Specialized Tarmac SL8 Pro
$5,700.00
Description
Key design highlights:
- Fact 10r carbon frame (~685g claimed) — extremely light for an aero frame
- “Speed Sniffer” aero shaping — reduces drag while keeping a classic race feel
- 32mm tire clearance — allows more comfort without losing speed
- Stiffness + comfort balance — ~33% stiffer at pedals vs SL7, while improving ride compliance
Shimano Ultegra Di2 build details
From the current SL8 Pro Ultegra Di2 spec:
- Groupset: Shimano Ultegra Di2 R8170 (12-speed electronic shifting)
- Crankset: 52/36T compact race gearing
- Cassette: 11–30T
- Brakes: Hydraulic disc (140–160mm rotors)
- Wheels: Roval Rapide CL II carbon wheelset
- Weight: ~7.16 kg (size 56)
Ride feel
The SL8 Pro is known for:
- Extremely fast “free speed” on flat roads (it carries speed very efficiently)
- Light and explosive climbing response
- Surprisingly smooth ride for a race bike
- Very precise, aggressive handling at high speed
Compared to endurance bikes like a Caledonia-5, it feels:
- more direct
- less relaxed
- significantly faster when pushed