Hi all,
I recently went for a ‘fit-before-you-buy’ bike fit, as I’m currently searching for an aero road bike for sprint triathlons.
Of the bikes within my budget, I was recommended the Aria as a ‘perfect fit’ and the Propel Advanced 2 as a ‘good fit’.
Before I went for the fit, the Propel was in my short list as the aero data is very compelling.
[https://www-tour–magazin-de.translate.goog/rennraeder/aktuelles/rad-test-aero-gegen-leichtbau-20-top-renner-im-grossen-vergleichstest/?\_x\_tr\_sl=de&\_x\_tr\_tl=en&\_x\_tr\_hl=en-US&\_x\_tr\_pto=wapp&\_x\_tr\_hist=true](https://www-tour–magazin-de.translate.goog/rennraeder/aktuelles/rad-test-aero-gegen-leichtbau-20-top-renner-im-grossen-vergleichstest/?_x_tr_sl=de&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=en-US&_x_tr_pto=wapp&_x_tr_hist=true)
I realise this test is for the higher tier model of the Propel, however the geometries are the same, and once the wheels are upgraded (which I plan to eventually do) the difference between the two is minimal.
However, I understand that body position is \~80% of the equation when it comes to aero, and my bike fitter reasons that there’d be greater scope for finding an optimum position on the Aria, which would outweigh the difference in frame drag.
I’m genuinely torn between making a decision. It’s difficult to find much info on the Aria, whereas the Propel seems to be widely regarded as a really good bike.
The Aria also doesn’t have an integrated bar, which looks very nice and fast on the Propel, but I’m not sure if it’s realistic for me to think I’d be able work on it for maintenance myself. This would also be a bit more advantageous if I was to travel abroad for races, which I plan.
Please help me make a decision. The Propel seems like a safe bet in terms of buying a fast bike, but it’s the lack of info and data on the Aria which is holding me back.
The Aria also seems to be about £700/$900 less than the propel, which could go towards wheels.
Many thanks for your time if you made it this far, and I appreciate any insights you may have.
by INNTW