Z5's are nice, but the one I rode wasn't sensational. It was stiff and nimble, but didn't wow me. Finishing is slightly better, but it reminds me of a bike that middle aged men get to be unique and condescending to those who ride larger brands whereas the SL4 comes in pretty heinous colors. My final verdict is to go with what looks better and is in your price range. Z5 has better graphics in my opinion since I haven't liked a single SL4 paintjob that I've seen all year so if it came down to cash I'd go with that.

I am sitting on the fence between a 2012 Specialized Tarmac S-Works SL4 or Parlee Z5 frame. My primary criteria is which frame will transfer power better...especially on out of saddle climbs. I'm not too concerned about comfort just raw power transfer. Any thoughts? Thank You.