Specialized uses the S-Works branding for their top-of-the-line models. For example, the all-rounder Tarmac SL8 comes in the S-Works and non S-Works versions, called the Specialized Tarmac SL8. The major difference lies in the carbon fiber materials and the components.
Below the S-Works are the Specialized Pro, Expert, Comp, Sport, and Base models. S-Works models are always specced with the best electronic shifting groupsets (Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 or SRAM Red eTap AXS).
As the models trickle down from Pro to Base, and components from Shimano Ultegra to 105, SRAM Force to Rival, the prices follow the same direction.
| Specialized bike model | Type of Specialized bike | Price range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Specialized Tarmac SL8 | All-rounder race bike | $6,500 to $14,000 |
| Specialized Tarmac SL7 | All-rounder race bike | $5,500 to $14,250 |
| Specialized Aethos | Lightweight climbing bike | $5,500 to $14,250 |
| Specialized Allez | Entry-level road bike | $1,000 to $6,800 |
| Specialized Roubaix | Endurance bike | $2,700 to $12,250 |
| Specialized Turbo Creo SL | Electric bike | $6,000 to $16,500 |
Specialized Tarmac SL8
The Specialized Tarmac SL8 is the latest, all-rounder race bike.
Now in its eighth iteration, hence SL8, the Specialized Tarmac improves on the features of the Tarmac SL7 that made it one of the best bikes in professional cycling and a leading bike brand among amateur cyclists.
According to Specialized, the Tarmac SL8 has a 33% improvement in stiffness-to-weight ratio compared to the Tarmac SL7. The most significant improvement is in aerodynamics; a larger head tube with a sharper nose cone. Specialized calls this the Speed Sniffer.
The S-Works version retains the same FACT 12r carbon, while the Specialized Pro and Expert versions use the FACT 10r carbon. The difference between the S-Works and Specialized versions lies in the carbon fiber grade, choice of groupset, wheels, and components. The S-Works versions come with the newly launched Roval Rapide Cockpit, a one-pice carbon handlebar.
A size 56 bike weighs 6.62 kg (14.6 lbs) with a Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 groupset, and 6.85 kg (15.1 lbs) with a SRAM Red AXS.
There are six models in the Specialized Tarmac SL8 lineup based on its groupset setup. All models are electronic shifting only. It’s also available in frameset only for S-Works and for Specialized versions.
| Model | Frame material | Groupset | Wheelset | Max. tire size | Retail price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| S-Works Tarmac SL8 | FACT 12r carbon | Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 (R9200) | Roval Rapid CLX II (51mm front, 60mm rear) | 32mm | $14,000 |
| S-Works Tarmac SL8 | FACT 12r carbon | SRAM Red eTap AXS | Roval Rapid CLX II (51mm front, 51mm rear) | 32mm | $14,000 |
| Specialized Tarmac SL8 Pro | FACT 10r carbon | Shimano Ultegra Di2 (R8100) | Roval Rapid CL II (51mm front, 60mm rear) | 32mm | $8,500 |
| Specialized Tarmac SL8 Pro | FACT 10r carbon | SRAM Force eTap AXS | Roval Rapid CL II (51mm front, 60mm rear) | 32mm | $8,500 |
| Specialized Tarmac SL8 Expert | FACT 10r carbon | SRAM Rival eTap AXS | Roval C38 (38mm) | 32mm | $6,500 |
More reading : Specialized Tarmac SL8 vs SL7 - What's Changed?
Specialized Tarmac SL7
The Specialized Tarmac SL7 is the complete race bike. It’s without a doubt the most popular model among all Specialized bikes.
Now in its seventh iteration (SL7), the Specialized Tarmac combines an aerodynamic, lightweight, and disc-only road bike for all terrains. Light enough to climb the steepest mountain passes in Tour de France, fast and aero for the sprints on Champs Elysees.
The S-Works frame uses the lighter and stiffer FACT 12r carbon, while all other Specialized frame uses the FACT 10r carbon. The difference lies in the choice of groupset, wheels, and components.
There are six models in the Specialized Tarmac SL7 lineup based on its groupset setup. All models are electronic shifting only. It’s also available in frameset only for Specialized and S-Works editions.
| Model | Frame material | Groupset | Wheelset | Retail price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S-Works Tarmac SL7 | FACT 12r carbon | Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 (R9200) | Roval Alpinist CLX | $14,250 |
| S-Works Tarmac SL7 | FACT 12r carbon | SRAM Red eTap AXS | Roval Alpinist CLX | $14,000 |
| Specialized Tarmac SL7 Pro | FACT 10r carbon | SRAM Force eTap AXS | Roval Rapide CL | $9,000 |
| Specialized Tarmac SL7 Expert | FACT 10r carbon | Shimano Ultegra Di2 (R8100) | Roval C38 | $8,300 |
| Specialized Tarmac SL7 Expert | FACT 10r carbon | SRAM Rival eTap AXS | Roval C38 | $6,500 |
| Specialized Tarmac SL7 Comp | FACT 10r carbon | Shimano 105 Di2 (R7100) | DT Swiss R470 | $5,500 |
Specialized Tarmac SL7 vs others
More reading : Specialized Tarmac SL7 Frame Geometry Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 (R9200) vs SRAM Red eTap AXS Groupsets
Specialized Aethos
The Specialized Aethos is a lightweight road bike designed for hardcore weight weenies. Featuring a more traditional shape with rounded tubes and non-dropped seat stay, the Aethos weighs only 5.9kg for a complete bike.
Pronounced as Ay-thoss, the naming is based on the Greek word Ethos, meaning character.
With its weight below the minimum of 6.8kg mandated by the UCI, the Specialized Aethos will not feature in professional cycling. Like the Tarmac, the S-Works frames use the FACT 12r carbon, and non S-Works frame use the FACT 10r carbon.
There are five models in the Aethos lineup based on its groupset setup. It’s also available in frameset only for Specialized and S-Works editions.
| Model | Frame material | Groupset | Wheelset | Retail price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S-Works Aethos | FACT 12r carbon | Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 (R9200) | Roval Alpinist CLX | $14,250 |
| S-Works Aethos | FACT 12r carbon | SRAM Red eTap AXS | Roval Alpinist CLX | $13,750 |
| Specialized Aethos Pro | FACT 10r carbon | SRAM Force eTap AXS | Roval Alpinist CL | $8,700 |
| Specialized Aethos Expert | FACT 10r carbon | Shimano Ultegra Di2 (R8100) | Roval C38 | $8,000 |
| Specialized Aethos Comp | FACT 10r carbon | SRAM Rival eTap AXS | DT Swiss R470 | $5,200 |
Specialized Aethos vs others
More reading : Specialized Aethos Frame Geometry SRAM Force eTap AXS vs Shimano Ultegra Di2 List of Road Bikes with Shimano Ultegra Di2 (R8100)
Specialized Roubaix
The Specialized Roubaix is an endurance bike that got its name from the hardest one-day bike race; the Paris-Roubaix. It has a slightly relaxed frame geometry and wider tire clearance compared to the Tarmac.
Specialized sponsored teams will ride this model for the race instead of their usual Tarmac for its Future Shock suspension system. This technology helps make riding more comfortable when the pros ride across rough cobblestones at 30mph.
There are six models in the Specialized Roubaix lineup based on its groupset setup. It’s also available in S-Works frameset only.
| Model | Frame material | Groupset | Wheelset | Retail price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S-Works Roubaix | FACT 11r carbon | Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 (R9200) | Roval Alpinist CLX | $14,250 |
| Specialized Roubaix Pro | FACT 10r carbon | SRAM Force eTap AXS | Roval Alpinist CL | $8,700 |
| Specialized Roubaix Expert | FACT 10r carbon | Shimano Ultegra Di2 (R8100) | Roval C38 | $8,000 |
| Specialized Roubaix Comp | FACT 10r carbon | SRAM Rival eTap AXS | DT Swiss R470 | $5,200 |
Specialized Roubaix vs others
More reading : Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 (R9200) vs Ultegra Di2 (R8100)
Specialized Allez
Over the years, many cyclists have used the Specialized Allez to race criteriums. Eventually, Specialized made a model specifically for that; the Allez Sprint.
The Specialized Allez is an aluminum, entry-level road bike since 1981. Unlike the aggressive geometry of the Specialized Tarmac and Venge, the Specialized Allez geometry is more relaxed to cater to a wider range of cyclists.
There are two models in the Specialized Allez lineup based on its groupset setup. It’s also available in a frameset only. The Sprint model is welded using the D’Aluisio Smartweld Technology, which offers greater acceleration and handling for crit racing.
| Model | Frame material | Groupset | Wheelset | Retail price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Specialized Allez Sprint LTD | Aluminum (D’Aluisio Smartweld Technology) | SRAM Force eTap AXS 1X | Roval Rapide CL | $6,800 |
| Specialized Allez Sprint Comp | Aluminum (D’Aluisio Smartweld Technology) | Shimano 105 (R7000) | DT Swiss R470 | $3,000 |
More reading : SRAM Rival eTap AXS vs Shimano 105 Di2 Groupsets
Specialized bikes FAQ
What is the difference between Specialized Aethos and Tarmac?
The Specialized Aethos is focused on being lightweight, offering a more traditional ride quality with excellent handling, while the Specialized Tarmac is more focused on a balance between weight, aerodynamics, and stiffness, making it a versatile choice for various types of terrain and riding styles.
| Attributes | Specialized Aethos | Specialized Tarmac |
|---|---|---|
| Type of riding | Climbing, long-distance, endurance riding | Racing, all-around performance, versatile terrain |
| Riding position | More upright, relaxed | More aggressive, lower, race-oriented |
| Bike handling | Smooth, responsive, precise | Quick, nimble, stable at high speeds |
| Comfort | Greater compliance and comfort over long rides | Stiff but compliant, balanced ride quality |
| Power transfer | Excellent stiffness-to-weight ratio | Very stiff, efficient power transfer |
| Aerodynamics | Less focus on aerodynamics | More aerodynamically optimized, faster in various conditions |
What is the difference between Specialized Aethos and Roubaix?
The Specialized Aethos is a lightweight bike with traditional ride quality and excellent handling, making it ideal for climbing and long-distance endurance rides.
In contrast, the Specialized Roubaix is an endurance-oriented bike designed to provide a comfortable ride on various road surfaces, featuring innovative technologies to absorb vibrations and increase compliance.
| Attributes | Specialized Aethos | Specialized Roubaix |
|---|---|---|
| Type of riding | Climbing, long-distance, endurance riding | Endurance, rough roads, long distance comfort |
| Riding position | More upright, relaxed | Upright, relaxed, endurance-focused |
| Bike handling | Smooth, responsive, precise | Stable, confidence-inspiring, smooth |
| Comfort | Greater compliance and comfort over long rides | Exceptional comfort, vibration-damping technology |
| Power transfer | Excellent stiffness-to-weight ratio | Good power transfer, slightly less stiff than Aethos |
| Aerodynamics | Less focus on aerodynamics | Less focus on aerodynamics and more focus on comfort and control |
What is the difference between Specialized Tarmac and Roubaix?
The Specialized Tarmac is a race-oriented bike that emphasizes aerodynamics, stiffness, and handling, making it perfect for competitive cyclists and those who enjoy pushing their limits on fast rides.
On the other hand, the Specialized Roubaix is an endurance bike built for comfort and compliance over rough roads, ideal for cyclists who prioritize long-distance comfort and stability on varying road surfaces.
| Attributes | Specialized Tarmac | Specialized Roubaix |
|---|---|---|
| Type of riding | Racing, fast group rides, climbing | Less focus on aerodynamics and more focus on comfort and control |
| Riding position | Aggressive, race-oriented | Upright, relaxed, endurance-focused |
| Bike handling | Quick, responsive, agile | Stable, confidence-inspiring, smooth |
| Comfort | Less focus on aerodynamics, and more focus on comfort and control | Exceptional comfort, vibration-damping technology |
| Power transfer | Excellent stiffness for maximum efficiency | Good power transfer, slightly less stiff than Tarmac |
| Aerodynamics | Aerodynamically optimized design | Less focus on comfort and more on performance |
What is the difference between Specialized Tarmac and Allez?
The Specialized Tarmac is a high-performance, race-oriented bike that focuses on aerodynamics, stiffness, and handling, making it perfect for competitive cyclists and those who enjoy fast rides.
In contrast, the Specialized Allez is an entry-level, aluminum road bike that offers a more affordable option for riders new to road cycling or those seeking a reliable training bike. It provides a great balance of performance and value, making it an excellent choice for many riders.
| Attributes | Specialized Tarmac | Specialized Allez |
|---|---|---|
| Type of riding | Racing, fast group rides, climbing | Entry-level road cycling, training, group rides |
| Riding position | Aggressive, race-oriented | Less focus on aerodynamics, and more on value and versatility |
| Bike handling | Quick, responsive, agile | Good handling, not as sharp as Specialized Tarmac |
| Comfort | Less focus on comfort and more on performance | Reasonable comfort for an entry-level road bike |
| Power transfer | Excellent stiffness for maximum efficiency | Good power transfer, not as stiff as Tarmac |
| Aerodynamics | Aerodynamically optimized design | Less focus on comfort and more on performance |
What is the difference between Specialized Tarmac and Venge?
The Specialized Tarmac is a versatile, all-around race bike focused on a balance of aerodynamics, lightweight design, and handling. It excels in various racing scenarios, from climbing to sprinting.
The Specialized Venge, now discontinued, is an aero race bike designed to maximize speed on flat and rolling terrain. It prioritizes aerodynamic efficiency and power transfer over lightweight construction and versatility.
| Aspect | Specialized Tarmac | Specialized Venge |
|---|---|---|
| Type of riding | All-around racing, climbing, fast group rides | Aero racing, sprints, flat and rolling terrain |
| Riding position | Aggressive, race-oriented | Aggressive, aerodynamically focused |
| Bike handling | Quick, responsive, versatile | Stable at high speeds, less agile than Tarmac |
| Comfort | Good balance between comfort and performance | More focus on aerodynamics, less on comfort |
| Power transfer | Excellent stiffness for maximum efficiency | Exceptional power transfer due to aero design |
| Aerodynamics | Aerodynamically efficient, not as aero as Venge | Highly aerodynamic, designed to minimize drag |
How long is Specialized’s warranty?
Specialized offers a lifetime warranty for the original owner covering the frame and fork. There is a two-year warranty from the initial purchase date for second or subsequent owners.
More about Specialized’s warranty policy.
Where are Specialized bikes made?
Specialized bikes are made in China while being designed in Morgan Hill, California headquarters.
Where can I buy Specialized bikes?
Specialized bikes are sold through their network is dealers globally. You easily find a Specialized dealer in most major cities around the world.
Alternatively, try the Specialized Store Finder.
Which professional team does Specialized sponsor?
In 2021, Specialized sponsors Bora-Hansgrohe, Deceuninck Quickstep, and SD Worx. They’re the team of Julian Alaphilippe and Anna van der Breggen, the current men’s and women’s World Road Race champion.
In 2023, three World Tour teams are riding Specialized bikes; Soudal-Quick-Step, BORA Hansgrohe, and Team Total Energies. The Specialized bikes will be ridden by current World Champion Remco Evenepoel and former World Champions such as Julian Alaphilippe and Peter Sagan.
More reading : Bikes at the 2022 Tour de France
Alex Lee is the founder and editor-at-large of Mr. Mamil. Coming from a professional engineering background, he breaks down technical cycling nuances into an easy-to-understand and digestible format here.
He has been riding road bikes actively for the past 12 years and started racing competitively in the senior category during the summer recently.