New Project (Page 2)

I'm sure that Shane will chime in here, too.  But I can say that the 735TT (which I built) actually has a deeper cutout, and you can actually get the wheel so close that it touches the frame.  I don't believe that you can do this with the 730, or at least not the model pictured above (not that it REALLY matters much).

I've been very happy with my frame so far.  The only way I would trade it is if I were to get a free or cheap high end CF frame.  I've done an IM distance ride and multiple HIM distances (training, not racing), as well as sprint and oly races.  I've done mega hill climbs, flat rides, and rolling hills.  It's been great for me under all conditions.  In fact, I tried to switch back to my road bike at the end of the season and only lasted two rides before I brought the tri bike back out.  The frame is well worth the money, as long as it fits.

My understanding is that you've got to get the wheel in at 1/8" or less in order to really reap the aerodynamic benefits of the rear wheel cutout, which would arguably be quite small anyway.  On a bike with horizontal dropouts, you risk having the wheel slip a bit under stress.  I'm sure that having the wheel rub the frame would more than negate any aero benefits of the cutout.  I personally run mine at about 1/4" for this reason.

Most rear wheel cutouts are either there to look pretty or to allow for the wheel to fit in smaller tri geometry frames.  I would argue that very few actually achieve measurable aerodynamic benefits.

Just finished mine:

http://www.beginnertriathlete.com/discussion/photos/show-album.asp?albumid=3864&photoid=24065

Nice build!

Welcome to the Leader club. 

Wow!  Nice builds guys...

Seriously considering a build.  runningfoo let me know that they're running a sale on the 735TT (thanks Dave).  Lots of questions, though...

Where did you guys get all the specs for compatible components?:
BB, headset, steerer tube diameter...front derailleur is braze on?

I'm about to press the 'checkout' button on the Leader website http://www.leaderbikestore.com/pd_ld_735tt.cfm  but wanted to get an idea first of what new parts I might need to buy.

Your help is much appreciated (as cold sweat drips off my brow )...

Thanks for the heads up.  I did notice that someone was selling a few on eBay.  I'll make sure and call. 

Also, thanks for all the additional info.  You'd think a company that's in the business of selling frames would give you that info right on the website...maybe I'm looking in the wrong place...

Shaweet!  Ordered the 2007 735TT 50cm (in black).  They were out of stock.  They called while I was on my commute home yesterday (yes, I did pull over to talk).  After some discussion and quite a few questions, they'll be sending the 2006 instead (in red) WITHOUT the slightly high cutout.  Ordered the Cane Creek IS6 while I was at it.  Auction bids are in for Ultegra cranks and BB, front and rear derailleur, and seatpost.  If I don't win those, Nashbar isn't that much more.  I've got most of the other parts I need, so I may be able to get through this project for $650 out of pocket.

I stopped by the LBS yesterday.  They can do the BB/crank install for $20.  They'll do the headset install for $10.  I'm seriously thinking about having them do the BB/crank install.  This is WAY too much fun...