Cervelo S5 demo
Discussion
I had the pleasure of a demo ride on this Cervelo S5 this morning and thought I would share my thoughts with you all. The demo was booked for yesterday but as it was so windy and raining I was allowed to borrow the bike for today.
Now my current ride is a Scott S30 which I bought as my first road bike in January of this year and since then I have been out on it come rain, extreme cold and wonderful sunshine every weekend. I have completed a few sportives and the L2B and have got more confident with every mile and am now increasing average speed between 17.5 and 18.5mph depending on conditions and routes taken.
I have posted a few threads earlier on in the year regarding which carbon bike, groupset etc to go for which some of you have probably thought, "oh no not more questions!". After a demo on an S2 a few weeks ago I thought it was the bike for me until I saw the S5 and fell in love with its looks. My LBS has been so patient with me whilst I go backwards and forwards to the store, many phone calls and emails have been made and following the demo ride today my mind is made up.
Now I wont be able to give a ride description as well as the magazines or most of you guys but can say the frame is wonderfully stiff and whilst riding I felt no flex in it all. It felt like every ounce of effort I put in transfered into the wheels turning. I did not do my full 60-80 mile Sunday ride as thought this would be taking advantage of the store so settled on a route that took in flat, downhill roads as well as the infamous Ditchling Beacon. I have never ridden with a 53-39 chainring so was a little cautious at first not knowing how my "compact happy" legs would work on the full set of teeth. I was surprised at how well I did and although some of the route was spent in the lower sets of gears I did manage to get into the top gear a few times. Ditchling Beacon felt easier, maybe due to the frame weight, rolling speed of the wheels, I am not sure but got up it quicker than usual which is pleasing.
As the frame is very stiff I thought I would feel the road bumps more but surprisingly it was more comfortable than my aluminium Scott. It felt smooth even on a newly gritted road where all the stone chippings where very prominent. The demo bike has Ultegra groupset which worked very well but I think could do with a slight tweek on the front derailleur as the chain slid off a couple of times. Whether that was my fault for pushing the lever over too far I do not know but will ask tomorrow when I hand it back.
I did find being in the drops a little uncomfortable as the stretch was quite long for me but am sure this issue can be dealt with during a proper bike fit. Due to this I had a little trouble reaching the brake shift when in the drops and this has made me think about getting a Sram set up. I am used to riding Shimano but when trialling the S2 which was fitted with Sram Rival I got on with it very well and liked the fact the shift lever can be moved closer to the bar with a finger movement.
The brakes and gearing worked very well despite the above mentioned chain offs and I was very impressed with the whole bike. I do not have much experience in riding road bikes but the front wheel was firmly planted and didnt feel skittish, the bike steered well which is good as there are plenty of potholes along my route.
Now looking forward to putting my order in tomorrow!
Now my current ride is a Scott S30 which I bought as my first road bike in January of this year and since then I have been out on it come rain, extreme cold and wonderful sunshine every weekend. I have completed a few sportives and the L2B and have got more confident with every mile and am now increasing average speed between 17.5 and 18.5mph depending on conditions and routes taken.
I have posted a few threads earlier on in the year regarding which carbon bike, groupset etc to go for which some of you have probably thought, "oh no not more questions!". After a demo on an S2 a few weeks ago I thought it was the bike for me until I saw the S5 and fell in love with its looks. My LBS has been so patient with me whilst I go backwards and forwards to the store, many phone calls and emails have been made and following the demo ride today my mind is made up.
Now I wont be able to give a ride description as well as the magazines or most of you guys but can say the frame is wonderfully stiff and whilst riding I felt no flex in it all. It felt like every ounce of effort I put in transfered into the wheels turning. I did not do my full 60-80 mile Sunday ride as thought this would be taking advantage of the store so settled on a route that took in flat, downhill roads as well as the infamous Ditchling Beacon. I have never ridden with a 53-39 chainring so was a little cautious at first not knowing how my "compact happy" legs would work on the full set of teeth. I was surprised at how well I did and although some of the route was spent in the lower sets of gears I did manage to get into the top gear a few times. Ditchling Beacon felt easier, maybe due to the frame weight, rolling speed of the wheels, I am not sure but got up it quicker than usual which is pleasing.
As the frame is very stiff I thought I would feel the road bumps more but surprisingly it was more comfortable than my aluminium Scott. It felt smooth even on a newly gritted road where all the stone chippings where very prominent. The demo bike has Ultegra groupset which worked very well but I think could do with a slight tweek on the front derailleur as the chain slid off a couple of times. Whether that was my fault for pushing the lever over too far I do not know but will ask tomorrow when I hand it back.
I did find being in the drops a little uncomfortable as the stretch was quite long for me but am sure this issue can be dealt with during a proper bike fit. Due to this I had a little trouble reaching the brake shift when in the drops and this has made me think about getting a Sram set up. I am used to riding Shimano but when trialling the S2 which was fitted with Sram Rival I got on with it very well and liked the fact the shift lever can be moved closer to the bar with a finger movement.
The brakes and gearing worked very well despite the above mentioned chain offs and I was very impressed with the whole bike. I do not have much experience in riding road bikes but the front wheel was firmly planted and didnt feel skittish, the bike steered well which is good as there are plenty of potholes along my route.
Now looking forward to putting my order in tomorrow!
lovely bike. with regard to the ar4 winstanley are virtually giving the AR3 away at the minute if they have your frame in stock
http://www.winstanleysbikes.co.uk/product/44774/Fe...
http://www.winstanleysbikes.co.uk/product/44774/Fe...
http://www.wiggle.co.uk/k-edge-chain-catcher-doubl... to resolve the chain issues
the S5 is stunning but i'd go for the S2, save the best part of a grand and in reality. i dont think there is enough of a difference between them to warrant the £1k. best get that avg spd up too!
the S5 is stunning but i'd go for the S2, save the best part of a grand and in reality. i dont think there is enough of a difference between them to warrant the £1k. best get that avg spd up too!
pablo said:
http://www.wiggle.co.uk/k-edge-chain-catcher-doubl... to resolve the chain issues
the S5 is stunning but i'd go for the S2, save the best part of a grand and in reality. i dont think there is enough of a difference between them to warrant the £1k. best get that avg spd up too!
Where does the chain catcher go, I shoudl probable google it but thought easier to ask.the S5 is stunning but i'd go for the S2, save the best part of a grand and in reality. i dont think there is enough of a difference between them to warrant the £1k. best get that avg spd up too!
I rode an S2 a few weeks back and even though it was lovely to ride it didnt feel as good as the S5.
I totally agree on saving plenty of money buying an S2 but in reality I am probably only going to get one chance of buying a quality bike so thought it best to get the best frame I can and then change components as they wear out. Cervelo frames come with a lifetime warranty for the original owner so that should protect me for a good few years to come.
Chain catcher uses the bolts that attach the front mech to the braze on mount. If you can afford it, go with the S5 but given the S2 is still a pro tour level frame, its unlikely you would need to upgrade that for a while.
I'd still Save the grand and put it towards sram red and/or some Reynolds 48s on the S2... it just makes more sense to me than a lesser equipped S5 (unless the budget let's you go bonkers spec'ing the S5!!). Either bike is a massive jump from the Scott...
I'd still Save the grand and put it towards sram red and/or some Reynolds 48s on the S2... it just makes more sense to me than a lesser equipped S5 (unless the budget let's you go bonkers spec'ing the S5!!). Either bike is a massive jump from the Scott...
pablo said:
Chain catcher uses the bolts that attach the front mech to the braze on mount. If you can afford it, go with the S5 but given the S2 is still a pro tour level frame, its unlikely you would need to upgrade that for a while.
I'd still Save the grand and put it towards sram red and/or some Reynolds 48s on the S2... it just makes more sense to me than a lesser equipped S5 (unless the budget let's you go bonkers spec'ing the S5!!). Either bike is a massive jump from the Scott...
Totally agree with you on all counts.I'd still Save the grand and put it towards sram red and/or some Reynolds 48s on the S2... it just makes more sense to me than a lesser equipped S5 (unless the budget let's you go bonkers spec'ing the S5!!). Either bike is a massive jump from the Scott...
I did toy with the idea of a better spec S2 than a poorer S5 but after speaking to a few people I have decided to have the better frame (S5) and spec it as high as ones budget allows. This will allow me in time as things wear out to upgrade components rather than having to buy a newer better frame, thus keeping costs down. Also I dont like the look of the 2013 Cervelo range so wanted to get one before there is not a 54cm available to me. I know this frame is way beyond my current cycling capabilities and some people will say I have all the kit but no skills/speed but that will come with time, and if it doesnt at least I can say I tried and had plenty of enjoyment with the some really great kit and the only failure would be me.
When I returned the demo bike I had quick back to back blast with the S2 and the S5 and the S5 won hands down for comfort. They were both set up the same so the comparison was realistic. Also my smile factor on the S5 is much greater lol
A deposit was left at the store to secure my frame, now just going through the finer details.
I also would like to "thank you" as I believe in another "which bike" thread of mine you pointed me in the direction of the Tri Store in Eastbourne as they have been the most helpful and knowledgable people.
no dramas, i'm incredibly jealous but having been in a similar situation found a nice bike simply makes cycling more enjoyable and gets me out more. The RS is a better bike than I am a rider but the best thing is, I can only improve, the bike can not get worse!.....
Edited by anonymous-user on Tuesday 28th August 08:23
I bought a Cervelo S3 a few years ago when it was the top of he range frameset (c.£3.5k). I skimped a bit on group set ( campag chorus) and wheels (mavic ksyriums sl rather than zipps!) but it Still brings a smile to my face every time i see it. As the years have gone on I have upgraded parts from the original build.
Would definitely recommend getting the best frame you can afford...
Would definitely recommend getting the best frame you can afford...
Spec time now and a couple of questions...
My deposit has secured my S5 and here is the spec I am proposing for the build:
S5 Team 54cm
Sram Force groupset
3T Ergosum bar
3T Pro stem
Fizik Arione Kium saddle
Here is where the questions come in, I am torn between Mavik Cosmic Carbone SL and Fulcrum Red Wind 50's with Continental GP4000 tyres. I have never ridden these type of wheels and wonder if anyone has any preferences. I think Mavics have a louder noise when free wheeling, but am not 100% sure.
Secondly, I do not know whether to go with a 53/39 or compact set up. The Scott I currently ride (which will become my bad weather and winter trainer) is compact but the S5 I rode was 53/39 and I seemed to do ok. This is what the shop owner wrote in his last email...
"In terms of the gearing, if you go for compact and an 11 cassette you can get a bigger top gear than a 12 and 53/39 so you can possibly win both ways? If you go for an 11 cassette and 53/39 then you will have a bigger top gear obviously and if you had no issues even on Ditchling Beacon then that may be your answer!".
Wheels I could probably take either but the gearing is something I am really not sure about, some help would be appreciated please
My deposit has secured my S5 and here is the spec I am proposing for the build:
S5 Team 54cm
Sram Force groupset
3T Ergosum bar
3T Pro stem
Fizik Arione Kium saddle
Here is where the questions come in, I am torn between Mavik Cosmic Carbone SL and Fulcrum Red Wind 50's with Continental GP4000 tyres. I have never ridden these type of wheels and wonder if anyone has any preferences. I think Mavics have a louder noise when free wheeling, but am not 100% sure.
Secondly, I do not know whether to go with a 53/39 or compact set up. The Scott I currently ride (which will become my bad weather and winter trainer) is compact but the S5 I rode was 53/39 and I seemed to do ok. This is what the shop owner wrote in his last email...
"In terms of the gearing, if you go for compact and an 11 cassette you can get a bigger top gear than a 12 and 53/39 so you can possibly win both ways? If you go for an 11 cassette and 53/39 then you will have a bigger top gear obviously and if you had no issues even on Ditchling Beacon then that may be your answer!".
Wheels I could probably take either but the gearing is something I am really not sure about, some help would be appreciated please
BPC7 said:
Spec time now and a couple of questions...
My deposit has secured my S5 and here is the spec I am proposing for the build:
S5 Team 54cm
Sram Force groupset
3T Ergosum bar
3T Pro stem
Fizik Arione Kium saddle
Here is where the questions come in, I am torn between Mavik Cosmic Carbone SL and Fulcrum Red Wind 50's with Continental GP4000 tyres. I have never ridden these type of wheels and wonder if anyone has any preferences. I think Mavics have a louder noise when free wheeling, but am not 100% sure.
Secondly, I do not know whether to go with a 53/39 or compact set up. The Scott I currently ride (which will become my bad weather and winter trainer) is compact but the S5 I rode was 53/39 and I seemed to do ok. This is what the shop owner wrote in his last email...
"In terms of the gearing, if you go for compact and an 11 cassette you can get a bigger top gear than a 12 and 53/39 so you can possibly win both ways? If you go for an 11 cassette and 53/39 then you will have a bigger top gear obviously and if you had no issues even on Ditchling Beacon then that may be your answer!".
Wheels I could probably take either but the gearing is something I am really not sure about, some help would be appreciated please
definately go with 53/39, pick a sensible casette (12-28 not 11-25) and you should have enough ratios to see you up most hills. compacts just dont make any sense to me unless you live in the peak district or similar as i just find it impossible to get a good range of ratios that offer a sensible cadence. My deposit has secured my S5 and here is the spec I am proposing for the build:
S5 Team 54cm
Sram Force groupset
3T Ergosum bar
3T Pro stem
Fizik Arione Kium saddle
Here is where the questions come in, I am torn between Mavik Cosmic Carbone SL and Fulcrum Red Wind 50's with Continental GP4000 tyres. I have never ridden these type of wheels and wonder if anyone has any preferences. I think Mavics have a louder noise when free wheeling, but am not 100% sure.
Secondly, I do not know whether to go with a 53/39 or compact set up. The Scott I currently ride (which will become my bad weather and winter trainer) is compact but the S5 I rode was 53/39 and I seemed to do ok. This is what the shop owner wrote in his last email...
"In terms of the gearing, if you go for compact and an 11 cassette you can get a bigger top gear than a 12 and 53/39 so you can possibly win both ways? If you go for an 11 cassette and 53/39 then you will have a bigger top gear obviously and if you had no issues even on Ditchling Beacon then that may be your answer!".
Wheels I could probably take either but the gearing is something I am really not sure about, some help would be appreciated please
your shop owner seems to have focused on the wrong end of the ratios, i prefer to run a 53t and then be somewhere in the middle of the casette for most terrain rather than run a 50t and always be at the low end of the casette thus meaning when the speed picks up you quickly run out of gears and your cadence has to stretch. With a 53/28, the ratios do more of the work and your cadence doesnt creep up. You are unlikely to spin out either 53/12 or 50/11 that often or for a sustained period so focus on what will get you up hills and the undualating terrain more than flat out speed
Cant really help with wheels as I dont have much experience of the high end stuff, have a look at Ryenolds, HED and Zipp before pulling the trigger. Most of them are alloy rims with carbon fairings meaning you dont need carbon specific pads and you can also invest a set of Mavic Aksiums or similar which would be a worthwhile purchase for those days when you dont want to take out the "Sunday Best" wheels but do want to take the S5!. Although wheels like the Cosmic Carbons weigh close on 1800gs, the aero benefits will trump the weight.
3T bars come up short in terms oif wodth, they flare out at the end and thats where they take the measurement. Other brands dont flare out thus the drops follow the same width as the at the bends. A 44cm 3T width bar is the same as most others 42 across the tops. Go for the 44cm 3T bar...
Edited by anonymous-user on Wednesday 29th August 08:59
itsnotarace said:
You're about to blow 3k on a what is essentially a timetrial frameset and you're not sure what gears to run? Errr, ok
What is your intended use of this bike? Time trials or Triathlons
I'd label it an "Aero road frame" more than "time trial framset", Millar rode his team issue S5 in the Olympics...What is your intended use of this bike? Time trials or Triathlons
OP seems to be aware that its pro tour level frameset way beyond his abilities but he likes shiny things. This is ph, we support that.
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