. This provides convenient on-bike storage for tools, spares, or other small essentials.
In line with its sharpened racing focus, the second-generation Able streamlines its mounting options. It retains two standard bottle cage mounts within the main triangle and adds bosses on the top tube for bolt-on bags. However, the fender mounts and the under-downtube accessory mount found on the previous version have been omitted, emphasizing a cleaner, more race-centric profile.
Updated Geometry for Rougher Terrain
The geometry of the Allied Able has been revised to enhance stability and confidence when tackling challenging gravel conditions. Key adjustments include:
- A 1-degree slacker head tube angle, now measuring 70.5° across all sizes.
- A generally steeper seat tube angle (74-75°, varying slightly by size) for an efficient pedaling position.
- A longer reach and longer front-center measurement, contributing to stability at speed.
- Slightly longer chainstays, standardized at 428mm for all sizes, balancing agility with stability.
- A consistent 80mm bottom bracket drop across all sizes.
The bike retains a 410mm fork length and 55mm fork rake. These changes collectively aim to provide a more planted and confidence-inspiring ride on rough surfaces without sacrificing the responsiveness expected of a race bike. The Able is available in five frame sizes (52cm/XS, 54cm/S, 56cm/M, 58cm/L, 61cm/XL), with detailed geometry figures available for precise fitting. A size Medium (56cm) frame has a claimed raw weight of approximately 950 grams.
Manufacturing, Pricing, and Availability
In a notable shift, the frames for the new Able are manufactured in Asia. However, Allied emphasizes that the finishing processes—including quality control, custom paint application, and final bike assembly—are conducted at their facility in Bentonville, Arkansas.
The redesigned Allied Able is available for purchase now. Pricing starts at $4,500 USD for a frameset, which includes the frame, fork, headset, stem, and seatpost.
Allied also offers three standard complete build options:
- SRAM Rival AXS Mullet build: $6,755 USD
- (Mid-tier build not specified in source, likely SRAM Force AXS)
- SRAM Red XPLR AXS build: $11,500 USD
Conclusion: A More Capable, Integrated Gravel Racer
The second-generation Allied Able represents a focused evolution, pushing further into the high-performance gravel race category. The massive increase in tire clearance, adoption of full cable integration, addition of downtube storage, and refined geometry signal a clear intent to meet the demands of challenging courses and competitive riders. While the removal of some mounts and the premium price point underscore its race-bred nature, the updates deliver a significantly more capable and modern gravel platform for those seeking speed and performance above all else.
