R5 Force AXS (2024)

R5 has one job—get to the top, fast. But for all the glory and fanfare that comes with a summit finish, they’re rarely the only climb of the day. And while a race isn’t usually won on a descent, they can certainly be lost. A climbing bike that can’t carve a hairpin is a bit like a cup of decaf coffee. This is the fourth iteration of the R5, and while weight and stiffness have varied over the years, the handling, poise, and unmatched prowess on a descent have been consistent since day one. The new R5 frame is 130g lighter than the previous model—a 16% reduction from an already-light frame. And while aerodynamics weren’t a focus with this frame the way they would be on an S5 or P5, bringing the cables inside reduced drag by 25g. SPECS: Frame Cervélo All-Carbon Fork Cervélo All-Carbon, Tapered R5 Fork Rims/Wheels Reserve 34/37 Hubs N/A Spokes N/A Tires Vittoria Corsa TLR G 700x25c Crankset SRAM Force AXS, DUB, with power meter Chainrings 48/35T Bottom Bracket SRAM