Cervélo launch the S3 disc
Beefed up for increased stiffness and offering more control with disc brakes
Cervélo have become synonymous for designing stiff and aerodynamic frames. With the S3 disc, Cervélo have introduced a bike they say is ultimately faster than it’s rim brake counterpart because it is free of the design constraints of rim brakes. Integrating their disc brake technology into their proven S3 frame, Cervélo claim the result is a frame that is nine per cent stiffer, 40-g lighter and gives the rider the increased control afforded by disc brakes.
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Cervélo already offer the C3 endurance bike and the R3 with disc brakes. The S3 adds to Cervélo’s line-up with the performant road bike receiving the technology that offers improved braking and increased control.
The chassis of the S3 Disc has been beefed up with more robust airfoil sections and features a rear triangle that was developed at the Project California facility for the Rca road frame. It’s intended to make the rigid bike more forgiving after a long day in the saddle. Also making the bike stiffer are the 12-mm thru-axles used in the front and rear-end of the bike. The bottom bracket is also allegedly stiffer to improve the bikes handling and power transfer from the rider. Without traditional brakes, clearance has also been increased allowing 25 mm tires to be mounted.
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The frame was already designed with aerodynamics in mind and that is not changed in the disc model. Other features include internal cable routing with what the company calls “future-proof” inserts to allow mechanical, electronic and hydraulic shifting and brake lines to be easily installed.
“The S3 disc’s superior handling and control will give performance-seeking riders the confidence to pull away from the peloton or crush a Saturday morning group ride,” said Antoine Ballon, Cervélo’s global marketing manager. “We know the Cervélo community around the world will love our new disc platform as much as we do.”
The S3 disc is now available and features two builds in two colours. The Ultegra 6800 equipped S3 disc is available for US$4,500 while the Ultegra Di2 6870 retails for US$7,400.
