Cervelo was able to outfit the updated R5 with 34mm tire clearance, yes- really, without using a dropped driveside chainstay, by maximizing the oversized asymmetric nature of the BBright bottom bracket shell and vertically oversized chainstay design. Remember, the current R-series bikes, as well as the pure gravel Aspero, have been strongly informed by the previous development of the R3 Mud- built for the Classics and famous for wider tire clearance, as well as the premium vertical compliance of the minimal R-series seatstays. A 410mm chainstay length keeps the handling tight and fast for sharp corners and twisting descents. The designers maintained the same 73mm seattube angle with a 57.5mm fork Trail on a 28mm tire in all sizes, as well as the same size-specific Stack and Reach. A new semi-aero, semi-internally routed carbon Cervelo HB13 bar is used, with an 80mm Reach and 123mm Drop. This combines with a new version of the ST31 Carbon stem model, with an ST31L designation. Like the ST31 and ST32, the stem is proprietary for internal routing from the handlebar into the R5 fork, which has the C-shaped steerer design used on the Caledonia-5 and Aspero-5.

With the advanced, lighter R5 Carbon disc brake fork, Cervelo ships a design specific FSA headset and a C-shaped steerer expansion plug, which will thankfully make steerer tube height cutting a simpler task. The new headset upper bearing cover now comes in a super low 7mm stack height, as well as a mid-height 22mm. By adding 30mm of the fork-specific spacers, a max 52mm stack height is an option. Cockpits feature a relative positional set-up, and Cervelo changed their D-shaped seatpost offerings. The new 400mm long SP24 is available in a Zero offset, which will be shipped with 48 and 51 cm sizes. The SP24 also comes in a 15mm Setback version- which has been more desirable with today's shorter length saddles, and is coming with all other sizes. Cervelo still sells their 350mm long SP18 model in a 25mm Setback version for those who require it.

One note on tire size and bike choice. The Caledonia framesets also have a 34mm max tire size, which may lead to head scratching. The Caledonia can handle the 34mm "width as measured" while running fenders- which the R5 is not equipped for. And while the Caledonia-5 is a seriously capable bike for endurance riding and racing, pure road racing requires quicker handling with a more nimble geometry. Cervelo expects most racers to regularly ride 28-30mm tires on the R5, but they may train on 30-34mm tires. In races such as Paris-Roubaix, the pros will opt for higher volume.

If you love your Cervelo race bike and long for a little more compliance, clearance, and capability without any sacrifice in performance, handling, or fit, you have to ride the reconceived R5. This R5 is a whole new creation that carries forward the best elements while making real and obvious improvements that will only enhance the bike/rider relationship and experience you already live for.