Complete Kestrel Talon Tri Package

For a beginner, that is a solid package, IMHO.  Full carbon bike with 105 group.  All the equipment you need in a convenient package.  You could probably find all the parts one at a time for less, but that would be a big PITA.

Also, the Talon can be converted to a road bike if you do not stay with triathlon.

I was considering this package as well, but decided against it because:

- I decided a roadbike would be better to start of with than a tri-bike

- The Kestrel might be a bit too small for me

- I have not done a tri-yet and I am looking at doing sprint-tris (therefore don't need a wetsuit)

- Like shopping at my LBS and like Cannondale's

- Decided I like the SRAM Rival better than the 105

It's a decent deal if you want all those things at once.  Kestrel makes some outstanding bikes, although the Talon is a little long in the tooth.  Also important is that it has a road bike geometry- which may not fit well in the tri position for longer torsoed people.  So- do not get this until you've been measured up and have any idea if this bike even fits.  It wouldn't fit me

Bonktown is offering currently a:

Focus Culebro Tria 1.0 Bike

for 1,050

I think that might be better tri-starting bike (given the price).

Keep in mind:

Nothing is free in life

Thous beeing said, if you don't need all the other stuff in the package, don't buy it.

Determine how much you want to spend and go to your LBS to find what is in your price range

bikes direct had the Talon 105 for $1,400 if you are looking for the bike only.

then look for a purely Tri bike.  the Talon isn't it.  Too bad the Cervelo deal isn't around any more, as a P2 for $1800 was outstanding.

It's settled then...

-I don't need all the lagniappe

-I need a more tri specific bike

The deal is off, thank guys.