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Expert Comparison: Decathlon Triban RC520 Disc Road Bike vs Decathlon Triban RC120 Disc Brake Aluminum Road Bike

Published on 02/11/2024 · 4 min readCompare Decathlon Triban RC520 Disc Road Bike and Decathlon Triban RC120 Disc Brake Aluminum Road Bike. Get expert insight below!
Leo C, Cycling Expert
Neal Friesen, Cycling Expert
Elias Lawson, Cycling Expert
Contributed By Cycling Expert Leo C, Neal Friesen, Elias Lawson, Frank Stec, Adam L. and others

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Side by side comparison

Out of stock
Decathlon Triban RC520 Disc Road Bike
Out of stock
Decathlon Triban RC120 Disc Brake Aluminum Road Bike
Price
$1,299.00
See Price and Details
Color options
--
Sub-category
Endurance
Touring
Bike frame material
Aluminum
Aluminum
Bike type
Road
Road
Age Group
Adult
Adult

In the world of road bikes, Decathlon has made a name for itself by offering high-quality bikes at affordable prices. Today, we're comparing two of their popular models: the Triban RC520 Disc Road Bike and the Triban RC120 Disc Brake Aluminum Road Bike. Both bikes are excellent choices for road cycling enthusiasts, but they cater to different needs and budgets. The RC520 is a high-performance bike with top-tier components, perfect for those who want to push their limits on the road. On the other hand, the RC120 is a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on quality, making it a great entry point for those new to road cycling.

Decathlon Triban RC520 Disc Road Bike summary

The Decathlon Triban RC520 Disc Road Bike is a marvel of engineering. It's a rare find to have a bike with 105 components at a sub $1,500 price point. This bike is designed for comfort, versatility, and precision. It features a comfort road geometry, 28mm tires, foam handlebar tape, and a new ErgoFit saddle to ensure a comfortable ride. The bike is also versatile, with inserts for a carrier and mudguard, a fork suitable for up to 36mm tires, and tubeless-ready wheels. The Shimano 105 R7000 groupset, front and rear derailleurs, and brake levers ensure precision in every ride. The bike's aluminum frame and carbon fork help reduce weight and vibration transfer, making for smoother and more comfortable rides. The 2x11 Shimano drivetrain provides a wide range of gearing for climbs and flats alike.

This is by FAR the BEST BIKE YOU CAN GET FOR YOUR MONEY for a Shimano 105 Drivetrain and hydraulic disc brakes! The Comparable Cannondale, Trek, and Specialized models cost $1900. Why pay more for a name on the frame when you can get perfection and high-quality craftsmanship right here?

Leo C
Cycling Expert

Decathlon Triban RC120 Disc Brake Aluminum Road Bike summary

The Decathlon Triban RC120 Disc Brake Aluminum Road Bike is a fantastic entry-level road bike. It's designed with an endurance geometry, providing a comfortable riding position for long distances. The bike features a 2x8 Shimano Claris Drivetrain, a 6061 Aluminum Frame, a Carbon Fiber Fork, and Mechanical Disc Brakes. The 700x28c Tubeless Ready Tires and internally routed cabling add to the bike's sleek design. Despite its affordable price, the RC120 doesn't compromise on quality. It's a great option for those looking to get into road biking without breaking the bank.

The Decathlon Triban RC120 is the most cost-effective road bike on the list. It's going to be a bit heavier than the other two bikes, but the build quality is sound. They cut a few corners by going with some off-brand components, but they have stood up well over time.

Neal Friesen
Cycling Expert

Similarities

Both the Triban RC520 and RC120 are designed with the rider's comfort in mind. They feature endurance-oriented geometry, which provides a comfortable riding position for long distances. Both bikes also come with a carbon fork, which helps reduce weight and vibration transfer, making for smoother and more comfortable rides. They also both feature disc brakes for reliable stopping power and are equipped with tubeless-ready tires. Additionally, both bikes come with pedals included, which is a nice touch.

Differences and Who They're Good For

While both bikes are excellent choices, they cater to different needs and budgets. The RC520 is a high-performance bike with top-tier components, making it perfect for serious road cyclists who want to push their limits. It's also a great choice for those who want to upgrade their bike over time, thanks to its versatile design.

On the other hand, the RC120 is a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on quality. It's a great entry point for those new to road cycling or those who want a reliable bike for commuting or fitness rides. However, it's not as well-suited for off-road or gravel riding due to its 28mm tires.

Analysis on Who’s the Winner

When it comes to performance, the RC520 takes the lead with its Shimano 105 components and hydraulic disc brakes. For comfort, it's a tie, as both bikes feature endurance-oriented geometry and a carbon fork for a smoother ride. In terms of versatility, the RC520 edges out with its ability to accommodate upgrades and its suitability for a wider range of tire sizes. However, for affordability, the RC120 is the clear winner, offering a quality road bike experience at a budget-friendly price.

Conclusions

In conclusion, both the Decathlon Triban RC520 Disc Road Bike and the Triban RC120 Disc Brake Aluminum Road Bike are excellent choices, each with its own strengths. The RC520 is a high-performance bike that offers top-tier components at an unbeatable price, making it perfect for serious road cyclists. On the other hand, the RC120 is a budget-friendly option that offers a quality road bike experience, making it a great choice for beginners or those looking for a reliable commuter bike. Ultimately, the best bike for you will depend on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Happy cycling!

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Decathlon Triban RC520 Disc Road Bike
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