There are two reasons for this: Firstly, the US manufacturer is equipping three high-calibre teams in 2022: Bora-Hansgrohe, Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl and TotalEnergies, which include such guarantors of victory as current world champion Julian Alaphilippe and sprint stars Mark Cavendish and Peter
Sagan. On the other hand, the S-Works Tarmac also comes very close to being the perfect competition road bike in technical terms. Because it combines low weight with good aerodynamics and comfort more uncompromisingly than any other road bike.
The Specialized S-Works Tarmac comes very close to being the perfect competition bike
Top score of 1.4 in the TOUR test (see TOUR 11/2020) is proof of this. With an aero value of 210 watts, it can stand up to many specialised aero racers, while the frame weight of around 850 grams is on a par with other lightweight models. Regardless of whether it's a high mountain stage or a sprint finish - the riders sit on perfect material in every racing situation. This also applies to the construction, which is identical for all teams. The Roval wheels developed by Specialized are up to 300 grams lighter than similar models from other suppliers. However, contrary to the current trend, they cannot be ridden with tubeless tyres, but only with a tube inserted. According to the manufacturer, the combination with Specialized Turbo tyres with a cotton carcass should nevertheless be the ideal compromise between weight, aerodynamics and rolling resistance.
Delivery problems with the Di2 twelve-speed groupset
Shifting and braking is done with Shimano's brand new Dura Ace Di2 twelve-speed groupsetAt the time of going to press, it was not yet certain whether all drivers would be able to start the first races with the ensemble. Delivery problems continue to delay the delivery of the parts, meaning that some teams will still have to start the training camp with the "old" eleven-speed gearbox were travelling.
Availability and price
Anyone who, given the convincing measured values S-Works Tarmac there is one piece of good news and two pieces of bad news. The good news is that you can buy the bike in exactly the same setup as the pros ride it. The bad news: The bike is currently completely sold out. And even if replenishments arrive in the shops, the dizzying price of 14,500 euros means that it is likely to remain a dream for most people.
Specialised S-Works Tarmac
- Price 14,500 euros
- Info www.specialized.com
- Aerodynamics 210 watts
- Complete weight 6.9 kilos
- Frame/fork/steering bearing 857/374/64 grammes
- Gearshift/brakes Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 2x12
- Impellers Roval Rapide CLX 60
- Tyres Specialised Turbo Cotton
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Jens Klötzer
Editor
