Cervélo S5 Frameset: aerodynamics, speed, and racing performance

The Cervélo S5 is a road frameset designed to provide maximum performance in terms of speed, aerodynamics, stiffness, and control. An evolution of one of the most recognizable models in professional cycling, the new S5 advances the concept of the aero racing bike even further, with an optimized design and lighter construction.

The Cervélo S5 was developed for cyclists seeking the highest possible road performance, especially in situations where speed and aerodynamic efficiency make the difference: flat roads, high speeds, sprints, and fast courses.

The characteristic design of the S5, recognizable by its integrated V-shaped handlebar and fork, has been further evolved to achieve superior aerodynamic performance.

A new, even faster generation

The new Cervélo S5 builds on the legacy of previous S5 models, introducing significant updates aimed at further improving speed and performance.

Key evolutions include:

• 6.3 Watts of aerodynamic savings compared to the previous version;

• 124 grams lighter, while maintaining handling, responsiveness, and stability;

• new aerodynamic solutions in the front section;

• fork and head tube with more pronounced profiles;

• new handlebar and stem integrated into a single solution;

• new Reserve 57|64 Turbulent Aero wheels, developed specifically for the Cervélo S5.

These updates help make the S5 an even more efficient platform at high speeds.

Optimized aerodynamics

Aerodynamics is one of the central elements of the Cervélo S5 project.

The new version is claimed to be 6.3 Watts faster than the previous model, thanks to a series of interventions that mainly involved the front of the bike.

The fork and head tube feature more pronounced profiles, designed to improve airflow around the front of the bike.

The integration between the asymmetric seat tube and rear wheel also contributes to the S5's overall aerodynamic performance.

The result is a bike designed to reduce aerodynamic drag and maintain high efficiency as speed increases.

Cervélo HB19 Carbon integrated handlebar

One of the distinctive features of the new S5 is the new Cervélo HB19 Carbon, an integrated system that combines the handlebar and stem into a single solution.

The design draws from the S5's characteristic V-handlebar concept, evolving it with an even more aerodynamic configuration.

The handlebar adopts the "Plus-Four" concept, characterized by a top section that is 4 cm narrower than the bottom section.

For example:

• top: 38 cm

• bottom: 42 cm

This configuration allows the rider to maintain a more compact and aerodynamic position while pedaling, while simultaneously offering stability and control on descents and during sprints.

All handlebar measurements comply with UCI regulations, including recent rule changes.

Lighter frame with no performance compromises

Despite the increase in aerodynamic surface area in certain areas of the frame, the new Cervélo S5 is 124 grams lighter than the previous model.

The increase in the depth of the fork and head tube could have resulted in added weight. Instead, Cervélo optimized the carbon layup and system hardware to achieve an overall lighter structure.

The result is a frame that maintains the stiffness, responsiveness, handling, and stability required by a competition bicycle, while simultaneously reducing the overall weight.

Reserve 57|64 Turbulent Aero wheels

The new Cervélo S5 was developed in collaboration with Reserve to use the new Reserve 57|64 Turbulent Aero wheelset.

The wheels were designed and optimized specifically to work in conjunction with the S5's geometry and aerodynamic profiles.

The rear wheel's asymmetry is engineered to integrate with the asymmetric profile of the seat tube, promoting a more uniform airflow around the back of the bicycle.

The new Reserve 57|64 wheelset also offers a 3-Watt aerodynamic improvement over the previous Reserve 52|63 wheels, while maintaining the same weight.

The integration between the frame and the wheels contributes to improving both aerodynamic efficiency and the stability of the bicycle, even in crosswind conditions.

Stability and control at high speeds

The Cervélo S5 is not designed exclusively to be fast in a straight line. The geometry and integration of the components are designed to maintain a high level of control even during descents, high-speed cornering, and sprints.

The front-end design and integrated handlebar contribute to maintaining a stable and precise position, while the integration with the Reserve 57|64 wheels has been studied to offer balanced handling even in crosswind conditions.

Cervélo S5 frame technical specifications

Fork

• Model: Cervélo All-Carbon, Bayonet S5 Fork

• Material: carbon

• Type: Cervélo S5 specific fork

Handlebar

• Model: Cervélo HB19 Carbon

• Type: integrated carbon handlebar

• Configuration: "Plus-Four" design

• Width difference between hoods and drops: 4 cm

• Example configuration: 38 cm / 42 cm

• Compliance: dimensions comply with UCI regulations

Headset

• Model: FSA SL IS2

• Specifications: 1-1/8", 36° x 45° / 1-3/8", 36° x 45°

Seatpost

• Model: Cervélo SP34 Carbon

• Material: carbon

Thru-axles

• Front: Cervélo Aero Thru Axle Front, M12x1.5 mm, 122 mm length

• Rear: Cervélo Aero Thru Axle Rear, M12x1.0 mm, 169 mm length

Accessories

• Front computer/accessory mount: Cervélo Front Computer/Accessory Mount 887

• Rear accessory mount: Cervélo Rear Accessory Mount

Why choose the Cervélo S5 frame

The Cervélo S5 is a platform designed for those seeking a high-performance road bike with a strong aerodynamic focus.

The evolution of the frame delivers a claimed improvement of 6.3 Watts in terms of aerodynamic speed, a reduction of 124 grams in weight, and a new front-end configuration with an optimized fork, head tube, and integrated handlebar.

The combination with the Reserve 57|64 Turbulent Aero, specifically developed for the S5, completes a system designed to offer efficiency at high speeds, stability, and control.

Note

Technical specifications may vary without notice based on component availability.
Product images are for illustrative purposes only and may not exactly reflect the described features.

Cervélo S5: designed to go fast

The Cervélo S5 concentrates aerodynamics, lightness, stiffness, and control into a single design. From the carbon frame to the Bayonet S5 fork, to the HB19 Carbon integrated handlebar and Reserve 57|64 Turbulent Aero wheels, every element has been developed to achieve maximum performance when speed becomes the decisive factor.

A competition platform designed for those who want to turn every watt into speed.

Do you want to receive your bike ready for use? Don't forget to add the bike assembly service at the time of purchase! Discover all the details here: Francesconi bike assembly

A Complete Guide to Bike Sizes

Foreword: Not all bike sizes are the same

Each type of bike has a specific frame and often uses a different size scale. For example, a road bike with a 54cm frame might be considered a medium size by one brand, but a large by another.

Bicycle adjustment margins

Some types of bikes, like gravel bikes, offer a wide range of adjustments, adapting to different body types. Other models, however, have limitations in this regard. This is an important aspect to consider.

How to use size charts

We've created a simple guide to help you find the right bike size:

1. Check out our size charts for each bike type.
2. Learn more with specific tips to help you make the right choice.

Size Charts: Find Your Perfect Bike

Gravel and road bikes

Sizes are based on the length of the top tube (in cm), which determines the reach of the bike.

For gravel, measurements may vary slightly due to different geometries, but remain similar.

Mountain bike

MTBs are measured in inches, based on the seat tube.

Sizes also vary depending on the type of MTB: full-suspension , hardtail or fat bike .

Children's bikes

The size depends on the size of the wheels, often associated with age:

What to do with half measures?

If you are between two sizes:

• Comfort : Choose the larger size.
• Performance : Go for the smaller size.

Final tips for choosing

1. Consult the manufacturer's instructions : Always check the brand's guidelines.
2. Ask an expert : a specialized workshop can help you choose based on your height, ideal reach and goals.
3. Test the bike : If possible, test the model you intend to purchase.