Look 795 Blade RS Review: Why This €7000 French Superbike Left Me Speechless

Ever seen a bike that makes you stop mid-conversation? 😍

The Look 795 Blade RS does exactly that. Even non-cyclists pause and mutter "now that's dead sexy." But here's the million-euro question: does this French beauty justify its €9,790 (approximately $11,000) price tag?

Let me cut to the chase — this isn't your weekend warrior bike.

At just 7.0kg with Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 and those gorgeous Corima MCC EVO 32 wheels, the 795 Blade RS packs some serious credentials. We're talking 10% more aerodynamic than its predecessor, 7% stiffer, and featuring that new carbon layup with 25% ultra-high modulus carbon. Pretty impressive on paper, right?

But here's what really caught my attention: Look didn't just build another pretty aero bike. They partnered with Team Cofidis to create something that actually works in the real world. That steep 74.5° seat tube angle? It plants you right over the pedals for maximum power transfer.

After putting this €7000 French masterpiece through its paces on everything from brutal climbs to high-speed descents, I've got some thoughts to share.

Ready to find out why this bike left me genuinely speechless? Let's roll! 🚀

Look 795 Blade RS: Specs, Build and First Impressions

_{Image Source: Cycling News}

Time to get our hands dirty with the nitty-gritty details! 🔧

Unboxing the Look 795 Blade RS feels like unwrapping a piece of French art — but this masterpiece is built to fly, not hang on a wall. The development story here isn't just marketing fluff; Look's engineers obsessed over every detail to boost aerodynamics, crank up stiffness, and fine-tune ride quality.

Frame and Fork: 25% Ultra High Modulus Carbon

Here's where things get interesting. Look didn't just slap some fancy carbon together and call it a day. They strategically placed 25% Ultra High Modulus carbon fibers throughout the frame [1] — think of it as the bike's secret weapon for that 7% stiffness boost and 10% aero improvement over the previous model [1].

The numbers? Look claims 890g for a small frame [1], though real-world measurements showed 940g [3]. The fork adds another 435g [1]. Not the lightest frame out there, but there's method to this madness.

What really caught my eye was how they redesigned key areas — seatstays, bottle cage positions, seat tube, seat post clamp, and fork [2]. Every tube section serves a purpose: slice through air while keeping handling sharp and predictable.

Cockpit and Integration: Modular Aero Design

Thank goodness Look didn't fall into the "integrated everything" trap! 🙌

While many brands create beautiful cockpits that become nightmares when you need a different stem length, Look kept things practical. The 795 Blade RS rocks a fully carbon setup with separate bar and stem components [2]. Smart move — you get aero benefits without the headaches.

The stem weighs about 140g [9] and comes in multiple lengths from 80mm to 130mm [8], paired with width-adjustable aero carbon handlebars. Want to dial in your fit? No problem. Need to swap components? Easy peasy.

Groupset and Wheels: Shimano Di2 and Corima EVO

My test bike came loaded with Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 12-speed electronic shifting [6] — those crisp gear changes across the 11-34T cassette never get old. The 52/36 chainring combo hits that sweet spot for both grunt work on climbs and spinning out on flats.

But let's talk about those wheels — the Corima 47mm WS EVO wheels [9] are proper eye candy with serious performance chops. Wrapped in Continental GP 5000 tires, they add a noticeable punch to the bike's responsiveness and speed. These aren't just pretty faces.

Weight and Sizes: 7.0kg Claimed for Medium

Look claims 7.0kg for a medium-sized build with Dura-Ace Di2, power meter pedals, bottle cages, and Corima wheels [2]. Reality check: actual measurements from multiple sources suggest closer to 7.4kg [7].

Not gonna lie — that's a bit disappointing when you're dropping serious cash.

The bike comes in five sizes from XS to XL with thoughtfully scaled geometry, including properly sized crank lengths across the range [8]. Look's attention to fit details shines through — the frame accommodates different rider positions through multiple stem sizes, handlebar widths, and seatpost adjustments that offer seat tube angles from 71.8° to 78.4° [8].

Bottom line: This isn't just a pretty bike with fancy specs. It's a carefully engineered machine designed to make you faster. But will it live up to the hype on the road? Let's find out! 🚴♂️

Geometry and Fit: Who Is This Bike For?

_{Image Source: Look Cycle}

One look at the 795 Blade RS and you know this bike means business. The aggressive stance screams "race me" — but don't worry, Look built in enough adjustability to work with different rider types.

Here's the deal: this bike doesn't apologize for its competitive roots, but it's not as unforgiving as you might think.

Stack and Reach: The Numbers That Actually Matter

Forget traditional sizing for a second. Stack and reach measurements tell the real story about how this bike will fit you. Stack measures 573.2mm [8] with a 401.2mm reach [8] on the large — creating that low, stretched-out position that serious cyclists love.

Put it this way: you're getting similar geometry to bikes like the Trek Madone SLR 9 (stack: 581mm) and Cannondale SystemSix (stack: 580mm) [9]. The medium drops to 549.2mm stack and 391.2mm reach [8] — that's 24mm lower and 10mm shorter than the large.

What does this mean for you? Aerodynamic efficiency comes first, comfort comes second.

Who Should (and Shouldn't) Consider This Bike

Look designed the 795 Blade RS for speed-obsessed riders, plain and simple. That steep 74.5° seat tube angle [8] plants you forward over the pedals — perfect for power transfer during hard efforts and stability at high speeds [8].

This bike is for you if:

• You race or ride fast group rides regularly

• Aerodynamics matter more than upright comfort

• You can handle an aggressive riding position

Think twice if:

• You prefer leisurely, upright riding

• Long-distance comfort is your top priority

• You're new to drop bar bikes

The good news? The seatpost design offers seat angles from 71.8° to 78.4° [9], so you can dial in anything from traditional road positions to time-trial setups on the same frame.

Size Chart and Cockpit Flexibility

Look offers five sizes covering riders from under 166cm to over 185cm [8]:

• XS: Under 166cm (65")

• S: 164-173cm (65-68")

• M: 171-180cm (67-71")

• L: 178-187cm (70-74")

• XL: Over 185cm (73") [10]

Here's where Look got clever: instead of a fully integrated cockpit nightmare, they used a modular system. The "clever handlebar and stem combo" [11] lets you swap stem lengths (80mm to 130mm) or handlebar widths without ruining the bike's sleek looks or aero performance.

Why this matters: You can fine-tune your fit without the usual headaches that come with integrated cockpits. Pretty smart thinking from the French engineers.

Bottom line: this bike rewards riders who prioritize speed and can handle an aggressive position. If that's your style, the 795 Blade RS offers enough adjustability to get the fit just right.

Ride Quality and Performance on the Road

_{Image Source: Road Bike Action}

Time for the real test. Specs and geometry charts are nice, but how does this French speed machine actually ride when you point it at some serious roads?

Spoiler alert: it's got some serious attitude.

Climbing: Stiffness Over Lightness

Here's the thing about the 795 Blade RS on climbs — it doesn't mess around. While other bikes might try to win you over with featherweight frames, this one takes a different approach. That 25% Ultra High Modulus carbon creates a 7% stiffer platform [12] that turns every pedal stroke into pure forward drive.

I'll be honest — I nearly broke some personal records on my usual test climbs. Actually did set new PRs on a couple of segments [13]. Pretty surprising for a bike that's not trying to be a climbing specialist.

Sure, at 7.0kg claimed weight [5], it's not going to float up mountains like some of the ultra-light competition. But here's what caught me off guard: that overbuilt bottom bracket junction creates such direct power transfer to the chainstay [12] that the bike feels way lighter than the numbers suggest when you're grinding up steep stuff.

Descending and Cornering Stability

Point this thing downhill and something magical happens.

The geometry — with its 73° head tube angle, 59.3mm trail, and 1,004mm wheelbase [12] — creates a bike that's absolutely planted at speed. No twitchy nonsense here. The cornering feels sharp and precise without ever getting sketchy [13].

I found myself taking corners faster than usual, leaning deeper into turns with complete confidence [14]. Look's engineers clearly prioritized stability over razor-sharp handling, and honestly? It's the right call for a bike like this.

Comfort vs. Responsiveness

Let's talk about the elephant in the room — comfort.

The 795 Blade RS makes zero apologies for being a firm ride. When the road surface gets nasty, you'll feel it [12]. But here's the weird thing: even on rougher stretches at high speed, it never feels harsh or bone-jarring. The frame stays composed and planted [13].

Look worked with the Cofidis pro team to dial in this balance between vibration absorption and razor-sharp responsiveness [14]. They've created something that's clearly built for racing efficiency first, comfort second — but it's still totally rideable for longer adventures.

Handling in Real-World Conditions

Day-to-day riding reveals this bike's true character. From a dead stop? Yeah, it feels a bit sluggish. But get it rolling and wow — the acceleration out of corners is seriously impressive [15].

Where this bike really shines is in headwinds and on flat stretches [15]. That slippery aero profile isn't just marketing speak — you genuinely feel like you're cheating the wind. Less effort, more speed. Simple as that.

All that wind tunnel testing and track cycling expertise shows [5]. The bike slices through air like it's got a grudge against drag, yet stays completely stable in crosswinds. That's not just lab data — that's real-world performance you can actually feel every time you ride.

Look Blade 795 RS Price and Value Analysis

_{Image Source: Pez Cycling News}

Let's talk money. Because, honestly, the Look 795 Blade RS asks for some serious cash.

Deep breath — we're looking at €7,000 to €9,790 (about £8,240) depending on your build choice. That's mortgage payment territory for many of us. So before you start calculating how many dinners out you'll skip, let's break down what you actually get for this investment.

Build Options and Pricing Tiers

Look offers the 795 Blade RS across five frame sizes (XS through XL) with different component packages. The frameset alone costs €2,999, which includes Look's proprietary Aeropost seatpost and ADS stem [4].

Here's how the builds break down:

Entry-level builds feature Shimano Ultegra with Mavic Ksyrium Black UST wheels, while top-tier builds pack either SRAM RED eTAP AXS or Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 paired with those premium Corima 47mm WS EVO carbon wheels [4] [12]. All builds come with the San Marco Short Fit Dynamic saddle and Look's proprietary cockpit components [4].

The difference? Mainly groupsets and wheels. But that difference can be substantial in both performance and price.

How Does It Stack Up Against the Competition?

Here's some good news: the 795 Blade RS isn't the most expensive kid on the block. One reviewer gave it a 9/10 for value, noting that "you'll pay about the same retail price to build it yourself, vs buy it built, and those numbers are a bit less than comparable bikes" [3].

The Pro Team version costs under €10,000, which means it's "certainly not among the most inaccessible in the high-end bike market" [16]. When you compare it to similar offerings from Specialized, Trek, and Pinarello, the French engineering and wind tunnel-developed aerodynamics might actually offer better bang for your buck.

Is It Worth the €7000+ Price Tag?

The honest answer? It depends on what you're after.

If you're chasing race-level performance, the 795 Blade RS delivers real benefits: exceptional aerodynamics, razor-sharp handling, and that cutting-edge carbon tech with 25% Ultra High Modulus fibers. These aren't just marketing claims — they translate to tangible performance on the road.

Many owners customize their rides further — switching to tubeless with wider tires (700×28 or larger), swapping to oval chainrings, or tweaking gearing ratios [13]. The bike's design accommodates these upgrades beautifully.

Bottom line: if you compete regularly or ride at high intensities where every watt matters, the 795 Blade RS justifies its premium price through performance advantages that cheaper bikes simply can't match. But if you're a casual weekend rider? You might want to consider whether all that performance will actually enhance your riding experience.

The price stings, no doubt. But sometimes the best things in life come with a price tag that makes you pause... and then smile every time you clip in.

Conclusion

So here we are — after countless miles on this French beauty, what's the verdict?

The Look 795 Blade RS genuinely impressed me. Not just because it looks stunning (though it absolutely does), but because it delivers on every promise Look made about this bike.

What struck me most? The way this machine transforms your riding. Sure, it's not the lightest bike out there, but that exceptional stiffness means every watt you put down goes straight into forward motion. No energy wasted, no flex, just pure efficiency.

Look's partnership with Team Cofidis really shows. This isn't some marketing gimmick — it's a bike that works beautifully across varied terrain while staying planted even when you're pushing serious speeds.

Here's what sets it apart: that modular cockpit system. While other manufacturers lock you into their integrated setups (good luck making adjustments!), Look gives you flexibility without sacrificing those sleek aero lines. Smart thinking.

The €7,000+ price tag definitely puts this in premium territory — no sugar-coating that. But stack it against similarly spec'd bikes from other big names? The 795 Blade RS holds its own and often delivers more bang for your buck. Plus, there's something special about that French engineering heritage you simply can't get elsewhere.

Bottom line: If you're a serious cyclist who demands race-level performance, the Look 795 Blade RS delivers exceptional value. Weekend warriors might find the aggressive geometry and firm ride a bit much for casual spins, but competitive riders will love how this bike elevates their game on every type of terrain.

That "dead sexy" look? Just the icing on the cake of what's fundamentally an outstanding performance machine. 🎉

Happy riding!

FAQs

Q1. What makes the Look 795 Blade RS stand out from other high-end road bikes? The Look 795 Blade RS distinguishes itself with its advanced carbon construction, featuring 25% Ultra High Modulus carbon fibers, resulting in a frame that's 7% stiffer and 10% more aerodynamic than its predecessor. It also offers a modular cockpit system for easy customization without compromising aerodynamics.

Q2. How does the Look 795 Blade RS perform on climbs? The 795 Blade RS excels on climbs due to its exceptional stiffness and power transfer. While not the lightest in its category, the bike's rigid frame efficiently converts rider power into forward momentum, making it particularly effective on shorter, punchier ascents.

Q3. Is the Look 795 Blade RS comfortable for long rides? The 795 Blade RS prioritizes performance over comfort. While it offers a firm ride, especially on rough roads, it remains composed and planted at high speeds. The bike is designed for racing efficiency rather than plushness but is still suitable for longer outings.

Q4. What size options are available for the Look 795 Blade RS? The Look 795 Blade RS comes in five sizes ranging from XS to XL, accommodating riders from under 166cm to over 185cm tall. The bike's modular cockpit system also allows for fine-tuning the fit with various stem lengths and handlebar widths.

Q5. How does the Look 795 Blade RS compare in price to other high-end aero bikes? The Look 795 Blade RS is competitively priced within the high-end aero bike market. With prices ranging from approximately €7,000 for base models to €9,790 for premium builds, it offers comparable or superior performance to similarly equipped bikes from other manufacturers, potentially providing better value due to its unique French engineering and wind tunnel-developed aerodynamics.

References

[1] - https://bikerumor.com/look-795-blade-rs-796-monoblade-rs-race-bikes-get-aero-upgrades/
[2] - https://capovelo.com/look-debuts-new-795-blade-rs-and-796-monoblade-rs-road-and-time-trial-bikes/
[3] - https://www.cyclingnews.com/reviews/look-795-blade-rs-review-the-climbers-aero-bike/
[4] - https://795bladers.lookcycle.com/en
[5] - https://www.twohubs.com/Product/look-cycles/look-795-blade-rs-disk-frameset/1849320?srsltid=AfmBOorTkqmsZnmJwQX-AN3lMxAdGOutkqKki7WQTKoV4WD6x0_92bcx
[6] - https://www.biketiresdirect.com/product/look-795-blade-rs-ltd-iconic-road-bike?v=sm00ltd&srsltid=AfmBOoqexdjOG9ndP1qPEWzoqoQ9N_uDwLGUlkPMYq9wg2V-JJPnLtsg
[7] - https://weightweenies.starbike.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=173904&start=60
[8] - https://racycles.com/products/look-795-blade-rs-dura-ace-bike-iconic?srsltid=AfmBOooWMBlhce-PTXzFL4iKnZumx8CscfjUH07iiS1VYKpFvgtkVNAh
[9] - https://www.lookcycle.com/it-en/products/bikes/road-bikes/aero/795-blade-rs-gray-nardo-glossy?srsltid=AfmBOoqqitvvcXE0XAlyZiA1wn-FPY6c5JSHETApsr_dM4JCgcoABwwh
[10] - https://www.bicycling.com/bikes-gear/a23508474/look-blade-795-rs-review/
[11] - https://revolutionbikeshop.com/product_images/uploaded_images/2024-look-795-blade-rs-frameset-new-sizeguide-2024.pdf
[12] - https://www.lookcycle.com/bo-en/795-blade-rs?srsltid=AfmBOorxzNdsuwKnWyM9uMO8gJNccO6850QPBF6dmrwwtYadUZjtHulT
[13] - https://www.cyclist.co.uk/reviews/look-795-blade-rs-road-bike-review
[14] - https://pezcyclingnews.com/technspec/look-795-blade-rs-review-proteam-white-dead-sexy/
[15] - https://www.lookcycle.com/bo-en/795-blade-rs?srsltid=AfmBOopsDlU9nsebTkRuPo_DOsDA8r1OT3qWhSfEC6QVk_5FkyNYEpDg
[16] - https://www.lookcycle.com/bo-en/795-blade-rs?srsltid=AfmBOorS96Ex3rxQmb29TuMqd0h8VxdKzXtWfYiEI09gJ6rUJi_jj7_p
[17] - https://granfondo-cycling.com/look-795-blade-rs-disk-2020-review/
[18] - https://www.cyclingnews.com/reviews/look-795-blade-rs-disk-review/
[19] - https://www.thecyclisthouse.com/en/blogs/news/velo-look-795-785-765-comparatif?srsltid=AfmBOoqtEcJH-uKmWqpq_Fu0Opx1e0R9D-k0UDvHsqbNj9SbBV6vFi3O