01/01/2024
CERVELO S5 DURA ACE DI2 VS CERVELO R5 DURA ACE DI2
In the world of high-performance cycling, the Cervelo R5 and S5 stand as formidable competitors, each boasting unique features and design philosophies. The R5, known for its lightweight and climbing prowess, appeals to riders seeking agility and efficiency on steep ascents. In contrast, the S5, with its aerodynamic design, caters to those prioritizing speed and performance in flat or rolling terrains.
The Cervelo R5 and S5 are designed for different types of cycling events, each excelling in environments that complement their unique features:
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Cervelo R5:
- Hill Climbs and Mountain Stages: The R5's lightweight design makes it ideal for events that include significant elevation gains, such as hill climb races or mountainous stages of multi-day road races.
- Gran Fondos: These long-distance road races often feature varied terrain, including hills where the R5's climbing efficiency would be advantageous.
- Stage Races: In multi-stage events, especially those with mountainous or hilly profiles, the R5's agility and climbing capability can provide a competitive edge.
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Cervelo S5:
- Time Trials and Triathlons: (if a TT bike is not available) The S5, with its aerodynamic design, excels in time trials and triathlon bike segments where speed and aerodynamic efficiency are crucial.
- Flat and Rolling Road Races: The aerodynamic advantages of the S5 make it a strong contender in races with predominantly flat or rolling terrain.
- Criteriums: These short, fast-paced races often held on closed circuit tracks can benefit from the S5's speed and handling in corners.
Both bikes are versatile and can be used in a variety of cycling events, but their specialized designs make them particularly well-suited for these specific types of races.
Jump to conclusion
1. Price | Weight | Material
2. Frame and Fork
3. Drivetrain
4. Brakes
5. Wheels and Tyres
6. Cockpit and Seat
7. Conclusion
In closing, it's fair to note that both the Cervelo S5 and R5 are more than mere contenders in the pro peloton; they are seasoned veterans with Tour de France victories casually tucked into their palmarès.
The S5 stands as the undisputed lord of aerodynamics, while the R5 plays the role of the featherweight jack-of-all-trades in the racing world. The question is, which of these two wheeled titans aligns with your cycling aspirations?
Both the S5 and R5 feature identical top of the range Shimano Dura Ace Di2 groupsets.... and the price reflects this!
Visually, the S5's most striking feature is its unique V stem arrangement. It's a design that divides opinion, but it's purported to be more aerodynamic. Observing the bike's performance under the Jumbo-Visma team riders in various races, it's hard to contest its effectiveness.
The R5 opts for classic tube shapes, steering clear of the dropped seat stays craze. Meanwhile, the S5 takes a bolder approach with its stretched-out aero tubes, carefully toeing the line of UCI regulations.
Geometry-wise, the S5 in a size 56 trims 12mm off the wheelbase compared to its R5 counterpart. It also ducks 7mm lower in stack, stretches 3mm further in reach, and sits 0.5 degrees steeper in head angle. Not to mention, it's perched 2mm higher at the bottom bracket and shortens the chainstays by 5mm. All these tweaks likely contribute to a snappier feel than the R5.
The S5's distinctive seat tube, arching around the rear wheel, echoes the aerodynamic legacy of designer Gerard Vroomen. Although he may not have directly designed the S5, his influence from his time at Cervelo is evident and continues to inspire designs like the 3T Strada.
Regrettably, Cervelo remains tight-lipped about the weights of their bikes, a stark contrast to brands like Specialized, who've started disclosing this information. It's a bit of a missed beat by Cervelo, really. This lack of transparency makes it challenging to discern the exact weight difference between the two models. Come on, Cervelo, join the party!
So, you've got a cool £11,699.00 smoldering in your pocket and you're wondering which marvel to spend it on - the R5 or the S5. As is the way with all things cycling, it's a matter of horses for courses. Each bike boasts its standout features, yet each also asks you to make some concessions elsewhere. The key lies in assessing the terrain and the style of riding you most often engage in. Once you've got that sorted, the choice should become a bit clearer. Choose wisely!
The bottom line is straightforward: if your local terrain is more akin to a mountain range or peppered with hills, the R5 is your go-to. On the other hand, if you're surrounded by stretches of flat land, the S5 is your clear choice.
For my part, if I were in the market for a Cervelo, I'd lean towards the R5. Given my tendency to lag behind on the hills, I could use all the assistance I can get, and the R5 seems just the ticket for that uphill boost!