The advantage of aerodynamic efficiency is undeniable, but often that extra speed comes at the cost of other desirable attributes. In a road bike that can mean higher weight, reduced comfort and, although their bulky forms might not make it obvious, aero profiles can be worse in the stiffness stakes. The need for integrated everything makes setup and adjustment a practical pain too.
The Giant Propel has long been a fast bike but this latest iteration attempts to make it fast without the usual drawbacks.
The Propel claims to be around 6 watts more efficient than before at 40kmh, while the frameset is 9.2% stiffer, 85% more compliant at