I was hoping I could get some advice on which bike I should buy. I am considering either the Kestrel Talon or the QR Tiphoon. I currently ride a 2000 QR Tequilo with full Ultegra. I am looking to expand my distances to 1/2 IM this year and full IM next year. I live in Florida so most of my training and racing is flat. I am 5’ 10", 200 lb. and I am not sure which bike would be better suited for me. The roads are starting to get a little cracked from the constant sun but for the most part aren’t all that bad. I have ridden a Tiphoon but have not been afforded the opportunity to ride a Talon due to lack of dealership close by. I did ride a Trek Team Time Trial but couldn’t get the bike to fit me, medium frame too big, small frame too small. The Trek felt pretty good in ride quality but so did the Tiphoon. I realize one bike is carbon and the other is 6/4 titanium. I also realize the Tiphoon seat angle is 76.5 degrees and the 52cm Kestrel Talon I would need specs out at 74.5 degrees although I am told that with their aero seatpost I could get to 76+. And the other fact I realize is that the Tiphoon costs more. I just can’t seem to figure out which is the better suited bike for me and my build. I’d appreciate any help that anyone has out there.
Sounds easy to me. BTW, I’m assuming we’re talking about the Talon, not the Talon SL.
You’re willing to pay the extra $$.
The Roo will be more durable for you. At your weight it’s a bit of an issue.
You’ve ridden the Roo; it fits you. It sounds like you won’t be able to test the Kestrel.
You have a dealer close by that will sell you the Roo, therefore it will be easy to go to them with problems, issues, etc… w/ your bike.
The Talon might be lighter(not sure), but where you live that’s not going to be much of an issue.
You’ll be supporting your LBS.
The Tiphoon is a great bike. I personally am not very impressed w/ the Talon. I haven’t had the oppportunity to test a Talon SL, so I’m not sure about that one. This is MY opinion. I’m sure there are Talon owners out there who love their bike.
One vote for the Roo.
seems like you know the QR is suited to you fit wise, and would be taking a chance with the talon since you have not been on one. since fit is going to be much more important than frame material (IMO), why take the chance? nothing worse than being on an ill-fitting bike for the IM distance, regardless of the frame material.
Another vote for the QR