Specialized Tarmac Disc Comp 2019

About The Tarmac:

Fast. Light. Comfortable. Choose all three.

The Tarmac is a proper road race bike, as suited to grand tours as it is smashing local criteriums or riding at the sharp end of epic sportives. It's lack of weight, aerodynamics and Rider-First engineering combine to make nothing short of the perfect road bike.

The Tarmac frame utilises Specialized's FACT 9R carbon fibre with advanced aero space software to keep material where it's need, and remove it elsewhere for the lightest finished frame. Rider-First engineering optimises the carbon layup for each frame size, so large bikes will feel just as stiff and snappy as they should, while small sized bikes won't feel overly harsh. What that means is better performance across every size.

Specialized are pioneers in bike fitting, having worked with specialists for years to develop a comprehensive database of rider profiles. This really comes through in the frame design with the geometry designed to suit the rider who values speed and performance first. A position that is just aggressive enough to get the most from the bike without causing discomfort, and spot-on handling to move easily within the peloton and hold that line when flying downhill.

For years, the Tarmac was all about lightweight, but this season Specialized have managed to add aerodynamic profiles to the fork, seat stays and seat tube without adding any weight. In fact, it's 20% lighter than the old version! So not only do you have les weight to get up to speed, you've got aero benefits to the equivalent of 45 seconds saved over a typical 40km route. With the new Tarmac, you really can have your cake and eat it.

The build kit on this Disc Comp model fits the aspirations of the frame perfectly. A full Shimano Ultegra groupset is light, smooth, and with a 52/36 chainset, ready to race and smash those Strava times. Matching hydraulic brakes provide perfect control on the most arduous descents. DT Swiss R470 wheels are light and robust with low spoke count to save weight. Specialized's own Turbo Pro tyres are proven performers and in 26mm width offer a good balance of comfort and grip to outright speed. Own brand finishing kit is truly top drawer with an aero carbon seatpost, shallow drop bar and Body Geometry Power saddle. Put it altogether you've got a seriously fast road bike for those who want to test themselves.

The Tarmac is everything you need in a modern road race bike. If you value speed, it's a great choice.