Note - new Covid + Brexit price now 4200. In the end I was stuck between this and the equivalent Defy. The speed focus, extra .5KG saved plus a power meter swung the deal, and all things considered very happy. The Defy a great bike but the 34/34 combo even a little too easy for me and I tend to spin out on the flat. Rides like a hammer out the gate with almost zero setup. The frame is not quite Defy compliance, but given the focus, is not meant to be. I read it's much closer to the enduro than it used to be. I have no issues with the cables, which gives more stem versatility and the wheels are super sweet. The Garmin mounts a nice touch but lack of tubeless kit a little tight at this price. I also find the short seat just fine, nose down a tad. Improvements? Well, I have the ML frame, being 6ft and 31 inside leg, and following the chart ML is right. But TBH it feels a little short in the cockpit - I could have gone L. Will get used to it, or buy a longer stem. Gear ratios could do with some improvement. It's setup for speed, but reality it's going to be bought by the enthusiastic amateur. This means the 52/36 and 11-30 will be a struggle for most over 12 to 15%. The semi-compact chainring is fine, but a 11-32 would have given more choices. But - with a short rear derailleur your max option is the 30 (although I read you can push to a 32). Just by fitting a factory medium cage they could have given more out of the box versatility, even if just to swap out the existing cassette for a 32 for longer steeper rides. In the end - this and the Defy both great deals - with the Defy you save 200 but lose a power meter and gain weight, with this you have a lightweight weekend brag race ready bike with top spec kit throughout. Oh - and the colour - delicious. Black from afar, exotic up close.
It's a gorgeous looking bike, but I'm looking forward to your opinion on compliance/ride quality. If it's as good as the Defy Advanced, they're on to a winner. My Chinese Tarmac SL6 is beautifully made but the deep-section seatpost has no discernable compliance.
Living in 🇹🇼 now over 3y and I just bought my first Giant, exactly this one. I'm impressed by the price difference between TW and Europe, didn't expected it that pricey in 🇬🇧.
@@normen416 definitely. High end bikes like giant or many other brands like specialized is made in Taiwan. Groupsets here are also cheaper then those in Japan, basically just kinda cheaper then other coutries does.
Giant makes thier high-end bike inTaiwan and sells lowest price inTaiwan even sram also besides thier factory. I buy a tcr advanced sl with Sram Rival and SLR1Wheele and soon the total price is about 6,500 USD,less price but high performance.
Great video! Giant always chooses a complicated route for internal cables to make the the bike aero. Not a big fan of the cables being channelled into the top of the down tube. In my 2015 Giant propel the cable is routed on the top of the top tube!
I have a propel as well. Horrible routing. After spending 12 hours recabling I just drilled out the top cap and ran a full cable housing from bar to derailleur. Abysmal design.
Love this bike and actually have the Advanced SL 2021. Just one correction at 9:19, you can't choose any stem you like unfortunately, Giant's steerer tube is 1 1/4" on top, which limits the stem selection to very few options... Keep up the great job David, love your channel!
I have tcr advnaced 1 for already 2 years 14k done. I agree in general TCRs are very economical wrt components overall ok quality. But comparing to some Italian brands or even German it lacks attention to detail and some passion. Pay attention it is not the stiffest neither if you take XL frame. Something like Andriod phones -- more economical almost the same but lacks the finish -- that's my 2 cents. Would I buy it again after all experience, maybe no if I had bigger budget.
Bigger tyre clearance is just better all around. We aren't all built like pro cyclists, I'm no hulk but still weigh over 90kg so having a bike that can take fatter tyres just makes for more comfortable riding and makes us more likely to get out more
Lovely looking bike I think! The weight is too much though and cable routing is terrible imo! I want to like disc brakes, but more money for a bike that is 1kg heavier than what I have now, why would anyone upgrade? I think this is the dilemma facing many serious riders!
Have my eye on this bike. Probably the closest bike on the market that rivals the Tarmac Expert Disc SL6... which is what I ride...and want to move on from for a smaller frame.
Excellent review. Can’t imagine how giant address almost everything a cyclist needs, no additional money need to spend on accessories like computer mount or power meter. It also have great and smooth wheels. Excellent price to value ratio!
@@Kansloos you may want to see it in person (i havent), but ive recently rode the blue 2020 bike and its a lot prettier than on pictures. Im assuming the neptune will be very colorful in the sun
@@Kansloos I love it personally. It will be very colourful in the summer months and is something different from the usual matt blacks and white colours. This just my personal preference though. Have a look at the colours in real life because photos never do them any justice
@@austintinoC00l Yep colors are very personal preference, i downloaded the PDF from the Giant site and zoomed in on the bike it looks better then, but it think you're right with these metallic colors you have to see them in person and with different lighting.
@@Kansloos I don't know why the bike manufacturers are limiting us to 1 colour per trim level. They're using the same frame across various trim levels so why not allow us a choice of the 3 or 4 colours each frame comes in anyway
Excellent review. This is a GREAT bike for sure. I know you are paying for the Ultegra group set and wheels so my question is does this TCR have the same frame carbon fiber as the lesser expensive TCR's ? Thanks again for the review.
So true. They push this disc nonsence like 'no headphone jack' on new smartphones. At least they give ability to choose. Ah and round seattube is nice also unlike aero bullshit proprietary seatposts, where you are limited in setback options.
Hi David, Are you planning to put up a new review of the bike? I’m still comparing against the Emonda and wanted to see a little more before deciding. Thanks!
david arthur thanks for checking hopefully they do. Still not convinced and LBS isn’t either, heard mixed reports. Rate the wheels but bit of a dinosaur with good old tubes!
Thanks! This test bike did but I’m not sure about shop bought bikes, I’m sure they could sort one out for you, but I would have to ask Giant to be 100%
Hookless rims won’t take most tires, which is a bit of an issue. A Canyon Ultimate CF SL Disc 8.0 is 8.6 kg’s for £2,399 and still have some cash to buy a nice set of carbon wheels from Hunt that will make the bike even lighter.
David Arthur - Just Ride Bikes The HUNT 33 CARBON AERO DISC WHEELSET, weigh about 1,340 grams, not seeing they’re hookless in the spec. The DT Swiss P 1800 Spline that come with the Canyon CF SL Disc 8.0 weigh about 1,680 gram, so a saving of about 300 grams. Just numbers off the websites so not saying they’re carved in Stone.
This is a lovely looking bike, but for that sort of money i would want much cleaner cable routing. You get better cable routing on bikes that cost much less money
david arthur i think you’ll love it. I had both previous versions. They keep changing the design I see. first generation was outside of the crank. I dropped my chain and ripped the cover off and everything under the cover since there are cables tied to the cover. Luckily it was still under warranty and Giant quickly replaced it. Terrific customer service 👌👌 Both PMs worked just fine. I have a Quarq dfour on another bike and honestly can’t tell the difference. It’s a great bang for your buck. For me it was even a better deal that I purchased thru a team deal. If you are smashing watts it will tell you. I can’t care less if the number I see is 10-20w over under the real number. The thing is number you’ll see on the screen will be the same consistently ride after ride. That’s all it matters for me. Enjoy your new bike man. Jealous!
They were released 2 weeks ago and didn't you watch the video. Lighter whilst keeping the stiffness the same and revised tube shapes like a larger downtube for increased aerodynamics
Hi David. Just bought a 2020 Pro 1 Disc, and the combo stem/spacers on this 2021 model looks so much better. Do you know if the said combo can be purchased and fitted to the 2020 TCR? Thanks.
Hey David, would you choose the Giant TCR pro 1 disc or the trek emonda slr7 disc? I have to decide these coming days, and I really don't know... I am a bit afraid of the comfortability of trek slr...
Great looking bike. Love the look of the new red/blue Advanced SL 1 Disc, but the pricing is just wrong. For the same money you can get Canyon's Ultimate with Red AXS or even the super lightweight EVO. So no longer such great value.
The Canyon Ultimate is showing its age though, introduced in 2015 (I was at the launch) and updated with disc brakes in 2017, so the TCR is a much more modern frame which you have to take into account when making value judgments
This TCR with logo of CCC team or Trek Emonda Sl6 Pro? Tcr more light and have the power metter, Trek have a better and nice frameset (for me) and the cables are invisible... Wich one is more fast and aerodynamic and the best wheels? I use a M 54 european Meetings from Portugal! P.S.i need a answer fast because i go buy one of these bikes tomorrow...
I haven't ridden the new SL6 Pro so can't comment on ride and handling differences, but based on the spec the Giant is a lot lighter and has the power meter included and the only downside is the cable routing so it depends on what you place more importance on really
Good question. I'm not sure how much difference there is in stiffness between the two, that's a question I'll have to ask Giant. The SL is lighter though and there's probably a bit more compliance from the ISM. Which you choose depends on what's more important to you. Having the lightest frame (SL) or easier seat height adjustment (ADV)
Hello thanks for the detailed report. Can you confirm your source for the quoted frame weight - I am struggling to find any facts about it online. (Specifically the advanced pro frame weight).
Amazing review, thank you. Does the frame have a compartment for a electronic groupies battery, or would you need to tie the battery to the stem if you were to switch to an electronic groupset in the future?
Hi David, great review, thanks very much. I see Giant have increased the price of this bike (and all their other 2021 models) by £200. Would you still consider this bike to be great value at the increased price of£3,799? Thanks
@@davidarthur Thanks for the reply David. My first thought was shameless profiteering given the huge demand for bikes. But I'm sure they will claim increased manufacturing & shipping costs due to covid!
I have a 2018 synapse hi-mod dura ace would the 2021 TCR advanced pro 1 be a good upgrade? Looking for more speed but still comfortable thanks in advance David
Hello David! What is your height ? and frame size ?? I got 196 cm (95kgs) let me know if I need to order XL or L is enough ( I'd like to have smaller frames) Great VID!!!
I'm 5'11" and it's a size ML. Hope that helps? Tricky to suggest the right size, what does the size guide say? Sometimes better to go smaller as more likely you can make it fit with longer stem etc
david arthur - thanks for the reply . I have the version before this one and it’s still the best road bike I’ve ever ridden . It this version is a slight improvement they are onto a winner . Great to see they haven’t put the cables through the bars & stem , the propel is a nightmare.
I only ever hear good things about the TCR. I've always liked them too but it's been a long while since I rode one so looking forward to testing this one. The cable routing is certainly splitting opinion!
Great video dave. Really interested to see how it rides. I have narrowed my next bike down to a tcr, scott addict or supersix evo. What would be your choice? Cheers martin
Thanks Martin! That’s a damn tricky question and I’m going to be honest, I’ve not ridden the Scott Addict and only ridden the Evo once, so I don’t feel qualified to pick just one yet. Is there a specific thing you’re looking for that might push you to one bike over the others?
@@davidarthur Thanks for replying. I am looking for the smoothest riding comfortable bike and not over aggressive. I have kept leaning towards the evo as I believe that they have raised the front end slightly but the tcr looks like very nice and you get alot for your money. I will not pull the trigger until recent events pass so not in a rush. Thanks again dave
If comfort is important than the ability to fit 32mm tyres on the TCR could be useful. Only a couple of rides so far but I’m impressed by the smoothness it offers
@@davidarthur thanks dave. I have a great giant dealer locally so once they are open and have some 2021 models on display I shall take a look. Have a good weekend. Cheers martin
@@martinheath5976 I can only speak for canada. But here the equivilant supersix evo(ultegra) is 100 bucks more, does not have a power meter and is spec'd with a 105 rear cassette. The evo is a nice ride but I dont like them cutting corners when the bike costs that that much. I think the biggest factors for comfort are the included 28mm tubeless tires which will be more compliant than tubular. And the option to be able to go up to 32 will make the ride that much more plush. I was going to go with the evo until they released this bike then I changed my mind. Good luck with your choice.
That’s indeed pretty neat! Wondering if I can buy it? My stem bolts are angled upwards and downwards so I can’t use a stem mount without that angle adjustment 😭
Just ordered the Rim brake version of this as I have an s-works tarmac disc version so will be interesting to compare this. The power meter was the deal maker. Great review. 👍
@@gabrielfong Hi - No I didn’t ride the disc brake version but I’m very familiar with disc brake bikes so I’ve got a good idea of what it would be like. The giant is a lovely bike and the braking ability is spot on. A few observations: 1) Out of the box it needs new bar tape because the stuff it’s wrapped in is painfully thin and cheap. 2) The Wheels are decent but at the time of purchase tyre compatibility was very poor due to them being hookless. I believe continental have or are releasing new GP5000 S TR model which is hookless compatible. I have actually replaced my wheels with some Roval CLX32 which has transformed the bike now. It’s not far off my S-Works now on weight & feel! 3) The supplied chain is a KMC one and my bike mechanic recommended I change it to a Shimano one due to cassette wear (more than normal given mileage). Must be the profile of the chain, not sure. I’ve bought a replacement one ready to put on anyway. Overall a solid 8/10 for the bike. Would have scored higher had the tyre compatibility been better at the time!
I’ve got an Ultimate at the moment and can safely say they’re are nothing alike at all. They might be visually similar from a distance but that’s as far as the similarities go
Ok thanks, me too, a 2018 cf sl 8.0 Appreciate it’s a bit subjective but which of the two, in your opinion, is the better all round bike between the two. I ask because I have a big birthday looming early next year & have the all important green light from my significant other to get a new bike, I was going to simply get an Ultimate slx but this giant has certainly caught my eye!
@@davidarthur I live in the Black Forest, not far from the Vosges and the Alps and haven't missed disc yet. +0,5kg i would accept. With 8kg you can buy 29er
I’m 5’11”. I’ve done a couple of rides so far and I’m finding the fit perfect. I’ve always ridden ML and this size is now actually 5mm shorter in the reach so it’s spot on
The range does start at £1600... Canyon's direct-sales model is tough for brands selling through bike shops to compete with. I do think this bike compares pretty well especially when you factor in the dual-sided power meter
Note - new Covid + Brexit price now 4200.
In the end I was stuck between this and the equivalent Defy. The speed focus, extra .5KG saved plus a power meter swung the deal, and all things considered very happy. The Defy a great bike but the 34/34 combo even a little too easy for me and I tend to spin out on the flat.
Rides like a hammer out the gate with almost zero setup. The frame is not quite Defy compliance, but given the focus, is not meant to be. I read it's much closer to the enduro than it used to be. I have no issues with the cables, which gives more stem versatility and the wheels are super sweet. The Garmin mounts a nice touch but lack of tubeless kit a little tight at this price. I also find the short seat just fine, nose down a tad.
Improvements? Well, I have the ML frame, being 6ft and 31 inside leg, and following the chart ML is right. But TBH it feels a little short in the cockpit - I could have gone L. Will get used to it, or buy a longer stem.
Gear ratios could do with some improvement. It's setup for speed, but reality it's going to be bought by the enthusiastic amateur. This means the 52/36 and 11-30 will be a struggle for most over 12 to 15%. The semi-compact chainring is fine, but a 11-32 would have given more choices. But - with a short rear derailleur your max option is the 30 (although I read you can push to a 32). Just by fitting a factory medium cage they could have given more out of the box versatility, even if just to swap out the existing cassette for a 32 for longer steeper rides.
In the end - this and the Defy both great deals - with the Defy you save 200 but lose a power meter and gain weight, with this you have a lightweight weekend brag race ready bike with top spec kit throughout.
Oh - and the colour - delicious. Black from afar, exotic up close.
Your review is better than GCN's review of this bike. Bravo!
Wow, thanks!
Aye and the variant people are far more likely to actually buy
I totally agree with you!
Please can you post a link to GCN's review of this bike.
@@davidarthur Is it compatible with 35mm tyres? Or 32 is a maximum?
What do you think of the new TCR Advanced Pro? Also, correction on the price, it's actually £3,599, so even better value for money!
Finally a medium large that works. Love the revised geo. Always felt thar ML was 5mm too long.
Bike of the year contender, great video too
It's a gorgeous looking bike, but I'm looking forward to your opinion on compliance/ride quality. If it's as good as the Defy Advanced, they're on to a winner.
My Chinese Tarmac SL6 is beautifully made but the deep-section seatpost has no discernable compliance.
Hopefully not to long of an ordering queue, can 't wait to start riding mine.
Compliance is something I’m really keen to asses when I start getting the miles in
great video David keep them coming your one of a few that actually give detailed reviews
Thanks 🙏
I've always had a soft spot for the TCR, had a TCR in Once team colours back in the day, man was that a harsh ride!
Living in 🇹🇼 now over 3y and I just bought my first Giant, exactly this one. I'm impressed by the price difference between TW and Europe, didn't expected it that pricey in 🇬🇧.
was it cheaper?
@@normen416 definitely. High end bikes like giant or many other brands like specialized is made in Taiwan. Groupsets here are also cheaper then those in Japan, basically just kinda cheaper then other coutries does.
Nice to hear that! Though these two weeks two we can't really go out for a ride can we... Hope the pandemic will soon be better ... 🥺
Giant makes thier high-end bike inTaiwan and sells lowest price inTaiwan even sram also besides thier factory. I buy a tcr advanced sl with Sram Rival and SLR1Wheele and soon the total price is about 6,500 USD,less price but high performance.
great value with the carbon wheels and power meter!
Congratulations ! Looks like you're the best out there at this kind of thing ! 😀
Watched last week. Bought today. Ride tomorrow. Great review. Bang for buck. Great bike
Wow glad the review was helpful for you
What a fantastic bargain. Looks beautiful. Proven performance. Yeah - I love it.
David - I subbed. I really like your reviews. Great photography and close ups. Excellent narration. Thank you
Thanks 😊
Very impressive package, lots of bike for the chedda. Giant is setting the bar.
Great video! Giant always chooses a complicated route for internal cables to make the the bike aero. Not a big fan of the cables being channelled into the top of the down tube. In my 2015 Giant propel the cable is routed on the top of the top tube!
I have a propel as well. Horrible routing. After spending 12 hours recabling I just drilled out the top cap and ran a full cable housing from bar to derailleur. Abysmal design.
Love this bike and actually have the Advanced SL 2021. Just one correction at 9:19, you can't choose any stem you like unfortunately, Giant's steerer tube is 1 1/4" on top, which limits the stem selection to very few options...
Keep up the great job David, love your channel!
Shame that, luckily the stock stem works for me! 👍
I have tcr advnaced 1 for already 2 years 14k done. I agree in general TCRs are very economical wrt components overall ok quality. But comparing to some Italian brands or even German it lacks attention to detail and some passion. Pay attention it is not the stiffest neither if you take XL frame. Something like Andriod phones -- more economical almost the same but lacks the finish -- that's my 2 cents. Would I buy it again after all experience, maybe no if I had bigger budget.
Yes, paint is boring and it has a press-fit, true. But dollar for dollar, the other brands are form over function.
Whaoooo. Superb bike. Better presentation. Thorough, comprehensive, explicit.
Thanks for the feedback :)
nice review without the blowing of smoke..
Bigger tyre clearance is just better all around. We aren't all built like pro cyclists, I'm no hulk but still weigh over 90kg so having a bike that can take fatter tyres just makes for more comfortable riding and makes us more likely to get out more
I was gonna hit 'subscribe' at the end, when I realised I'd already subscribed - Great review!
Much appreciated!
Lovely looking bike I think! The weight is too much though and cable routing is terrible imo! I want to like disc brakes, but more money for a bike that is 1kg heavier than what I have now, why would anyone upgrade? I think this is the dilemma facing many serious riders!
Great first impressions video, David!
Have my eye on this bike. Probably the closest bike on the market that rivals the Tarmac Expert Disc SL6... which is what I ride...and want to move on from for a smaller frame.
Absolutely stunning bike , , out of my price range, catch it in a few years on the second hand Market, cheers for the video.
Excellent review. Can’t imagine how giant address almost everything a cyclist needs, no additional money need to spend on accessories like computer mount or power meter. It also have great and smooth wheels. Excellent price to value ratio!
Great point! Hard to keep everyone happy but like you say there's nothing you need to spend extra on this bike, it's very well equipped for the money
Now listed at £4199 Uk Giant, February 2021
This is it, this is my next bike i think, the Di2 version though
Thinking the same here, i hope there will be more colors available. I am not that fond of the Chameleon Neptune color.
@@Kansloos you may want to see it in person (i havent), but ive recently rode the blue 2020 bike and its a lot prettier than on pictures. Im assuming the neptune will be very colorful in the sun
@@Kansloos I love it personally. It will be very colourful in the summer months and is something different from the usual matt blacks and white colours. This just my personal preference though. Have a look at the colours in real life because photos never do them any justice
@@austintinoC00l Yep colors are very personal preference, i downloaded the PDF from the Giant site and zoomed in on the bike it looks better then, but it think you're right with these metallic colors you have to see them in person and with different lighting.
@@Kansloos I don't know why the bike manufacturers are limiting us to 1 colour per trim level. They're using the same frame across various trim levels so why not allow us a choice of the 3 or 4 colours each frame comes in anyway
Ordered mine Saturday. Not sure on delivery date but cant wait to get out on it. Great review too David
Good choice Tony. It'll be worth the wait
This is a Gorgeous bike, Nice review btw
Giant is from Taiwan 🇹🇼!
Everyone knows....what's your point?
Shem dude I just proud of myself cuz I am a Taiwanese
@@pauloeichenseder5852 Probably 80% of world bike production is in Taiwan
This channel deserves way more subscribers. Always on point.
Excellent review. This is a GREAT bike for sure. I know you are paying for the Ultegra group set and wheels so my question is does this TCR have the same frame carbon fiber as the lesser expensive TCR's ? Thanks again for the review.
Thank God, there is also a rim-brake version of the model.
So true. They push this disc nonsence like 'no headphone jack' on new smartphones. At least they give ability to choose. Ah and round seattube is nice also unlike aero bullshit proprietary seatposts, where you are limited in setback options.
@@eddie9703 I admit, for bombing the long descents, or in wet conditions, it is better.
What colour is this can not find it on Giant website or the internet only Rosewood/Carbon listed?
Hey David what kind of bike stand is that? Great video!
Ordered. Thank you for you nice review!
Good choice Martin glad the review was useful for you 👍
Any stem you want? Doesn't this have a 1 1/4" steerer?
Great review 👍
If it came with a Campag build i'd have one by now!
Great Review. Thx. I've ordered an M/L frameset already. :)
Only one question: Can I put 160mm rotors back?
Thanks! You should be able to do that with the necessary Shimano flat mount adapter
have been riding a tcr since 2011. great. this 2021 version would make an ultimate gravel race bike!
That’s an idea? What’s a good gravel tyre up to 32mm?
@@davidarthur I put 32c on my 2021 TCR Pro 1 and its very good on gravel!
Hi David,
Are you planning to put up a new review of the bike? I’m still comparing against the Emonda and wanted to see a little more before deciding. Thanks!
I love mine
Great review, thanks. So are these rims exclusive to tubeless, or can you use traditional inner tubes as well?
Thanks! I would imagine you can run tubes but let me check on that. You don’t want tubeless even if the bike is sold tubeless?
david arthur thanks for checking hopefully they do. Still not convinced and LBS isn’t either, heard mixed reports. Rate the wheels but bit of a dinosaur with good old tubes!
You can run inner tubes, but they must be used with Tubeless tyres because the rims are hookless.
Great review of this bike, but how would you compare it to the Orbea OMX that you test rode?
Looks amazing. Great review.
Thanks so much!
Simplicity at its finest
I am torn between this new TCR and the Defy. Would love to see a ride comparison.
Good idea. I've ridden the Defy in the past so can draw on those comparisons in my review
Love the bike. Why has Giant gone with exposed cables?
Can't wait for the how it rides vlog. Niiiiiiceee!
Coming soon!
Great video! Does it come with a bottle cage?
Thanks! This test bike did but I’m not sure about shop bought bikes, I’m sure they could sort one out for you, but I would have to ask Giant to be 100%
Great review. Any idea of the new slr-1 42mm wheelset weight? Thanks
I was also looking for that and couldn't find.
Just found out.. 1452 for the pair
What do you think of the Pinarello Paris 2021? Can’t decide from that, or trek domane sl5 both around $3000.
Hookless rims won’t take most tires, which is a bit of an issue. A Canyon Ultimate CF SL Disc 8.0 is 8.6 kg’s for £2,399 and still have some cash to buy a nice set of carbon wheels from Hunt that will make the bike even lighter.
How much weight do you think the Hunt wheels will save on this bike? And you know Hunt are hookless as well right?
David Arthur - Just Ride Bikes The HUNT 33 CARBON AERO DISC WHEELSET, weigh about 1,340 grams, not seeing they’re hookless in the spec. The DT Swiss P 1800 Spline that come with the Canyon CF SL Disc 8.0 weigh about 1,680 gram, so a saving of about 300 grams. Just numbers off the websites so not saying they’re carved in Stone.
You might want to look into the hookless bit then...
This is a lovely looking bike, but for that sort of money i would want much cleaner cable routing. You get better cable routing on bikes that cost much less money
Great review man. Seems like they re-redesigned the power meter. I own a 2019 Pro 0 Disc but I think I’m buying this bike. 👌
Thanks! My first experience with this Giant power meter and it sure works well after a couple of weeks so far
david arthur i think you’ll love it. I had both previous versions. They keep changing the design I see. first generation was outside of the crank. I dropped my chain and ripped the cover off and everything under the cover since there are cables tied to the cover. Luckily it was still under warranty and Giant quickly replaced it. Terrific customer service 👌👌 Both PMs worked just fine. I have a Quarq dfour on another bike and honestly can’t tell the difference. It’s a great bang for your buck. For me it was even a better deal that I purchased thru a team deal. If you are smashing watts it will tell you. I can’t care less if the number I see is 10-20w over under the real number. The thing is number you’ll see on the screen will be the same consistently ride after ride. That’s all it matters for me. Enjoy your new bike man. Jealous!
@@davidarthur This is My/L size, i wonder how taki are you?
@@Skowciu he said he's 5'11" in another thread.
How do you have the 2021 model while we're stuck in May 2020? Time travel? When was this released? What's different from 2020?
They were released 2 weeks ago and didn't you watch the video. Lighter whilst keeping the stiffness the same and revised tube shapes like a larger downtube for increased aerodynamics
Hi David. Just bought a 2020 Pro 1 Disc, and the combo stem/spacers on this 2021 model looks so much better. Do you know if the said combo can be purchased and fitted to the 2020 TCR? Thanks.
Hi Jocas I'm afraid I don't know. Could you ask the shop you bought your new bike from? Have you ridden it yet? How is it?
@@davidarthur haven' t. Will be collecting it from the shop on Thursday and will definitely ask.
Thanks for the reply.
Hey David, would you choose the Giant TCR pro 1 disc or the trek emonda slr7 disc? I have to decide these coming days, and I really don't know... I am a bit afraid of the comfortability of trek slr...
I'm afraid I haven't ridden the new SLR yet
Great looking bike. Love the look of the new red/blue Advanced SL 1 Disc, but the pricing is just wrong. For the same money you can get Canyon's Ultimate with Red AXS or even the super lightweight EVO. So no longer such great value.
The Canyon Ultimate is showing its age though, introduced in 2015 (I was at the launch) and updated with disc brakes in 2017, so the TCR is a much more modern frame which you have to take into account when making value judgments
Thank you for the great review, David! Does the Powermeter allow to install 50/34T chainrings temporarily or wouldn't there be enough space? :)
I think it is possible to swap the chainrings but I would check with your local Giant dealer to be sure
@@davidarthur Thanks 😊
Did you put the tyre sealant when you weigh the bike? My tcr pro team size S weigh 7.5kg without pedals.
Hello sir, do you know where could I buy 2021 Giant TCR Advanced pro 1 size small not disc version? Thank you in advance
Where can you get it at that price in uk? Plus can only find rosewood :(
what is the difference between this one and Giant TCR Advanced "team" Disc?
This TCR with logo of CCC team or Trek Emonda Sl6 Pro? Tcr more light and have the power metter, Trek have a better and nice frameset (for me) and the cables are invisible... Wich one is more fast and aerodynamic and the best wheels? I use a M 54 european
Meetings from Portugal!
P.S.i need a answer fast because i go buy one of these bikes tomorrow...
I haven't ridden the new SL6 Pro so can't comment on ride and handling differences, but based on the spec the Giant is a lot lighter and has the power meter included and the only downside is the cable routing so it depends on what you place more importance on really
I'm still wondering whether getting the SL or ADV pro model due to the ISP. How's the stiffness compare between both framesets?
Good question. I'm not sure how much difference there is in stiffness between the two, that's a question I'll have to ask Giant. The SL is lighter though and there's probably a bit more compliance from the ISM. Which you choose depends on what's more important to you. Having the lightest frame (SL) or easier seat height adjustment (ADV)
Is there a dt swiss internal in rear hub please? There should be ratchet and is it compatible with dt swiss ratchet?
I want a new bike now 😢😢
Hello thanks for the detailed report. Can you confirm your source for the quoted frame weight - I am struggling to find any facts about it online. (Specifically the advanced pro frame weight).
The source is Giant from speaking to them here in the U.K.
david arthur Much appreciated for this clarification.
Amazing review, thank you. Does the frame have a compartment for a electronic groupies battery, or would you need to tie the battery to the stem if you were to switch to an electronic groupset in the future?
Thanks! It looks like the Di2 model has the junction box either in the handlebar or seatpost, much neater than strapped to the stem
@@davidarthur all right thanks :)
Hi David, great review, thanks very much. I see Giant have increased the price of this bike (and all their other 2021 models) by £200. Would you still consider this bike to be great value at the increased price of£3,799? Thanks
Strange they’ve upped the price. I would say it still represents good value compared to the likes of the Tarmac or Emonda etc
@@davidarthur Thanks for the reply David. My first thought was shameless profiteering given the huge demand for bikes. But I'm sure they will claim increased manufacturing & shipping costs due to covid!
The 105 version has gone up in price again?
Is it the same frame/fork/wheel combo as the much more expensive Dura Ace Di2 version?
They don’t do a Dura-Ace Di2 version here in the U.K. 😭
I have a 2018 synapse hi-mod dura ace would the 2021 TCR advanced pro 1 be a good upgrade? Looking for more speed but still comfortable thanks in advance David
It would be speedier and the comfort is very good but it’s more a race bike than the endurance setup of the Synapse
Hello my friend this is the colour for 2021? This is a good bike? Giant?
Yes it's the Matt Carbon/Rosewood 2021 colour. Looks amazing in the flesh. And yes it's a great bike :)
Hello David! What is your height ? and frame size ?? I got 196 cm (95kgs) let me know if I need to order XL or L is enough ( I'd like to have smaller frames) Great VID!!!
I'm 5'11" and it's a size ML. Hope that helps? Tricky to suggest the right size, what does the size guide say? Sometimes better to go smaller as more likely you can make it fit with longer stem etc
love the review ,Is that the Rosewood color ? It looks matte black
That's what I was wondering - this looks plain black but this bike on their website has a deep red/purple front end
My 2018 TCR Advanced Pro 1 rim only cost me £2799 new but I could have got it for £2000 if I had waited another 6 months
Bad looking cable routing from handle bars to down tube
The first thing I noticed when I saw the bike🙈.I bought a tcr last year and glad I did now. The cable routing is so much cleaner on the older model
@@87JohnJames agree - cabling is a MESS.
Agreed. It really puts me off one.
Drop the power meter and lower the price?
You can buy the Pro 2 Disc for £2,999 with 105 and no power meter
david arthur - thanks for the reply . I have the version before this one and it’s still the best road bike I’ve ever ridden . It this version is a slight improvement they are onto a winner . Great to see they haven’t put the cables through the bars & stem , the propel is a nightmare.
I only ever hear good things about the TCR. I've always liked them too but it's been a long while since I rode one so looking forward to testing this one. The cable routing is certainly splitting opinion!
Great video dave. Really interested to see how it rides. I have narrowed my next bike down to a tcr, scott addict or supersix evo. What would be your choice? Cheers martin
Thanks Martin! That’s a damn tricky question and I’m going to be honest, I’ve not ridden the Scott Addict and only ridden the Evo once, so I don’t feel qualified to pick just one yet. Is there a specific thing you’re looking for that might push you to one bike over the others?
@@davidarthur
Thanks for replying. I am looking for the smoothest riding comfortable bike and not over aggressive. I have kept leaning towards the evo as I believe that they have raised the front end slightly but the tcr looks like very nice and you get alot for your money. I will not pull the trigger until recent events pass so not in a rush. Thanks again dave
If comfort is important than the ability to fit 32mm tyres on the TCR could be useful. Only a couple of rides so far but I’m impressed by the smoothness it offers
@@davidarthur thanks dave. I have a great giant dealer locally so once they are open and have some 2021 models on display I shall take a look. Have a good weekend. Cheers martin
@@martinheath5976 I can only speak for canada. But here the equivilant supersix evo(ultegra) is 100 bucks more, does not have a power meter and is spec'd with a 105 rear cassette. The evo is a nice ride but I dont like them cutting corners when the bike costs that that much.
I think the biggest factors for comfort are the included 28mm tubeless tires which will be more compliant than tubular. And the option to be able to go up to 32 will make the ride that much more plush.
I was going to go with the evo until they released this bike then I changed my mind. Good luck with your choice.
The is the best road bike I have bought in my life and I have ridden more than 10 road bikes in the past 7 years
what were you other ten road bikes
Cant wait!
Watched this and ordered it
Awesome! 👌
where did you order from? closest retailer for me is 1000 miles away and I'm in the US
I think it's cheaper here in sg as I just got mine. No problem on stock level too.
how much u bought bro im from Malaysia.
what's that out front mount you're using on the TCR?
It's the one that comes with the bike. Neat isn't it. There's one for Garmin, Wahoo and GoPro
That’s indeed pretty neat! Wondering if I can buy it? My stem bolts are angled upwards and downwards so I can’t use a stem mount without that angle adjustment 😭
I have no idea I’m afraid but I could ask them for you
david arthur ohhh could you please do that for me? Thanks a lot!
This or the new Tarmac SL7?
How much would it cost with 105 and rim brakes?
£1799. It's this model you want www.giant-bicycles.com/gb/tcr-advanced-2-2021
@@davidarthur Thank you
Just ordered the Rim brake version of this as I have an s-works tarmac disc version so will be interesting to compare this. The power meter was the deal maker. Great review. 👍
Have you had a chance to compare them both? What are your thoughts?
@@gabrielfong Hi - No I didn’t ride the disc brake version but I’m very familiar with disc brake bikes so I’ve got a good idea of what it would be like. The giant is a lovely bike and the braking ability is spot on.
A few observations:
1) Out of the box it needs new bar tape because the stuff it’s wrapped in is painfully thin and cheap.
2) The Wheels are decent but at the time of purchase tyre compatibility was very poor due to them being hookless. I believe continental have or are releasing new GP5000 S TR model which is hookless compatible.
I have actually replaced my wheels with some Roval CLX32 which has transformed the bike now. It’s not far off my S-Works now on weight & feel!
3) The supplied chain is a KMC one and my bike mechanic recommended I change it to a Shimano one due to cassette wear (more than normal given mileage). Must be the profile of the chain, not sure. I’ve bought a replacement one ready to put on anyway.
Overall a solid 8/10 for the bike. Would have scored higher had the tyre compatibility been better at the time!
Looks exactly like the Ultimate that Canyon have been selling for years?
I’ve got an Ultimate at the moment and can safely say they’re are nothing alike at all. They might be visually similar from a distance but that’s as far as the similarities go
Ok thanks, me too, a 2018 cf sl 8.0
Appreciate it’s a bit subjective but which of the two, in your opinion, is the better all round bike between the two. I ask because I have a big birthday looming early next year & have the all important green light from my significant other to get a new bike, I was going to simply get an Ultimate slx but this giant has certainly caught my eye!
@@davidarthur so what's the difference? Giant better?
I’m not sure I’d buy another Ultimate if you already have one, and I reckon it’s well due an update. Might be worth waiting or trying something else
Does the TCR come in alloy??
I’m afraid it doesn’t - but their Contend model does
What size is the one on your video?
It’s an M/L
Can't fit any stem. The TCR has a 1.25 steerer (OD2)
I'd prefer di2 than a power meter
Thank you . Super film . CHICAGO 🚲🇵🇱POLAND 🇵🇱🚲🌍🇵🇱
Could you tell us the weight of the bike, please :)
7.5kg. Which is in the video 😃
@@davidarthur really? I totally missed it, sorry.
Haha that’s okay 👍
Advanced and not Advanced Pro?
7,6kg is shocking. My 10year old bike weights 6,5kg and was 1.000€ cheaper. But it looks nice,
Does your 10 year old bike have disc brakes and a power meter? ;)
@@davidarthur I live in the Black Forest, not far from the Vosges and the Alps and haven't missed disc yet. +0,5kg i would accept.
With 8kg you can buy 29er
Weight isn’t everything though
@@davidarthur yes, maybe i am too old school😊
All disc bikes ae heavier these days....This model is even light compared to other brands for this price tag.
How tall are you?
I’m 5’11”. I’ve done a couple of rides so far and I’m finding the fit perfect. I’ve always ridden ML and this size is now actually 5mm shorter in the reach so it’s spot on
@@davidarthur thanks.
I'm 5'9" and I'm always torn between Small and Medium.
Sounds like a medium might be right for you?
@@davidarthur I tend to find I like the reach of the small with the stack of the medium. I'd probably be better on the Defy.
I would recommend a test ride but that could be tricky at the moment
Looks fantastic. But a mid range bike coming in at 3600 pounds... I find this more top range bike.
The range does start at £1600... Canyon's direct-sales model is tough for brands selling through bike shops to compete with. I do think this bike compares pretty well especially when you factor in the dual-sided power meter
Great looking bike. It’s too bad the nice paint job is ruined with the big white Giant logos.