Specialized’s Tarmac SL9 S-Level is built to wreck your Zone 2 ride

Specialized's Tarmac SL9 S-Level road bike is engineered to push riders into higher intensity zones during Zone 2 rides. Despite its aerodynamic design, the bike has a seductive allure that can entice cyclists to venture beyond their intended moderate effort level. The Tarmac SL9 S-Level is part of Specialized's top-tier carbon, aero road bike lineup, which replaced the Tarmac SL8 Pro in the brand's hierarchy.

This year, the bike underwent updates, prompting the author to spend several weeks riding it and accumulating nearly 1,000 miles. The Tarmac SL9 line offers four models, all compatible with both SRAM and Shimano drivetrains, with the SRAM version tested by Ars. Notably, riders can opt for the top-tier groupset without purchasing the premium bike.

The SRAM Expert model is 20 grams lighter than the Shimano version, while the Shimano Comp is 70 grams heavier than the SRAM counterpart.