Pinarello F5 Shimano 105 Di2 2026: test review, pros, cons, problems, opinions, everything you (really) need to know

Pinarello F5 Shimano 105 Di2 2026: test review, pros, cons, problems, opinions, everything you (really) need to know

Pinarello F5 Shimano 105 Di2 2026 Review: Build Quality

The Pinarello F5 Shimano 105 Di2 2026 is a flawlessly manufactured bicycle. While expensive, from a quality standpoint, there are no justifiable complaints. No significant differences are apparent when compared to the more costly Pinarello F 2026 models.

True to Pinarello tradition, the wide availability of sizes is a positive factor and superior to the competition. The range of component assemblies is good, and the various components used are excellent.

The value for money is adequate; the bike is costly but also exceptionally well-made. The bike's predictably high resale value on the used market should also be considered. The primary drawbacks are the overall weight and the price point.

Pinarello F5 Shimano 105 Di2 2026 Review: Frame

The frame of the Pinarello F5 Shimano 105 Di2 2026 is of excellent quality. The range of colors is also good.

Furthermore, it is virtually impossible not to find the perfect fit. It is not a custom frame, but it comes very close to it—a significant advantage. In this version, the weight is 8.2 kg. This is not light for a price of approximately €5,500, which is not inexpensive, but it is an improvement over the previous version. Some competitors, however, do not achieve better results.

Pinarello F5 Shimano 105 Di2 2026 Review: Components

Assembled with the Shimano 105 Di2 groupset, nothing has been left to chance. The bicycle is attractive, well-assembled, and features high-quality components. It is a pity that this combination does not translate into a truly competitive weight.

Pinarello F5 Shimano 105 Di2 2026 Review: Comfort

One of the best aspects of the Pinarello F5 Shimano 105 Di2 2026 is its riding comfort. For a racing bicycle, it is remarkably comfortable—not a true endurance bike, but very close. Even on sections of poor-quality asphalt, the riding comfort is commendable. This is an excellent result that characterizes the bicycle and distinguishes it from the Dogma F.

Pinarello F5 Shimano 105 Di2 2026 Review: Handling

The Pinarello F5 Shimano 105 Di2 2026 adheres to the classic Pinarello handling philosophy: it rides like a "pedal-powered motorcycle."

It is precise, secure, stable, intuitive, and easy to ride. In fact, it is even more stable and secure at high speeds and on rough surfaces. It proves easy to handle on hilly terrain and on twisty routes. It remains stable and easy to control on damaged asphalt sections. It is beyond reproach at very high speeds, even on broken pavement, where it proves to be a very secure racing bicycle. Stability and control under braking are excellent. It is impossible to find a flaw on the steepest and most perilous descents.

The frame is excellent, offering great stability, ease of handling, and safety at high speeds. From a handling perspective, it is virtually identical to other Pinarello F models, with no notable differences.

Pinarello F5 Shimano 105 Di2 2026 Review: Performance

The weight can be considered its weak point. It is true that similar competitors have the same weight, but it is also true that its 8.2 kg is keenly felt on climbs, even with a very stiff frame that efficiently transfers power to the rear wheel. However, it should be noted that its weight is in line with other racing bikes in its class.

Therefore, while there may be faster climbing bikes, the overall performance is absolutely competitive. Moreover, even on climbs, by exploiting the frame's stiffness, it often outperforms even more highly regarded racing bikes.

It remains a racing bicycle for powerful athletes who know how to take advantage of its frame's stiffness. The excellent frame rigidity and good aerodynamics ensure competitive performance on the flats and rolling terrain, good performance on climbs, and excellent performance on descents, thanks to its stability and security. Overall, it's an excellent all-around racing bike, perhaps only slightly penalized on the toughest climbs. Furthermore, its good riding comfort allows it to be very competitive over extremely long distances.

Pinarello F5 Shimano 105 Di2 2026 Review: Pros and Cons

The Pinarello F5 Shimano 105 Di2 2026 successfully completes the 2026 F-Series lineup. While slightly heavier and similarly well-constructed, it is the most affordable option in the F-range.

It is a high-quality racing bicycle that is secure, stable, comfortable, and easy to ride. It is a bit heavy and quite expensive, but it aligns with competitors who are often less refined, offer fewer sizes, less frame stiffness, and less comfort. It may not be the ultimate racing bike, but it has many advantages in its favor. It is unlikely to win over non-Pinarello enthusiasts, but it is certainly a valid alternative to the other Pinarello F models and an excellent high-end racing bicycle.

If you have other curiosities you can write to: salvatelliluca @ hotmail.com 

NDR: the photo does not refer to the specific bike being tested