Look 795 Blade RS vs 785 Huez: Which Road Bike Matches Your Riding Style? (2025)
The Look 795 Blade RS weighs an impressive 905g for the frame alone, making it one of the lightest aero road bikes today. The Look 795 Blade RS and 785 Huez represent two different philosophies in road cycling. The 795 Blade RS's frame is 7% stiffer and delivers 10% better aerodynamics than its predecessors. The 785 Huez stands out with its 7.6kg weight with an Ultegra groupset, placing it among the world's lightest climbing bikes.
These bikes excel in their own ways. The 795 Blade RS costs around €9790/$11000 and comes with six frame sizes and 35 cockpit options. This versatility makes it perfect for riders who want peak aerodynamic performance. The 785 Huez costs about €8000 and caters to climbers with its comfort-focused geometry for long uphill rides. The 765 Optimum presents a value option under €4000. Its 3D Wave technology seatstays provide 20% more comfort compared to standard designs.
These options might seem a lot to process. But here's the good news - you'll find your perfect match whether you prefer the 795 Blade RS with its 25% ultra-high modulus carbon or the climbing-specialist 785 Huez, which builds on the Look 585's legacy. Let's take a closer look at what sets these machines apart and help you find your ideal ride.
Frame Design and Geometry Differences
Frame Design and Geometry Differences
The geometry charts show the biggest difference between these two Look models. Their design philosophies create unique riding experiences through smart engineering choices.
Stack and Reach: 795 Blade RS vs 785 Huez
The 795 Blade RS has a medium frame with 549.2mm stack height and 391.2mm reach. This creates a stack-to-reach ratio of 1.40 [1]. The 785 Huez takes a more compact approach with 519.2mm stack and 365.3mm reach [2]. These core measurements shape how each bike positions the rider.
Riders often say the 795 Blade RS feels slightly longer and lower than what the geometry chart shows [3]. The bike puts you in a more stretched-out position than the numbers suggest—something to think over if you're between sizes.
Rider Positioning: Aero vs Upright Geometry
The 795 Blade RS geometry puts competition first with a design that makes the most of aerodynamics and power transfer [1]. The steep 74.5° seat tube angle is a full degree more than many rivals. This moves the rider forward over the pedals [4]. A long 400mm reach creates an aggressive, stretched-out profile that's perfect for racing.
The 785 Huez takes a different path with its climbing-focused geometry. The design keeps you more upright and comfortable during long climbs. You'll find it easier to pedal standing up when the road gets steep [3]. This approach matches other climbing bikes like the Giant TCR or Cannondale SuperSix Hi-Mod—bikes that shine in the mountains [2].
The 795 Blade RS may be built for speed, but it's also flexible. Look gives you six frame sizes with 35 different cockpit setups. This helps riders find their sweet spot without giving up racing performance [1].
Frame Weight: 940g vs 730g (Size Medium)
The frame build creates another key difference between these bikes. The 795 Blade RS employs a special carbon fiber mix with 25% ultra-high modulus fibers [1]. This results in a frame weight of about 905g (size small) and a 425g fork [1]. Complete builds can hit around 7kg [5].
The 785 Huez makes climbing its priority through high-modulus fibers and minimalist Nano tubes [4]. This setup gives you maximum power transfer while staying flexible enough for long mountain rides. A complete 785 Huez RS with Ultegra groupset weighs in at 7.6kg [3]. That's incredibly light but still a bit more than the race-ready 795 Blade RS.
The 795 Blade RS gets 7% more stiffness from its carbon makeup and design [1]. This shows up especially around the bottom bracket where power transfer matters most. Both frames showcase Look's engineering skills, just aimed at different riding styles.
Performance on Different Terrains
Performance on Different Terrains
These two Look models show their unique personalities on various riding surfaces. Their engineering choices shine through in real-life performance.
Climbing Efficiency: Lightweight vs Aero Stiffness
The Look 795 Blade RS climbs remarkably well for an aero bike. It makes use of frame stiffness instead of chasing the lightest possible weight. This creates a snappy platform that transfers power well on uphill sections [6]. Riders have set PRs on short, punchy climbs where the stiff frame helps them push bigger power [5].
The 785 Huez stands out as a dedicated climbing machine. The frame helps riders accelerate quickly as the road tilts up [7]. Weighing approximately 7.6kg with an Ultegra groupset makes it one of the lightest climbing bikes you can find [8]. The latest 785 Huez got a major upgrade from its previous version - it's more than a pound lighter and much stiffer than before [9].
Flat Road Speed: Aero Tubing vs Traditional Design
The 795 Blade RS comes alive on flat terrain. Its wind-tunnel tested frame uses specially shaped tube sections that cut through air resistance [10]. Riders say it seems to "slice" through the air and naturally rolls faster [5]. You'll notice how much easier it is to keep high speeds, which helps during long efforts on flat roads [8].
The 785 Huez trades some flat-road speed for its climbing ability with traditional tube shapes. In spite of that, its lightweight build handles varied terrain well.
Descending Stability: Handling and Braking Feel
Each bike excels at descending for unique reasons. The 795 Blade RS geometry keeps things steady at high speeds [10]. Riders describe the handling as precise but not nervous, which builds confidence in fast corners [5]. You'll feel how planted the stiff frame is during high-speed descents.
The 785 Huez proves itself as a capable descender [9]. You need some skill to handle its precise steering, but the stable rear end helps balance things out. The bike fits tires up to 32mm [7], which gives you better grip and control on descents than narrower options.
Disk brake versions of both bikes give you better control and consistent stopping power - exactly what you need on technical descents. This braking performance combines with their handling traits to make you feel confident going downhill, whatever model you pick.
Comfort and Ride Feel
Comfort and Ride Feel
The design philosophies between these Look models show clear differences in their ride characteristics.
Seatpost and Saddle Design: Aeropost vs Traditional
The 795 Blade RS comes with the innovative AEROPOST 2 seatpost that flips to give riders a choice between 0mm or 25mm offset [11]. This adjustment helps fine-tune your riding position but creates a feeling where you sit "perched" on top of the bike instead of being integrated between the wheels. The saddle choice matches this race-oriented approach. Look equips the 795 Blade RS with a LOOK-branded Selle San Marco Shortfit Open Dynamic saddle with manganese rails [5]. Though not a top-shelf carbon option, its shape matches the prominent Selle San Marco Shortfit Carbon FX. This delivers reliable comfort to riders who like saddles with both fore-aft and side-to-side curvature.
Vibration Dampening: 3D Wave vs Rigid Carbon
The 795 Blade RS puts stiffness ahead of compliance, which results in a firmer ride. Riders say its spine offers "not much in the way of give" on rough surfaces [4]. This differs from Look's endurance-focused models like the 765 Optimum. The 765 uses 3D Wave technology in the seatstays to provide 20% more comfort than conventional designs [12]. The 795 Blade RS lacks this technology, so you feel more road feedback on rough surfaces. Even with 28mm tires, riders find the 795 Blade RS gives a "fairly harsh ride" when pavement quality drops [4].
Long Ride Suitability: Endurance vs Race Geometry
The 785 Huez has better geometry to handle extended rides. The 795 Blade RS puts comfort "down the list of priorities" compared to racing performance with its competition-focused position [1]. You'll need to maintain a more aggressive, aerodynamic position that gets uncomfortable over long distances [11]. Reviewers suggest the 785 Huez would be "better suited for a day of multiple long, Alpine-like climbs" [5]. This makes it a great choice for endurance-focused riders. A simple truth emerges here - endurance geometry often helps most riders go faster over long distances because comfort reduces fatigue [13].
Component and Build Options
Component and Build Options
Look models come with unique component packages that match their riding purposes. The bikes have different groupsets, wheels, and cockpit setups.
Groupset Variants: Ultegra Di2 vs SRAM Red
The 795 Blade RS comes with top-tier drivetrain choices. Riders who want electronic shifting can get the Ultegra Di2 build for £8,390 [1]. The SRAM Red eTap AXS version costs £11,490 [1]. The Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 setup ranges from £9,690 to £9,990 [1]. This premium option delivers precise 12-speed shifting with 52/36 chainrings and an 11-34 cassette [2].
The 785 Huez has more budget-friendly options. It features Shimano 105 Di2 with 50/34 chainrings and 11-34 cassettes [2]. You can also get it with SRAM Rival eTap AXS wireless setup that uses 48/35 chainrings and a 10-30 cassette [14]. This gives climbing enthusiasts a wider gear range.
Both bikes focus on electronic shifting technology. The 12-speed Di2 systems really shine on the road. Reviewers say: "The shifting is fast and sure. Just requires a light tap of the shift button" [5].
Wheelset Choices: Corima vs R38 Carbon
These models stand apart in their wheel choices. The 795 Blade RS rolls on Corima 47mm WS EVO Tubeless wheels [6]. These aero wheels cost more but help you go faster with their deep rim design.
The 785 Huez usually comes with Look's R38D carbon wheels. At 1660g per pair [15], these 38mm-deep wheels balance weight and aerodynamics perfectly. Look and Corima worked together to create wheels that offer "the perfect compromise between lightness and inertia" [15] on any terrain.
Both wheel options are tubeless-ready. High-end builds use Continental GP5000 tires while mid-range versions come with Hutchinson Fusion 5 [2].
Cockpit Adjustability: Modular vs Integrated Setup
The 795 Blade RS sports a clever cockpit design that looks integrated but lets you make adjustments. The LOOK Combo Aero Carbon stem weighs 140g and works with a matching carbon handlebar to hide cables inside [2]. The stem and handlebar remain separate [1], so you can choose from "35 different cockpit options" [1].
The 785 Huez keeps things simple with LOOK's LS3 alloy stem and aero handlebar combo [2]. This classic setup might not be as aero but makes adjustments easy without special tools or unique parts.
These component picks shape each bike's value proposition. Build kits make a big difference in the final price between these carbon frames.
Price and Value for Money
Price and Value for Money
Smart buyers need to think about more than just the initial cost when choosing between Look models. The long-term value and customization options play a big role too.
Base Build Pricing: $8,000 vs $6,500
The Look 795 Blade RS sits at the premium end of the price spectrum. The Ultegra Di2 build with Corima WS EVO wheels costs $8,390 [1]. Higher-end builds will set you back $11,490 for SRAM Red eTap AXS [1] and between $9,690-$9,990 for Dura-Ace Di2 [1]. The top-tier Super Record EPS version comes in at $14,600 [3].
The 785 Huez gives you more budget-friendly options. You can get base models around $6,500 [3], which saves you quite a bit compared to the 795 Blade RS. Some shops even sell last year's models for $2,500 [16]. This makes it easier to get your hands on Look's premium carbon technology.
Weight-to-Price Ratio
The numbers tell an interesting story about value. You'll pay about $3,500 more for the 795 Blade RS compared to similar 785 Huez builds [2]. The weight difference? Minimal. Your extra money goes toward aerodynamic design rather than weight savings.
The 785 Huez makes a strong case for climbers watching their budget. A complete Ultegra bike weighs around 7.6kg [17] and costs about 30% less than its 795 Blade RS counterpart. This makes it a better value if climbing matters more to you than aerodynamics.
Upgrade Potential and Customization
Both bikes give you room to grow. The 795 Blade RS needs just a stem change for that perfect fit [5]. Other worthwhile upgrades include tubeless 28mm tires for better comfort, oval chainrings that help you climb, and premium saddles like the 3D printed Shortfit Racing model [5].
The 785 Huez frame proves to be a great foundation for future upgrades [16]. One rider saw amazing improvements with new wheels alone. Premium carbon wheels "dropped more than a pound" and "brought the bike to life" [16]. This makes the 785 Huez a smart long-term investment.
The bottom line? The 795 Blade RS packs more tech at a higher price, while the 785 Huez gives you great value if climbing performance and gradual upgrades matter most.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Look 795 Blade RS | Look 785 Huez |
|---|---|---|
| Frame Weight | 905g (frame only) | 730g (size medium) |
| Complete Bike Weight | ~7kg | 7.6kg (Ultegra build) |
| Stack Height | 549.2mm | 519.2mm |
| Reach | 391.2mm | 365.3mm |
| Seat Tube Angle | 74.5° | Not mentioned |
| Frame Stiffness | 7% stiffer than previous model | Not mentioned |
| Tire Clearance | Not mentioned | Up to 32mm |
| Frame Sizes | 6 sizes available | Not mentioned |
| Cockpit Options | 35 configurations | Traditional setup |
| Carbon Construction | 25% ultra-high modulus | High-modulus with Nano tubes |
| Base Price | €9,790/$11,000 | €8,000 |
| Design Focus | Aerodynamic optimization | Climbing performance |
| Comfort Features | Limited compliance | Enhanced for long climbs |
| Recommended Use | Racing and versatility | Mountain climbing and endurance |
| Standard Build | Ultegra Di2 with Corima wheels | Ultegra with R38D wheels |
Conclusion
Choosing Between Look's Elite Road Machines
The aerodynamic 795 Blade RS and the climbing-focused 785 Huez from Look offer distinct riding experiences. Your riding priorities and local terrain should help you make the right choice.
The 795 Blade RS shines as a versatile option that delivers both speed and efficiency. The bike's 905g frame weight, 7% greater stiffness, and 10% improved aerodynamics make it perfect for flat terrain and short, punchy climbs. On top of that, its aggressive geometry with a steep 74.5° seat tube angle puts you forward over the pedals to maximize power transfer during sprints. The price tag of €9,790/$11,000 might seem steep, but six frame sizes and 35 cockpit configurations let you dial in your fit whatever your body type.
Look's climbing heritage comes alive in the 785 Huez. At just 7.6kg with an Ultegra groupset, this bike runs on long mountain ascents where its geometry gives you better comfort and control. The 785 Huez's more upright position works better for endurance rides in a variety of terrain. The €8,000 price point makes it available to more riders while keeping Look's renowned carbon expertise.
These bikes handle descents beautifully, each in their own way. The 795 Blade RS stays rock-solid at high speeds thanks to its aero profile. The 785 Huez offers precise handling and fits wider 32mm tires to improve grip and comfort.
Without doubt, both models showcase Look's steadfast dedication to performance engineering. Your choice comes down to what matters more - aero efficiency or climbing prowess. The 795 Blade RS makes sense for flat courses and criterium races, while the 785 Huez fits better for mountain routes and all-day comfort.
The advanced aerodynamics of the 795 Blade RS and the climbing efficiency of the 785 Huez both capture Look's racing heritage and innovative spirit. The best choice depends on where and how you plan to expand your limits.
FAQs
Q1. What are the key differences between the Look 795 Blade RS and 785 Huez? The 795 Blade RS is an aerodynamic race bike weighing around 7kg, while the 785 Huez is a lightweight climbing bike at 7.6kg. The 795 has a more aggressive geometry with a 74.5° seat tube angle, while the 785 has a more relaxed position for long climbs. The 795 is pricier, starting around $11,000, compared to $8,000 for the 785.
Q2. What tire sizes can these Look bikes accommodate? The Look 785 Huez can fit tires up to 32mm wide, allowing for increased comfort and versatility. The exact tire clearance for the 795 Blade RS is not specified, but it likely accommodates standard road bike tire widths of 25-28mm.
Q3. How do these bikes perform on different terrains? The 795 Blade RS excels on flat roads and short climbs due to its aerodynamic design and stiff frame. The 785 Huez is optimized for long mountain climbs with its lightweight build and comfortable geometry. Both bikes offer good descending capabilities, with the 795 providing high-speed stability and the 785 offering precise handling.
Q4. What are the customization options for these Look bikes? The 795 Blade RS offers extensive customization with 6 frame sizes and 35 cockpit configurations. It's available with various high-end groupsets like Ultegra Di2, SRAM Red eTap AXS, and Dura-Ace Di2. The 785 Huez has fewer customization options but still offers choices in groupsets and wheels, with potential for future upgrades.
Q5. Which Look bike offers better value for money? The 785 Huez generally offers better value, with a lower starting price of around $6,500 and similar performance to the 795 Blade RS in climbing scenarios. However, the 795 Blade RS justifies its higher price with advanced aerodynamic features and more customization options. The best value depends on your specific riding needs and budget.
References
[1] - https://road.cc/content/feature/look-795-blade-rs-first-impressions-road-313135
[2] - https://bikes.fan/compare/look-785-huez-gray-blue-satin-2024/look-795-blade-rs-pro-team-black-mat-glossy-2023/
[3] - https://revolutionbikeshop.com/look/road/bikes/
[4] - https://www.cyclist.co.uk/reviews/look-795-blade-rs-road-bike-review
[5] - https://pezcyclingnews.com/technspec/look-795-blade-rs-review-proteam-white-dead-sexy/
[6] - https://www.cyclingnews.com/reviews/look-795-blade-rs-review-the-climbers-aero-bike/
[7] - https://www.lookcycle.com/us-en/785-huez?srsltid=AfmBOopq1iVUyU0207A1XReYIuBj89SXV-cUQVSebmjN26hxLJUyKzgx
[8] - https://www.thecyclisthouse.com/en/blogs/news/velo-look-795-785-765-comparatif?srsltid=AfmBOoqQyaiZRZ3-ZRWT-UDlsQOrOewb1voOLRQaCJcVTPIpeJ9pBBt-
[9] - https://roadbikeaction.com/look-785-huez-rs-review/
[10] - https://www.lookcycle.com/bo-en/795-blade-rs?srsltid=AfmBOor1a_5IFbdWNHhcVUcV23UJUKwz82huAonGMNsj7k1eB8r_BBac
[11] - https://granfondo-cycling.com/look-795-blade-rs-disk-2020-review/
[12] - https://www.thecyclisthouse.com/en/blogs/news/velo-look-795-785-765-comparatif?srsltid=AfmBOormHK6Nf7Cv1AtP3AYR9sGUJJe-B76JrmSjTk6MtE2k-UfJG2Lu
[13] - https://road.cc/content/feature/endurance-bike-vs-road-race-bike-speed-test-307891
[14] - https://99spokes.com/compare?bikes=look-785-huez-gray-blue-satin-2024,look-785-huez-interference-red-mat-glossy-2024,look-785-huez-proteam-black-2024,look-785-huez-r38d-interference-red-mat-glossy-2024,look-785-huez-rs-chameleon-mat-glossy-2024,look-785-huez-shimano-105-di2-2024,look-785-huez-shimano-ultegra-di2-2024,look-785-huez-sram-rival-etap-axs-2024
[15] - https://www.lookcycle.com/cn-en/products/components/wheels/r38d?srsltid=AfmBOorOepjQLvzfrZ_mYfuhfmo3pvTKGdudxi0MP0vKSALIYeo7e2dL
[16] - https://bikerumor.com/review-look-785-huez-is-an-affordable-race-ready-climbers-road-bike/
[17] - https://www.thecyclisthouse.com/en/blogs/news/velo-look-795-785-765-comparatif?srsltid=AfmBOoqfl58pCJ4WEVIoe35t7BKzsdMyM3jS2dm4iFpHcfwLY8Ffd-Ax
