Perfectly timed for the Tour de France 2026, Specialized has launched the S-Works Tarmac SL9. Although it wasn't a secret, with various leaks, and even our very own Will Jones, going full James Bond stealth mode, grabbing images from a bush at the Dauphine – the new Tarmac SL9 is still one of the most eagerly anticipated launches of the year, and without doubt, it'll be one of the best road bikes of the year.
With the Tour de France starting this weekend, the new SL9 will be front and centre, ridden by Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe. Team co-leaders Remco Evenepoel and Florian Lipowitz will look to take advantage of the aerodynamic efficiency claims and are targeting the yellow jersey.
Specialized is claiming the new S-Works Tarmac SL9 is "the fastest road bike ever made", which is a bold claim, considering it looks almost identical to its predecessor, the S-Works Tarmac SL8. It also comes with a whopping price-tag of up to £11,999, so it's a massive investment for us mere mortals. Although it looks almost identical there is a ton of tech going on behind the scenes to justify that cost, including a new layup, a more aero front end, and a deeper seat tube cutout.
With the SL9 launch, there are big discounts on the outgoing SL8, already our choice as the best aero bike, especially outside the S-Works top-tier builds. So if you've had your eye on what was once the "fastest road bike ever made," then now's the time to take a look. Below I've listed the discounted models at Balfes Bikes, and with limited sizing, they are likely to go quickly. I've also added the S-Works Tarmac SL9, just in case...
Shop the Specialized Tarmac SL8 with up to 16% off at Balfe's Bikes.
These highlighted Specialized Tarmac SL8 deals are UK only, and I've not managed to source any SL8 USA deals just yet. The best I've seen and strictly speaking not a deal is the SL8 frameset at Backcountry with a 10% cashback offer, which is better than nothing.
However, incase I'be missed anything, below you'll find the best prices on the SL8 with prices and retailers, relevant to your location.
