The Specialized Tarmac Expert Compact
Photo ©: James Huang
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The Tarmac is a race bike through and through
Photo ©: James Huang
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Among the improvements from the previous version
Photo ©: James Huang
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Paired to the tapered head tube
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Of course, there is plenty of material around the bottom bracket
Photo ©: James Huang
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The down tube, seat tube, and chain stays make good use
Photo ©: James Huang
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The seat tube transitions from a round profile up top
Photo ©: James Huang
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The chunky chain stays are matched to slim seat stays.
Photo ©: James Huang
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A slender wishbone is used up top -
Photo ©: James Huang
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The chain stays are decidedly tall and thick.
Photo ©: James Huang
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A small plate behind the chainrings
Photo ©: James Huang
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The beefy chain stays and slim seat stays
Photo ©: James Huang
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The top tube flows straight into the seat stays.
Photo ©: James Huang
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Specialized is openly against the idea of integrated seatposts.
Photo ©: James Huang
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The tall aluminum collar offers a solid hold
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Registered graphics offer a nicely integrated look
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We continue to be impressed by the performance value
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The compact gearing comes in handy
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Even with the wide 12-27T spread
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The 'ice grey' finish on Ultegra SL lends a high-end look.
Photo ©: James Huang
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The braze-on front derailleur is clamped
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Cornering on the Specialized Mondo Pro tires
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The included Ultegra wheelset is a good mid-level choice
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Hub-located nipples are also harder to deal with
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We were at odds with the handlebar bend
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The Specialized Pro-Set stem affords multiple angles
Photo ©: James Huang
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Even the graphics on the stem and top cap are coordinated.
Photo ©: James Huang
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