Lighten Up: A Dream Bike

Published October 24, 2012 03:03PM

Shed grams while upping your bike’s capabilities with parts from this dream build.

This article was originally published in the Sep/Oct 2012 issue of Inside Triathlon magazine.

Aerodynamics is king in the world of triathlon bikes, and functionality is the second priority. But the thrill of riding a light bike is unmistakable. We set out to build the ultimate bike that satisfies all three of these requirements. Forget disposable waifs and one-offs; only dependable components that can make your bike faster, lighter and more fun to ride made the cut.

Dash Tri.7 saddle, 80.5g
At a fraction of the weight of other anatomical tri saddles, the massive cut-out allows for pressure to be isolated on the sit bones, even while in an extremely low aerodynamic position. Dashcycles.com, $465

Sram XG 1090 X-Dome cassette 11-23, 137g
Nine of the 10 cogs in Sram’s new marquee cassette are machined from a single piece of steel, just like its predecessor. Unique elastomer rings between each cog help keep shifting quiet and quick. Sram.com, $335

Sram’s redesigned Red front derailleur does not just move side-to-side as it shifts like a traditionally designed derailleur. Instead it rotates slightly, eliminating chain rub and enabling remarkably fast and reliable gear changes. The new rear derailleur shaves 8 grams off of the previous design. Shift performance feels just as crisp and sharp as original Red. Sram.com, $137 | $358

KMC X10SL-Ti Chain, 236.8g
Hollow pins, bored inner plates and bored outer plates make the X10SL-Ti lighter than chains from the Big Three component manufacturers. Kmcchain.us, $68

Rotor 3D+ SRM crank, 753.5g
Not only is the SRM Rotor 3D+ one of the lightest power meters available, but it also is exceptionally accurate—only 2 percent error—and reliable as well. The crank-based system allows athletes to use any wheel for racing or training. Srm.de, $2,945

Parlee TTi, 2,361.2g (frame, fork, seat post and brakes)
Functionally elegant design is the hallmark of the Massachusetts-based frame builder, and the TTi carries on that tradition. Deep airfoil tubes are complemented by a new fork with an integrated rear-facing V-brake tucked behind the blades. Offered in two different geometric styles—one for aggressive positions, another for more conservative positions—the TTi is capable of morphing to many different riding styles. Standard stem-and-steerer front end, accessible brakes and smooth cable routing make the TTi dependable and reliable. Parleecycles.com, $3,500

SRAM 900 TT shifters, 137g
Sram’s return-to-center shifters have gained popularity for their ergonomics, but the 900 TT shifters reign supreme for weight-conscious athletes. The large carbon levers are easy to grip, making shifts confident and consistent. Sram.com, $175

Hed Corsair aerobar, 581.2g
The Corsair is a two-piece clip-on aerobar and basebar combination, allowing for more adjustability than most one-piece bars. Despite the modular design, the Corsair is extremely light and aerodynamic. And the truly integrated brake levers create an ergonomic grip. Hedcycling.com, $950

Zipp SLSpeed stem, 102.1g
Although many stems appear to be made of carbon, most rely on a bulky metal insert for strength. The SLSpeed is carbon throughout, and uses titanium hardware and faceplate. Zipp.com, $325

Mad Fiber Clincher Road, 1,328g
Tubulars are universally lighter than clinchers, but Mad Fiber has constructed a pair with a weight to rival all but the most extreme tubies. Outstanding stiffness further helps these launch out of the gate. Madfiber.com, $2,900

Vittoria Open Corsa EVO CX tire, 215g
This ultra-supple tire is not only one of the lightest, but also boasts exceptionally low rolling resistance, although only moderate puncture protection. Vittoria.com, $63

Bontrager XXX Latex tube, 69.8g
Latex tubes save a gram or two over typical butyl alternatives, but the real benefit is reduced rolling resistance. Bontrager.com, $20

Zipp Carbon Fiber Bottle Cage, 23.1g
Sufficiently robust to use on the frame or between the aerobars, this minimalistic cage puts a solid squeeze on a bottle. Zipp.com, $60

Enduro XD-15 BB30 bearings, 45.9g
Lightweight and smooth, the angular contact races result in reduced rolling resistance and increased durability. Endurobearings.com, $200