2011 Cervelo R3
Although the spotlight at Cervelo during Interbike was the R5ca, the R3 was also noted due to some changes that gives this road bike the same rigidity as with the R5ca but at a lower cost. The 2011 R3 has a tapered headtube, new tube shape and BBright which is an oversized bottom bracket. The BB shell is 79mm wide with internal press-in bearings. It uses 30mm cranks and BB style aluminum spindle which must be 11mm wide.
The geometry and fit for the R3 has been modified which makes the stack and reach of the bike directly proportional to the frame size. It is also longer and lower than what most people would prefer. Cervelo product manager Chris Bastie further points out, “If you ride a 58cm R3 now, you’ll fit the exact same frame size in a 2011 R3.”
Cervelo does some great designs with above average executions but their channels of distribution are so “cloudy” in the retail market. Are they an IBD brand, an internet brand-you find their offerings all over the place as well as their price structure depending on where you buy, bicycle dealer or internet!!!
I, have the r3 cervelo the best I like much.
but, I went to piermont bicicle connection in new york they dont tret people right make note of this.
I have a 2011 R-3 with Dura-Ace gruppo and Dura-Ace C-24 wheels which I upgraded from the stock Fulcrum 7s which weighed almost 2KG. The frame is stiff on accelerations and hill sprints. It is responsive and quick to the point of being almost scary compared to my two other road bikes, both Treks. It is extremely comfortable for a road bike. It is comfortable if ridden slow but comes alive and begs you for more and more speed. It is a bike which just won Paris-Roubaix 2011. It weighs in about 15 lb. with two carbon bottle cages! The 2011 R-3 runs large on the frame. My 2011 is a 54cm. My two other Treks are 56cm with a 10mm shorter stem and the R-3 feels longer with the standard stem. I still race and am competitive at age 56. I love this bike! This bike should be on your short list.