Everyone knows the Cervélo S5 is a rocket on flat roads and sprints—but what happens when the road tilts upward? If you’re considering this aero road bike, you might be asking: can the Cervélo S5 climb? The answer may surprise you, and it could be the deciding factor before you invest in one of the fastest bikes on the market.
Understanding the Cervélo S5’s Design
The S5 is an aero-optimized race bike. Every part of its frame—from the fork to the seat tube—is shaped to reduce drag. This gives you a major advantage on flats, breakaways, and sprint finishes. However, aero tubes usually mean extra weight compared to a pure climbing bike.
Can the Cervélo S5 Climb?
Yes, the Cervélo S5 can absolutely climb. Thanks to its stiff carbon frame, modern groupsets (like SRAM Red eTap AXS or Shimano Dura-Ace Di2), and the ability to run lighter carbon wheels, the S5 handles climbs better than most riders expect from an aero bike. While it may not feel as effortless as a climbing-specific bike like the Cervélo R5, the S5 still delivers excellent power transfer uphill.
When the S5 Excels on Climbs
- Short, punchy climbs: The stiffness makes accelerations quick and responsive.
- Rolling terrain: Perfect for courses that mix flat aero sections with uphill drags.
- High-speed climbs: On steady climbs where aerodynamics still play a role, the S5 keeps you faster.
Where It Falls Short
- Steep, long ascents: The extra grams from aero tubing can make long mountain climbs feel more demanding.
- Ultra-lightweight competition: Dedicated climbing bikes will always have an edge in pure uphill battles.
Price and Build Options
The Cervélo S5 comes in different builds that affect climbing performance and overall feel:
- SRAM Force eTap AXS Build: Around $7,500–$8,500 USD. Solid performance with wireless shifting.
- Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 Build: Around $11,000+ USD. Premium lightweight groupset, ideal for riders who want better climbing efficiency.
- Frameset only: Around $5,500 USD. Lets you choose custom lightweight climbing-friendly components.
Pros and Cons for Climbers
Pros
- Incredible stiffness for uphill power transfer
- Aero advantage on rolling climbs
- Wide tire clearance for comfort and traction
Cons
- Not the lightest frame compared to pure climbers
- Integrated cockpit limits some customization for climbing positions
Who Should Choose the Cervélo S5?
If you ride mostly rolling terrain, do fast group rides, or race on mixed courses, the S5 is a perfect fit. If your riding is focused on long mountain ascents, you may prefer the Cervélo R5. But for all-around riders who want speed on both flats and climbs, the S5 is more versatile than most expect.
FAQs About the Cervélo S5 and Climbing
1. Is the Cervélo S5 good for climbing mountains?
Yes, but it won’t climb as easily as a dedicated lightweight bike. It’s best for rolling hills and shorter climbs, though it can still handle mountains with the right gearing.
2. What gearing is best for climbing on the S5?
Compact chainrings (like 50/34) or wide-range cassettes (10-33) make climbing on the S5 much more manageable.
3. Should I choose the S5 or R5 if I climb a lot?
If you mainly ride mountains, the R5 is the better option. If your routes mix flats, sprints, and hills, the S5 gives you aero speed plus capable climbing.
Final Verdict
So, can the Cervélo S5 climb? Absolutely. While it’s not the lightest climbing bike, its stiffness, gearing options, and aero gains make it a strong performer uphill. If you want one bike that dominates flats but won’t leave you behind on climbs, the Cervélo S5 is worth the investment.
