S-Works Tarmac SL9 Frameset – FACT 12r Carbon FAQs
What is the S-Works Tarmac SL9 Frameset?
The S-Works Tarmac SL9 is a premium carbon road racing frameset designed for maximum speed, low weight, aerodynamic efficiency and precise handling. It is developed around high-performance road racing and competitive cycling.
What type of carbon is used in the S-Works Tarmac SL9?
The frameset uses Specialized FACT 12r Carbon, Specialized's highest-level carbon construction for the Tarmac range. The official specification lists the frame weight at approximately 687 grams.
What is the frame weight of the S-Works Tarmac SL9?
The official Specialized specification lists the FACT 12r carbon frame at 687 g. The complete frameset weighs approximately 1.39 kg in size 56, although actual weight can vary with paint, frame size and components.
Is the S-Works Tarmac SL9 an aerodynamic frameset?
Yes. The SL9 uses Win Tunnel Engineered aerodynamics and features Specialized's Speed Sniffer head tube, Flow Fork and aerodynamic seatpost design to reduce drag while maintaining low weight and responsive handling.
What is Rider-First Engineered™ technology?
Rider-First Engineered™ means Specialized engineers the frame construction and ride characteristics across the size range so that different frame sizes maintain consistent performance, handling and ride quality.
Does the S-Works Tarmac SL9 have internal cable routing?
Yes. The frameset is designed for fully internal cable routing, providing a clean cockpit and helping improve aerodynamic performance.
What bottom bracket standard does the Tarmac SL9 use?
The S-Works Tarmac SL9 uses a threaded bottom bracket.
Does the S-Works Tarmac SL9 use disc brakes?
Yes. The frame and fork use flat-mount disc brake compatibility.
What rear axle standard does the Tarmac SL9 use?
The frame uses a 12×142 mm rear thru-axle, while the fork uses a 12×100 mm front thru-axle.
Does the S-Works Tarmac SL9 use a UDH derailleur hanger?
Yes. The current official Specialized specification lists a UDH dropout, making the frame compatible with the Universal Derailleur Hanger standard.
What fork comes with the S-Works Tarmac SL9 Frameset?
It comes with an S-Works FACT 12r Carbon fork with a 12×100 mm thru-axle and flat-mount disc brake compatibility.
What seatpost comes with the S-Works Tarmac SL9 Frameset?
The official Specialized specification lists an S-Works Rapide Post, FACT Carbon, with a 15 mm offset.
Does the frameset include a headset?
Yes. The official specification lists CeramicSpeed SLT headset bearings.
Does the S-Works Tarmac SL9 come with a seat binder?
Yes. It uses the Tarmac integrated wedge seat-clamping system.
Is the S-Works Tarmac SL9 suitable for racing?
Yes. It is specifically designed for road racing and high-performance cycling. Its combination of FACT 12r carbon, low weight, aerodynamic design, stiffness and responsive handling makes it suitable for competitive racing.
Is the S-Works Tarmac SL9 good for climbing?
Yes. Its extremely lightweight FACT 12r carbon construction makes it particularly suitable for climbing and weight-sensitive race builds, while its aerodynamic design also makes it effective on fast and flat sections.
Is the S-Works Tarmac SL9 suitable for long rides?
Yes. Although it is primarily a race frameset, the Tarmac SL9 is designed to combine speed, handling and ride compliance, making it suitable for long road rides as well as competitive cycling.
Can I build a custom bike with the S-Works Tarmac SL9 Frameset?
Yes. The frameset is an excellent foundation for a premium custom road bike build. You can select your preferred groupset, wheelset, handlebar, saddle and other compatible components.
What groupsets can be fitted to the S-Works Tarmac SL9?
The frameset can be built with compatible high-end road groupsets such as Shimano Dura-Ace Di2, Shimano Ultegra Di2 or SRAM RED AXS, depending on the specific component configuration and compatibility requirements.
Is the S-Works Tarmac SL9 UCI approved?
The Tarmac is developed as a professional-level road racing platform, and the current Tarmac SL9 is designed around UCI-compliant racing requirements. For a specific competition, the complete bike configuration should meet the applicable UCI regulations.
What is included with the S-Works Tarmac SL9 Frameset?
According to the BYK India listing, the frameset includes the S-Works Tarmac SL9 FACT 12r Carbon frame, S-Works FACT 12r Carbon fork, S-Works Tarmac/SL9 carbon seatpost and integrated wedge seat binder.
Who is the S-Works Tarmac SL9 Frameset best suited for?
It is best suited for professional racers, competitive cyclists, serious road riders and enthusiasts looking to build a premium custom race bike with an exceptionally lightweight and aerodynamic carbon frame.
Does the S-Works Tarmac SL9 Frameset come with a warranty?
Warranty coverage is subject to Specialized's applicable warranty terms and the warranty provided for the purchase in India. Customers should refer to the warranty documentation supplied with the frameset for the applicable coverage.