The S-Works TARMAC SL8 ETAP – The Fastest Race Bike in the World
After eight generations and over two decades of innovation, the S-Works Tarmac SL8 ETAP is not just the fastest Tarmac ever—it’s the fastest race bike ever created. Designed to deliver unmatched aerodynamics, ultra-lightweight construction, and race-proven handling, this bike is engineered to dominate every climb, sprint, and breakaway.
Proven Race-Winning Speed
Through real-world race simulations, the Tarmac SL8 ETAP has been measured to provide:
✅ 16.6 seconds faster over 40km
✅ 128 seconds faster over Milan-San Remo
✅ 20 seconds faster over the Tourmalet climb
Aerodynamics Where It Matters
The Tarmac SL8 is designed with aerodynamic efficiency in key areas, optimizing airflow where it has the most impact:
Speed Sniffer Nose Cone – The head tube’s leading edge is significantly sharper due to a redesigned steering tube placement, reducing drag and improving efficiency.
Narrowest, most aerodynamic seatpost – Specialized has leveraged new UCI rules to create the narrowest seatpost ever, reducing turbulence behind the rider’s legs for smoother airflow.
More aerodynamic than the Venge – By refining aerodynamics beyond previous benchmarks, the SL8 sets a new standard for aero road bikes.
Minimal Weight, Maximum Aerodynamics
Inspired by the Aethos, the Tarmac SL8 achieves the UCI minimum weight while maintaining full aerodynamic advantages:
685g frame – 15% lighter than the SL7, making it the lightest aero road frame on the World Tour.
Optimized tube shapes – The down tube, seat tube, and rear triangle have been engineered to carry load efficiently, eliminating the need for excessive carbon layers.
32mm tire clearance – Identical to the SL7, providing versatility for higher-volume tires when required.
Unmatched Stiffness & Compliance
The Tarmac SL8 isn’t just the fastest—it also sets a new benchmark for comfort and handling:
33% better stiffness-to-weight ratio than the SL7 – Ensuring maximum power transfer and precision handling.
6% more compliance – A more supple ride quality that absorbs road vibrations for enhanced comfort on longer rides.
Proven Rider-First Engineering – Every frame size is individually optimized to maintain identical ride quality for all cyclists.
Beyond Gender – Designed for Every Rider
Specialized has engineered the Tarmac SL8 ETAP to perform for all riders, focusing on fit, handling, and performance rather than outdated gender categorizations. Every cyclist gets identical aerodynamic and comfort benefits, ensuring a race-ready experience for everyone.
SRAM RED AXS – The Ultimate Wireless Drivetrain
Pairing the fastest frame in the world with the lightest electronic groupset ever, the Tarmac SL8 ETAP comes equipped with:
✅ SRAM RED AXS 12-speed electronic drivetrain – Wireless shifting with power meter integration for precision performance.
✅ Roval Rapide CLX II wheelset – Tubeless-ready, aerodynamically optimized, and ultra-lightweight for superior racing efficiency.
✅ Roval Rapide cockpit – A fully integrated handlebar and stem combination that reduces weight and improves aerodynamics.
Why Choose This Bike?
FACT 12r carbon frame – The lightest and most aerodynamic race frame ever built.
Speed Sniffer Nose Cone – Cutting-edge aerodynamics at the leading edge for maximum speed.
SRAM RED AXS electronic shifting – Wireless, precise gear changes with built-in power meter.
Roval Rapide CLX II wheels – Tubeless-ready and optimized for aerodynamics and rolling efficiency.
Rider-First Engineering – Ensuring consistent ride quality across all frame sizes.
Beyond Gender – A performance-focused design that caters to all cyclists.
Technical Specifications:
Frame: FACT 12r carbon, aerodynamic tube shaping, 685g frame weight
Drivetrain: SRAM RED AXS 12-speed, power meter included
Brakes: SRAM RED hydraulic disc brakes
Wheels: Roval Rapide CLX II, tubeless-ready
Cockpit: Roval Rapide integrated handlebar and stem
Who is this bike for?
The S-Works Tarmac SL8 ETAP is built for elite racers, performance-driven road cyclists, and riders who demand the absolute best in aerodynamics, weight savings, and power transfer. Whether sprinting for victory, attacking steep climbs, or setting personal records, this bike delivers the ultimate speed, efficiency, and control.
Brand |
Specialized
|
Weight |
6.66 kg (14 lb, 10.9 oz)
|
Frameset/Frame |
S-Works Tarmac SL8 FACT 12r Carbon, Rider First Engineered™, Win Tunnel Engineered, Clean Routing, Threaded BB, 12x142mm thru-axle, flat-mount disc
|
Wheels/Rear wheel |
Roval Rapide CLX II, Tubeless, 21mm internal width carbon rim, 60mm depth, Win Tunnel Engineered, Roval AFD hub, 24h, DT Swiss Aerolite spokes
|
Wheels/Rear tire |
S-works Turbo Rapidair 2BR, 700x26mm
|
Wheels/Inner tubes |
Turbo Ultralight, 60mm Front, 80mm Rear, Presta valve
|
Wheels/Front wheel |
Roval Rapide CLX II, Tubeless, 21mm internal width carbon rim, 51mm depth, Win Tunnel Engineered, Roval AFD hub, 18h, DT Swiss Aerolite spokes
|
Wheels/Front tire |
S-works Turbo Rapidair 2BR, 700x26mm
|
Suspension/Fork |
S-Works FACT 12r Carbon, 12x100mm thru-axle, flat-mount disc
|
Frameset/Seat binder |
Tarmac Integrated Wedge
|
Drivertain/Shift levers |
NEW SRAM RED AXS, hydraulic disc
|
Drivertain/Rear derailleur |
NEW SRAM RED AXS, 12-speed
|
Drivertain/Front derailleur |
NEW SRAM RED AXS, braze-on
|
Drivertain/Crankset |
NEW SRAM RED AXS Power Meter
|
Drivertain/Chainrings |
48/35
|
Drivertain/Chain |
NEW SRAM RED 12-speed
|
Drivertain/Cassette |
NEW SRAM RED XG-1290, 12-speed, 10-33t
|
Cockpit/Tape |
Supacaz Super Sticky Kush
|
Cockpit/Stem |
Roval Rapide Cockpit, Integrated Bar/Stem
|
Cockpit/Seatpost |
S-Works Tarmac SL8 Carbon seat post, FACT Carbon, 15mm offset
|
Cockpit/Saddle |
S-Works Power with Mirror
|
Cockpit/Handlebars |
Roval Rapide Cockpit, Integrated Bar/Stem
|
Brakes/Rear brake |
NEW SRAM RED AXS, hydraulic disc
|
Brakes/Front brake |
NEW SRAM RED AXS, hydraulic disc
|