Argon 18 E-114

Price Paid:  $0.00 at SBR Multisports

Model Year:
2007

Bike Setup:
SRAM Red throughout. Zipp 606. Speedplay Light Action pedals.

Summary:
Wow! What an amazing bike! This is my first full carbon and tri-specific bike, but I didn't expect this much difference in speed and performance. It accelerates instantly and effortlessly, and there seems to be no limitation as to how fast you can go with this bike. Comparing to E-114, I feel like I convert only 60% or so of my effort into speed on my road bikes. And I have two Pinarellos. I know we cannot compare apples and oranges, but E-114 is as fast as it is beautiful to look at. I must also add how easy the transition was from the road bikes to E-114. The bike is very stable and easy to handle even with Zipp 606 deep rims in cross wind. Simply amazing. Well conceived and flawlessly executed bike. No wonder it received two design awards.

Strengths:
Very fast, easy to handle and comfortable. Not too heavy for a TT bike. Mine is just 8Kg. The bike is flexible for small adjustments. It climbs hills surprisingly well.

Weaknesses:
An optional 'J' bend extension bars would be a nice addition. The masking cap for the base bar flew off while I was riding. It is a cosmetic part and nothing serious. BUT Bruno at Argon 18 promised to send me a replacement free of charge. (I live in Japan where Argon 18 bikes are rarely seen.) Good customer service, Argon 18!

Similar Products Used:
none.

Price Paid:  $5000.00 at Bikes & Beyond

Model Year:
2007

Favorite Ride:
The E-114

Bike Setup:
Keo Carbon Clipless, Hed Jet 50's with a power tap for training and Zipp 404's for racing. The Giro Aero helmet made an amazing difference.

Summary:
This is an amazing machine built for speed. As soon as I was dialed in on this bike it just felt like it was a part of me. I was strong on the bike before but now when I ride this one with a group of triathletes nobody stays with me even if they are drafting... Once set up the difference is amazing. I used to ride my Madone with T2 Cobra Aero bars bolted on but the difference on this tri specific bike is unreal, especially after you get off the bike and on to the run.

Strengths:
Feels solid, power transfer is great, Very light and responsive. It feels like I am driving a rocket (which has become the nickname for the bike). "Are you bringing the rocket out?"

Weaknesses:
It would be nice to move the Aero bars more laterally if you had to for people with wider shoulders.

Similar Products Used:
Cervelo P3, Trek TTX, Argon E 112, Argon Mercury.