Giant TCR Advanced versus TCR Advanced SL

[Monsieur Remings]

So, thinking of buying an end of season bike and wondering if any readers have any experience of either of these rides? I had a Giant Defy for a few years - aluminium, and I loved it and always vowed I'd buy another Giant.

I guess my issue is that my heart says go for the SL but my head says the Advanced alone. It may help if I mention what I intend to use it for:

Next year I intend to get into more road racing - 2012 has all been about endurance, long hilly rides in preparation for the July Etape du Tour now completed. Over the winter I want to change focus to smaller distances at a higher pace but would prefer not to use a new bike (this one) for road racing being a newcomer, so this will be a best bike for club rides and solo training rides and once it's had a bit of life rolled into it, then I'll use it for road racing if that makes sense..? I know some people would prefer to use their best bike for racing but I couldn't afford to lose a new bike in a crash etc so my older carbon - a Ribble - will be what I use for racing.

Any thoughts? Is the SL worth the extra? I know both have good reviews, especially the Advanced.

Thanks in advance(d).

 

[Cyclist33]

What's the difference? Come come, at least post links to the spec.

Simple answer is budget. You'll buy the most expensive that you can afford, lol. It's the game.

 

[Monsieur Remings]

http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rc...u4GwAQ&usg=AFQjCNEVk-KcflqrhB1nkvSzWhy-2EVrXQ

and...

http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rc...-4DgAQ&usg=AFQjCNF3f-a62qGy3Jv6OEVQVNTbaVfjOA

I can see the difference in componentry but the difference in frame is what I'm most concerned with.

 

[feelfattergoinguphill]

Advanced sl frames use Toray T800 carbon fibre as opposed to t700 on "standard" advanced frames.T800 is 10% stronger and 25% stiffer than T700(raw, with resin probably half that)Hence can use less material for the same strength/ride.

 

[Monsieur Remings]

Thanks fella, have you ridden either?

 

[black'n'yellow]

I know of two riders locally who have both achieved 1st cat status this season, both riding showroom-stock TCR Advanced 3s - neither of those bikes will be a limiter for you....

 

[feelfattergoinguphill]

Not for a cpl years,but cant think ive ever seen complaints from peep's and they always do well in reviews..As both probably give a similar ride id opt for cheaper one and buy better wheels and tyres