2022 Specialized Tarmac SL6 Sport Road Bike - Carbon/Smoke

When Specialized developed the Tarmac Disc Road Bike, their goal wasn't just speed, it was speed everywhere. From long climbs and windy flats to Grand Tour stages and local fondos, they designed a race bike to excel in all conditions. The result is a complete race machine. Specialized began with their Rider-First Engineered™ frame, ensuring a perfectly-tuned ride quality for every size. They incorporated advanced aero technology, making the new Tarmac 30 seconds faster over 40km compared to the Tarmac SL5, and made it 20% lighter. The result is a bike that’s lighter, faster, and better handling than ever.

This Tarmac model features a reliable spec list, including Shimano 105 mechanical shifting, quick-stopping hydraulic disc brakes, durable DT R470 Disc wheels, and the popular Power saddle.

For the Tarmac's construction, Specialized utilised advanced aerospace composite optimisation software to revolutionise the layup of their new FACT 9r carbon. The frame is crafted from 500 individual pieces, creating seven different sizes with consistent ride quality thanks to the Rider-First Engineered™ approach. Each frame size has a unique layup schedule, with specific ply arrangements, orientations, material quantities, and sometimes exclusive carbon thicknesses and types to ensure every frame meets performance targets.

Aerodynamics is crucial for speed, and the Tarmac incorporates aero features without compromising weight. Through meticulous development, Specialized identified areas where they could add aerodynamic improvements for free, such as a new fork shape and dropped seatstays with aero tubes. The result is a Tarmac that’s approximately 30 seconds faster over 40km.

The updated geometry is based on extensive Retül data and professional rider feedback, leading to the development of a Performance Road Geometry. This geometry combines a responsive front end with a short wheelbase, delivering instantaneous response and optimal power transfer.