2026 Cervélo Áspero Review

The world of gravel bikes is absolutely buzzing at the moment, and has been for a few years now - making it more and more difficult for brands to stand out. This however, is no problem for Cervelo - thanks to the Aspero Range - which has earned its place and reputation as an aero focused speed machine. The Aspero Gravel range offers a wind cheating aero design, with a rugged capability, which makes it the perfect choice for both gravel races and explorations alike. There’s a number of different models available, allowing this bike to sit in both the mid-range and premium end of the gravel bike market.

The Aspero-5 XPLR AXS stands out as the true pick of the bunch. This year it’s benefitted from a revamped carbon fibre frame that has been designed to split its performance between aggressive riding and endurance. There’s an adjustable head angle, which uses Trail Mixer Chips for easy handling tweaks. There’s also plenty of tyre clearance for 700x x 42mm or 650b 49mm tyres, making this bike versatile enough for any type of terrain, without sacrificing speed and performance.

Cables are fully internal routing, and there’s a dropped seatstay and an integrated cockpit in addition to the aero tube shapes, claiming 37 watts of energy savings VS its predecessors. The Groupset is from SRAM as is the Force XPLR AXS 1 x 12 groupset which offers wireless shifting precision across any riding conditions. Wheels are from Reserve and are the 40/44 GR wheels, which provide robust performance, and there’s also smart storage options like top tube mounts for added practicality.

Aspero VS Rivals

Although the Aspero is an incredible bike, there are some brilliant alternatives and options for those in the market for a new gravel bike. The new Scott Addict Gravel is such an example, especially in Addict Gravel 10 or 20 guise. This bike features progressive gravel geometry, with plenty of tyre clearance, up to 45mm in some lines and internal cable routing. Top end models feature electronic shifting and Syncros Carbon Wheel. The Addict Gravel is more of a race focused machine opposed to the more rounded Aspero, and the Addict Gravel cannot quite match the Aero design and focus of the Aspero’s profiling.

Another worthy Gravel bike for those looking for a new gravel bike, is the Orbea Terra, especially in the In M21eTeam 1X specification. This model is constructed from Orbea’s own OMR/OMX Carbon Fibre. One of the most impressive things about the Orbea is its massive tyre clearance, offering up to 50mm of clearance. The bike suits the SRAM Force XPLR AXS electronic groupset, and the bike runs on OQUO carbon wheels, and its vibration dampening design provides all day comfort and confidence. The Aspero however retains its edge when it comes to smoother sections and more spirited riding, with the Orbea providing a more relaxed, versatile setup.

Riding the Áspero-5

At Westbrook Cycles, we have been lucky enough to give the Aspero 5 a fair bit of hammering, having been sent a test bike some time ago. During this time, we have ridden the Aspero on the full range of gravel terrain, from silky smooth paths to rough tracks - and across all conditions, the bike flies.

This is a bike that you feel like you sit in, rather than sit on - and its speed is immediately noticeable. It accelerates like a road bike and takes corners without any drama. Whilst it can feel like a road bike when it comes to the pace it can put down, the trail mixer adjustments lets you run this bike slack, allowing you to enjoy technical rides and singletrack. The Aspero is surprisingly comfortable too - the carbon fibre takes a great deal of buzz from the road and trails. The AXS shifting is great, even in dry and dusty conditions - and overall, it’s a gravel bike that really pushes you on to make the most of every ride.

Overall, if you are looking for a gravel bike that prioritises speed and performance without overcomplicating things, this is a great bike, it goes up against industry powerhouses, and the design is innovative and special enough to set it apart from other brands.

Cervelo Bikes Online

At Westbrook Cycles, we stock and supply the complete range of Cervelo Bikes, all available to buy online and in store. We have a great working relationship with Cervelo, and as such, we are well placed to advise on the best Cervelo bike for your needs and riding requirements.