Unlike how Cervelo handles the R-series bikes, the geometry of the C5 matches that of the C3 and is somewhat typical of the endurance category. You'll find a taller headtube, for a higher cockpit position and less stress on the body. The stack height increase necessitates a slacker headttube angle and a fork length and rake that allows the bike to retain front end stability and balance. Other advantages are greater tire clearance and a more frame slope, so standover height is increased. That set-up allowed Cervelo's engineers to lower the bottom bracket, which improves handling and stability, as does lengthening the rear center to 420mm. The one-piece rear triangle gets curved thin seatstays which attenuate more vibration and give a little bit under impact, ensuring more overall comfort. With the asymmetric 79mm wide BBright bottom bracket shell and beefy chainstays, lateral stiffness and power transfer is excellent. Cervelo is using their square-oval tubeset, or Squoval, which increases overall tube strength, mildly improves aerodynamics over round or many flatter tube shapes. The headtube and bottom bracket junctions are stronger, defeating lateral torsion. This process is aided by the overall integrated frame design, plus the new 1⅛ x 1 ½" tapered steerer Cervelo carbon flat mount disc fork and the use of the 12mm thru-axles front and rear, which deliver a tangible effect riders coming off the quick release dropout/axle type will notice.

Of course disc brakes have truly opened up the possibilities for larger tires and other accessory use. With better performance overall and excellent reliability when wet or muddy, disc brakes also move the braking load to the axle, and closer to the ground. So you don't have rim wear and when you have to brake more firmly it is more predictable in response. Along with inherent frame comfort, geometry, and additional tire volume-comes a real increase in rider confidence, especially at the end of a long day on the bike when normal fatigue levels can catch up to you. Think of a how a sport sedan drives versus a race car. Still very capable, but less twitchy, more comfortable, and more pleasurable over a long day.