No bicycle reaches the speed of the Tarmac SL8, the result of a unique combination of aerodynamics, lightness, and ride quality that once seemed impossible. After eight generations and over twenty years of development, the Tarmac SL8 is not just the fastest ever made: it is the fastest racing bike in the world. Are your legs ready?
Pure speed comes from the perfect balance of aerodynamics, reduced weight, stiffness, and comfort. Thanks to advanced simulations by our Ride Science Team, we have proven that the Tarmac SL8 is unbeatable on any course: 16.6 seconds faster over 40 flat km, 128 seconds gained on the Milan-Sanremo, and 20 seconds on the Tourmalet.
AERODYNAMICS
We focused aerodynamic development where it really matters, creating the fastest road bike we have ever produced — even faster than the Venge. The new setback head tube drastically reduces air resistance, while the thinnest and most aerodynamic seatpost ever made by Specialized, enabled by new UCI rules, optimizes airflow around the rider’s legs.
LIGHTWEIGHT
To achieve the perfect balance between aerodynamics and minimum weight, we drew inspiration from the Aethos construction philosophy. The result is a frame weighing only 685 grams, 15% lighter than the Tarmac SL7 and lighter than any other World Tour bike*. The shapes of the down tube, seat tube, and rear triangle have been optimized to maximize stiffness and minimize excess material.
(*Except for the 585 g Aethos frame used by Kasper Asgreen in a Tour de France stage).
RIDE QUALITY
The stiffness-to-weight ratio has improved by 33% compared to the previous model. The Tarmac SL8 is incredibly precise in corners and responsive under load, yet more comfortable, filtering 6% more road vibrations. It retains the proven geometry of the Tarmac SL7 and offers clearance for tires up to 32 mm, ensuring control and comfort even on the roughest surfaces.
OLTRE GENDER DIFFERENCES
Every rider is unique. That’s why the Tarmac SL8 is designed to fit everyone, regardless of gender. It’s time to move beyond old labels and enjoy the purest riding pleasure.
The Tarmac SL8 Expert Di2 is equipped with Shimano Ultegra Di2 groupset, Roval C38 carbon tubeless-ready wheels, SL7 stem, and Specialized Expert Shallow Drop handlebar.
Technical specifications
Frame
Tarmac SL8 FACT 10r Carbon, Rider First Engineered™, Win Tunnel Engineered, Clean Routing, threaded BSA bottom bracket, 12x142 mm thru-axle, flat mount disc
Fork
FACT 10r Carbon, 12x100 mm thru-axle, flat mount disc
Brakes
Shimano Ultegra BR-R8170, hydraulic, front and rear
Drivetrain
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Shifters: Shimano Ultegra Di2 R8170
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Front derailleur: Shimano Ultegra Di2 R8150
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Rear derailleur: Shimano Ultegra Di2 R8150, 12-speed
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Cassette: Shimano Ultegra 11-30t
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Chain: Shimano XT M8100 12-speed
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Crankset: Shimano Ultegra R8100, 52/36t
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Bottom bracket: Shimano threaded BSA
Wheels and tires
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Wheels: Roval C38 carbon, 21 mm internal width
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Tires: S-Works Turbo 700x26 mm, 120 TPI, BlackBelt protection
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Tubes: Turbo Ultralight, Presta valve 48 mm
Cockpit
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Stem: Tarmac integrated stem, 6°
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Handlebar: Specialized Expert Shallow Drop, aluminum, 125 mm drop / 75 mm reach
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Bar tape: Supacaz Super Sticky Kush
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Saddle: Body Geometry Power Expert
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Seatpost: S-Works Tarmac SL8 FACT Carbon, 15 mm offset
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Seat collar: Tarmac integrated wedge
Accessories
SWAT stem headset spacers kit compatible with SL7 stem and Roval Rapide cockpit
Product details
ID: 221577
Weight: 7.18 kg (size 56, tubeless setup)
Weights refer to painted production frames as shown. They may vary depending on color, size, and components. Specifications subject to change without notice.
