Look Unveils G85 Cezal RS: A Dedicated Gravel Race Machine

Look, the renowned French bicycle manufacturer, has unveiled its latest innovation, the G85 Cezal RS gravel bike. This new model represents a significant step towards specialization in the rapidly evolving gravel cycling segment, building upon the success of its versatile predecessor, the G85 Cezal. Co-developed with the accomplished privateer racer Russell Finsterwald, the G85 Cezal RS is engineered for speed and performance, offering a dedicated race-focused option that complements Look's existing gravel lineup. This strategic release demonstrates Look's commitment to catering to the diverse needs of gravel riders, from all-around enthusiasts to competitive racers, by providing specialized tools for every challenge.

Look G85 Cezal RS: A New Era in Gravel Racing

In a move that solidifies its position in the gravel market, Look has officially launched the G85 Cezal RS, a high-performance gravel race bike designed for uncompromising speed and efficiency. This release follows the successful introduction of the G85 Cezal earlier this year, a bike praised for its versatility and ability to perform across various terrains. The original G85 Cezal quickly gained acclaim, particularly after privateer Russell Finsterwald rode it to victory in the prestigious US Belgian Waffle Race, cementing its reputation as a capable all-rounder.

However, recognizing the growing demand for specialized racing machines, Look collaborated with Finsterwald to create the G85 Cezal RS. This new model is not merely an iteration but a distinct offering tailored for competitive gravel racing. The primary differentiation lies in the frame material and construction. Look has employed a newly redesigned High Modulus (HM) carbon layup, which results in a significant weight reduction of 200g compared to the standard G85 Cezal. The claimed weight for the RS frame in a size medium is a competitive 1,000g, placing it firmly in the elite category for gravel race frames. This weight saving is achieved, in part, by sacrificing the internal downtube storage found in the original model, prioritizing performance over utility for racing scenarios.

Beyond weight reduction, the new carbon layup substantially enhances the frame's stiffness. Look reports a 19% increase in bottom bracket stiffness and a 20% increase in head tube stiffness. These improvements are engineered to maximize power transfer during sprints, climbs, and accelerations, providing a more direct and responsive riding experience. Remarkably, the head tube stiffness of the G85 Cezal RS is even greater than that of Look's 795 Blade RS 3 road race bike, which competed in this year's Tour de France, underscoring the RS's aggressive racing pedigree.

Despite these gains in stiffness, Look asserts that the bike's compliance has not been compromised. The G85 Cezal RS incorporates the 3D Wave Flex System seatstays, designed to effectively absorb vibrations and maintain tire contact with the ground. This feature is crucial for improving rolling efficiency and rider comfort over rough gravel terrain. The bike maintains impressive tire clearance, accommodating up to 57mm in the front and 50mm in the rear for a 1x setup, or 45mm for a 2x configuration, allowing riders to optimize traction and comfort for diverse conditions.

The geometry of the G85 Cezal RS largely mirrors that of its predecessor, ensuring a proven and balanced ride. A size medium features a 590mm stack height, 380mm reach, 70-degree head tube angle, 74-degree seat tube angle, and 425mm chainstays. Furthermore, the frame is designed to be compatible with suspension forks offering up to 60mm of travel, providing additional versatility for extremely challenging courses.

Look's approach to making the RS 'race-ready' focuses on real-world advantages rather than solely on aerodynamic tube shapes. This includes a meticulously tuned front end and cockpit options that enable riders to maintain an aerodynamically efficient position comfortably for extended periods. This holistic design philosophy, combining compliance, wide tire clearance, and rider-focused ergonomics, aims to deliver superior control, comfort, and ultimately, faster times on demanding gravel courses.

The G85 Cezal RS is available in three distinct options: two complete SRAM builds and a standalone frameset. The top-tier model, the G85 Cezal RS SRAM Red XPLR AXS, features a 44T aero chainring, Look Aero Carbon RS 3 handlebar and stem, and Fulcrum Shraq C25 wheels paired with 45mm Hutchinson Touareg Race tires, priced at €8,990 with a system weight of 7.9kg. The G85 Cezal RS SRAM Force XPLR AXS offers a slightly more accessible option at €6,990, weighing 8.3kg, and includes a 40T chainring with Deda Superzero Carbon bars and a Superbox stem. For those preferring a custom build, the frameset is available for €3,290, including a Token T47 bottom bracket, 160mm flat mount hardware, and a Look LS1 27.2mm carbon seatpost.

The introduction of the G85 Cezal RS by Look highlights a clear trend in the cycling industry towards greater specialization. While the original G85 Cezal proved that an all-rounder could indeed excel, the RS demonstrates that dedicated race machines are essential for pushing the boundaries of performance. This strategic expansion of their gravel line ensures that Look remains at the forefront of innovation, offering riders precisely what they need to conquer any gravel challenge, whether it's a long adventure ride or a full-throttle race. It also underscores the idea that a comprehensive product ecosystem, with options for various riding styles, ultimately benefits the rider by providing purpose-built equipment.