Although the range of Cervelo bikes looks pretty daunting, all bikes fulfill a special purpose, so it makes it pretty easy to choose.
Here's how:
1. Do you want a Road bike, TT/Tri bike or Track bike?
Road: Goto Q2.
TT/Tri: Goto Q4.
Track: Choose a P3C Track
2. Are you concerned with absolute lightness of the bike first?
If you answer yes, choose an R3 series bike
The R3 is very light, the R3SL even lighter, both are amazingly stiff bikes.
The new RS has even better lateral stiffness.
3. More concerned about aero, but still need a road bike?
S3, S2 and S1 are all suberb aero road bikes with increasing levels of stiffness up to the S3.
4. Are you looking for the absolute aerodynamic best for time trial or triathlon?
If yes, choose a P3C.
Lower budget, but still great aero? Choose P2C or P2 SL.
Easy!