Cervelo R3 Shimano 105 (2014)

Benchmark performance from a great road bike

Pros

- Overall design and aesthetic
- Performance and balance
- Components
- Price

Cons

- Were they joking when they created the word "squoval"??

Review

The 2014 R3 is the latest in a line of performance road bikes from Cervelo. These bikes have a well earned reputation for efficiency, comfort and most importantly speed. Every review of this bike talks about its excellent manners whether cornering, climbing or sprinting. It has truly become synonymous with supreme quality and performance.

Outwardly the design looks similar to past incarnations, although this new model uses Squoval3 tubes which increase overall frame stiffness while retaining the R3's impressive compliance figures. There is a reason why it has been so successful in the toughest races like Paris-Roubaix. This is helped, no doubt, by the trademark thin seatstays which have graced the bike since inception.

On the road, the Cervelo inspires confidence and definitely feels 'planted' with superb stiffness and balance. The R3 would have to rate as one of the best tracking and handling bikes available at the moment.

The R3 is available in a range of mechanical or electronic groupsets. This model runs Shimano 105 and is the entry level model. In saying that, 105 performs superbly and isn't out of place at your local club race or criterium. The components overall have been well thought out with quality wheels and finishing kit - nothing outstanding, but all reliable and well suited to a frame of this caliber. The frame is also future proofed with the capacity to accept mechanical, electronic and even hydraulic lines.

The only downside is the drunk marketing party where the word "Squoval" (square-oval) was invented. What were they thinking?

Seriously though, the Cervelo R3 is a top tier road race bike and would suit anyone looking for the bees-knees in the performance, handling and compliance stakes. The 105 model is perfect for the club racer looking for an edge and with future proofing, is also a great upgradeable investment.