To cut some grams from the Tarmac whilst maintaining it's stiffness and compliance in exactly the right places, Specialized took major steps to improving their Rider-First Engineered™ technology. From different layup schedules and materials, to visibly different forks, we scrutinised every single aspect of the Tarmac to ensure you're getting the perfect ride. With this revamp, Specialized also updated the geometry, basing it on countless Retül data points and professional rider input. This enabled us to develop a Performance Road Geometry that perfects the combination of a responsive front-end and short wheelbase, which delivers instantaneous response and optimal power transfer.
Whilst stiffness aids in the aforementioned, compliance must also be utilised for an optimal ride quality. That's why Specialized dropped the seatstays, and altered the seat tube shape. Tyre clearance up to 30mm was also added to allow lower pressures for decreased rolling resistance, increased traction, and more comfort. Altogether, these additions still have the Tarmac riding like a true race-machine, but it also takes a bit of the sting out of road imperfections.
Disc brakes were chosen as they provide superior braking power and modulation, work exceptionally well in wet weather, and offer a very, very minor weight addition. All this means that you have more control and can go faster with more confidence.
Specialized also know, however, that aerodynamic improvements are the most important thing they can do to make you faster. The Bora-Hansgrohe and Quick-Step Floors Pro Tour riders, after all, are demanding aero improvements on every bike. With this, the aero goal was to discover where it could essentially be added for free by not taking anything away from the hallmarks of the Tarmac design. During the six-month iterative process, three areas were discovered where this could be done - a new fork shape and dropped seatstays with aero tubes.
This Tarmac comes with a no-fuss spec that includes Shimano Ultegra mechanical shifting, quick-stopping hydraulic disc brakes, durable DT R470 Disc wheels.
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Featuring a Rider-First Engineered™ design that ensures every frame size has the same legendary climbing responsiveness and descending prowess you'd expect from a Tarmac. The FACT 9r frame is the perfect blend of value and performance.
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Shimano's no-fuss Ultegra shifting with hydraulic disc brakes provides precise shifting and plenty of stopping power.
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DT R470 Disc wheels feature reliable, sealed cartridge hubs, and 24 front and rear spokes that keeps weight low and durability high.