After growing up a swimmer and taking up running after college I finally took up cycling last year and ended up competing in several short triathlons, including an Olympic distance. Since then I’ve seriously lusted for a TT/tri bike and after getting mortgage refinance and tax issues out of the way I’m ready to pull the trigger on one. A Cervelo P2C has been at the top of my list, but I want to maintain an open mind.
A couple weeks ago I spent the better part of a day getting fitted at Davis Wheelworks and had the opportunity to try out two bikes, a Kestrel Airfoil and a 2007 Felt B2, marked down to $3000. I much preferred the Felt to the Kestrel. The two other bikes on the list to try were a Kuota K-Factor SL and a Cervelo P2C. Unfortuntely, there was no P2C available in my size to try out. The plan was to come back when one became available, but that will not occur until at least mid-June (which I’ve heard is a common problem). I had hoped to have a bike by the time the season started, which could be next month, and I have the Vineman 70.3 in late July. From what I’ve heard about the wait for Cervelos I could still be waiting come July.
I really liked the Felt. My positioning was steep and low, with no spacers. The P2C appears to have a slightly longer headtube (10 mm longer). I’m unsure whether 10mm is significant, but if I’m comfortable riding lower, perhaps the Felt is a better fit for me (the P3C, which has a lower stack is outside my price range). Having read the literature, the two bikes seem roughly equivalent and the differences nit-picky. The Felt is a beautiful bike, with its matte-black carbon finish, super-narrow profile, and clean cable routing and I liked the way it rode and handled. I feel I should at least try the P2C, but I’m unsure whether the wait is worth it. Even if I forego trying the P2C, I would still try the Kuota.
Is it worth waiting for the P2C?
Ken
I have a P2C, and really like it. But it isn’t like the B2 is a bad bike. I came from a 5 year old aluminum frame that beat the hell out of me, and I have been most pleasantly surprised with ride quality on the P2C. I thought there would be a slight difference, but not this much. But the B2 would ride very comfortably as well I bet compared to my old aluminum frame. If it were me in your situation, I would go with the Felt. You know it fit you, you liked it, and by the time the P2C comes in, the 2007 B2 is probably no longer going to be around. The other thing to keep in mind is the B2 has wheels that are closer to a race wheel then what comes with the P2C, so if your budget doesn’t include wheels, another thing to keep in mind.
Are there any other triathletes in your area with a P2C or even a P2? If so, see if you can take their bike for a spin. I know that it won’t be fitted for you, but it may give you a sense of what to expect.
My LBS had an adjustable bike on a trainer. They adjust all of the tube lengths to mimic the angles of various frames. When i was shopping for a bike they set this adjustable bike up in a number of different configurations for me to try. I was only on the trainer, but it gave me a really good sense of what each bike set up would feel like for my body size. It gave me a sense of confidence in purchasing my P2 would actually being able to take the bike out for a ride. Check around to see if one of your LBS offers this service.
FYI, when I purchased my P2 I had to wait and make due with my old bike until it arrived. In the end, it was well worth the wait.
I just sold my '07 B2 as I had the luxury of owning and riding both an '07 P2C and '07 B2. The Felt is very aesthetically pleasing but after that, I cannot say the bike is comparable to the P2C. I found the ride of the B2 to be much harsher and this comparison was made utilizing the same wheels (Hed Jet 60/90) and riding on the same surface/roads. I tried very hard to like the B2 more so that I could find a reason to keep only the B2 and sell the P2C. I couldn’t though therefore I sold the B2 in favor of the P2C. Prior to these bikes I also owned a QR Lucero and I have to say I liked the ride quality of the Lucero more than the B2 also. What size Felt did you test ride? I was set up on both a 54 Felt B2 and 54 P2C comfortably despite the difference in head tube lengths. If your LBS doesn’t have a P2C in stock you always have the option of mail ordering. If you can find a P2C Ultegra build in your size than you will have $500 left over as compared to what you’d be buying the B2 for. I can think of alot that I can do with $500.
i agree with p2c craig. the felt ride is much harsher compared to the p2c. the felt does look better. whats more important to you ride quality or looks? i agree the felt looks better
You got fitted and have a list of bikes that will work for you. Your way ahead of the game. Get what you want. Take all the time you need. If you super dig the Felt only an idiot would tell you it sucks but if your really want to check out the P2C wait. It’s a big buy, don’t rush it. In the end you will have a great bike that fits your body and your vibe. Win win.
Relative to comparing bikes, fit differences as well as wheels/tire/inflation will change the perception considerably. Make sure you’re comparing apples to apples.