2026 Specialized Tarmac SL8 Comp – SRAM Rival AXS
Nothing is faster than the Tarmac SL8. After eight generations and over two decades of relentless development, the Tarmac SL8 is not just the fastest Tarmac ever—it is the world’s fastest race bike.
Speed is not won by aerodynamics or lightweight alone. True performance comes from the perfect balance of aero efficiency, low weight, stiffness, and compliance. Real-world race simulations prove the Tarmac SL8 is faster where it matters most.
Proven Race Performance
- 16.6 seconds faster over 40 km
- 128 seconds faster over Milan–San Remo
- 20 seconds faster over the legendary Tourmalet climb
SRAM Rival AXS Performance
The Tarmac SL8 Comp now features the new SRAM Rival AXS electronic drivetrain, delivering lighter weight, effortless hydraulic braking, and lightning-fast wireless shifting. Combined with DT Swiss R470 wheels and an integrated cockpit, this build offers race-ready performance at an accessible level.
Aero in Everything
Aerodynamics are applied where they matter most—the leading edge. The new Speed Sniffer nose cone sharpens the head tube profile for reduced drag, while the ultra-narrow aero seatpost ensures cleaner airflow around the rider’s legs.
Minimum Weight, Maximum Aero
Drawing inspiration from the Aethos, the Tarmac SL8 can be built at the UCI minimum weight with a full aero setup. Advanced carbon shaping allows the frame to carry loads efficiently, eliminating unnecessary material without compromising stiffness or ride quality.
Goes Like Hell, Rides Like Heaven
With a 33% improvement in stiffness-to-weight over the SL7 and 6% more compliance, the Tarmac SL8 delivers explosive acceleration, razor-sharp handling, and a surprisingly smooth ride. Rider-First Engineering™ ensures identical ride quality across all frame sizes.
Key Highlights
- FACT 10r carbon aero race frame
- SRAM Rival AXS E1 12-speed wireless drivetrain
- Hydraulic disc brakes for confident control
- DT Swiss R470 tubeless-ready wheelset
- Race-proven geometry with 32mm tire clearance
| Frame | Tarmac SL8 FACT 10r Carbon, Rider First Engineered™, Win Tunnel Engineered, Clean Routing, threaded BB, 12x142mm thru-axle, flat-mount disc |
|---|---|
| Seat Binder | Tarmac integrated wedge |
| Fork | FACT 10r Carbon, 12x100mm thru-axle, flat-mount disc |
|---|
| Front Brake | SRAM Rival AXS E1 hydraulic disc, 160mm rotor |
|---|---|
| Rear Brake | SRAM Rival AXS E1 hydraulic disc, 160mm rotor |
| Shift Levers | SRAM Rival AXS E1 HRD |
|---|---|
| Front Derailleur | SRAM Rival AXS E1 |
| Rear Derailleur | SRAM Rival AXS E1 |
| Cassette | SRAM Rival XG-1250, 12-speed, 10–36T |
| Chain | SRAM Rival E1 |
| Crankset | SRAM Rival E1, 48/35T |
| Bottom Bracket | SRAM DUB BSA |
| Front Wheel | DT Swiss R470 rim, 20mm internal width, tubeless ready, 24h, Specialized sealed bearing hub, Centerlock disc |
|---|---|
| Rear Wheel | DT Swiss R470 rim, 20mm internal width, tubeless ready, 24h, Specialized sealed bearing hub, Centerlock disc |
| Front Tire | S-Works Turbo, 120 TPI, BlackBelt protection, 700x26mm |
| Rear Tire | S-Works Turbo, 120 TPI, BlackBelt protection, 700x26mm |
| Inner Tubes | Turbo Ultralight, 48mm Presta valve |
| Stem | Tarmac integrated stem, 6-degree |
|---|---|
| Handlebars | Specialized Shallow Drop, 6061 alloy, 70x125mm, 31.8mm clamp |
| Tape | Supacaz Super Sticky Kush |
| Saddle | Body Geometry Power Sport, steel rails |
| Seatpost | S-Works Tarmac SL8 Carbon seat post, FACT Carbon, 15mm offset |
| Weight | 7.77 kg (17 lb, 2.1 oz) |
|---|---|
| Weight Size | 56 |
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
