Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL7 review

We've been using Specialized's brand new Tarmac for a couple of weeks, and here are our initial thoughts

Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL7
(Image: © Specialized)

Cyclingnews Verdict

The Tarmac SL7 is a thoroughbred race bike with a dedicated focus on being fast, perhaps better described as a lightweight Venge, but it's let down by lack of tubeless wheels

Pros

  • +

    Aerodynamics and power transfer on par with Venge

  • +

    Weight (6.89kg tested, size 58cm)

Cons

  • -

    Non-tubeless wheels

  • -

    Harsher ride than Tarmac SL6

  • -

    Huge price

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"One bike to rule them all." That was the tag line when Specialized announced the new Tarmac. The aim was to launch a bike that offered no compromises on race day. With it, the American brand put the first nail into the coffin of its own aero bike, the Venge, by stating that there would be no advantage for a rider to choose it over the new Tarmac. 

In actual fact, the aerodynamic differences still swing in favour of the Venge - to the tune of 2.5 watts. However, with all metrics factored in, such as rider freshness, handling, acceleration and, of course, weight, the Tarmac was the victor on all of Specialized's course profile simulations. 

Josh Croxton
Associate Editor (Tech)

Josh is Associate Editor of Cyclingnews – leading our content on the best bikes, kit and the latest breaking tech stories from the pro peloton. He has been with us since the summer of 2019 and throughout that time he's covered everything from buyer's guides and deals to the latest tech news and reviews. 

On the bike, Josh has been riding and racing for over 15 years. He started out racing cross country in his teens back when 26-inch wheels and triple chainsets were still mainstream, but he found favour in road racing in his early 20s, racing at a local and national level for Somerset-based Team Tor 2000. These days he rides indoors for convenience and fitness, and outdoors for fun on road, gravel, 'cross and cross-country bikes, the latter usually with his two dogs in tow.