{"id":2020258,"date":"2026-06-30T13:14:07","date_gmt":"2026-06-30T10:14:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2020258"},"modified":"2026-06-30T13:14:07","modified_gmt":"2026-06-30T10:14:07","slug":"win-fin-flow-fork-speed-sniffer-specialized-launches-fastest-road-bike-ever-made-in-the-s-works-tarmac-sl9","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2020258","title":{"rendered":"Win Fin, Flow Fork, Speed Sniffer: Specialized launches &#8216;fastest road bike ever made&#8217; in the S-Works Tarmac SL9"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-2560-80.png&#8221;]<\/p>\n<article class=\"m-0 box-border flex flex-row items-center pr-2.5 gap-[15px] w-[278px] h-20 flex-none upnext-article-divider\" role=\"listitem\" aria-label=\"Recommended article 1 of 3\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-none w-20 h-20\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UTeZtJbsZQWRHW3jeBTuTk-160-80.jpg.webp 160w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UTeZtJbsZQWRHW3jeBTuTk-80-80.jpg.webp 80w\" sizes=\"80px\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex items-center justify-center absolute w-4 h-6 left-0 top-0 bg-white\/90 flex-none z-[1]\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span class=\"font-normal text-base leading-[17px] tracking-[1.3px] uppercase text-black flex-none\">1<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col items-center justify-center gap-1.5 w-[173px] h-20 flex-none\">\n<p class=\"font-article-heading font-medium text-base leading-[21px] text-gray-800 w-[173px] line-clamp-3 group-hover:underline\">\n                                    Eurobike 2026: Five new bikes that caught my eye\n                                <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"m-0 box-border flex flex-row items-center pr-2.5 gap-[15px] w-[278px] h-20 flex-none upnext-article-divider\" role=\"listitem\" aria-label=\"Recommended article 2 of 3\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-none w-20 h-20\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MrTDCTCzjt7SqaA6aiM33B-160-80.png.webp 160w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MrTDCTCzjt7SqaA6aiM33B-80-80.png.webp 80w\" sizes=\"80px\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex items-center justify-center absolute w-[18px] h-6 left-0 top-0 bg-white\/90 flex-none z-[1]\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span class=\"font-normal text-base leading-[17px] tracking-[1.3px] uppercase text-black flex-none\">2<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col items-center justify-center gap-1.5 w-[173px] h-20 flex-none\">\n<p class=\"font-article-heading font-medium text-base leading-[21px] text-gray-800 w-[173px] line-clamp-3 group-hover:underline\">\n                                    Eurobike Tech Gallery: Unreleased gravel machines, crazy aero builds and futuristic concept bikes\n                                <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"m-0 box-border flex flex-row items-center pr-2.5 gap-[15px] w-[278px] h-20 flex-none\" role=\"listitem\" aria-label=\"Recommended article 3 of 3\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-none w-20 h-20\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-160-80.jpg.webp 160w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-80-80.jpg.webp 80w\" sizes=\"80px\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex items-center justify-center absolute w-[18px] h-6 left-0 top-0 bg-white\/90 flex-none z-[1]\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span class=\"font-normal text-base leading-[17px] tracking-[1.3px] uppercase text-black flex-none\">3<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col items-center justify-center gap-1.5 w-[173px] h-20 flex-none\">\n<p class=\"font-article-heading font-medium text-base leading-[21px] text-gray-800 w-[173px] line-clamp-3 group-hover:underline\">\n                                    &#8216;We did not design it to win a comparison table&#8217; &#8211; Look&#8217;s new race bike blends aero with real-world performance\n                                <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"page-content-onecol flex-1\nnews-article article\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"widget-area-group widget-area-group-2col flex flex-wrap box-border\">\n<div id=\"widgetArea16\" class=\"widget-area basis-full md:basis-2\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-2-3 page-widget-area-16\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"hero\" id=\"hero\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-hero widget-hero widget-hero-hero widget-hero widget-hero-fter-news\">\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nBikes\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>Win Fin, Flow Fork, Speed Sniffer: Specialized launches &#8216;fastest road bike ever made&#8217; in the S-Works Tarmac SL9<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"byline font-ui-heading text-[12px]\">\nFeatures<\/p>\n<div><span><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nJosh Croxton <\/span><span><br \/>\npublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-06-30T13:14:07Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n30 June 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">American brand draws on Formula 1 lap times software to quantify performance beyond just aero and weight<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"text-gray-700 mx-auto mb-4 flex items-center justify-start mx-0 my-5 p-0\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-[var(--affiliate-disclaimer--text-color,inherit))] mb-2 text-[length:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--font-size,0.75rem)] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-inherit [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"content\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-content widget-contentparsed-content widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-content_document \">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<section class=\"content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"box less-space hero-image-wrapper\">\n<figure class=\"mb-0\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-1920-80.png.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-1600-80.png.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-1200-80.png.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-1024-80.png.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-970-80.png.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-750-80.png.webp 750w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-480-80.png.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 600px, 100vw\" \/><figcaption class=\"font-article-copy text-(--image--text--color) font-article-copy mt-2\"><span class=\"credit font-article-copy\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo\" class=\"contents\" data-only-inline=\"1\">\n<div class=\"visible flex flex-row flex-nowrap sticky max-lg:-ml-5 top-[var(--site-header-height,60px)] sm:top-0 z-[9994] w-screen lg:w-full h-[50px] bg-white p-0 mb-5 border-neutral-200 border border-solid\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Variants:Inline\" data-analytics-id=\"sticky-nav\" id=\"sticky-nav--inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"sticky-nav\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-row w-full h-full overflow-x-scroll overflow-y-hidden tracking-normal overscroll-x-contain\" id=\"sticky-nav__scroll-container\"><span class=\"pl-4 my-auto text-base font-semibold font-article-heading lg:pl-3 lg:text-sm whitespace-nowrap uppercase\">Jump To:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-row w-auto border-y-0\">\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\nborder-b-[3px] border-b-(--jumpto-underline-color) border-solid font-semibold \" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>What&#8217;s new<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>The equation of speed<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>How does that relate to the Tarmac SL9?<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>The differences, in detail<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Deeper fork<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Lower down tube<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Narrower head tube<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Curved seat tube<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Narrower seat post<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Spec changes<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Tarmac SL9 vs Cervelo S5, Colnago Y1Rs and Factor ONE<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Early review<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Price and availability<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Team colours<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"font-ui-heading flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Social:Dropdown\" role=\"menu\" id=\"utilitybar__dropdown--share\" aria-labelledby=\"utilitybar__button--share\" class=\"absolute left-0 top-full w-44 bg-white rounded-md shadow-md border border-neutral-200 z-[9996] list-none m-0 py-2 px-3 border-solid\">\n<ul class=\"m-0!\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Facebook<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>X<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Pinterest<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Email<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-share-this-article\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nShare this article\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\"><span class=\"ml-1 inline-flex h-5 px-2 shrink-0 items-center justify-center self-center overflow-hidden whitespace-nowrap rounded-[10px] bg-primary-500 text-[11px] leading-none font-ui-heading font-semibold text-white\">4<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-join-the-conversation\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nJoin the conversation\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>Follow us<\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nAdd us as a preferred source on Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-bd617b88-3389-4661-88ce-62b736b0271a\">Today is the day many Specialized road bike fans will have been waiting for; the launch of the American brand&#8217;s latest flagship race bike.<\/p>\n<p>But no, it&#8217;s not a Venge as many predicted. It follows in its many predecessors&#8217; footsteps (tyre prints?) and is called the Tarmac SL9.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-bd617b88-3389-4661-88ce-62b736b0271a-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Its launch has been a typically turbulent Tarmac launch. It started, as it often does, with an early digital imagery leak courtesy of a farflung retailer and the WeightWeenies forum. It was then followed by social media leaks courtesy of Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe&#8217;s in-team photographer (who no doubt got a slap on the wrist before he duly deleted his post).<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-6 w-full overflow-hidden rounded-[10px] lg:my-8\" data-component-name=\"JwPlayer:Carousel\" data-jwp-carousel data-jwp-carousel-payload=\"{&quot;ids&quot;:{&quot;playerID&quot;:&quot;jYDCcabO&quot;,&quot;searchPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;divID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;fallbackPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;fallbackDivID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;key&quot;:&quot;X9\/mXVGac0NphghLH9hZaqWA5d3dhAM\/Ih07grnEyMLjuO2E&quot;,&quot;tintLogo&quot;:true,&quot;useSearchPlaylist&quot;:false,&quot;enabled&quot;:true},&quot;signPostingEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;signPostingLinkEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;waitForAdLoad&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnDesktop&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnMobile&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnTablet&quot;:false}\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-nowrap items-center justify-between gap-3 bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-header>\n<div class=\"flex min-w-0 shrink items-center\"><span class=\"inline-flex items-center gap-1.5 text-sm font-article-heading capitalize leading-5 text-white whitespace-nowrap\"><span class=\"jwp-carousel-title-desktop\">Latest Videos From<\/span><span class=\"jwp-carousel-brand inline-flex items-center\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] block h-[18px] w-auto shrink-0 brightness-0 invert\"><\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"aspect-video w-full min-h-[200px] lg:min-h-[330px] relative overflow-hidden bg-black\" data-jwp-carousel-container>\n<div class=\"absolute inset-0 size-full items-center justify-center bg-white\" data-jwp-carousel-fallback><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] max-h-12 w-auto\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"min-h-[44px] bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting><a class=\"invisible block truncate text-sm font-bold leading-5 text-white underline decoration-solid underline-offset-2\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting-link href target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-jwp-carousel-signposting-title>Watch full video here: <\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And it was then followed up by Dauphine spy photos courtesy of our very own Will Jones, who had to go full Daily Mail paparazzi and hide in a bush to get them, and was subsequently threatened on social media by a Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe mechanic. Fun.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-what-s-new\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>What&#8217;s new<\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-35729e12-aa4b-4ad8-85d2-d99eb0ba0bd5\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">At first glance, and second, the SL9 looks very similar to the SL8, but having been up close with one \u2013 I have one next to me right now as I type this \u2013 it&#8217;s fair to say a lot of work has gone into the bike that will probably go unnoticed.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CDs7SbZyWquz28KBAwjhFa-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CDs7SbZyWquz28KBAwjhFa-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">I hid in a bush to get the first spy shots of the new Specialized Tarmac SL9 at the newly-named Dauphin\u00e9<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Htfrknfjz3RdDHZzWcNArB-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Htfrknfjz3RdDHZzWcNArB-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Is this the new Tarmac SL9? Mystery Specialized bike spotted at team training camp<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWwHj83UjoSJJKJ7XA6maZ-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWwHj83UjoSJJKJ7XA6maZ-150-80.png.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Specialized promises its new Crux gravel bike is aero and lightweight, so we checked for ourselves in the wind tunnel \u2013 Can you have your cake and eat it?<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">In fact, every single tube has been reshaped in some way. The ones that stand out the most, however, are:<\/p>\n<ul id=\"elk-d69690c3-28b2-4895-b1b6-600ed4e1520d\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">\n<li>The seat tube now curves rearward to follow the shape of the tyre.<\/li>\n<li>The fork legs are now deeper and thus hide the deep &#8216;speed sniffer&#8217; head tube.<\/li>\n<li>The seatpost has a narrowed section for extra aero <em>gainz <\/em>between the rider&#8217;s legs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"elk-5b2effd8-13cc-429f-9352-c8f1584b724e\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">In brief, that leads to a bike that is four watts more aero than its predecessor. The claimed frame weight is two grams heavier at 687g (size 56cm in Raw Carbon \/ Gloss Amethyst Frost finish), but full builds now start at 6.5kg thanks to lighter-weight components.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Tyre clearance remains at 32mm, but the specced option has bumped up to 30mm.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">For today, the only version being revealed is the S-Works model. It&#8217;s safe to say that more budget-friendly models will follow in due course, but today is all about the flagship product and as we gear up for the Tour de France, the team replica framesets too.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-baa70563-54ae-48a8-8d55-6c850de8d4a7\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U25oCAx8Cpsj9j7FP8oqNP-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U25oCAx8Cpsj9j7FP8oqNP-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U25oCAx8Cpsj9j7FP8oqNP-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U25oCAx8Cpsj9j7FP8oqNP-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U25oCAx8Cpsj9j7FP8oqNP-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U25oCAx8Cpsj9j7FP8oqNP-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-the-equation-of-speed\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>The equation of speed<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-3acacf23-463e-490b-9840-7f5e3856d63d\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">When the brand launched the Tarmac SL8, it came with all the usual claims of being stiffer, lighter, more aero and so on, but quietly tacked on at the bottom were some calculations claiming it was 20 seconds quicker than the SL7 up the Col du Tourmalet or 128 seconds over the 294km course of Milan-San Remo. Without much context on how the brand landed on those numbers, they went largely ignored by most media and readers.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/e4FJXyiGhpDExJAC2SgYVf-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/e4FJXyiGhpDExJAC2SgYVf-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Cerv\u00e9lo S5 review &#8211; The fastest bike we&#8217;ve ever tested, but is it actually any good to ride? <\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;We did not design it to win a comparison table&#8217; &#8211; Look&#8217;s new race bike blends aero with real-world performance<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hz3k3WCbHscfQWQSYFnqk-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hz3k3WCbHscfQWQSYFnqk-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">New Specialized Crux goes all in on aero gravel, with a 15-watt improvement, new geometry, and lighter builds <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Returning to the present day, those claims are no longer tacked on quietly, but front and centre. Specialized has said it before, but this time it led its presentation with the statement: &#8220;Time to the finish is all that matters.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">With that in mind, Specialized says the SL9 is &#8220;Fourteen seconds faster [than the SL8] over the last 80km of the final stage of the 2024 Tour de France Femmes,&#8221; which conveniently is the stage in which FDJ United-Suez leader Demi Vollering lost the yellow jersey by four seconds to Kasia Niewiadoma.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I&#8217;m told that when Vollering heard the claim, she wasn&#8217;t best pleased (in a &#8216;thanks, but I wish you hadn&#8217;t told me that&#8217; sense).<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Specialized says that &#8216;Time to Finish&#8217; is a &#8220;physics-based simulation output that predicts total elapsed race time over a specific real-world course, using measured inputs from aerodynamics, weight, rolling resistance, surface roughness, environmental conditions, and rider power. \ufeffIt is not a slogan. It is not theoretical. It is the result of measured data applied to real courses.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And that all takes us to Specialized&#8217;s 10-year &#8216;Equation of Speed&#8217; journey.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">In 2016, Specialized hired Marcel Keyser from Scuderia Toro Rosso F1 team as a Senior Engineer for Race Simulation, and in the ensuing decade, he has developed a piece of software that looks at every force acting upon a cyclist, which he calls the Equation of Speed, effectively replicating software used in Formula 1 to predict lap times and guide the design of the cars.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The aforementioned sextet of inputs (aerodynamics, weight, rolling resistance, surface roughness, environmental conditions, and rider power) are also joined by other metrics such as tyre grip and rider skill.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">A neat example is that Keyser can measure a rider&#8217;s cornering speed using .FIT files, assign a cornering ability score to each rider, and then advise on their appropriate setup for an upcoming race \u2013 do they need the slower, grippier winter tyre when it&#8217;s raining, or can they handle the 80km\/h descent on the faster-rolling summer tyre?<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">With this software and by developing tests that measured each of these things in isolation, such as a test that measures the rolling resistance of tyres or the CdA of each rider on each bike, he could input known variables, and it would spit out a simulation telling him how long it would take a rider to finish a specific course.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-how-does-that-relate-to-the-tarmac-sl9\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>How does that relate to the Tarmac SL9?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-e56abe99-ecc2-4911-bd03-fd57671c5d85\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Specialized took this software, initially created to choose the optimal equipment for race day, and applied it to <em>designing<\/em> the optimal equipment for race day.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">With key races in mind, Specialized designed the Tarmac SL8, and now of course the SL9 (as well as the recently released Crux) not only to be more aerodynamic in a wind tunnel or lighter on a scale, but to be faster to the finish line on a variety of important course profiles.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">You could say that it went to a lot of trouble to land on the same end goal that most bike brands aim for: lighter, more aero, better handling. But Specialized will tell you the special sauce lies in finding the right balance with a measured, scientific approach.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I feel this points us towards the resurgence of a dedicated Specialized aero bike like the Venge. Specialized argues the Tarmac SL9 can be optimised via configuration, and for the upcoming Tour de France the riders will have three wheelset options: Rapide CLX III, Alpinist CLX III, and Rapide Sprint, which they can choose between depending on various factors.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">But why shouldn&#8217;t it also extend to frame choice? I struggle to believe that when designing a frame with specific courses in mind, one single design is optimal for Paris-Roubaix, a flat sprint stage, and the Col du Tourmalet concurrently. I shan&#8217;t hold my breath, though.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-the-differences-in-detail\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>The differences, in detail<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-4c674a18-4e78-4b0e-9271-1740c5a2401c\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I&#8217;ve used a lot of words there to explain Specialized&#8217;s thinking. Now let&#8217;s dig into what&#8217;s actually changed.<\/p>\n<h4 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-deeper-fork\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Deeper fork<\/span><\/h4>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-3e1a581c-14c4-46b0-bfa1-f89e2b6e85f0\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4W3Ur4zAwwMTZiacz22FLh-1200-80.png.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4W3Ur4zAwwMTZiacz22FLh-1024-80.png.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4W3Ur4zAwwMTZiacz22FLh-970-80.png.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4W3Ur4zAwwMTZiacz22FLh-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4W3Ur4zAwwMTZiacz22FLh-480-80.png.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4W3Ur4zAwwMTZiacz22FLh-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-7f6b9e92-03b3-4ade-8aa7-22956b8334a3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The most divisive feature of the SL8 &#8211; the protruding &#8216;Speed Sniffer&#8217; head tube &#8211; has technically not gone anywhere, but thanks to a deeper fork, which Specialized is calling the &#8216;Flow Fork&#8217;, with its further-forward leading edge, the front end of the bike looks seamless once again.<\/p>\n<h4 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-lower-down-tube\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Lower down tube<\/span><\/h4>\n<p id=\"elk-f3d0e673-86c3-43d7-97c8-46438e7dd0fc\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Behind the fork, the SL9&#8217;s down tube has also been dropped slightly to better manage the airflow coming from the fork and the front wheel.<\/p>\n<h4 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-narrower-head-tube\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Narrower head tube<\/span><\/h4>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-70090a3a-6611-46d1-9a0a-d05d95172f01\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BwruAZay37H5rAUEquLZMX-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BwruAZay37H5rAUEquLZMX-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BwruAZay37H5rAUEquLZMX-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BwruAZay37H5rAUEquLZMX-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BwruAZay37H5rAUEquLZMX-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BwruAZay37H5rAUEquLZMX-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-d36afc0f-c8bd-4666-a386-2c844afb58de\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The &#8216;Speed sniffer&#8217; head tube shape remains largely unchanged when viewed from the side, but head on it has shrunk by 4mm, bringing its frontal area down by 10 per cent. Of course, that&#8217;s just the frontal area of the head tube itself, meaning the rider&#8217;s total frontal area will be reduced by a much smaller percentage.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">This led to a few design challenges for the Specialized team, as the reduced space meant less room for the brake hose to pass through the head tube around the steerer inside. As a result, the fork&#8217;s steerer tube actually kinks to the right inside the head tube, then kinks back to the centre again at the top of the head tube. This allows the rear brake hose to sit alongside it.<\/p>\n<h4 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-curved-win-fin-seat-tube\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Curved &#8216;Win Fin&#8217; seat tube<\/span><\/h4>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-78439799-f51a-4061-a80c-116973e4b9ea\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AQAVf5q2RJhGGBM9Jk2vih-1200-80.png.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AQAVf5q2RJhGGBM9Jk2vih-1024-80.png.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AQAVf5q2RJhGGBM9Jk2vih-970-80.png.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AQAVf5q2RJhGGBM9Jk2vih-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AQAVf5q2RJhGGBM9Jk2vih-480-80.png.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AQAVf5q2RJhGGBM9Jk2vih-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-a895c4e2-566a-4321-aa8b-49439e6cf104\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It wouldn&#8217;t be a Specialized Tarmac launch without a strange descriptor of one of its design elements, and this time it&#8217;s the turn of the &#8216;Win Fin&#8217; seat tube, which curves rearward and follows the shape around the rear tyre.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Specialized says that after studying WorldTour riders during the key parts of races where breaks are formed or races are won and lost, they invariably have ejected one of their bottles and are running an empty cage. As a result, the Tarmac SL9 was designed with this in mind, and this move alone is reportedly worth 0.5 watts at 45km\/h.<\/p>\n<h4 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-narrower-seat-post\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Narrower seat post<\/span><\/h4>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-4f3ae553-d534-441e-8b5c-2018edfa661c\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/god6H9XeBTTPpbuEtEYL9h-1200-80.png.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/god6H9XeBTTPpbuEtEYL9h-1024-80.png.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/god6H9XeBTTPpbuEtEYL9h-970-80.png.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/god6H9XeBTTPpbuEtEYL9h-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/god6H9XeBTTPpbuEtEYL9h-480-80.png.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/god6H9XeBTTPpbuEtEYL9h-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-5490d46e-b811-4cd0-8e79-2adb8ff9f0e1\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">North of the Win Fin is a new S-Works Rapide seatpost, which, incidentally, can also fit into the new Crux, and is narrower at the top half. This is essentially to remove material in an area where airflow is accelerated as it travels between a rider&#8217;s legs.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-spec-changes\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Spec changes<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-5369e0d4-5962-4e64-991a-223b89893df1\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Since my review of the Tarmac SL7, I have bemoaned Specialized&#8217;s reluctance to embrace narrower handlebars, but there is at last some movement and improvement in this regard.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Previously, a 58cm bike would be shipped with 44cm bars, and the solution last time was to simply send cockpits in their own retail packaging so that shops could more easily swap them out when a customer wanted.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">This time round, a 58cm bike will shipped with 42cm bars, but what&#8217;s even better than that is that the measurement at the base of the hoods is now 36cm thanks to the flare of the Rapide cockpit. That&#8217;s much narrower than they would have been on Tarmacs of old, where a 42cm outside-to-outside bar would still be around 40cm at the hoods.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">In addition, all bikes now come with shorter cranks, to the tune of 2.5mm shorter across the board.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Bikes still ship with the 15mm offset seatpost, so those looking for the &#8216;modern&#8217; aero position with an effective steep seat tube, short cranks and narrow bars will probably be looking to swap this out, which is possible but not without the support of an amicable bike shop.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">But I can see why Specialized didn&#8217;t flip the well-loved geometry of its flagship bike on its head to appease a growing-yet-still-small subsection of the market. Maybe that&#8217;s where the Venge fits in.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The other change I really appreciate is that the S-Works Tarmac now ships with 30mm Turbo Cotton Tubeless tyres. This is at odds with most brands who have ballooned their tyre clearance to 32 or 34mm, yet still send bikes out with 28 or even 25mm tyres.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-e427356e-a918-41ab-9f32-627ab3e72279\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KihU2bKdrN2B5PC5tSEpCW-1200-80.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KihU2bKdrN2B5PC5tSEpCW-1024-80.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KihU2bKdrN2B5PC5tSEpCW-970-80.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KihU2bKdrN2B5PC5tSEpCW-650-80.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KihU2bKdrN2B5PC5tSEpCW-480-80.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KihU2bKdrN2B5PC5tSEpCW-320-80.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Using a mannequin hung from a giant metallic frame, the mannequin position can be controlled to millimetre precision and isn&#8217;t reliant on a bike&#8217;s stiffness for support, meaning it can also be used on 3D-printed prototypes. <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-tarmac-sl9-vs-cervelo-s5-colnago-y1rs-and-factor-one\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Tarmac SL9 vs Cervelo S5, Colnago Y1Rs and Factor ONE<\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-32a85c43-ea95-4c7d-9f76-0788f054b4aa\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It&#8217;s becoming incredibly common for new bikes to launch with claims of being &#8216;better&#8217; \u2013 in some metric, but often aerodynamics \u2013 than a named competitor. And almost ubiquitously, one of those named competitors is the S-Works Tarmac.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It could be seen as a compliment, but Specialized has become a little fed up with it and has decided to reciprocate the honour with a comparison of its own.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It has benchmarked the Tarmac SL9 against the Cerv\u00e9lo S5, the Colnago Y1Rs and the Factor One. Given the Remco Evenepoel connection, it&#8217;s not a surprise to see the Cerv\u00e9lo and Colnago (ridden by Jonas Vingegaard and Tadej Poga\u010dar respectively) in there, but the Factor One is an interesting addition that evidences Factor&#8217;s rise to relevance over the past few years; no doubt aided by its unconventional design too.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">These comparisons don&#8217;t simply quote a single metric such as CdA, they input the CdA and weight into the Equation of Speed simulation to quantify the speed differences over a variety of courses.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Using bikes set up as follows:<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-table-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-YFmP8556Yk0P6T9x8QyzP2Emnu78kzgU\" class=\"slice-container table-wrapper table-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-YFmP8556Yk0P6T9x8QyzP2Emnu78kzgU slice-container-table\">\n<div class=\"table__instruction\">Swipe to scroll horizontally<\/div>\n<div class=\"table__container\">\n<table class=\"table__wrapper table__wrapper--inbodyContent table__wrapper--sticky table__wrapper--divider\">\n<tbody class=\"table__body\">\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Component<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Tarmac SL9<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Tarmac SL8<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Colango Y1RS<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Cervelo S5<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Factor ONE<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Wheels<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Roval Sprint CLX<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Roval Sprint CLX<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Enve 4.5 Pro<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Reserve 57\/64<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Black Inc. 64<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Groupset<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Red E1<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Red E1<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Red E1<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Red E1<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Red E1<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Cockpit size<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>110 \u00d7 380<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>110 \u00d7 380<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>105 \u00d7 377<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>100 \u00d7 380<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>110 \u00d7 380<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Tyres<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Cotton TLR 30<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Cotton TLR 30<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Continental Archetype 30<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Vittoria Corsa Pro 29<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Goodyear Eagle F1 30<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-c73580b1-5366-4e08-bad8-688a5ba56490\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Specialized measured each bike as follows:<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-table-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-tbYZLt8dMXf2H7CR1AytKLWGTKH4KndN\" class=\"slice-container table-wrapper table-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-tbYZLt8dMXf2H7CR1AytKLWGTKH4KndN slice-container-table\">\n<div class=\"table__instruction\">Swipe to scroll horizontally<\/div>\n<div class=\"table__container\">\n<table class=\"table__wrapper table__wrapper--inbodyContent table__wrapper--sticky table__wrapper--divider\">\n<tbody class=\"table__body\">\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\"><span class=\"sr-only\">Row 0 &#8211; Cell 0 <\/span><\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Tarmac SL9<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Tarmac SL8<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Colango Y1RS<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Cervelo S5<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Factor ONE<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Weight (kg)<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>6.8<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>6.89<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>7.49<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>7.44<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>7.99<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Weighted CdA (m\u00b2)<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>0.2227<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>0.2251<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>0.2227<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>0.2215<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>0.2231<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-7d69ce0b-82c6-4d9c-b56a-933484e3d915\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Note that the delta between Tarmac SL8 and the competitors is different to what we found in our own wind tunnel tests, but within the error margin of our tests (using a real rider).<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Our tests were performed at a slower speed (40km\/h vs 45km\/h), and the different yaw angles were weighted differently. Specialized says weighting more favourably towards zero yaw offers better real-world relevance for cyclists. Existing accepted methods \u2013 including ours \u2013 are based on the automotive standard of environmental wind speed, measured at 3m above the ground. Specialized&#8217;s data argues that measurements at 1m above ground &#8211; as experienced by a cyclist &#8211; see a lower wind speed, thus increasing the likelihood of experiencing lower yaw as the rider&#8217;s own forward momentum is what creates the wind.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I&#8217;ll save the full breakdown, but over three laps of a relatively flat 2026 Montreal Worlds course, the differences are as follows:<\/p>\n<ul id=\"elk-7000219c-f3fb-4baf-b708-a296f6eff7f5\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">\n<li>SL9 Time to Finish: &#8217;00:19:17.100&#8242;<\/li>\n<li>SL8: +3.7<\/li>\n<li>Cervelo S5: +0.5<\/li>\n<li>Colnago Y1RS: +1.9<\/li>\n<li>Factor ONE: +2.1<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"elk-92dedad0-cbef-40f8-be2b-66241997062b\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And in a single ascent of Alpe D&#8217;Huez, the differences are as follows:<\/p>\n<ul id=\"elk-94899978-6d7c-418c-9418-073fe6797261\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">\n<li>SL9 Time to Finish: \u201800:38:18.000&#8242;<\/li>\n<li>SL8: +5.5<\/li>\n<li>Cervelo S5: +16.4<\/li>\n<li>Colnago Y1RS: +18.2<\/li>\n<li>Factor ONE: +30.9<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-0b1235e5-9cec-4437-bb22-af497397f03a\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VhxEZ5RfzhtW8f7ouTsa2X-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VhxEZ5RfzhtW8f7ouTsa2X-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VhxEZ5RfzhtW8f7ouTsa2X-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VhxEZ5RfzhtW8f7ouTsa2X-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VhxEZ5RfzhtW8f7ouTsa2X-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VhxEZ5RfzhtW8f7ouTsa2X-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Not many photos exist of me with the new bike yet, so here&#8217;s one from my bike fit. <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-early-review\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Early review<\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-0e0dc0b8-182b-4fa3-b0be-057dd294fe3f\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">At the time of publishing, I still want to put more miles through the Tarmac SL9 (and put it in a wind tunnel) before I write a full review, but having ridden the SL6, SL7, SL8 and SL9, (as well as the Venge Vias, Venge, Roubaix, Allez, old and new Aethos and probably a few I&#8217;ve forgotten over the years), I can confidently say the SL9 retains the well-loved Tarmac handling and ride feel.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">That&#8217;s not to say it&#8217;s exactly the same though.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Firstly, an important caveat. I am now a proud father, and two things have happened since January when our son was born.<\/p>\n<ol start=\"1\" id=\"elk-6f956aa0-b76f-4ee3-a6dd-b14a5be16920\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">\n<li>I&#8217;ve not ridden as much as I normally would, so my fitness has tanked.<\/li>\n<li>My willingness to rail around corners has reduced as my sense of mortality has increased.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p id=\"elk-69b61485-a7a5-4c99-a31b-55cb95dd85b7\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The reason I mention this is that the perceived performance of a bike is quite correlated to my ability to ride it. It&#8217;s the &#8220;all bikes feel slow at altitude&#8221; dilemma, but framed differently.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Take 40 watts off my FTP, and bikes won&#8217;t feel as sprightly uphill, because my reference point of the SL8 is on legs I had two years ago. Nor will a bike feel as telepathic on descents. I&#8217;m comparing today&#8217;s apples against last year&#8217;s oranges.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Therefore, despite jumping onto the Tarmac SL8 in 2023 and immediately feeling like I could throw it into hairpins, that took around 4-5 hours of riding this time round, and only came on a fast descent of Coe, a spicy climb north of Morgan Hill. I was following a group of Specialized employees and locals that knew the roads inside out. Hanging off the back of the group to follow their lines helped me to judge the otherwise never-before-seen corners and let the bike shine.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And shine it did. It was stable, predictable and planted when you wanted it to hold a line around wider corners, but agile on the tighter corners and easy to accelerate back to speed on the other side of them. The SRAM Red brakes were reliable as ever for late braking into tight hairpins, and the wide tyres added a level of composure that really helped on rough and gritty roads I&#8217;d never ridden before.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The flare of the handlebars meant leverage wasn&#8217;t lost when you wanted it for those tiny steering inputs on fast descents, but the narrower spacing between the hoods was perfect for getting small in the slipstream when the roads straightened up or levelled off. It really was a fun experience that, without getting too sentimental, was one of those that reminds you why you love riding bikes so much.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">One thing that&#8217;s not affected by my fitness, however, is the comfort and ride feel, and the balanced quality that has long shone through in previous generation S-Works Tarmacs remains abundant here. It&#8217;s a lovely blend of snappy and punchy responsiveness under power, but smooth, stable and refined the rest of the time.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-price-and-availability\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Price and availability<\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-2df34699-0eb4-4b9a-8116-ced6fb7991e8\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">For now, as mentioned, Specialized is only launching the S-Works model Tarmac SL9.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">When the lower-spec models will come is to be confirmed, but that at least simplifies your options if you want to buy one this side of the Tour de France.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-table-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-RWCIIBneHlMShSLAM6rxiYEOIZ9bY8nB\" class=\"slice-container table-wrapper table-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-RWCIIBneHlMShSLAM6rxiYEOIZ9bY8nB slice-container-table\">\n<div class=\"table__instruction\">Swipe to scroll horizontally<\/div>\n<div class=\"table__container\">\n<table class=\"table__wrapper table__wrapper--inbodyContent table__wrapper--sticky table__wrapper--divider\">\n<tbody class=\"table__body\">\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>S-Works Tarmac SL9 AXS<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>$14,000<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>\u20ac13,999<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>\u00a311,999<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>$21,500<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>S-Works Tarmac SL9 Di2<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>$13,500<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>\u20ac13,999<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>\u00a311,999<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>$20,500<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>S-Works Framesets (incl. Team Replica colours)<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>$6,000<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>\u20ac5,999<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>\u00a35,499<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>$9,500<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-team-edition-colourways\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Team edition colourways<\/span><\/h2>\n<div id=\"slice-container-imageGallery-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-jIlimzXY9suHbB4f5esGAxXmPpsQ3vpc\" class=\"slice-container imageGallery-wrapper imageGallery-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-jIlimzXY9suHbB4f5esGAxXmPpsQ3vpc slice-container-imageGallery\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"inline-gallery first-slide-only\">\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__count\">Image 1 of 4<\/div>\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__items\">\n<div class=\"react-swipeable-view-container\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"false\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">SD Worx-Protime<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">FDJ United-Suez<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">Soudal-QuickStep<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block mb-5\" id=\"articleTag\" data-component-name=\"PostArticleLinks\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"post-article-links\">\n<div class=\"border-b border-b-black border-solid py-2.5 text-black font-bold uppercase\">TOPICS<\/div>\n<nav class=\"py-2.5 flex gap-2.5 flex-wrap\" data-analytics-id=\"article-tag\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-tag\">\n<p>Tech<\/p>\n<p>Road<\/p>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A slice-container-authorBio\">\n<div class=\"author author__default-layout author--separator author--collapsible\" data-hydrate=\"true\">\n<div class=\"author__header\">\n<div class=\"author__avatar-block\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"author__avatar image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/V3GXEP85KSp9eSMY5JsYqd-140-80.jpg.webp 140w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/V3GXEP85KSp9eSMY5JsYqd.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/V3GXEP85KSp9eSMY5JsYqd.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/V3GXEP85KSp9eSMY5JsYqd.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">Josh Croxton<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__social\">\n<nav class=\"button-social-group author__social-buttons\" aria-labelledby=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">\n<div id=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">Social Links Navigation<\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__role\">Associate Editor (Tech)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>Josh is Associate Editor of Cyclingnews \u2013 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&#8217;s covered everything from buyer&#8217;s guides and deals to the latest tech news and reviews. <\/p>\n<p>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, &#8216;cross and cross-country bikes, the latter usually with his two dogs in tow.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"relative max-w-[1070px] viafoura-twig-component mt-6 mx-4 lg:mx-0\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class=&apos;vfcustom-community-guidelines&apos;&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1 rounded-b-[var(--comment-widget-border-radius,0)]\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-lg!\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-sm!\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"mx-2 my-5 sm:mx-0\">\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-adviser:hybrid\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Read more<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CDs7SbZyWquz28KBAwjhFa-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CDs7SbZyWquz28KBAwjhFa-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CDs7SbZyWquz28KBAwjhFa-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CDs7SbZyWquz28KBAwjhFa-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CDs7SbZyWquz28KBAwjhFa-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Road Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">I hid in a bush to get the first spy shots of the new Specialized Tarmac SL9 at the newly-named Dauphin\u00e9<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Htfrknfjz3RdDHZzWcNArB-406-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Htfrknfjz3RdDHZzWcNArB-406-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Htfrknfjz3RdDHZzWcNArB-406-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Htfrknfjz3RdDHZzWcNArB-406-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Htfrknfjz3RdDHZzWcNArB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Cycling Tech &amp; Components<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Is this the new Tarmac SL9? Mystery Specialized bike spotted at team training camp<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWwHj83UjoSJJKJ7XA6maZ-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWwHj83UjoSJJKJ7XA6maZ-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWwHj83UjoSJJKJ7XA6maZ-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWwHj83UjoSJJKJ7XA6maZ-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWwHj83UjoSJJKJ7XA6maZ-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Gravel Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Specialized promises its new Crux gravel bike is aero and lightweight, so we checked for ourselves in the wind tunnel \u2013 Can you have your cake and eat it?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/e4FJXyiGhpDExJAC2SgYVf-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/e4FJXyiGhpDExJAC2SgYVf-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/e4FJXyiGhpDExJAC2SgYVf-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/e4FJXyiGhpDExJAC2SgYVf-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/e4FJXyiGhpDExJAC2SgYVf-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Road Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Cerv\u00e9lo S5 review &#8211; The fastest bike we&#8217;ve ever tested, but is it actually any good to ride? <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Road Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;We did not design it to win a comparison table&#8217; &#8211; Look&#8217;s new race bike blends aero with real-world performance<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hz3k3WCbHscfQWQSYFnqk-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hz3k3WCbHscfQWQSYFnqk-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hz3k3WCbHscfQWQSYFnqk-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hz3k3WCbHscfQWQSYFnqk-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hz3k3WCbHscfQWQSYFnqk-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Gravel Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">New Specialized Crux goes all in on aero gravel, with a 15-watt improvement, new geometry, and lighter builds <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-category\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Bikes<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UTeZtJbsZQWRHW3jeBTuTk-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UTeZtJbsZQWRHW3jeBTuTk-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UTeZtJbsZQWRHW3jeBTuTk-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UTeZtJbsZQWRHW3jeBTuTk-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UTeZtJbsZQWRHW3jeBTuTk-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Eurobike 2026: Five new bikes that caught my eye<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Road Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;We did not design it to win a comparison table&#8217; &#8211; Look&#8217;s new race bike blends aero with real-world performance<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vUrytX6acKkkZhFgBLDNR7-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vUrytX6acKkkZhFgBLDNR7-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vUrytX6acKkkZhFgBLDNR7-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vUrytX6acKkkZhFgBLDNR7-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vUrytX6acKkkZhFgBLDNR7-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Pro Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Stage 2 of Tour of Slovenia neutralised for nearly 30 minutes due to crash<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3ndLDPHRkbMTkNnpt4Hqa6-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3ndLDPHRkbMTkNnpt4Hqa6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3ndLDPHRkbMTkNnpt4Hqa6-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3ndLDPHRkbMTkNnpt4Hqa6-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3ndLDPHRkbMTkNnpt4Hqa6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Pro Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Tadej Poga\u010dar&#8217;s new time trial bike is officially here \u2013 All the details on the half-kilo lighter Colnago TT2<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YRuAguMtbULNhm4XLaqmuJ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YRuAguMtbULNhm4XLaqmuJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YRuAguMtbULNhm4XLaqmuJ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YRuAguMtbULNhm4XLaqmuJ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YRuAguMtbULNhm4XLaqmuJ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Canyon says its tech-filled bike and helmet prototypes can predict the future<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E6p5SNuJdgRMn97S8MW2ci-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E6p5SNuJdgRMn97S8MW2ci-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E6p5SNuJdgRMn97S8MW2ci-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E6p5SNuJdgRMn97S8MW2ci-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E6p5SNuJdgRMn97S8MW2ci-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Road Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Seka Spear review: Incredible specs and dialled geometry, but a disappointment in one vital area<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-articletype\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Features<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zantGmAoguwfRAJctuWQFa-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zantGmAoguwfRAJctuWQFa-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zantGmAoguwfRAJctuWQFa-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zantGmAoguwfRAJctuWQFa-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zantGmAoguwfRAJctuWQFa-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Club des Cinq: How Anquetil, Merckx, Hinault and Indurain won their fifth Tour de France, and the history that Tadej Poga\u010dar seeks to emulate<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MrTDCTCzjt7SqaA6aiM33B-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MrTDCTCzjt7SqaA6aiM33B-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MrTDCTCzjt7SqaA6aiM33B-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MrTDCTCzjt7SqaA6aiM33B-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MrTDCTCzjt7SqaA6aiM33B-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Cycling Tech &amp; Components<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Eurobike Tech Gallery: Unreleased gravel machines, crazy aero builds and futuristic concept bikes<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ETHSCvhJmsvysUpX3yZeYJ-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ETHSCvhJmsvysUpX3yZeYJ-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ETHSCvhJmsvysUpX3yZeYJ-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ETHSCvhJmsvysUpX3yZeYJ-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ETHSCvhJmsvysUpX3yZeYJ-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Write off Jonas Vingegaard at your peril, but there is one thing that could let him down at this Tour de France<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k47gPEqWS7qGhFA58fFsJW-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k47gPEqWS7qGhFA58fFsJW-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k47gPEqWS7qGhFA58fFsJW-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k47gPEqWS7qGhFA58fFsJW-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k47gPEqWS7qGhFA58fFsJW-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">With Oscar Onley out, what can Netcompany Ineos hope to achieve in this Tour de France \u2013 and in future ones?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/s2mu99cSc9cQb8sSAxSoJR-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/s2mu99cSc9cQb8sSAxSoJR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/s2mu99cSc9cQb8sSAxSoJR-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/s2mu99cSc9cQb8sSAxSoJR-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/s2mu99cSc9cQb8sSAxSoJR-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Tadej keeps on surprising us&#8217; \u2013 The inside view on how UAE Team Emirates-XRG have constructed Tadej Poga\u010dar&#8217;s assault on a fifth Tour de France<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Safety<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">The High Temperature Protocol, switching dates, racing in the morning \u2013 What could the future of the Tour de France look like as summer temperatures continue to rise?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"widgetArea17\" class=\"widget-area md:basis-1\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-1-3 page-widget-area-17\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"dynamic\" id=\"popular-data\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-dynamic widget-popular-data widget-dynamic-popular-data widget-dynamic-fter-popular-box\">\n<div class=\"wdn-fte-pb pos-relative space-t20\n\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-popularBox\" class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice popularBox slice-container-popularBox\">\n<section data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"popular-box\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">LATEST ARTICLES<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ol class=\"popular-box__articles-list popular-box__articles-list--active\">\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__image-wrapper\">\n<div><source class=\"popular-box__article-list__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sCJMNDvRKKpfRDLfG8eLdU-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sCJMNDvRKKpfRDLfG8eLdU-640-80.jpg.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sCJMNDvRKKpfRDLfG8eLdU-720-80.jpg.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sCJMNDvRKKpfRDLfG8eLdU-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sCJMNDvRKKpfRDLfG8eLdU.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sCJMNDvRKKpfRDLfG8eLdU.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sCJMNDvRKKpfRDLfG8eLdU.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">1<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">American Criterium Cup: New Zealand riders sweep elite races at Downer Classic in Wisconsin and hold off series leaders in tight sprints<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">2<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Giant overhauls gravel range with two new bikes and a suite of gravel components<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">3<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Sprinter Tim Merlier spearheads Soudal-QuickStep&#8217;s first assault on Tour de France in post-Remco Evenepoel era<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">4<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Save up to $372.60 on a NordVPN subscription \u2013 Lock down your Tour de France viewing from anywhere this summer<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">5<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Is heat training playing with fire? There are hidden risks, but here&#8217;s how to do it safely<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"page-content-onecol flex-1\nnews-article article\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"widget-area-group widget-area-group-2col flex flex-wrap box-border\">\n<div id=\"widgetArea16\" class=\"widget-area basis-full md:basis-2\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-2-3 page-widget-area-16\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"hero\" id=\"hero\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-hero widget-hero widget-hero-hero widget-hero widget-hero-fter-news\">\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nBikes\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>Win Fin, Flow Fork, Speed Sniffer: Specialized launches &#8216;fastest road bike ever made&#8217; in the S-Works Tarmac SL9<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"byline font-ui-heading text-[12px]\">\nFeatures<\/p>\n<div><span><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nJosh Croxton <\/span><span><br \/>\npublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-06-30T13:14:07Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n30 June 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">American brand draws on Formula 1 lap times software to quantify performance beyond just aero and weight<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"text-gray-700 mx-auto mb-4 flex items-center justify-start mx-0 my-5 p-0\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-[var(--affiliate-disclaimer--text-color,inherit))] mb-2 text-[length:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--font-size,0.75rem)] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-inherit [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"content\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-content widget-contentparsed-content widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-content_document \">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<section class=\"content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"box less-space hero-image-wrapper\">\n<figure class=\"mb-0\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-1920-80.png.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-1600-80.png.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-1200-80.png.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-1024-80.png.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-970-80.png.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-750-80.png.webp 750w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-480-80.png.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 600px, 100vw\" \/><figcaption class=\"font-article-copy text-(--image--text--color) font-article-copy mt-2\"><span class=\"credit font-article-copy\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo\" class=\"contents\" data-only-inline=\"1\">\n<div class=\"visible flex flex-row flex-nowrap sticky max-lg:-ml-5 top-[var(--site-header-height,60px)] sm:top-0 z-[9994] w-screen lg:w-full h-[50px] bg-white p-0 mb-5 border-neutral-200 border border-solid\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Variants:Inline\" data-analytics-id=\"sticky-nav\" id=\"sticky-nav--inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"sticky-nav\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-row w-full h-full overflow-x-scroll overflow-y-hidden tracking-normal overscroll-x-contain\" id=\"sticky-nav__scroll-container\"><span class=\"pl-4 my-auto text-base font-semibold font-article-heading lg:pl-3 lg:text-sm whitespace-nowrap uppercase\">Jump To:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-row w-auto border-y-0\">\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\nborder-b-[3px] border-b-(--jumpto-underline-color) border-solid font-semibold \" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>What&#8217;s new<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>The equation of speed<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>How does that relate to the Tarmac SL9?<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>The differences, in detail<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Deeper fork<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Lower down tube<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Narrower head tube<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Curved seat tube<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Narrower seat post<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Spec changes<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Tarmac SL9 vs Cervelo S5, Colnago Y1Rs and Factor ONE<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Early review<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Price and availability<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Team colours<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"font-ui-heading flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Social:Dropdown\" role=\"menu\" id=\"utilitybar__dropdown--share\" aria-labelledby=\"utilitybar__button--share\" class=\"absolute left-0 top-full w-44 bg-white rounded-md shadow-md border border-neutral-200 z-[9996] list-none m-0 py-2 px-3 border-solid\">\n<ul class=\"m-0!\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Facebook<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>X<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Pinterest<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Email<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-share-this-article\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nShare this article\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\"><span class=\"ml-1 inline-flex h-5 px-2 shrink-0 items-center justify-center self-center overflow-hidden whitespace-nowrap rounded-[10px] bg-primary-500 text-[11px] leading-none font-ui-heading font-semibold text-white\">4<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-join-the-conversation\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nJoin the conversation\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>Follow us<\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nAdd us as a preferred source on Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-bd617b88-3389-4661-88ce-62b736b0271a\">Today is the day many Specialized road bike fans will have been waiting for; the launch of the American brand&#8217;s latest flagship race bike.<\/p>\n<p>But no, it&#8217;s not a Venge as many predicted. It follows in its many predecessors&#8217; footsteps (tyre prints?) and is called the Tarmac SL9.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-bd617b88-3389-4661-88ce-62b736b0271a-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Its launch has been a typically turbulent Tarmac launch. It started, as it often does, with an early digital imagery leak courtesy of a farflung retailer and the WeightWeenies forum. It was then followed by social media leaks courtesy of Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe&#8217;s in-team photographer (who no doubt got a slap on the wrist before he duly deleted his post).<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-6 w-full overflow-hidden rounded-[10px] lg:my-8\" data-component-name=\"JwPlayer:Carousel\" data-jwp-carousel data-jwp-carousel-payload=\"{&quot;ids&quot;:{&quot;playerID&quot;:&quot;jYDCcabO&quot;,&quot;searchPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;divID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;fallbackPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;fallbackDivID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;key&quot;:&quot;X9\/mXVGac0NphghLH9hZaqWA5d3dhAM\/Ih07grnEyMLjuO2E&quot;,&quot;tintLogo&quot;:true,&quot;useSearchPlaylist&quot;:false,&quot;enabled&quot;:true},&quot;signPostingEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;signPostingLinkEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;waitForAdLoad&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnDesktop&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnMobile&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnTablet&quot;:false}\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-nowrap items-center justify-between gap-3 bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-header>\n<div class=\"flex min-w-0 shrink items-center\"><span class=\"inline-flex items-center gap-1.5 text-sm font-article-heading capitalize leading-5 text-white whitespace-nowrap\"><span class=\"jwp-carousel-title-desktop\">Latest Videos From<\/span><span class=\"jwp-carousel-brand inline-flex items-center\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] block h-[18px] w-auto shrink-0 brightness-0 invert\"><\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"aspect-video w-full min-h-[200px] lg:min-h-[330px] relative overflow-hidden bg-black\" data-jwp-carousel-container>\n<div class=\"absolute inset-0 size-full items-center justify-center bg-white\" data-jwp-carousel-fallback><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] max-h-12 w-auto\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"min-h-[44px] bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting><a class=\"invisible block truncate text-sm font-bold leading-5 text-white underline decoration-solid underline-offset-2\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting-link href target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-jwp-carousel-signposting-title>Watch full video here: <\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And it was then followed up by Dauphine spy photos courtesy of our very own Will Jones, who had to go full Daily Mail paparazzi and hide in a bush to get them, and was subsequently threatened on social media by a Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe mechanic. Fun.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-what-s-new\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>What&#8217;s new<\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-35729e12-aa4b-4ad8-85d2-d99eb0ba0bd5\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">At first glance, and second, the SL9 looks very similar to the SL8, but having been up close with one \u2013 I have one next to me right now as I type this \u2013 it&#8217;s fair to say a lot of work has gone into the bike that will probably go unnoticed.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CDs7SbZyWquz28KBAwjhFa-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CDs7SbZyWquz28KBAwjhFa-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">I hid in a bush to get the first spy shots of the new Specialized Tarmac SL9 at the newly-named Dauphin\u00e9<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Htfrknfjz3RdDHZzWcNArB-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Htfrknfjz3RdDHZzWcNArB-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Is this the new Tarmac SL9? Mystery Specialized bike spotted at team training camp<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWwHj83UjoSJJKJ7XA6maZ-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWwHj83UjoSJJKJ7XA6maZ-150-80.png.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Specialized promises its new Crux gravel bike is aero and lightweight, so we checked for ourselves in the wind tunnel \u2013 Can you have your cake and eat it?<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">In fact, every single tube has been reshaped in some way. The ones that stand out the most, however, are:<\/p>\n<ul id=\"elk-d69690c3-28b2-4895-b1b6-600ed4e1520d\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">\n<li>The seat tube now curves rearward to follow the shape of the tyre.<\/li>\n<li>The fork legs are now deeper and thus hide the deep &#8216;speed sniffer&#8217; head tube.<\/li>\n<li>The seatpost has a narrowed section for extra aero <em>gainz <\/em>between the rider&#8217;s legs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"elk-5b2effd8-13cc-429f-9352-c8f1584b724e\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">In brief, that leads to a bike that is four watts more aero than its predecessor. The claimed frame weight is two grams heavier at 687g (size 56cm in Raw Carbon \/ Gloss Amethyst Frost finish), but full builds now start at 6.5kg thanks to lighter-weight components.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Tyre clearance remains at 32mm, but the specced option has bumped up to 30mm.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">For today, the only version being revealed is the S-Works model. It&#8217;s safe to say that more budget-friendly models will follow in due course, but today is all about the flagship product and as we gear up for the Tour de France, the team replica framesets too.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-baa70563-54ae-48a8-8d55-6c850de8d4a7\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U25oCAx8Cpsj9j7FP8oqNP-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U25oCAx8Cpsj9j7FP8oqNP-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U25oCAx8Cpsj9j7FP8oqNP-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U25oCAx8Cpsj9j7FP8oqNP-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U25oCAx8Cpsj9j7FP8oqNP-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U25oCAx8Cpsj9j7FP8oqNP-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-the-equation-of-speed\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>The equation of speed<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-3acacf23-463e-490b-9840-7f5e3856d63d\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">When the brand launched the Tarmac SL8, it came with all the usual claims of being stiffer, lighter, more aero and so on, but quietly tacked on at the bottom were some calculations claiming it was 20 seconds quicker than the SL7 up the Col du Tourmalet or 128 seconds over the 294km course of Milan-San Remo. Without much context on how the brand landed on those numbers, they went largely ignored by most media and readers.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/e4FJXyiGhpDExJAC2SgYVf-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/e4FJXyiGhpDExJAC2SgYVf-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Cerv\u00e9lo S5 review &#8211; The fastest bike we&#8217;ve ever tested, but is it actually any good to ride? <\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;We did not design it to win a comparison table&#8217; &#8211; Look&#8217;s new race bike blends aero with real-world performance<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hz3k3WCbHscfQWQSYFnqk-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hz3k3WCbHscfQWQSYFnqk-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">New Specialized Crux goes all in on aero gravel, with a 15-watt improvement, new geometry, and lighter builds <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Returning to the present day, those claims are no longer tacked on quietly, but front and centre. Specialized has said it before, but this time it led its presentation with the statement: &#8220;Time to the finish is all that matters.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">With that in mind, Specialized says the SL9 is &#8220;Fourteen seconds faster [than the SL8] over the last 80km of the final stage of the 2024 Tour de France Femmes,&#8221; which conveniently is the stage in which FDJ United-Suez leader Demi Vollering lost the yellow jersey by four seconds to Kasia Niewiadoma.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I&#8217;m told that when Vollering heard the claim, she wasn&#8217;t best pleased (in a &#8216;thanks, but I wish you hadn&#8217;t told me that&#8217; sense).<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Specialized says that &#8216;Time to Finish&#8217; is a &#8220;physics-based simulation output that predicts total elapsed race time over a specific real-world course, using measured inputs from aerodynamics, weight, rolling resistance, surface roughness, environmental conditions, and rider power. \ufeffIt is not a slogan. It is not theoretical. It is the result of measured data applied to real courses.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And that all takes us to Specialized&#8217;s 10-year &#8216;Equation of Speed&#8217; journey.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">In 2016, Specialized hired Marcel Keyser from Scuderia Toro Rosso F1 team as a Senior Engineer for Race Simulation, and in the ensuing decade, he has developed a piece of software that looks at every force acting upon a cyclist, which he calls the Equation of Speed, effectively replicating software used in Formula 1 to predict lap times and guide the design of the cars.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The aforementioned sextet of inputs (aerodynamics, weight, rolling resistance, surface roughness, environmental conditions, and rider power) are also joined by other metrics such as tyre grip and rider skill.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">A neat example is that Keyser can measure a rider&#8217;s cornering speed using .FIT files, assign a cornering ability score to each rider, and then advise on their appropriate setup for an upcoming race \u2013 do they need the slower, grippier winter tyre when it&#8217;s raining, or can they handle the 80km\/h descent on the faster-rolling summer tyre?<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">With this software and by developing tests that measured each of these things in isolation, such as a test that measures the rolling resistance of tyres or the CdA of each rider on each bike, he could input known variables, and it would spit out a simulation telling him how long it would take a rider to finish a specific course.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-how-does-that-relate-to-the-tarmac-sl9\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>How does that relate to the Tarmac SL9?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-e56abe99-ecc2-4911-bd03-fd57671c5d85\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Specialized took this software, initially created to choose the optimal equipment for race day, and applied it to <em>designing<\/em> the optimal equipment for race day.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">With key races in mind, Specialized designed the Tarmac SL8, and now of course the SL9 (as well as the recently released Crux) not only to be more aerodynamic in a wind tunnel or lighter on a scale, but to be faster to the finish line on a variety of important course profiles.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">You could say that it went to a lot of trouble to land on the same end goal that most bike brands aim for: lighter, more aero, better handling. But Specialized will tell you the special sauce lies in finding the right balance with a measured, scientific approach.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I feel this points us towards the resurgence of a dedicated Specialized aero bike like the Venge. Specialized argues the Tarmac SL9 can be optimised via configuration, and for the upcoming Tour de France the riders will have three wheelset options: Rapide CLX III, Alpinist CLX III, and Rapide Sprint, which they can choose between depending on various factors.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">But why shouldn&#8217;t it also extend to frame choice? I struggle to believe that when designing a frame with specific courses in mind, one single design is optimal for Paris-Roubaix, a flat sprint stage, and the Col du Tourmalet concurrently. I shan&#8217;t hold my breath, though.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-the-differences-in-detail\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>The differences, in detail<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-4c674a18-4e78-4b0e-9271-1740c5a2401c\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I&#8217;ve used a lot of words there to explain Specialized&#8217;s thinking. Now let&#8217;s dig into what&#8217;s actually changed.<\/p>\n<h4 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-deeper-fork\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Deeper fork<\/span><\/h4>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-3e1a581c-14c4-46b0-bfa1-f89e2b6e85f0\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4W3Ur4zAwwMTZiacz22FLh-1200-80.png.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4W3Ur4zAwwMTZiacz22FLh-1024-80.png.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4W3Ur4zAwwMTZiacz22FLh-970-80.png.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4W3Ur4zAwwMTZiacz22FLh-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4W3Ur4zAwwMTZiacz22FLh-480-80.png.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4W3Ur4zAwwMTZiacz22FLh-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-7f6b9e92-03b3-4ade-8aa7-22956b8334a3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The most divisive feature of the SL8 &#8211; the protruding &#8216;Speed Sniffer&#8217; head tube &#8211; has technically not gone anywhere, but thanks to a deeper fork, which Specialized is calling the &#8216;Flow Fork&#8217;, with its further-forward leading edge, the front end of the bike looks seamless once again.<\/p>\n<h4 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-lower-down-tube\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Lower down tube<\/span><\/h4>\n<p id=\"elk-f3d0e673-86c3-43d7-97c8-46438e7dd0fc\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Behind the fork, the SL9&#8217;s down tube has also been dropped slightly to better manage the airflow coming from the fork and the front wheel.<\/p>\n<h4 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-narrower-head-tube\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Narrower head tube<\/span><\/h4>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-70090a3a-6611-46d1-9a0a-d05d95172f01\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BwruAZay37H5rAUEquLZMX-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BwruAZay37H5rAUEquLZMX-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BwruAZay37H5rAUEquLZMX-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BwruAZay37H5rAUEquLZMX-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BwruAZay37H5rAUEquLZMX-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BwruAZay37H5rAUEquLZMX-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-d36afc0f-c8bd-4666-a386-2c844afb58de\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The &#8216;Speed sniffer&#8217; head tube shape remains largely unchanged when viewed from the side, but head on it has shrunk by 4mm, bringing its frontal area down by 10 per cent. Of course, that&#8217;s just the frontal area of the head tube itself, meaning the rider&#8217;s total frontal area will be reduced by a much smaller percentage.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">This led to a few design challenges for the Specialized team, as the reduced space meant less room for the brake hose to pass through the head tube around the steerer inside. As a result, the fork&#8217;s steerer tube actually kinks to the right inside the head tube, then kinks back to the centre again at the top of the head tube. This allows the rear brake hose to sit alongside it.<\/p>\n<h4 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-curved-win-fin-seat-tube\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Curved &#8216;Win Fin&#8217; seat tube<\/span><\/h4>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-78439799-f51a-4061-a80c-116973e4b9ea\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AQAVf5q2RJhGGBM9Jk2vih-1200-80.png.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AQAVf5q2RJhGGBM9Jk2vih-1024-80.png.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AQAVf5q2RJhGGBM9Jk2vih-970-80.png.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AQAVf5q2RJhGGBM9Jk2vih-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AQAVf5q2RJhGGBM9Jk2vih-480-80.png.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AQAVf5q2RJhGGBM9Jk2vih-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-a895c4e2-566a-4321-aa8b-49439e6cf104\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It wouldn&#8217;t be a Specialized Tarmac launch without a strange descriptor of one of its design elements, and this time it&#8217;s the turn of the &#8216;Win Fin&#8217; seat tube, which curves rearward and follows the shape around the rear tyre.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Specialized says that after studying WorldTour riders during the key parts of races where breaks are formed or races are won and lost, they invariably have ejected one of their bottles and are running an empty cage. As a result, the Tarmac SL9 was designed with this in mind, and this move alone is reportedly worth 0.5 watts at 45km\/h.<\/p>\n<h4 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-narrower-seat-post\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Narrower seat post<\/span><\/h4>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-4f3ae553-d534-441e-8b5c-2018edfa661c\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/god6H9XeBTTPpbuEtEYL9h-1200-80.png.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/god6H9XeBTTPpbuEtEYL9h-1024-80.png.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/god6H9XeBTTPpbuEtEYL9h-970-80.png.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/god6H9XeBTTPpbuEtEYL9h-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/god6H9XeBTTPpbuEtEYL9h-480-80.png.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/god6H9XeBTTPpbuEtEYL9h-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-5490d46e-b811-4cd0-8e79-2adb8ff9f0e1\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">North of the Win Fin is a new S-Works Rapide seatpost, which, incidentally, can also fit into the new Crux, and is narrower at the top half. This is essentially to remove material in an area where airflow is accelerated as it travels between a rider&#8217;s legs.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-spec-changes\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Spec changes<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-5369e0d4-5962-4e64-991a-223b89893df1\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Since my review of the Tarmac SL7, I have bemoaned Specialized&#8217;s reluctance to embrace narrower handlebars, but there is at last some movement and improvement in this regard.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Previously, a 58cm bike would be shipped with 44cm bars, and the solution last time was to simply send cockpits in their own retail packaging so that shops could more easily swap them out when a customer wanted.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">This time round, a 58cm bike will shipped with 42cm bars, but what&#8217;s even better than that is that the measurement at the base of the hoods is now 36cm thanks to the flare of the Rapide cockpit. That&#8217;s much narrower than they would have been on Tarmacs of old, where a 42cm outside-to-outside bar would still be around 40cm at the hoods.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">In addition, all bikes now come with shorter cranks, to the tune of 2.5mm shorter across the board.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Bikes still ship with the 15mm offset seatpost, so those looking for the &#8216;modern&#8217; aero position with an effective steep seat tube, short cranks and narrow bars will probably be looking to swap this out, which is possible but not without the support of an amicable bike shop.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">But I can see why Specialized didn&#8217;t flip the well-loved geometry of its flagship bike on its head to appease a growing-yet-still-small subsection of the market. Maybe that&#8217;s where the Venge fits in.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The other change I really appreciate is that the S-Works Tarmac now ships with 30mm Turbo Cotton Tubeless tyres. This is at odds with most brands who have ballooned their tyre clearance to 32 or 34mm, yet still send bikes out with 28 or even 25mm tyres.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-e427356e-a918-41ab-9f32-627ab3e72279\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KihU2bKdrN2B5PC5tSEpCW-1200-80.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KihU2bKdrN2B5PC5tSEpCW-1024-80.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KihU2bKdrN2B5PC5tSEpCW-970-80.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KihU2bKdrN2B5PC5tSEpCW-650-80.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KihU2bKdrN2B5PC5tSEpCW-480-80.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KihU2bKdrN2B5PC5tSEpCW-320-80.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Using a mannequin hung from a giant metallic frame, the mannequin position can be controlled to millimetre precision and isn&#8217;t reliant on a bike&#8217;s stiffness for support, meaning it can also be used on 3D-printed prototypes. <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-tarmac-sl9-vs-cervelo-s5-colnago-y1rs-and-factor-one\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Tarmac SL9 vs Cervelo S5, Colnago Y1Rs and Factor ONE<\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-32a85c43-ea95-4c7d-9f76-0788f054b4aa\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It&#8217;s becoming incredibly common for new bikes to launch with claims of being &#8216;better&#8217; \u2013 in some metric, but often aerodynamics \u2013 than a named competitor. And almost ubiquitously, one of those named competitors is the S-Works Tarmac.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It could be seen as a compliment, but Specialized has become a little fed up with it and has decided to reciprocate the honour with a comparison of its own.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It has benchmarked the Tarmac SL9 against the Cerv\u00e9lo S5, the Colnago Y1Rs and the Factor One. Given the Remco Evenepoel connection, it&#8217;s not a surprise to see the Cerv\u00e9lo and Colnago (ridden by Jonas Vingegaard and Tadej Poga\u010dar respectively) in there, but the Factor One is an interesting addition that evidences Factor&#8217;s rise to relevance over the past few years; no doubt aided by its unconventional design too.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">These comparisons don&#8217;t simply quote a single metric such as CdA, they input the CdA and weight into the Equation of Speed simulation to quantify the speed differences over a variety of courses.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Using bikes set up as follows:<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-table-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-YFmP8556Yk0P6T9x8QyzP2Emnu78kzgU\" class=\"slice-container table-wrapper table-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-YFmP8556Yk0P6T9x8QyzP2Emnu78kzgU slice-container-table\">\n<div class=\"table__instruction\">Swipe to scroll horizontally<\/div>\n<div class=\"table__container\">\n<table class=\"table__wrapper table__wrapper--inbodyContent table__wrapper--sticky table__wrapper--divider\">\n<tbody class=\"table__body\">\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Component<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Tarmac SL9<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Tarmac SL8<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Colango Y1RS<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Cervelo S5<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Factor ONE<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Wheels<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Roval Sprint CLX<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Roval Sprint CLX<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Enve 4.5 Pro<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Reserve 57\/64<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Black Inc. 64<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Groupset<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Red E1<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Red E1<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Red E1<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Red E1<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Red E1<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Cockpit size<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>110 \u00d7 380<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>110 \u00d7 380<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>105 \u00d7 377<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>100 \u00d7 380<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>110 \u00d7 380<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Tyres<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Cotton TLR 30<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Cotton TLR 30<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Continental Archetype 30<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Vittoria Corsa Pro 29<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Goodyear Eagle F1 30<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-c73580b1-5366-4e08-bad8-688a5ba56490\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Specialized measured each bike as follows:<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-table-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-tbYZLt8dMXf2H7CR1AytKLWGTKH4KndN\" class=\"slice-container table-wrapper table-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-tbYZLt8dMXf2H7CR1AytKLWGTKH4KndN slice-container-table\">\n<div class=\"table__instruction\">Swipe to scroll horizontally<\/div>\n<div class=\"table__container\">\n<table class=\"table__wrapper table__wrapper--inbodyContent table__wrapper--sticky table__wrapper--divider\">\n<tbody class=\"table__body\">\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\"><span class=\"sr-only\">Row 0 &#8211; Cell 0 <\/span><\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Tarmac SL9<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Tarmac SL8<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Colango Y1RS<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Cervelo S5<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Factor ONE<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Weight (kg)<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>6.8<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>6.89<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>7.49<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>7.44<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>7.99<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Weighted CdA (m\u00b2)<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>0.2227<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>0.2251<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>0.2227<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>0.2215<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>0.2231<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-7d69ce0b-82c6-4d9c-b56a-933484e3d915\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Note that the delta between Tarmac SL8 and the competitors is different to what we found in our own wind tunnel tests, but within the error margin of our tests (using a real rider).<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Our tests were performed at a slower speed (40km\/h vs 45km\/h), and the different yaw angles were weighted differently. Specialized says weighting more favourably towards zero yaw offers better real-world relevance for cyclists. Existing accepted methods \u2013 including ours \u2013 are based on the automotive standard of environmental wind speed, measured at 3m above the ground. Specialized&#8217;s data argues that measurements at 1m above ground &#8211; as experienced by a cyclist &#8211; see a lower wind speed, thus increasing the likelihood of experiencing lower yaw as the rider&#8217;s own forward momentum is what creates the wind.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I&#8217;ll save the full breakdown, but over three laps of a relatively flat 2026 Montreal Worlds course, the differences are as follows:<\/p>\n<ul id=\"elk-7000219c-f3fb-4baf-b708-a296f6eff7f5\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">\n<li>SL9 Time to Finish: &#8217;00:19:17.100&#8242;<\/li>\n<li>SL8: +3.7<\/li>\n<li>Cervelo S5: +0.5<\/li>\n<li>Colnago Y1RS: +1.9<\/li>\n<li>Factor ONE: +2.1<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"elk-92dedad0-cbef-40f8-be2b-66241997062b\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And in a single ascent of Alpe D&#8217;Huez, the differences are as follows:<\/p>\n<ul id=\"elk-94899978-6d7c-418c-9418-073fe6797261\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">\n<li>SL9 Time to Finish: \u201800:38:18.000&#8242;<\/li>\n<li>SL8: +5.5<\/li>\n<li>Cervelo S5: +16.4<\/li>\n<li>Colnago Y1RS: +18.2<\/li>\n<li>Factor ONE: +30.9<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-0b1235e5-9cec-4437-bb22-af497397f03a\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VhxEZ5RfzhtW8f7ouTsa2X-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VhxEZ5RfzhtW8f7ouTsa2X-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VhxEZ5RfzhtW8f7ouTsa2X-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VhxEZ5RfzhtW8f7ouTsa2X-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VhxEZ5RfzhtW8f7ouTsa2X-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VhxEZ5RfzhtW8f7ouTsa2X-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Not many photos exist of me with the new bike yet, so here&#8217;s one from my bike fit. <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-early-review\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Early review<\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-0e0dc0b8-182b-4fa3-b0be-057dd294fe3f\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">At the time of publishing, I still want to put more miles through the Tarmac SL9 (and put it in a wind tunnel) before I write a full review, but having ridden the SL6, SL7, SL8 and SL9, (as well as the Venge Vias, Venge, Roubaix, Allez, old and new Aethos and probably a few I&#8217;ve forgotten over the years), I can confidently say the SL9 retains the well-loved Tarmac handling and ride feel.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">That&#8217;s not to say it&#8217;s exactly the same though.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Firstly, an important caveat. I am now a proud father, and two things have happened since January when our son was born.<\/p>\n<ol start=\"1\" id=\"elk-6f956aa0-b76f-4ee3-a6dd-b14a5be16920\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">\n<li>I&#8217;ve not ridden as much as I normally would, so my fitness has tanked.<\/li>\n<li>My willingness to rail around corners has reduced as my sense of mortality has increased.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p id=\"elk-69b61485-a7a5-4c99-a31b-55cb95dd85b7\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The reason I mention this is that the perceived performance of a bike is quite correlated to my ability to ride it. It&#8217;s the &#8220;all bikes feel slow at altitude&#8221; dilemma, but framed differently.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Take 40 watts off my FTP, and bikes won&#8217;t feel as sprightly uphill, because my reference point of the SL8 is on legs I had two years ago. Nor will a bike feel as telepathic on descents. I&#8217;m comparing today&#8217;s apples against last year&#8217;s oranges.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Therefore, despite jumping onto the Tarmac SL8 in 2023 and immediately feeling like I could throw it into hairpins, that took around 4-5 hours of riding this time round, and only came on a fast descent of Coe, a spicy climb north of Morgan Hill. I was following a group of Specialized employees and locals that knew the roads inside out. Hanging off the back of the group to follow their lines helped me to judge the otherwise never-before-seen corners and let the bike shine.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And shine it did. It was stable, predictable and planted when you wanted it to hold a line around wider corners, but agile on the tighter corners and easy to accelerate back to speed on the other side of them. The SRAM Red brakes were reliable as ever for late braking into tight hairpins, and the wide tyres added a level of composure that really helped on rough and gritty roads I&#8217;d never ridden before.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The flare of the handlebars meant leverage wasn&#8217;t lost when you wanted it for those tiny steering inputs on fast descents, but the narrower spacing between the hoods was perfect for getting small in the slipstream when the roads straightened up or levelled off. It really was a fun experience that, without getting too sentimental, was one of those that reminds you why you love riding bikes so much.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">One thing that&#8217;s not affected by my fitness, however, is the comfort and ride feel, and the balanced quality that has long shone through in previous generation S-Works Tarmacs remains abundant here. It&#8217;s a lovely blend of snappy and punchy responsiveness under power, but smooth, stable and refined the rest of the time.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-price-and-availability\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Price and availability<\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-2df34699-0eb4-4b9a-8116-ced6fb7991e8\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">For now, as mentioned, Specialized is only launching the S-Works model Tarmac SL9.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">When the lower-spec models will come is to be confirmed, but that at least simplifies your options if you want to buy one this side of the Tour de France.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-table-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-RWCIIBneHlMShSLAM6rxiYEOIZ9bY8nB\" class=\"slice-container table-wrapper table-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-RWCIIBneHlMShSLAM6rxiYEOIZ9bY8nB slice-container-table\">\n<div class=\"table__instruction\">Swipe to scroll horizontally<\/div>\n<div class=\"table__container\">\n<table class=\"table__wrapper table__wrapper--inbodyContent table__wrapper--sticky table__wrapper--divider\">\n<tbody class=\"table__body\">\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>S-Works Tarmac SL9 AXS<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>$14,000<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>\u20ac13,999<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>\u00a311,999<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>$21,500<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>S-Works Tarmac SL9 Di2<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>$13,500<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>\u20ac13,999<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>\u00a311,999<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>$20,500<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>S-Works Framesets (incl. Team Replica colours)<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>$6,000<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>\u20ac5,999<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>\u00a35,499<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>$9,500<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-team-edition-colourways\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Team edition colourways<\/span><\/h2>\n<div id=\"slice-container-imageGallery-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-jIlimzXY9suHbB4f5esGAxXmPpsQ3vpc\" class=\"slice-container imageGallery-wrapper imageGallery-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-jIlimzXY9suHbB4f5esGAxXmPpsQ3vpc slice-container-imageGallery\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"inline-gallery first-slide-only\">\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__count\">Image 1 of 4<\/div>\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__items\">\n<div class=\"react-swipeable-view-container\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"false\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">SD Worx-Protime<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">FDJ United-Suez<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">Soudal-QuickStep<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block mb-5\" id=\"articleTag\" data-component-name=\"PostArticleLinks\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"post-article-links\">\n<div class=\"border-b border-b-black border-solid py-2.5 text-black font-bold uppercase\">TOPICS<\/div>\n<nav class=\"py-2.5 flex gap-2.5 flex-wrap\" data-analytics-id=\"article-tag\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-tag\">\n<p>Tech<\/p>\n<p>Road<\/p>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A slice-container-authorBio\">\n<div class=\"author author__default-layout author--separator author--collapsible\" data-hydrate=\"true\">\n<div class=\"author__header\">\n<div class=\"author__avatar-block\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"author__avatar image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/V3GXEP85KSp9eSMY5JsYqd-140-80.jpg.webp 140w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/V3GXEP85KSp9eSMY5JsYqd.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/V3GXEP85KSp9eSMY5JsYqd.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/V3GXEP85KSp9eSMY5JsYqd.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">Josh Croxton<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__social\">\n<nav class=\"button-social-group author__social-buttons\" aria-labelledby=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">\n<div id=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">Social Links Navigation<\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__role\">Associate Editor (Tech)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>Josh is Associate Editor of Cyclingnews \u2013 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&#8217;s covered everything from buyer&#8217;s guides and deals to the latest tech news and reviews. <\/p>\n<p>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, &#8216;cross and cross-country bikes, the latter usually with his two dogs in tow.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"relative max-w-[1070px] viafoura-twig-component mt-6 mx-4 lg:mx-0\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class=&apos;vfcustom-community-guidelines&apos;&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1 rounded-b-[var(--comment-widget-border-radius,0)]\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-lg!\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-sm!\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"mx-2 my-5 sm:mx-0\">\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-adviser:hybrid\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Read more<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CDs7SbZyWquz28KBAwjhFa-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CDs7SbZyWquz28KBAwjhFa-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CDs7SbZyWquz28KBAwjhFa-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CDs7SbZyWquz28KBAwjhFa-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CDs7SbZyWquz28KBAwjhFa-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Road Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">I hid in a bush to get the first spy shots of the new Specialized Tarmac SL9 at the newly-named Dauphin\u00e9<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Htfrknfjz3RdDHZzWcNArB-406-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Htfrknfjz3RdDHZzWcNArB-406-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Htfrknfjz3RdDHZzWcNArB-406-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Htfrknfjz3RdDHZzWcNArB-406-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Htfrknfjz3RdDHZzWcNArB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Cycling Tech &amp; Components<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Is this the new Tarmac SL9? Mystery Specialized bike spotted at team training camp<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWwHj83UjoSJJKJ7XA6maZ-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWwHj83UjoSJJKJ7XA6maZ-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWwHj83UjoSJJKJ7XA6maZ-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWwHj83UjoSJJKJ7XA6maZ-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWwHj83UjoSJJKJ7XA6maZ-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Gravel Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Specialized promises its new Crux gravel bike is aero and lightweight, so we checked for ourselves in the wind tunnel \u2013 Can you have your cake and eat it?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/e4FJXyiGhpDExJAC2SgYVf-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/e4FJXyiGhpDExJAC2SgYVf-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/e4FJXyiGhpDExJAC2SgYVf-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/e4FJXyiGhpDExJAC2SgYVf-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/e4FJXyiGhpDExJAC2SgYVf-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Road Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Cerv\u00e9lo S5 review &#8211; The fastest bike we&#8217;ve ever tested, but is it actually any good to ride? <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Road Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;We did not design it to win a comparison table&#8217; &#8211; Look&#8217;s new race bike blends aero with real-world performance<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hz3k3WCbHscfQWQSYFnqk-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hz3k3WCbHscfQWQSYFnqk-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hz3k3WCbHscfQWQSYFnqk-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hz3k3WCbHscfQWQSYFnqk-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hz3k3WCbHscfQWQSYFnqk-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Gravel Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">New Specialized Crux goes all in on aero gravel, with a 15-watt improvement, new geometry, and lighter builds <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-category\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Bikes<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UTeZtJbsZQWRHW3jeBTuTk-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UTeZtJbsZQWRHW3jeBTuTk-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UTeZtJbsZQWRHW3jeBTuTk-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UTeZtJbsZQWRHW3jeBTuTk-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UTeZtJbsZQWRHW3jeBTuTk-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Eurobike 2026: Five new bikes that caught my eye<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Road Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;We did not design it to win a comparison table&#8217; &#8211; Look&#8217;s new race bike blends aero with real-world performance<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vUrytX6acKkkZhFgBLDNR7-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vUrytX6acKkkZhFgBLDNR7-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vUrytX6acKkkZhFgBLDNR7-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vUrytX6acKkkZhFgBLDNR7-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/vUrytX6acKkkZhFgBLDNR7-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Pro Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Stage 2 of Tour of Slovenia neutralised for nearly 30 minutes due to crash<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3ndLDPHRkbMTkNnpt4Hqa6-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3ndLDPHRkbMTkNnpt4Hqa6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3ndLDPHRkbMTkNnpt4Hqa6-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3ndLDPHRkbMTkNnpt4Hqa6-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3ndLDPHRkbMTkNnpt4Hqa6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Pro Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Tadej Poga\u010dar&#8217;s new time trial bike is officially here \u2013 All the details on the half-kilo lighter Colnago TT2<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YRuAguMtbULNhm4XLaqmuJ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YRuAguMtbULNhm4XLaqmuJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YRuAguMtbULNhm4XLaqmuJ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YRuAguMtbULNhm4XLaqmuJ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YRuAguMtbULNhm4XLaqmuJ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Canyon says its tech-filled bike and helmet prototypes can predict the future<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E6p5SNuJdgRMn97S8MW2ci-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E6p5SNuJdgRMn97S8MW2ci-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E6p5SNuJdgRMn97S8MW2ci-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E6p5SNuJdgRMn97S8MW2ci-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/E6p5SNuJdgRMn97S8MW2ci-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Road Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Seka Spear review: Incredible specs and dialled geometry, but a disappointment in one vital area<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-articletype\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Features<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zantGmAoguwfRAJctuWQFa-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zantGmAoguwfRAJctuWQFa-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zantGmAoguwfRAJctuWQFa-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zantGmAoguwfRAJctuWQFa-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zantGmAoguwfRAJctuWQFa-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Club des Cinq: How Anquetil, Merckx, Hinault and Indurain won their fifth Tour de France, and the history that Tadej Poga\u010dar seeks to emulate<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MrTDCTCzjt7SqaA6aiM33B-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MrTDCTCzjt7SqaA6aiM33B-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MrTDCTCzjt7SqaA6aiM33B-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MrTDCTCzjt7SqaA6aiM33B-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/MrTDCTCzjt7SqaA6aiM33B-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Cycling Tech &amp; Components<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Eurobike Tech Gallery: Unreleased gravel machines, crazy aero builds and futuristic concept bikes<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ETHSCvhJmsvysUpX3yZeYJ-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ETHSCvhJmsvysUpX3yZeYJ-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ETHSCvhJmsvysUpX3yZeYJ-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ETHSCvhJmsvysUpX3yZeYJ-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ETHSCvhJmsvysUpX3yZeYJ-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Write off Jonas Vingegaard at your peril, but there is one thing that could let him down at this Tour de France<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k47gPEqWS7qGhFA58fFsJW-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k47gPEqWS7qGhFA58fFsJW-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k47gPEqWS7qGhFA58fFsJW-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k47gPEqWS7qGhFA58fFsJW-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/k47gPEqWS7qGhFA58fFsJW-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">With Oscar Onley out, what can Netcompany Ineos hope to achieve in this Tour de France \u2013 and in future ones?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/s2mu99cSc9cQb8sSAxSoJR-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/s2mu99cSc9cQb8sSAxSoJR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/s2mu99cSc9cQb8sSAxSoJR-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/s2mu99cSc9cQb8sSAxSoJR-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/s2mu99cSc9cQb8sSAxSoJR-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Tadej keeps on surprising us&#8217; \u2013 The inside view on how UAE Team Emirates-XRG have constructed Tadej Poga\u010dar&#8217;s assault on a fifth Tour de France<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gfAaSpgaBD5eiD77JQmbFF-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Safety<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">The High Temperature Protocol, switching dates, racing in the morning \u2013 What could the future of the Tour de France look like as summer temperatures continue to rise?<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"max-w-full sponsored-post--placeholder animate-pulse\">\n<div class=\"relative!\"><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"widgetArea17\" class=\"widget-area md:basis-1\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-1-3 page-widget-area-17\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"dynamic\" id=\"popular-data\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-dynamic widget-popular-data widget-dynamic-popular-data widget-dynamic-fter-popular-box\">\n<div class=\"wdn-fte-pb pos-relative space-t20\n\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-popularBox\" class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice popularBox slice-container-popularBox\">\n<section data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"popular-box\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">LATEST ARTICLES<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ol class=\"popular-box__articles-list popular-box__articles-list--active\">\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__image-wrapper\">\n<div><source class=\"popular-box__article-list__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sCJMNDvRKKpfRDLfG8eLdU-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sCJMNDvRKKpfRDLfG8eLdU-640-80.jpg.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sCJMNDvRKKpfRDLfG8eLdU-720-80.jpg.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sCJMNDvRKKpfRDLfG8eLdU-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sCJMNDvRKKpfRDLfG8eLdU.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sCJMNDvRKKpfRDLfG8eLdU.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sCJMNDvRKKpfRDLfG8eLdU.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">1<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">American Criterium Cup: New Zealand riders sweep elite races at Downer Classic in Wisconsin and hold off series leaders in tight sprints<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">2<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Giant overhauls gravel range with two new bikes and a suite of gravel components<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">3<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Sprinter Tim Merlier spearheads Soudal-QuickStep&#8217;s first assault on Tour de France in post-Remco Evenepoel era<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">4<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Save up to $372.60 on a NordVPN subscription \u2013 Lock down your Tour de France viewing from anywhere this summer<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">5<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Is heat training playing with fire? There are hidden risks, but here&#8217;s how to do it safely<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nBikes\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>Win Fin, Flow Fork, Speed Sniffer: Specialized launches &#8216;fastest road bike ever made&#8217; in the S-Works Tarmac SL9<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"byline font-ui-heading text-[12px]\">\nFeatures<\/p>\n<div><span><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nJosh Croxton <\/span><span><br \/>\npublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-06-30T13:14:07Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n30 June 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">American brand draws on Formula 1 lap times software to quantify performance beyond just aero and weight<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"text-gray-700 mx-auto mb-4 flex items-center justify-start mx-0 my-5 p-0\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-[var(--affiliate-disclaimer--text-color,inherit))] mb-2 text-[length:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--font-size,0.75rem)] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-inherit [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"font-ui-heading flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Social:Dropdown\" role=\"menu\" id=\"utilitybar__dropdown--share\" aria-labelledby=\"utilitybar__button--share\" class=\"absolute left-0 top-full w-44 bg-white rounded-md shadow-md border border-neutral-200 z-[9996] list-none m-0 py-2 px-3 border-solid\">\n<ul class=\"m-0!\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Facebook<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>X<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Pinterest<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Email<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-share-this-article\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nShare this article\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\"><span class=\"ml-1 inline-flex h-5 px-2 shrink-0 items-center justify-center self-center overflow-hidden whitespace-nowrap rounded-[10px] bg-primary-500 text-[11px] leading-none font-ui-heading font-semibold text-white\">4<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-join-the-conversation\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nJoin the conversation\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>Follow us<\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nAdd us as a preferred source on Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-bd617b88-3389-4661-88ce-62b736b0271a\">Today is the day many Specialized road bike fans will have been waiting for; the launch of the American brand&#8217;s latest flagship race bike.<\/p>\n<p>But no, it&#8217;s not a Venge as many predicted. It follows in its many predecessors&#8217; footsteps (tyre prints?) and is called the Tarmac SL9.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-bd617b88-3389-4661-88ce-62b736b0271a-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Its launch has been a typically turbulent Tarmac launch. It started, as it often does, with an early digital imagery leak courtesy of a farflung retailer and the WeightWeenies forum. It was then followed by social media leaks courtesy of Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe&#8217;s in-team photographer (who no doubt got a slap on the wrist before he duly deleted his post).<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-6 w-full overflow-hidden rounded-[10px] lg:my-8\" data-component-name=\"JwPlayer:Carousel\" data-jwp-carousel data-jwp-carousel-payload=\"{&quot;ids&quot;:{&quot;playerID&quot;:&quot;jYDCcabO&quot;,&quot;searchPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;divID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;fallbackPlaylistID&quot;:&quot;gwjdoYHD&quot;,&quot;fallbackDivID&quot;:&quot;botr_gwjdoYHD_jYDCcabO_div&quot;,&quot;key&quot;:&quot;X9\/mXVGac0NphghLH9hZaqWA5d3dhAM\/Ih07grnEyMLjuO2E&quot;,&quot;tintLogo&quot;:true,&quot;useSearchPlaylist&quot;:false,&quot;enabled&quot;:true},&quot;signPostingEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;signPostingLinkEnabled&quot;:true,&quot;waitForAdLoad&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnDesktop&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnMobile&quot;:false,&quot;hidePlayerOnTablet&quot;:false}\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-nowrap items-center justify-between gap-3 bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-header>\n<div class=\"flex min-w-0 shrink items-center\"><span class=\"inline-flex items-center gap-1.5 text-sm font-article-heading capitalize leading-5 text-white whitespace-nowrap\"><span class=\"jwp-carousel-title-desktop\">Latest Videos From<\/span><span class=\"jwp-carousel-brand inline-flex items-center\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] block h-[18px] w-auto shrink-0 brightness-0 invert\"><\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"aspect-video w-full min-h-[200px] lg:min-h-[330px] relative overflow-hidden bg-black\" data-jwp-carousel-container>\n<div class=\"absolute inset-0 size-full items-center justify-center bg-white\" data-jwp-carousel-fallback><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/flexiimages\/gmvwmhupgi1715762145.svg\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"rounded-[var(--image--border-radius,0)] max-h-12 w-auto\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"min-h-[44px] bg-zinc-900 px-[14px] py-3\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting><a class=\"invisible block truncate text-sm font-bold leading-5 text-white underline decoration-solid underline-offset-2\" data-jwp-carousel-signposting-link href target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><span data-jwp-carousel-signposting-title>Watch full video here: <\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And it was then followed up by Dauphine spy photos courtesy of our very own Will Jones, who had to go full Daily Mail paparazzi and hide in a bush to get them, and was subsequently threatened on social media by a Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe mechanic. Fun.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-what-s-new\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>What&#8217;s new<\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-35729e12-aa4b-4ad8-85d2-d99eb0ba0bd5\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">At first glance, and second, the SL9 looks very similar to the SL8, but having been up close with one \u2013 I have one next to me right now as I type this \u2013 it&#8217;s fair to say a lot of work has gone into the bike that will probably go unnoticed.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CDs7SbZyWquz28KBAwjhFa-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/CDs7SbZyWquz28KBAwjhFa-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">I hid in a bush to get the first spy shots of the new Specialized Tarmac SL9 at the newly-named Dauphin\u00e9<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Htfrknfjz3RdDHZzWcNArB-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Htfrknfjz3RdDHZzWcNArB-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Is this the new Tarmac SL9? Mystery Specialized bike spotted at team training camp<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWwHj83UjoSJJKJ7XA6maZ-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/xWwHj83UjoSJJKJ7XA6maZ-150-80.png.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Specialized promises its new Crux gravel bike is aero and lightweight, so we checked for ourselves in the wind tunnel \u2013 Can you have your cake and eat it?<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">In fact, every single tube has been reshaped in some way. The ones that stand out the most, however, are:<\/p>\n<ul id=\"elk-d69690c3-28b2-4895-b1b6-600ed4e1520d\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">\n<li>The seat tube now curves rearward to follow the shape of the tyre.<\/li>\n<li>The fork legs are now deeper and thus hide the deep &#8216;speed sniffer&#8217; head tube.<\/li>\n<li>The seatpost has a narrowed section for extra aero <em>gainz <\/em>between the rider&#8217;s legs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"elk-5b2effd8-13cc-429f-9352-c8f1584b724e\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">In brief, that leads to a bike that is four watts more aero than its predecessor. The claimed frame weight is two grams heavier at 687g (size 56cm in Raw Carbon \/ Gloss Amethyst Frost finish), but full builds now start at 6.5kg thanks to lighter-weight components.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Tyre clearance remains at 32mm, but the specced option has bumped up to 30mm.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">For today, the only version being revealed is the S-Works model. It&#8217;s safe to say that more budget-friendly models will follow in due course, but today is all about the flagship product and as we gear up for the Tour de France, the team replica framesets too.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-baa70563-54ae-48a8-8d55-6c850de8d4a7\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U25oCAx8Cpsj9j7FP8oqNP-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U25oCAx8Cpsj9j7FP8oqNP-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U25oCAx8Cpsj9j7FP8oqNP-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U25oCAx8Cpsj9j7FP8oqNP-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U25oCAx8Cpsj9j7FP8oqNP-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/U25oCAx8Cpsj9j7FP8oqNP-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-the-equation-of-speed\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>The equation of speed<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-3acacf23-463e-490b-9840-7f5e3856d63d\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">When the brand launched the Tarmac SL8, it came with all the usual claims of being stiffer, lighter, more aero and so on, but quietly tacked on at the bottom were some calculations claiming it was 20 seconds quicker than the SL7 up the Col du Tourmalet or 128 seconds over the 294km course of Milan-San Remo. Without much context on how the brand landed on those numbers, they went largely ignored by most media and readers.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/e4FJXyiGhpDExJAC2SgYVf-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/e4FJXyiGhpDExJAC2SgYVf-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Cerv\u00e9lo S5 review &#8211; The fastest bike we&#8217;ve ever tested, but is it actually any good to ride? <\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZT3F6DmduyWsPmfqrv3UwB-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;We did not design it to win a comparison table&#8217; &#8211; Look&#8217;s new race bike blends aero with real-world performance<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hz3k3WCbHscfQWQSYFnqk-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Hz3k3WCbHscfQWQSYFnqk-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">New Specialized Crux goes all in on aero gravel, with a 15-watt improvement, new geometry, and lighter builds <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Returning to the present day, those claims are no longer tacked on quietly, but front and centre. Specialized has said it before, but this time it led its presentation with the statement: &#8220;Time to the finish is all that matters.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">With that in mind, Specialized says the SL9 is &#8220;Fourteen seconds faster [than the SL8] over the last 80km of the final stage of the 2024 Tour de France Femmes,&#8221; which conveniently is the stage in which FDJ United-Suez leader Demi Vollering lost the yellow jersey by four seconds to Kasia Niewiadoma.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I&#8217;m told that when Vollering heard the claim, she wasn&#8217;t best pleased (in a &#8216;thanks, but I wish you hadn&#8217;t told me that&#8217; sense).<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Specialized says that &#8216;Time to Finish&#8217; is a &#8220;physics-based simulation output that predicts total elapsed race time over a specific real-world course, using measured inputs from aerodynamics, weight, rolling resistance, surface roughness, environmental conditions, and rider power. \ufeffIt is not a slogan. It is not theoretical. It is the result of measured data applied to real courses.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And that all takes us to Specialized&#8217;s 10-year &#8216;Equation of Speed&#8217; journey.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">In 2016, Specialized hired Marcel Keyser from Scuderia Toro Rosso F1 team as a Senior Engineer for Race Simulation, and in the ensuing decade, he has developed a piece of software that looks at every force acting upon a cyclist, which he calls the Equation of Speed, effectively replicating software used in Formula 1 to predict lap times and guide the design of the cars.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The aforementioned sextet of inputs (aerodynamics, weight, rolling resistance, surface roughness, environmental conditions, and rider power) are also joined by other metrics such as tyre grip and rider skill.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">A neat example is that Keyser can measure a rider&#8217;s cornering speed using .FIT files, assign a cornering ability score to each rider, and then advise on their appropriate setup for an upcoming race \u2013 do they need the slower, grippier winter tyre when it&#8217;s raining, or can they handle the 80km\/h descent on the faster-rolling summer tyre?<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">With this software and by developing tests that measured each of these things in isolation, such as a test that measures the rolling resistance of tyres or the CdA of each rider on each bike, he could input known variables, and it would spit out a simulation telling him how long it would take a rider to finish a specific course.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-how-does-that-relate-to-the-tarmac-sl9\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>How does that relate to the Tarmac SL9?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-e56abe99-ecc2-4911-bd03-fd57671c5d85\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Specialized took this software, initially created to choose the optimal equipment for race day, and applied it to <em>designing<\/em> the optimal equipment for race day.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">With key races in mind, Specialized designed the Tarmac SL8, and now of course the SL9 (as well as the recently released Crux) not only to be more aerodynamic in a wind tunnel or lighter on a scale, but to be faster to the finish line on a variety of important course profiles.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">You could say that it went to a lot of trouble to land on the same end goal that most bike brands aim for: lighter, more aero, better handling. But Specialized will tell you the special sauce lies in finding the right balance with a measured, scientific approach.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I feel this points us towards the resurgence of a dedicated Specialized aero bike like the Venge. Specialized argues the Tarmac SL9 can be optimised via configuration, and for the upcoming Tour de France the riders will have three wheelset options: Rapide CLX III, Alpinist CLX III, and Rapide Sprint, which they can choose between depending on various factors.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">But why shouldn&#8217;t it also extend to frame choice? I struggle to believe that when designing a frame with specific courses in mind, one single design is optimal for Paris-Roubaix, a flat sprint stage, and the Col du Tourmalet concurrently. I shan&#8217;t hold my breath, though.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-the-differences-in-detail\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>The differences, in detail<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-4c674a18-4e78-4b0e-9271-1740c5a2401c\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I&#8217;ve used a lot of words there to explain Specialized&#8217;s thinking. Now let&#8217;s dig into what&#8217;s actually changed.<\/p>\n<h4 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-deeper-fork\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Deeper fork<\/span><\/h4>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-3e1a581c-14c4-46b0-bfa1-f89e2b6e85f0\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4W3Ur4zAwwMTZiacz22FLh-1200-80.png.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4W3Ur4zAwwMTZiacz22FLh-1024-80.png.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4W3Ur4zAwwMTZiacz22FLh-970-80.png.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4W3Ur4zAwwMTZiacz22FLh-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4W3Ur4zAwwMTZiacz22FLh-480-80.png.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4W3Ur4zAwwMTZiacz22FLh-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-7f6b9e92-03b3-4ade-8aa7-22956b8334a3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The most divisive feature of the SL8 &#8211; the protruding &#8216;Speed Sniffer&#8217; head tube &#8211; has technically not gone anywhere, but thanks to a deeper fork, which Specialized is calling the &#8216;Flow Fork&#8217;, with its further-forward leading edge, the front end of the bike looks seamless once again.<\/p>\n<h4 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-lower-down-tube\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Lower down tube<\/span><\/h4>\n<p id=\"elk-f3d0e673-86c3-43d7-97c8-46438e7dd0fc\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Behind the fork, the SL9&#8217;s down tube has also been dropped slightly to better manage the airflow coming from the fork and the front wheel.<\/p>\n<h4 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-narrower-head-tube\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Narrower head tube<\/span><\/h4>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-70090a3a-6611-46d1-9a0a-d05d95172f01\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BwruAZay37H5rAUEquLZMX-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BwruAZay37H5rAUEquLZMX-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BwruAZay37H5rAUEquLZMX-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BwruAZay37H5rAUEquLZMX-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BwruAZay37H5rAUEquLZMX-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/BwruAZay37H5rAUEquLZMX-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-d36afc0f-c8bd-4666-a386-2c844afb58de\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The &#8216;Speed sniffer&#8217; head tube shape remains largely unchanged when viewed from the side, but head on it has shrunk by 4mm, bringing its frontal area down by 10 per cent. Of course, that&#8217;s just the frontal area of the head tube itself, meaning the rider&#8217;s total frontal area will be reduced by a much smaller percentage.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">This led to a few design challenges for the Specialized team, as the reduced space meant less room for the brake hose to pass through the head tube around the steerer inside. As a result, the fork&#8217;s steerer tube actually kinks to the right inside the head tube, then kinks back to the centre again at the top of the head tube. This allows the rear brake hose to sit alongside it.<\/p>\n<h4 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-curved-win-fin-seat-tube\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Curved &#8216;Win Fin&#8217; seat tube<\/span><\/h4>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-78439799-f51a-4061-a80c-116973e4b9ea\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AQAVf5q2RJhGGBM9Jk2vih-1200-80.png.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AQAVf5q2RJhGGBM9Jk2vih-1024-80.png.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AQAVf5q2RJhGGBM9Jk2vih-970-80.png.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AQAVf5q2RJhGGBM9Jk2vih-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AQAVf5q2RJhGGBM9Jk2vih-480-80.png.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AQAVf5q2RJhGGBM9Jk2vih-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-a895c4e2-566a-4321-aa8b-49439e6cf104\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It wouldn&#8217;t be a Specialized Tarmac launch without a strange descriptor of one of its design elements, and this time it&#8217;s the turn of the &#8216;Win Fin&#8217; seat tube, which curves rearward and follows the shape around the rear tyre.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Specialized says that after studying WorldTour riders during the key parts of races where breaks are formed or races are won and lost, they invariably have ejected one of their bottles and are running an empty cage. As a result, the Tarmac SL9 was designed with this in mind, and this move alone is reportedly worth 0.5 watts at 45km\/h.<\/p>\n<h4 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-narrower-seat-post\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Narrower seat post<\/span><\/h4>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-4f3ae553-d534-441e-8b5c-2018edfa661c\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/god6H9XeBTTPpbuEtEYL9h-1200-80.png.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/god6H9XeBTTPpbuEtEYL9h-1024-80.png.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/god6H9XeBTTPpbuEtEYL9h-970-80.png.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/god6H9XeBTTPpbuEtEYL9h-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/god6H9XeBTTPpbuEtEYL9h-480-80.png.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/god6H9XeBTTPpbuEtEYL9h-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-5490d46e-b811-4cd0-8e79-2adb8ff9f0e1\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">North of the Win Fin is a new S-Works Rapide seatpost, which, incidentally, can also fit into the new Crux, and is narrower at the top half. This is essentially to remove material in an area where airflow is accelerated as it travels between a rider&#8217;s legs.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-spec-changes\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Spec changes<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-5369e0d4-5962-4e64-991a-223b89893df1\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Since my review of the Tarmac SL7, I have bemoaned Specialized&#8217;s reluctance to embrace narrower handlebars, but there is at last some movement and improvement in this regard.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Previously, a 58cm bike would be shipped with 44cm bars, and the solution last time was to simply send cockpits in their own retail packaging so that shops could more easily swap them out when a customer wanted.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">This time round, a 58cm bike will shipped with 42cm bars, but what&#8217;s even better than that is that the measurement at the base of the hoods is now 36cm thanks to the flare of the Rapide cockpit. That&#8217;s much narrower than they would have been on Tarmacs of old, where a 42cm outside-to-outside bar would still be around 40cm at the hoods.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">In addition, all bikes now come with shorter cranks, to the tune of 2.5mm shorter across the board.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Bikes still ship with the 15mm offset seatpost, so those looking for the &#8216;modern&#8217; aero position with an effective steep seat tube, short cranks and narrow bars will probably be looking to swap this out, which is possible but not without the support of an amicable bike shop.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">But I can see why Specialized didn&#8217;t flip the well-loved geometry of its flagship bike on its head to appease a growing-yet-still-small subsection of the market. Maybe that&#8217;s where the Venge fits in.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The other change I really appreciate is that the S-Works Tarmac now ships with 30mm Turbo Cotton Tubeless tyres. This is at odds with most brands who have ballooned their tyre clearance to 32 or 34mm, yet still send bikes out with 28 or even 25mm tyres.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-e427356e-a918-41ab-9f32-627ab3e72279\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KihU2bKdrN2B5PC5tSEpCW-1200-80.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KihU2bKdrN2B5PC5tSEpCW-1024-80.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KihU2bKdrN2B5PC5tSEpCW-970-80.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KihU2bKdrN2B5PC5tSEpCW-650-80.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KihU2bKdrN2B5PC5tSEpCW-480-80.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KihU2bKdrN2B5PC5tSEpCW-320-80.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Using a mannequin hung from a giant metallic frame, the mannequin position can be controlled to millimetre precision and isn&#8217;t reliant on a bike&#8217;s stiffness for support, meaning it can also be used on 3D-printed prototypes. <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-tarmac-sl9-vs-cervelo-s5-colnago-y1rs-and-factor-one\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Tarmac SL9 vs Cervelo S5, Colnago Y1Rs and Factor ONE<\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-32a85c43-ea95-4c7d-9f76-0788f054b4aa\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It&#8217;s becoming incredibly common for new bikes to launch with claims of being &#8216;better&#8217; \u2013 in some metric, but often aerodynamics \u2013 than a named competitor. And almost ubiquitously, one of those named competitors is the S-Works Tarmac.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It could be seen as a compliment, but Specialized has become a little fed up with it and has decided to reciprocate the honour with a comparison of its own.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It has benchmarked the Tarmac SL9 against the Cerv\u00e9lo S5, the Colnago Y1Rs and the Factor One. Given the Remco Evenepoel connection, it&#8217;s not a surprise to see the Cerv\u00e9lo and Colnago (ridden by Jonas Vingegaard and Tadej Poga\u010dar respectively) in there, but the Factor One is an interesting addition that evidences Factor&#8217;s rise to relevance over the past few years; no doubt aided by its unconventional design too.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">These comparisons don&#8217;t simply quote a single metric such as CdA, they input the CdA and weight into the Equation of Speed simulation to quantify the speed differences over a variety of courses.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Using bikes set up as follows:<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-table-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-YFmP8556Yk0P6T9x8QyzP2Emnu78kzgU\" class=\"slice-container table-wrapper table-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-YFmP8556Yk0P6T9x8QyzP2Emnu78kzgU slice-container-table\">\n<div class=\"table__instruction\">Swipe to scroll horizontally<\/div>\n<div class=\"table__container\">\n<table class=\"table__wrapper table__wrapper--inbodyContent table__wrapper--sticky table__wrapper--divider\">\n<tbody class=\"table__body\">\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Component<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Tarmac SL9<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Tarmac SL8<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Colango Y1RS<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Cervelo S5<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Factor ONE<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Wheels<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Roval Sprint CLX<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Roval Sprint CLX<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Enve 4.5 Pro<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Reserve 57\/64<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Black Inc. 64<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Groupset<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Red E1<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Red E1<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Red E1<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Red E1<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Red E1<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Cockpit size<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>110 \u00d7 380<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>110 \u00d7 380<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>105 \u00d7 377<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>100 \u00d7 380<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>110 \u00d7 380<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Tyres<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Cotton TLR 30<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Cotton TLR 30<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Continental Archetype 30<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Vittoria Corsa Pro 29<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>Goodyear Eagle F1 30<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-c73580b1-5366-4e08-bad8-688a5ba56490\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Specialized measured each bike as follows:<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-table-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-tbYZLt8dMXf2H7CR1AytKLWGTKH4KndN\" class=\"slice-container table-wrapper table-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-tbYZLt8dMXf2H7CR1AytKLWGTKH4KndN slice-container-table\">\n<div class=\"table__instruction\">Swipe to scroll horizontally<\/div>\n<div class=\"table__container\">\n<table class=\"table__wrapper table__wrapper--inbodyContent table__wrapper--sticky table__wrapper--divider\">\n<tbody class=\"table__body\">\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\"><span class=\"sr-only\">Row 0 &#8211; Cell 0 <\/span><\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Tarmac SL9<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Tarmac SL8<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Colango Y1RS<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Cervelo S5<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Factor ONE<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Weight (kg)<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>6.8<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>6.89<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>7.49<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>7.44<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>7.99<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p><strong>Weighted CdA (m\u00b2)<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>0.2227<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>0.2251<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>0.2227<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>0.2215<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>0.2231<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-7d69ce0b-82c6-4d9c-b56a-933484e3d915\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Note that the delta between Tarmac SL8 and the competitors is different to what we found in our own wind tunnel tests, but within the error margin of our tests (using a real rider).<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Our tests were performed at a slower speed (40km\/h vs 45km\/h), and the different yaw angles were weighted differently. Specialized says weighting more favourably towards zero yaw offers better real-world relevance for cyclists. Existing accepted methods \u2013 including ours \u2013 are based on the automotive standard of environmental wind speed, measured at 3m above the ground. Specialized&#8217;s data argues that measurements at 1m above ground &#8211; as experienced by a cyclist &#8211; see a lower wind speed, thus increasing the likelihood of experiencing lower yaw as the rider&#8217;s own forward momentum is what creates the wind.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I&#8217;ll save the full breakdown, but over three laps of a relatively flat 2026 Montreal Worlds course, the differences are as follows:<\/p>\n<ul id=\"elk-7000219c-f3fb-4baf-b708-a296f6eff7f5\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">\n<li>SL9 Time to Finish: &#8217;00:19:17.100&#8242;<\/li>\n<li>SL8: +3.7<\/li>\n<li>Cervelo S5: +0.5<\/li>\n<li>Colnago Y1RS: +1.9<\/li>\n<li>Factor ONE: +2.1<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"elk-92dedad0-cbef-40f8-be2b-66241997062b\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And in a single ascent of Alpe D&#8217;Huez, the differences are as follows:<\/p>\n<ul id=\"elk-94899978-6d7c-418c-9418-073fe6797261\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">\n<li>SL9 Time to Finish: \u201800:38:18.000&#8242;<\/li>\n<li>SL8: +5.5<\/li>\n<li>Cervelo S5: +16.4<\/li>\n<li>Colnago Y1RS: +18.2<\/li>\n<li>Factor ONE: +30.9<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-0b1235e5-9cec-4437-bb22-af497397f03a\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VhxEZ5RfzhtW8f7ouTsa2X-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VhxEZ5RfzhtW8f7ouTsa2X-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VhxEZ5RfzhtW8f7ouTsa2X-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VhxEZ5RfzhtW8f7ouTsa2X-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VhxEZ5RfzhtW8f7ouTsa2X-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/VhxEZ5RfzhtW8f7ouTsa2X-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Not many photos exist of me with the new bike yet, so here&#8217;s one from my bike fit. <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-early-review\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Early review<\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-0e0dc0b8-182b-4fa3-b0be-057dd294fe3f\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">At the time of publishing, I still want to put more miles through the Tarmac SL9 (and put it in a wind tunnel) before I write a full review, but having ridden the SL6, SL7, SL8 and SL9, (as well as the Venge Vias, Venge, Roubaix, Allez, old and new Aethos and probably a few I&#8217;ve forgotten over the years), I can confidently say the SL9 retains the well-loved Tarmac handling and ride feel.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">That&#8217;s not to say it&#8217;s exactly the same though.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Firstly, an important caveat. I am now a proud father, and two things have happened since January when our son was born.<\/p>\n<ol start=\"1\" id=\"elk-6f956aa0-b76f-4ee3-a6dd-b14a5be16920\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">\n<li>I&#8217;ve not ridden as much as I normally would, so my fitness has tanked.<\/li>\n<li>My willingness to rail around corners has reduced as my sense of mortality has increased.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p id=\"elk-69b61485-a7a5-4c99-a31b-55cb95dd85b7\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The reason I mention this is that the perceived performance of a bike is quite correlated to my ability to ride it. It&#8217;s the &#8220;all bikes feel slow at altitude&#8221; dilemma, but framed differently.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Take 40 watts off my FTP, and bikes won&#8217;t feel as sprightly uphill, because my reference point of the SL8 is on legs I had two years ago. Nor will a bike feel as telepathic on descents. I&#8217;m comparing today&#8217;s apples against last year&#8217;s oranges.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Therefore, despite jumping onto the Tarmac SL8 in 2023 and immediately feeling like I could throw it into hairpins, that took around 4-5 hours of riding this time round, and only came on a fast descent of Coe, a spicy climb north of Morgan Hill. I was following a group of Specialized employees and locals that knew the roads inside out. Hanging off the back of the group to follow their lines helped me to judge the otherwise never-before-seen corners and let the bike shine.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And shine it did. It was stable, predictable and planted when you wanted it to hold a line around wider corners, but agile on the tighter corners and easy to accelerate back to speed on the other side of them. The SRAM Red brakes were reliable as ever for late braking into tight hairpins, and the wide tyres added a level of composure that really helped on rough and gritty roads I&#8217;d never ridden before.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The flare of the handlebars meant leverage wasn&#8217;t lost when you wanted it for those tiny steering inputs on fast descents, but the narrower spacing between the hoods was perfect for getting small in the slipstream when the roads straightened up or levelled off. It really was a fun experience that, without getting too sentimental, was one of those that reminds you why you love riding bikes so much.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">One thing that&#8217;s not affected by my fitness, however, is the comfort and ride feel, and the balanced quality that has long shone through in previous generation S-Works Tarmacs remains abundant here. It&#8217;s a lovely blend of snappy and punchy responsiveness under power, but smooth, stable and refined the rest of the time.<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-price-and-availability\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Price and availability<\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-2df34699-0eb4-4b9a-8116-ced6fb7991e8\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">For now, as mentioned, Specialized is only launching the S-Works model Tarmac SL9.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">When the lower-spec models will come is to be confirmed, but that at least simplifies your options if you want to buy one this side of the Tour de France.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-table-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-RWCIIBneHlMShSLAM6rxiYEOIZ9bY8nB\" class=\"slice-container table-wrapper table-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-RWCIIBneHlMShSLAM6rxiYEOIZ9bY8nB slice-container-table\">\n<div class=\"table__instruction\">Swipe to scroll horizontally<\/div>\n<div class=\"table__container\">\n<table class=\"table__wrapper table__wrapper--inbodyContent table__wrapper--sticky table__wrapper--divider\">\n<tbody class=\"table__body\">\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>S-Works Tarmac SL9 AXS<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>$14,000<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>\u20ac13,999<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>\u00a311,999<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>$21,500<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>S-Works Tarmac SL9 Di2<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>$13,500<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>\u20ac13,999<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>\u00a311,999<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>$20,500<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr class=\"table__body__row\">\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>S-Works Framesets (incl. Team Replica colours)<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>$6,000<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>\u20ac5,999<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>\u00a35,499<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<td class=\"table_body__data\" colspan=\"1\">\n<p>$9,500<\/p>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 class=\"article-body__section kiosq-b\" id=\"section-team-edition-colourways\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span>Team edition colourways<\/span><\/h2>\n<div id=\"slice-container-imageGallery-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-jIlimzXY9suHbB4f5esGAxXmPpsQ3vpc\" class=\"slice-container imageGallery-wrapper imageGallery-7CYBvHY7cnA9gqRQ2UeT6A-jIlimzXY9suHbB4f5esGAxXmPpsQ3vpc slice-container-imageGallery\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"inline-gallery first-slide-only\">\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__count\">Image 1 of 4<\/div>\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__items\">\n<div class=\"react-swipeable-view-container\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"false\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zuswd9GfzWXhtYHA5h7xLK.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">SD Worx-Protime<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZEyBsV7LD2d3444ErCm4QE.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">FDJ United-Suez<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f5R2SYu7QeU2Ub8Vgg8FBK.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">Soudal-QuickStep<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/neBw3KsPGrZsU6BKbezCbE.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/bikes\/win-fin-flow-fork-speed-sniffer-specialized-launches-fastest-road-bike-ever-made-in-the-s-works-tarmac-sl9\/&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-2560-80.png&#8221;] 1 Eurobike 2026: Five new bikes that caught my eye 2 Eurobike Tech Gallery: Unreleased gravel machines, crazy aero builds and futuristic concept bikes 3 &#8216;We did not design it to win a comparison table&#8217; &#8211; Look&#8217;s new race bike blends aero with real-world performance Bikes Win Fin, Flow Fork, Speed Sniffer: [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[226,68],"class_list":["post-2020258","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crawlmanager","tag-cyclingnews-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2020258","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=2020258"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2020258\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2020258"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2020258"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2020258"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}