Surprisingly, even with the supplied, less aerodynamic Shimano training wheels, the bike performs well in the wind tunnel (307 watts at 45 km/h). With Zipp 808 wheels, the bike even joins the ranks of the top time trial bikes. The riding characteristics are convincing all round: the riding stability is at a good level, the long wheelbase guarantees stoic directional stability. The integrated brakes are by far the best we have ever experienced on a time trial bike.
Conclusion: a very good starting point for budget-conscious time trialists, which offers potential for further optimisation thanks to the possibility of mounting a Di2 drivetrain.
Test winnerimpeccable handling characteristics, high aero potential. Super brakes, simple wheels
Price 3,000 euros
Weight 9.1 kilos
Available in Specialised trade
Reference/Info www.giant-bicycles.de
Frame sizes* 47,5, 50, 52, 54, 56 cm
Seat/steering angle 75°-79°/73°
Seat/top tube/head tube 555/550/150 mm plus 7 mm spacer
Wheelbase/caster 1,020/60 mm
Stack/Reach** 551/440 mm
EQUIPMENT
Brakes/brake lever TRP/Tektro
Gear lever/gear shift Shimano handlebar limit switch/Shimano Dura-Ace
Bottom bracket Shimano Ultegra (53/39 t., BSA)
Wheels/tyres Shimano R500/Giant P-SL1
Saddle Giant Triathlon
Handlebar/stem Giant Connect
*Manufacturer's specification; test frame size greased.
**Stack/reach: projected vertical/horizontal dimension from the centre of the bottom bracket to the top of the headset tube.
