The difference is in the frame. The S-Works bikes use a different carbon lay-up. The S-Works frames are lighter and stiffer.

The scale also proves the S-Works Tarmac SL4 to be very light with our 52cm tester coming in at just 6.64kg (14.64lb) without pedals – not bad when you consider the Dura-Ace Di2 group and Roval wheels to be light but not extremely so.

Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL7 in Review A clear Best in Test! The Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL7 is the fastest race bike of the 2021 season… It is in a league of its own on the flats… However, strong crosswinds give it a hard time and anyone who appreciates a little more comfort…

800 grams The S-Works SL7 frame weighs a claimed 800 grams. That's heavier than the 733 grams (claimed) of an SL6, but lighter than the 960 gram Venge. The complete S-Works SL7 with SRAM Red AXS that arrived at CT HQ weighs 6.73kg for a size 56.

With the S-Works Tarmac SL7, Specialized send a bike into the race that could be considered the prototype for the modern speed all-rounder. No other manufacturer in the test pursues the agenda of the one, true speed all-rounder so zealously, or offers just one model for all fast riding on asphalt.

It's all about how it's made, not where it's made these days. I don't have a Tarmac but my MTB is a S-Works Epic which is also made in Taiwan. This thing rides like dream and craftsmanship is simply superb. I believe all S-Works are made in the same factory in Taichung Taiwan.

733g With a weight of 733g in a size 56, the Tarmac could claim to be one of the lightest-ever aerodynamically orientated frames (30g lighter than Pinarello's F10 X-Light in a size 53).

The new Tarmac SL6 is the lightest frame Specialized has ever offered at 733 grams (size 56cm). It boasts new tube shapes and carbon layups as well as new compliance features.

From e-mountain bikes to World Tour winning endurance bikes, Specialized makes great options for every sort of rider. Specialized's history is wrapped in innovation. While that line also fuels a lot of the company's marketing, it also holds up. But before the innovation, there was a bike trailer.

Specialized Tarmac SL7 49cm 5.9kg.

Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc., colloquially known as and stylized as SPECIALIZED, is an American company that designs, manufactures and markets bicycles, bicycle components and related products under the brand name "Specialized", as well as the premium and professional oriented "S-works".

It is a very fast bike - not really intended as a more upright endurance bike. I love mine, endlessly comfortable even though I'm in a full long and low race position. I find mine to be quite chattery on poor road surfaces compared to my old Canyon.