The Specialized Tarmac SL8 Expert is engineered for speed, aerodynamics, and precision handling, making it the fastest race bike ever built. With a lightweight FACT 10r carbon frame, cutting-edge aerodynamics, and Rider-First Engineered™ technology, the SL8 is 16.6 seconds faster over 40km, 128 seconds faster over Milan-San Remo, and 20 seconds faster over the legendary Tourmalet climb.
Aerodynamics Where It Matters
✅ Speed Sniffer Nose Cone – A redesigned head tube shape improves aerodynamics, reducing drag at the bike’s leading edge.
✅ Narrowest, most aerodynamic seatpost ever – Minimizes turbulence, allowing air to flow smoothly behind the rider.
✅ UCI rule-optimized design – Every component is engineered for real-world race conditions.
Ultra-Lightweight for Maximum Speed
✅ 685g frame – 15% lighter than the SL7, setting a new standard for lightweight aero bikes.
✅ Inspired by Aethos – Optimized tube shapes ensure superior stiffness without unnecessary material.
✅ 32mm tire clearance – Allows for higher-volume tires, improving comfort and control without sacrificing speed.
Stiffness, Control & Compliance Like Never Before
✅ 33% better stiffness-to-weight ratio – Transfers more power with razor-sharp handling.
✅ 6% more compliance – Smooths out road imperfections for a more comfortable ride.
✅ Rider-First Engineering™ – Delivers identical handling and ride quality across all sizes.
Beyond Gender – Engineered for Every Rider
The Tarmac SL8 is designed for all riders, optimizing fit, performance, and handling for maximum speed and efficiency. Instead of separate male and female models, this bike ensures every cyclist experiences world-class performance.
Premium Components for Race-Ready Performance
SRAM Rival eTap AXS 12-speed drivetrain – wireless electronic shifting with integrated power meter.
Roval C38 carbon wheelset – lightweight, tubeless-ready, and aerodynamically optimized.
SL7 stem & Expert Shallow Drop alloy handlebars – perfect balance of comfort and race geometry.
Why choose this bike?
FACT 10r carbon frame – lightweight, stiff, and aerodynamically optimized.
Speed Sniffer Nose Cone – advanced head tube design for reduced drag.
SRAM Rival eTap AXS 12-speed – wireless precision shifting with power meter.
Roval C38 carbon wheels – fast, lightweight, and tubeless-ready.
Rider-First Engineering™ – consistent ride quality across all frame sizes.
Key Features
Frame: FACT 10r carbon, aerodynamic shaping, 685g frame weight.
Drivetrain: SRAM Rival eTap AXS 12-speed, power meter-equipped.
Brakes: SRAM Rival hydraulic disc brakes.
Wheels: Roval C38 carbon, tubeless-ready.
Cockpit: SL7 stem with Specialized Expert Shallow Drop alloy handlebars.
Who is this bike for?
The Specialized Tarmac SL8 Expert is built for performance-driven road cyclists, competitive racers, and riders seeking elite-level aerodynamics at a more accessible price. Whether attacking steep climbs, sprinting for the finish, or setting personal records, this bike delivers the speed, control, and efficiency to push your limits.
Brand |
Specialized
|
Weight |
7.77 kg (17 lb, 2.1 oz)
|
Frameset/Frame |
Tarmac SL8 FACT 10r Carbon, Rider First Engineered™, Win Tunnel Engineered, Clean Routing, Threaded BB, 12x142mm thru-axle, flat-mount disc
|
Wheels/Rear wheel |
Roval C38, 21mm internal width carbon rim
|
Wheels/Rear tire |
S-Works Turbo, folding bead, 700x26mm
|
Wheels/Inner tubes |
Turbo Ultralight, 48mm Presta valve
|
Wheels/Front wheel |
Roval C38, 21mm internal width carbon rim
|
Wheels/Front tire |
S-Works Turbo, folding bead, 700x26mm
|
Suspension/Fork |
Tarmac SL8 FACT 10r Carbon, 12x100mm thru-axle, flat-mount disc
|
Frameset/Seat binder |
Tarmac integrated wedge
|
Drivertain/Shift levers |
SRAM Rival eTap AXS
|
Drivertain/Rear derailleur |
SRAM Rival eTap AXS, 12-speed
|
Drivertain/Front derailleur |
SRAM Rival eTAP AXS, braze-on
|
Drivertain/Crankset |
SRAM Rival with Power Meter
|
Drivertain/Chainrings |
48/35T
|
Drivertain/Chain |
SRAM Rival 12-speed
|
Drivertain/Cassette |
SRAM Rival, 12-speed, 10-36t
|
Cockpit/Tape |
Supacaz Super Sticky Kush
|
Cockpit/Stem |
Tarmac integrated stem, 6-degree
|
Cockpit/Seatpost |
S-Works Tarmac SL8 Carbon seat post, FACT Carbon, 15mm offset
|
Cockpit/Saddle |
Body Geometry Power Expert
|
Cockpit/Handlebars |
Specialized Expert Shallow Drop, alloy, 125mm drop x 75mm reach
|
Brakes/Rear brake |
SRAM Rival eTap AXS, hydraulic disc
|
Brakes/Front brake |
SRAM Rival eTap AXS, hydraulic disc
|