General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo Rss Feed  
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2008-02-20 9:50 AM

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Missoula
Subject: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo
Hello, this is my first post on Beginner Triathlete. I am purchasing my first tri bike and hoping for some insight and opinons. I have asked this question on a few other forums as well, so apologies if you have already seen it, but I want to make sure I can get as many opinions as possible.

In my price range I have the following choices:

Giant Trinity A2- $1500, Sora group, Composite Frame? (anyone that can tell me what this frame is made of would help alot)

Felt S32- $1450, Ultegra/105/Dura Ace mix, Aluminum

Quintana Roo Kilo- $1600, Ultegra/Dura Ace Mix, Aluminum

Cervelo P2 SL- $1650, Ultegra, though I might splurge another $200 to go to the Dura Ace, because I hate yellow.

I have a Emery's Bicycles (owned by Bret Emery) near me that sells all these different brands along with Kestrel, Guru, and Trek, though those seemed out of my price range expect for the Equinox 5 which looked like a converted road bike.

My number one criteria is obviously fit. I will buy the bike that best fits me. Does anyone have an input past the fitting? Does one bike or another jump out and say, "if two of these fit you, buy this one cause......!". I am really not concerned with the difference between $1450-$1800. All I want is a bike that I look at and I want to ride the hell out of it and that is reliable, and a good value. What I am really looking for is other determining factors of why I should but one bike over the other if more than one fits me.


Thank you very much for any help,

Newbie5317


2008-02-20 10:02 AM
in reply to: #1223262

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Elite
2527
200050025
Armpit of Ontario
Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo

Not sure I can add anything new if you've already asked on other forums, but here's my take:

Giant's composite frame means carbon fiber. That in and of itself doesn't mean better than aluminum, but what stands out about the trinity is the poor component grouping - Sora is the lowest end Shimano groupset (the line starting with Sora, then Tiagra, 105, Ultegra, then top-of-the-line Dura Ace). The difference between the cost of a complete groupset between Sora to Dura Ace is many hundreds of dollars. The common feeling is that race-quality starts at 105 and goes up from there.

The Felt, QR and Cervelo are fairly evenly-spec'd, esp at this price range, look for minimum 105 components and higher, paying closer attention to higher level on the derailers. A mixed grouping is fine, as long as the better components are where you will get the biggest bang for your buck, usually in the STI shifters and derailers. 

You said it best: get what fits best and feels best...and what looks the fastest, because, at least while it's still new to you, it will be. 

Oh, and get the Cervelo Ultegra, because yellow bikes are fastest.



Edited by sty 2008-02-20 10:08 AM
2008-02-20 10:05 AM
in reply to: #1223262

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Expert
696
500100252525
Sugar Hill, GA
Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo

I can't help compare the bikes but I can tell you that I did a fair amount of reading and decided that, provided it was a good fit, I'd get the Cervelo P2SL Dura Ace.

When I bought the bike last month I told them that fit was most important and they told me that it is very rare that they can't fit someone to the cervelo. 

I have about 150 miles on the bike now, it is extremely comfortable, rides great, and I have no complaints.  this is my first road bike since my 10 speed in high school and I'm already more comfortable in the aero position than I am out of it.

so, if it helps, the Cervelo gets two thumbs up from a newbie.

2008-02-20 10:05 AM
in reply to: #1223262

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Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo
I can't help too much besides tell you that fit is indeed the most important consideration. I looked at several of the bikes you mentioned. For me, it came down to the LBS. The one that carried the Felt was extremely nice and knowledgable. They ordered and fit me, etc.. plus offered to make adjustments as needed. They also have a good riding group. I felt like I was getting more than just a bike from them, so I went that way. A Felt S32. I love it.
2008-02-20 10:09 AM
in reply to: #1223262

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Expert
1006
1000
Kansas City, MO
Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo
look at a Specialized Transition Multisport or Elite.......  
2008-02-20 10:14 AM
in reply to: #1223299

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Cycling Guru
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Fulton, MD
Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo
Considering the only real difference between the "Dura Ace" equipped P2 and the cheaper model is the rear derailleur (and pretty much nothing else actually changing to Dura Ace), it is a waste to spend $200 to upgrade to that.  You still get generic/budget parts for the rest of the bike (cranks, hubs, brakes, etc.).


2008-02-20 10:22 AM
in reply to: #1223262

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158
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Missoula
Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo
By Far the biggest response has been Cervelo. Can anyone tell me why? I know they are the hot bike right now, but is there any reason in particular why? I am hoping to either go with the Kilo or the P2SL, with fit being the ONLY determining factor, but as far as components and value goes, those two look like the most logical out of all the bikes. Why is Cervelo so popular?
2008-02-20 10:25 AM
in reply to: #1223346

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Cycling Guru
15134
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Fulton, MD
Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo

Newbie5317 - 2008-02-20 11:22 AM I know they are the hot bike right now

That about sums it up ...... no other real reason ....... if it was 5 years ago the answer would have been Trek for the same exact reason.

2008-02-20 10:30 AM
in reply to: #1223262

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Expert
1006
1000
Kansas City, MO
Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo

man not even a thought on the Specialized???

FWIW 2007 Kona Ironman World Champion Chris McCormick

 





(Specialized.jpg)



Attachments
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Specialized.jpg (76KB - 20 downloads)
2008-02-20 10:32 AM
in reply to: #1223308

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Regular
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252525
Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo
Selachophobia - 2008-02-20 9:09 AM

look at a Specialized Transition Multisport or Elite.......  


X2
I like my Specialized Transition Comp
Paid $1,100 for it 18 months ago. Ultegra/105 mix.
Not sure what the current pricing is, though.
2008-02-20 10:35 AM
in reply to: #1223262

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Master
1553
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Elm Grove
Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo

Newbie, which emery's do you live by?  Menomonee Falls, or Tosa.  There is a great group of people on here from the MIL area.

 

HighJack off

 

P.S.  I have a Cervelo and love it.



2008-02-20 10:45 AM
in reply to: #1223262

Veteran
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Missoula
Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo
I actually live in Sheboygan. I will be going to the Lisbon St. Emerys. They ahve just been awesome. They were nicer on the phone than every shop in my area was in person. Sheboygan has decent shops, but nothing I have seen that has heavy Triathlon knowledge.


Looks like the specialized is out of my price range at $1900. It's close, but I am trying real hard to stay closer to $1500 than $2000. At $2000 and aluminum, I really expect to have Dura Ace instead of 105. Plus, My specialized shop leaves alot to be desired.

I don't mind buying the hot bike as long as it performs. From what I have read, Cervelo is definately living up to their hype. Plus, they are very competetive in terms of bang for the buck.

The biggest surpise is actually lack of support for the Kilo. It seems everyone says Cervelo or Felt or throws in a sentimental favorite. I haven't got one response saying QR. Considering it is in my top two based on component value (disclaimer: FIT BEING THE MOST IMPORTANT), I am surpirsed by the lack of support. Any reason, or is QR just like the old stand by, and not the newest hottest thing?
2008-02-20 11:05 AM
in reply to: #1223262

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Master
1795
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Boynton Beach, FL
Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo
Purchased the P2SL a few weeks ago and picked up for $1,500 with Ultegra package. Yes, yellow was not my first choice, but figure great to see it during transitions (and like someone mentioned, it just looks faster.

I felt that this bike was best overall value and although only 5-6 rides under my belt, I have been very pleased with ride and comfort. One thing that was different with Cervelo is the frame ran larger than others. Meaning, I was fitted with 58 on other bikes and a 56 on Cervelo? Anyway, it is very comfortable fit so give credit to LBS for recomendation.

Look here: www.transition-area.com. for Cervelo pricing.
2008-02-20 12:19 PM
in reply to: #1223262

Veteran
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South Florida
Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo
Another vote for the Transition Comp E5 frame. Awesome ride for the money.
2008-02-20 12:53 PM
in reply to: #1223262

Veteran
158
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Missoula
Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo
ok, I'll bite. What makes the Specialized frame so good that I should dish out $400 more and get 105 components versus getting Ultegra or Dura Ace? Essentially, if I upgraded the components, I would be paying at least $2200 (1900 for the bike plus $300 for components) just to upgrade to Ultegra. What makes the Specialized bike so great that I should spend another $600?
2008-02-20 12:54 PM
in reply to: #1223262

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Expert
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FL
Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo

If the Giant is Sora at that price, definately eliminate that one.  At over 1k, you definately should be getting at least 105 or a mix 105 and up.

 



2008-02-20 12:55 PM
in reply to: #1223818

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Expert
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Kansas City, MO
Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo

Newbie5317 - 2008-02-20 12:53 PM ok, I'll bite. What makes the Specialized frame so good that I should dish out $400 more and get 105 components versus getting Ultegra or Dura Ace? Essentially, if I upgraded the components, I would be paying at least $2200 (1900 for the bike plus $300 for components) just to upgrade to Ultegra. What makes the Specialized bike so great that I should spend another $600?

duh, your guaranteed to win ironman kona.....   

2008-02-20 1:04 PM
in reply to: #1223825

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Sensei
Sin City
Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo

I like the cervello - but for me it has to do with a fit issue.  I am very tall and the cervello is one of the few bikes that have a long enough top tube length to fit me (if I have the seat in the rearward position).

But I also really like Cervello A LOT.

If money was no object - I would get the Guru Chrono because it is custome built frame.  If I could fit on it - the Specialized S-works Transition.

 

2008-02-20 1:07 PM
in reply to: #1223262

Veteran
158
1002525
Missoula
Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo
Well, that is a good reason. Unfortunately, the extra money I would spend on the bike would leave me no money to fly to Kona. Looks like the over priced and under speced specialized is going to have to wait.
2008-02-20 1:08 PM
in reply to: #1223862

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Expert
1006
1000
Kansas City, MO
Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo

Newbie5317 - 2008-02-20 1:07 PM Well, that is a good reason. Unfortunately, the extra money I would spend on the bike would leave me no money to fly to Kona. Looks like the over priced and under speced specialized is going to have to wait.

its only money.....  

2008-02-20 1:11 PM
in reply to: #1223262

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Cycling Guru
15134
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Fulton, MD
Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo
People like the Transition because ot is new and cool looking ..... but it merely ripped off both the P3C and the Felt B2/DA for its design by combining the traits from both (curved and flared rear wheel cutout, rear brake mounted low, etc.). Tongue out


2008-02-20 1:14 PM
in reply to: #1223405

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Pro
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Simpsonville, SC
Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo
Newbie5317 - 2008-02-20 11:45 AM

I actually live in Sheboygan. I will be going to the Lisbon St. Emerys. They ahve just been awesome. They were nicer on the phone than every shop in my area was in person. Sheboygan has decent shops, but nothing I have seen that has heavy Triathlon knowledge.


Looks like the specialized is out of my price range at $1900. It's close, but I am trying real hard to stay closer to $1500 than $2000. At $2000 and aluminum, I really expect to have Dura Ace instead of 105. Plus, My specialized shop leaves alot to be desired.

I don't mind buying the hot bike as long as it performs. From what I have read, Cervelo is definately living up to their hype. Plus, they are very competetive in terms of bang for the buck.

The biggest surpise is actually lack of support for the Kilo. It seems everyone says Cervelo or Felt or throws in a sentimental favorite. I haven't got one response saying QR. Considering it is in my top two based on component value (disclaimer: FIT BEING THE MOST IMPORTANT), I am surpirsed by the lack of support. Any reason, or is QR just like the old stand by, and not the newest hottest thing?


This was my experience with QR vs. Cervelo and why I chose the Cervelo. Tried a Caliente and a P2C. The QR felt "soft" and had more "play" in the bottom bracket area. Made me nervous, especially in aero. Tried the P2C and felt the bike "squirt" with every pedal stroke. Also felt more "stiff" in the bottom bracket. Made me feel more confident. So, of course, I chose the bike that felt better for me!

If you have a long torso, give the Felt a chance. They have long top tubes. At least my road bike does. Couldn't get a comfy fit on a Felt tri bike in my price range.

Happy shopping!

Pam
2008-02-20 1:22 PM
in reply to: #1223881

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Expert
1006
1000
Kansas City, MO
Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo

Daremo - 2008-02-20 1:11 PM People like the Transition because ot is new and cool looking ..... but it merely ripped off both the P3C and the Felt B2/DA for its design by combining the traits from both (curved and flared rear wheel cutout, rear brake mounted low, etc.). Tongue out

dang rick...   dont hate...  

2008-02-20 1:23 PM
in reply to: #1223262

Member
81
252525
Boulder(soul)/Cincinnati(body)
Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo

I love my Specialized Transition Comp, if you buy last year's model you can get a much better price. Also, you could get sized on a bike at an LBS and find it for less at a less local bike shop. I know University Bikes in Boulder (where I bought mine) had a very hard time moving their 2006's and I got the $1600 2006 model (Still new) for 1100 this past May. I believe they still have some in stock. I can't recommend them highly enough and I love the bike. For the money you'd save you can upgrade pretty much anything you want (why bother then? Because it's all about the FIT).

Just my $.02

2008-02-20 1:25 PM
in reply to: #1223923

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Cycling Guru
15134
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Fulton, MD
Subject: RE: Giant vs Felt vs QR vs Cervelo
Don't forget that I had an '05 Transition Comp.  So I'm not anti-Specialized.  The Felt is just faster.
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