{"id":2112740,"date":"2026-08-25T16:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-08-25T13:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2112740"},"modified":"2026-08-25T16:00:00","modified_gmt":"2026-08-25T13:00:00","slug":"specialized-reveals-s-level-tarmac-sl9-says-it-exceeds-every-competing-race-bike-in-its-class","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2112740","title":{"rendered":"Specialized reveals &#8216;S-Level&#8217; Tarmac SL9, says it &#8216;exceeds every competing race bike in its class&#8217;"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/94SUwnuBWNDgpc3ppuY7wU-1571-80.jpg&#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\/XNnoCK9fvEC2ZxkX32MW8K-160-80.png.webp 160w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/XNnoCK9fvEC2ZxkX32MW8K-80-80.png.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                                    Spotted: New Shimano Dura-Ace R9300 groupset breaks cover at La Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a\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\/4w9VAB8zB7H383TeW67tvS-160-80.jpg.webp 160w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4w9VAB8zB7H383TeW67tvS-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\">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                                    Van Rysel goes big on gravel with two new launches across both race and adventure\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\/TvYpj7PihoyksjVUH6f5FY-160-80.jpg.webp 160w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/TvYpj7PihoyksjVUH6f5FY-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                                    Van Rysel RCR-G review: A race ready gravel bike that flourishes at speed and on smooth gravel\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<li>\nRoad Bikes\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>Specialized reveals &#8216;S-Level&#8217; Tarmac SL9, says it &#8216;exceeds every competing race bike in its class&#8217;<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"vds-byline-block flex flex-row flex-nowrap my-1.5 gap-2 text-left items-start justify-start\" data-component-name=\"Article:BylineBlock\">\n<p>News<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-auto vds-simple-byline\"><span class=\"inline-block vds-author\"><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nPaul Norman <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex gap-1 vds-byline-with-avatar__meta\"><span class=\"vds-date block font-normal tracking-normal normal-case text-xs\"><br \/>\nPublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-08-25T16:00:00Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n25 August 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">SL9 upgrade now available across the full Tarmac line-up<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"text-gray-700 flex items-center mx-0 my-5 p-0 justify-start text-left\" 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-[color: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\/94SUwnuBWNDgpc3ppuY7wU-1571-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/94SUwnuBWNDgpc3ppuY7wU-1571-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/94SUwnuBWNDgpc3ppuY7wU-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/94SUwnuBWNDgpc3ppuY7wU-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/94SUwnuBWNDgpc3ppuY7wU-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/94SUwnuBWNDgpc3ppuY7wU-750-80.jpg.webp 750w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/94SUwnuBWNDgpc3ppuY7wU-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/94SUwnuBWNDgpc3ppuY7wU-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/94SUwnuBWNDgpc3ppuY7wU-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 600px, 100vw\" \/><figcaption class=\"font-article-copy text-(--image--text--color) font-article-copy mt-2\"><span class=\"caption-text font-article-copy\">The Specialized S-Level Tarmac SL9<\/span><span class=\"credit font-article-copy\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\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\">0<\/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-937c5820-9e04-11f1-9e92-074c4f961016\">If you wanted a Tarmac SL9 when Specialized announced the bike back in June, just ahead of the Tour de France, you\u2019d have needed deep pockets. That\u2019s because the Tarmac SL9 was only available in S-Works spec, built on Specialized\u2019s premium FACT 12r carbon, with top-tier components to boot.<\/p>\n<p>You can read a detailed breakdown of what\u2019s new with the SL9 update and Specialized\u2019s claimed four watts aero improvement in Josh&#8217;s S-Works Tarmac SL9 launch story.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-937c5820-9e04-11f1-9e92-074c4f961016-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">But if you&#8217;re not looking to spend north of \u00a310k\/$10k on your next bike, you&#8217;ll be pleased to know that the S-Works Tarmac SL9 has today been joined by less expensive Expert and Comp specs of the SL9, based on the FACT 10r carbon platform.<\/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\">Cyclingnews<\/span><\/span><\/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 for the first time, there\u2019s an S-Level Tarmac too, which pairs the FACT 10r frameset with top-spec groupset components from SRAM and Shimano. There&#8217;s not one equipped with the new Shimano Dura-Ace yet, though, despite the R9300 groupset leaking at the Vuelta.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-607f8d4a-9e07-11f1-9d16-d7c37a81b75e\" 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\/ZZ89BVCrmKreCaR2si4SWV-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZZ89BVCrmKreCaR2si4SWV-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZZ89BVCrmKreCaR2si4SWV-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZZ89BVCrmKreCaR2si4SWV-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZZ89BVCrmKreCaR2si4SWV-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZZ89BVCrmKreCaR2si4SWV-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\">There&#8217;s a choice of SRAM Red AXS or Dura-Ace groupset on the S-Level bike <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-607f8db8-9e07-11f1-8365-838053c84407\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">S-Level is a concept that Specialized first introduced in May with the S-Level Crux gravel bike, and essentially bolts quality components and a top-of-range groupset onto the less premium frameset. You get a bike with similar performance to the S-Works model, just a little heavier and for a lot less cash. Complete S-Level build weights start from a claimed 7.13kg versus 6.5kg for the S-Works bike, for example.<\/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\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-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\">The new Specialized Tarmac SL9 is making Tour de France headlines, but the outgoing SL8 model is now heavily discounted by up to 16%<\/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\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-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\">Win Fin, Flow Fork, Speed Sniffer: Specialized launches &#8216;fastest road bike ever made&#8217; in the S-Works Tarmac SL9<\/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\/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<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Specialized says that it is a replacement for its previous Pro spec level and claims it \u201cdelivers the closest experience to S-Works performance and exceeds every competing race bike in its class.&#8221;<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"a-little-more-weight-a-lot-less-cash-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">A little more weight, a lot less cash<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-607f8e26-9e07-11f1-b6b6-9381a0b8866f\" 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=\"caption-text\">Only the S-Works bike is fitted with the tapered S-Works Rapide Post seatpost <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-3661f5fe-9e05-11f1-9bfc-e1f7e989983f\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">While the S-Works frameset has a 687g claimed weight, the FACT 10r frame weighs a claimed 882g. It\u2019s paired with the same FACT 12r fork as used on the S-Works bike, but with stainless steel headset bearings in place of CeramicSpeed.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-7q3QZkh27D5dA8aXrtBrFU\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-7q3QZkh27D5dA8aXrtBrFU 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\">The complete S-Level frameset has a 1.64kg claimed weight and comes with a S-Works Tarmac SL8 seatpost carried over from the previous generation Tarmac, while the S-Works frameset weighs a claimed 1.39kg, including the new S-Works Rapide Post seatpost.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-607f8e94-9e07-11f1-9501-3d83b7f5550f\" 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\/cy2qGJWmiuLKdSs7mrwVXV-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cy2qGJWmiuLKdSs7mrwVXV-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cy2qGJWmiuLKdSs7mrwVXV-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cy2qGJWmiuLKdSs7mrwVXV-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cy2qGJWmiuLKdSs7mrwVXV-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cy2qGJWmiuLKdSs7mrwVXV-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\">Specialized fits the same Roval Rapide Cockpit one-piece bar\/stem to the S-Level bike as to the S-Works Tarmac SL9 <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-607f8ef8-9e07-11f1-ac6d-79228b0d923c\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Spec-wise, the S-Level Tarmac SL9 has the same one-piece Roval Rapide Cockpit as the S-Works bike and is equipped either with a Shimano Dura-Ace or SRAM Red AXS groupset. Both come with a dual-sided power meter, the in-series SRAM meter or 4iiii Precision Pro for Shimano.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The Roval CL III wheels are a tier down from the CLX III wheels fitted to the S-Works bike and the Power Pro Mirror saddle too is a step down from the S-Works Power saddle on the top spec bike.<\/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\/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-[#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\">But while the S-Works Tarmac SL9 retails for \u00a311,999 \/ $14,000 \/ \u20ac13,999 \/ AU$21,500 with Red AXS, the S-Level bike costs \u00a38,799 \/ $10,500 \/ \u20ac10,499 \/ AU$15,500 with the same groupset. Dura-Ace is a little cheaper in the US and Australia, the same price in Europe and the UK.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"expert-and-comp-tarmac-sl9-specs-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Expert and Comp Tarmac SL9 specs<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-607f8f5c-9e07-11f1-8215-c38e77559acf\" 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\/zCT2c8zpQSSZZdoy4CZ5AD-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zCT2c8zpQSSZZdoy4CZ5AD-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zCT2c8zpQSSZZdoy4CZ5AD-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zCT2c8zpQSSZZdoy4CZ5AD-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zCT2c8zpQSSZZdoy4CZ5AD-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zCT2c8zpQSSZZdoy4CZ5AD-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\">The Expert spec has a separate alloy bar and stem and the SL8 seatpost, as does the Comp <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-937c5992-9e04-11f1-8753-6fa395552984\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">In addition, there are Expert and Comp-level Tarmac SL9 specs announced, equipped with a two-piece alloy bar and stem.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The Expert spec comes with either a SRAM Force AXS groupset with 48\/35t chainrings and a 10-36t cassette or Shimano Ultegra with a semi-compact. Neither include a power meter.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It\u2019s fitted with Roval C38 carbon wheels and the S-Works Tarmac SL8 seatpost. Specialized claims a size 56 bike weighs 7.55kg.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The Tarmac SL9 Expert is priced at \u00a35,999 \/ $7,000 \/ \u20ac6,999 \/ AU$10,200 with Force AXS, again with a slightly lower price for the Shimano spec in the US and Australia.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The Tarmac SL9 Comp is equipped either with a SRAM Rival AXS or Shimano 105 Di2 groupset. Also specced are DT Swiss R470 alloy rims on Specialized hubs and the S-Works Tarmac SL8 seatpost.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Specialized claims an 8.14kg weight for a size 56 bike in Rival AXS spec and 8.21kg with 105 Di2. The Comp is priced at \u00a33,999 \/ $4,500 \/ \u20ac4,499 \/ AU$7,200 in both SRAM and Shimano specs.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-7q3QZkh27D5dA8aXrtBrFU\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-7q3QZkh27D5dA8aXrtBrFU 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__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">Paul Norman<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>Paul has been on two wheels since he was in his teens and he&#8217;s spent much of the time since writing about bikes and the associated tech. He&#8217;s a road cyclist at heart but his adventurous curiosity means Paul has been riding gravel since well before it was cool, adapting his cyclo-cross bike to ride all-day off-road epics and putting road kit to the ultimate test along the way.\u00a0Paul has contributed to Cyclingnews&#8217; tech coverage for a few years, helping to maintain the freshness of our buying guides and deals content, as well as writing a number of our voucher code pages.\u00a0<\/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\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-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\">The new Specialized Tarmac SL9 is making Tour de France headlines, but the outgoing SL8 model is now heavily discounted by up to 16%<\/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\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-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\">Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Win Fin, Flow Fork, Speed Sniffer: Specialized launches &#8216;fastest road bike ever made&#8217; in the S-Works Tarmac SL9<\/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\/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\/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 Road 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\/yFEiXFdXqBk2cgzqXeJLwK-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yFEiXFdXqBk2cgzqXeJLwK-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yFEiXFdXqBk2cgzqXeJLwK-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yFEiXFdXqBk2cgzqXeJLwK-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yFEiXFdXqBk2cgzqXeJLwK-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\">Early access: Watch our Incolor SSR review before it goes live<\/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\/pSxPzakkgfpiC7zJ2TU26V-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pSxPzakkgfpiC7zJ2TU26V-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pSxPzakkgfpiC7zJ2TU26V-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pSxPzakkgfpiC7zJ2TU26V-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pSxPzakkgfpiC7zJ2TU26V-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\">IsoSpeed decoupled: Trek bins off comfort-enhancing tech with all-new Domane<\/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\/kPAyJ7cWSmtRPjmVoVHK5D-769-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kPAyJ7cWSmtRPjmVoVHK5D-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kPAyJ7cWSmtRPjmVoVHK5D-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kPAyJ7cWSmtRPjmVoVHK5D-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kPAyJ7cWSmtRPjmVoVHK5D-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\">The new Cube Litening C:68X could be the most competitively priced race bike on the market<\/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\/PujLT23HpeTkatbWjpvwLk-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PujLT23HpeTkatbWjpvwLk-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PujLT23HpeTkatbWjpvwLk-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PujLT23HpeTkatbWjpvwLk-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PujLT23HpeTkatbWjpvwLk-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\">Early access: Cyclingnews subscribers can watch our Factor One review before anyone else<\/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\/dyiMirtfoqNdMdnxyKG87H-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dyiMirtfoqNdMdnxyKG87H-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dyiMirtfoqNdMdnxyKG87H-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dyiMirtfoqNdMdnxyKG87H-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dyiMirtfoqNdMdnxyKG87H-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\">What experienced cyclists notice first about a high-performance road bike<\/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\/JGuJ4p6pajYHAuJgUyfcWJ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JGuJ4p6pajYHAuJgUyfcWJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JGuJ4p6pajYHAuJgUyfcWJ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JGuJ4p6pajYHAuJgUyfcWJ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JGuJ4p6pajYHAuJgUyfcWJ-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\">Factor One review: A member-exclusive deep dive into the most talked-about aero bike of the year<\/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 News<\/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\/TB8gQcN9segZZg3MDEhDed-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/TB8gQcN9segZZg3MDEhDed-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/TB8gQcN9segZZg3MDEhDed-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/TB8gQcN9segZZg3MDEhDed-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/TB8gQcN9segZZg3MDEhDed-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\">Last over the line, injured Cian Uijtdebroeks shows strain of fighting on at Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a<\/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\/JLYbQXUaN585xQmKbegacC-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JLYbQXUaN585xQmKbegacC-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JLYbQXUaN585xQmKbegacC-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JLYbQXUaN585xQmKbegacC-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JLYbQXUaN585xQmKbegacC-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 has made a big statement&#8217; &#8211; UAE Team Emirates-XRG cautiously delighted with Poga\u010dar&#8217;s knock-out Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a stage win<\/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\/mTCv9V3z6mz9pLLTqshU2V-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mTCv9V3z6mz9pLLTqshU2V-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mTCv9V3z6mz9pLLTqshU2V-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mTCv9V3z6mz9pLLTqshU2V-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mTCv9V3z6mz9pLLTqshU2V-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;I&#8217;m not thinking about who is the best&#8217; &#8211; Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a dominator Tadej Poga\u010dar sidesteps debate over place in cycling history<\/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\/7QNseYssTw8Ngw2XrSepyk-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7QNseYssTw8Ngw2XrSepyk-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7QNseYssTw8Ngw2XrSepyk-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7QNseYssTw8Ngw2XrSepyk-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7QNseYssTw8Ngw2XrSepyk-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;There\u2019s not much you can do&#8217; \u2013 Sepp Kuss misses his plan to be with Poga\u010dar but puts himself in podium contention on first Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a mountain test<\/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\/224zLADqoynLjoP8rH9AiD-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/224zLADqoynLjoP8rH9AiD-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/224zLADqoynLjoP8rH9AiD-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/224zLADqoynLjoP8rH9AiD-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/224zLADqoynLjoP8rH9AiD-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;It\u2019s not normal. I\u2019m actually a bit surprised today&#8217; \u2013\u00a020-year-old Jarno Widar impresses with second place on first-ever Grand Tour mountain stage at Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a<\/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\/AEmJP2KMFNuJzD2fbYc9QJ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AEmJP2KMFNuJzD2fbYc9QJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AEmJP2KMFNuJzD2fbYc9QJ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AEmJP2KMFNuJzD2fbYc9QJ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AEmJP2KMFNuJzD2fbYc9QJ-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;I was up all night&#8217; \u2013\u00a0Oscar Onley hit by another setback but comes through first Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a GC showdown<\/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 class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice\">\n<section class=\"popular-box\" data-component-name=\"Slice:PopularBox\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">\nLATEST ARTICLES\n<\/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>\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/TB8gQcN9segZZg3MDEhDed-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/TB8gQcN9segZZg3MDEhDed-720-80.jpg.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/TB8gQcN9segZZg3MDEhDed-640-80.jpg.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/TB8gQcN9segZZg3MDEhDed-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/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\">\n<p>Last over the line, injured Cian Uijtdebroeks shows strain of fighting on at Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a<\/p>\n<\/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\">\n<p>What now for the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a? After Tadej Poga\u010dar&#8217;s trademark display of GC power, a normally unpredictable race heads into uncharted territory &#8211; Analysis<\/p>\n<\/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\">\n<p>&#8216;Tadej has made a big statement&#8217; &#8211; UAE Team Emirates-XRG cautiously delighted with Poga\u010dar&#8217;s knock-out Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a stage win<\/p>\n<\/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\">\n<p>Early access: Watch our Incolor SSR review before it goes live<\/p>\n<\/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\">\n<p>&#8216;I&#8217;m not thinking about who is the best&#8217; &#8211; Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a dominator Tadej Poga\u010dar sidesteps debate over place in cycling history<\/p>\n<\/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<li>\nRoad Bikes\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>Specialized reveals &#8216;S-Level&#8217; Tarmac SL9, says it &#8216;exceeds every competing race bike in its class&#8217;<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"vds-byline-block flex flex-row flex-nowrap my-1.5 gap-2 text-left items-start justify-start\" data-component-name=\"Article:BylineBlock\">\n<p>News<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-auto vds-simple-byline\"><span class=\"inline-block vds-author\"><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nPaul Norman <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex gap-1 vds-byline-with-avatar__meta\"><span class=\"vds-date block font-normal tracking-normal normal-case text-xs\"><br \/>\nPublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-08-25T16:00:00Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n25 August 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">SL9 upgrade now available across the full Tarmac line-up<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"text-gray-700 flex items-center mx-0 my-5 p-0 justify-start text-left\" 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-[color: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\/94SUwnuBWNDgpc3ppuY7wU-1571-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/94SUwnuBWNDgpc3ppuY7wU-1571-80.jpg.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/94SUwnuBWNDgpc3ppuY7wU-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/94SUwnuBWNDgpc3ppuY7wU-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/94SUwnuBWNDgpc3ppuY7wU-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/94SUwnuBWNDgpc3ppuY7wU-750-80.jpg.webp 750w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/94SUwnuBWNDgpc3ppuY7wU-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/94SUwnuBWNDgpc3ppuY7wU-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/94SUwnuBWNDgpc3ppuY7wU-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 600px, 100vw\" \/><figcaption class=\"font-article-copy text-(--image--text--color) font-article-copy mt-2\"><span class=\"caption-text font-article-copy\">The Specialized S-Level Tarmac SL9<\/span><span class=\"credit font-article-copy\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\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\">0<\/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-937c5820-9e04-11f1-9e92-074c4f961016\">If you wanted a Tarmac SL9 when Specialized announced the bike back in June, just ahead of the Tour de France, you\u2019d have needed deep pockets. That\u2019s because the Tarmac SL9 was only available in S-Works spec, built on Specialized\u2019s premium FACT 12r carbon, with top-tier components to boot.<\/p>\n<p>You can read a detailed breakdown of what\u2019s new with the SL9 update and Specialized\u2019s claimed four watts aero improvement in Josh&#8217;s S-Works Tarmac SL9 launch story.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-937c5820-9e04-11f1-9e92-074c4f961016-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">But if you&#8217;re not looking to spend north of \u00a310k\/$10k on your next bike, you&#8217;ll be pleased to know that the S-Works Tarmac SL9 has today been joined by less expensive Expert and Comp specs of the SL9, based on the FACT 10r carbon platform.<\/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\">Cyclingnews<\/span><\/span><\/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 for the first time, there\u2019s an S-Level Tarmac too, which pairs the FACT 10r frameset with top-spec groupset components from SRAM and Shimano. There&#8217;s not one equipped with the new Shimano Dura-Ace yet, though, despite the R9300 groupset leaking at the Vuelta.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-607f8d4a-9e07-11f1-9d16-d7c37a81b75e\" 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\/ZZ89BVCrmKreCaR2si4SWV-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZZ89BVCrmKreCaR2si4SWV-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZZ89BVCrmKreCaR2si4SWV-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZZ89BVCrmKreCaR2si4SWV-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZZ89BVCrmKreCaR2si4SWV-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZZ89BVCrmKreCaR2si4SWV-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\">There&#8217;s a choice of SRAM Red AXS or Dura-Ace groupset on the S-Level bike <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-607f8db8-9e07-11f1-8365-838053c84407\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">S-Level is a concept that Specialized first introduced in May with the S-Level Crux gravel bike, and essentially bolts quality components and a top-of-range groupset onto the less premium frameset. You get a bike with similar performance to the S-Works model, just a little heavier and for a lot less cash. Complete S-Level build weights start from a claimed 7.13kg versus 6.5kg for the S-Works bike, for example.<\/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\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-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\">The new Specialized Tarmac SL9 is making Tour de France headlines, but the outgoing SL8 model is now heavily discounted by up to 16%<\/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\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-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\">Win Fin, Flow Fork, Speed Sniffer: Specialized launches &#8216;fastest road bike ever made&#8217; in the S-Works Tarmac SL9<\/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\/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<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Specialized says that it is a replacement for its previous Pro spec level and claims it \u201cdelivers the closest experience to S-Works performance and exceeds every competing race bike in its class.&#8221;<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"a-little-more-weight-a-lot-less-cash-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">A little more weight, a lot less cash<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-607f8e26-9e07-11f1-b6b6-9381a0b8866f\" 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=\"caption-text\">Only the S-Works bike is fitted with the tapered S-Works Rapide Post seatpost <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-3661f5fe-9e05-11f1-9bfc-e1f7e989983f\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">While the S-Works frameset has a 687g claimed weight, the FACT 10r frame weighs a claimed 882g. It\u2019s paired with the same FACT 12r fork as used on the S-Works bike, but with stainless steel headset bearings in place of CeramicSpeed.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-7q3QZkh27D5dA8aXrtBrFU\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-7q3QZkh27D5dA8aXrtBrFU 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\">The complete S-Level frameset has a 1.64kg claimed weight and comes with a S-Works Tarmac SL8 seatpost carried over from the previous generation Tarmac, while the S-Works frameset weighs a claimed 1.39kg, including the new S-Works Rapide Post seatpost.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-607f8e94-9e07-11f1-9501-3d83b7f5550f\" 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\/cy2qGJWmiuLKdSs7mrwVXV-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cy2qGJWmiuLKdSs7mrwVXV-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cy2qGJWmiuLKdSs7mrwVXV-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cy2qGJWmiuLKdSs7mrwVXV-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cy2qGJWmiuLKdSs7mrwVXV-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cy2qGJWmiuLKdSs7mrwVXV-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\">Specialized fits the same Roval Rapide Cockpit one-piece bar\/stem to the S-Level bike as to the S-Works Tarmac SL9 <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-607f8ef8-9e07-11f1-ac6d-79228b0d923c\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Spec-wise, the S-Level Tarmac SL9 has the same one-piece Roval Rapide Cockpit as the S-Works bike and is equipped either with a Shimano Dura-Ace or SRAM Red AXS groupset. Both come with a dual-sided power meter, the in-series SRAM meter or 4iiii Precision Pro for Shimano.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The Roval CL III wheels are a tier down from the CLX III wheels fitted to the S-Works bike and the Power Pro Mirror saddle too is a step down from the S-Works Power saddle on the top spec bike.<\/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\/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-[#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\">But while the S-Works Tarmac SL9 retails for \u00a311,999 \/ $14,000 \/ \u20ac13,999 \/ AU$21,500 with Red AXS, the S-Level bike costs \u00a38,799 \/ $10,500 \/ \u20ac10,499 \/ AU$15,500 with the same groupset. Dura-Ace is a little cheaper in the US and Australia, the same price in Europe and the UK.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"expert-and-comp-tarmac-sl9-specs-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Expert and Comp Tarmac SL9 specs<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-607f8f5c-9e07-11f1-8215-c38e77559acf\" 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\/zCT2c8zpQSSZZdoy4CZ5AD-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zCT2c8zpQSSZZdoy4CZ5AD-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zCT2c8zpQSSZZdoy4CZ5AD-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zCT2c8zpQSSZZdoy4CZ5AD-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zCT2c8zpQSSZZdoy4CZ5AD-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zCT2c8zpQSSZZdoy4CZ5AD-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\">The Expert spec has a separate alloy bar and stem and the SL8 seatpost, as does the Comp <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-937c5992-9e04-11f1-8753-6fa395552984\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">In addition, there are Expert and Comp-level Tarmac SL9 specs announced, equipped with a two-piece alloy bar and stem.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The Expert spec comes with either a SRAM Force AXS groupset with 48\/35t chainrings and a 10-36t cassette or Shimano Ultegra with a semi-compact. Neither include a power meter.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It\u2019s fitted with Roval C38 carbon wheels and the S-Works Tarmac SL8 seatpost. Specialized claims a size 56 bike weighs 7.55kg.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The Tarmac SL9 Expert is priced at \u00a35,999 \/ $7,000 \/ \u20ac6,999 \/ AU$10,200 with Force AXS, again with a slightly lower price for the Shimano spec in the US and Australia.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The Tarmac SL9 Comp is equipped either with a SRAM Rival AXS or Shimano 105 Di2 groupset. Also specced are DT Swiss R470 alloy rims on Specialized hubs and the S-Works Tarmac SL8 seatpost.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Specialized claims an 8.14kg weight for a size 56 bike in Rival AXS spec and 8.21kg with 105 Di2. The Comp is priced at \u00a33,999 \/ $4,500 \/ \u20ac4,499 \/ AU$7,200 in both SRAM and Shimano specs.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-7q3QZkh27D5dA8aXrtBrFU\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-7q3QZkh27D5dA8aXrtBrFU 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__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">Paul Norman<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>Paul has been on two wheels since he was in his teens and he&#8217;s spent much of the time since writing about bikes and the associated tech. He&#8217;s a road cyclist at heart but his adventurous curiosity means Paul has been riding gravel since well before it was cool, adapting his cyclo-cross bike to ride all-day off-road epics and putting road kit to the ultimate test along the way.\u00a0Paul has contributed to Cyclingnews&#8217; tech coverage for a few years, helping to maintain the freshness of our buying guides and deals content, as well as writing a number of our voucher code pages.\u00a0<\/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\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-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\">The new Specialized Tarmac SL9 is making Tour de France headlines, but the outgoing SL8 model is now heavily discounted by up to 16%<\/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\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-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\">Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Win Fin, Flow Fork, Speed Sniffer: Specialized launches &#8216;fastest road bike ever made&#8217; in the S-Works Tarmac SL9<\/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\/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\/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 Road 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\/yFEiXFdXqBk2cgzqXeJLwK-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yFEiXFdXqBk2cgzqXeJLwK-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yFEiXFdXqBk2cgzqXeJLwK-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yFEiXFdXqBk2cgzqXeJLwK-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yFEiXFdXqBk2cgzqXeJLwK-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\">Early access: Watch our Incolor SSR review before it goes live<\/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\/pSxPzakkgfpiC7zJ2TU26V-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pSxPzakkgfpiC7zJ2TU26V-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pSxPzakkgfpiC7zJ2TU26V-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pSxPzakkgfpiC7zJ2TU26V-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pSxPzakkgfpiC7zJ2TU26V-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\">IsoSpeed decoupled: Trek bins off comfort-enhancing tech with all-new Domane<\/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\/kPAyJ7cWSmtRPjmVoVHK5D-769-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kPAyJ7cWSmtRPjmVoVHK5D-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kPAyJ7cWSmtRPjmVoVHK5D-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kPAyJ7cWSmtRPjmVoVHK5D-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/kPAyJ7cWSmtRPjmVoVHK5D-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\">The new Cube Litening C:68X could be the most competitively priced race bike on the market<\/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\/PujLT23HpeTkatbWjpvwLk-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PujLT23HpeTkatbWjpvwLk-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PujLT23HpeTkatbWjpvwLk-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PujLT23HpeTkatbWjpvwLk-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PujLT23HpeTkatbWjpvwLk-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\">Early access: Cyclingnews subscribers can watch our Factor One review before anyone else<\/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\/dyiMirtfoqNdMdnxyKG87H-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dyiMirtfoqNdMdnxyKG87H-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dyiMirtfoqNdMdnxyKG87H-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dyiMirtfoqNdMdnxyKG87H-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dyiMirtfoqNdMdnxyKG87H-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\">What experienced cyclists notice first about a high-performance road bike<\/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\/JGuJ4p6pajYHAuJgUyfcWJ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JGuJ4p6pajYHAuJgUyfcWJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JGuJ4p6pajYHAuJgUyfcWJ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JGuJ4p6pajYHAuJgUyfcWJ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JGuJ4p6pajYHAuJgUyfcWJ-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\">Factor One review: A member-exclusive deep dive into the most talked-about aero bike of the year<\/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 News<\/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\/TB8gQcN9segZZg3MDEhDed-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/TB8gQcN9segZZg3MDEhDed-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/TB8gQcN9segZZg3MDEhDed-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/TB8gQcN9segZZg3MDEhDed-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/TB8gQcN9segZZg3MDEhDed-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\">Last over the line, injured Cian Uijtdebroeks shows strain of fighting on at Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a<\/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\/JLYbQXUaN585xQmKbegacC-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JLYbQXUaN585xQmKbegacC-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JLYbQXUaN585xQmKbegacC-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JLYbQXUaN585xQmKbegacC-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JLYbQXUaN585xQmKbegacC-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 has made a big statement&#8217; &#8211; UAE Team Emirates-XRG cautiously delighted with Poga\u010dar&#8217;s knock-out Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a stage win<\/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\/mTCv9V3z6mz9pLLTqshU2V-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mTCv9V3z6mz9pLLTqshU2V-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mTCv9V3z6mz9pLLTqshU2V-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mTCv9V3z6mz9pLLTqshU2V-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mTCv9V3z6mz9pLLTqshU2V-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;I&#8217;m not thinking about who is the best&#8217; &#8211; Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a dominator Tadej Poga\u010dar sidesteps debate over place in cycling history<\/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\/7QNseYssTw8Ngw2XrSepyk-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7QNseYssTw8Ngw2XrSepyk-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7QNseYssTw8Ngw2XrSepyk-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7QNseYssTw8Ngw2XrSepyk-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/7QNseYssTw8Ngw2XrSepyk-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;There\u2019s not much you can do&#8217; \u2013 Sepp Kuss misses his plan to be with Poga\u010dar but puts himself in podium contention on first Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a mountain test<\/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\/224zLADqoynLjoP8rH9AiD-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/224zLADqoynLjoP8rH9AiD-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/224zLADqoynLjoP8rH9AiD-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/224zLADqoynLjoP8rH9AiD-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/224zLADqoynLjoP8rH9AiD-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;It\u2019s not normal. I\u2019m actually a bit surprised today&#8217; \u2013\u00a020-year-old Jarno Widar impresses with second place on first-ever Grand Tour mountain stage at Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a<\/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\/AEmJP2KMFNuJzD2fbYc9QJ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AEmJP2KMFNuJzD2fbYc9QJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AEmJP2KMFNuJzD2fbYc9QJ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AEmJP2KMFNuJzD2fbYc9QJ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AEmJP2KMFNuJzD2fbYc9QJ-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;I was up all night&#8217; \u2013\u00a0Oscar Onley hit by another setback but comes through first Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a GC showdown<\/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 class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice\">\n<section class=\"popular-box\" data-component-name=\"Slice:PopularBox\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">\nLATEST ARTICLES\n<\/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>\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/TB8gQcN9segZZg3MDEhDed-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/TB8gQcN9segZZg3MDEhDed-720-80.jpg.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/TB8gQcN9segZZg3MDEhDed-640-80.jpg.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/TB8gQcN9segZZg3MDEhDed-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/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\">\n<p>Last over the line, injured Cian Uijtdebroeks shows strain of fighting on at Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a<\/p>\n<\/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\">\n<p>What now for the Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a? After Tadej Poga\u010dar&#8217;s trademark display of GC power, a normally unpredictable race heads into uncharted territory &#8211; Analysis<\/p>\n<\/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\">\n<p>&#8216;Tadej has made a big statement&#8217; &#8211; UAE Team Emirates-XRG cautiously delighted with Poga\u010dar&#8217;s knock-out Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a stage win<\/p>\n<\/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\">\n<p>Early access: Watch our Incolor SSR review before it goes live<\/p>\n<\/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\">\n<p>&#8216;I&#8217;m not thinking about who is the best&#8217; &#8211; Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a dominator Tadej Poga\u010dar sidesteps debate over place in cycling history<\/p>\n<\/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<li>\nRoad Bikes\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>Specialized reveals &#8216;S-Level&#8217; Tarmac SL9, says it &#8216;exceeds every competing race bike in its class&#8217;<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"vds-byline-block flex flex-row flex-nowrap my-1.5 gap-2 text-left items-start justify-start\" data-component-name=\"Article:BylineBlock\">\n<p>News<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-auto vds-simple-byline\"><span class=\"inline-block vds-author\"><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nPaul Norman <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex gap-1 vds-byline-with-avatar__meta\"><span class=\"vds-date block font-normal tracking-normal normal-case text-xs\"><br \/>\nPublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-08-25T16:00:00Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n25 August 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">SL9 upgrade now available across the full Tarmac line-up<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"text-gray-700 flex items-center mx-0 my-5 p-0 justify-start text-left\" 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-[color: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\">0<\/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-937c5820-9e04-11f1-9e92-074c4f961016\">If you wanted a Tarmac SL9 when Specialized announced the bike back in June, just ahead of the Tour de France, you\u2019d have needed deep pockets. That\u2019s because the Tarmac SL9 was only available in S-Works spec, built on Specialized\u2019s premium FACT 12r carbon, with top-tier components to boot.<\/p>\n<p>You can read a detailed breakdown of what\u2019s new with the SL9 update and Specialized\u2019s claimed four watts aero improvement in Josh&#8217;s S-Works Tarmac SL9 launch story.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-937c5820-9e04-11f1-9e92-074c4f961016-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">But if you&#8217;re not looking to spend north of \u00a310k\/$10k on your next bike, you&#8217;ll be pleased to know that the S-Works Tarmac SL9 has today been joined by less expensive Expert and Comp specs of the SL9, based on the FACT 10r carbon platform.<\/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\">Cyclingnews<\/span><\/span><\/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 for the first time, there\u2019s an S-Level Tarmac too, which pairs the FACT 10r frameset with top-spec groupset components from SRAM and Shimano. There&#8217;s not one equipped with the new Shimano Dura-Ace yet, though, despite the R9300 groupset leaking at the Vuelta.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-607f8d4a-9e07-11f1-9d16-d7c37a81b75e\" 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\/ZZ89BVCrmKreCaR2si4SWV-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZZ89BVCrmKreCaR2si4SWV-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZZ89BVCrmKreCaR2si4SWV-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZZ89BVCrmKreCaR2si4SWV-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZZ89BVCrmKreCaR2si4SWV-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZZ89BVCrmKreCaR2si4SWV-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\">There&#8217;s a choice of SRAM Red AXS or Dura-Ace groupset on the S-Level bike <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-607f8db8-9e07-11f1-8365-838053c84407\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">S-Level is a concept that Specialized first introduced in May with the S-Level Crux gravel bike, and essentially bolts quality components and a top-of-range groupset onto the less premium frameset. You get a bike with similar performance to the S-Works model, just a little heavier and for a lot less cash. Complete S-Level build weights start from a claimed 7.13kg versus 6.5kg for the S-Works bike, for example.<\/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\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pqEQoHtLAhyTh3pmVCNUCk-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\">The new Specialized Tarmac SL9 is making Tour de France headlines, but the outgoing SL8 model is now heavily discounted by up to 16%<\/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\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/YzVReE7BYHQc5qqJbJxp5Y-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\">Win Fin, Flow Fork, Speed Sniffer: Specialized launches &#8216;fastest road bike ever made&#8217; in the S-Works Tarmac SL9<\/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\/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<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Specialized says that it is a replacement for its previous Pro spec level and claims it \u201cdelivers the closest experience to S-Works performance and exceeds every competing race bike in its class.&#8221;<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"a-little-more-weight-a-lot-less-cash-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">A little more weight, a lot less cash<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-607f8e26-9e07-11f1-b6b6-9381a0b8866f\" 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=\"caption-text\">Only the S-Works bike is fitted with the tapered S-Works Rapide Post seatpost <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-3661f5fe-9e05-11f1-9bfc-e1f7e989983f\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">While the S-Works frameset has a 687g claimed weight, the FACT 10r frame weighs a claimed 882g. It\u2019s paired with the same FACT 12r fork as used on the S-Works bike, but with stainless steel headset bearings in place of CeramicSpeed.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-7q3QZkh27D5dA8aXrtBrFU\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-7q3QZkh27D5dA8aXrtBrFU 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\">The complete S-Level frameset has a 1.64kg claimed weight and comes with a S-Works Tarmac SL8 seatpost carried over from the previous generation Tarmac, while the S-Works frameset weighs a claimed 1.39kg, including the new S-Works Rapide Post seatpost.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-607f8e94-9e07-11f1-9501-3d83b7f5550f\" 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\/cy2qGJWmiuLKdSs7mrwVXV-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cy2qGJWmiuLKdSs7mrwVXV-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cy2qGJWmiuLKdSs7mrwVXV-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cy2qGJWmiuLKdSs7mrwVXV-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cy2qGJWmiuLKdSs7mrwVXV-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cy2qGJWmiuLKdSs7mrwVXV-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\">Specialized fits the same Roval Rapide Cockpit one-piece bar\/stem to the S-Level bike as to the S-Works Tarmac SL9 <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-607f8ef8-9e07-11f1-ac6d-79228b0d923c\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Spec-wise, the S-Level Tarmac SL9 has the same one-piece Roval Rapide Cockpit as the S-Works bike and is equipped either with a Shimano Dura-Ace or SRAM Red AXS groupset. Both come with a dual-sided power meter, the in-series SRAM meter or 4iiii Precision Pro for Shimano.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The Roval CL III wheels are a tier down from the CLX III wheels fitted to the S-Works bike and the Power Pro Mirror saddle too is a step down from the S-Works Power saddle on the top spec bike.<\/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\/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-[#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\">But while the S-Works Tarmac SL9 retails for \u00a311,999 \/ $14,000 \/ \u20ac13,999 \/ AU$21,500 with Red AXS, the S-Level bike costs \u00a38,799 \/ $10,500 \/ \u20ac10,499 \/ AU$15,500 with the same groupset. Dura-Ace is a little cheaper in the US and Australia, the same price in Europe and the UK.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"expert-and-comp-tarmac-sl9-specs-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Expert and Comp Tarmac SL9 specs<\/h2>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-607f8f5c-9e07-11f1-8215-c38e77559acf\" 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\/zCT2c8zpQSSZZdoy4CZ5AD-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zCT2c8zpQSSZZdoy4CZ5AD-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zCT2c8zpQSSZZdoy4CZ5AD-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zCT2c8zpQSSZZdoy4CZ5AD-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zCT2c8zpQSSZZdoy4CZ5AD-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/zCT2c8zpQSSZZdoy4CZ5AD-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\">The Expert spec has a separate alloy bar and stem and the SL8 seatpost, as does the Comp <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Specialized)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-937c5992-9e04-11f1-8753-6fa395552984\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">In addition, there are Expert and Comp-level Tarmac SL9 specs announced, equipped with a two-piece alloy bar and stem.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The Expert spec comes with either a SRAM Force AXS groupset with 48\/35t chainrings and a 10-36t cassette or Shimano Ultegra with a semi-compact. Neither include a power meter.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">It\u2019s fitted with Roval C38 carbon wheels and the S-Works Tarmac SL8 seatpost. Specialized claims a size 56 bike weighs 7.55kg.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The Tarmac SL9 Expert is priced at \u00a35,999 \/ $7,000 \/ \u20ac6,999 \/ AU$10,200 with Force AXS, again with a slightly lower price for the Shimano spec in the US and Australia.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The Tarmac SL9 Comp is equipped either with a SRAM Rival AXS or Shimano 105 Di2 groupset. Also specced are DT Swiss R470 alloy rims on Specialized hubs and the S-Works Tarmac SL8 seatpost.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Specialized claims an 8.14kg weight for a size 56 bike in Rival AXS spec and 8.21kg with 105 Di2. The Comp is priced at \u00a33,999 \/ $4,500 \/ \u20ac4,499 \/ AU$7,200 in both SRAM and Shimano specs.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/bikes\/road\/specialized-reveals-s-level-tarmac-sl9-says-it-exceeds-every-competing-race-bike-in-its-class\/&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/94SUwnuBWNDgpc3ppuY7wU-1571-80.jpg&#8221;] 1 Spotted: New Shimano Dura-Ace R9300 groupset breaks cover at La Vuelta a Espa\u00f1a 2 Van Rysel goes big on gravel with two new launches across both race and adventure 3 Van Rysel RCR-G review: A race ready gravel bike that flourishes at speed and on smooth gravel Bikes Road Bikes Specialized [&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":[68],"class_list":["post-2112740","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-cyclingnews-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2112740","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=2112740"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2112740\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2112740"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2112740"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2112740"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}