Felt AR5 (2014)

Another top aero bike from Felt

Pros

- Beautiful carbon aero frame
- Shimano 105
- Price

Cons

- None worth mentioning

Review

Felt was one of the first companies to offer a road race bike with an aero profile. They have a history of building triathlon and time trial frames with their mastery of carbon layup, and this expertise is immediately apparent with the AR series frames. If any bike has the looks to back-up claims of wind tunnel testing this is it!

Are there any aero bikes that look as stunning as this black carbon machine? Felt have realized that it takes more than just popping a set of aero bars to a road bike for TT or triathlon, and have therefore created the "VariMount" seatpost. This component can be flipped to change the geometry of the seatpost and hence rider position. Great idea!

Felt claims improved numbers concerning stiffness and power transfer from previous models, although this isn't a gran fondo machine so you might want to invest any money left on a good pair of knicks.

Aside from the great looks, the collection of quality components like Shimano 105, and the classiness of the frame, the most stand out feature could be the price! Felt have been hitting some good figures lately, but the AR5 package for a nudge over $2,500 is impressive. Sure there are cheaper bikes for similar spec but remember the frame all those parts are attached to.

This bike would suit a large number of racing club cyclists, and is a great option for a road/triathlete who can't afford, or has little room for, more than one bike. Another top model from Felt.