Specialized Tarmac SL8 Force AXS E1 *Contender Custom*

The Specialized Tarmac SL8 Force AXS E1 Contender Custom build represents the pinnacle of modern race bike engineering. After eight generations and over two decades of development, the Tarmac SL8 delivers a combination of aerodynamics, lightweight construction, and ride quality previously thought impossible, creating what Specialized calls the world’s fastest race bike.

Built on the revolutionary Tarmac SL8 FACT 10r carbon frame using Rider First Engineering, this bike achieves unprecedented performance metrics: 16.6 seconds faster over 40km than the SL7, more aerodynamic than the Venge, and featuring a 685-gram frameset that’s 15% lighter than its predecessor. The innovative Speed Sniffer nose cone and repositioned steer tube create the sharpest leading edge Specialized has ever designed, optimizing airflow where it matters most while maintaining UCI minimum weight with a full aero setup.

Perfect for racers and performance enthusiasts who demand nothing less than the fastest, the Tarmac SL8 Force AXS E1 delivers a massive 33% improvement in stiffness-to-weight over the SL7 while being 6% smoother in the saddle. With World Championship-proven geometry, 32mm tire clearance, and co-development input from world-class athletes like Remco Evenepoel and Demi Vollering, this bike goes like hell and rides like heaven.

This Contender Custom build elevates performance with SRAM’s Force E1 2x12 wireless electronic drivetrain, delivering precise, reliable shifting without cables for clean aesthetics and ultimate simplicity. The Roval Rapide C 38 Disc tubeless-ready wheelset provides the ideal balance of aerodynamic efficiency and all-around performance, making this build equally capable whether sprinting for town lines or grinding out training miles.

Key Features

• Frame - Tarmac SL8 FACT 10r Carbon 
• Drivetrain - SRAM Force E1 2x12 Wireless Electronic
• Wheelset - Roval Rapide C 38 Disc Tubeless-Ready