52 or 54? And thoughts on the Kestrel Talon

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2009-11-23 10:45 AM

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Subject: 52 or 54? And thoughts on the Kestrel Talon
HI all,

Two questions really:

1)  So, trying to decide whether a 52 or 54 frame is best for me.  I'm 5'9" with an inseam of 31".    Challenge is that a local shop has a Kestrel Talon at a good price, but it's in a 52.  The sales guy is saying that if I'm on a 54 road bike, I should be on a 52 Tri Bike along with comments like, "we'll fit the bike, and it'll be fine."

Just not sure whether that is true, or if he's trying to unload the bike.  I went on the Competitive Cyclist website and it says my range is 52.1 to 54.9.  Other sites put me at a 52. 

2)  What are people's thoughts on the Kestrel Talon.  The store is pitching the fact that it has the adjustable seat, so I can set it up for either road or TT.  I read posts online with comments that it's not a true TT geometry and therefore not a good race bike.  It's at a great price with Ultegra components, and if a 52 is indeed the right size, it looks like a compelling offer.  Any input from those in the know?

Thanks!

2009-11-23 12:40 PM
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2009-11-23 6:35 PM
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Subject: RE: 52 or 54? And thoughts on the Kestrel Talon
My wife's bike was a Talon, she's a bit under 5'8" and had a 54. It was too big, never could size it right. We sold it off since she is not racing these days.
2009-11-24 1:23 AM
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Subject: RE: 52 or 54? And thoughts on the Kestrel Talon
The Talon is a nice bike, but keep in mind that it's neither a tri bike nor a road bike, it's a "tweener" and a very good one at that. It will allow you to have one bike for both tri's and road, but it won't be the best option for either.

Sizing wise.. an almost impossible question to answer.... your height and inseam would make me think you need a 52, but so many other factors comes into play, flexibility, build, type of rider, your goals, you previous riding experiences, etc. A great case why you need to get a fitting before buying a bike.
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