How Does the Canyon Ultimate CFR Compare to the Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL8?

Question

I’m looking into the Canyon Ultimate CFR and the Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL8 models. What are their differences?

Answer 1

The Canyon Ultimate CFR looks to be a little more performance-centric as it adopts a one-piece aero cockpit design together with a stiffened head tube. This is the bike used by pro rider Matthias van der Poel besides the aerodynamic-focused Aeroad. It is said however, that the Ultimate CFR is marginally heavier than the Tarmac SL8 but also provides a more relaxed riding position and comes at an affordable price. It has also climbing specific wheels that do well on steeper climbs. The Tarmac SL8 on the other hand is more aggressive race-ready and faster across the board particularly on flat terrain because of its specific advanced wheel designs and strongly aero tube shapes.

Comments

I was kind of shocked Canyon kept essentially the same design on the Ultimate.  It looks quite dated to me and continues to look that way despite the update.  

Not only is the Specialized better performing, it just a much more attractive bike.  They say a clean bike is a ridden bike...I think a good looking bike is a ridden bike too.  Of course, it comes with a higher price tag.  Feels like there are a number of alternative All rounders that are better performing that the Ultimate, and better looking, I would go with if I didn't want the Tarmac - Addict RC, Orca Aero, Teammachine, versions of the SuperSix, etc.  

Also feels like you could buy the SL8 frame and build up how you like and save a few bucks vs the SWorks full build.  

If I were to buy a Canyon, it would would be the Aeroad, which I get isn't the point of this chat, but it it's a good looking bike.

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What a nonsensical comparison . Sl8 is much better, but it's much more expensive. It's more aero, lighter and has surpreme handling.

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Canyon Ultimate if it came down to budget, especially when you have the choice of a deeper rim aero wheelset for the same price. I'm still riding my 2017 Ultimate CF SL and am very happy with it. No issues apart from the broken Ultegra crank arm!

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The sl8 is a all around aero bike and the canyon is a climbing bike, I think it is better to look at what the sponsored teams ride, no canyon sponsored team rides the ultimate and every specialized team rides the sl8

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after reading all the comments I am now even more confused about whether to buy an sl7, sl8, or the new Canyon Aeroad CFR !!

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Deveria comparar sl8 X canyon CFR