First tri bike decision: 2010 Felt B14, or 2012 Felt B12

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2012-03-11 7:19 PM

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Subject: First tri bike decision: 2010 Felt B14, or 2012 Felt B12
I have a budget around $3000 and I can get a new 2010 B14 for around 2k and the 2012 b12 goes for about 3k. I was thinking about the b14, then I would have about a grand to put toward some race wheels (Williams ws58, or 85s). Any help or comments would be greatly appreciated.


2012-03-12 12:34 PM
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Subject: RE: First tri bike decision: 2010 Felt B14, or 2012 Felt B12

on one hand, a 2010 B14 is pretty much a 2012 B16.  i.e. Ultegra, but with a better cockpit.

Hard to justify an extra grand just for upgrading to DA derailleurs. But, then again, bikes are not rational decisions.

Isn't there a 2011 B12 you can throw in the mix for $2400 just to confuse the issue further?

2012-03-12 12:51 PM
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Subject: RE: First tri bike decision: 2010 Felt B14, or 2012 Felt B12

If it was me, I would be getting the new 2012.

I always want the latest and greatest and I would start there.  Wheels would come at a later time.  If you wanted to save money buy a wheelcover for the TTR's and you are good to go.

2012-03-12 3:30 PM
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Subject: RE: First tri bike decision: 2010 Felt B14, or 2012 Felt B12
Thanks guys,  It's a hard choice, maybe a DA4, I just don't know.  Going to a good shop later this week to get some more hands on.
2012-03-13 12:38 PM
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Subject: RE: First tri bike decision: 2010 Felt B14, or 2012 Felt B12
Get the cheaper one and spend the extra $$ on other goodies.  The "latest and greatest" gets you nothing that will make you faster.  Buy an aero helmet, fast front wheel, cover for rear, tri shoes, clipless pedals, etc.  Those will make you faster.
2012-03-13 1:18 PM
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Subject: RE: First tri bike decision: 2010 Felt B14, or 2012 Felt B12

adrian. - 2012-03-13 10:38 AM Get the cheaper one and spend the extra $$ on other goodies.  The "latest and greatest" gets you nothing that will make you faster.  Buy an aero helmet, fast front wheel, cover for rear, tri shoes, clipless pedals, etc.  Those will make you faster.

 

true and pragmatic.  Whatever you get- make sure it's something you love.  Something you'll look at in the garage, pine to ride, be proud to own, etc.  that's what will help it be a motivational tool and get you out riding more often....which will turn into speed.

2012-03-13 4:55 PM
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Subject: RE: First tri bike decision: 2010 Felt B14, or 2012 Felt B12

The B12 has the aluminum Bayonet cockpit. It makes adjustments easy. Besides the DuraAce derailleurs it has the new Vision Metron shifters. They're pretty darn good. The 2011 B12 had SRAM and it has problems shifting to the big chain ring. The SRAM Red FD wasn't up to the task...at least the titanium wasn't. 

 

+1 on the 2012 B16. Its got a better paint scheme this year and is the best value tri bike. I have the 2012 B12 and am glad I pulled the trigger on it.

If you can scrape together another 1k you could get the D4 and have the latest/greatest platform. It's speced like the B12. The extra 1K buys you the D4 frame.....

Which ever one you pull the trigger on is a good bike. Enjoy

2012-03-14 5:51 AM
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Subject: RE: First tri bike decision: 2010 Felt B14, or 2012 Felt B12
Thanks guys, you all have been a big help. I'll let you know what I get.
2012-03-15 3:27 PM
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Subject: RE: First tri bike decision: 2010 Felt B14, or 2012 Felt B12
Well, I ended up getting the B14. They gave me a good price, and I figure I can upgrade the components a little at a time. I love the look, great paint and coloring.
2012-03-15 4:50 PM
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Subject: RE: First tri bike decision: 2010 Felt B14, or 2012 Felt B12
Good choice. I have the B14 and love it. I have only changed out the crank and waiting for some new wheels to arrive. Enjoy, you won't be disappointed.
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