The rear end of this thing isn't far from a gravel bike in the amount of flex and rebound. It's pretty disconcerting. The concept is dumb in any instance, like if you've ever ridden a gravel bike the flex of the frame doesn't protect you from jarring surfaces, the flex and rebound just knocks you off your rhythm. I just built one of these with high expectations (coming from an SL-6) but have found a number of disappointments. They make their compatible and very cool (cable routing) "42" bars 41cm wide. Why? Now I have to go find actual 42 bars. The 3D Romin saddle is strangely wide in the middle and hits my inner thighs, otherwise a nice saddle. The frame is light and the bike is otherwise amazing to ride. My S-Works fandom has waned dramatically with the inexplicable choices in the newest version of the frame and accompanying components.

Like riding on a cloud in heaven, I am in love.

I recently purchased the Specialized SL8 and I'm beyond happy with my decision. I'm an avid cyclist, and have been looking for a bike that is lightweight, comfortable, and offers superior performance. The SL8 is all of those things and more. The lightweight frame along with Sram Force axis groupset make the bike so fast and responsive, and the geometry is comfortable for long rides. I couldn't be more pleased with my purchase. I would highly recommend this bike to anyone looking for a high-performance bike. The SL8 one of the best bike I've ever owned, and I'm sure it will serve me well for many years to come.

I recently upgraded from an SL7 pro to the SL8 Sworks. A noticeable leap in performance for the price. Overall weight saving from complete bike sram force to sram red, CLX wheels to CLX II and Roval cockpit from SL7 two piece unit almost 3lbs. More responsive on climbs, easier to maintain and achieve higher average speeds. SWorks SL7 to SWorks SL8 difference might be minor, but SL7 Pro to SL8 SWorks makes you smile more even during New England rain storms. (Ride 54 frame, 5,11ft).