TESTED

The latest bikes and kit get put through their paces

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James Spender

Professional cycling journalist, doesn't mind bad weather, clean, GSOH, owns own bikes. Looking for a classic racer with unique sense of style for long rides in the country.

Laurence Kilpatrick

A pragmatist at heart, smart design and meaningful improvements to rider experience are what staff writer Laurence looks for when testing new bike tech.

Matthew Loveridge

Former Cyclist web editor Matthew is an expert on bike tech with years of testing experience. He appreciates thoughtfully designed bikes and practical innovations.

Sam Challis

Tech editor Sam used to be a fan of speed at any cost, but now he leans towards the practical too: well-designed features that make rides comfortable and bikes easy to live with. Ever heard of the BBC music show The Old Grey Whistle Test?

Cervélo S5

Proof that aero isn't dead. In fact it might be the new all-rounder

Words James Spender Photography Joseph Branston

Ever wondered what the title meant? So the story goes, music execs would play early cuts of records to the grey-suited doormen on New York's Tin Pan Alley, known as 'the old greys', and if they could whistle the tune back after only hearing it a few times, it was deemed likely to become a hit.

What does this have to do with the latest Cervélo S5? If there was such a thing as the 'old passerby whistle test', this bike would be top of the charts longer than Bryan Adams. The number of times I've heard something along the lines of 'oi mate, what kind of bike is that and how much does it cost?' while hanging around with the S5 is quite incredible. But does that a good bike make?