The New Budget King? (with one major flaw) | NorCal Cycling
Source: NorCal Cycling Youtube Channel: The New Budget King? (with one major flaw)
Video The New Budget King? (with one major flaw) with NorCal Cycling
Video The New Budget King? (with one major flaw) with NorCal Cycling YouTube Channel.
The New Budget King? (with one major flaw)
NorCal Cycling: Deciding Between Value and Performance
When it comes to choosing a new bike, cyclists are often faced with a difficult decision: do they go for a relatively unknown brand that offers great value or do they splurge on a high-end flagship model from a mainstream brand? This dilemma was put to the test in a recent YouTube video featuring the Polygon Helios and the Scott Foil RC Pro. Both bikes are carbon race bikes with aero tube sections, integrated carbon cockpits, and Shimano Dura Ace Di2 components. The Scott Foil RC Pro comes with a price tag of $9,000 (on sale for $7,000), while the Polygon Helios is priced at $4,500. The question then becomes, is the Scott Foil worth the extra cost, or can the Polygon Helios hold its own against its more expensive counterpart?
Aerodynamic Testing: Unveiling the Performance Difference
To answer this question, the YouTuber conducted a series of aerodynamic tests on both bikes. Using a 7.6-mile out and back loop, the cyclist rode each bike with the same power meter, in the same position, and wearing the same clothes. A key tool used in the testing was the Arrow Buddy, which measured the distance from the stem to the head and torso in real time to ensure consistent positioning on the bike. The results of the testing revealed that the Scott Foil completed the loop in 19 minutes and 29 seconds, while the Polygon Helios finished in 19 minutes and 48 seconds. Despite the slight difference in time, the Scott Foil emerged as the more aerodynamic bike, edging out the Polygon Helios by 1.6%.
Identifying the Performance Gap: Wheelset Optimization
Upon analyzing the data, the YouTuber hypothesized that the performance gap between the two bikes could be attributed to the wheels. The stock wheels on the Polygon Helios were not optimized for speed and were heavier compared to high-performance alternatives. To put this theory to the test, the cyclist swapped out the stock wheels for a high-performance set of reserves during a bonus third test run. The results were nothing short of astonishing, with the Polygon Helios completing the loop in 18 minutes and 51 seconds, outperforming the Scott Foil and showcasing the significant impact of an optimized wheelset on overall speed and performance.
Ride Quality: Comfort and Compliance
In addition to the aerodynamic performance, the YouTuber also evaluated the ride quality of both bikes. The Scott Foil was noted for its stiffness, providing a responsive and snappy ride experience. On the other hand, the Polygon Helios offered a more comfortable and compliant ride, albeit at the expense of some acceleration. The difference in ride quality can be attributed to factors such as carbon layup and weight, with the Scott Foil being a pound or more heavier than the Polygon Helios. While the ride quality of the two bikes varied, the YouTuber emphasized that the decision between stiffness and comfort ultimately came down to personal preference and riding style.
Recommendation: Balancing Performance and Value
After conducting thorough testing and evaluating the performance of both bikes, the YouTuber presented their recommendation to viewers. While the Scott Foil emerged as the faster and more aerodynamic option, the Polygon Helios offered exceptional value at half the price. With the option to upgrade the wheelset for race days, cyclists can enjoy the best of both worlds, using the Polygon Helios as a reliable training bike and transitioning to high-performance wheels for competitive events. Ultimately, the decision between the two bikes comes down to individual priorities, whether it be maximizing speed and performance or striking a balance between value and functionality.
Conclusion
In the world of cycling, the choice between value and performance is a nuanced decision that each cyclist must make based on their unique preferences and priorities. The comparison between the Polygon Helios and the Scott Foil RC Pro sheds light on the importance of aerodynamics, wheelset optimization, and ride quality in determining the overall performance of a bike. While the Scott Foil may outshine the Polygon Helios in terms of speed and aerodynamics, the latter offers a compelling option for budget-conscious cyclists looking for a reliable and versatile ride. Ultimately, the decision lies in finding the right balance between performance, value, and personal preference to ensure an optimal cycling experience.
The opinions expressed in this space are the sole responsibility of the YouTube Channel NorCal Cycling and do not necessarily represent the views of CicloNews.
