Merida reacto never gets spoken about. The machine is a beast, fast as f**k and the most nibble bike ever. Paid an unbelievable price and always get comments on how beautiful it looks and do 60 miles on it without any discomfort.
I've actually just pulled the trigger on getting a Reacto (Rival edition in my case)! From what I've read and heard it is one of the more comfortable aero bikes. And a significant upgrade from my 8 year old entry-level Merida Scultura!
The canyon is a great value, but I just can't get past their proprietary cockpit. I love the adjustment feature, but to my knowledge, you can't get another 3rd party cockpit if you wanted one; no clip-on bar option. The aero or possibly do it all bike that I want and was missing from your list is the Factor Ostro VAM. The SL8 probably rides great, but the Ostro is so much sexier, has custom paint options and I would rather ride their latest wheels over any Roval wheels and you get to choose part sizes. The zero customization on the SL8 makes their $14K bike much more by the time you modify it with the actual setup you want; starting with a $5500 frame takes you way over $14K too with SRAM Red and nice Zipp/ENVE/Black Inc wheels.
I owned a Cannondale SystemSix and it was a blast, now I upgraded to a Cube Litening AERO c:68X SLX and the bike is not only faster but also more comfortable and a bargain in comparison to all other models listed here, also pretty light for an Aero model, 7.5kg with the Newmen 50mm wheels
Great review. I agree the Canyon is a great bike. Presently, I'm riding the Tarmac SL8 and a 2022 Cannodale Supersix Evo. The Tarmac is in a league of its own. Just a superb bike. I find the Cannondale heavier needing that extra work to wind up, but holds power and speed really well. I get a smoother ride out of the Tarmac. From those I know who have the Giant Propel, it's rated very highly. Not a fan of the Madone, as the aesthetics are just wrong. The frame looks like a really bad plumbing job and it's heavy too. I'd rate the Emonda over the Madone, as the Emonda is way more versatile and from my experience faster. Maybe the Colnago C68 could have warranted an honourable mention at least.
Damn! How can you not name Cannondale System Six, Storck Aerfast, 3T Strada, Cervelo S5 and Scott Foil RC? Kudos for mentioning the Pride but the Tarmac, Propel, Supersix and Rcr`r surely doesn`t belong in here.
Think there’s something strange here. Usually the Cannondale Evo Hi-mod and Tarmac SL8 are seen as comparable as both aero and climbing bikes and the new Propel is seen as less climbing and more aero. I believe it is also slightly heavier than the Evo and SL8. Is this correct?
cube havent changed their bikes much in the last few years and staying around the same price, and they have big issues with their carbon. 50% of their frames have failure. and i work with a company that imports them and i hate selling them.
@@blakerichardson5933I owned an old 2019 gtc attain race, had a 50km/h crash with it back in 2020 and it‘s doing just fine, also have a hpc 120 mtb and now the C:68X which is quite up to date, new 2024 Red and all the bells and whistles you get from other brands. I do think the difference is Marketing, Canyon would sell sand in the desert, the products are good but not better than Cube…
I love David, but I wonder if he is contractually obligated to never mention Factor. :) He never mentions them haha! They were either 1, 2, or 3 in every test!
David, thanks for the videos but you are increasingly appearing to have Sold Out to the big brands. If you want to talk aero, there are numerous frames which far exceed the S-Works.
Canyon and Giant are two manufacturers who actually can make a proper press fit frame. My girlfriend and I have (had) multiple canyon bikes, alloy and carbon, all press fit. Never any issue.
@@rickybarker4023 as it should, and they do. But if they don't (I own 3 bikes, trek, Canyon, Canyon with pf), then break out the specialty tools, and lots of time. 👍
Suggestion? Maybe wait a while longer and make a top 10+ video so you can add a few more brands such as Pinarello, Cervelo, BMC, Colnago, Wilier, etc. I know I missed several more. Maybe a few rim brake options that are more affordable. My choice would be the Pinarello X9 or X7 which is ~ half the cost of the Dogma X. It’s still up there in cost, but more affordable. You had some nice bikes listed but do predicable IMHO-Trek, Specialized, Canyon, Cannondale, Giant, etc. You listed one at the end you haven’t test rode so why not a few others? Remember, we are all mere mortals and an extra pound will not be noticed much. Think mere mortals here. Thanks my friend and keep up the good work.
4 of your bikes tested ate not Aero bikes. Sl8. Not Aero bike all rounder Madone or as we now know it Madonda is now an all rounder platform not an Aero platform. Super six. Not Aero again lightweight/all rounder Van rysel RCR all rounder not Aero. If you are going to do an Aero bike test. Actually TEST the Aero bikes and not the Jack's of all trades masters of none.
None are good buys, a rim brake aero for a few thousand less and Kg less makes more sense. But everyone has to have disc, that is a lot less aero when it comes to side winds.
Yea much better range of wider tires on a disc brake bike , if your not running wide tubeless you do t k ow what your missing . And rim brake wheels wear out , disc brake wheels don’t
@@saxon1376 your not exactly accurate about rim not fitting wider tyres, Trek Emonda rim fits 30 np. Also, the wider the tyre the heavier it is. Thing to note is, if a tyre is 25 mm for example, depending on pressure and weight of person and bike, will determine contact area on road. TPU tubes has lower rolling resistance than tubeless. Most bike brands are selling bike with these now and saying the bike is 200grams lighter, give is another 2 grand. Thanks. 😁 As for wearing, I have a set of vision rim, and they are going to put last me. 😁
@@saxon1376 Running 28/30 mm tl tyres on a 2018 Scott Foil Gen2 rim brake for superior overall performance. Frame fits 32mm, tested and approved. Disc wheels are wobble and not even close as aero as rim brakes, due to long, thick and way more spokes and the additional disc rotor. Braking power is stronger on disc wheels but modulation, timing and reliability is horrendous. Modern disc bike frames are sluggish due to their geometry, in particular the long chainstays and headtube.
@@Nico-jt8llbraking makes you faster into corners as you can decelerate much later. Discs have way better reliability actually in all conditions and the increased spokes on the wheels helped with stiffness and thus better acceleration. There's a reason why no more Pros use rim brakes even triathletes unless it's a pure hill climb race with competitors competing on 4kg bikes. Modern bike geometry is not because of discs but rather it's more aero. You can get climbing or endurance bike that comes with the more nimble geometry in disc options. You just have crap wheels or it being too deep if it wobbles too much in crosswinds. Nothing to do with disc or rims brakes.
5:02 The Propel has sprint wins and mountain top wins in the TDF. A true all rounder the best bike here.
doesn't come in XS for me tho
What about the BMC Teammachine R???
new 2024 scott foil ultimate...period!
Merida reacto never gets spoken about. The machine is a beast, fast as f**k and the most nibble bike ever. Paid an unbelievable price and always get comments on how beautiful it looks and do 60 miles on it without any discomfort.
Which generation?
Where is the Merida Reacto??
Easily one of the most comfortable and aero bikes around. It is bloody fast.
It’s also an absolute bargain
I love mine, definitely quick enough!
I've actually just pulled the trigger on getting a Reacto (Rival edition in my case)! From what I've read and heard it is one of the more comfortable aero bikes. And a significant upgrade from my 8 year old entry-level Merida Scultura!
My 2023 super six EVO hi mod accepts up to 34mm (inflated) tires. That’s per the manual. I’m current using GP5k AS TR 32mm that inflates to 34mm.
Nice video IMO you missed the Ribble ultra SL/SLR cheaper than all the options you included in similar spec and claimed to be as fast as most.
Nobody wants a dribble mate 😂
The canyon is a great value, but I just can't get past their proprietary cockpit. I love the adjustment feature, but to my knowledge, you can't get another 3rd party cockpit if you wanted one; no clip-on bar option. The aero or possibly do it all bike that I want and was missing from your list is the Factor Ostro VAM. The SL8 probably rides great, but the Ostro is so much sexier, has custom paint options and I would rather ride their latest wheels over any Roval wheels and you get to choose part sizes. The zero customization on the SL8 makes their $14K bike much more by the time you modify it with the actual setup you want; starting with a $5500 frame takes you way over $14K too with SRAM Red and nice Zipp/ENVE/Black Inc wheels.
Out of those shown, the Giant is a very good buy that won’t send you to food stamps.
💯 The Propel is at the UCI weight limit. Best choice of any road bike full stop.
But the hookless rims, I just couldn’t sign up for them.
No System Six?
I owned a Cannondale SystemSix and it was a blast, now I upgraded to a Cube Litening AERO c:68X SLX and the bike is not only faster but also more comfortable and a bargain in comparison to all other models listed here, also pretty light for an Aero model, 7.5kg with the Newmen 50mm wheels
You also forgot the Orbea Orca Aero ... stiff aaaand compliant. Feels fast too but not harsh. Picks up speed like crazy.
Looking forward to the next gen Aeroad from Canyon!❤ current gen is the best bike currently👍
Great review. I agree the Canyon is a great bike. Presently, I'm riding the Tarmac SL8 and a 2022 Cannodale Supersix Evo. The Tarmac is in a league of its own. Just a superb bike. I find the Cannondale heavier needing that extra work to wind up, but holds power and speed really well. I get a smoother ride out of the Tarmac. From those I know who have the Giant Propel, it's rated very highly.
Not a fan of the Madone, as the aesthetics are just wrong. The frame looks like a really bad plumbing job and it's heavy too. I'd rate the Emonda over the Madone, as the Emonda is way more versatile and from my experience faster. Maybe the Colnago C68 could have warranted an honourable mention at least.
You forget some successful and beautiful Bikes (Cervelo S5, Pinarello Dogma F, Wilier Filiante SLR, Colnago V4RS).
V4Rs is not aero at all
i would have thought youd have a reacto on here. unless they are hard to get in the UK?
Wilier Filante SLR is m,y choice.
Cervelo s5 , Pinarello Dogma , orbea orca , Bianchi Oltre , colnago v4RS , Factor ostro vam there are almost no reviews on the factor 🙂
Can you review the giant propel advanced 1pro 2024 please . Thank you.
What do you think about cinelli pressure?
I bought an old supersix evo off ebay with sram red mechanical for 800 pound it weighs 7 kg with pedals 😂😂😂
another rim brake enthousiaste.
JK
@@kevingregoire1042 indeed
gigachad bike - love the old supersix
Damn! How can you not name Cannondale System Six, Storck Aerfast, 3T Strada, Cervelo S5 and Scott Foil RC?
Kudos for mentioning the Pride but the Tarmac, Propel, Supersix and Rcr`r surely doesn`t belong in here.
Think there’s something strange here. Usually the Cannondale Evo Hi-mod and Tarmac SL8 are seen as comparable as both aero and climbing bikes and the new Propel is seen as less climbing and more aero. I believe it is also slightly heavier than the Evo and SL8. Is this correct?
I think it might be worth putting also Canyon Ultimate SLX 9 which it light and has aero wheels as Tarmac and Giant.
Why does cube hardly ever get mentioned, can’t be beat for value for the performance
cube havent changed their bikes much in the last few years and staying around the same price, and they have big issues with their carbon. 50% of their frames have failure. and i work with a company that imports them and i hate selling them.
@@blakerichardson5933I owned an old 2019 gtc attain race, had a 50km/h crash with it back in 2020 and it‘s doing just fine, also have a hpc 120 mtb and now the C:68X which is quite up to date, new 2024 Red and all the bells and whistles you get from other brands. I do think the difference is Marketing, Canyon would sell sand in the desert, the products are good but not better than Cube…
I wonder if they have tested the Bross Zenith Plume...
cervelo s5 not included?
Haven't ridden it sadly :(
You forgot so many, Felt AR, and one of my favorite, the Ridley Noah, which is crazy fast, and climbs extremely well as well.👊😎🚴🏻
What about scott addict or foil?
Nice video but when comes the review about the Tarmac sl8 pro? Every TH-camr reviews the S works but nobody the "pro" version
Any particular reason the Cervelo S5 doesn't make it in to your top 6?
Not had the chance to ride one sadly
You really should have the Factor patrol Van on this list
Elves Falath Evo seem like Simplon Pride
1:00 what's that brothaa? Yeeeyy. What's that brothaa? (Loose cables on aero road bike in 2024) 😂
Kinda surprised the BMC R01 didn’t make the cut! 😮
Waiting for a new System6.
Great video
BMC Roadmachine 😊
Not an aero race bike
Best aero bike 2020 Fuji Transonic Rim Brake 😉
V4RS??
All above 5k. I am happy with my aero Caad 13 Di2 which I got 40% off.
BMC Teammachine R 😉🇨🇭
E N V E. Melee 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
May be an optical illusion due to camera angle but it always looks like you’re using ultra narrow handlebars.
Follow the money..
Simply Simplon!😅
I love David, but I wonder if he is contractually obligated to never mention Factor. :) He never mentions them haha! They were either 1, 2, or 3 in every test!
I wish they send me their bikes to test, I have asked!
My choice if money wasn’t a problem, Bianchi Oltre RC
These bikes seem to be the usual big money suspects...
David, thanks for the videos but you are increasingly appearing to have Sold Out to the big brands. If you want to talk aero, there are numerous frames which far exceed the S-Works.
First. I can't see why anyone wouldn't buy an Aero bike. Pass on the press fit Canyons and Giants, and hookless though.
Canyon and Giant are two manufacturers who actually can make a proper press fit frame. My girlfriend and I have (had) multiple canyon bikes, alloy and carbon, all press fit. Never any issue.
@@grvl307I agree. There is nothing to worry about high quality press fit.
I didn’t buy an aero bike, as they are more expensive compared to their non-aero cousin of the same brand, for no good reason at all.
Got 3600 miles on my giant defy press fit bb. Still going strong.
@@rickybarker4023 as it should, and they do. But if they don't (I own 3 bikes, trek, Canyon, Canyon with pf), then break out the specialty tools, and lots of time. 👍
Suggestion? Maybe wait a while longer and make a top 10+ video so you can add a few more brands such as Pinarello, Cervelo, BMC, Colnago, Wilier, etc. I know I missed several more. Maybe a few rim brake options that are more affordable. My choice would be the Pinarello X9 or X7 which is ~ half the cost of the Dogma X. It’s still up there in cost, but more affordable. You had some nice bikes listed but do predicable IMHO-Trek, Specialized, Canyon, Cannondale, Giant, etc. You listed one at the end you haven’t test rode so why not a few others? Remember, we are all mere mortals and an extra pound will not be noticed much. Think mere mortals here. Thanks my friend and keep up the good work.
I went a cheap nice bike
Pinarello
Handsling
Ribble
Love your vids but this one i gave a miss. Heard far to much about sl8s and propels to last a lifetime
Wtf is a Tarmac doing in this aero category!?!? 🤦♂️
i personally think the canyon aeroroad is the worst looking aero bike
4 of your bikes tested ate not Aero bikes. Sl8. Not Aero bike all rounder
Madone or as we now know it Madonda is now an all rounder platform not an Aero platform.
Super six. Not Aero again lightweight/all rounder
Van rysel RCR all rounder not Aero.
If you are going to do an Aero bike test. Actually TEST the Aero bikes and not the Jack's of all trades masters of none.
Don’t even include the Cervelo S5 makes this list nonsense sadly
@@einundsiebenziger5488 yeah best not to include the TDF winning bike
None are good buys, a rim brake aero for a few thousand less and Kg less makes more sense. But everyone has to have disc, that is a lot less aero when it comes to side winds.
Yea much better range of wider tires on a disc brake bike , if your not running wide tubeless you do t k ow what your missing .
And rim brake wheels wear out , disc brake wheels don’t
@@saxon1376 your not exactly accurate about rim not fitting wider tyres, Trek Emonda rim fits 30 np. Also, the wider the tyre the heavier it is. Thing to note is, if a tyre is 25 mm for example, depending on pressure and weight of person and bike, will determine contact area on road. TPU tubes has lower rolling resistance than tubeless. Most bike brands are selling bike with these now and saying the bike is 200grams lighter, give is another 2 grand. Thanks. 😁 As for wearing, I have a set of vision rim, and they are going to put last me. 😁
@@saxon1376 Running 28/30 mm tl tyres on a 2018 Scott Foil Gen2 rim brake for superior overall performance. Frame fits 32mm, tested and approved.
Disc wheels are wobble and not even close as aero as rim brakes, due to long, thick and way more spokes and the additional disc rotor. Braking power is stronger on disc wheels but modulation, timing and reliability is horrendous.
Modern disc bike frames are sluggish due to their geometry, in particular the long chainstays and headtube.
@@Nico-jt8llbraking makes you faster into corners as you can decelerate much later. Discs have way better reliability actually in all conditions and the increased spokes on the wheels helped with stiffness and thus better acceleration. There's a reason why no more Pros use rim brakes even triathletes unless it's a pure hill climb race with competitors competing on 4kg bikes.
Modern bike geometry is not because of discs but rather it's more aero. You can get climbing or endurance bike that comes with the more nimble geometry in disc options.
You just have crap wheels or it being too deep if it wobbles too much in crosswinds. Nothing to do with disc or rims brakes.
Uhh, Orca Aero....