If any brand can be said to capture the vibe, hype and division that Apple has achieved in the world of consumer tech over here in bicycle land, then surely it's Specialized.
Both brands have their diehard fans, as well as detractors. Both carry a distinctly recognizable brand identity, and both are highly successful in their respective spheres. Of course, for Specialized - as with Apple - the flipside of being such a large and ubiquitous brand is that most people have an opinion and are very forthcoming with it.
