Giant FastRoad Advanced 2 vs FastRoad SL 1 (2020)

[mdjaved]

Hi all,

Apologies if this question has been posted elsewhere - I could not find any info when I searched.

I am looking at the following two bikes - Giant FastRoad Advanced 2 (2020) and FastRoad SL 1 (2020). The main difference between them is that the Advanced is having "carbon composite" frame, thru axles and Shimano Tiagra groupset while the SL is "aluminium alloy" frame, quick release and Shimano 105 groupset (minus the crank which is Praxis). The advanced costs $1999 while the SL is $1499. I'm trying to work out if the extra $500 is worth for the carbon frame, thru axles and downgrade to Tiagra. I'll be using the bike mainly for commuting hence I'm looking at the flat handle as compared to drop handles. I also read that thru axles give more stability and stiffness - is this true?

Appreciate any help.

Thanks in advance.

[AUbicycles]

Forget the thru-axles. It is a trend in road cycling but realistically, you are not buying an inferior bike just because it doesn't have thru-axles.

The full-carbon frame is a difference but a frame can't be completely stiff otherwise it would be uncomfortable. The Carbon and Aluminium frame may have different characteristic, for example, the carbon could absorb more micro-vibrations while the layup (construction) tuned more for stiffness in the right places and flex (comfort) in the right places.

The SL does not have full 105. In fact both frames only have the front and rear 105 derailleur. Other brands such as TRP and Tektro make up the brakes and shifters, both with KMC chain and basic Shimano cassette.

A few minor differences in the groupset, though they are not on completely different levels in terms of this spec. Some differences in the Giant own-brand wheels but in summary, the geometry appears (at a glance) similar and the broad difference is Carbon or Aluminium.

[mdjaved]

@AUbicycles Thanks for your input.

Forget the thru-axles. It is a trend in road cycling but realistically, you are not buying an inferior bike just because it doesn't have thru-axles.

Thanks for confirming that. I was worried that it may affect my safety while riding across different terrains.

A few minor differences in the groupset, though they are not on completely different levels in terms of this spec. Some differences in the Giant own-brand wheels but in summary, the geometry appears (at a glance) similar and the broad difference is Carbon or Aluminium.

Based on your comment, it looks like the extra $500 is simply for the carbon frame which personally for me is not a game changer at this point as I simply want to enjoy riding and not sure if spending $2K on a bike will be worth it.

Thanks again - made my choice a lot more simpler.

[cynicalmike]

the carbon bike might be lighter as well overall in addition to absorbing the road buzz better than the alloy. this might feel better when lifting it up stairs, around the garage etc. and will be a little quicker up the hills (if any on commute)

as long as you don't think you're clumsy enough to crash easily (not that likely in commuting) i'd go the carbon but if you really prefer the paint job on the alloy and would prefer to save the $500 then go the alloy

i went alloy for the first 'road bike' and now i don't use it. my first carbon did a lot more mileage and i've basically retired my alloy.

[mdjaved]

@cynicalmike Thank you for your feedback. I must admit I'm considering the carbon too however I would classify myself in the "clumsy" category hence the preference is more towards the alloy

The other option I'm looking at is the Giant Contend AR 2. I really hate the conduct discs so I'll have to see what can be done on that.

[Mububban]

Personally I'd rather have a higher specced alloy bike with better wheels and gearing, over a carbon frame with heavier wheels and lower spec drivetrain.

Jump to 7:00 for the conclusion, but in isolation the consensus is that alloy is just fine.

[Mububban]

The other option I'm looking at is the Giant Contend AR 2. I really hate the conduct discs so I'll have to see what can be done on that.

I've got a Contend with the hydraulic converter, apart from losing some handlebar space it works just fine, and I've still got room for a bell, a basic computer, and my camera (GoPro mount) attaches to the hydraulic converter unit directly.

No problems with actual performance or feel etc.

[mdjaved]

@Mububban Firstly thanks a lot for the video. Atleast I know I'm o the right track in thinking about aluminium.

To your second point, I would have considered the hybrid if I did not require additional levers there. That's why I was looking at the TRP Spyre C brakes since I could use it for the shifters and also use additional levers. I may create a new thread regarding it as I don't want to confuse anyone.

[Ballmead]

To the OP, what did you end up buying and are you happy with it?

[Mububban]

To the OP, what did you end up buying and are you happy with it?

I'd say your chances of getting a reply are slim to none. Lots of people make an account here to ask one question, and once it's answered, they never return.

But you never know your luck