Specialized launches Roubaix SL8 – the lightest and most aero yet

Just a month after launching the latest version of its flagship road bike, the Tarmac SL8, Specialized is back at it again with an all-new Roubaix SL8.

The endurance road bike was first launched over two decades ago and Specialized is confident that this version is the smoothest, fastest, and safest yet, thanks to its Future Shock 3.0 technology. The American manufacturer claims it results in a force reduction of 53% over typical impacts versus the next best endurance road bike on the market.

Not only does the new Roubaix offer a smoother ride, it is also the lightest and most-aerodynamic version yet. The S-Works Roubaix weighs in at 7.3kg straight out of the box.

A fresh fork design, a reimagined downtube shape, and dropped seat stays also shave off watts, helping the Roubaix SL8 to be 11 seconds faster over 100km.

Specialized's tagline for its new release is 'Hell Below, Heaven above', since regardless of the challenging conditions on the road, the Roubaix SL8 provides unmatched confidence.

The all-new Future Shock 3.0

© Specialized

The Future Shock 3.0 system provides unrivalled impact reduction.

After arriving on the scene in 2016, the Future Shock system has already proven its weight in gold by aiding the winner of both the 2018 and 2019 editions of Paris-Roubaix. Positioned between the stem and head tube, it travels in the opposite direction to forces hitting the wheel and being sent up the fork legs. This reduces bar vibration and keeps the bike stable - with a 53% force reduction compared to competitors elsewhere on the market.

The Future Shock 3.0 also offers riders the ability to fine tune their ride with 20mm of stiction-free travel available. Three different springs come as standard with the bike, allowing for the setup to be easily but drastically altered at home in a matter of minutes. The 3.3 model also allows for easy in-the saddle adjustability of the compression.

AfterShock provides all-round ride comfort

Alongside the Future Shock system in the cockpit, Specialized's Paveì seatpost and Dropped Clamp design form its AfterShock technology. The Paveì seatpost has a carbon layup which reduces the vibrations reaching you in the saddle. Meanwhile, the 65mm-lower than standard seatpost clamp allows the Roubaix SL8 to offer the maximum amount of rear deflection for a smoother ride.

© Specialized

The AfterShock system provides the perfect partner for Specialized's Future Shock 3.0.

More features, less weight

Despite shaving off over 50 grams from the frame weight, Specialized has still found a way to add additional mounting points and greater tyre clearance (up to 40mm) to the Roubaix SL8.

Four watts' worth of drag have been shaved thanks to an optimised leading edge whilst improved designs of its forks, downtube and seat stays mean that it remains as one of the best in class for aerodynamics. Specialized boasts a saving of 11 seconds during a 100km ride averaging three W/kg of rider power.

The latest version of the Roubaix also sees an improved bottom bracket, with an upgrade to 12r carbon, saving weight and improving ride quality.

© Specialized

The Roubaix SL8 offers tyre clearance up to 38c/40mm.

Pricing

The top-of-the-range S-Works model, fitted with Future Shock 3.3, a SRAM Red groupset and weighing just 7.3kg, will set you back £12,000. Meanwhile, the Pro model comes in at £8,000 with Future Shock 3.3 too but at a weight of 8.1kg.

A number of other Roubaix SL8 models are available too, starting at £2,500 for the base model.

Specialized

Specialized is a bike manufacturer based in California, USA. The company produces bicycles and components for a wide variety of cycling disciplines. Specialized also sells a range of premium products under its S-works brand.