Specialized TARMAC SL8 EXPERT Di2 – The Fastest Race Bike Ever Built
After eight generations and over two decades of development, the Tarmac SL8 Expert Di2 is not just the fastest Tarmac ever—it’s the fastest race bike in the world. By combining aerodynamics, ultra-lightweight construction, stiffness, and compliance, this bike delivers unparalleled speed and efficiency.
Through real-world race simulations, Ride Science testing confirms that the Tarmac SL8 is:
✅ 16.6 seconds faster over 40km
✅ 128 seconds faster over Milan-San Remo
✅ 20 seconds faster over the legendary Tourmalet climb
Aerodynamics Where It Matters – "Speed Sniffer" Nose Cone
The Tarmac SL8 is designed with aerodynamic efficiency in critical areas, not just for aesthetics:
Speed Sniffer Nose Cone – The new head tube design moves the steer tube back, sharpening the leading edge for maximum aerodynamic gains.
Narrowest, most aerodynamic seatpost ever – Using new UCI rules, Specialized developed a seatpost that minimizes turbulence behind the rider’s legs, enhancing airflow efficiency.
More aerodynamic than the Venge – Tarmac SL8 surpasses even Specialized’s most aero-focused road bike, redefining race bike aerodynamics.
Minimal Weight, Maximum Aero Performance
Taking inspiration from the Aethos, the Tarmac SL8 achieves the UCI minimum weight while maintaining full aerodynamics:
685g frame – 15% lighter than the SL7, making it the lightest aero road frame in the World Tour.
Optimized tube shapes – The down tube, seat tube, and rear triangle efficiently distribute load, allowing the removal of excess carbon stiffness layers.
32mm tire clearance – Identical to the SL7, providing versatility for higher-volume tires when conditions demand.
Unmatched Stiffness & Compliance
The Tarmac SL8 isn’t just fast—it’s also the most compliant race bike yet:
33% better stiffness-to-weight ratio than the SL7, resulting in sharper handling and more efficient power transfer.
6% more compliance – Absorbs road vibrations, delivering a smoother ride over rough pavement.
Proven Rider-First Engineering™ – Every frame size is individually tuned to ensure identical ride quality for all riders.
Beyond Gender – Built for Every Rider
Recognizing that cycling performance isn’t dictated by gender, Specialized has designed the Tarmac SL8 to fit all riders. Instead of creating separate male and female models, this bike is optimized for fit, handling, and comfort based on the science of biomechanics and race-proven geometry.
Premium Components for Elite Racing
To complement the world’s fastest frame, the Tarmac SL8 Expert Di2 is equipped with the best components available:
✅ Shimano Ultegra Di2 electronic groupset – Wireless, precise shifting for seamless performance.
✅ Roval C38 carbon wheelset – Tubeless-ready, aerodynamically optimized, and ultra-lightweight.
✅ SL7 stem & Specialized Expert Shallow Drop alloy handlebars – Perfectly balanced for aggressive handling and control.
Why Choose This Bike?
FACT 10r carbon frame – Ultra-light, aero-optimized, and competition-ready.
Speed Sniffer Nose Cone – A groundbreaking head tube design for maximum speed.
Shimano Ultegra Di2 12-speed drivetrain – Wireless, precise shifting for ultimate race performance.
Roval C38 wheels – Tubeless-ready and aerodynamically optimized for all conditions.
Rider-First Engineering™ – Consistent handling and ride quality across all sizes.
Beyond Gender Design – Designed for all riders, focusing on performance rather than arbitrary classifications.
Key Specifications
Frame: FACT 10r carbon, aerodynamic tube shaping, 685g frame weight
Drivetrain: Shimano Ultegra Di2 12-speed, wireless electronic shifting
Brakes: Shimano Ultegra hydraulic disc brakes
Wheels: Roval C38 carbon, tubeless-ready
Cockpit: SL7 stem with Specialized Expert Shallow Drop alloy handlebars
Tires: 32mm tire clearance for versatile performance
Who is this bike for?
The Specialized TARMAC SL8 Expert Di2 is built for elite racers, performance-driven road cyclists, and riders who demand the best in aerodynamics, weight savings, and stiffness. Whether you're sprinting for the finish line, attacking steep climbs, or pushing your limits on fast descents, this bike delivers the speed, control, and efficiency to win.
Brand |
Specialized
|
Weight |
7.20kg (15 lb, 14 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 |
FACT 10r Carbon, 12x100mm thru-axle, flat-mount disc
|
Frameset/Seat binder |
Tarmac integrated wedge
|
Drivertain/Shift levers |
Shimano Ultegra R8170, hydraulic disc
|
Drivertain/Rear derailleur |
Shimano Ultegra Di2 R8150, 12-speed
|
Drivertain/Front derailleur |
Shimano Ultegra R8150, braze-on
|
Drivertain/Crankset |
Shimano Ultegra R81000
|
Drivertain/Chainrings |
52/36T
|
Drivertain/Chain |
Shimano Ultegra, 12-speed
|
Drivertain/Cassette |
Shimano Ultegra, 12-speed, 11-30t
|
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 |
Shimano Ultegra Di2 R8170, hydraulic disc
|
Brakes/Front brake |
Shimano Ultegra Di2 R8170, hydraulic disc
|