WHAT GOES UP MUST COME DOWN

R5 has one job—get to the top, fast. But for all the glory and fanfare that comes with a summit finish, they’re rarely the only climb of the day. And while a race isn’t usually won on a descent, they can certainly be lost. A climbing bike that can’t carve a hairpin is a bit like a cup of decaf coffee. 

This is the fourth iteration of the R5, and while weight and stiffness have varied over the years, the handling, poise, and unmatched prowess on a descent have been consistent since day one. 

The lighter the better

The new R5 frame is 130g lighter than the previous model—a 16% reduction from an already-light frame. The new frame is 703g, and the new fork is 329g, bringing the frame to just a hair over the kilogram mark. 

We also pulled some weight out of the parts that are included with the bike—the handlebar and stem are each 12g lighter, and the seat post’s 20g lighter. Introducing the HB13 and ST31 light to our model line. This upgraded stem and bar combo will also be specced on Caledonia-5 and Áspero-5. 

Already a winner

The R5 has already won some impressive victories. Two stages at the TDF, one of which was the iconic double ascent of Mt Ventoux under WVA. The overall win at La Vuelta, by a resurgent Primoz Roglic and a host of other stages and races. 

Find the R5 bikes and frames.