This year, I treated myself to a Specialized Tarmac SL8 Pro in size 49. Here are some thoughts on setting up this beauty.
First and foremost, getting a professional bike fitting is absolutely essential. Ideally, you should aim for a fitting at least once a year. This process provides an incredibly objective and rational assessment of any issues that might arise during your rides, along with actionable tips to enhance your performance and comfort!
Secondly, choose a bike that truly excites you! As a long-time fan of Specialized, I finally took the plunge and purchased the Tarmac SL8 Pro I’d been dreaming about for ages. Let’s be honest—it was a decision driven purely by passion.
Setting up your dream bike is surprisingly straightforward, though it does require some careful consideration. Start by selecting the three core components: the frame, the groupset, and the wheels. These form the foundation of your ride. From there, personalize your setup with finer details like an integrated handlebar, crank, chainring, and saddle.
And here’s where I must reiterate the importance of a fitting—after completing one, many dimensions can be precisely determined, allowing you to tailor your choices within your budget.
For those curious, I’ve included my full configuration list below, complete with prices and weights.
La la la~ Honestly, I’m head over heels in love with this bike! It’s simply stunning. When you find something you adore, it’s only natural to want to share it with the world.
Maeve Stephens 
Adam Stone 
Lucas Ferguson
I’ve been eyeing the SL8 Pro for a while now—7.2 kg is insanely light! Your fitting advice is spot-on; it made a huge difference in my last bike setup too. It’s cool to see how much attention to detail goes into building a proper bare bike. Looking forward to hearing more about your component choices!