subject: Giant Tcradvanced 0 2012 [print this page] The frame is the heart of the matter and generally should be the major topic for discussion here. Butthe introduction ofa new electronic gear shifting system deems thatthe frame and all its fine features are relegateda little lower down the page.
When I hear a statement like this xxx will change bicycle drive trains forever, it sounds so far-fetched my tendency is to disbelieve it. In the case of Shimano Di2, we had better take some notice.
Why is this?
In simple terms, Di2 is not just electronic assistance to change gears, but a sophisticated computer system to determine the optimum time to change, then exactly how best to change given the particular ratios and load. And it does this simply and reliably in a split second, change after change, after change, to a level unobtainable with a mechanical system.
Because there is a computer processor in each of the front and rear changers, they are able to co-ordinate changes in a way that we simply cannot do mechanically. It is not power assistance, but a whole new sophisticated gear change system, that can factor in all known variables, and change reliably EVERY time. It will never go out of adjustment. Di2 is short for Digital Integrated Intelligence.
Also because the levers do not have to incorporate a sizeable gear change mechanism, the levers can be much more refined, and made to be ergonomically ideal, something that has not been previously possible.
With the new Di2 electronic shift technology, shifting is even easier and more precise, asjust a soft touch, similar to that ofa computer mouse,is sufficient for the rear or frontderailleur to select thedesired gear. Current users of Shimano equipped bikeswill find their use instinctiveasthe shift buttons are in the same place asregular STI levers. A really nice feature with Di2 is that it will suit many riders with smaller hands, particularly women as the distance betweenthe lever and the handlebar is adjustable, so braking and gear shiftingis comfortable and safely within reach.
This change system is the beginning of a whole new era in bicycle drive trains. No longer are intricate mechanical adjustments necessary. Gone are the trips to the local (hopefully) bike shop for a quick adjustment. Di2 simply does not go out of adjustment, never! If you crash, or replace wheels, the necessary repairs can be carried out, then, the system can be put into adjustment mode to readjust itself. Yes, the Di2 system incorporates an adjustment mode, that will allow the system to self-adjust.yes, self-adjust.to allow for any changes that may have been brought about.
In terms of performance, Di2 will immediately allow you to improve to a degree that seemed impossible. Imagine climbing a steep incline, then being able to shift the front derailleur under full load. There is no need to back off at all. In a bunch, there need be no back-off in a sprint for fear of a missed shift, the computerized system will simply not allow it, so you are able to concentrate solely on what is required to optimize performance, some may call it an unfair advantage but unless they have tried Di2 they simply wont realize.
The Di2 system has been used in the worlds toughest competitions such as the Tour de France and has proved to be very reliable with features such as the automaticrealigning ensuring that gear shifts always remain crisp and precise. Thelightweight battery is weatherproof and quite robust andhas a range of at least 2000kmandcan be recharged in just 90 minutes. On this point, the battery life is incredible, a single charge can easily last 6 months or more. Electronic shifting,or Di2 as Shimano calls it is the way of the future, but it is here now andwhen you consider the overall quality of this TCRAdvanced 0one begins to wonder if we will sell any bikes other than this one. This bike is a real game changer, a step out of the square.
A conceptdreamtabout for many years, theneventuallyavailable onlytoProfessional riders and the wealthy.....ntil now! But be warned, one decent ride, and you will be hooked. It is just that good!Now all thatexcitement is out of the way, lets get to the heart of the matter, the frame.
Giant produce a custom composite materialusing high performance T-700 raw carbon fibre which isthen hand laid and mouldedina one piece monocoque to produce an extremely lightweight, compliant and yetvery stiff racing frame.The varioustubing shapes and dimensions are all for specific reasonswith stunningperformance as the end goal. The verypronounced shapes in the 2012 frames such as the the rectangular shaped down-tubeand oversized top-tube which work in unison with the oversize head-tube to provide superior front end lateral and torsional steering precision and stability for real "point and shoot" type handling.
Theoversize rectangular down-tube combines with the massively oversize bottom bracketand chain-stays for further lateral rigidity under pedalling torque meaning none of your valuable effort is lost through frame flex. The overall feel of a 2012Advanced bike is rock solid, further enhanced by the tapered front fork steerer tube which is supported at the lower end by a massive 1 1/2" diameter bearing and at the top by a 1 1/4" both of which are much bigger and sturdier than the regular 1 1/8" bearings found in most bikes. These larger bearings housed within the oversized head tube and supported by the rectangular down-tube and oversize top-tube combined with the 1 1/4" head-stem and oversize handlebars provides the rider a feeling of confidence and control never previously experienced.
This really is an exceptional frame and when fitted with the Ultegra Di2 the result is an amazing bike. For those of us that have been around the bike scene for a while, bikes with weight and features like this one, are the bikes that will get talked about for years to come. This will be the bike that sets the benchmark for the future. A top notch frame with Di2 and a stack of quality components and it is under $4000! It will be a tough act to follow.
Best to get one now, and be one of the ones leading the way. Leave the following to someone else.
