The Giant TCR has been around for over two decades. We could say it’s a classic modern road bike but we would be contradicting ourselves. The TCR has always evolved, not really getting the time to become a ‘classic’ beyond the name. And while there are no frame updates for the Giant TCR this year, the availability of group sets and braking options through the range, from the $2099 TCR Advanced 3 up to the $11499 TCR Advanced SL 0 Disc means there’s a TCR model for almost any budget or preference.
Don’t miss our look at the 2018 Liv range!
The TCR Advanced SL 0 Disc. What’s not to like?
The TCR is a performance road bike, with sharp geometry that is focused on fast handling, plus low weight and aerodynamic cues to keep it fast. Looking through the range it’s hard to not be attracted to the top-tier TCR Advanced SL 0 Disc. With a full Shimano Dura Ace Di2 Disc group set, superlight Giant wheels and finishing kit, and the ever pro-looking integrated seatpost, this is the bike to look at if you never want to look for an excuse from your equipment. Ride this TCR and you just have to look into the mirror if you’re not happy with your performance.
But down the range there are some true stand outs. The TCR Advanced SL 1 Disc shares the same frame, but by dropping back to the new Ultegra group set and a change in wheels and parts you save about $4500 – as the bike sells for $6999. Which means if you could buy the bike, and go spend a couple of weeks smashing alpine cols in France, or bagging passos in the Dolomites, for the same total cost as the top model TCR (but you’ll probably have to slum it in 3 star hotels!).
Your guide to disc brake road bikes.
While the top models are also available in rim brake versions, with Cycling Australia’s announcement that disc brakes are allowed for road racing outside of National Championships and National Road Series events, they may suit only the purists and elite racers. We feel the majority of riders will be won over by the greater power and modulation of a disc brake.
The TCR Advanced SL 0 is just under 11k and suits the purist.
The Giant TCR Advanced 1 Disc is another stand out. At $3299 it has Giant’s Advanced grade composite frame and fork with 12mm through-axles, a Shimano 22-speed drivetrain with Ultegra drivetrain matched with RS505 shifters, and a tubeless ready wheel set.
The Giant TCR Advanced 1 Disc. #value
We hear there’s something new coming – but we didn’t get a look at anything at the launch.
Want all the details on the Giant TCR range? Head to the Giant website.