Mont Ventoux shootout – Specialized S Works Tarmac SL8 in review

Despite the numerous aero optimisations, the Specialized Tarmac SL8 tips the scales at just 6.96 kg in size 56. And the price is rather remarkable too at €14,000! But how does the fastest bike in Specialized’s portfolio fare on Mont Ventoux? We’ve put it through the wringer to find out!

Since its launch last year, the new Tarmac has been praised over and over – and rightly so! And when it comes to the spec, there’s nothing to complain about either. The S-Works Tarmac SL8 impresses with top build quality and a well-thought-out geometry. It’s that simple. With a system weight of just under 7 kg in size 56, it sets new standards in the aero road bike segment. Particularly striking is the Roval Rapide CLX II wheelset, as well as the S-Works Turbo tires, and SRAM Red eTap AXS groupset. You’ll find all the details in our in-depth review of the 2024 Specialized Tarmac SL8.

The Ultimate all-rounder – A Closer Look at the Specialized Tarmac SL8

Timeless, established, up-to-date – not only is the SL8 a classic performance powerhouse but also an award-worthy design object. At first glance, the premium pearl paint finish with matte accents is extremely captivating. While the colour might not be to everyone’s taste, the bike’s overall aesthetics are undeniably appealing.

There’s no debate: for our specific purpose, the Tarmac SL8 spec variant is a top choice. The smallest gear (35-33) is more than enough to tackle steep climbs, and the SRAM RED groupset shifts precisely and reliably, even at low cadence with heavier chain load. The ergonomically shaped grips are well-suited to smaller hands. A handy tip: adding grip tape to the shifters helps prevent slipping with sweaty hands.

The geometry of the Tarmac has been refined over the years, which is something you can really feel. This bike follows one mantra: performance, absolutely! But with a touch of comfort. The slightly stretched riding position ensures efficient power transfer, while the slightly raised front end adds stability and comfort on longer rides. With a stack-to-reach ratio of 1.43, it strikes a balance that suits both aggressive racers and sporty weekend warriors, matching the figures of the Giant TCR Advanced SL and Canyon Ultimate CFR Di2 Aero. The short chainstays ensure nimble, responsive handling, which is particularly noticeable in tight corners and with quick direction changes. At the same time, the moderate head tube length provides a comfortable riding position, relieving strain on your back and minimising pressure on your hands.

Size	44	49	52	54	56	58	61
Seat Tube	435 mm	447 mm	458 mm	475 mm	496 mm	517 mm	547 mm
Top Tube	496 mm	509 mm	531 mm	541 mm	563 mm	577 mm	595 mm
Head Tube	93 mm	102 mm	113 mm	131 mm	151 mm	178 mm	198 mm
Head Angle	70.50°	71.75°	72.50°	73.00°	73.50°	73.50°	74.00°
Seat Angle	75.50°	75.50°	74.00°	74.00°	73.50°	73.50°	73.00°
Chainstay	410 mm	410 mm	410 mm	410 mm	410 mm	410 mm	410 mm
BB Drop	74 mm	74 mm	74 mm	72 mm	72 mm	72 mm	72 mm
Wheelbase	970 mm	973 mm	975 mm	978 mm	991 mm	1,006 mm	1,013 mm
Reach	369 mm	378 mm	383 mm	387 mm	398 mm	405 mm	411 mm
Stack	491 mm	504 mm	517 mm	534 mm	555 mm	581 mm	602 mm

Specialized Tarmac SL8 on Mont Ventoux on review

On Mont Ventoux, it was all about the climb: power down on the pedals, tension on the chain, and you instantly feel the frame’s mind-boggling stiffness, with no flex in the bottom bracket. The French road surface doesn’t hide its imperfections, sending a few chilling waves up your spine to remind you it’s there: Bonjour! But no matter – whether you’re standing or sitting, this machine moves forward with remarkable efficiency. The combination of wheels, frame, seatpost, and cockpit provides just the right amount of comfort. Once you find your rhythm and grind your way through the forest towards Chalet Reynard, the SL8 almost fades into the background, working reliably and always ready to spring into action when you feel like taking a tight switchback on the inside line.

Admittedly, we’re not storming up Mont Ventoux at an average of 20 km/h, so handling and precision at lower speeds are crucial. Even on the steep ramps, when your cadence drops and your upper body gets more involved, the Tarmac remains composed, sticking to its line like a loyal guide dog and responding intuitively to steering input.

With its steep 73.5° head angle and 44 mm fork offset, the Tarmac SL8 is set up perfectly for out-of-the-saddle efforts, giving you the confidence to channel your inner Yates twin. The cockpit does exactly what it’s supposed to do – no complaints about ergonomics or stiffness either. In fact, according to Specialized, the redesigned bar-stem unit is responsible for the biggest aero gains on the SL8.

Weighing in at just 6.96 kg, the Tarmac SL8 feels incredibly nimble, sprinting out of corners with great eagerness. On the steepest ramps, it trails only slightly behind the lighter Giant TCR Advanced SL and Canyon Ultimate CFR Di2 Aero. However, on gentler gradients, it makes up for this with outstanding efficiency. For a bike with such impressive aero performance, the Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL8 climbs remarkably well.

What goes up must come down. With the wind in your face and adrenaline kicking in, the Tarmac SL8’s precise, intuitive handling is a true godsend. The Specialized holds its line well and offers excellent control, even in tight corners. Compared to the ROSE XLITE UNLTD, the front end is slightly softer, which is noticeable above all under hard braking and makes the handling feel slightly less direct. However, this also makes the Tarmac more forgiving and easier to ride for less experienced descenders. The 28 mm tires generate good traction in corners and add to the bike’s overall comfort.

Riding downhill, the Tarmac is the most composed competitor in this test, and also the bike with the most impressive aero performance. In other words, you can clearly feel that the SL8 is the fastest bike in the test field. The only drawback is a slight susceptibility to crosswinds, which is mainly down to the wheels. With its deep 50/60 mm rims, at the front and rear, respectively, the Roval Rapide CLX II wheelset is the second deepest in this shootout.

Conclusions about the Specialized Tarmac SL8

The Specialized Tarmac SL8 is the fastest and most expensive bike in this comparison. It strikes an impressive balance between aero performance and compliance, especially considering its weight. The Roval Rapide cockpit shines across the board, making the Tarmac SL8 an exceptional all-rounder. It excels on rolling hills and at the same time shows its strengths on climbs. With intuitive handling and high comfort levels, it’s also a great choice for newbies who want to go straight for the top-tier option.

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Words: Dorian Steinhoff Photos: Jan Richter