Cervélo have already scored two Paris-Roubaix victories using their modified R3 frames and based on that track record, it seems only logical that they should build their new TestTeam bikes exactly the same way.
Conveniently, Cervélo now have an easier time getting the Roubaix bikes ready for the team since the new RS frame now includes most of the special geometry changes in stock form.
We still managed to spot a few changes from previous Cervélo Paris-Roubaix specials though. As we have previously mentioned, the modified RS bikes sport long-reach brake callipers at both ends, but the bikes also showed up with different forks on the morning of Paris-Roubaix.
The Paris-Roubaix fork crowns were noticeably bigger and wider for additional clearance than those used by Roger Hammond at Ronde van Vlaanderen, and also used aluminium fork tips instead of carbon. The legs and steerer tube were definitely carbon fibre but we’re unsure of the crown.
As was the case earlier in the week, most of the guys were using Shimano Dura-Ace 7800 components instead of the newer 7900 bits – including Thor Hushovd who crossed the line in third after an unfortunate crash late in the race.
However, one exception on Sunday was seventh place finisher Heinrich Haussler, who was fully decked out in the newest Dura-Ace along with Rotor Q-Rings while the rest of his team-mates ran round rings.
One last change from Cervélos of yesteryear was the rear brake cable routing. Gone was the full-length housing and trio of zip-tie guides below the top tube in favor of the stock housing stops. Sealed Gore housing was used instead for essentially the same effect.
Haussler was the only Cervélo TestTeam rider to use Rotor Q-Rings for Paris-Roubaix