asking for opinion on entry bike equipment purchases
I'm new to the sport of triathlon but signed up for a HIM and IM in 2013. I plan on buying the following 'entry level' equipment:
- tri bike: Cervelo P2 or Trek Speed Concept 7.0
- powertap pro hub wheelset
- aerodisc cover (wheelbuilder)
My comments / questions:
1- Per wheelbuilder the aerodisc cover is incompatible with the Trek Speed Concept bike. Trying to keep cost low which solution would you recommend?
a. Go with the P2, buy an entry level powertap pro hub wheel for training and use the aerodisc cover when racing.
b. Go with Trek Speed Concept ($200 cheaper than P2) and buy a nicer powertap pro hub wheel for both training and racing, just forget the aerodisc cover.
2- Does anyone have any experience shopping with Trek Bicycle Superstore or Art's Cyclery? Initially I was looking at buying a used tri bike but those sites have great prices and free shipping:
. 2012 P2 for $2,200 and $2,250,
. 2012 Trek SC 7.0 for $2,000
3- Power options... I looked at the different solutions on the market but decided to go with the powertap pro hub ($900 - cheapest). Anyone recommending another solution in the same price range?
Comments
I just bought my first tri bike three weeks ago. I am blessed to have a great tri store here that helped direct me. They did a general bike fit on their bike fitting gear thingy before even suggesting bikes. Then based on those numbers they researched the bikes that theoretically should fit without having to adjust the bike beyond the its capabilities. I was given 4 or 5 possible options. I then did a test ride on (sometimes 2 or 3) on each of the bikes, they all felt different and ended up with a bike I love. Turns out a couple of the bikes I had been researching (including the speed concept) would not have been a good fit for me just based on the numbers alone. I think the time invested in the early fit and test rides are super important given the amount of time/money you will be spending. I then had a full fit done on the bike to get it just right for me. (FYI - I ended up with a Kestel Airfoil, a bike not even on my radar screen)
Good luck with your search!
Jennifer
Stephane,
I can't speak to the bike but I'm a Powertap dealer through Wheelbuilder. Email me at rich@endurancenation.us and I can get you a quote.
x2 on what Jennifer said. Don't let your personal "favorites" necessarily drive your decisoin on a bike, make an educated decision on what will actually fit YOU best. Don't throw a bunch of stem and seat posts to MAKE it fit you! I know that Todd @ TTbikefit (EN partner) does a pre-fit service, that takes your measurements and lets you know what the suitable frames for you are. Don't let some local yocal at your bike shop sell you a frame that might not be the best fit for you. My $.02.