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5 High-end bikes we got excited about in 2016

— By Michael Liberzon

Last week, we reviewed five great entry-level bike options for triathletes to consider as a newbie or budget-conscious athlete in the sport. Here then is the other end of the spectrum. Exotic materials, shapes, and new technologies abound in these five high-end bikes that got us excited in 2016. So start saving your pennies!

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Felt IA 1 – $11000 USD

 

HIGHLIGHTS:

Felt’s triathlon flagship is true superbike. It’s fully integrated, yet adjustable front end, coupled with a clean, top tube bento make it both aerodynamic and functional. With nary a cable in sight, a slim frontal cross-sections, and deep, aero shapes this bike is certainly fast.

BUILD:

  • SRAM eTap wireless drivetrain
  • Zipp 404 Firecrest wheelset
  • Felt’s proprietary, integrated brake calipers
  • Felt’s own carbon aero bar and extensions with pedestals

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Cervelo P5X – $~11000 CAD with Ultegra DI2

 

HIGHLIGHTS:

There is a lot to be said about Cevelo’s latest tri bike. As an engineer, a coach, and a bike fitter, the P5x ticks just about all of my personal boxes. Like every high-end bike builder, Cervelo claims that the P5x is the fastest thing out there. I have more faith in their aerodynamics than most though since Cervelo actually publishes its test data. What impresses most however, is the ease of adjustability of this superbike. Fitting and adjusting is the Achilles’ heel of most integrated superbikes. In this aspect, the P5x blows the competition away: adjustability is easy and intuitive. This fitter can’t wait to get his hands on one!

BUILD:

  • Shimano Ultegra DI2 drivetrain
  • HED Jet 6 Plus Wheelset
  • TRP 25 mechanical disk brakes
  • Custom P5x aerobar and extensions

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Diamondback Andean – $6420 USD standard build

 

HIGHLIGHTS:

Want to ride a tri bike that looks like a Ducati? The Andean is your steed! Designed in collaboration with aerodynamicists at the University of Toronto, the Andean features the longest wheel fairings in the market, smart and ample internal storage – including a compartment for garbage! –  the obvious lack of seat stays, and disk brakes. Diamondback claims this to be the fastest bike out there – and it well may be. Diamondback’s direct-to-consumer model, and online customization process ensures that you get the exact Andean you want.

BUILD:

  • Shimano Ultegra DI2 drivetrain
  • HED Jet wheelset
  • TRP Spyre mechanical disk brakes
  • HED Corsair carbon base aerobar and extensions

 

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Giant Liv Avow Advanced Pro 1 – $5,400 USD

 

HIGHLIGHTS:

Giant’s Liv series of bikes are built ground-up with female riders in mind. This makes it a little easier to find that Goldilocks frame size. This Liv Avow model boasts many of the neatly-integrated features that are now superbike hallmarks: front hydration, top-tube bento, behind-the-saddle bottle mount AND a downtube aero bottle. Plus we love that stand-out paint job!

BUILD:

  • Shimano Dura-Ace DI2 drivetrain
  • Giant’s SLR 1 wheelset
  • Vision Tri Max Crank
  • Giant’s own speed control integrate brake calipers
  • Liv carbon base aerobar and pedestal-ready s-bend extensions

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Specialized S-Works Shiv – $10,000 USD

 

HIGHLIGHTS:

Specialized’s top of the line triathlon offering is tried and true. It includes a removable hydration bladder hidden in the beefy downtube and custom front triangle storage that not only is completely hidden from the wind, but will actually reduce aerodynamic drag at higher yaw angles.

BUILD:

    • Shimano Dura-Ace DI2 drivetrain
    • Roval Rapide CLX 60 wheelset
    • S-Works Carbon crank
    • Specilized direct-mount brake calipers

 

  • Specialized carbon base bar and aero stem

 

All prices are MSRP