Specialized Narrow Carbon Steerer Expander Plug OEM Aethos 2

Specialized Factory Replacement Narrow Carbon Steerer Tube Expander Plug

This Specialized factory replacement steerer tube expander plug is designed specifically for carbon forks with a narrow internal diameter, as used on 2026 Aethos 2 platform bikes. It provides proper headset preload while safely expanding inside the carbon steerer without damage.

This is a model-specific OEM part and is not cross-compatible with aftermarket compression plugs or forks not originally equipped with this design from the factory.

Correct installation orientation and torque are critical for safe use.

Key Features & Benefits

• Genuine Specialized OEM replacement

• Designed for narrow-ID carbon steerer tubes

• Lightweight alloy construction

• Provides secure headset preload without steerer damage

• Factory-correct fit for Aethos 2 carbon forks

• Maintains Specialized warranty and safety specifications

Technical Specifications

• Application: Carbon fork steerer tube compression

• Steerer Type: Narrow internal diameter carbon steerer

• Length: 50 mm

• Outer Diameter: 22.4 mm

• Top Cap Bolt Compatibility: M6 × 1.0 pitch

• Torque Spec: 9 Nm (79.6 in-lbf)

• Material: Lightweight alloy

• Orientation: Arrow must face forward during installation

Important Compatibility Notes

⚠️ Factory-Installed Use Only

• Approved only for bikes originally equipped with this expander plug

• Not compatible with aftermarket compression plugs

• Not compatible with forks using standard/wide ID steerer plugs

Improper substitution may result in headset preload failure or steerer damage.

OEM Compatibility

2026 Specialized Aethos 2 Platform

• S-Works Aethos 2 Frameset – FACT 12r Carbon

• S-Works Aethos 2 – Shimano Dura-Ace Di2

• S-Works Aethos 2 – SRAM RED AXS

• Aethos 2 Pro – Shimano Ultegra Di2

• Aethos 2 Pro – SRAM Force AXS

• Aethos 2 Frameset – FACT 10r Carbon

• Aethos 2 Expert – Shimano Ultegra Di2

• Aethos 2 Expert – SRAM Force AXS

Installation Notes

• Install with arrow pointing toward the front of the bike

• Use only with M6 top-cap bolts

• Torque to 9 Nm maximum

• For carbon steerer tubes only

• Professional installation recommended

Why Use OEM?

Using the correct Specialized compression plug ensures:

• Safe headset preload

• Proper carbon steerer support

• Elimination of creaks or play

• Preserved fork integrity

• Factory-correct fit and finish

The only correct OEM narrow-ID steerer expander plug for 2026 Specialized Aethos 2 carbon forks.