Giant Propel Advanced SL: A New Generation of Aero Road Bikes
Giant has unveiled the latest iteration of its Propel aero road bike, engineered to maximize speed and performance without compromising weight or handling. The updated model features a lighter frame, enhanced aerodynamic design and a more integrated system approach to bike and rider interaction.
Key Improvements in the New Propel
The flagship model, the Propel Advanced SL 0, achieves a remarkable weight of 6.56 kg in size M, a significant accomplishment for a competition-ready aero bike. In certain configurations, it even falls below the UCI’s minimum weight limit, demonstrating the extent of optimization in this new generation.
According to Giant, the combined improvements result in an 18.4-watt advantage at 40 km/h compared to the previous Propel generation, stemming from reduced aerodynamic drag, lower rolling resistance, and increased power transmission efficiency.
Total Speed System Approach
The new Propel is built around Giant’s Total Speed System concept, which views the bike as a unified system where aerodynamics, mechanical efficiency, and control perform in harmony. Rather than solely focusing on frame optimization, Giant has developed an integrated set of components – including wheels, tires, cockpit, and geometry – to maximize real-world speed.
Engineers utilized Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations, wind tunnel testing, and on-road testing with riders from the Jayco AlUla WorldTour team. A dynamically articulated mannequin, created through 3D printing, was similarly employed to study airflow around the cyclist and bike with greater precision.
Refined Frame and Increased Tire Clearance
The frame retains the Propel’s aerodynamic profile but incorporates significant design changes to improve efficiency and ride quality. Notable modifications include lower seat stays, which contribute to increased rear-end compliance.
These changes, along with a revised carbon layup, improve vertical flex in the rear of the frame by approximately 25%, enhancing comfort and reducing fatigue over long distances. The frame also accommodates tires up to 32mm wide, aligning with the trend towards wider tires in modern road cycling.
Advanced SL models utilize Giant’s highest-grade carbon fiber and an integrated Vector seatpost, while Advanced Pro and Advanced models feature an aero telescopic seatpost and a slightly different carbon construction to manage cost.
Integrated and Narrower Cockpit
A key update is found at the front of the bike. The new Propel adopts a one-piece integrated cockpit in the higher-end versions, designed to minimize aerodynamic drag and reduce weight. The Contact SLR Aero handlebar features a flat top section and a narrower width at the lever position to reduce the cyclist’s frontal area. The drops maintain a slight flare for improved control in aggressive riding positions.
This evolution aligns with the current trend in professional cycling towards narrower handlebars, which enhance aerodynamic penetration without sacrificing stability.
Wheels and Tires as a System
Significant efficiency gains also come from the wheels and tires. Advanced SL models are equipped with the new Cadex Max 50 wheels, featuring carbon spokes directly integrated into the hub for reduced weight and increased stiffness. These 50mm-deep wheels are part of an aerodynamic system alongside the Cadex Aero tires, designed to improve airflow and reduce rolling resistance.
Advanced Pro models feature Giant SLR 0 50 wheels with carbon spokes, while more accessible setups utilize various carbon or aluminum wheel options.
All Propel versions leverage hookless rims compatible with tubeless systems and come standard with 28mm tires, offering improved efficiency and comfort compared to narrower tires used in previous generations.
Lighter Weight, Maintained Aero DNA
The combined changes in the frame, cockpit, wheels, and tires have resulted in a total weight reduction of approximately 350 grams compared to the previous generation. In the top-tier Propel Advanced SL 0 model, this weight reduction is coupled with improvements in torsional stiffness and pedaling efficiency, delivering a more responsive feel when applying power.
Despite the weight reduction, Giant asserts that the new Propel retains its core identity as a versatile aero bike, capable of excelling in sprints, attacks, long rides, and even hilly terrain.
Propel Model Lineup and Pricing
Propel Advanced SL
- Propel Advanced SL 0 Red – Superspeed Blue – €11,999
- Propel Advanced SL 0 DA – Prism Pearl – €11,499
- Propel Advanced SL 1 – Raw Carbon – €8,199
- Propel Advanced SL Frameset – Cyber Sunset – €3,999
- Propel Advanced SL Frameset Team – €4,099
Propel Advanced Pro
- Propel Advanced Pro DA – Supernova Grey – €8,299
- Propel Advanced Pro 0 AXS – Obsidian Pulse – €6,599
- Propel Advanced Pro 0 Di2 – Obsidian Pulse – €6,599
- Propel Advanced Pro 1 AXS – Cryo Silver – €5,399
- Propel Advanced Pro 1 Di2 – Cryo Silver – €5,399
- Propel Advanced Pro Frameset – €2,599
Propel Advanced
- Propel Advanced 1 – Carbon – €4,199
- Propel Advanced 2 – White – €2,799
For more information and complete specifications, visit the official Giant website.