Just like the new ONE aero road bike last week, Factor also has sped up their split downtube SLiCK TT/Tri bike. The latest iteration of the bike evolves aero to the next level, including a healthy dose of triathlon-friendly integration.
SLiCK, split downtube carbon TT & triathlon bike
The big updates to the Slick further integration targeted at the triathlete. The new triathlon-specific accessories also now come stock with the bike. The storage system dubbed ‘StoraPak’ centers on the aero-shaped carbon box that attaches to the seatpost, with room for two tubes, tire levers, two CO2s & an inflater, plus a multi-tool. It also includes new toptube bosses and a between-the-arms (BTA) drink system mount on the aero bar’s upper bridge.
Widely set fork legs and seatstays carry over on the UCI approved frameset, to allow smooth air movement around the wheels. The asymmetric Twin Vane Evo split downtube also remains unchanged, as does the split in the lower seattube which is said to prevent air pressure build-up where the spinning rear wheel tucks into the seattube.
The bike is designed to clear 28mm tires front & rear. While you don’t see many riders racing against the clock on wide tires yet, their proven lower rolling resistance likely makes them a great choice, especially on the rear wheel where frontal are of the tire is not a concern. The Slick also features a removable front derailleur hanger for clean & aero 1x drivetrain setups. And it has its own cam-activated direct mount brake hidden in the fork, but easily accessible for servicing.
51 Speedshop Mono-Riser Aerobar adjustability
Factor paired with the new global fit collective of 51 Speedshop to get buyers of the Slick on their bike optimized for the best balance of comfort, pedaling output, and reduced aerodynamics. Together Factor developed the cockpit for the Slick with 51 Speedshop to build in fine-tuning and integration.
That mono-riser aerobar system plays a big part in fit, offering a wide range of adjustability in stack, reach & arm position. The bolt-on 51 Speedshop Mono-Riser Aerobar features a Kamm tail carbon base bar, 142-255mm arm pad width options, 0-60mm stack adjustability, and three different extension shapes. Add that to a 0mm or +40mm integrated stem to fit any TT or tri setup.
Availability
The Factor Slick is available in a four size (S-XL) range, and with 0 or 25mm offset seatposts. The bike is available as a framekit including frame, fork, seatpost, handlebar, stem, headset & BB for $6300€. Or you can get it as a $8100€ rolling chassis including Black Inc 80mm deep carbon wheels. Complete bike builds are not currently available.
With the new iteration of the Slick, Factor is even bringing the updates to earlier customers. It seems they had a number of back orders for the previous generation TT bike, and those buyers were the first to get the newest bike from its first production run a couple of weeks ago. A second run bringing availability to Factor’s full dealer network was said to have gone out this week.
