The Force AXS build spec reflects Cervelo's attention to weight savings at every contact point. SRAM's wireless electronic shifting delivers precise gear changes through a 48/35T crankset and 10-33T cassette—a range that handles everything from flat leadouts to double-digit gradients. The integrated Quarq power meter reads directly from the crank spider, providing the accuracy serious training demands without adding a separate unit to the equation. Force hydraulic disc brakes with 160mm rotors front and rear supply consistent stopping power on alpine descents where extended braking heats rim brake surfaces to problematic temperatures.

Reserve 34/37 TA carbon wheels roll on DT Swiss 240 hubs, a combination that prioritizes low weight and quick engagement over deep-section aerodynamics. The 34mm front and 37mm rear rim depths offer mild aero benefit without crosswind sensitivity—a practical choice for mountain stages where conditions shift rapidly. Reserve developed these wheels specifically for the R5, refining the carbon layup to save 60 grams over the previous generation without compromising stiffness or durability. Vittoria Corsa TLR tires mount tubeless-ready, and the frame accommodates rubber up to 34mm for riders who prefer additional volume on rough roads.

Cervelo's one-piece HB18 carbon bar/stem shed nearly 150 grams compared to a traditional two-piece cockpit while improving aerodynamics by two watts over the previous R5. The integrated design comes in 15 size combinations, and authorized retailers will swap to the correct configuration at purchase. The SP24 carbon seatpost uses a D-shaped profile that adds vertical compliance without lateral flex, smoothing rough surfaces without sacrificing pedaling efficiency.

The Five Black/Bronze colorway applies minimal graphics to save paint weight—another detail that adds up when the goal is building the lightest production road bike available. Fit geometry now matches the S5, allowing riders who train on the R5 and race on the aero bike to maintain identical positioning across both platforms. Whether alternating between models or committing exclusively to the R5, the shared fit coordinates mean muscle memory translates directly between frames.