If you want to, you obviously can also give your opinion on the esthetics (they are like opposites but i truly can appreciate both), but my main question is based on the specs.
The Tarmac is from 2019 / 2020, but new group set and cassette (both 2024) and carbon Fulcrum Speed 55T wheelset. Only used in racing matches, not when training. Rim brakes (which I care less about).
The Ultimate is probably 1 yr old, Sram rival AXS, DT-Swiss E1800 wheels, diskbrakes and powermeter.
I know it’s comparing apples with oranges, but I’m going to buy one of the two. Can’t decide. Any help, and what would you do?
by ExitOk9872
3 Comments
Edit: I live in the Netherlands, and therefore mostly cycle 2-3h flat, but I go to France every year and absolutely love the climbs
If they’re both similarly priced, I’d get the Canyon ultimate and it’s not even a close choice. Canyon 1000%. Disc brakes, completely wireless etap, bigger tire clearance, superior and confident braking. Sram hydraulic brakes are excellent. The Specialized looks to have last gen Di2? I’m not aware that there is a rim brake shimano 12 speed di2 for the latest gen.
Yes, it doesn’t come with carbon wheels, but I’d wager the alloy DT Swiss E1800s feel just as stiff as those carbon fulcrums. Thru-axle wheels flex less than quick release rim brake wheels. Those fulcrums are also expendable…one bad rainy descent with them and you can easily wear out the carbon brake track.
You mentioned giving opinions about aesthetics too…the s-works looks ugly as hell, sorry. I don’t mind pink at all, but that two-tone pick with the bright yellow s-works logo just looks horrible.
I would make sure that the DT-Swiss wheels are not on the recall list. [recall website](https://www.dtswiss.com/en/recall) I would not hassle with the wheel exchange myself.