BRAND NEW: Cervélo S5 2026 | First Look

In a sport where milliseconds can make the difference between glory and obscurity, the Cervélo S5 has always been one of the peloton’s most potent weapons. With a race résumé that includes Wout van Aert’s dominant Green Jersey campaign and Simon Yates charging into the maglia rosa, it’s a machine proven at the sharp end of professional racing. For 2026, Cervélo isn’t just refining a classic—they’ve turned up the dial on speed, aerodynamics, and integration. The result? A lighter, faster, and more ferociously aero S5 that looks set to continue its reign at the top of the aero road category.

The Next Evolution of Speed

Cervélo claims the new S5 is over 6 watts faster than its predecessor, with 124 grams shaved off the total system weight. Most of these performance gains come from a complete rethink of the front end—a critical area for aero drag. The updated fork legs and deeper head tube work in harmony with an all-new one-piece handlebar and stem, which evolves the iconic V-stem design and prioritises airflow at every angle. This isn’t just a facelift—it’s a full aerodynamic overhaul, right where it matters most.

The S5 retains its confident handling, poise and stability—traits that have endeared it to riders who want performance without compromise. Whether you’re sprinting at 70kph or carving alpine descents, the new bike maintains that planted feel that made the previous model a go-to for both pros and privateers.

Reserve Wheels Made to Match

A big story for 2026 is the collaboration with Reserve on the new 57|64 Turbulent Aero wheelset. Specifically shaped for the S5’s frame profile, these wheels perfectly align with the asymmetry of the seat tube and hug the frame’s cut-outs for seamless air transition. Designed to be stable even in crosswinds, they not only improve handling but also contribute an additional 3 watts of aero efficiency compared to the previous 52|63 setup—all without a weight penalty.

Aero-Obsessed, Rider-Focused

The new HB19 cockpit follows Cervélo’s “Plus-Four” concept—where the bar is 4cm narrower at the hoods than in the drops. It’s a subtle tweak, but it helps riders adopt a more aerodynamic position while maintaining control for sprints and descents. And despite the increased surface area from deeper fork and head tube profiles, the total system weight drops, thanks to clever carbon layup optimisation and lightweight hardware.

The S5’s geometry remains race-focused with aggressive reach and stack numbers, and its performance credentials are complemented by a selection of top-tier builds. Whether you prefer Shimano Dura-Ace Di2, Ultegra Di2, or SRAM’s Red, Force or Rival AXS, each version comes kitted with a power meter and premium finishing kit, including Selle Italia’s NOVUS BOOST EVO saddles and Vittoria Corsa Pro TLR tyres as standard.

Final Thoughts

The Cervélo S5 2026 isn’t a bike for the faint-hearted. It’s purpose-built for speed addicts, watt-counters, and anyone who wants to line up knowing they’re on the fastest setup the rules will allow. Lighter, faster and more aerodynamic than ever before, the S5 continues to set the benchmark that other aero bikes will be judged against.

If pure speed is your goal, this is your bike. Welcome to the front of the bunch.