Sinn

I have a really nice problem to have. I'm sure all of you will be jealous. But please, bear with me.

I like STIFF bikes. I also like aero bikes. I am a sprinter, 145lbs, and short, 5'6, so I would get the smallest size of either one of these framesets. So I need to figure out which of these two cervelo framesets woudl suit me best.

Don't suggest the R series bikes, I would rather have the new Tarmac SL3 than those. So the choice is really ultimately between the Cervelo S2, S3, or Tarmac Sl3.

But let's focus on Cervelo here.

At this size, is there any real difference in the STIFFNESS of these two framesets at this size? The weight difference is negligible for my purposes. But if one is stiffer or more responsive than the other, if one rides like 'dead wood' and the other doesn't, that would make all the difference in the world.

PLease, I want only those that have experience with these bikes to respond.

Thanks

P.S. You are also welcome to point me to threads where this question has been answered before. I used to know how to search these forums, but the new interface never turns up useful results.

Unagidon

Would you consider 51cm? Note that the STA is 73 degrees vs. most other small bikes with 74 to 75 degree STA, so even a shorter top tube still means a longer reach. Just asking.

Sinn

I know that I need a size 48. I mention size only bc it is relevant to the stiffness of the frame.

patentcad

The S2 is probably stiffer. That's what I ride. I find the ride very comfortable, but I weigh 175 lbs.

guadzilla

FYI - Competitive has a killer deal on small S3s, btw.

Sinn

How does it compare to other bikes you've ridden and/or raced? Could you tell me how it measures up with regard to handling and responsiveness?

Sinn

And the deal is even better on the S2. Is the S3 worth the extra $ if I don't care about comfort or weight, but only the stiffness and responsiveness of the frame.

Sinn

I knew it: I've baffled you with my brilliant questions.

guadzilla

Without riding either bike, my guess would be that the differences will probably make miniscule differences in your ride.

In your shoes, I'd get the S3 simply b/c if I am ponying up all that money, I might as well pony up a little more (esp given what a nice deal the S3 bike is) and know I have the best bike in that particular series, but if you were to gift me an S2, I wouldnt whinge about it, ya know?

V.

graphs

The only thing that would hold me back from pouncing on the S3 is some reported issues with the paint. I can't remember specifically what the problem is but there's threads about it on the Cervelo forum. Worth investigating anyway.

mustang1

Also check the wheels you want with the S3 are compatible with the S3 frame. There was a thread about some wheel incompatibilities but I cant recall the details. Check Cervelo website and/or search here. I think the guy who started that thread might have been pharding.

WHOOOSSHHH...

175 !! For crying out loud. With all the riding you do..Mix in a salad every once in a while!

Sinn

$1000 difference is a big difference. And for what? A less than half pound difference in the weight of the frame? A little more compliance?

There's got to be more of a difference than that for that much money.

eric01

Nope that's pretty much it. S3 claimed to be a bit more aero too.

As for the $1000 spend to get "not much more", that's diminishing returns at the high end. Spending $1000 to go from a $500 to $1500 bike gets you a lot. Spending $1000 to go from a $4k to $5k --- not so much.

Are you test riding these frames?

Lacking

don't get an S2. I crushed a soul that had one yesterday with my allez with sora components. I smiled, he looked like he wanted to kill me, but he couldn't catch up.

Sinn

Don't worry, you wouldn't be able to do that to me.

Lacking

I figured someone would come back with something along those lines. It was the end of a 40 miles group ride and we were the rabbits on the way back. Tired and sore with a dead sprint. I probably only won because I have am 10 years younger than the other guy. Still felt good though seeing him suffer because I was hurting pretty freaking bad too.

Chris R.

Must be the bike.

eavonius

I've read that the seat stays on the S3 are thin like the R3, so it's supposed to be more forgiving to bumps and give a slightly more comfortable ride for their aero bikes. I guess the chain stays are beefier to account for this and so the power transfer is still supposed to be really good. Never ridden one but that's what competitive cyclist and the marketing folks say is the only real difference other than weight.

Unagidon

If you can afford it, get the S2 so that upgradeitis won't set in. Although for any mortal rider, and with the deals, the S2 appears to be a better deal.

patentcad

I've only had two full CF bikes: the S2 and my new Scott Addict. The S2 is the best racing bike I've ever ridden. The Six13 (half CF, half alu) I had before was a plusher ride, but I do prefer the S2. I like the S2 more than the Addict (although there are aspects about the Addict that I like as well). But overall I am thrilled with the S2, particularly for racing and competitive riding. I am surprised how comfortable it is for such a stiff bicycle. The Addict is less comfortable, but it still feels great. The latter would be a tough bike for 80+ miles over rough roads. The S2 I can ride all day long. I don't ride over 50 miles that frequently, so they all work (except for the TT bike, that's tough for 2+ hours).

JonnyUtah75

That is a pretty sick deal on the S2. Now I'm considering it.

Slightly OT: If I were to go with an S2, how much speed could I reasonably expect to gain coming from a comfort bike like a Synapse?

Unagidon

At stand still - you'll LOOK much faster.
Riding - I expect nothing less than 10 mph.....NOT. You'll go faster for sure, likely much due to psychology vs. the actual bike. I'd say < 1 mph.

JonnyUtah75

Hmmm...considering I don't race I'm not sure that small of an improvement is worth the money and a less comfortable frame. I was hoping the aero frame of the S2 would give me a bit more. *sigh*

900aero

Extra speed on a "better" bike can come in different ways but they mostly originate with the rider. Eg: you feel more confident at speed and therefore take hills & corners quicker. Or, the frame absorbs more bumps and you are able to ride more relaxed - which consumes less energy over a longer race and thus you are fresher to ride quicker. Extra speed rarely comes from riding the same piece of road in the same way as you would on your "slower" bike. Hate to say it but.......its not about the bike.