With the brand-new 2026 R5, Cervlo are not only launching one of the lightest road bikes out there, but also a bike thats already earned its stripes. Even before its official release, this climbing machine helped secure victory at the Tour de France Femmes. But how does this featherweight performer hold up outside the pro peloton?Cervlo R5 | kg 5.97 in size 56 | 12,999 | Manufacturers-WebsiteCervlo look set to overhaul their entire racing line-up this year. Following updates to the aero-focused S5 and the gravel-ready spero-5, its now the turn of their lightweight climbing race bike, the R5. Unlike the heavily-revised spero-5, the changes to the R5 are a bit more subtle, at least at first glance. True to the classic R5 silhouette, youll need to look a little closer to spot whats new. But make no mistake, the 2026 R5 has had a serious refresh.One of the headline figures: it now dips below the magical 6 kg mark, which makes it nearly a full kilo under the UCIs minimum weight limit. But is such a low weight still relevant in todays road bike world? After all, even aero-optimised race bikes can hit the UCI limit of 6.8 kg without breaking a sweat. So where does that leave the new 2026 R5? To find out, we got our hands on the bike ahead of launch and put it through the wringer in the French Alps, including on the final stage of the Tour de France Femmes. The big question: does the new R5 live up to its promise?Reaching new Heights with the 2026 Cervlo R5 but are Climbing Bikes still up to Date?It seemed the days of dedicated climbing bikes were numbered. Aero bikes and all-rounders had grown so dominant, often brushing the UCI weight limit of 6.8 kg while delivering better all-round performance. But thats about to change. A new wave of ultralight bikes is aiming to put the climber back on top. The secret recipe? A complete build under 6 kg, without relying on delicate weight-weenie components. Even with pedals, a head unit and a full bottle, these bikes still stay under the weight limit. And the pros are fully on board. On certain mountain stages, a lightweight climbing bike right on the UCI limit can clearly outperform heavier aero or all-round race bikes. No surprise then that the new Cervlo R5 was the bike of choice for freshly-crowned Tour de France Femmes champion Pauline Ferrand-Prvot, riding for Team Visma Lease a Bike. She put in a blistering performance on the Col de la Madeleine, gaining a full 2 minutes and 37 seconds on her rivals and securing the yellow jersey astride the R5.The holy couple Tour de France winner Pauline Ferrand-Prvots two race bikes rest against the team car after the final stage.While the pros have to weigh their bikes down to meet UCI regulations, the rest of us, the UCI outlaws, get to enjoy the full benefit of these featherweight machines. For once, were one step ahead. With ultra-light bikes like the 2026 Cervlo R5, every climb feels a little less daunting, every switchback becomes a chance to accelerate. In that sense, climbing bikes are more relevant than ever. Because cycling is still about emotion, freedom and the pure joy of riding so why drag any more weight up the mountain than absolutely necessary? You might not be quite as fast as the pros, but with the same equipment, the feeling is every bit as good.Lightweight down to the last Detail all the Updates on the 2026 Cervlo R5From the very start of development, one goal for the new 2026 Cervlo R5 was crystal clear: it had to make it under 6 kg limit. But while weight was the top priority, stiffness couldnt be compromised. The new R5 had to match the performance of its predecessor in terms of frame rigidity no easy task, and only achievable by reworking every single detail of the frame.The 2026 Cervlo R5 is available in two colours. Our test bike came with bronze-coloured decals, while an alternative silver version is also on offer.Even at first glance, the lightweight frame makes it clear that nothing has been left untouched. Cervlo fine-tuned every tiny element, hunting down every last gram. The result? A noticeably slimmer downtube, even thinner seat stays, a reworked bottom bracket area and a lighter seatpost clamp design. Major updates, even if they only reveal themselves in subtle visual details.Three generations in one the difference becomes especially clear along the downtube, where the 2026 Cervlo R5 reveals itself as not only the lightest, but also the sleekest R5 to date.The bottom bracket area has also seen major changes the new version (right) is noticeably boxier than its predecessor (left), helping to save weight while maintaining high stiffness.The most noticeable visual change hides in the fork. Gone is the distinctive chin of its predecessor, meaning the fork is no longer seamlessly integrated into the frame. The 2026 R5 now features a similar front brake setup to the Cervlo spero-5, using direct mount disc brakes. This makes it possible to mount the brake caliper directly onto the fork without the need for an adapter. The trade-off? The front end is only compatible with 160 mm rotors.Also new is the fully integrated Cervlo HB18 cockpit, featured for the first time on the R5. Based on the dimensions of the S5 cockpit, it has a 2 sweep. That means a bar measuring 38 cm at the hoods flares out to 42 cm in the drops. The aero profile adds a touch of wind-cheating performance, helping the 2026 R5 carry speed more efficiently on the flats. At the same time, Cervlo redesigned the seatpost, shaving off a few extra grams through careful material optimisation.Thanks to the new direct-mount option for the front brake, theres no need for an additional adapter anymore.The most noticeable difference from the previous model the fork on the new Cervlo R5 no longer flows seamlessly into the frame.Cervlo didnt stop at the frame they scrutinised every single component. According to the manufacturer, small details like the new UDH-compatible mech- hanger and smart spec choices such as the revised Reserve 34|37TA ST wheelset and TPU inner tubes helped shave off a total of 396.5 g. Practically no part was left untouched. Even the saddle clamp, seatpost collar and top cap have all gone on a weight-loss programme.Before and after even the smallest components on the new 2026 Cervlo R5 have shed weight. (left = new)The weight-saving design is especially noticeable at the seatpost clamp.Not even the tires escaped Cervlos relentless hunt for grams. The 2026 R5 rolls on 26 mm Vittoria Corsa Speed tires, a clear nod to the bikes climbing focus and racing DNA. While these time trial tires fit the concept well, the narrow 26 mm width feels a little dated by modern standards. Still, theyre undeniably light. With a maximum tire clearance of 34 mm, theres plenty of room for upgrades if you fancy a bit more volume or versatility.The 2026 Cervlo R5 in DetailThe first Cervlo R5 to feature a fully integrated cockpit is getting the full celebration it deserves: all versions come equipped with the new Cervlo HB18 cockpit. Our top-tier test model comes is fitted with SRAMs RED XPLR groupset and a 48T aero chainring with integrated power meter. At first glance, that might seem like an odd choice, why would a gravel drivetrain end up on a road bike? Its not really about weight, as this setup saves just 1 gram according to Cervlo. And its not about gearing either, since the range is similar to that of a traditional 2x road setup. The real reason lies elsewhere: its part of the current trend to establish modern 1x drivetrains on the road and to do away with the front derailleur entirely. The XPLR group is paired with Reserve 34|37TA ST wheels laced to DT Swiss 180 Dicut hubs, 26 mm Vittoria Corsa Speed tires, and a Prologo Nago R4 PAS Lightweight Nack saddle. All together, this top-tier build weighs just 5.97 kg retailing at 12,999.The SRAM Red AXS XPLR drivetrain with a 10-46 T cassette and 48 T chainring makes it easy to conquereven steep climbs.The 2026 Cervlo R5 comes fitted with 26 mm Vittoria Corsa Speed tires as standard, but with generous tire clearance, theres plenty of room to size up.Cervlo offer two more high-end builds, both of which are specced with the same Reserve 34|37TA ST wheelset. For the groupset, you can choose between a SRAM Red AXS with a QUARQ power meter anda Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 with the 4iiii Precision Pro Gen3+ DUAL power meter. Both variants retail for 12,999.If youre looking for something a little more budget-friendly, Cervlo also offer two more accessible options, each fitted with Reserve 34|37TA ST wheels paired with DT Swiss 240 hubs. Here, you can choose between a SRAM Force AXS or Shimano Ultegra Di2 groupset. Both come equipped with power meters and are priced at 8,999. And if none of the complete builds tick the right boxes, Cervlo also offer a frameset for 5,699.Cervlo R5 2026 12,999SpecificationsSeatpost Cervlo SP33 D-ShapedBrakes SRAM RED AXS 160/140 mmDrivetrain SRAM RED XPLR AXS 1 x 13Chainring 48Stem Cervlo HB18 100 mmHandlebar Cervlo HB18 400 mmWheelset Reserve 34|37TA SL DT 180 12 x 100 / 12 x 142Tires Vittoria Corsa Speed 700 x 26cCranks SRAM RED AXS DUB 170 mmCassette SRAM RED XPLR XG-1391-E1 10-46Technical DataSize 48 51 54 56 58 61Weight 5,97 kgThe Geometry of the 2026 Cervlo R5The racing DNA of the Cervlo R5 is clear in its geometry. At the request of the pros, its now aligned with the fit of the Cervlo S5, making it easier for riders to switch between the two platforms. In practical terms, this means 5 mm less stack height. The bottom bracket drop has also been adjusted to suit modern, wider tires, sitting 2 mm lower than before. The result is a sportier, lower centre of gravity, even when running wider tires. With a stack-to-reach ratio of 1.45, the overall geometry remains aggressive and performance-focused.Size485154565861Reach368.7 mm376.5 mm383.3 mm391.1 mm400.3 mm408.3 mmStack496.1 mm520.2 mm544.6 mm567.5 mm590.7 mm610.7 mmChainstay Length410 mm410 mm410 mm410 mm410 mm410 mmBB Drop76.5 mm76.5 mm74 mm74 mm71.5 mm71.5 mmHead Angle717273737373Seat Angle74.57473.5737373Horizontal Top Tube506 mm526 mm544 mm565 mm581 mm595 mmHead Tube89.6 mm109.3 mm132 mm156 mm182.8 mm203.7 mmWheelbase976.8 mm977.6 mm978 mm992.8 mm1010.3 mm1024.5 mmPure Climbing Performance first Ride Review of the 2026 Cervlo R5Enough with the numbers, how does the featherweight 2026 Cervlo R5 actually ride? From the very first pedal strokes, the bike impresses with its snappy, almost effortless acceleration. Thanks to the lightweight wheelset, low overall system weight and efficient frame, even the slightest pressure on the pedals is instantly converted into forward motion. Its especially fun on climbs and when kicking out of tight switchbacks. The agile, responsive handling adds to the excitement.At low speeds, the precision is spot on, while at higher speeds, the bike manages to stay composed and stable. Whether youre seated or out of the saddle, the R5 stays fast and efficient, and the ease with which it surges forward will have you chasing more elevation with a smile.But all that climbing prowess doesnt come at the expense of downhill performance. On descents, the 2026 R5 delivers fast, agile and confidence-inspiring handling. Its precise without ever feeling twitchy, letting you carve through corners with control and ease. The only real limit here is the narrow tire width. A modern 28 to 30 mm setup would unlock noticeably more grip and confidence. That said, the bike still offers surprising compliance even with the skinny 26 mm tires. The ergonomic cockpit does a great job of absorbing vibrations, and together with the frame and seatpost, it delivers an impressively comfortable ride without sacrificing stiffness in sprints and with hard efforts. Also surprising is how well the SRAM Red XPLR groupset performs in this build. Yes, you give up a bit of top-end speed, and the gear jumps in the upper range take some getting used to, but if youre happy to ditch the front mech, this 1x setup works brilliantly. All in all, the 2026 Cervlo R5 is a true climbing bike that shines in almost every situation. Whether youre grinding uphill or bombing back down, it feels right at home.Who should take a closer look at the 2026 Cervlo R5?The 2026 Cervlo R5 isnt just for mountain goats and Alpine enthusiasts. Yes, its clearly built with climbing in mind, and the low system weight and punchy acceleration make it an absolute joy to ride uphill. But thanks to the well-balanced handling and consistently strong performance in most scenarios, the R5 feels just as capable when the road points down or flattens out. Sure, youll have to add weight if you want to race it in UCI events, but if pure riding enjoyment matters more to you than top speed on the flat, the Cervlo R5 is one of the most exciting and rewarding bikes out there.Helmet Kask Protone Icon | Glasses Oakley Encoder | Jersey Pas Normal Studios Mechanism Long Sleeve | Shorts Pas Normal Studios Escapism Bib | Shoes Shimano S-PhyreConclusions about the 2026 Cervlo R5 Weighing in at just under 6 kg, the 2026 Cervlo R5 clearly has one goal in mind: big climbs. But despite what the scales suggest, this bike is capable of far more than just ascending mountains. The balanced handling, impressive comfort and well-thought-out ergonomics make it a strong performer in most situations. Even the bold spec choice with SRAM Red XPLR proved its worth in testing, delivering smooth, efficient shifting both on steep climbs and fast descents.TopsExcellent climbing performanceUltra-low weightPremium finishFlopsSlightly narrow tires Tuning Tip: 30 mm wide tires for more grip and even more fun on the descents.For more details, visit cervelo.com. Der Beitrag 2026 Cervlo R5 First Ride Review A Mountain Goat with Tour de France Pedigree? erschien zuerst auf GRAN FONDO Cycling Magazine.