Cervélo ZFS-5
91/100
BikeRide Score
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Facts
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Release Year
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Gearing Type
Suspension
Brake Type
Frame Material
Summary of Reviews
We have read all expert and user reviews on the Cervélo ZFS-5. In summary, this is what cyclists think.
19 reasons to buy
- The Cervélo ZFS-5 is an “extremely fast” XC race machine that rewards max-effort riding.
- This bike is available with 100mm travel for XC racing or in a 120mm/115mm “trail-friendly” format.
- A tester of the ZFS-5 120 appreciates the extra comfort and versatility compared to the 100mm-travel builds.
- All experts relish the “effortless” climbing performance.
- Experts enjoy the support and high-speed control from the ZFS-5’s suspension.
- Reviewers report snappy, responsive pedaling performance and minimal pedal bob.
- The ZFS-5’s “turn-on-a-dime” handling precision impresses testers.
- Testers of both builds are surprised by how hard the “aggressive” ZFS-5 can be pushed on descents.
- Reviewers praise the comfort and smooth ride over small bumps.
- Experts appreciate the ability to hold speed through tight turns.
- Testers say it takes minimal effort to get the “poppy” and “springy” ZFS-5 airborne.
- Multiple experts highlight the bike’s agility for tackling tight uphill switchbacks and navigating tight singletrack.
- Experts enjoy the compliant Reserve carbon wheels, reporting a "superb record for impact durability."
- The 2.4” Maxxis Rekon Race tires provide “ample traction in nearly every situation.”
- One expert hails the shift quality from the SRAM XX SL AXS as “second to none.”
- Cervélo provides a lifetime warranty for the frame.
- The ZFS-5 frameset is one of the lightest on the market.
- A tester appreciates the “superb” contact points.
- Cervélo chose a durable BSA threaded bottom bracket for this bike.
6 reasons not to buy
- Experts say the highly progressive rear suspension limits effective travel and reduces composure on rougher terrain.
- Two testers complain that the front and rear suspension are mismatched, with the rear end more progressive.
- Reviewers lament the headset cable routing, which adds complexity to maintenance and repairs.
- The 100mm ZFS-5 builds lack a dropper post.
- Two testers complain of the slightly delayed shifting speed when using the SRAM XX SL AXS setup.
- Two reviewers think the 160mm brake rotors are too small; one reports brake fade on long, steep descents.
Bottom line
Cervélo’s ZFS-5 is a full-suspension XC mountain bike available in six builds. The race-ready version has 100mm of travel; the trail-friendly setup has 120mm (front) and 115mm (rear). Both configurations earn top marks for climbing prowess, precision handling, and the capacity to be pushed hard. Supportive suspension makes it easy to hold high speeds over repeated small bumps, but an overly progressive rear end limits composure through rougher sections. Testers laud most of Cervélo’s component and design choices but question the frustrating headset cable routing and lack of dropper (race-ready builds). Overall, experts agree the ZFS-5 is an excellent XC bike in either setup.
Expert Reviews
87/100 based on 3 rated expert reviewsCervélo ZFS-5 XX SL AXS Review
Cervelo ZFS-5 Review | A Brand New XC Bike That’s Surprised Us in More Ways Than One
Cervelo ZFS-5 Frame Review – Rad MTB Racer From Speed Hungry Roadies
The Cervélo ZFS-5 Review – How Much Cervélo Is in This Mountain Bike?
Cervelo ZFS-5 Race MTB Mid-Term Live Ride Review
First Look: Cervélo ZFS-5 120 X0 AXS Mountain Bike
Cervelo ZFS-5 Review: A Superb XC Race Machine From an Unlikely Source
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Cervélo ZFS-5 Test: A Cross-Country Mountain Bike to Win Races! (Mountain Bike Winner) [French]
Test | Cervélo ZFS-5: Comfort and Performance Are Not Antonyms [French]
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