Giant Bicycle Inc. TCR Elite 1

Price Paid:  $0.00 at Westchester Wheels

Favorite Ride:
Salt Creek , and Lake Front

Bike Setup:
Full Ultegra,Campy Super Record Seat Post,WTB Laser V saddle,Peddles with toe clips.

Summary:
Got a really good deal on this bike from the fine staff at Westchester Wheels.I was looking for something quicker than my steel frame Raleigh, without giving up too much in comfort.I ride primarily for fitness, and 45 minutes to an hour on this bike is an enjoyable workout.

Strengths:
Light,Nimble,Fast.Very good looks.A little over 19 lbs (55cm) minus reflectors.Super components for this price.

Weaknesses:
Italia saddle made me sorry I bought this bike initially. Swapped it for a Laser V. Major improvement .Giant's OCR 2 comes with a stock saddle, much cushier than the more expensive Italia, also.

Similar Products Used:
Raleigh Super Record,Miyata 912,Jamis Qwest, Cannondale and Trek

Price Paid:  $2300.00 at Mountain City Cycle

Favorite Ride:
CT. river valley starting in Ellington

Bike Setup:
The elite comes with ultegra group and Mavic wheels and hubs. Giant carbon fork, seat post, stem, and rear triangle. The aluminum frame is the same as the regular TCR. The only thing I don't like about the components is the triple ring.

Summary:
I ended up with this bike because of my hard to fit biuld. I have very long legs and arms with a very short torso. The relaxed fit of the elite fit me to a T. The fact that the carbon fork and rear triangle softened up the ride were a big plus. Our rides are usually 20 to 35 miles and the comfort level throughout the ride is something I've never experienced before. For all its comfort the response and cornering are top notch. The elite is so lite that the exceleration is quick and it climbs like a goat. I love this bike.

Strengths:
The ride and handling are it's main strengths. The components and overall quality for the money can't be beat.

Weaknesses:
The brake pads are way to soft. I've been on steep decents where I didn't think I could stop at the end. I'll swap them out. The 700 by 25 tires are a little spongey but I'm getting use to the ride.

Similar Products Used:
Gunner steel, 105 componets.