Cervélo has introduced its first e-road bike called the Rouvida, offering enthusiasts a single solution for tackling both on and off-road pursuits, along with a boost of assistance when the terrain gets tough.
In addition to its robust Fazua Ride 60 mid-motor and 432Wh battery that can deliver up 60Nm of torque, what really gives the Rouvida its dexterity are the interchangeable “flip chip” dropouts, allowing the bike’s geometry to be configured based on riding style and the desired amount of clearance.
Fazua Ride 60 Drive System:
“We designed some clever interchangeable dropouts that significantly alter the geometry of the bike, so the road bike feels like a road bike, and the gravel bike feels like a gravel bike. These interchangeable dropouts have the effect of rotating the entire frame to achieve the fit and handling you expect from a Cervélo road bike, and from a Cervélo gravel bike,” explains the Canadian brand.
However, unlike other “flip chip” set-ups that are easily swapped-out, Cervélo’s design requires the use of firmware in order to adjust the Rouvida’s power output to match its intended application, a service that must be performed by a dealer.
Road & Gravel Geometry Comparison:
Aesthetics also played an important role when developing the Rouvida, with the goal of making the bike virtually indistinguishable from a standard road bike thanks to a motor and battery that are hidden in the bottom bracket area. Likewise for the power indicator module, which is neatly integrated into the top tube.
“While the design brief didn’t actually say, ‘Don’t make it look like an e-bike,’ it was definitely at the forefront of our thoughts throughout the process,” says Cervélo. “We considered every angle, and the result is a bike that looks right at home alongside any of our aero models. The Road Control puts power and assist control in a natural location in the handlebar’s drop, and an indicator panel on the top tube includes a USB charging port for lights or accessories.”
Split between road and gravel, the Rouvida is offered in four guises. Here’s how the models breakdown:
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