Considering an Aero bike. Questions/Advice

[jzinckgra]

I've been riding my Giant TCR Advanced for last two seasons. Prior to that I had a Klein Quantum Pro for nearly 20yrs. I'm 46yo, 6'1", 155lbs. I'm more of a climber and the Giant does real well on the steeps. But, it's also a good all-around bike I think, pretty comfortable, steady on the descents and very nimble.

My rides are typically 30-40mi fairy quick club rides (21mph+ avg) during the week then more hilly and/or longer (50-75mmi) solo rides on the weekend with the occasional century.

I've recently been considering getting an aero frame and building it up with Campy. I'm a Campy snob:) and wouldn't consider anything else. My Giant works well for me, but I have the itch to try an aero frame. Do I need it? No, but life is too short, so.....

Before I started considering an aero frame, I was looking at getting another Giant-like bike. Was drawn to Colnago, being a Campy fan and was looking at the specs of the C64, C60 and V3r, realizing the latter is very different than the C series. Then was taking a look at the Trek Emonda, but realizing I already have a pretty light bike that climbs well, so why get another one. Which brings me to considering an Aero bike.

Started scoping out specs and again drawn to Colnago (pricey though), Cervelo S5 (not that familiar with the brand) and Trek Madone. Lol, is it sacrilegious to put campy on a Trek? Not steadfast on buying new, but I think the best value is probably the Trek, new or used, but to be honest I've never really considered a Trek before because they are so popular and I like to be a little unique, however the Madone seems very well rated, so would still like to consider it.

I understand I should test ride some of these and that will be dictated by what my LBS has. Regarding brakes, are disc brakes more/less aero than caliper brakes? Ideally, I don't want to have to buy another set of rims to get disc brakes and personally I don't think I would benefit that much from them, but also don't want to sacrifice watts if discs are more aero.

Anyways, I'm a bit all over the map at the moment and as the season starts to wind down here in Maine, I need something to think about over the long Winter, so interested in folks opinions, ideas or otherwise. Thanks.

[fa63]

Aero bike with Campagnolo? I would be looking at the Bianchi Oltre XR4. It must ride well both on the flats and climbing, because the entire Team Jumbo-Visma was on it for the TdF including the mountain stages. The disc version has fully hidden cables.

https://cdn.road.cc/sites/default/files/styles/main_width/public/bianchi-oltre-xr4.jpg?itok=-uxtCiMs

https://cdn.road.cc/sites/default/files/styles/main_width/public/bianchi-oltre-xr4-disc.jpg?itok=mQ_8sO0X

[Louis]

I would suggest getting a bike that would be most likely to expand your riding horizons. For example, gravel or cross or even a single speed/fixed.

If you think you're going to do lots of riding where aero will help (say, triathlons) then by all means, go aero, but if not, then go for something that will truly fit a niche/expand your riding options.

Have fun with the project.

[Hank Scorpio]

I built my Canyon with Campagnolo mech 10 speed. The Movistar team rides with Campagnolo as well although it is probably EPS or 12 speed. If you are interested I can put together a package with the record direct mount brakes and bb cups.

https://forums.thepaceline.net/showthread.php?t=242480&highlight=Canyon

[oldguy00]

The main reason for buying an 'aero' road bike is cause they look cool, and that is a good enough reason for me... :)
But don't expect your speed to go up from your Giant!

Maine - I miss doing the Streaked Mountain road race there years ago...just outside of Auburn or Augusta I think. Along with a stop at Rainbow Cycles. :)

[Andy sti]

This place will be ridiculous with answers. You will get very little info on aero bikes and a bunch telling you to do something else.

Did you see the frontal profile of Mads’ bike this weekend? Lots of oncoming camera shots and his Madone looked unbelievable. Take a strong look at that bike. Also check out the new Wilier’s if you want something Italian to hang your Campy on. If you’re going new expect disc but with used you can find rim brakes. Don’t forget to check out Tour Magazine and their aero reviews.

[veggieburger]

If you're going to buy new, research Cervelo a bit more. Great warranty on their frames, and they have always been very cutting edge when it comes to aerodynamics.

[oldguy00]

This place will be ridiculous with answers. You will get very little info on aero bikes and a bunch telling you to do something else.

....

Just to be clear, I'm all for getting a cool aero bike. I have a Felt IA FRD and building a new Trek Speed Concept... :)

Just, when I hear people say they are 'upgrading to an aero...' I wonder if they have expectations of 50 watt savings, etc...

[Andy sti]

Just to be clear, I'm all for getting a cool aero bike. I have a Felt IA FRD and building a new Trek Speed Concept... :)

Just, when I hear people say they are 'upgrading to an aero...' I wonder if they have expectations of 50 watt savings, etc...

Not pointing fingers, although when you ask about aero bikes and get recommended to think about a fixie instead.....

But yes, skin suit without wrinkles, road suit, aero helmet, etc are much bigger savings.

[RobJ]

I've recently been considering getting an aero frame and building it up with Campy. I'm a Campy snob:) and wouldn't consider anything else. My Giant works well for me, but I have the itch to try an aero frame. Do I need it? No, but life is too short, so.....

Best reason to upgrade and I am with you in the Campy camp!

With an aero frame you will lose a little bit of comfort compared to the Giant or other standard road or endurance road designs. Tighter chainstays for the tucked rear tire, aero tube shapes can be less forgiving, chunky aero seat post etc. Plus the general rider position tends to be more aero of course too, depending on how you set it up. Maybe even a slight weight penalty too. So for your fast club rides you would be golden, but might sacrifice a little for the longer weekend solo rides that also sees some altitude gain.

A few have been mentioned here. If Colnago you should also look at the Concept. There are some floating around in the market at good prices. Specialized Venge Vias is another (both disc and rim). Factor O2 is a semi-aero design, which could be a good compromise. Excel has one at 1/2 off. If you are doing some decent climbs/descents I would opt for disc, but of course that adds cost for a new group too. Again there are some super deals on Campy's H11 groupsets (I just picked one up). Good luck.

[jzinckgra]

The main reason for buying an 'aero' road bike is cause they look cool, and that is a good enough reason for me... :)
But don't expect your speed to go up from your Giant!

Maine - I miss doing the Streaked Mountain road race there years ago...just outside of Auburn or Augusta I think. Along with a stop at Rainbow Cycles. :)
Cool. I do that ride every so often. Only live about 20min from Auburn.

[one60]

I think the latest LOOK aero frame is (no pun intended) an overlooked option. The seatpost design is ingenious and makes for a versatile frame...one post allows for setback, straight or TT/Tri set forward positions. Comes in direct mount rim or in disc and takes larger tires. Reviews have been very positive and consistent in their praise...FWIW

Gone is the proprietary ZED crank so it can be built with any groupset

(https://www.bicycling.com/bikes-gear/a23508474/look-blade-795-rs-review/)
https://www.matosvelo.fr/index.php?post/2662/essai-du-look-795-blade-rs-a-patins-velo-aero-polyvalent)

[mtechnica]

Have you searched on weightweenies? There’s a lot more information about aero over there than here. People on this forum are more on the enlightened rather than competitive side. The consensus though seems to be that the handlebar/stem and cable hiding situation is as important as how aero the frame itself is, so I’d be looking for something that has a clean total package then make sure to get some fast wheels with appropriately sized tires as to not negate your aero frame and handlebars.

The biggest question you’ll have to ask yourself is disc or rim, and if disc, are you prepared for changing axle standards that may render your frame obsolete in a few years (road boost)? It seems to be that the best deal would be run brakes then wait it out until the axle situation gets standardized. I’m fairly certain that discs are not more aero and they are definitely heavier, that said most new superbikes are disc only.

Imho I’d take a good look at the new cannondale btw. It’s ugly but it’s supposed to be fast. People are liking BMC as well. For rim brakes I’d look for an aeroad.

[Idris Icabod]

I'm identical in size and weight to you and also a 20+ year Campagnolo rider (and Colnago obsessed, I've had a C40, C50 and currently have a C59) (except Shimano on MTB). I recently picked up a Cervelo R3 on closeout from Excel, not the aero bike but internally routed hydraulic hoses and put Dura Ace Di2 on it.
I was pretty hesitant about Cervelo because friends experience in the past hasn't been stella. My friend had one about 10 years ago and it looked like it had been glued together by a kindergarten class. The finish on my new frame is great, it was simple to route the hoses/wires through the frame, the routing through the bars is a different story.
I'd also look seriously at the Canyon already mentioned. I bought a Lux dual suspension MTB about 2 months ago. It is an incredible bike, The buying experience was great. I bent the hanger a couple of weeks ago and Canyon sent me a new one in 2 days. The only caveat with Canyon is the integrated bar/stem seems to come a bit short and swapping them out doesn't look friendly. But bang for the buck in my opinion it is the best out there.

Finally, my friend rides a Trek with Campagnolo. It can be done!

[yinzerniner]

If you're going to buy new, research Cervelo a bit more. Great warranty on their frames, and they have always been very cutting edge when it comes to aerodynamics.

I know at least one person who might disagree.....
https://forums.thepaceline.net/showthread.php?t=239992&highlight=cervelo+excel

But to the OP, an aero bike should be the last step after all other avenues for speed increase have been taken. The latest gen of aero bikes have solved a lot of the comfort/fit/maintenance/setup/weight issues but they're wildly expensive. If you go previous gen it'll be fast but will still include the above-mentioned issues.

If you're hankering for a new frame then probably the better tact is taking a look at the latest-gen all-around frames, which mostly match the aero benefits of the previous-gen aero frames but are much easier to live with day to day. Frames like the Tarmac, Addict, Supersix, CAAD, Zero SLR, Roadmachine et al have lots of aero and comfort shaping and also don't weight a ton.

[jzinckgra]

I know at least one person who might disagree.....
https://forums.thepaceline.net/showthread.php?t=239992&highlight=cervelo+excel

But to the OP, an aero bike should be the last step after all other avenues for speed increase have been taken. The latest gen of aero bikes have solved a lot of the comfort/fit/maintenance/setup/weight issues but they're wildly expensive. If you go previous gen it'll be fast but will still include the above-mentioned issues.

If you're hankering for a new frame then probably the better tact is taking a look at the latest-gen all-around frames, which mostly match the aero benefits of the previous-gen aero frames but are much easier to live with day to day. Frames like the Tarmac, Addict, Supersix, CAAD, Zero SLR, Roadmachine et al have lots of aero and comfort shaping and also don't weight a ton.

So is my 2yr old TCR considered semi-aero? I don't need another climbing somewhat dedicated bike. I really have no other reason to look at anything else except aero. I guess I'm feeding my hobby:banana:

[yinzerniner]

So is my 2yr old TCR considered semi-aero? I don't need another climbing somewhat dedicated bike. I really have no other reason to look at anything else except aero. I guess I'm feeding my hobby:banana:

Highly doubt you'd feel any appreciable difference between the aforementioned bikes and your TCR since it's already a great bike with tons of comfort. You'd probably be better off investing in aero bars and wheels than getting a new frame, especially if you like the TCR platform. Also the bars and wheels can be transferred to other bikes in case you inevitably feed the upgrade monster :banana:

[EDS]

I strongly recommend you to figure out which of the aero frames fit you and then, out of those, pick the one you think looks the best. Personally, I am smitten by the latest venge.

[veggieburger]

I know at least one person who might disagree.....
https://forums.thepaceline.net/showthread.php?t=239992&highlight=cervelo+excel

That's why I specifically wrote "buying new". Their frame warranties are very good if you're the original purchaser.

[yinzerniner]

That's why I specifically wrote "buying new". Their frame warranties are very good if you're the original purchaser.

And that's specifically why I linked to that thread. The OP purchased the item brand new from an authorized dealer and they built up his bike then refused to warranty it. Same with Cervelo.
https://forums.thepaceline.net/showpost.php?p=2566185&postcount=7
I was literally JRA, chatting and enjoying the morning sunrise. Nothing jammed in there, road was perfectly clear, wasn't standing, wasn't shifting.

The frame was purchased from Excel, and the components were purchased from Pink Jersey. Excel built the bike. It was spinning like a clock until last Saturday morning. So far the shop hasn't offered to help in anyway.

[tv_vt]

Out of curiosity, have you tried any 'aero' clothing? I have a Castelli speedsuit and some seriously skintight Rapha proteam jerseys and I'm very surprised how fast I feel in those outfits. They're not flattering if you have any kind of gut, but I'd swear they reduce drag compared to 'normal' jerseys.

If you like the bike you have, another option to consider is just springing for an aero handlebar/stem combo in carbon. Think they run in the $500-$600 range, but there might be clear aero bennies using those.

Then there's the whole deepdish aero wheel arena to dive into...

In other words, there are lots of other areas besides the frame to make clear marginal gains in the aero dept.

[simonov]

If I could only keep one of my bikes, I'd probably keep the aero one. I don't care if it's all in my head (though I don't think it is), the bike feels faster than my others and it's just as comfortable.

[veggieburger]

And that's specifically why I linked to that thread. The OP purchased the item brand new from an authorized dealer and they built up his bike then refused to warranty it. Same with Cervelo.
https://forums.thepaceline.net/showpost.php?p=2566185&postcount=7

Not to drift the thread, but if the mechanic installed the RD incorrectly, Cervelo should not have to warranty it. This is a shop issue.

Wow, lots of good info in this thread! Thank you to everybody responding! Here's where I stand with updates.

Dan from Campagnolo made contact with me before the end of the day yesterday. Great guy, cares about his product and customers, can't stress that enough! He has asked for the derailer to mailed to him for inspection. He also offered great advice on the geometry of the frame and wheel dish. If only he could build all my bikes!

Pink Jersey went the extra mile by contacting their distributor and called me. Breakages or returns have not been reported to them. So the manufacturing is solid.

Excel has only responded by letting me know the frame might be compromised and I should contact Broken Carbon in Boulder. I did, and they responded with an estimate of $375. for the repair and they're two weeks out. All things considered, that repair price and turn around isn't bad.

I ultimately think there are four possibilities -

1. The set screws were set too close the spokes and the combination of my torque and weight going up the climb caught the derailer.

2. The chain could've also kinked in some way. I never saw a master link when lubing the chain, and it seemed smooth and fine when I wiped the lube off with a towel. I think I would've noticed / felt something out of the ordinary.

3. The chain is too short. I asked for a count of links, I doubt they will provide.

4. I bumped and bent the derailer. I didn't notice if I did. In fact, I've babied this bike more than any bike I've had in a long time.

I'm not sure where I go from here. But I miss not being able to ride and train on my new bike. I have events coming up that I'll most likely miss unless I can find a bike to borrow. I have my CX and mtn bike, but that's not the same. I want to be climbing mtn passes, riding roads, and enjoying the beautiful CO summer!


Had two friends with Cervelos. One had a crack form, the other had a tube separate. Both were taken care of speedily, years after the initial purchase. Awful their frames failed, but nice to see a company standing behind its warranty.

But back to the initial discussion. Cervelo knows aero, and while I doubt you want one of their P-series bikes, they make some pretty nice aero road bikes. Happy shopping!

[kramnnim]

After various light frames (Evo himod, Ridley Helium, BH Ultralight, Parlee Z5), I got an S5 and love it. A little more harsh, but I am not using the widest tires that would fit it. Power meter says it does take fewer watts to maintain the same speeds...or maybe the power meter is slightly off compared to my others.

[jzinckgra]

Circling back to my original post, I am also considering and attracted to the Time Scylon. Not fully Aero, but unique, excellent characteristics, at least according to reviews. Trying to find a used one, but very hard to find in my size (large). Couple on ebay. R&A cycles and Contender have framesets, but more than I want to spend.

[bikinchris]

I like the Orbea Orca Aero.

[macaroon]

I think Canyon are releasing a new aero bike at some point soon.

BMC Timemachine?

https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/21/2019/03/bmc-timemachine-1-launch-22-1530556669548-vjqpq1d9je83-c8f0a01.jpg

[FlashUNC]

Circling back to my original post, I am also considering and attracted to the Time Scylon. Not fully Aero, but unique, excellent characteristics, at least according to reviews. Trying to find a used one, but very hard to find in my size (large). Couple on ebay. R&A cycles and Contender have framesets, but more than I want to spend.

Times are phenomenal bikes, but get one without the Aktiv fork. That thing is....uh....something else.

[jzinckgra]

Times are phenomenal bikes, but get one without the Aktiv fork. That thing is....uh....something else.Huh? Why without? I thought it smoothes out the front end

[FlashUNC]

Huh? Why without? I thought it smoothes out the front end

It's heavy as a dump truck, it looks ugly, and you have weights swinging back and forth inside the fork to "dampen" the vibration.

Time bikes are smooth enough as it is and ride beautifully. Get the simpler fork.

[glepore]

Cento 10 in Ramato or the mirror blue. Because.

[kramnnim]

Cento 10 in Ramato or the mirror blue. Because.

I want one so much :(

[one60]

Circling back to my original post, I am also considering and attracted to the Time Scylon. Not fully Aero, but unique, excellent characteristics, at least according to reviews. Trying to find a used one, but very hard to find in my size (large). Couple on ebay. R&A cycles and Contender have framesets, but more than I want to spend.

The TIME ZXRS from 2014/15 was the predecessor to the Skylon now know as the Scylon (due to trademarking issues IIRC). TIME bikes are simply wonderful, beautifully made bikes. I have been fortunate to have a variety of top tier bikes but there is something special about the ZXRS. It probably qualifies as semi-aero like the Scylon. Ignore the naysayers and get the ISP version. The TIME seatpin allows for 3cm of adjustment so in no way makes fitting or gear changes an issue. If you can find the French edition at a discounted price grab it, its gorgeous! Good luck with the hunt!!

http://avantcycles.jp/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/22539724_726084714244170_3348966775171418923_n.jpg

[giordana93]

you should check out the 2020 Scott Addict RC--it's a lightweight climbing bike with aero updates, including totally invisible cables. I have a Scott Foil and it's pretty amazing. both of these are disc brakes if that matters.

https://cyclingtips.com/2019/06/scott-addict-rc-2020-first-ride-review/

https://keyassets.timeincuk.net/inspirewp/live/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2019/07/Tour-bikes-2019_Adam-Yates-Scott1_323251251_581328381.jpg

[jzinckgra]

you should check out the 2020 Scott Addict RC--it's a lightweight climbing bike with aero updates, including totally invisible cables. I have a Scott Foil and it's pretty amazing. both of these are disc brakes if that matters.



https://cyclingtips.com/2019/06/scott-addict-rc-2020-first-ride-review/



https://keyassets.timeincuk.net/inspirewp/live/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2019/07/Tour-bikes-2019_Adam-Yates-Scott1_323251251_581328381.jpgThanks. I've already got my TCR as my climbing bike

[jzinckgra]

Anyone looking to sell a Time Skylon, large? Needle in a haystack.:banana:

[one60]

There are only a few US based TIME dealers. Contender may have what you need? There are also the TIME frames that were made for Lemond. There were a few TIMEs and Lemonds at River City Cycles last time I checked.

Good luck!

[Mikej]

Trek Madone- iso coupler softens up the ride.

[uber]

Any decisions yet? I too am looking for an aero framed bike but am willing to try Shimano if necessary. Venge was too uncomfortable for me. Bianchi is beautiful, fast and smooth. Geo might not be right for me. I am considering a Madone. I would love to hear what you decided.

[noysboy]

Being in the middle of a venge vias tune up...

Be careful about any bike that has proprietary rim brakes...as they can be a real PITA to maintain. UGH!

[chirpy999]

Try a madone, rides really well go for sram gears and disks .