The new Specialized Tarmac SL8 is the 'fastest race bike in the world' but is cheaper than before

US brand boasts aerodynamic improvements and a significant weight reduction over the outgoing SL7

Specialized Tarmac SL8 in red, side on on dark background
(Image credit: Specialized)

After months of speculation, a mysterious no-show at the Tour de France, and some possible sightings in the last few weeks, Specialized finally launched what is perhaps one of the most hyped releases of 2023 - the S-Works Tarmac SL8.

Specialized hasn’t been shy with its claims either - tagging the Tarmac SL8 as the "fastest race bike in the world" - not unlike BMC back in May last year - along with declarations of decreased weight and improved aerodynamics. Given these claims, and the fact that the SL7 is regarded as one of the best aero bikes, the latest iteration has plenty to live up to - so let's go ahead and break down the jargon.

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