The 2005 P3SL is factory stocked with FSA and Dura Ace. Has anyone changed the crankset to DA? If so, any comments? Are there any other parts that should be changed (upgraded), if so, which ones and why?
Comments are appreciated as this is my first TriBike and I am trying to make the best decisions I can while negotiating with the bike store.
I like the component spec of the P3Sl out of the box. Specifically, the aerobars and saddle are excellent (Selle Italia T1 private Cervelo version, Visiontech cockpit), the new (for 2005) brake calipers are truly excellent and the drivetrain is intelligently spec’d for excellent performance and value.
As you look at the sginificant cost of changing the crank from the FSA CArbon Rpo Team Issue to a Shimano Dura-Ace 7800 series you have to ask yourself, “What is the benefit?”
In my book the primary benefit is better front shifting. The Dura-Ace SG-X chainrings and slightly stiffer crank spider on the Dura-Ace crank does make a quicker (feeling) and quieter front shift, especially from small ring up to large. However, the difference is minor. That said, the second qustion you have to ask yourself is, “Is the difference worth the cost to me?” If you don;t mind partig with a few additional hundred bucks- go for it. If not, you will never miss it. I say save the cash and stick with the spec once the crank length and cockpit are configured to fit you correctly.
I would upgrade the brake levers to something a little more refined than the Dia-Compe 188’s that were being spec’ed early on this year. The 188 is a fine brake lever that had its day. Even Lance Armstrong used the venerable 188 in the Tour de France early on. My issue with the lever is that other, better brake levers have come out since. The newer levers are a good margin lighter, smaller and even nicer looking. My favorite is the controversial FSA “crab claw” brake lever, but there are some nice Blackwell Research levers and quite a few others. For less than $100 this is a reasonable upgrade to the original component spec.
Check out the chain on the bike and lobby for a genuine Shimano brand chain if not spec’d on the bike out of the box. In my opinion the Shimano chains are a cut above some original equipment manufacturer 10 speed chains and seem to last longer if correctly installed and maintained.
Beyond that I think the component spec is right on the money: Good bang for the buck. I love the P3Sl and give it no short shift to the P3 carbon. In my mind, this is the best tri bike out there if it fits you correctly and you like a low head tube aero bike.
Good luck- enjoy it!
thanks much. i appreciate your response - written so well and informative to boot.