In the last couple of weeks I have been lucky enough to get myself a new Triathlon bike in preparation for the 2022 season. Having completed my first Olympic and 70.3 distance triathlons on a road bike, it is definitely well overdue to get something triathlon specific.
After a bit of research (where I considered bikes from Canyon and Quintana Roo), I settled on a 2021 Cervelo P3X from Cervelo Cycles
Once I have had the bike for a few months (maybe post my next big event), I will do a detailed review, but for now here are my first thoughts on my new P3X.
The Look
Aesthetically, the bike is a little unconventional, but is stunning and definitely eye catching to look at. One of my requirements was a bike that was at least partially blue in color and the blue/yellow colors of this bike definitely tick that box.
Having no rear seat stay is something quite unique, and gives the bike that ‘floating seat’ type look. While it looks not very stable, there is no noticeable difference to a traditional bike and the bike feels stiff and solid when riding.
The Cockpit
The cockpit of the P3X has a decent amount of adaptability. The bike has an Ultegra Di2 setup, giving shifters on the handlebars as well as on the ends of the TT bars. From mechanical set ups, this is a great change, meaning you can comfortably shift when not in the aero position (in and out of corners, for example).
The aero position is easy to adjust and I was able to find a comfortable position quite easily. I do notice that the position when on the outside bars (is that what you call them? Or should it be ‘hoods’ still?) is very aggressive and you definitely don’t want to be spending a lot of time there. They are also finished in a rubber finish that is abrasive on the hands – I think this could definitely be improved, but overall I am happy that this is my only gripe so far.
Storage and Hydration Options
When it comes to storage, the P3X really has no peers. It has three easy access storage points. Firstly, a nutrition box on the top tube, as well as an additional storage point between the top and bottom tubes, and a third storage point under the bottom tube (close to the front chain ring). This gives plenty of storage options for tools and nutrition alike.
While there is no hydration standard, I recently discovered a website called Custom Bike Excessories, who offer a Fuselage Bento Box for the P3X, which is pictured below.
As you can see above, the set up replaces the standard top tube bento box, and replaces it with a 700ml Hydration set up, meaning you can drink easily in the aero position. It also retains a small area for gels, allowing you to store a couple of these too. It works in conjunction with the hydration bag found on the Specialized Shiv bikes and is 3D printed in the US.
I have one on order and am eagerly awaiting it’s arrival in the next couple of weeks! For those interested, you can click the link above for more info. It is priced at $200 USD.
To Wrap Up…
To summarize, my first opinion of the P3X is that it is a unique, well equipped and highly spec’d bike that is perfect for a triathlete that wants a more premium TT Bike. With a retail price tag of just over $10,000 AUD, it is a pricey investment though. If you do look at purchasing one, keep in mind retailers will discount these bikes, and it’s not unusual to see discount in the realms of 15-20% off the RRP of the bikes.
Thanks for reading and I look forward to sharing my detailed review of the bike in the coming months!
The Specs
| Model | ULTEGRA DI2 ARC DISC |
| Fork | Cervélo All-Carbon, P3X Fork |
| Headset | FSA IS2 1-1/8 x 1-1/2″ |
| Wheels | DT Swiss P1800 Spline 32 Disc |
| Tires | Continental Grand Prix SL 25mm |
| Crankset | Shimano Ultegra 8000 52/36 |
| Bottom Bracket | Cervélo BBright Connect 24×90 |
| Chain | Shimano CN-HG701, 11 spd |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano Ultegra Di2 8050, 11 spd |
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Ultegra Di2 8050, 11 spd |
| Cassette | Shimano 105 R7000, 11 spd, 11-28 |
| Shifters | Shimano Dura Ace SW-R9160 |
| Handlebar | Cervélo HB10 Basebar and EX10 Aerobar |
| Brake Caliper | Shimano BR-9170 |
| Brake Rotor | Shimano SM-RT800, 160mm |
| Saddle | ISM PS 1.0 |
| Seatpost | Cervélo P5X Seatpost with Ritchey Head |
| Brake Levers | Shimano Dura Ace ST-9180 |
| Accessories | Smartpak Lite, SpeedCase, DT Storage Box, Rear Hydration Mount |
