The Cervelo Aspero set a new standard in handling, speed, and comfort for gravel-race oriented bikes, and it maintains a best-seller status, but the Aspero-5 frameset has been the top choice for pure gravel racers due to it's lighter weight, improved aerodynamics, and purer power transfer from the higher grade carbon fiber in an advanced lay-up process. Built here with the lightning quick mechanical shifting of the Campagnolo Ekar 1x13 speed drivetrain and the positive control of Campagnolo's hydraulic disc braking, as well as a wide rim equipped Fulcrum Rapid Red 300 wheeset and Cervelo kit items, you have a solidly spec'ed, properly priced, race-ready complete package capable of tackling a long gravel event, speedy weekday rides on country roads, and epic weekend days when the terrain opens up before you. The Aspero-5 frameset set the standard for gravel race and is always well represented in the group at the front of any major gravel event.

The Aspero-5 retains the popular, proven Aspero geometry and Trail Mixer fork chip system (and that doesn't change for 2023), as well as an appearance with tube shapes that are largely the same. A closer inspection indicates a fully internal wiring and housing system, and a refined headtube. The Aspero-5 has the C-shaped fork steerer tube design seen on other 5-series bikes, which in combination with the included Carbon AB09 16° Flared Carbon Handlebar and Cervelo ST32 Alloy Stem, work with the steerer and the frame to bring the routing internal from the levers on back. An All-Carbon Tapered Áspero Fork with Adjustable Trail and headtube shape offer refined aerodynamics, enhanced by the internal routing. Not only is a completed bike visually clean- but faster. Cervelo's internal testing measures aero improvement at 32g of reduced drag over the standard Aspero.

Cervelo made some intelligent choices, such as carrying over the 27.2mm round seatpost, which offers the rider more options, including the opportunity to run a dropper post. The Aspero-5 includes the compliant carbon Cervelo SP19 27.2mm seatpost. Again, given this is a race oriented bike, the frame and fork deliver clearance necessary for 650b x 51mm tires, or 700c x 43mm tires with at least 4mm on either side to spare. Cervelo is cognizant that for many of the longest, harshest events were capability and speed must be balanced with bike control, many racers will opt for 650b/27.5" wheels and may also want a dropper post. The overall key to any set-up choice is maintaining the proper geometry for excellent handling.

The engineers were particularly focused on making sure the Aspero models handled properly. Cervelo is using their Trail Mixer system to allow the rider to keep effective fork Trail at 62mm. Larger variations in tire size effect the rearward position of the tire- affecting handling and toe-overlap clearance. By using off center, bolt-in 12mm thru-axle drop outs, the rider can select the +5 forward position or the -5 rear position of the axle. With a 700x42 gravel tire set-up, the +5mm forward is the proper position for best active handling and nimble bike control. If you moved it to the -5mm rearward position, it would slow the handling down, perhaps better for long, flat rides on firmer, smoother, less technical surfaces.

What is amazing about geometry of the Aspero is that isn't road-like, but it feels like a more natural transition from a road bike than most gravel race designs. The handling speed and control are there, and the toptube measurements are longer, with the frame center of gravity pushed back a little, while a shorter length stem is used to control the front end. When you take it out on the road, perhaps to transition to your gravel access, the Aspero-5 won't feel awkward or uncomfortable, yet it will handle gravel and even twisty singletrack with aplomb.

The raw efficiency and crisp, precise shifting of Campagnolo's Ekar 1x13 (38T chainring / 9-42T cassette) proves mechanical shifting systems can still deliver an incredible, and easily serviceable, riding experience. By employing their N3W freehub body design, Campy gives you massive range and power for any gravel situation. The Ekar shift button and lever designs offer excellent leverage and feel even on the most challenging surfaces and the power and modulation of the disc brakes are matched only by the durability and heat shedding capacity of the 160mm disc rotors. If you are looking to stay mechanical, and can appreciate fantastic overall performance, this 2023 Cervelo Aspero-5 Ekar Bicycle has to be a top choice.