You’re probably wondering, “Is the Cervelo S5 the high-performance beast it’s hyped up to be, or just another pricey toy for the two-wheeled elite?” You’re not alone in this. The buzz around this bike is louder than a peloton descending the Alps, and it’s time to separate fact from fanfare.
Hey there, speed enthusiasts and cycling purists alike—Paul Zaldivar here. With nearly ten years of triathlon and countless hours in the saddle, I’ve turned my passion for cycling into a full-time obsession. Together with my team, we’ve put the Cervelo S5 under the microscope, not just running it through the mill but dissecting every aspect of what makes it tick.
What’s up ahead? A deep dive into the S5’s soul. We’ve scrutinized every detail, from its wind-cheating silhouette to its road-commanding performance. We’ll tell you straight—where it soars, where it settles, and for whom it’s genuinely crafted.
So, strap on your helmet and embark on this ride together. By the end, you’ll know whether the Cervelo S5 deserves a spot in your garage—or if your cycling dreams are better chased on another steed.
Let’s roll.
Preview of What’s to Come
Snapshot Review: The Cervelo S5 at First Sight
| Performance | [star_bar stars=”4.5″ color=”#00fd04″] |
| Comfort | [star_bar stars=”4″ color=”#00fd04″] |
| Value for Money | [star_bar stars=”4″ color=”#00fd04″] |
| Aesthetics | [star_bar stars=”4.5″ color=”#00fd04″] |
Pros
Speed Demon: The S5 isn’t just fast; it’s lightning in a bottle. If you blink, you might miss it zooming by.
Aerodynamics Masterclass: Every curve and contour is designed to slice through the air with the precision of a well-aimed arrow.
Rigidity Meets Control: Stiffness in all the right places ensures your power translates directly to pavement-pounding performance.
Handling that Hugs Curves: Negotiate bends and turns with the confidence of a seasoned pilot.
Comfort Over the Long Haul: Long rides don’t have to be a pain—literally.
Front End Simplified: A clutter-free cockpit for a streamlined ride and aesthetic.
Top-Tier Build Spec: Only the best build quality because your bike should be as elite as your ambitions.
Cons
Premium Price Tag: Excellence doesn’t come cheap—this superbike is for those who see cycling as an investment, not just a hobby.
Heftiness: It’s got a bit more weight, but every gram is packed with performance.
Saddle Rail Clamps: Adjustability has limits, so if you’re particular about your position, take note.
Best for
The experienced rider who laughs in the face of headwinds and dreams of breakaways and finish lines. This is for those who prioritize performance and aerodynamics and are ready to invest in top-level gear.
Not for
Beginners who are just getting their wheels spinning, riders keeping an eye on their wallet, or those who prefer a featherlight touch to their bikes.
Remember, the Cervelo S5 isn’t just a bike; it’s a statement—a testament to what happens when you refuse to compromise on speed and style. Whether you’re an aspiring pro or a seasoned racer, the Cervolo S5 is a machine that can match your enthusiasm for the pavement.
Stay tuned in the following sections as we break down what these points mean for you and your ride.
Rigorous Trials: Our Method for Dissecting the S5
Are you curious about how we put the Cervelo S5 through its paces? Here’s the lowdown on our rigorous testing routine, designed to scrutinize every aspect of this high-octane machine:
What We Measured on the S5
- Weight: We weighed the S5 tick for tick against its market rivals with a precision digital scale.
- Aerodynamics: The bike faced the gales of a wind tunnel, where we dissected its drag and translated that into watts saved at cruising speeds.
- Stiffness: We flexed the S5’s muscles by applying a calibrated force to the bottom bracket, observing its deflection, and then took it to the streets, challenging it with gradients and varied surfaces.
- Handling: A real-world road trial on flats, rolls, and climbs assessed its agility, from tight cornering to aggressive sprinting and abrupt stops.
Varied Terrains for the Ultimate S5 Test
- Terrain: A mixed bag – flatlands that demand speed, rolling terrains that test tenacity, and climbs that call for power.
- Weather: We battled headwinds and flirted with downpours, ensuring this bike could handle whatever the sky threw down.
- Distance and Speed: From short sprints to long hauls, we clocked significant miles at speeds that would make your heart race.
Whether you’re dissecting the raw numbers or sizing up the subjective feel of the ride, our methodology ensures you get a 360-degree view of the Cervelo S5. And we didn’t stop there – we pitted the S5 against the best in its category to see where it stands in the pantheon of aero road bikes.
Next up, we dive deep into the findings of our tests, so gear up for an in-depth analysis that will help you decide if the Cervelo S5 is the road companion you’ve been seeking.
The Full Breakdown: Cervelo S5 Reviewed its Performance!
The S5’s Design and Tech Breakdown
The Design:
The Cervelo S5 isn’t just a bike; it’s a moving sculpture. Every inch is crafted to conquer wind resistance—the deep truncated aerofoil tube shapes, the groundbreaking V-shaped stem that unites with the handlebar and fork, and the seat tube that seems to embrace the rear wheel.
It’s a marvel of carbon fiber engineering that looks as fast as it rides.
The Geometry:
Aggressive. Aerodynamic. Awe-inspiring. The S5’s geometry is all about pushing the envelope—with a low stack, a long reach, and a short head tube, it’s built for riders who dare to lean into speed.
The Components:
- SRAM Force eTap AXS Groupset: Electronic shifting that’s as smooth as silk, as precise as a metronome.
- Hydraulic Disc Brakes: Braking that’s as reliable as the sunrise, giving you the control you deserve.
- Zipp 404 Firecrest Carbon Wheels: The epitome of stability and speed, a true ally against the clock.
The Numbers:
- Weight: At 7.8 kg for a size 56, it’s not featherlight, but every gram is there for a reason—to deliver uncompromised performance.
- Aerodynamics: Claiming 42 watts saved at 40 km/h, it’s like a free ticket to the fast lane.
- Stiffness: A bottom bracket deflection measuring a mere 120 N/mm turns your efforts into speed with enviable efficiency.
- Handling: Whether navigating the urban maze or racing down open roads, the S5’s handling is responsive and forgiving, ensuring every ride is a joy.
The S5’s Triumphs in the Saddle
The Champions’ Choice:
- Wout van Aert: His Points Classification score in the 2022 Tour de France wasn’t an accident. It was a statement powered by the S5.
- Marianne Vos: At the Ghent–Wevelgem Classic, Vos didn’t just ride; she ruled, thanks to the S5’s relentless performance.
- Jonas Vingegaard: Finishing second in the 2022 Tour de France is a testament to the S5’s ability to elevate greatness.
These athletes not only rode the S5 but also harnessed its essence to achieve extraordinary feats. It’s a bike that doesn’t just participate; it dominates.
Who’s Meant for the S5?
Tailor-Made For:
The Cervelo S5 is a dream machine for the experienced rider whose heart beats for the thrill of speed. It’s crafted for those who understand that aerodynamics and stiffness translate to the currency of victory in competitive cycling.
If you’re the rider who relishes in the rush of a criterium, the strategy of positioning, and the explosive power of a sprint finish, the S5 is your choice.
Picture yourself on this bike, leading the peloton or breaking away on a long, flat stretch where every watt saved propels you closer to the finish line. The S5 is for the discerning rider who demands a bike that responds with precision in a fast-paced group ride, helping to slice through the wind and conserve energy for that final, race-winning move.
Not The Ideal Fit For:
Beginners still getting the feel of the road beneath their wheels or those who meticulously balance their cycling passion with budget constraints might find the S5 an overwhelming choice.
It’s not just about the price tag but the commitment this bike demands and deserves. If your rides are more about the joy of the journey than the speed of the sprint, or if you’re navigating the steep pitches and elevations where a lightweight climber reigns supreme, then the S5 may not align with your cycling narrative.
Imagine taking a grand touring car to a rugged off-road rally – the S5 is simply not designed for those leisurely Sunday hill climbs or the casual ride around the park. It craves speed, thrives on competition, and is built for performance.
What to Know Before Buying the S5
What You Need to Know:
The Cervelo S5 isn’t a one-size-fits-all. It comes in several models to cater to various performance needs and aesthetic preferences:
- Cervelo S5 SRAM Force eTap AXS: The premium model with top-tier electronic shifting and carbon wheels – a hefty, around $10,000 investment for those who settle for nothing but the best.
- Cervelo S5 Shimano Ultegra Di2: A notch below with reliable electronic shifting, priced at around $8,500 for the performance-oriented rider.
- Cervelo S5 Shimano Ultegra: The mechanical shifting variant for the pragmatists, available at around $6,500.
- Cervelo S5 Frameset: The frame and fork alone cost around $4,500 for tinkerers and custom-build lovers.
Each purchase comes with a lifetime frame and fork warranty, reflecting the brand’s confidence in its engineering. Additionally, a two-year coverage on paint and decals is included, guarding your bike’s aesthetic as fiercely as its performance.
The Cervelo S5 isn’t just a purchase; it’s a pact with performance. It’s a statement of intent that you are here to ride, to race, and to revel in the sheer joy of cycling at its most exhilarating.
Seek Alternatives: What Else Rivals the S5’s Pedigree?
For those who find that the Cervelo S5 doesn’t quite match their cycling aspirations or budget, fear not—there are other steeds in the stable of aero road bikes that may catch your eye and meet your needs.
Let’s explore some of the worthy contenders.
Trek Madone
Why Consider the Madone?
- Adjustable Comfort: The IsoSpeed decoupler is Trek’s ace, offering customizable compliance to absorb the rough patches of the road without sacrificing the aero advantage.
- Clever Storage: Integrated storage tucks away your ride essentials, blending convenience with the bike’s sleek lines.
- Weight and Cost: If your wallet and gravity are your concerns, the Madone tips the scales in your favor, being lighter on both accounts than the S5.
- Price: Expect to invest around $9,000 for a Madone decked out with SRAM Force eTap AXS and Bontrager Aeolus Pro 5 wheels.
Scott Foil
Why Scott Foil Might Be Your Ride:
- Integrated Cockpit: The Syncros system isn’t just for show; it shaves off weight and wind resistance, offering a seamless interface between you and the bike.
- Comfort in the Saddle: The Syncros Belcarra is designed for comfort and your health, ensuring blood flow and support on those long rides.
- Balance of Features: While it may not boast the same aerodynamic supremacy as the S5, its lighter frame and price tag make it a compelling option.
- Price: A complete setup with SRAM Force eTap AXS and Syncros Capital 1.0 50 wheels is around $7,500.
Cannondale SystemSix
When to Choose SystemSix?
- Custom Fit: Cannondale’s KNØT system isn’t just about sleek looks; it allows you to fine-tune your riding position.
- Quick Wheel Changes: The Speed Release system simplifies maintenance and wheel swaps, a boon for riders who double as their support crew.
- Price for Performance: While it may not be the lightest or the most aerodynamic, its competitive price makes it a strong contender in the aero bike category.
- Price: A SystemSix with SRAM Force eTap AXS and HollowGram 64 SL KNØT wheels will set you back about $8,000.
Each bike has unique selling points, balancing the trifecta of aerodynamics, stiffness, and rider comfort. They each respond to different rider priorities, whether it’s the Madone’s adjustability, the Foil’s integrated finesse, or the value proposition of the SystemSix. Consider the pros and cons, align them with your cycling goals, and you’ll find the right partner for your road adventures.
The Creation Chronicle: The Visionaries Behind the S5
Inside the Minds Creating the S5
In the quest to peel back the layers of the Cervelo S5, we sought the stories straight from the source.
Graham Shrive, Cervelo’s Director of Engineering, is a visionary who has steered the course of some of the most iconic bikes in the peloton. With over a decade at Cervelo, Shrive has a wealth of experience, from the climb-conquering R5 to the time-trialing P5 and the versatile Caledonia.
He gave us an exclusive peek behind the curtain of the S5’s development.
Inspiration and Aspirations:
“The Cervelo S5 was born from a single-minded ambition: to craft the fastest, most aerodynamic road bike conceivable,” Shrive says. “Our goal was to satisfy the exacting standards of the pros—riders who will settle for nothing less than the pinnacle of performance. We envisioned a bike that could dominate any race scenario—a furious sprint, a daring breakaway, or an arduous mountain stage.”
Design Challenges:
Shrive recounts the hurdles with an engineer’s precision and an artist’s passion. “The greatest challenge was harmonizing the aerodynamics, weight, stiffness, and comfort quartet. It was a symphony of technology—CFD, FEA, relentless wind tunnel, and real-world testing—to refine the S5’s form. Collaboration with partners like SRAM, Zipp, and Continental was key to achieving seamless integration of components.” He adds, “The feedback from titans of the road, such as Wout van Aert, Marianne Vos, and Jonas Vingegaard, was invaluable—they were our toughest critics and greatest validators.”
Proudest Achievements:
Shrive’s pride is palpable as he discusses the triumphs. “We pushed the boundaries of aerodynamics and stiffness, but I’m most proud of the S5’s ride quality—often sacrificed in aero bikes. And then there’s the V-shaped stem—our hallmark of innovation—which cuts through the air and embodies the bike’s aesthetic ethos.”
With each answer, Shrive paints a picture of a team united by a relentless pursuit of excellence—a bike not just designed but destined to break conventions and records.
Peer Perspectives on the S5
The cycling community’s voice is a chorus that can’t be ignored. We turned to our readers, your fellow cyclists, for their take on the Cervelo S5. Through polls and comment sections, they’ve echoed the sentiments of the pros—praising the S5’s unrivaled speed and handling while also discussing the steep investment it represents.
“It’s like riding the future,” says one enthused commenter, while another pragmatically notes, “It’s a masterpiece, but one that comes at a masterpiece’s price.”
This section isn’t just about the bike; it’s about the collective experience of those who ride it. It’s about a shared passion that transcends individual reviews, creating a narrative as dynamic and evolving as the riders.
The Finish Line Awaits
As we coast to a stop on this exhaustive journey, the essence of the Cervelo S5 has been laid bare. It’s a symphony of speed, a testament to technology, and a beacon for those who seek the pinnacle of performance. With its aerodynamic prowess, commanding stiffness, and a ride quality that speaks of long hours in the lab and on the road, the S5 isn’t just a bike—it’s a declaration of what cycling at its finest can be.
This is for the trailblazers, the draft defiers, the podium placers—those who hear the call of the tarmac and respond with unwavering resolve. The Cervelo S5 is more than a choice; it’s a commitment to pursue the zenith of your potential.
And now, it’s over to you. Will you step up to the starting line with the machine crafted for champions?
Will you choose the path of uncompromised excellence? If your pulse quickens at the thought of slicing through the wind, of every watt translating into unbridled speed, then the answer is clear.
Claim your Cervelo S5. Embrace the ride. Chase the horizon. It’s not just about owning a superbike; it’s about unleashing the spirit of victory within you. Let your legacy be defined by the power of your pedal stroke and the breadth of your ambition.
As we catch our breath at the culmination of this review, let the Cervelo S5 be your chariot to glory.
The road beckons, the crowd anticipates, and victory awaits.
Ride on!
