The fastest bike just got faster – The new Cervélo S5

• Posted on 11 July 2025
• By Michael Belair
• Posted in Cervelo, New S5, S5
• 0

The fastest bike just got faster – The new Cervélo S5 proves itself on and off the race course.

In a world of standalone flagship road bikes that seek to strike a delicate balance between low weight and aerodynamic performance, the Cervélo S5 remains a fascinating outlier. Rather than compromising on aerodynamic gains in the pursuit of weight savings—as many manufacturers do—Cervélo has boldly reimagined what’s possible, doubling down on aero efficiency while also achieving a significant reduction in weight over the previous generation.

The latest iteration of the Cervélo S5 capitalizes on the updated UCI regulations, which allow for more aggressive tube shaping and deeper profiles. The new frame features a substantially deeper head tube, an enlarged fork, and reworked seatstay and downtube shapes—all aimed at slicing through air more efficiently. Topping off the frame is an all-new one-piece integrated cockpit that not only looks strikingly clean but also enhances stiffness and aerodynamics. The result is a machine that builds upon the legacy of its predecessor—hailed as “the fastest bike of the modern era”—and pushes it even further.

Traditionally, reducing weight in an aero platform comes at the cost of frame stiffness, but Cervélo challenges that paradigm. The new S5 is not only lighter than its predecessor but also boasts improved lateral and torsional stiffness, delivering sharper handling and a more direct power transfer. At the same time, it provides greater vertical compliance, making it more comfortable for long days in the saddle—especially critical during grueling stage races. The geometry remains unchanged from the previous S5, a nod to its already near-universal acclaim among riders of varying disciplines. This ensures a seamless transition for those upgrading from older models, while preserving the bike’s inherently aggressive yet versatile race-oriented fit.

Enhancing the S5’s all-out speed credentials is the latest Reserve 57|64 carbon wheelset. Developed alongside the frame, these wheels feature an asymmetrical, deep-dish profile with bladed spokes designed to maximize aerodynamic stability across variable yaw angles. They’re laced to DT Swiss hubs for exceptional rolling efficiency and durability. Much like the frame itself, these wheels embody the same design philosophy: uncompromising aerodynamic performance, improved stiffness, and reduced weight, all working together to minimize drag and maximize forward momentum.

What truly sets Cervélo apart, however, is its relentless commitment to real-world performance. Instead of relying solely on traditional, wind-tunnel-optimized testing under pristine conditions, Cervélo employs a more nuanced and realistic methodology known as Turbulent Aero testing. This approach simulates imperfect, real-world wind conditions—crosswinds, gusts, and variable angles—to better mimic what riders actually encounter on the road. It’s a recognition that the world isn’t a wind tunnel, and that every design choice must serve a purpose when the conditions are anything but ideal.

In an era where most brands play it safe, the Cervélo S5 is a bold statement of intent. It proves that speed doesn’t have to come at the expense of comfort, nor must aerodynamics come with a weight penalty. By reimagining what an aero bike can be, Cervélo has crafted a Grand Tour-worthy machine that isn’t just about chasing marginal gains—it’s about redefining what’s possible in elite-level race engineering. Whether you’re battling crosswinds in the high mountains or sprinting to the finish on flat terrain, the new S5 delivers a decisive advantage. It isn’t just fast—it’s the future of performance road cycling.