CERVELO ASPERO APEX XPLR 1 2026

In 2019, Áspero took the gravel world by storm, heralding a “new era of speed in gravel.” The new Áspero remains true to its original brief, but with some improvements: a threaded BB shell, neater cable routing, and a UDH-compatible derailleur hanger for those who want to use SRAM’s Transmission drivetrains. And it’s more aero, of course. In the case of Áspero, aerodynamic performance is less about pure speed as a result of drag reduction, and more about conservation of energy. After a big day in a headwind, the three watts saved over the previous Aspero might add up to one less energy gel your stomach has to digest—WORTH IT. In addition to the drag reduction, we also dropped the seat stays to give a bit more compliance out back, and reduced front-end stiffness slightly to make the last hours of a long race less painful. Between those dropped seat stays, we added in a bit more clearance for mud, too, taking what we learned from R5-CX (and the Unbound mudfest in 2023). It’s a lot of seemingly small improvements, but they add up to a lot. The result is a bike that feels a lot like the original Áspero, but is faster, more comfortable, and more versatile.

What it’s for

Fun…but flat out!

Highlights

• Fast carbon gravel race frame delivers road-like speed with the control and durability needed for rough gravel and mixed terrain
• SRAM Apex XPLR 1×12 mechanical drivetrain offers simple, reliable shifting with a wide 11–44T range built for climbing and fast rolling sections
• Race-inspired geometry keeps handling sharp and responsive for high-speed gravel riding and competition
• Carbon fork and refined frame design improve comfort and reduce fatigue on longer rides and rough surfaces
• Clearance for up to ~45mm tyres increases grip, stability, and versatility across gravel, dirt, and all-road conditions

Specs