Specialized Tarmac SL8 Expert Road Bike Description:
The Specialized Tarmac SL8 Expert is designed for speed across any ride profile. Building upon the SL7's "one bike to rule them all" mantra, the Tarmac SL8 takes this all-around winning design and shaves weight while still prioritizing aerodynamics and stiffness. The SL8 Expert is constructed around a 1.69 kg (size 56cm) frame made from FACT 10r Carbon. While slightly heavier than its S-Works counterpart (around 320g heavier), the SL8 frame provides the same level of compliance as its big sibling. Of note, the "Speed Sniffer" front design sets the headtube back away from the leading edge of the bike, allowing for a sharper, lower drag shape. In terms of its stiffness-to-weight ratio, the SL8 provides a 33% gain over the SL7, making this bike equally suitable for all-out sprints or hillclimb finishes. Spec'd with SRAM Rival AXS, the Expert model provides a wireless electronic shifting experience that is on par with SRAMs higher-priced drivetrains. The included Quarq power meter uses crank-based torque gauges to provide next-level details into riding metrics. On top of that, Roval C38 carbon fiber wheels provide fast-rolling efficiency and easy tubeless setup (or can still be used with tubes of course). On the whole, the SL8 is a winning formula designed to take on the most competitive races in the world.
Features:
- Aero In Everything design prioritizes aerodynamics in every element of the frame design
- The "Speed Sniffer" sets the headtube back and creates a sharper edge and lower drag shape
- Lighter than the SL7 while remaining super stiff (33% increase in stiffness-to-weight ratio)
- S-Works Tarmac SL8 FACT carbon seatpost is narrower and more aero
- Roval C38 carbon fiber wheels provide fast-rolling efficiency and easy tubeless setup
- SRAM Rival wireless electronic shifting is reliable and crisp
- Crankset-integrated Quarq power meter provides an additional level of cycling metrics
- 32mm tire clearance allows riders to run wider road tires
- Frame is designed to be "beyond gender" as Specialized research shows there is no need for separate bike designs for men and women
- Threaded BSA bottom bracket provides easy maintenance and is less likely to develop creaking noises
Specifications:
- Frame: Tarmac SL8 FACT 10r Carbon (Threaded Bottom Bracket) (12 x 142mm)
- Fork: Tarmac SL8 10r Carbon (Flat Mount Disc) (12 x 100mm)
- Handlebar: Specialized Expert (Shallow Drop) (125mm Drop) (75mm Reach)
- Tape: Supacaz Super Sticky Kush
- Stem: Tarmac Integrated Stem (6°)
- Shift Levers: SRAM Rival eTap AXS
- Brakes: SRAM Rival (Hydraulic Disc) (Flat Mount)
- Crankset: SRAM Rival (w/ Quarq Power Meter)
- Bottom Bracket: SRAM DUB (BSA Threaded) (68mm)
- Chain: SRAM Rival (12 Speed)
- Chainrings: 48/35T
- Cassette: SRAM Rival (12-Speed) (10-36t)
- Front Derailleur: SRAM Rival eTap AXS (Braze-On)
- Rear Derailleur: SRAM Rival (12-Speed)
- Front Wheel: Roval C38 (21mm Internal Width) (Tubeless-Ready)
- Rear Wheel: Roval C38 (21mm Internal Width) (Tubeless-Ready)
- Saddle: Body Geometry Power Expert
- Seatpost: S-Works Tarmac SL8 Carbon Seatpost (FACT Carbon) (15mm Offset)
- Seat Clamp: Tarmac Integrated Wedge
- Front Tire: S-Works Turbo (Folding Bead) (700 x 26mm)
- Rear Tire: S-Works Turbo (Folding Bead) (700 x 26mm)
- Model Year: 2024
- Color: Gloss Smoke/Obsidian
- Weight: 17lbs, 2.1oz (56cm)
Assembly Note:
These bikes are fully built by our expert bike builders, then partially disassembled as needed for shipping. Bikes will arrive to you with some basic assembly still required. Tools for assembly and OEM pedals are included.
This product was added to our catalog on August 16, 2023
Note: This bicycle comes equipped with SRAM AXS electronic shifting. Shifters and derailleurs will be setup and paired by our inhouse mechanic. We recommend installing the SRAM AXS app on your smartphone. This will allow you to check battery levels, customize your controls, pair devices, and update firmware.
