The engineers were particularly focused on making sure the Aspero handled properly regardless of wheel and tire size, without compromising the headtube angle. The concept of fork "Trail" is best known in the mountain bike world, but is relevant across all cycling. Cervelo is using what they call their Trail Mixer system to allow the rider to keep effective 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, which is what faster, race-oriented users want on more technical surfaces. 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. The principles of Trail set-up come down to the outside diameter of a mounted tire and desired handling characteristics to determine your Trail Mixer set-up. This is true for 650b use, or running a lower volume 700c tire. Cervelo has a more complete explanation of the mechanically simple Trail Mixer system on their website.

The use of the modified Squoval.Max tubeset is clear with the Aspero featuring a substantially larger downtube and massive bottom bracket junction than previous R-Series models. The integrated fork crown and downtube design resembles the Dropped Downtube of the aero bikes but it seems more functional for strength and visual balance from the tapered headtube through the downtube. The seat tube features a squared back, cut-out design, but carries the alloy 27.2mm round seatpost, which can provide more vertical compliance and offers more options. Everything, from the dropped, oversized chainstays, slightly curved, shaped aero seatstays, rear dropouts and Flat Mount disc interface are all stouter for increased strength and torsional stiffness. A modified Future Proof cable guide and internal routing system has an option for a cabled or hydraulic dropper seatpost, and a bolt-on downtube protector handles the debris coming off the front wheel.

If you are a cyclist who has tried gravel designs and just don't like the tall cockpit, or frankly don't plan on bike packing or off road touring, the Cervelo Aspero may well be the design you are looking for. Incredibly capable, but built to ride with assertive confidence and true cycling passion, the Aspero could be the game changer that reinvigorates your cycling experience and inspires you to explore new training opportunities, reduces danger on paved roads, and opens new paths to fun and excitement.