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A carbon fiber bike, at entry level prices.
But is it any good? We review the 2014 Kestrel Talon, with its (mostly) Shimano 105 groupset and carbon fiber frame it certainly looks good on paper, but how does it fair on the road.
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Frame
The first thing you notice is the frame, it looks great in its 2014 colours of black and white. The tubes have a purposeful angular look that has trickled down from the higher end bikes. The saddle is mounted on an aerodynamic stem that looks like it will cut through the air with ease.
Made from Carbon Fiber (as are the forks), this more than anything keeps the weight of the bike to less than 20lbs.
Groupset
The key components are from the mid range Shimano 105 groupset, rear derailleur, brakes and shifters. This will give a good balance between long reliable life, and price. The other components are either from the lower tier of the Shimano range, and the crank is an “Oval Concepts 140″ not really sure what this is, my best bet is that its actually an FSA crank rebranded. Still it’s stiff enough to do the job, even if the 105 would be a better overall bet.
To summarise the groupset. There has to be a balance between price and quality. Kestral have done a good job here, with money being spent on the key components. The lesser parts like the crank can always be upgraded as they wearout.
Wheels
These are Oval Concepts 327 wheels, bought separately they would normally retail at about $129. So on a $1200 bike they are about the right spec (normally I would budget 10% of the bike for the wheel cost). The wheels are decent, not to flashy and will go well. While they are alloy, not carbon, they still perform well.
Other Features
If you buy online, then you can still get a lifetime limited warranty by having the bike assembled at a local bike shop. This is typically $150. However there is not really much to go wrong, and if you are confidant about assembly then its easy enough to do at home. I prefer to do my own bike maintenance and learn more about my bike (hence this site!)
Also you will need to add pedals, as most people now use clipless pedals its standard for bike companies to let customer source their own preferred choice.
What are others saying about the Kestrel Talon 2014?
This is an extremely popular bike, and it looks like Kestral have the balance just right. It has received glowing 5 star recommendations from over 15 reviewers.
Most of the reviewers like the stiff frame, that is well weighted and comfortable to ride even at distances of 50 miles or more. Even at high speeds (20mph) there is good power delivery, with little wasted through the flex of the frame.
If buying online, rest assured its well packaged and takes less than an hour to assemble.
Where to buy?
Of course its great to support your local bike shop, but if you are the type who prefers not to deal with sales people, or likes a deal and is able to stick the bike together then there are some great deals on line. The MRSP on this bike is $1549, to save you a little leg work the best price I have found is Amazon at just under $1400, including free delivery. Or Jenson USA, one of the largest online bikeshops in the world.
Summary:
This is one of the stars of 2014. A balanced racer, that looks good and performs well. If you are looking for a bike around $1400 then this is one of the best choices you can make.
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