Like this site? "As there is likely more difference between two male cyclists than there are between a male and a female, gender alone doesn't provide nearly enough data to specialise," says Cam Piper. Fucks sakes. Forgot to include to my photo above the tarmac stem and stem faceplate computer mounts. At first glance, the new Tarmac SL7 looks as if the SL6 and Venge aero-road bike had mated. "From there we strategically over-wrapped these frames with carbon in our composites shop to hit stiffness targets. This is what you get. All of these models are designed for both men and women. Specialized claims the frame weight is 920 grams painted, while the S-Works version is 800. Additionally, the fork was also not as laterally stiff as we hoped and would cause a bit of brake rub as the pads would shift under heavy braking. The hood/top transition is nice and smooth with SRAMs AXS shifters. Because the internal dimensions are identical, tire sizes remain constant front to rear, even though the external width profile is 8mm different. Specialized has launched a new version of its Tarmac, the SL7, which it claims is almost as aerodynamically efficient as its current Venge aero road bike while being at the UCI's minimum weight limit for racing. Its a very fast race bike. 
"By targeting the tubes that truly impact the aero performance of the frame, whether it's the seat tube, the seatstays, the head tube or the fork blades, all with shapes from our FreeFoil Shape Library [the collection of airfoil shapes that Specialized has developed], and then mating them with the fastest components that we have at our disposal and integrating the cabling, we created a package that is 45secs faster over 40km than the Tarmac SL6," says Cam Piper. An Expert will set you back $5000 with Shimano Ultegra Di2 and $7000 Will get you one of the two Pro models. Them's the rules, so which do you want, the aero one or the lightweight one? The bottom bracket junction remains a very similar design to the previous, but with slight refinements to offer the extra clearance. How does that work? Its worth noting that stiffer isnt always better. But they do ride slightly differently despite using the same numbers. In our discussion with Specialized engineers, they were clear that while theres a floor that they were seeking in terms of stiffness, there was no specific target number. 2020 S-Works SL7 - Sagan Collection / Decon Green/Yellow. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Asking riders to pick between two different bikes is so 2019! 
With the SL7, the two models have fully coalesced. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. Integrated Tarmac Stem with mechanical shifting So, what about the new Tarmac SL7? In other good news, the SL7 sticks with a standard threaded bottom bracket. The stem can be swapped and moved up and down on the steerer without having to re-run brake lines or Di2 cables, assuming line and wire lengths are adequate. As a subscriber you can read road.cc ad-free, from as little as 1.99. I still think Specialized has put itself in a bit of a pickle. So good and so fast that two of the brands existing road bikes, the SL6 and Venge, have reached overnight obsolescence. Its a lighter Venge as much as its a more aero Tarmac. Frame FACT 12r carbon Compared to a Venge, maybe a tiny bit. The new Tarmac integrated stem used on all the SL7 models is said to save 45g over the previous version. S-Works eTap & UDi2 $12,000 Wheels DT R470 Disc, Tarmac SL7 Expert 4,750 Youll see that even with our WorldTour athletes, theyre all in agreement and really have validated the performance of the new bike, and will be racing that going forward, Piper said. The rear is 27mm wide external and looks much more like the current Roval lineup with 2.5mm hook beads. "We started with our doctrine of a new shape for speed," says Cam Piper. What does a 58 venge weigh again? Pro eTap $7,000 If youve enjoyed this article, then please consider subscribing to road.cc from as little as 1.99. To best achieve this, you lose the tight gear gaps that you want on a race bike. This makes pace-matching difficult in fast-paced group rides or races. Pro UDi2 6,500 Frame FACT 9r carbon A Specialized Tarmac SL7 review bike was delivered to road.cc a couple of weeks ago, and Stu has had the chance to write a First Ride, so make sure you check that out. Were told the SL7 has 17-percent less surface area than the current Venge while hitting the same weight as the current SL6 Tarmac. Want even more? S-Works Di2 $18,000 Pro UDi2 $10,500 
I even snagged the Strava KOM on one of them (though I think downhill road KOMs are a bit nuts and possibly shouldnt exist). The slight changes are to the head-tube length, which is 1cm shorter on paper for our size 54 at 13.3cm (same as the current Venge.) Because it really does feel like an SL6 and go like a Venge. On the road, the SL7 feels and responds like its predecessor. Confidence is good for bike racers. The only choice you need to make is when to attack.". Maybe the Tarmac is now the race bike for pros, and the next Venge will chuck UCI regulations out the window and come back faster than ever. 
Theres not much else to say about the geometry, which is identical across all three models. As many know, the Tarmac SL6 is one of our favorite bikes and it often serves as the base for many of our wheel and component reviews. "Aero, stiff, light pick three," says Specialized (presumably a reference to Keith Bontrager's "Strong, light, cheap: pick two" line from back in the day). We wondered this because the last time we rode their aero-prioritized Venge, we were not fans of the flat, angled aero-handlebars or the harsh ride in the saddle. As evident below, the Tarmac SL7 is not cheap. Orange Seal, does it live up to it's fame. Interestingly, these wheels aren't tubeless ready, even though Roval says that it is committed to tubeless technology. Groupset SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x THROWBACK THURSDAY, 2020: WAS THOMAS DE GENDT CHEATING ON ZWIFT? If you choose the $12,000 S-Works version, youre paying a premium for the badging and some fancier parts. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. Compared to an SL6, Id say no. So not only do they not get a deserved medal, they have to pay the twats at the UCI 172 eachbecause they, rightly, performed a small Editorial, general: info [at] road.cc When you keep surfing on this site you agree with the cookie usage. Theyre all phenomenal. Tech, reviews: tech [at] road.cc S-Works eTap 10,499 A full review will follow in the next few weeks. This may sound odd, but what got us most excited about the new SL7 is simply the fact that it has a threaded bottom bracket. Specialized has accounted for this. Get real time updates directly on you device, subscribe now. So what is it? We have worked with our teams [Specialized is the bike supplier to Deceuninck-Quick-Step and Bora-Hansgrohe pro teams] to make sure that the stiffness is optimal for racing, based on their feedback. So good job, people of the Internet, pat yourselves on the back for a job well done. Advertising, commercial: sales [at] road.cc Specialized's 800g weight claim (see above) relates to a painted frame in the lightest finish. The new S-Works Tarmac Carbon Seatpost provides an integrated location for a Shimano Di2 Junction Box. As we step back and analyze the new SL7, its clear to us that Venge owners will get a fairly significant overall gain if they make the switch. The front is 35mm wide external with 6mm hooked beads on each side. Di2 integration is excellent, placing the junction box in the back of the seatpost like the Venge. A WEATHERED EVOLUTION IN ICELAND RIDING THE LAUF SEIGLA, PNW COMPONENTS RELEASES THE SATELLITE SADDLE BAG, 6 FACTS ABOUT VARICOSE VEINS FOR CYCLISTS, click here for the whole story on why they are not. The integrated cockpit looks nice and, like the Venge, is quite comfortable. Roval calls these "the fastest all-around road wheels in the world but then, it would. Here's ourFirst Ride Review of theSpecialized S-Works Tarmac SL7 Dura-Ace Di2. It feels almost silly trying to compare the new SL7 to the SL6 or the Venge in any meaningful way. All Rights Reserved. Its also, on its own merits, an exceptionally good bike. A Tarmac SL7 is the ultimate expression of what that is. Roval says that the extra rim width helps to boost stability, while the claimed weights are 649g (front) and 751g (rear). Of course, brands have lightened their aero bikes, and aero-ed their light bikes, but you've always had to decide where your priorities lie. We wondered, did we get too much of the Venge and not enough of the SL6? 2021 BMC Teammachine SLR01: The fourth generation revealed and reviewed, 2021 Trek Emonda review: the semi-aero, 'faster everywhere' climbing bike, Roval ditches tubeless with its new Rapide and Alpinist CLX wheels, The VengeCast: meet the design team behind the new Specialized Venge, The new 2019 Specialized Venge first-ride review: Aero is not everything, Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL6 Disc review: Goes faster, stops harder. Is it stiff? He has won his category in Ironman UK 70.3 and finished on the podium in both marathons he has run. The Venge only takes electronic drivetrains, either eTap or Di2, but the SL7 solves that problem. Not really, at least as far as integrated cockpits go. 
The S-Works SL7 frame weighs a claimed 800 grams. Groupset Shimano Ultegra Di2 Groupset Shimano Ultegra Di2 All of the SL7 frame levels will now have a threaded bottom bracket, meaning no deciphering what OSBB is and no more creaking bottom brackets. If you want the best aerodynamics you need deep tubes and that means more material and more weight. Itll fit a 32mm tire easily. Its quite Tarmac-like. You can feel the road underneath you, feel the bike move on it. Its not uncomfortable, but there are no flexy bits or handlebar shocks to take the edge off. The Venge was released only two years ago, and the Tarmac and Venge have co-existed peacefully within the companys line for years. Expert UDi2 $5,000 
Frame FACT 10r carbon Is the Tarmac SL7 more aero than a Venge? Pro eTap $10,500 Although the SL7 takes over the higher levels of the Tarmac range, the FACT 9r carbon version of the SL6 is still available. I love the Venge, and dont want to see it killed by its own sibling. The front end of the SL6 might have been a little too stiff or harsh and the rear was a bit more compliant; we've really worked to make sure that the ride feel is more balanced on the SL7.". "We worked to create the best possible package at the UCI's [6.8kg minimum] weight limit. You must TAKE THE SHOT! Expert UDi2 4,750 So currently the Venge in our line right now does not meet much of a need for that rider looking for the performance product.. Specialized said it themselves. The wheels are held in place by 12mm thru axles. "It's not always about increasing stiffness, it's about properly using the stiffness values where it matters the most for the rider. Groupset SRAM Red eTap AXS (inc Quarq power meter) There are six Specialized Tarmac SL7 complete bikes: S-Works Tarmac SL7 Red eTap AXS 10,500 The biggest changes come in the form of added emphasis on the aero refinement of the frame tubes. And, its not that we dont think its a viable road option, just more difficult to validate in our local SoCal terrain that favors a fairly large range between the steep and sustained climbs with matching extended descending. 
The stem on the Pro and Expert doesn't have titan bolts at least, and it doesn't say S-Works on. Why break up the power couple? That said, external routing is obviously way less annoying. The SL7 is, they say, the best of both worlds. 
The rear wheel is 61mm deep, while the front is 52mm deep. For the last few product cycles, the Tarmac and the Venge have been inching closer together. My 100mm Tarmac stem from an Expert with titan bolts was 161g (ww so have to change the bolts. Yes they are,and it hasa better parcours than Poland. Thats heavier than the 733 grams (claimed) of an SL6, but lighter than the 960 gram Venge. "Creating the Tarmac SL7 was an exercise in patience," says Cam Piper. " I can see the S-Works framesets in the usual retail channels, but as yet haven't seen any of the normal frames. Is the Tarmac SL7 stiffer? Once again, Gaviria finds himself in a race with absolutely no flat ground whatsoever! Yet another knee-jerk reaction. A bit of pressure on the right side of the bar sends the bike arcing right. As mentioned before, the aero bars are the same as what has been supplied on the Venge. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information. Weve noticed youre using an ad blocker. I know how fast I usually go, and an extra few kph is obvious. When it comes to launching new race bikes, the folks at Specialized are fairly predictable. "It doesn't now feel right to sell riders a bike that's offering a compromise. The biggest change is the adaptation of completely hidden, internally routed cables and hoses. TheFACT(Functional Advanced Composite Technology) 12r carbon fibre used forthe top-level S-Works TarmacSL7was also used forthe S-Works Tarmac SL6. Think Im kidding? All material FarrellyAtkinson (F-At) Limited, Unit 7b Green Park Station BA11JB. THROWBACK THURSDAY, 2012: TOUR DE FRANCE TIME-TRIAL TECH, SPECIALIZED S-WORKS TORCH ROAD SHOES REVIEW, SPECIALIZED LIED TO EVERYONE ABOUT TUBELESS, FLASHBACK FRIDAY, 2018: PARLEE CHEBACCO LE PROJECT BIKE, 2022 CALIFORNIA COAST CLASSIC BICYCLE TOUR, $8000 vs $4000 vs $1000 ROAD BIKE WHEELS: WHATS THE. Not quite. I like the flat tops on the bars and the slight texture added so your hands dont slip. ", Read our review of theSpecialized S-Works Venge Di2. Claimed weight is 6.7kg for the Di2 model. It wants to corner. Now over 50, he's riding road and gravel bikes most days for fun and fitness rather than training for competitions. It is available in 11 sizes. "The tube shapes of the SL7 are a bit deeper [than those of the SL6] so the compliance is not going to be as great at the rear, but it is better balanced. The Tarmac SL7 Pro and Expert models (see below) are made from Specialized's FACT 10r carbon and have a claimed frame weight of 920g 15% heavier than the S-Works frame. 
Taking this approach means the final product is lightweight, aero and capable: no compromises.". With that said, it is still very much a race-oriented bike. "It takes the idea that are aero advantage does not need to come at the expense of weight or ride quality. If youve ridden an SL6 or a Venge, you know roughly how the SL7 corners. "Separating the SL7 into two separate platforms would be arbitrary and outdated so we used all our resources to develop the perfect bike for any rider, regardless of their gender. 10r Frameset $4,500, GBP: For us, the bike is a great option, and to be honest, the Pro model is probably the way to go for most. In the meantime, let's look at what Specialized has to say about the ride. 
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This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Expert UDi2 $7,500 Groupset Shimano Ultegra (mechanical) "As fast and as light as the new frame is, we couldn't have achieved all our goals without the fastest components in the world," says Cam Piper. US brand says you no longer need to choose between light weight and top-level aerodynamics this bike is sub-6.8kg with as little drag as the Venge, Best Cycling Website, BikeBiz Awards 2018, 2021 Specialized S-WorksTarmac SL7 -DI2-FLORED-TARBLK-WHT_HERO.jpg, in: Shimano Ultegra R8170 Di2 Disc Groupset, in: Police officer borrows bike to chase after fleeing suspect, in: Hoy: Safety screens could have prevented Matt Wallscrash, in: NMotD 807: Maniacal laugh after driver pulls out, in: 2 dead, 3 injured after driver crashes into charity cyclists, in: Commonwealth Games apologises to England tandem team, Cyclists call for resignation of hit-and-run councillor (includes video), Update: Olympic champion Matt Walls out of hospital after horrific crash into crowd during Commonwealth Games scratch race, Commonwealth Games organisers apologise to England tandem team fined by UCI for bronze medal protest, Google Maps makes major update to cycling navigation, Naked tandem couple hit by driver in Scotland make it to Lands End, Teenage cyclist to stand trial after pedestrian seriously injured, Near Miss of the Day 807: Driver comes out with maniacal laugh after pulling out on cyclist, Cardiff cul-de-sac residents lose battle to stop house being demolished to make way for cycle path.
With the SL7, the two models have fully coalesced. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. Integrated Tarmac Stem with mechanical shifting So, what about the new Tarmac SL7? In other good news, the SL7 sticks with a standard threaded bottom bracket. The stem can be swapped and moved up and down on the steerer without having to re-run brake lines or Di2 cables, assuming line and wire lengths are adequate. As a subscriber you can read road.cc ad-free, from as little as 1.99. I still think Specialized has put itself in a bit of a pickle. So good and so fast that two of the brands existing road bikes, the SL6 and Venge, have reached overnight obsolescence. Its a lighter Venge as much as its a more aero Tarmac. Frame FACT 12r carbon Compared to a Venge, maybe a tiny bit. The new Tarmac integrated stem used on all the SL7 models is said to save 45g over the previous version. S-Works eTap & UDi2 $12,000 Wheels DT R470 Disc, Tarmac SL7 Expert 4,750 Youll see that even with our WorldTour athletes, theyre all in agreement and really have validated the performance of the new bike, and will be racing that going forward, Piper said. The rear is 27mm wide external and looks much more like the current Roval lineup with 2.5mm hook beads. "We started with our doctrine of a new shape for speed," says Cam Piper. What does a 58 venge weigh again? Pro eTap $7,000 If youve enjoyed this article, then please consider subscribing to road.cc from as little as 1.99. To best achieve this, you lose the tight gear gaps that you want on a race bike. This makes pace-matching difficult in fast-paced group rides or races. Pro UDi2 6,500 Frame FACT 9r carbon A Specialized Tarmac SL7 review bike was delivered to road.cc a couple of weeks ago, and Stu has had the chance to write a First Ride, so make sure you check that out. Were told the SL7 has 17-percent less surface area than the current Venge while hitting the same weight as the current SL6 Tarmac. Want even more? S-Works Di2 $18,000 Pro UDi2 $10,500 I even snagged the Strava KOM on one of them (though I think downhill road KOMs are a bit nuts and possibly shouldnt exist). The slight changes are to the head-tube length, which is 1cm shorter on paper for our size 54 at 13.3cm (same as the current Venge.) Because it really does feel like an SL6 and go like a Venge. On the road, the SL7 feels and responds like its predecessor. Confidence is good for bike racers. The only choice you need to make is when to attack.". Maybe the Tarmac is now the race bike for pros, and the next Venge will chuck UCI regulations out the window and come back faster than ever. Theres not much else to say about the geometry, which is identical across all three models. As many know, the Tarmac SL6 is one of our favorite bikes and it often serves as the base for many of our wheel and component reviews. "Aero, stiff, light pick three," says Specialized (presumably a reference to Keith Bontrager's "Strong, light, cheap: pick two" line from back in the day). We wondered this because the last time we rode their aero-prioritized Venge, we were not fans of the flat, angled aero-handlebars or the harsh ride in the saddle. As evident below, the Tarmac SL7 is not cheap. Orange Seal, does it live up to it's fame. Interestingly, these wheels aren't tubeless ready, even though Roval says that it is committed to tubeless technology. Groupset SRAM Force eTap AXS 1x THROWBACK THURSDAY, 2020: WAS THOMAS DE GENDT CHEATING ON ZWIFT? If you choose the $12,000 S-Works version, youre paying a premium for the badging and some fancier parts. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. Compared to an SL6, Id say no. So not only do they not get a deserved medal, they have to pay the twats at the UCI 172 eachbecause they, rightly, performed a small Editorial, general: info [at] road.cc When you keep surfing on this site you agree with the cookie usage. Theyre all phenomenal. Tech, reviews: tech [at] road.cc S-Works eTap 10,499 A full review will follow in the next few weeks. This may sound odd, but what got us most excited about the new SL7 is simply the fact that it has a threaded bottom bracket. Specialized has accounted for this. Get real time updates directly on you device, subscribe now. So what is it? We have worked with our teams [Specialized is the bike supplier to Deceuninck-Quick-Step and Bora-Hansgrohe pro teams] to make sure that the stiffness is optimal for racing, based on their feedback. So good job, people of the Internet, pat yourselves on the back for a job well done. Advertising, commercial: sales [at] road.cc Specialized's 800g weight claim (see above) relates to a painted frame in the lightest finish. The new S-Works Tarmac Carbon Seatpost provides an integrated location for a Shimano Di2 Junction Box. As we step back and analyze the new SL7, its clear to us that Venge owners will get a fairly significant overall gain if they make the switch. The front is 35mm wide external with 6mm hooked beads on each side. Di2 integration is excellent, placing the junction box in the back of the seatpost like the Venge. A WEATHERED EVOLUTION IN ICELAND RIDING THE LAUF SEIGLA, PNW COMPONENTS RELEASES THE SATELLITE SADDLE BAG, 6 FACTS ABOUT VARICOSE VEINS FOR CYCLISTS, click here for the whole story on why they are not. The integrated cockpit looks nice and, like the Venge, is quite comfortable. Roval calls these "the fastest all-around road wheels in the world but then, it would. Here's ourFirst Ride Review of theSpecialized S-Works Tarmac SL7 Dura-Ace Di2. It feels almost silly trying to compare the new SL7 to the SL6 or the Venge in any meaningful way. All Rights Reserved. Its also, on its own merits, an exceptionally good bike. A Tarmac SL7 is the ultimate expression of what that is. Roval says that the extra rim width helps to boost stability, while the claimed weights are 649g (front) and 751g (rear). Of course, brands have lightened their aero bikes, and aero-ed their light bikes, but you've always had to decide where your priorities lie. We wondered, did we get too much of the Venge and not enough of the SL6? 2021 BMC Teammachine SLR01: The fourth generation revealed and reviewed, 2021 Trek Emonda review: the semi-aero, 'faster everywhere' climbing bike, Roval ditches tubeless with its new Rapide and Alpinist CLX wheels, The VengeCast: meet the design team behind the new Specialized Venge, The new 2019 Specialized Venge first-ride review: Aero is not everything, Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL6 Disc review: Goes faster, stops harder. Is it stiff? He has won his category in Ironman UK 70.3 and finished on the podium in both marathons he has run. The Venge only takes electronic drivetrains, either eTap or Di2, but the SL7 solves that problem. Not really, at least as far as integrated cockpits go. The S-Works SL7 frame weighs a claimed 800 grams. Groupset Shimano Ultegra Di2 Groupset Shimano Ultegra Di2 All of the SL7 frame levels will now have a threaded bottom bracket, meaning no deciphering what OSBB is and no more creaking bottom brackets. If you want the best aerodynamics you need deep tubes and that means more material and more weight. Itll fit a 32mm tire easily. Its quite Tarmac-like. You can feel the road underneath you, feel the bike move on it. Its not uncomfortable, but there are no flexy bits or handlebar shocks to take the edge off. The Venge was released only two years ago, and the Tarmac and Venge have co-existed peacefully within the companys line for years. Expert UDi2 $5,000 Frame FACT 10r carbon Is the Tarmac SL7 more aero than a Venge? Pro eTap $10,500 Although the SL7 takes over the higher levels of the Tarmac range, the FACT 9r carbon version of the SL6 is still available. I love the Venge, and dont want to see it killed by its own sibling. The front end of the SL6 might have been a little too stiff or harsh and the rear was a bit more compliant; we've really worked to make sure that the ride feel is more balanced on the SL7.". "We worked to create the best possible package at the UCI's [6.8kg minimum] weight limit. You must TAKE THE SHOT! Expert UDi2 4,750 So currently the Venge in our line right now does not meet much of a need for that rider looking for the performance product.. Specialized said it themselves. The wheels are held in place by 12mm thru axles. "It's not always about increasing stiffness, it's about properly using the stiffness values where it matters the most for the rider. Groupset SRAM Red eTap AXS (inc Quarq power meter) There are six Specialized Tarmac SL7 complete bikes: S-Works Tarmac SL7 Red eTap AXS 10,500 The biggest changes come in the form of added emphasis on the aero refinement of the frame tubes. And, its not that we dont think its a viable road option, just more difficult to validate in our local SoCal terrain that favors a fairly large range between the steep and sustained climbs with matching extended descending. The rear wheel is 61mm deep, while the front is 52mm deep. For the last few product cycles, the Tarmac and the Venge have been inching closer together. My 100mm Tarmac stem from an Expert with titan bolts was 161g (ww so have to change the bolts. Yes they are,and it hasa better parcours than Poland. Thats heavier than the 733 grams (claimed) of an SL6, but lighter than the 960 gram Venge. "Creating the Tarmac SL7 was an exercise in patience," says Cam Piper. " I can see the S-Works framesets in the usual retail channels, but as yet haven't seen any of the normal frames. Is the Tarmac SL7 stiffer? Once again, Gaviria finds himself in a race with absolutely no flat ground whatsoever! Yet another knee-jerk reaction. A bit of pressure on the right side of the bar sends the bike arcing right. As mentioned before, the aero bars are the same as what has been supplied on the Venge. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information. Weve noticed youre using an ad blocker. I know how fast I usually go, and an extra few kph is obvious. When it comes to launching new race bikes, the folks at Specialized are fairly predictable. "It doesn't now feel right to sell riders a bike that's offering a compromise. The biggest change is the adaptation of completely hidden, internally routed cables and hoses. TheFACT(Functional Advanced Composite Technology) 12r carbon fibre used forthe top-level S-Works TarmacSL7was also used forthe S-Works Tarmac SL6. Think Im kidding? All material FarrellyAtkinson (F-At) Limited, Unit 7b Green Park Station BA11JB. THROWBACK THURSDAY, 2012: TOUR DE FRANCE TIME-TRIAL TECH, SPECIALIZED S-WORKS TORCH ROAD SHOES REVIEW, SPECIALIZED LIED TO EVERYONE ABOUT TUBELESS, FLASHBACK FRIDAY, 2018: PARLEE CHEBACCO LE PROJECT BIKE, 2022 CALIFORNIA COAST CLASSIC BICYCLE TOUR, $8000 vs $4000 vs $1000 ROAD BIKE WHEELS: WHATS THE. Not quite. I like the flat tops on the bars and the slight texture added so your hands dont slip. ", Read our review of theSpecialized S-Works Venge Di2. Claimed weight is 6.7kg for the Di2 model. It wants to corner. Now over 50, he's riding road and gravel bikes most days for fun and fitness rather than training for competitions. It is available in 11 sizes. "The tube shapes of the SL7 are a bit deeper [than those of the SL6] so the compliance is not going to be as great at the rear, but it is better balanced. The Tarmac SL7 Pro and Expert models (see below) are made from Specialized's FACT 10r carbon and have a claimed frame weight of 920g 15% heavier than the S-Works frame. Taking this approach means the final product is lightweight, aero and capable: no compromises.". With that said, it is still very much a race-oriented bike. "It takes the idea that are aero advantage does not need to come at the expense of weight or ride quality. If youve ridden an SL6 or a Venge, you know roughly how the SL7 corners. "Separating the SL7 into two separate platforms would be arbitrary and outdated so we used all our resources to develop the perfect bike for any rider, regardless of their gender. 10r Frameset $4,500, GBP: For us, the bike is a great option, and to be honest, the Pro model is probably the way to go for most. In the meantime, let's look at what Specialized has to say about the ride. The revenue from adverts helps to fund our site. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Expert UDi2 $7,500 Groupset Shimano Ultegra (mechanical) "As fast and as light as the new frame is, we couldn't have achieved all our goals without the fastest components in the world," says Cam Piper. US brand says you no longer need to choose between light weight and top-level aerodynamics this bike is sub-6.8kg with as little drag as the Venge, Best Cycling Website, BikeBiz Awards 2018, 2021 Specialized S-WorksTarmac SL7 -DI2-FLORED-TARBLK-WHT_HERO.jpg, in: Shimano Ultegra R8170 Di2 Disc Groupset, in: Police officer borrows bike to chase after fleeing suspect, in: Hoy: Safety screens could have prevented Matt Wallscrash, in: NMotD 807: Maniacal laugh after driver pulls out, in: 2 dead, 3 injured after driver crashes into charity cyclists, in: Commonwealth Games apologises to England tandem team, Cyclists call for resignation of hit-and-run councillor (includes video), Update: Olympic champion Matt Walls out of hospital after horrific crash into crowd during Commonwealth Games scratch race, Commonwealth Games organisers apologise to England tandem team fined by UCI for bronze medal protest, Google Maps makes major update to cycling navigation, Naked tandem couple hit by driver in Scotland make it to Lands End, Teenage cyclist to stand trial after pedestrian seriously injured, Near Miss of the Day 807: Driver comes out with maniacal laugh after pulling out on cyclist, Cardiff cul-de-sac residents lose battle to stop house being demolished to make way for cycle path.