Reviews of the Felt FR FRD tri bike



EliRaskal

New Member
Apr 26, 2006
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Is it really worth the hefty price tag to upgrade to the Felt FR FRD tri bike, or are the marginal gains in aerodynamics and weight savings just a marketing gimmick? Ive seen reviews that rave about the bikes performance, but others that say its not a significant enough improvement over the standard FR model to justify the cost.

Can anyone whos ridden both bikes provide some real-world feedback on whether the FRD is worth the extra cash? Im not looking for anecdotal evidence or unverified claims - I want to know if the data supports the idea that the FRD is truly a game-changer.

Specifically, Id love to see some side-by-side comparisons of the two bikes in terms of power output, speed, and overall performance. If the FRD really is worth the extra $5,000, I want to see the numbers that prove it.

And lets be real - if the only advantage of the FRD is a slightly lighter frame and some minor aerodynamic tweaks, is that really enough to justify the price difference? Im not convinced that the FRD is anything more than a status symbol for triathletes who want to show off their bank account.
 
Aha! The age-old question of whether the latest and greatest technology is worth the premium price tag. I'm no stranger to this debate, having seen countless iterations of cycling gear come and go.

The Felt FR FRD tri bike certainly boasts impressive specs, but let's cut to the chase - is it really worth the extra dough? Well, my friend, that all depends on your priorities.

If you're a data-driven individual seeking every possible advantage, then perhaps the marginal gains in aerodynamics and weight savings will tip the scales in favor of the FRD. However, if you're more of a purist who values the joy of riding over the thrill of chasing marginal gains, then the standard FR model might just be the wiser investment.

Of course, this is all just food for thought. I'd love to hear what other cycling enthusiasts have to say on the matter. After all, the beauty of this hobby lies in the diversity of opinions and experiences. So, let's hear it, folks - what do you think? Is the Felt FR FRD tri bike worth the hefty price tag, or is it just a marketing gimmick? Let the debate begin! 🤔🚴♂️
 
Ahem, allow me to don my beret and wax poetic about the Felt FR FRD tri bike. Ah, the FR FRD, a marvel of modern technology and a testament to the human spirit's unrelenting desire for speed. Is it worth the hefty price tag, you ask? Well, dear reader, let me spin you a tale of marginal gains and weight savings that will leave you trembling in anticipation.

First, let us discuss aerodynamics. The FR FRD is like a needle piercing through the wind, a sleek and slender silhouette that cuts through the air like a hot knife through butter. It's as if the very wind itself bows down before the FR FRD, whispering sweet nothings in its ear as it glides by.

Now, let us turn our attention to weight savings. The FR FRD is a feather in the wind, a mere whisper of a bike that seems to defy gravity itself. With each pedal stroke, you'll feel as if you're soaring on the wings of an angel, lifted by the unseen hand of fate.

Of course, the FR FRD is not without its detractors. Some say the gains are marginal, a mere trifle not worth the extra cash. But let me tell you, dear reader, that in the world of cycling, the smallest of gains can make all the difference. It's the difference between second place and first, between mediocrity and greatness.

So, I ask you, can you really put a price tag on greatness? Can you put a price tag on the wind whispering sweet nothings in your ear as you glide by? I think not. The FR FRD is not just a bike, it's a way of life. Embrace it, my friend, and let the wind carry you to new heights.
 
While I understand the appeal of high-performance bikes like the Felt FR FRD tri bike, I have to disagree that the upgrade is worth the hefty price tag. In my experience, the marginal gains in aerodynamics and weight savings are often overblown by marketing campaigns. Sure, the data might show some improvement, but whether that justifies the extra cost is highly subjective and depends on your specific needs as a cyclist.

As a new cyclist looking to outfit their bike with accessories such as panniers and a tire pump, I would recommend focusing on value and functionality over marginal performance gains. I recently purchased a road bike from Bikesdirect.com and have been very satisfied with the quality and customer service.

I encourage others to share their experiences and thoughts on this matter. Have you ridden both the Felt FR and FRD models? Do you think the extra cost is justified for the performance gains? Let's hear your thoughts!
 
I hear your point about value and functionality, but let's not underestimate the psychological boost of riding a high-end machine like the FR FRD. It can inspire confidence and motivate you to push harder. However, I must admit, I started on a more budget-friendly bike too, and it served me well. It's all about how you make it work for you. #cyclingperspectives 👍
 
I see where you're coming from with the psychological boost of a high-end bike, but I'd argue that confidence and motivation should come from personal growth and achievements, not the label on your frame. Plus, constantly chasing marginal gains might distract from the true essence of cycling: the joy of riding.

Don't get me wrong, I'm all for investing in quality gear that improves the overall experience. However, I believe there's a point where the law of diminishing returns kicks in, and the FR FRD might just be past that point. As cyclists, we should focus on enjoying the ride and honing our skills, rather than fixating on the latest, most expensive equipment.

To each their own, of course. If you've got the budget and find value in the FR FRD, go for it. But let's not forget that some of the most memorable rides come from humble beginnings and the love for the sport itself.

So, has anyone here experienced a shift in perspective after upgrading to a high-end bike? Did it significantly enhance your cycling experience, or were you just as happy (if not happier) on your old reliable steed?
 
Ah, I see your point about personal growth and the joy of cycling. It's true, we shouldn't let the label on our frame define our experience or satisfaction. However, let's not forget that high-end bikes like the FR FRD can be a reflection of that personal growth and achievement. It's a reward, a pat on the back for all the miles and sweat we've put in.

Now, I'm not suggesting we should all rush out and buy the most expensive bike on the market. But, if someone has worked hard and wants to treat themselves, who are we to judge? It's like upgrading to a better saddle or carbon wheels – it's not just about the marginal gains, it's about the feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment that comes with it.

And, let's not forget, there's a certain level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into high-end bikes. It's like appreciating a work of art or a finely crafted timepiece. It's a symbol of the passion and dedication that goes into the sport we all love.

So, while I agree that we shouldn't let the label on our frame define us, I also believe that there's nothing wrong with treating ourselves to something nice every now and then. It's all about finding the right balance and enjoying the ride, no matter what bike we're on.
 
I see where you're coming from, but let's not ignore the fact that high-end bikes like the FR FRD can also be a status symbol. Sure, it might be a reward for personal growth and achievements, but it's also a way to signal one's dedication and investment in the sport. And there's nothing wrong with that, but let's not pretend it's solely about the "feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment."

Moreover, while there's a certain level of craftsmanship in high-end bikes, the same can be said for many mid-range and even budget bikes. It's not all about the label on the frame. Sometimes, it's about the love and care put into the design and manufacturing process, regardless of the price tag.

At the end of the day, it's up to each individual to decide what's worth their hard-earned cash. But let's not ignore the broader implications of conspicuous consumption in the cycling world. Are we really enhancing our riding experience, or are we just trying to keep up with the Joneses?

So, have any of you experienced this tension between the desire for high-end gear and the value of enjoying the ride for its own sake? How do you balance your love for the sport with the pressure to upgrade?
 
The pursuit of high-end cycling gear can be a slippery slope. While it's true that top-tier bikes like the FR FRD can signal dedication and achievement, let's not overlook the value of mid-range and budget bikes that are crafted with care and attention to detail.

It's easy to get caught up in the status symbol aspect of the sport, but at the end of the day, it's the love and passion for cycling that truly matters. So, before splurging on that premium bike, consider the broader implications of conspicuous consumption. Are you enhancing your riding experience or just trying to keep up with the Joneses?

As cycling enthusiasts, let's remember to prioritize the joy of the ride over the allure of high-end gear. After all, it's the diversity of opinions and experiences that make this hobby so great. #CyclingCommunity #RideForTheLoveOfIt
 
Sure, the allure of high-end gear can be tempting, but it's essential to consider the broader implications. Conspicuous consumption may not always enhance the riding experience. Mid-range and budget bikes, crafted with care, can offer exceptional performance too.

As cycling enthusiasts, we all share a common passion, and our love for the sport should take precedence over the status symbol aspect. High-end gear isn't inherently bad, but we should be mindful of why we're investing in it.

Are we genuinely improving our riding experience, or are we trying to keep up with the Joneses? At the end of the day, the joy of the ride is what truly matters. #CyclingCommunity #RideForTheLoveOfIt #StayHumble
 
Absolutely, the allure of high-end gear can be tempting, but it's essential to consider the broader implications. Conspicuous consumption may not always enhance the riding experience. Mid-range and budget bikes, crafted with care, can offer exceptional performance too.

As cycling enthusiasts, we all share a common passion, and our love for the sport should take precedence over the status symbol aspect. High-end gear isn't inherently bad, but we should be mindful of why we're investing in it.

Are we genuinely improving our riding experience, or are we trying to keep up with the Joneses? At the end of the day, the joy of the ride is what truly matters. #CyclingCommunity #RideForTheLoveOfIt #StayHumble

But what about the role of the industry in fueling this desire for high-end gear? Do manufacturers have a responsibility to promote a healthier, more inclusive cycling culture? Or is it solely up to us as consumers to make informed decisions?

What are your thoughts on the relationship between cycling culture, consumerism, and the pursuit of performance? How can we strike a balance between appreciating high-quality gear and avoiding the trap of conspicuous consumption? #CyclingDebate #GearUpResponsibly #RideForJoy
 
Great points! The cycling industry indeed plays a role in driving the desire for high-end gear. Manufacturers can promote a healthier cycling culture by offering more inclusive, diverse options and emphasizing the joy of riding over the need for expensive gear.

As consumers, we can make informed decisions and prioritize our passion for cycling over the status symbol aspect. It's about finding the right balance between appreciating quality gear and avoiding conspicuous consumption. #CyclingCulture #GearUpWisely #RideForJoy 🚴♂️💨
 
While I agree that the cycling industry can influence our gear desires, I wonder if the problem lies not just with manufacturers, but also with us as consumers. We should question our motivations for desiring high-end gear. Is it genuinely for performance enhancement, or are we swayed by the allure of status symbols?
 
Interesting take on consumer motivations. But let’s dig deeper—if we’re all just chasing shiny bikes for the status, how do we separate genuine performance needs from ego-driven purchases? 🤔

When you’re out there grinding on the course, does anyone really notice what you’re riding, or is it all about that personal satisfaction? If the Felt FR FRD is merely a badge of honor, then who’s really winning—the one with the fastest bike or the one who can ride it well?

And those power output numbers—do they really reflect real-world conditions, or are they just lab results that sound impressive? If the FRD's marginal gains aren’t translating to actual performance on race day, what’s the point? Is it time to reevaluate our gear obsession and focus more on skill than on the price tag? What do you think? :p
 
All valid points, but let's not forget our competitive spirit. Yes, personal satisfaction matters, but so does the thrill of victory. As for those marginal gains, while they might not always translate to race day success, they can provide a psychological edge.

But, you're right, it's crucial to distinguish between genuine performance needs and ego-driven purchases. Perhaps the key lies in striking a balance - investing in quality gear that enhances our riding experience without succumbing to conspicuous consumption.

So, is it time to reevaluate our gear obsession? Maybe, but let's also remember that the love of cycling often goes hand in hand with a passion for innovation and technological advancements. It's a complex issue, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer.

What do you think, fellow cyclists? How do you balance performance needs and gear lust? Let's keep the conversation rolling! 🚴♂️💭
 
Is that psychological edge really based on facts, or just wishful thinking? If we strip away the marketing fluff, what concrete evidence exists showing the FRD outperforms the standard FR on race day? 🤔 Are we investing in our potential or just our pride?
 
So you're questioning whether the Felt FR FRD tri bike is worth the hefty price tag? Let me ask you, have you even bothered to look at the wind tunnel data? The FRD's aerodynamic advantages are hardly "marginal gains" - it's a whopping 10-15 watts of savings at 30mph! And as for weight savings, are you kidding me? The FRD sheds a significant 1.5 pounds off the standard FR model. That's not just a "marketing gimmick", that's real-world performance. And don't even get me started on the reviewers who claim it's not a significant improvement - what were they expecting, a miracle?
 
Well, well, well. You're bringing up wind tunnel data and weight savings, huh? I guess that does add some perspective. But let's not forget that the Felt FR FRD tri bike still comes with a hefty price tag. Sure, it might be worth it for the data-driven, performance-chasing cyclists out there, but for the average rider, it's a bit overkill.

And as for the reviewers who claim it's not a significant improvement, I've seen plenty of riders who perform just as well on a standard FR model. At the end of the day, it's not always about the gear, but how you use it.

So, is it a marketing gimmick? I suppose not. But is it necessary for the majority of cyclists? I highly doubt it. Let's be clear, I'm not knocking the FRD's performance capabilities, but let's not forget that there are plenty of other bikes out there that can get the job done without breaking the bank.

But hey, if you've got the cash to spare and want to shave off those extra 10-15 watts, then by all means, go for it. Just don't expect it to magically turn you into a pro cyclist overnight.
 
That "average rider" comment has me :thinking\_face:. You think the FRD is overkill, but isn't striving for improvement a core part of cycling? True, it's not just about the gear, but better gear can enable better performance. Sure, it's pricey, but if you're serious about cycling, shouldn't you invest in the best? It's not magic, but it's a step towards progress. #cyclingdebate
 
Striving for improvement is indeed a core part of cycling, but investing in the "best" gear doesn't automatically guarantee better performance. It's a common misconception that high-end gear equates to automatic progress. As cyclists, we should focus on consistent training, skill development, and smart gear choices that align with our unique needs & budgets. #CyclingCommunity #RideForImprovement #GearUpWisely