I operated both a 2023 S-Works Tarmac SL7 and a 2023 Cervélo S5 at the same time, and after disposing of both, I rode a 2026 S-Works Tarmac SL8.
Compared to the two bikes, I definitely felt that the Tarmac SL8 has a strong all-rounder character. It's a bike you don't blame no matter what course you're on, right?!
But as my weight increased, I started avoiding uphills and only looking for flat terrain...
I bought the new S5 out of curiosity, and sure enough, I really liked that feeling of flying on flat terrain. It performs great at high speeds!
Then the S-Works Tarmac SL9 was released.
Unlike what it looks like in images, many elements have changed, and above all, the Red Bull edition is so beautiful that I couldn't help but buy it!
On the launch day, I completed assembly right away and ride it every day, and today I even went on a long ride.
Even though the Tarmac SL9 is nearly 400g lighter than the new S5, in the 45-50 km/h flat speed range, the riding feel is very similar to the S5.
On uphills, it was of course more nimble than the S5. (Still, I don't like uphills,,,,,)
If you had any regrets about aero on the previous S-Works Tarmac SL8, I absolutely recommend it!
The Specialized Hannam flagship store not only assembled it meticulously and perfectly, but also took a great delivery photo for me to show off!
