[Mission_PGPX]

Originally Posted by amol4184

Both are great bikes and going either way wouldn't be a wrong decision. While both are race geo bikes, Emonda is still between endurance and proper race geometry. Propel on the other hand is an outright aggressive race + aero bike. The proper alternative to Propel would be Madone.

As far as the tubing goes, Trek claims Emonda has some aero tubes but Propel is a certified aero bike. In all circumstance except steep climbs, aero bikes will be faster even if they weigh more. If average speed on flats or moderate climbs is your prime concern, go for Propel and rip tiny (but useful) benefits of aero tubing. I have a heavy aero bike and it is without doubt faster than my other weight weeny bikes.

Re: mechanical v/s Di2. This is mostly "quality of life" or "nice to have" deal but not essential. Mechanical groupset won't hold you back. You don't have to worry about electronics or charging the battery. Replacement parts are cheaper etc. You don't need app to tune things.

What wheelset does Propel come with? If you can afford, Giant Propel + deep carbon aero wheels would be a fantastic combination.

Hi, Thanks for your quick response. I took a 5 km ride on each back to back, specifically with propel on S and M size both. Starting with propel in S size, the cabin felt very cramped and since i am new to such aero geometry bike, I was shifting too much body weight on hands. So I was not confident of handling the bike at first and felt really scary with steering wobble as well. I definitely could not even dare to stand up and ride this.

Then took Emonda ALR size 54 (that was only in ready stock) and boy it was perfect. Within 1 km, I was pushing her over well over 35 kmph. There was so much room to adjust my body posture. Though it wasn't as fast overall as propel but it was confidence inspiring.

Then I realized that the size as per Giant recommendation is S, but let me try M. Thankfully It was there in stock and I tried that. The ride was still aggressive than Emonda but felt better than size S propel. I pushed it well over 40 kmph on an empty stretch slight downhill. After that 5 km, my trapz were starting to feel sore, may its overall load on them due to aggressive geometry or I was very stiff.

Then came the test ride of Di2, it was scott addict with Di2. I found the shifting super accurate. The rear shifting did not feel much different (cluncky) but front shifting made me realize how smooth it can be. I am sure it needs proper adjustment etc. But I like how confidence inspiring it can be.

So decision time, Emonda it is. Question is SL5 or SL6? SL6 sound more value for money package, considering I am getting both carbon wheels and Di2 with carbon seat mast in about 80,000 INR more. Is it worth to go the whole hog or should I restrict to SL5?

Thanks all lovely people for your suggestions!!

P.S.: How do we know which gear we are in or we have to push as per comfort? sounds like a car-guy.

[Sudarshan_SMD]

Originally Posted by Mission_PGPX

Good morning to all Cycling enthusiasts and community,
I have recently started to explore this sport and would need opinions from experts.

my background: In principle, i am a marathon runner, having all premium races including one 50k ultra under my belt consistent in running since over a decade now.

As a next challenge, I am planning to do one ironman 70.3 in 2025. I having been doing 60-80 km on my firefox hybrid at 22 kmph average, which is not enough for such premium race. I dont mind spending on good bike. I have in principle shortlisted 2 options based on my minimum requirements of shimano 105 groupset and good geometry:

a) Giant Propel Advance 2
b) Trek Emonda SL5

both above options are almost at same price range of 2.4 lacs.

one Alternate or rather upgraded full carbon option is Trek emonda SL6 pro di2 offered at

I have no experience of di2 or carbon wheels but those are included in SL6, which is offered at 3.2 lacs.
Now I am confused at is it worth upgrading to SL6 right from start since in principle i dont plan to ride those mega distance BRMs etc. my max bike leg even if I upgrade to full Ironman would be 180 km.

your valuable suggestions are welcome. If you can patch me up with a good deal it would be even sweeter.

stay fit, stay healthy!!

The Emonda SL6 Pro
The extra 80k that you would for carbon wheels + di2 is totally worth it.
Carbon wheels: You would either way think and consider getting deep section wheels once you get a Bike.
They are faster, and more compliant(absorb road vibration better).

di2: For me di2 is godsend. No maintenance required. The shifting always works.

Another note: Since you mentioned the confusion between sizes.
Which City are you located in?
I'd recommend getting a Bike fit. It will at least ensure the right size Bike.
Prepare to spend some extra on crankeset, handlebar, and saddle for your bike fit.
As a general rule, ff falling between two bike size, get the smaller one.

On a different note:
Since you are considering racing Ironman, would you consider a TimeTrial bike?

[amol4184]

Originally Posted by Mission_PGPX

Then came the test ride of Di2, it was scott addict with Di2. I found the shifting super accurate. The rear shifting did not feel much different (cluncky) but front shifting made me realize how smooth it can be. I am sure it needs proper adjustment etc. But I like how confidence inspiring it can be.

So decision time, Emonda it is. Question is SL5 or SL6? SL6 sound more value for money package, considering I am getting both carbon wheels and Di2 with carbon seat mast in about 80,000 INR more. Is it worth to go the whole hog or should I restrict to SL5?

Thanks all lovely people for your suggestions!!

P.S.: How do we know which gear we are in or we have to push as per comfort? sounds like a car-guy.

Di2 can be tuned to be extremely precise. If it felt clunky there definitely is some tuning problem as IMO Di2 is the pinnacle of smooth shifting. Di2 > SRAM AXS > SRAM eTap > Campy EPS. Don't worry about it, a good mechanic can fix it or you can do it yourself at home too if you are in the mood for tinkering.

If I were you, and could afford the extra hit to the wallet, I will drop the extra 80k and bring home the whole deal. That 80k will be a one time pinch, sweet electronic shifting will be forever. Moreover since you liked electronic shifting, its going to be hard to go for mechanical

The Di2 can be paired with almost all GPS/bike computer systems e.g. Garmin Edge. I had some trouble pairing it with Magene C506 but it did connect eventually.
Older 10 and 11 speed units need a separate wireless unit to be installed while new 12 speed Di2 have all the wireless capabilities built in them and connect to bike computers straight away. Once paired, the Di2 systems shows front and rear gear count and effective ratio. Its not super useful but its there.
After a while you don't need to look at gear number as your legs get accustomed to the cadence and your instincts tell you which is comfortable gear and which is not.

[Mission_PGPX]

Originally Posted by Sudarshan_SMD

The Emonda SL6 Pro
The extra 80k that you would for carbon wheels + di2 is totally worth it.
di2: For me di2 is godsend. No maintenance required. The shifting always works.

Another note: Since you mentioned the confusion between sizes.
Which City are you located in?
I'd recommend getting a Bike fit. It will at least ensure the right size Bike.
Prepare to spend some extra on crankeset, handlebar, and saddle for your bike fit.
As a general rule, ff falling between two bike size, get the smaller one.

Hi Sudarshan,
Thanks for your valuable inputs. I am located in Ahmedabad and not sure if such expertise is available. What did you mean when you say ready to spend extra on crankset, handlebar etc? Will I need to change them or rather upgrade them?

Originally Posted by Sudarshan_SMD

Since you are considering racing Ironman, would you consider a TimeTrial bike?

I have to first get hands on experience on Road bikes and see if I am comfortable upgrading to TT bike. Also TT bike would be practically useless since we cant take our hands off the brakes in India during practice rides.

Originally Posted by amol4184

Di2 can be tuned to be extremely precise. If it felt clunky there definitely is some tuning problem as IMO Di2 is the pinnacle of smooth shifting. Di2 > SRAM AXS > SRAM eTap > Campy EPS. Don't worry about it, a good mechanic can fix it or you can do it yourself at home too if you are in the mood for tinkering.

If I were you, and could afford the extra hit to the wallet, I will drop the extra 80k and bring home the whole deal. That 80k will be a one time pinch, sweet electronic shifting will be forever. Moreover since you liked electronic shifting, its going to be hard to go for mechanical

The Di2 can be paired with almost all GPS/bike computer systems e.g. Garmin Edge. I had some trouble pairing it with Magene C506 but it did connect eventually.

Hey Amol,
Thanks a lot for your advise. Now it seems Bike is not the only thing i would need, I need to consider some basic accessories as well, like bike computer, indoor trainer etc. Any views on Tacx flux 2 smart trainer. I am getting a used one in 40K, sounds a good deal but haven't checked it physically yet.

I am in that exciting yet anxious phase of my training, where motivation to spend money is also required. As they say invest in good gears and enjoy the training. Would you mind listing what all I would need to buy in addition to bike computer and approx budget? I cam across the site bumsonthesaddle.com. Any reviews about that?

[Sudarshan_SMD]

Originally Posted by Mission_PGPX

Hi Sudarshan,
Thanks for your valuable inputs. I am located in Ahmedabad and not sure if such expertise is available. What did you mean when you say ready to spend extra on crankset, handlebar etc? Will I need to change them or rather upgrade them?

I have to first get hands on experience on Road bikes and see if I am comfortable upgrading to TT bike. Also TT bike would be practically useless since we cant take our hands off the breaks in India during practice rides.

Agree with your thoughts on the TT bike. Road bike would be more useful, and fun. Purely on the performance/speed in Ironman, TT bike would much better.

On the bike fit, just make sure you get the right size bike. Other tweaks can happen as you get experience with the bike. Handlebar, Saddle, and crank arm length are important point on the bike which can be tweaked for better fit. I might be making it confusing, don't think about it right now.

On the indoor trainer:
Tacx Flux 2 for 40k sound like a good deal.
Also check if you bike dealer is able to do good deal on the trainer.
Cannot go wrong with any of: JetBlack Victory, Wahoo Kickr core, Elite Director XR.

bumsonthesaddle is good and trusted.

Things to consider:
- Shoe that fits. If you have wide feet, prefer shoes that offer wide toebox.
Assuming use of clipless pedals. If you are not using one, these are the low hanging fruit for performance.
- Bibshort: good bib short goes long way in ensuring comfort on the saddle.

[Mission_PGPX]

Originally Posted by amol4184

If I were you, and could afford the extra hit to the wallet, I will drop the extra 80k and bring home the whole deal. That 80k will be a one time pinch, sweet electronic shifting will be forever. Moreover since you liked electronic shifting, its going to be hard to go for mechanical

Hey Amol,
Thanks a lot for your advise. Now it seems Bike is not the only thing I would need, I need to consider some basic accessories as well, like bike computer, indoor trainer etc. Any views on Tacx flux 2 smart trainer. I am getting a used one in 40K, sounds a good deal but haven't checked it physically yet.

I am in that exciting yet anxious phase of my training, where motivation to spend money is also required. As they say invest in good gears and enjoy the training. Would you mind listing what all I would need to buy in addition to bike computer and approx budget? I came across the site bumsonthesaddle.com. Any reviews about that?

[amol4184]

bumsonthesaddle (BOTS) is generally good. When I was looking at stuff that was the only website that had in stock outside of sketchy sellers on CYCLOP group on FB.

However, the light I bought on BOTS broke its strap on its own and when I asked if there is any warranty or at least a replacement strap available there was no reply to multiple emails. I eventually used ziptie to semi-permanently attach that light to the handlebar. Anyway anecdotal experience, so it might not matter much. I think BOTS is one of the very few websites in India catering to premium bike parts. Either that or you ask someone abroad to get your stuff.

Apart from bike computer, you need helmet, gloves, jersey/bibs, shoes, pedals, water bottles and cages, front and rear safety lights etc. Sky is the limit for options and budget when buying accessories and gear! However for the first time buyer, no need to go super high end but don't get the bottom of the barrel stuff either which will break quickly.

[Passatman]

Originally Posted by Mission_PGPX

Hey Amol,
Thanks a lot for your advise. Now it seems Bike is not the only thing i would need, I need to consider some basic accessories as well, like bike computer, indoor trainer etc. Any views on Tacx flux 2 smart trainer. I am getting a used one in 40K, sounds a good deal but haven't checked it physically yet.

I am in that exciting yet anxious phase of my training, where motivation to spend money is also required. As they say invest in good gears and enjoy the training. Would you mind listing what all I would need to buy in addition to bike computer and approx budget? I cam across the site bumsonthesaddle.com. Any reviews about that?

Hi,
Welcome to the exhilarating addictive world of cycling!

Acquiring a good bike is 80% of the job done; one will also require a bike computer with the necessary sensors for cadence, heartbeat + cycling shorts & jerseys+ lights to ensure your bike is lit up like a Christmas tree + cleats (shoes) + a good helmet + gloves + a hydration bladder (AHD is hot) + good goggles + an indoor trainer (if one plans to ride indoors on some days).

This list can go on and on... and it gets addictive

Aerobars are of not much use in our country, as I experienced, since almost anything from bikes/ autos on the wrong side , stray animals (cows, dogs) +pedestrians can pop up anytime in ones path. I use them for very short distances while on a ride. Most of the time I ride on the hoods (not even on the racing position). And yes, get a good bike fit done, preferably after reading up on the subject, to ensure a competent fit.

Cycling is a great way to stay fit and one picks up new buddies along the way too while on rides! So get on the saddle and have fun!

[Axe77]

Originally Posted by Mission_PGPX

my background: In principle, i am a marathon runner, having all premium races including one 50k ultra under my belt consistent in running since over a decade now.

As a next challenge, I am planning to do one ironman 70.3 in 2025. I having been doing 60-80 km on my firefox hybrid at 22 kmph average, which is not enough for such premium race. I dont mind spending on good bike.

Hi Mission. Triathlon is a fantastic sport and all the best with your journey - so happy to read about another endurance athlete embracing this sport. I’ve myself done a fair few marathons including 4 of the majors (I consider running my strength within the three disciplines) and I’ve also done three 70.3s although the last one was as far back as 2019.

Out of curiosity, may I ask which 70.3 race / races have you shortlisted for 2025?

You’ve already received some on point advise from cycling enthusiasts who are far more knowledgeable than me I’m sure when it comes to cycling hardware, so my replies are kind of incremental to what they’ve already said - some are in the context of the questions you’ve asked, and some to questions that you haven’t perhaps but worth considering.

What components:

By all means, go for the best components you can afford including the best wheels etc. Just make sure if you’re going for very deep section wheels you should also be well capable of handling any mechanical issues along the way with deeper section carbon wheels requiring longer valves etc. which you should ensure you are carrying spares of during a race if required. I don’t have experience of electronic shifters but those who do have clearly mentioned the advantages of Di2 so by all means go for it.

What bike:

When it comes to bike geometry as you might be aware geometry can be very specific. I can understand the reluctance to buy a TT bike as it is not practical in Indian riding conditions and also much more demanding. However, TT bikes are not only about the aerobars set up, the entire frame is designed with a “triathlon friendly geometry”. Do read up about this a little more. To this end, please also research a brand called Ceepo. They are triathlon specialists and also retailed in India (by Mastermind bikes). Consider the Ceepo Mamba their entry model as the frame is a triathlon geometry bike but with a road cockpit format with normal road bike style handlebars. You can always attach aerobars on it as an extra but it might give you the best of both worlds. I myself have a Ceepo Mamba as my tri bike to which I attached aerobars as an aftermarket extra. See if they’re willing to spec it up with your desired component set of di2 etc.

Bike fit:

More important than the right bike is the right “bike fit”. Please iron this out in advance BEFORE you bite the bullet on the purchase. If possible, let the person advising you on best bike fit be separate from the bike retailer. There are quality bike fit folks who can measure you up, analyse the specific frame specifications of each brand in question and guide you as to which bike is likely to fit you better. I know at least one chap in Mumbai who was very good at this (Brit guy who used to train the Scott racing team IIRC). Frame size means nothing as each brand has very bespoke frame geometry associated which will involve seeing your overall rider triangle, reach to handlebar and what not.

Bike trainer:

Wahoo and Tacx are both excellent - please make sure you buy something that has good local coverage here. I’ve used wahoo kickr snap for many years but both these brands are pretty much excellent and last I knew both had local dealer coverage. Check on warranty support though in advance.

Skills:

Investing in all the best hardware is fine but I would seriously urge you spend a good amount of time with a mechanic learning basic maintenance and most importantly, how to change a flat tyre. The best hardware is no use if mid race you get a flat and cant change it [i]very quickly[/b] AND on your own.

Training:

May I ask who you are training with for your first 70.3? At the cost of using a Lance cliche, ultimately “Its not about the bike”. It’s about the athlete and that in turn will come down to the quality of your training / training plan. The quality and structure of your training is key (as you’d already know being an experience marathoner and ultra runner).

Do research well on which Tri coach you plan to be training with. I’ve had experience with multiple coaches in India as well as one who was overseas so have some first hand experience of the pros and cons of some of the folks here.

When it comes to triathlons, swimming can be the difference between a finish and DNF outcome (many debutants I know prematurely end their race in the swim). In 70.3 and higher distances, the bike is what makes the biggest difference to your finish timing; and finally of course, one would want to mostly “run” the run and not have a walk / jog third leg. All of this comes down to the right quality of training.

I am sure you have considered all this since you’re an experienced runner already but just thought I’d put my initial thoughts in one place in case any of the additional points are helpful. All the best and happy to address any other questions you may have.

[RiderZone]

I have been looking around for a carbon bike under 1000 Euros for quite a while now which doesn't have internal cable routing, and the options are extremely limited. Part of the problem is that I need roughly a size 53 bike, and people here are too tall on average for that to be commonly available.

Anyways, here's one option I've found, size 52 which I think is good enough, but the asking price is 950 Euros. It's a 2018 bike, done about 7000 kms. Can I have your opinions please if it's worth the money, or any other general observations, thanks!

[Mission_PGPX]

Originally Posted by Axe77

I’ve myself done a fair few marathons including 4 of the majors (I consider running my strength within the three disciplines) and I’ve also done three 70.3s although the last one was as far back as 2019.

Out of curiosity, may I ask which 70.3 race / races have you shortlisted for 2025?

Hi Axe77, Thank you so much for your super summary of what pointers I should look into as my first. I am awaiting registrations to open for Bahrain.

Originally Posted by Axe77

What components:

By all means, go for the best components you can afford including the best wheels etc. Just make sure if you’re going for very deep section wheels you should also be well capable of handling any mechanical issues along the way with deeper section carbon wheels requiring longer valves etc. which you should ensure you are carrying spares of during a race if required. I don’t have experience of electronic shifters but those who do have clearly mentioned the advantages of Di2 so by all means go for it.

so then took the advise and booked the Emonda SL6. I am still in that mind frame if I make the right decision, but size 52 was only available in SL6 hence it was a no brainer.

Originally Posted by Axe77

Bike trainer:

Wahoo and Tacx are both excellent - please make sure you buy something that has good local coverage here. I’ve used wahoo kickr snap for many years but both these brands are pretty much excellent and last I knew both had local dealer coverage. Check on warranty support though in advance.

Got a sparingly used Tacx flux 2 smart trainer and ordered. everything should be delivered by next week.

Originally Posted by Axe77

Skills:

Investing in all the best hardware is fine but I would seriously urge you spend a good amount of time with a mechanic learning basic maintenance and most importantly, how to change a flat tyre. The best hardware is no use if mid race you get a flat and cant change it [i]very quickly[/b] AND on your own.

absolutely, being a car guy, I am usually into DIY as far as possible and looking at youtube, this doesnt sound as tough as to replace air filter and AC filter in my w214. But yes since Ironman is self supporting race, i will have to learn practically everything.

Originally Posted by Axe77

Training:

May I ask who you are training with for your first 70.3?

So, currently i am training with my friend cum coach who did full ironman in Israel and an austswim certified coach for swimming. He started providing professional coaching services since 2019 only. Other than that I am mostly on my own. I will make a 20 weeks training plan, just like one I made for my FM PB of <4:30 hrs. Having said that, can you please DM me the best coach you have come across whom I can get in touch with and design a plan. I would rather need a nutrition plan, since i am very bad at eating the right food. I cant train everyday and recovery is required by my body atleast 2 days. So i have design a plan that covers atleast 3-4 swim sessions in a week, 2-3 bike session with saturday long ride in zone 2 outdoor and sunday brick workout and after sunrise. So 10 hrs per week needs to be distributed within 5 days. It would be great if you can patch me up with a good coach who can accommodate my above limitations.

Thank you everyone for your suggestions and advices. Biggest purchase of bike is done now its training time.

[amol4184]

Originally Posted by RiderZone

I have been looking around for a carbon bike under 1000 Euros for quite a while now which doesn't have internal cable routing, and the options are extremely limited. Part of the problem is that I need roughly a size 53 bike, and people here are too tall on average for that to be commonly available.

Anyways, here's one option I've found, size 52 which I think is good enough, but the asking price is 950 Euros. It's a 2018 bike, done about 7000 kms. Can I have your opinions please if it's worth the money, or any other general observations, thanks!

Everything on that bike is top notch. I love colorful and bright things so that paintjob gets 10/10 from me - anything but boring black, grey, stealth color combos for me.

Ultegra 8000 is one of the finest, last of the purely mechanical groupset and since its 11 speed, replacement parts are getting cheap every passing day. This bike in general is set for many more years of enjoyment.

Personally, not a big fan of Mavic wheels but those are nice hoops with metal brake tracks so your braking performance will be better than full carbon (plus cheaper brake pads). Obviously not the lightest so you have a big potential to drop some weight in the wheels department.

Do check the geometry and compare tube sizes to 53cm bikes of other manufacturers that fit you well. As a rule in cycling sizes, always go smaller than bigger.

Can't talk about the price because it depends on many factors. Used bikes market is right now in terrible shape and rim brake bikes are not as sought after either unless there is something extraordinary going on with it (e.g. replica/limited edition/rare color/expensive exotic carbon parts) so if there is margin for haggling, definitely do that.

[Axe77]

Originally Posted by Mission_PGPX

Hi Axe77, Thank you so much for your super summary of what pointers I should look into as my first. I am awaiting registrations to open for Bahrain.

How nice. That happens to be my first 70.3 race too. I did Bahrain in Dec 2016 IIRC. Was a properly choppy swim that year. The Middle East had a strong investment in triathlon thanks to the personal interest of HH Sheikh Nasser Bin Hamad Al Khalif, who is himself a triathlete. I was under the impression that the entire Middle Eastern circuit had had some falling out with the Ironman brand and that’s why there were no races in Middle East last few years. Didn’t realise Bahrain is back on the circuit. Their team Bahrain Endurance 13 had some fantastic athletes like Jan Frodeno and even Daniela Ryf racing under their name.

It should be a good race - all the best training and have fun.

[Jeroen]

Originally Posted by RiderZone

Anyways, here's one option I've found, size 52 which I think is good enough, but the asking price is 950 Euros. It's a 2018 bike, done about 7000 kms. Can I have your opinions please if it's worth the money, or any other general observations, thanks!

Whether that is a good price is entirely up to the state of the carbon frame. You will need a specialist shop with some special equipment to check it properly. Should not be a problem to find one in Germany.

But here is the thing. A carbon frame bike, only 7000km and 950 euros? Good carbon frames bikes are expensive and tend to be bought by the more serious riders who will clock 7000 km per year minimum.

There are cheap carbon bikes out there as well. I would run a mile from them.

On the upside, no matter what, 950 Euros is not going to break the bank. Unfortunately, the carbon frames might break your bones if it snaps!

Just my opinion: unless you are a true mile muncher cyclist and participate in true cycle racing, I would never ever get a carbon frame. The pro’s just don’t out weight the cons. The fragility of carbon fibre, the invisibility of damage, the propensity for sudden and catastrophic failure, makes it just about about the worst material from which to make a bicycle.

Jeroen