The new SL2 rocks!

[CeeDubb]

I've found my next road bike. While I was seriously contemplating getting the Pinerello Prince Carbon due to an awesome opportunity to get the frame for $4000, I'm deciding to plop my cash down on a bike that I've heard nothing but great things about.

I'm going for the "Raw" version that is straight carbon with no clearcoat. Turns out they inspect the frames as they come out of the mold and they choose the ones with barely any imperfections. They slap a few hundred Specialized logos on 'em, forego the clearcoat, and sell 'em as a limited run. Pictures do not do them justice.

I'm just getting the frame and doing my own build-up. I hear the SRAM Red is an awesome gruppo and lighter, but Dura-Ace is tried-and-true. And the new Mavic R-Sys wheels are in my sights rather than the Rovals.

The latest article in Bicycling Magazine had a great write-up and and I reposted it on my site with a few more pics.

2008 Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL2

[Rob]

14.45 lbs, wow!

Those Mavic R-Sys wheels look awesome. I was watching the video they had at Interbike on them and they were really innovative.

[LBmtb]

With that much carbon, the force will be strong in this one. Too bad it'll be on a road bike though.

[Pho'dUp]

Originally Posted by CeeDubb

I was seriously contemplating getting the Pinerello Prince Carbon due to an awesome opportunity to get the frame for $4000.....

Awesome deal at $4000 for the frame!!.... I think I just had a heart attack.

Ok, still alive. Enjoy man, those are some lustworthy bikes. SRAM red components too?

Btw, I have a Carbon Specialized Roubaix that I absolutely LOVE.

[2wheel_lee]

I have an '07 Roubaix S-Works SRAM (Force), and I agree that the S-Works bikes rock! By the way, depending on the kind of riding you're doing, you may want to consider a Roubaix. But it sounds like you're getting a deal on the Tarmac.

The Roval wheels are a bit interesting. I've never had carbon rims before, but the wheels make an unusual - albeit subtle - hum when you're riding.

[Pain Freak]

I demo'ed both the Roubaix and the Tarmac, and I got to go with Lee on this one. I'd prefer the Roubaix because of the geometery. Although you seem to be more about overall speed, so the Tarmac may suit you better. These bikes are unbelieveable. It almost felt like a custom built bike to me. I still have my heart on the Colnago C50, but my second choice would have to be the S-Works Roubaix. I can't believe a big bike mfg can make so many damn fine bikes. I hate their marketing stradegy, but I love their bikes!

[S54MCoupe]

Great bike, for sure.

Congrats.

[CeeDubb]

Originally Posted by Pain Freak

I demo'ed both the Roubaix and the Tarmac, and I got to go with Lee on this one. I'd prefer the Roubaix because of the geometery. Although you seem to be more about overall speed, so the Tarmac may suit you better. These bikes are unbelieveable. It almost felt like a custom built bike to me. I still have my heart on the Colnago C50, but my second choice would have to be the S-Works Roubaix. I can't believe a big bike mfg can make so many damn fine bikes. I hate their marketing stradegy, but I love their bikes!

I remember when I got the Specialized 2008 catalog a few weeks ago. It was like porn...

The Roubaix SL was a great ride, but the Tarmac better suits my riding style. I'm a bit more aggressive and I have the bad habit of "chasing the rabbit" when someone in the group decides to take off.

A few weeks ago on our Sunday MV to HB ride someone thought they could get the jump on me on a sprint up the hill at Back Bay. No dice...I crushed him!

That same day I got a wild hair up my ass to sprint after a guy on a moped while going down PCH. Crushed him, too!!

As aggressive as I am, a crash will be inevitable...and crashing on a Prince Carbon will probably make me cry like a little baby.

[S54MCoupe]

Originally Posted by CeeDubb

As aggressive as I am, a crash will be inevitable...and crashing on a Prince Carbon will probably make me cry like a little baby.

I'm right there with you. There is something about the Prince that makes me feel like it should be displayed more than it's ridden, if that makes any sense (it probably doesn't, but it's such a damn work of art)

[roadkillross]

go madone