 A winner… |
 Classic Cervelo stays |
The Cervelo R3 needs no introduction. Two wins in the most-feared one day race, Paris-Roubaix, and a list of other top race victories, have cemented the R3 as a candidate for one of the finest bicycle frames in the business.
It’s taken a while, but RCUK has managed to get its hands onto a R3 for an extended test, to find out just what it is that makes the R3 quite so successful. With just a few hours aboard the R3, it’s too soon to pass verdict until much more mileage has been logged up, but we learnt something in those few hours.
The Canadian manufacturer has built a distinctive frame. A large square shaped [‘Squoval’ – square-oval – geddit – ed.] downtube, massive box section chainstays and spindly seat stays create a bike with a unique profile. Cervelo have aimed the R3 at those who want a frame that will boast excellent power transfer, stiffness but also comfort. A hard combination to master.
 Branded top cap |
 Fork made by the New 3T |
First impressions, the R3 didn’t feel as stiff as I was expecting. Instead, there’s a degree of softness built into the frame, which must be a result of that rear triangle. Rough roads and the occasional holes showed up just how well the R3 handles impacts: the front wheel would send some shock through to the handlebars, no more than any other similar bike, but there was noticeably less feedback as the rear wheel rolled over the same imperfection. Now I can begin to see why the R3 has been just so dominant on the cobbles of the Spring Classics.
That dampening effect initially gives the impression that the R3 isn’t very stiff. It is. Very. Pushing hard on the pedals on a long drag of a climb, it’s noticeable just how much the bike drives forward with each pedal stroke. It’s instant. No delay. Despite being an extremely light frame, it feels as solid and planted as you like. It’s a similar story cornering, with a very precise and assured sense of steering that makes it a lot of fun to ride fast down the hills.
 Sloppy painting |
 Beefy chain stays wear Neoprene protection |
On first impressions then, the R3 appears to be a very sophisticated package and one that looks after the rider, while also providing a platform that can be easily exploited. Many more miles and hours will be logged on the R3, including some races and sportives, to allow us to pass a full verdict. Will the R3 win the coveted RCUK Recommended award? You’ll have to wait and see.
 R3 Roubaix record is impressive |
 Seat stays are slender side-on |
