Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2 Review
- Price: $9,000
- Category: Triathlon Bike
- Frame: Carbon
- Gear: 2×12 Electronic
- Tires: 700x25c
What we like about it: The strong, lightweight P5 frame has been aerodynamically improved on all fronts to create a world-class performance for this bike.
What we don’t like about it: It needs to be assembled carefully.
Rating (4.9/5.0)
The sole goal of the Cervelo P5 is to increase road speed. Its aerodynamics, based entirely on the UCI guidelines, can help us reach our maximum potential. In addition, Cervelo has developed the P5 frame with the best riders in the world to be worthy of our expectations. There is no doubt that every detail of the custom tube shape, the full internal alignment design, the ultra-performance electronic shifting, etc., has been improved to achieve a more comfortable and efficient ride for us.
Below, we’ll break down this Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2’s race performance, road ride, key features, components, specs, and comparisons. If you’re interested, remember to follow us!
Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2 Race Riding
The outstanding performance has kept it active in major competitions. Through my testing, I finally decided to take the Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2 to an Ironman race.
However, the sturdiness and lightness of the P5 frame are so incredible to me. It improves aerodynamics without sacrificing stiffness. I am much less affected by air resistance while riding.
In the race, my swimming play in front of me was not satisfying. Also, it started raining lightly on the way to the swim. This caused me to be a little worried about the back when I switched to the ride. However, the fact that the Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2 performed excellently gave me a lot of confidence.
First of all, I felt fortunate that our course was generally fairly flat, with just the occasional minor undulation. But this also meant a much purer test of speed for the riders.
As I rode on the road, its comfortable handlebars and saddle immediately refreshed me, and the fatigue of the swim I had just taken was quickly left behind.
Secondly, on the slippery road, its slim 25c tires not only did not show weakness but also let me feel the tires’ very strong grip and traction. With my speedy pedaling, I was able to catch up with the runner in front of me in no time, which made me feel more confident and continue to push forward.
When I hit a corner, the Shimano Dura-Ace 9270’s braking system, with its stable and agile braking power, easily slowed me down, giving me more focus on directional control.
In the end, I finished second in the race, which made me feel ecstatic. I think the Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2 has an indelible credit.
Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2 Road Riding
On weekdays, besides physical training, I also go for a ride on my bike. The Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2 is my first choice.
I live in Florida, where the roads are wide and flat, and the scenery is beautiful. As an innovator in aerodynamics, the Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2 is good for an extreme road ride.
Unlike the race, I wasn’t in a very nervous mood. I eased my supplies into the frame of the Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2. Frankly, its internal storage setup suits me, as I am a rider who enjoys speed. the Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2 is designed in such a way that it not only ensures overall aesthetics but also helps me maintain an aerodynamic position while riding. Especially when I kept the speed at 30km/h, I felt faster than ever with the trees on the side of the road quickly running backward.
In addition, the Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2 2×12-speed Shimano Ultegra Di2 8150 electronic shifting gave me a wide enough range of adjustment, and its smooth shifting allowed me to change speeds with little noticeable change. Not only that, but the rugged chain kept running efficiently.
The bike is, as it says, “only for road speed”. the Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2 is too much for me to enjoy in terms of the speed experience of riding it.
Main Features
Frame Group
The Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2 features a carbon P5 frame with a custom tubular shape that not only improves aerodynamics but also increases stiffness, weight, and usability.
Moreover, the bike has a storage unit perfectly integrated into the frame, and all personal items are easily accessible and do not spoil our aerodynamic riding position.
In addition, the P5 Ultegra Di2 hides all brake control cables and cables in the frame. The fully internal cable routing design protects the cables well.
Geometry
Based on measurements of the 54cm P5 Ultegra Di2, its saddle is placed further forward than a road bike, almost above the pedals, while the handlebars are lower. This provides the rider with a more aerodynamic position to move through the wind with ease.
At the same time, its steep 72.5° head tube angle provides great agility and I get responsive steering while riding.
And the 502mm Stack is relatively short, which means our bodies can stay as flat as possible and reduce the amount of air resistance we experience so we can accelerate better.
All of this combined will result in a rider who is faster for the same amount of effort.
Components and Specifications
Shimano Ultegra Di2 8150 Shifting System
The Shimano Ultegra Di2 8150 comes with a wireless unit and LED status indicator under its simple design. We can easily tune it via the online application.
Moreover, the 2×12-speed electronic drivetrain will be more responsive in its shifting compared to the wired electronic drivetrain. Also, it eliminates the cable set-up and reduces the overall body weight.
In addition, its rear derailleur features a modified ShadowRD+ construction, which ensures chain retention and stability.
The Shimano Ultegra Di2 8150 has become faster, more accurate, and better priced with improvements.
Shimano Dura-Ace 9270 Braking System
The DURA-ACE BR-R9270 hydraulic caliper is claimed to be Shimano’s most compact product to date. Its MONO-BODY structure design not only reduces the overall weight but also maximizes the stiffness of the caliper.
In addition, the Shimano Dura-Ace 9270 has a wider 10% pad clearance than previous versions. This design reduces rotor friction and ensures a quieter ride while improving durability.
What’s more surprising is the All-new lever ergonomics on the carbon DURA-ACE ST-R9270 dual control levers, which brings a new level of comfort and control to the Cervélo P5 Ultegra Di2. At the same time, the control levers feature SERVO WAVE ACTION braking technology, and we will experience control like never before.
Vittoria Corsa Speed TLR Tires
As a triathlon bike, the Cervelo P5 has chosen tires designed for time trials, namely the Vittoria Corsa Speed tires. The slim 25c tires use a proprietary graphene compound that minimizes rolling resistance.
Moreover, these tires can still maintain excellent grip in wet weather, making us fearless of bad weather.
In addition, the Vittoria Corsa Speed TLR tires’ fine weave process works perfectly with the sealant, allowing for higher water flat protection.
Other versions of Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2
We’ve already taken a detailed look at various aspects of the Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2’s performance. However, there are other versions of the Cervelo P5 series available. We have chosen the Cervelo P5 Force eTap AXS 1 to compare with the P5 Ultegra Di2. If you’re interested, read on!
Cervelo P5 Force eTap AXS 1
Compared to the Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2, this Cervelo P5 Force eTap AXS 1 uses SRAM-branded parts on the set.
For the drivetrain, the Cervelo P5 Force eTap AXS 1 uses an SRAM Force eTap AXS 1×12-speed rear derailleur that is easy to shift. It uses Orbit damper technology to ensure quiet, safe chain management on rough roads. These benefits are also available in the Cervélo P5 Ultegra Di2 2×12-speed drivetrain.
However, the P5 Ultegra Di2 has a gear range of 11-30T, while the Cervelo P5 Force eTap AXS 1 has a gear range of 10-33T.
As a result, the Cervelo P5 makes the rider feel smoother during speed changes.
In addition, to the other performance, I do not feel that there is too much difference between them, just each has its characteristics.
Learn More: Cervelo S5 Ultegra Di2 Review- Modern Fastest Bike
What we like about it
- Lighter P5 carbon frame for improved aerodynamics.
- Full internal alignment design makes the appearance more simple.
- Speed Riser pneumatic handlebar system is more user-friendly.
- Optimized Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 9180 shifter provides smooth movement.
- The long and low handlebar position is more suitable for professional riders.
What we don’t like about it
- Not suitable for commuting.
- Radical geometric design is very test rider.
FAQs
1. What is the frame material of the Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2?
The Cervélo P5 Ultegra Di2’s frame material is aluminum.
2. What is the drivetrain of the Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2?
The drivetrain of the Cervélo P5 Ultegra Di2 is the Shimano Deore M6000 GS.
3. What are the tires on the Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2?
The tires on the Cervélo P5 Ultegra Di2 are Vittoria Corsa Speed TLR.
Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2 Specs
Build
| Frame | carbon BB Standard: BB86/BB92, Press Fit Colors: Purple Sunset; Five Black |
| Fork | Cervélo All-Carbon, Tapered P5 Fork |
| Bottom Bracket | JY-BB 24 |
| Headset | FSA IS2 1 x 1-3/8 |
| Stem | NA |
| Handlebar | P5 CarbonBasebar/EX10 Riser/Carbon Extensions |
| Saddle | Prologo Dimension Tri TiRox OR Selle Italia WATT Ti |
| Seatpost | Cervélo SP23 Carbon Tri Post |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Ultegra Di2 8150, 12 spd |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano Ultegra Di2 8150, 12 spd |
| Crank | Shimano Ultegra 8100 52/36 |
| Shifters | Shimano Dura Ace Di2 9180, 12 spd |
| Cassette | Shimano Ultegra CS-R8100, 12 spd, 11-30 |
| Chain | Shimano CN-M8100, 12 spd |
| Brakes | Shimano Dura-Ace 9270 Hydraulic Disc |
| Brake Levers | Shimano Dura-Ace 9180 |
Wheels
| Rims | DT Swiss P1800 32 Spline, 24h (F), 24h (R), Center-Lock, Tubeless Ready |
| Tires | Vittoria Corsa Speed TLR 25c G2.0 |
Video
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Price | Drivetrain | Brakes | Tires | Click view |
| Trek Speed Concept SLR 7 | $9,699 | 2 × 12 Electronic | Shimano Dura-Ace Hydraulic Disc | 700x25c | Click View |
| Canyon Speedmax CF SLX Disc Hawaii | $9,000 | 2 × 12 Electronic | SRAM S-900 Aero HRD Hydraulic Disc | 700x25c | Click View |
| Scott Plasma RC Pro | $10,999 | 2 × 12 Electronic | Shimano BR-R9170 Hydraulic Disc | 700x25C | Click View |
| BMC Timemachine 01 DISC ONE | $9,499 | 2 × 12 Electronic | SRAM S-900 Aero HRD Hydraulic Disc | 700x26c | Click View |
Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2 vs Trek Speed Concept SLR 7
Trek’s new Trek Speed Concept SLR 7 is attractive, with a bright red and black color scheme that is eye-catching.
Although the Trek Speed Concept SLR 7 uses the same components for its drivetrain and braking system, they do not feel the same. However, they do not have the same riding experience, which mainly depends on the different geometric angles of both of them.
I think the Trek Speed Concept SLR 7’s geometry design is excellent though as well. But the geometry angle of the Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2 is aggressive enough for the rider and the geometry design looks more suitable for sprint racing.
As for the tires, the Trek Speed Concept SLR uses Bontrager tires made of carbon, which will be lighter in weight than the Cervélo P5 Ultegra Di2.
However, through our testing, I don’t think the difference in weight between them is reflected in the experience.
If you’re going for a time trial, my recommendation would be the Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2.
Learn more : Is Trek Domane SLR 6 ETap A Good Bike? [Trek Domane SLR 6 ETap Review]
Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2 vs Canyon Speedmax CF SLX Disc Hawaii
Compared to the Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2, I think the Canyon Speedmax CF SLX Disc Hawaii at the same price point will feel more comfortable while riding.
Also, with the same 2×12 speed gear range, the Canyon Speedmax CF SLX Disc Hawaii has a gear range of 10-28T, while the Cervelo P5 has 11-30T. This means that the former is better for sprinting, but the latter will be more advantageous when facing climbs.
If it were me, I would go for the Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2, as I don’t exactly have flat roads in the races I compete in.
Learn More: Canyon Speedmax CF SLX 8 WMN Disc Di2 Review – A Racing Machine Designed For Women
Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2 vs Scott Plasma RC Pro
Overall, there is no difference between these two bikes in most components. But they still differ in some minor details.
Externally, the Scott Plasma RC Pro gives me a mech-like appearance overall, and the frame head is accented with blue spray paint for a unique look.
The tires on the Scott Plasma RC Pro are Schwalbe tires, and they are Schwalbe PRO ONE TT Microskin folding tires, which are lighter than the vacuum tires on the Cervelo P5. But the Cervelo P5 tires are also more resistant to wear and tear.
So, all in all, with little difference in performance, I would say the Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2 is a better value for money.
Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2 vs BMC Timemachine 01 DISC ONE
First of all, the BMC Timemachine 01 DISC ONE is a bit more expensive than the Cervelo P5 Ultegra Di2.
Secondly, the BMC Timemachine 01 DISC ONE is in the frame section, and its material storage unit is not quite in the same place as the P5 Ultegra Di2. Yes, the BMC Timemachine 01 DISC ONE also houses a storage section at the rear of the seat post.
In addition, the BMC Timemachine 01 DISC ONE has a rim height of 62mm, which gives it a better cruising ability than the Cervelo P5.
I have to say that the BMC Timemachine 01 DISC ONE is very competitive.
I think if I didn’t care about the almost $500 difference, I’d go with the BMC Timemachine 01 DISC ONE.
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learn more：BMC Timemachine ROAD 01 THREE Review – The “Time Machine” That Gets You To The Finish Line Faster
