The Specialized Tarmac SL9 is the next evolution of the sensational SL8, but there is an important difference when it comes to travelling with the bike.
The previous generation SL8 can be packed into a Buxumbox Ventoux with its handlebars attached, as they can rotate 101 degrees to the right. The new SL9 uses a steering stop that limits the movement of the fork and cockpit, preventing the bars from reaching the position required by the standard Ventoux mounting system. Although the steering stop itself is removable, doing so involves interfering with the headset assembly, so for most owners it is not something we would recommend doing each time they travel.
That makes the Buxumbox Aubisque our recommended box for the Specialized Tarmac SL9. It allows the bike to travel with the cockpit fully assembled and pointing straight ahead, with no need to remove the steering stop or disturb the headset. If you’re happy to remove the cockpit for travel, a Ventoux fitted with our straight mount kit is also an option.
Why the Tarmac SL9 is different
Specialized has made changes to the SL9’s front end in pursuit of improved aerodynamics. The head tube is narrower, the fork is deeper and the steerer is offset slightly to create space for the internally routed brake hoses. The complete S-Works bike is fitted with the one-piece Roval Rapide cockpit.
The new steerer design also includes a steering stop. That feature protects the frame, but it creates a limitation when packing the bike: unlike the SL8, the handlebars cannot rotate 101 degrees to the right, into the position required by the Ventoux mounting system.
This is the point most likely to catch out riders moving from an SL8. The two generations look similar and use closely related cockpit and headset hardware, but they do not pack in the same way. A Ventoux that suits an SL8 will not necessarily suit the new SL9.
Why the Aubisque suits the Tarmac SL9
The Aubisque does not require the handlebars to be rotated alongside the frame. Instead, the bike is mounted with its cockpit still attached and facing forwards.
That arrangement works with the SL9’s steering stop rather than trying to work around it. There is no need to force the bars beyond their intended range, remove the cockpit or interfere with the internally routed hydraulic hoses.
The wheels and seat post are removed, but the front end of the bike remains assembled. Once the frame is secured to the internal axle mounts, the cockpit stays in its normal position inside the wider upper section of the box.
We have confirmed the SL9 fits the Aubisque. However, if you're happy to remove your bars for travel, a Ventoux with a straight mount kit will enable your SL9 to be packed into it. You can add the straight mount kit from the accessories area when speccing your Ventoux.
No need to remove the integrated cockpit
Removing a conventional stem and handlebar is relatively straightforward. Removing a one-piece cockpit with fully internal routing is a different matter. It means loosening a key part of the bike’s fit, dealing with brake hoses that pass through the headset and rebuilding the front end correctly after every flight. Even when done carefully, it adds time and introduces more opportunities for bolts, spacers or cockpit positioning to be disturbed.
The Aubisque removes that job from the packing process. Your bar position, lever angle and cockpit setup remain as they were. At the destination, the bike needs considerably less rebuilding before it can be ridden. More time riding, less time unpacking.
This is particularly useful for riders travelling to races, training camps or events where time and workshop facilities may be limited.
Choosing the right bike travel case for your SL9
The Aubisque comes in four heights and two widths. The correct combination depends on the bike’s frame size, cockpit dimensions and any changes made from the original specification. Bikes built from framesets may use a different bar or cockpit. Owners should always measure their bikes for their boxes even when using the standard Roval cockpit, rather than selecting the box solely from the frame size.
For the previous Tarmac SL8, the Ventoux remains a suitable and more compact option where the bars can rotate through the required 101 degrees. For the Tarmac SL9, the steering stop necessitates a different approach if you want to travel with least fuss.
Whatever Buxumbox you're travelling with, you can travel stress-free knowing your Specialized is protected by 6061-T6 aerospace-grade aluminium.
Specialized SL9 images courtesy of Rhino's Workshop on Instagram.