Im looking into buying a new tri bike, So far, I have tried a dual ($1,000) a talon ($1,200) and a K-factor ($1,600) Assuming all of these bikes fit me, is there anything about the K-Factor that is worth an extra $400-600? I would love input from anybody who has had experience with any of these bikes, especially the k-factor. Thanks.
“As it turns out, what you have is less important than what you do with it.” -Bernd Heinrich
Your quote says it all. Go with the Dual. Nothing against the K-Factor. I just bought one myself. However, I just want to make sure you’re in line with Mr. Heinrich!
The prices you list are for framesets, right. Consider also the components that are used to build the bike before you decide. All things being equal (except dollars) pick the bike with the best ‘feel’ as you will be spending a great deal of time on that bike. There can be a great deal of disparity in ‘feel’ from rider to rider.
no, the prices are for complete bikes that I have been quoted from local shops, I know these folks so they are offering me good deals.
i have the k-factor. nice bike, full carbon. i am not sure the duel is full carbon? i was able to get the best fit and aggresive fit on the k-factor. go with the one that fits you best for the type of riding you want to do. aggresive position, comfort that sort of thing. the k-factor fully built is a nice bike for the money. i swapped the crankset for a DA and everything else is more than fine. the felt s-22 is a nice ride also.
Tom D has a good review of the k factor on his site. I have had one since the beginning of last year and have been very happy with it. I think it is much cooler looking than the dual or the talon which is likely the most important thing.
Not sure about the dual, but the K-Factors and Talons usual sell for ~$2100, so you’re getting an outrageous deal. As other’s have mentioned, buy what fits best.
I just got a K-factor and love it…
I tested a K-factor and a Talon, ended up getting the Talon. I liked the feel of both, but went with the Talon for versatility- I’m using drops w/ clip-ons for IMoo, then will convert the Talon to full aero to race shorter next year. Honestly, it came down to $- I couldn’t pass up a full carbon bike w/ full Ultegra for $1650. Looking at the deal you’re getting, I’d say go for the Talon and get some kick-ass wheels.
Well I would consider several things. I am assuming that fit is NOT an issue on those 3 bikes.
- Components: do they come with the same components? If yes then the price diff is “simply” the frame. If some components are different, they it could explain some of the price diff such as Shimano 105 vs. 105/Ultegra Mix vs. Ultegra for example? Does it matter to you?
- “Comfort/steepness”: Maybe one bike is steeper than the other and this what you are looking for or maybe you are looking for the opposite and a bit more comfort
- Look/Feel… Would you have a bigger smile on the Kuota?
- If you save $400/$600, maybe you can use that money for some race wheels or some other fancy things instead?
Cheers,
Fred.
Like Chris said, here’s a pretty thorough write up:
http://www.bikesportmichigan.com/reviews/kfactor.shtml
I’ve seen the black/white frame in person and it looks pretty swank when you slap a set of race wheels on it.