pretty much the sickest bike ever.
http://www.feltracing.com/2004_frame/2004_b2_frame.html
i’m planning on getting one before summer. seems like a super good deal for about $1200.00 for the frame. that’s so much cheaper than other top end frames.
anyone ridden one yet? any feedback anyone?
luke
I can tell you first hand it is a nice frame. My understanding is frames are available right now. I owned it’s “big brother” a Felt DA650 and have a new DA650 frame hanging from the ceiling in here in my size. It may one day become mine again based on my positive expereince with the bike on the first try. The B2 and the DA650/700 are quite similar frames. Both are very, very nice. If your measurements match the bike (yeah, I do get sick of saying that) it will be a nice ride. Not as aero as some, lighter than almost all others, surprisingly durable and amazingly comfortable. Went up hills nice too.
Here’s an old review of the '02 DA650 for it’s worth to you:
http://www.bikesportmichigan.com/reviews/felt.shtml
Good luck, I know you’ll love it!
That is a really nice frame, and if you are frame only shopping, it may be a short search if the B2 fits the bill. Another thing to consider is the S22 complete bike. This is built on the EXACT same frame, headset, carbon post, and fork that the $1299 B2 frame has but you also get Dura Ace shifters, 10 speed Dura Ace derailleurs, FSA Carbon Cranks, Alex 1600 gram aero wheels, etc. If you need any parts to outfit the frame, the S22 is a no brainer. If you are considering a set of race wheels have a look at the complete B2. For the price of a Dura Ace parts kit and a pair of Zipp wheels, you get the B2 frame for FREE.
Happy Hunting.
-SD
do you know what the s22 retails for.? and the shimano 10 spd is compatible with 9 spd stuff isn’t it? here is what i’m thinking so far. (unless the s22 will make more $$$$ sense).
1200.00 for frame. (local shop)
500-600$ for the 03 dura-ace stuff. (excelsports.com or supergo.com)
i have wheels and a vision-tech aerobar.
about $1800.00 for a sweet ride.
luke
the shimano 10 spd is compatible with 9 spd stuff isn’t it?
Yes, 7800 series derailleurs are 8,9,10 speed compatible
1200.00 for frame. (local shop)
500-600$ for the 03 dura-ace stuff. (excelsports.com or supergo.com)
have wheels and a vision-tech aerobar.
about $1800.00 for a sweet ride.
That is one sweet set up. The S22 retails for more than $1800, but then again the B2 retails for more than $1200, perhaps you should consult your local shop, perhaps they would keep the Profile Carbon X aerobars the S22 is specced with and the ALX 300 Wheelset. Again I cannot speak for your shop, or for any other retailer, but I am aware of stores that allow you to customize a “stock” bike with deletions and substitutions.
Good Luck!
-SD
felt s22 costs about 2,100 usd. http://www.racycles.com/tri/catalog/felt_s22_2943427.htm
i’m doing a similiar exercise with my LBS at the moment as I have a set of wheels I’m happy with for another year.
Still deciding if the DA frame is worth the extra 700 dollars…
Tom
I’ve read and enjoyed your review of your DA. Do you think there’s much to be gained by buying a DA frame instead of the B2. Felt must make the DA for the reason that they think it’s better and Craig Walton uses the DA frame. However, will the more aero seat post and a cut of 2lbs of the weight really make a difference to justify the extra 700 dollars. Like Luke I have a set of wheels (tri spokes) and reckon I’m better off, despite the excellent value of the B2, by going for a frame and kitting it out.
Grateful for any comments.
Paul
One thing I don’t understand in the bikesportmichigan review and in many american articles: Why are you taping all the Syntace C2 handle. Your arm never touches the bar except for the very front of it. I use the Syntace C2 without any tape, but I understand taping the front if it feels more comfortable. But taping it up to the armrests seems like a waste to me. Its not about the weight, but for me it looks terrible. Is there any reason, or do you feel like using up all the tape?
Re: “Why are you taping all the Syntace C2 handle.”
When I was riding the C2’s I would tape them back to the point where they made the bend from wide to narrow just in front of the armrests. If I was climbing hard in the saddle I’d choke up on the aero bars and hold onto them in this area so it’s nice having tape there.