I’m riding an size 55 '06 Tequilo, fits me well, I like it a lot…but it is a bit harsh in terms of ride quality, which is more noticable if I’m running deep wheels or a disc. I can get a screaming deal on a brand new '07 kestrel talon frame/fork. Also a 55…should fit me fine. If I do it, I will probably just move the parts over as my Tequilo has solid components already (DA/Ultegra mix, upgraded brakes, saddle)
Is it worth it?
Notable differences in frame quality?
Geometry issues I should be aware of?
I’m a bigger guy at 6’2, 186 and a decent cyclist so I want something with a fairly stiff bottom bracket.
The biggest difference is probably the seat angle, the Talon being a road bike first and a tri bike second. The 55cm Talon has a 73.50 seat angle, while the Tequilo is 78.0 across all sizes.
Actually, I like the airfoil that kestrel makes. However, I am totally QR for myself. I ride a seduza carbon fiber and it is fast as hell. I had a chance and looked at the tequilo and kilo. They are both tru tri bikes…whereas the talon is not. I think the other person mentioned that the talon is not a tri bike. I think personally what you need to do is take a look at the carbon fiber bikes of quintana roo, cervelo, kuota, or maybe x lab. X lab has a sweet DA mix carbon bike that is very aero for 3,000.00. Check out the QR Seduza. My seduza is smooth. I did a race today and passed like 150 people. Your problem is that your tequilo is aluminum. If you go with Kestrel, don’t waste your money on the talon unless you get the sl aero talon. Go with the airfoil.
Realize that you’re going from a dedicated tri bike to a dual purpose bike that can be rode either in a road position or about a 76 degree “multisport” position. If you are looking for a dual purpose bike then the Talon is a great choice, but not if you want a 78 degree angle bike. I swapped out my Lemond road bike and Cervelo P2K this season to simplify with a Kestrel Talon. I’ll know by the end of the season how it works out as a tri bike, but so far it’s a really great road bike.
I made that exact switch three-years ago. I’m not sure if I am faster on the Talon, but I am much happier riding and more comfortable on the Talon. The Talon’s ride quality is much better and I’m more comfortable in a road bike position.
thanks for the feedback everyone. I’ve decided against the Talon as I like to ride at about 78 degrees. I have my Tequilo saddle slammed all the way forward now and get way up on the nose.