FIRST RIDE: SPECIALIZED TARMAC SL2

Specialized Tarmac SL2

Stiffness is the main focus for Specialized?s Tarmac SL2, which in true Spinal Tap style scores an 11 on Specialized?s one-to-10 scale for the FACT carbon frame.

A one-and-a-half inch head tube makes space for a wider fork steerer and lower headset bearing, and also provides a larger surface area for the attachment of an oversized top tube and huge down tube. With the benefit of having their own integrated BB and cranks, Specialized?s engineers have also beefed up this critical tube junction.

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Founded in 1891, Cycling Weekly and its team of expert journalists brings cyclists in-depth reviews, extensive coverage of both professional and domestic racing, as well as fitness advice and 'brew a cuppa and put your feet up' features. Cycling Weekly serves its audience across a range of platforms, from good old-fashioned print to online journalism, and video.