Test of the Adris Le Performance S2: the route to your measure

Adris, a Breton brand reconnaked for its excellent value for money, unveils an evolution of its Le Performance model, testLate 2023. Named the Performance S2, this bike, here equipped with the Shimano 105 Di2 12-speed groupset and a pair of carbon wheels, embodies an ideal balance between performance, lightness, and accessibility. This mid-range model offers (almost) everything needed to support the progression of amateur cyclists, whether they aim for competitive or recreational riding. We put it to the test for you.

By Guillaume Judas – Photos: ©Sébastien Argentin

In the Adris range, the Performance S2 complements the Vitesse model, more rigid and aerodynamic, while taking inspiration from it for its architecture, with sharper lines than the first Performance testIt was launched several months ago. Less extreme than the Vitesse, it retains remarkable versatility, adapting to a variety of terrains and practices.

The Performance S2 stands out, like its predecessor, for its monobloc UHM (Ultra High Modulus) carbon frame, the result of a careful assembly of more than 800 carbon patches. This frame displays a weight of 880 g (size S) and a complete bike at 7,67 kg without pedals in this 105 Di2 version, despite a Shimano group reconnaked as relatively heavy. This design guarantees optimal rigidity, ideal for intense stresses. Its aerodynamic design, inspired by the Vitesse, incorporates a cockpit with fully internal wiring, reducing drag and optimizing energy efficiency to save precious watts.

The ergonomic cockpit offers a handlebar width adapted to the size of the bike (38 cm for an S frame), meeting modern aerodynamic standards, with a tapered shape at the bottom, like the Most handlebars on Pinarello bikes. Compared to the first Performance, the S2 adopts a more profiled seatpost, adjusted by a tightening screw moved under the horizontal tube. More aesthetic, this choice eliminates the rubber cover of the previous model, sometimes unstable when riding. The seat tube, hugging the rear wheel, and the front part of the bike, slightly more massive, optimize the penetration in the air.

A complete range with a competitive price-quality ratio

The Performance S2 comes in six versions, all based on the same frameset:

• Performance S2 Dura-Ace Di2: integrated cockpit, Mavic Cosmic SLR 45 wheels, 6,95 kg, €8 999
• Performance S2 Dura-Ace Di2: integrated cockpit, Mavic Cosmic SL 45 wheels, 7 kg, €6 999
• Performance S2 Ultegra Di2: integrated cockpit, IKONIK 40 wheels, 7,3 kg, €5 699
• Performance S2 105 Di2: integrated cockpit, IKONIK 40 wheels, 7,7 kg, €4 (our bike) test)
• Performance S2 105 Di2: classic cockpit, Mavic Ksyrium 30 Disc wheels, 8,1 kg, €3 899
• Performance S2 105: classic cockpit, Mavic Aksium Disc wheels, 8,4 kg, €2 999

Shimano 105 Di2: the accessible electronic revolution

The Shimano 105 Di2 12-speed groupset marks a significant step forward for cyclists accustomed to mechanical drivetrains.This electronic version offers precise, smooth and fast gear changes, almost rivaling the Dura-Ace and Ultegra Di2 groupsets. Disc braking is also top-notch.

However, The 105 Di2 has some limitations, including the absence of hidden buttons under the brake levers, present on the higher groupsets for functions such as gear changes or navigation on a compatible computer. Via the Shimano E-Tube application, however, it allows for customization, such as the adoption of synchronized or semi-synchronized gear changes, a notable advancement for all levels of practice.

The supply of developments remains limited, however, with only two combinations of trays (52-36 and 50-34) and cassettes (11-34 and 11-36). This limitation can hinder competitors or young cyclists, in a context where races require more varied gear ratios. With a 52-36 and an 11-34, the Performance S2 does its best, but optimization will be necessary for competitive practice.

In this version, the Performance S2 is equipped with IKONIK carbon wheels with 40 mm rims, guaranteeing versatility and dynamism. Less efficient than the Mavic Cosmic wheels of the Dura-Ace versions, they largely surpass the aluminum wheels of the entry-level models, offering balanced behavior and contained weight. The endurance-oriented Michelin Lithion tires, however, limit performance. Higher-end tires would improve comfort, responsiveness, and performance.

Versatility at the rendezvous

With its tapered frame, electronic transmission, disc brakes and carbon wheels, the Performance S2 105 Di2 combines modernity and versatility, to attract practitioners looking for an evolving machine.

Compared to the 2023 version, this model feels less airy, with an additional 800g and heavier, less flexible tires, which impact responsiveness when restarting or changing pace. However, it shines with its stability. The well-distributed rigidity eliminates any feeling of weakness, whether at the pilot's positiontage, bottom bracket, rear triangle or wheels. Downhill, the bike remains stable, with the 40mm wheels offering little crosswind resistance. In short, a reassuring, consistent machine, close to bikes equipped with high-end Shimano groupsets in terms of gear changes and braking.

Rigid, the Performance S2 supports progressive sprints with a maximum gear and remains solid when dancing on hills. The steering can feel heavy when pressed firmly on the hoods, however, and the Michelin Lithion tires lack dynamism. Overall, the weight, stiffness, and entry-level tires make the bike more energy-hungry than a high-end model like the 2023 Performance. These differences, related to a few hundred grams and the quality of the tires, have a notable impact, offset by a more affordable price.

This bike is ideal for those who are starting intensive riding or entering competition.Its healthy base opens up perspectives by adopting progressive improvements – high-end tires, lightweight inner tubes, adapted gears – to make it a more responsive and personalized machine.

Affordable excellence

With the Performance S2 Shimano 105 Di2, Adris has successfully evolved its iconic model, combining a lightweight and rigid UHM carbon frame, precise electronic transmission and a neat aerodynamic design. Versatile and accessible, this bike is aimed at both budding competitors and passionate amateurs., providing a solid foundation for intensive or recreational practice.

Despite being slightly overweight and having tires that could be improved, the Performance S2 stands out for its balance, stability and excellent value for money.By adding a few optimizations, such as more efficient tires or adapted gears, this Breton bike has everything to become an ideal companion, capable of meeting the ambitions of the most demanding riders while remaining affordable.

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