Triathlon / Time Trial Build
Low Miles: Near Pristine
Shimano Ultegra Groupset
Wheels: Mavic Open Pro (Not shown in photos)
Background
Kestrel Bicycles was a pioneer, bringing the first monocoque (single piece vs lugged tubes) carbon fiber frame to the market in the 1980s. They continued innovating until 2007 when they were bought by Advanced Sport International (ASI), who already owned Fuji and SE brands. ASI moved Kestrel Production to Taiwan, and continued as such until their bankruptcy in 2018. No Kestrel Bikes have been made since 2018.
Kestrel bikes were top of the line especially in TT/Triathlon, being simultaneously light, aerodynamic and comfortable. This bike is more than a historical piece: though not on par with today's top of the line machines, it performs more than well enough to suit those not wanting to spend $10-12K.
Upgrades
This Kestrel Talon has stock components with the following upgrades.
- Fizik Arione Saddle
- Thompson Elite Seatpost
- Michelin Pro4 Tires
Condition
This Kestrel Talon is in very good to excellent shape. It rides flawlessly. Shifting is crisp and precise; braking is strong with ample modulation. The wheels are true and round; they spin up quickly; they roll very smoothly.
The frame is structurally sound with no cracks, no delamination, and no exposed carbon.
Cosmetically the bike has just a few superficial scrapes/scratches. None went any deeper than the primer paint. To protect the carbon, a few scratches were touched up[. Please examine the photos and judge cosmetic condition for yourself.
The following flaws can be seen in the photo
- The fabric covering the arm rests is coming unglued, and the pads are worn.
- The tip of the quick release lever of the rear Ultegra brake was broken off. If functions properly, just requiring a bit more effort to flip.
Specs
Frame: Monocoque carbon fiber construction
Fork: EMS Pro OS carbon fiber with alloy steering tube
Headset: Cane Creek S2
Handlebar: Profile Design Stoker base bar
Stem: Easton EA50
Brake Levers: Cane Creek TT200 Time Trial Levers
Shifter: Shimano Dura Ace SL-BS77 9 Speed
Rear Derailleur: Shimano Ultegra RD-6500 9 Speed
Front Derailleur: Shimano Ultegra FD-6500 Double
Crankset: Shimano Ultegra FC-6501 Double Chainring (53-39T) 172.4mm arm length
Bottom Bracket: Shimano Ultegra BB-6500 109.5mm spindle
Brakes: Shimano Ultegra BR-6500 Dual Pivot with Shimano Dura Ace brake pad
Saddle: Fizik Arione
Seatpost: Thompson Elite
Cassette: SRAM 9-Speed 11-25T
Wheelset: Mavic Open Pro.
Tires: Michelin Pro4
Pedals: Choice Shimano SPD or SPD SL (look style)