SuperDave wrote:
2015 DA with Textreme carbon fiber improves the 2014 DA in what ways (grams, stiffness) and same question for the AR FRD versus AR 2???
Seriously looking at purchasing 2 Felts but weighing the relative merits of 2014 DA vs 2015 and the 2015s AR FRD vs 2.
Thanks.
The TeXtreme on the DA1 in 2015 improves impact damage resistance and shaves ~75g from the 54cm frame weight. You also get the new VR module in the seatpost for a more comfortable ride. Stiffness and aerodynamics are kept the same as the 2014 DA2.
The AR FRD is both stiffer and lighter than the AR2. This is the only example where the premium frame is made to be stiffer than our other lower grade lay ups. The AR FRD was made to the same stiffness requirements as our F FRD. The AR2 is no slouch though as it's been proven with 20+ professional wins this year most of them coming in criteriums where stiffness is crucial for all the 25-35 mph accelerations repeated over and over lap after lap. The VR module is included in the AR2 as well and while it adds a few grams, it does improve the seated ride compliance.
If I were honest, the DA1 and AR2 would be the way to go for most consumers. If you're the kind of guy that has to have the best of everything, the DA1 frameset with some Di2 shifting components and the AR FRD bike are for you.
The wind doesn't know how much money you spent but it does know if you settled on a slower frame from another manufacturer.
-SD[/quote]
Thanks again for the help on this. Went in to look at ordering and came away scratching my head... the AR FRD is electronic only? No conversion kit if you do want to run mechanical or am I mistaken? Regarding the tt bike, the DA is listed as mechanical compatible but I don't see the same for the AR FRD?? The AR2 is mechanical compatible so if I went with that are we talking about 100 grams difference compared to the AR FRD? Finally, any data on the DA with the bayonet integrated front brake?
Thanks again.