The SL6 is maybe the last S-WORKS version of the Tarmac with rim brakes. This is really important for me because appearance is one of the things that matters for me all the same as performance.

This frame features the last iteration of the “classic rim brake” – “direct mount”.

Post as guidance? No warranty in ANY case of damage!

First of all was cleaning the calipers from the last season. To make things easier I will install the calipers without pads. To hold everything in its place I fixed the caliper with cable tips .The tape is to secure the caliper (maybe it will break up this time). Especially Direct Mount brakes are a bit fragile to mount, even with the assembly tool.

Then off on the scale. The total weight is 242.7 grams (-4 grams for the cable tips and tape).

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Now for the fun part… The installation of a direct mount brake is not as easy as the classic one-bolt version. Normally it should but in the reallife its not… The manual told you to mount it to the fork with a torque 0.5NM (hand tighten) first, then to pull out the assembly tool. Last step is the final torque of 5-7NM.

The first time my caliper started to collapse when I pulled out the assembly tool. This was a very… emotional time… But it worked out good, no scratches or something. This time it was easier with no problems at any time.

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I started on the front. First step is to put some Loctite 222 (purple) on the mounting bolts, just a drop.

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Now as the manual told you. Install the caliper hand tighten. The bolt must screwed in right before it touches the assembly tool.

First step done, now unplug the assembly tool. Clasp first, then the assembly plate. If everything is still, in position torque down the bolts to 5-7NM.

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After the front is finished it is time for the rear.

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On the back a carbon bridge is needed to support the frame. To hold everything in its place threaded sleeves are needed – of course titanium.

Weight on that kit is 9.8 grams… decent.

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The intallation on the back is a bit tricky. The sleeves must be hold in place while the bridge is pinned up. After that mount the caliper.

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Need a third and? Or fourth? Nope… I taped a 5mm Allen to the frame 😉 With this “hack” it is as easy as on the front. Tight the bolt nearly to the assembly tool and remove the clasp first, second the plate.

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The brake caliper installation is done after the final torque of 5-7NM is set to both bolts.

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