Specialized Tarmac SL6
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Facts
Summary of Reviews
We have read all expert and user reviews on the Specialized Tarmac SL6. In summary, this is what cyclists think.
14 reasons to buy
- The Specialized Tarmac SL6 is a light and fast road bike.
- The Tarmac is UCI-legal and has been raced by pro teams, including BORA-Hansgrohe and Deceuninck-Quick-Step.
- The stiff fork and frame are highly responsive to rider input.
- Lower-end models of the Tarmac SL6 have a threaded bottom bracket which is easy to maintain.
- The leverless thru-axles and low seat stays are aerodynamic.
- Testers were pleased to find there is clearance for tires up to 30mm. Wide tires offer riders comfort on rough terrain.
- Specialized offers builds at multiple price points with SRAM and Shimano components.
- Experts were pleased a power meter is included with the Tarmac SL6.
- The Roubaix bar wrap on the Tarmac SL6 is notably cushioned for rider comfort.
- Specialized utilizes their own Turbo tires on the bike. These are great all-weather tires.
- The Tarmac SL6 is extremely lightweight.
- Testers agree the bike is extremely attractive with the slim frame tubing and internally routed cables.
- Experts agree the bike is priced fairly on each build for the included componentry.
- The aggressive geometry, low head tube angle and stable wheelbase allow riders to corner smoothly.
4 reasons not to buy
- Some builds have a press-fit bottom bracket. Testers found this creaked over time.
- The entry-point of the cables was not favorable and looked messy, according to some testers.
- The bike is so light that it does not maintain speed well on flats.
- The saddle's 20mm of offset places riders in a position that one expert found to be overly aggressive.
Bottom line
The Specialized Tarmac SL6 is a capable and stable race machine, that excels on sprints. It's available in numerous builds from entry-level to S-Works. Peter Sagan, of team BORA-Hansgrohe, used it in the Tour de France. It’s lightweight but UCI-legal. It’s extremely responsive. Aerodynamic features include leverless thru-axles, slim tubing, and internally routed cables. The bike is priced fairly and includes a power meter. Unfortunately, top models use a press-fit bottom bracket that can easily develop a creak. It also struggles to maintain its speed on flats due to its low weight.Expert Reviews
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