No bike is as fast as the Tarmac SL8, thanks to a combination of aerodynamics, light weight, and ride quality previously thought impossible. After eight generations and more than two decades of development, it’s not just the fastest Tarmac ever—it’s the fastest race bike in the world. Are your legs ready?
Aerodynamics or weight alone don't win races—it's all about speed. And to achieve that speed requires an uncompromising combination of aerodynamics, weight, stiffness, and compliance. Using complex simulations using real-world data, our Ride Science team has verified that the Tarmac SL8 is the fastest road bike on any course: - 16.6 seconds faster than the 40km flat course, 128 seconds faster than the Milano-San Remo, 20 seconds faster than the Tourmalet climb.
- AERODYNAMICS: We apply aerodynamics where it matters most, and in the process have created our fastest road bike ever – yes, more aero than the Venge. The front end has been optimised to give it the maximum advantage. The fork steerer tube is positioned further back than the front of the frame’s head tube, giving it much lower aerodynamic drag. Thanks to new UCI rules, the SL8 is also equipped with the narrowest, most aerodynamic seatpost we’ve ever made, ensuring turbulent air around your legs can flow more easily to the rear of the bike.
- LIGHTWEIGHT: We took what we learned from the Aethos to create the Tarmac SL8 and make it the most aerodynamic bike while meeting the UCI’s minimum weight requirement. The team achieved a 685-gram frameset that’s 15% lighter than the Tarmac SL7 and lighter than any other bike on the World Tour*. By focusing on lightness in the downtube, seat tube, and tailtube, we applied lessons learned from the Aethos design. The frame’s shapes respond so efficiently to stresses and strains that we were able to shave material thin and eliminate anything unnecessary. *With the exception of one time when Kasper Asgreen rode our 585-gram Aethos on a Tour stage.
- RIDE QUALITY: The Tarmac SL8 has a 33% better stiffness-to-weight ratio than the SL7. The Tarmac SL8 sets a new benchmark for handling, precise in the most demanding situations, and responsive and efficient at handling. While the areas that support power transfer and precise steering are stiffer than ever, the Tarmac SL8 is more comfortable in the saddle, filtering out 6% more shocks from the ground, allowing you to attack corners with a more agile and balanced feel than any other road bike. The new Tarmac SL8 retains the proven geometry of the SL7, with the same generous 32mm tire clearance, so you can run larger volume tires when needed.
- BEYOND GENDER: In reality, there can be more differences between two male cyclists than between a man and a woman. We design for the individual, and our philosophy is simple: Don't make differences where there aren't any. Every cyclist, male or female, can benefit from the Tarmac SL8. It's time to go beyond that.
- The S-Works Tarmac SL8 frameset, with 68mm threaded bottom bracket, is the perfect starting point for building your dream bike.
Technical specifications:
Chassis
-
Frame : S-Works Tarmac SL8 FACT 12r Carbon, Rider First Engineered™, Win Tunnel Engineered, Clean Routing, Threaded BB, 12x142mm wheel clearance, flat-mount disc, 685g frame.
Suspensions
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Fork : S-Works FACT 12r Carbon, 12x100mm thru axle, flat-mount disc
Cockpit
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Seatpost : S-Works Tarmac SL8 Carbon, FACT Carbon, 15mm offset
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Seat Clamp : Integrated Tarmac
Weight
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Weight : 1.37kg (3 lb, .3 oz)
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Weighted measurement : 56cm
Specifications are subject to change without notice based on component availability.
The image is purely indicative and may not fully reflect the characteristics of the product .
Do you want to receive your bike ready for use? Don't forget to add the bike assembly service at the time of purchase! Discover all the details here: Francesconi bike assembly
A Complete Guide to Bike Sizes
Foreword: Not all bike sizes are the same
Each type of bike has a specific frame and often uses a different size scale. For example, a road bike with a 54cm frame might be considered a medium size by one brand, but a large by another.
Bicycle adjustment margins
Some types of bikes, like gravel bikes, offer a wide range of adjustments, adapting to different body types. Other models, however, have limitations in this regard. This is an important aspect to consider.
How to use size charts
We've created a simple guide to help you find the right bike size:
- Check out our size charts for each bike type.
- Learn more with specific tips to help you make the right choice.
Size Charts: Find Your Perfect Bike
Gravel and road bikes
Sizes are based on the length of the top tube (in cm), which determines the reach of the bike.
| Cut
|
Recommended height
|
Horizontal tube length
|
| XS |
Up to 157 cm |
48-50 cm |
| S |
157-167 cm |
50-53 cm |
| M |
168-178 cm |
53-56 cm |
| THE |
178-185 cm |
56-58 cm |
| XL |
Over 185cm |
58-62 cm |
For gravel, measurements may vary slightly due to different geometries, but remain similar.
Mountain bike
MTBs are measured in inches, based on the seat tube.
| Cut
|
Recommended height
|
Size (in inches)
|
| XS |
Up to 157 cm |
14"-16" |
| S |
157-167 cm |
15"-17" |
| M |
168-178 cm |
16"-19" |
| THE |
178-185 cm |
18"-20" |
| XL |
Over 185cm |
20"-23" |
Sizes also vary depending on the type of MTB: full-suspension , hardtail or fat bike .
Children's bikes
The size depends on the size of the wheels, often associated with age:
| Age
|
Wheel Size
|
| 1-3 years |
12" |
| 2-4 years |
14" |
| 4-6 years |
16" |
| 5-8 years |
20" |
| 8-10 years |
24" |
| Over 10 years |
26"/27.5" |
What to do with half measures?
If you are between two sizes:
-
Comfort : Choose the larger size.
-
Performance : Go for the smaller size.
Final tips for choosing
-
Consult the manufacturer's instructions : Always check the brand's guidelines.
-
Ask an expert : a specialized workshop can help you choose based on your height, ideal reach and goals.
-
Test the bike : If possible, test the model you intend to purchase.