Tech drop2 weeks ago
Specialized Tarmac SL9 S-Level — FACT 12r fork on a FACT 10r frameset, £8,799
S-Level price£8,799
Entry price (Comp)£3,999
S-Level frame weight882 g
S-Level build weight7.1 kg
S-Works vs S-Level saving£3,200
Eight weeks after the S-Works Tarmac SL9 launched at £11,999, Specialized dropped three new tiers on 25 August 2026 — bringing the entry point to £3,999. The S-Level is the interesting case: it pairs a FACT 10r frame with the S-Works' FACT 12r fork and top-tier groupsets (SRAM Red AXS or Shimano Dura-Ace), inverting the usual logic where the frameset is the premium and components are trimmed. The June launch created a £3,000+ gap below the S-Works with nothing in it; the S-Level exists specifically to fill that gap for riders who want pro-spec drivetrains without the flagship frame premium.
Sources
Specialized makes the Tarmac SL9 more affordable with three new models | BikeRadarThe Specialized Tarmac SL9 Gets Cheaper | VeloNewsSpecialized reveals 'S-Level' Tarmac SL9, says it 'exceeds every competing race bike in its class' | Cyclingnews"The second fastest bike ever made": Specialized expands Tarmac SL9 range | road.cc