The Cervelo S3, Cervelo's workhorse road bike, has been updated with disc brakes but has also managed to shed weight and gain a more aerodynamic profile in the process.
Cervelo S3 Disc Highlights
- More Aerodynamic
- Lighter
- Stiffer
- Hydraulic disc brakes
- Shimano Ultegra R8000 Drivetrain
- Mavic Cosmic Disc UST Wheels
Cervelo S3 Disc Details
As the benefits of disc brakes have begun to catch on in the world of road cycling, Cervelo has stepped into the fray with the S3 Disc and S5 Disc. The S3 sits in the middle of their aero road bike line up, between the rim brake only S2 and higher-end S5 Disc. The new S3 Disc makes significant weight and aero gains over its predecessor thanks to revised tubing shapes, especially at the headtube, and smoother integration between the fork crown and downtube. The loss of rim brake calipers has actually also resulted in a claimed aerodynamic savings of 2 watts over the previous generation S3.
Not only is the new S3 Disc more aerodynamic, but it’s 40 grams lighter as well. Despite all the changes, the S3 still possesses the same agile handling it's always had, further improved by the enhanced increased bite and stopping power of the hydraulic disc brakes. The bottom bracket area has also been stiffened for better power transfer and the frame has been designed to use 12mm thru axles front and rear. It’s equipped with Shimano's latest generation Ultegra R8000 drivetrain which takes much of its design cues from the new Dura-Ace group. The wheels are Mavic's Cosmic Elite UST Discs which provide an aero profile and compatibility to run tubeless road tires.
Rider Type
- Sprinters
- Crit racers
- Solo breakaway specialists
Cervelo describes the S3 Disc as their “workhorse.” It’s aerodynamic, stiff, and fast and meant to help dedicated road riders achieve their goals. The stiffness does come at the expense of some comfort, so it’s not suited for more recreational style riding. It’s ideal for any rider who wants the greatest speed advantage possible when riding and competing with friends or in races.
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Bruce is a writer who loves getting his bikes dirty, trying new tech, and riding tough trails that make him suffer for hours at a time.
