Carlos Sainz has taken a further step in his relationship with cycling.

The Formula 1 driver has presented together with Specialized Spain an exclusive version of the S-Works Tarmac SL8, a bike which has been meticulously customized to suit the needs of one of the world's most demanding athletes.

This collaboration has allowed the rider, who has been using Specialized bikes and accessories as part of his training for a year now, to give a personal touch to a machine designed for maximum performance.

Carlos Sainz's S-Works Tarmac SL8 is based on a “Ready To Paint” frame, a version that Specialized offers with a raw carbon finish, ready to be customized.

A design that reflects the essence of Carlos Sainz

The creation of the custom bike began with the idea that Carlos Sainz could capture your identity and style in an essential tool for your preparation.

To make it, Specialized resorted to Tyler Marchesano, Concept Paint Developer of the brand and responsible for some of the most iconic designs of recent times. Thanks to the collaboration with the team of Color-Monkey, a paint job was achieved that perfectly reflects the colors and details that Sainz wanted for his bike.

The frame used is a S-Works Tarmac SL8 “Ready To Paint”, a model known for its raw carbon finish and offering the possibility of customization at the highest level.

This frame is also one of the lightest and fastest on the market, weighing just 685 grams, making it ideal for those looking for an ultra-light bike that maximizes performance with every pedal stroke.

High-end components: uncompromising performance

Every detail of the bike has been carefully selected to achieve excellence. To do this, Carlos Sainz He did a bikefitting with the team of Specialized Madrid – Bikes 101, in the studio Body geometry fit, where all components were adjusted to their exact measurements.

Sainz's S-Works Tarmac SL8 is equipped with some of the most advanced components on the market.

Among them the wheels stand out Roval Rapide CLX II Team, which weigh only 1.350 grams and are designed to offer the best aerodynamic performance.

Furthermore, the Roval Rapide cockpit (with measurements 110×400) and the saddle S Works Power with technology Mirror 155mm complement the assembly, providing a perfect balance between speed and comfort.

In collaboration with SRAM, the new group has also been set up RED AXS, which guarantees maximum precision and reliability in every change.

S-Works Tarmac SL8 Highlights

The S-Works Tarmac SL8 is renowned for its combination of aerodynamics, light weight and ride quality. The frame, made from FACT 12r carbon, weighs approximately 685 grams, making it one of the lightest in its class.

Additionally, the bike features world championship-proven geometry and clearance for tires up to 32mm, offering versatility and adaptability to different road conditions.

To ensure optimal performance, the bike is equipped with top-of-the-line components:

• Roval Rapide CLX II Team Wheels: Weighing 1.350 grams, they offer an ideal combination of lightness and rigidity.
• Roval Rapide Cockpit: Configured in 110×400 dimensions, it provides superior aerodynamics and control.
• S-Works Power saddle with Mirror technology: 155mm, ensures comfort and support during long training sessions.
• SRAM RED AXS Groupset: Offers precise and efficient electronic shifting, suitable for the demands of high-performance cycling.

Available Models and Prices

Specialized offers the S-Works Tarmac SL8 in a variety of configurations to suit every rider's preference:

S-Works Tarmac SL8 – SRAM RED AXS: Equipped with the SRAM RED AXS groupset and Roval Rapide CLX II wheels, it is designed for those seeking maximum performance. From €14.500,00

S-Works Tarmac SL8 – Shimano Dura-Ace Di2: Features the Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 groupset and Roval Rapide CLX II wheels, offering a high-quality option with renowned components. From €14.00,00

S-Works Tarmac SL8 Frame: For those who want to customize their bike from scratch, Specialized offers the frame separately, allowing for a bespoke setup. From €5.500

Carlos Sainz and his relationship with cycling

Carlos Sainz has found in cycling a perfect complement to his physical preparation for Formula 1.

This sport allows you to accumulate hours of training without the impact of other exercises, which is essential to stay in top shape while minimizing the risk of injury.

Over the past year, we've seen him ride different versions of the S-Works Tarmac SL8 in places as diverse as Monaco, Madrid, or even on Formula 1 circuits around the world.

The custom bike also reflects the meticulous spirit of Carlos Sainz, who, as in his single-seater, seeks to optimize every detail to achieve the best possible performance.

The project of the S-Works Tarmac SL8 customized for Carlos Sainz highlights the ability to Specialized to adapt to the specific needs of each cyclist.