For 2023 Cervelo made an adjustment to one of our best-selling gravel race bikes, with an upgrade to a Reserve 40|44 wheelset. With this platform, with SRAM delivering the gravel specific XPLR series of components, Cervelo developed this premium Aspero-5 frameset into a sleek, wireless shifting, 1x12 complete bike. For many gravel racers, this Aspero-5 Force XPLR AXS 1 becomes the new bike obsession with the goal to ride it to maximum potential- for good reason. The combination of superb power transfer, stable control, and impressive ride quality provided by the Aspero-5 frameset matches the reliability and cost effectiveness of the Force eTap AXS HRD groupset- and you are the beneficiary.

The Aspero-5 Frameset retains the popular, proven Aspero geometry and Trail Mixer fork chip system, as well as an appearance with tube shapes that are largely the same. A closer inspection indicates a fully internal wiring and housing system, and a refined headtube. The Aspero-5 has the C-shaped fork steerer tube design seen on other 5-series bikes, which in combination with the included Carbon AB09 16° Flared Carbon Handlebar and Cervelo ST32 Alloy Stem, work with the steerer and the frame to bring the routing internal from the levers back. An All-Carbon Tapered Aspero Fork with Adjustable Trail and headtube shape offer refined aerodynamics, enhanced by the internal routing. Not only is a completed bike visually clean- but faster. Cervelo's internal testing measures aero improvement at 32G of reduced drag over the standard Aspero.

Cervelo made some intelligent choices, such as carrying over the 27.2mm round seatpost, which offers the rider more options, including the opportunity to run a dropper post. The Aspero-5 includes the compliant carbon Cervelo SP19 27.2mm seatpost. Again, given this is a race oriented bike, the frame and fork deliver clearance necessary for 650b x 51mm tires, or 700c x 43mm tires with at least 4mm on either side to spare. Cervelo is cognizant that for many of the longest, harshest events were capability and speed must be balanced with bike control, many racers will opt for 650b/27.5" wheels and may also want a dropper post. The overall key to any set-up choice is maintaining the proper geometry for excellent handling.

The engineers were particularly focused on making sure the Aspero models handled properly. Cervelo is using their Trail Mixer system to allow the rider to keep effective fork Trail at 62mm. Larger variations in tire size effect the rearward position of the tire- affecting handling and toe-overlap clearance. By using off center, bolt-in 12mm thru-axle drop outs, the rider can select the +5 forward position or the -5 rear position of the axle. With a 700x42 gravel tire set-up, the +5mm forward is the proper position for best active handling and nimble bike control. If you moved it to the -5mm rearward position, it would slow the handling down, perhaps better for long, flat rides on firmer, smoother, less technical surfaces. Cervelo has a more complete explanation of the mechanically simple Trail Mixer system on their website.

What is amazing about geometry of the Aspero is that isn't road-like, but it feels like a more natural transition from a road bike than most gravel race designs. The handling speed and control are there, and the toptube measurements are longer, with the frame center of gravity pushed back a little, while a shorter length stem is used to control the front end. When you take it out on the road, perhaps to transition to your gravel access, the Aspero-5 won't feel awkward or uncomfortable, yet it will handle gravel and even twisty singletrack with aplomb.

Along with complete Force XPLR eTap AXS bicycle, Cervelo also adds several of their accessories, including the Stem Faceplate Computer/Accessory mount, Rear Accessory Mount, and Smartpak 400A Top Tube Storage Bag.