PRO BIKE SPEC
Rachel Joyce’s Cervélo P5X
I made the switch from the Cervélo
P5 just three weeks before Ironman Boulder in 2017, which I went on to win! I’ve ridden Cervélo since 2011 and I take great confidence from riding their bikes as I’ve seen first-hand how much R&D they put into their bike development.
I knew when they launched the P5X at Hawaii in 2016 that it was going to be fast. It feels like it gathers momentum the faster you go. It’s also super stiff, which I didn’t expect when I looked at it, and it’s the most comfortable triathlon bike that I’ve ever ridden. Cervélo have addressed some tri-specific logistics, such as integrated storage, adjustability and ease of packing. But the disc brakes are one of my favourite features, because they’re so reliable and I don’t have to worry about not being able to stop on long descents. I had several fit sessions with Mat Steinmetz of 51 Speedshop, who was also involved in the P5X’s design process. After Ironman Boulder I had some issues with my neck, but it was so easy to raise the front end and make my position less aggressive.
1
Enve rear: 7.8; front: 4.5. I tend to train and race on these. I like to have a slightly shallower wheel at the front, and the 4.5 is a good balance of aerodynamics and stability for when it’s windy.
2
My storage is integrated into the frame, which makes things really clean for race-day set-up – no more taping gels to the frame!
3
The groupset is Shimano Dura-Ace 54/11 and 23/11. I’ll change my rear cassette if I’m racing a particularly hilly course but generally these gears stand me in good stead for most race courses I compete on.
4
My saddle is the ISM PN1.0 – a comfortable saddle should never be underestimated!