Note
Calf aggravated after last Saturday's ride, probably scar tissue being pushed too far, with the ride finishing with two long hills.
New Giant Propel Advanced 1 arrived, identical to 2017 model but nearly 30% cheaper. Swopping (Ebay near new and new) semi-compact crankset 52/36 for 50/34, also swopping the 6700 11-28 11 speed cassette for Sram 11-28 with closer mid ratios (straight 11-17). Bought small frame which came with a generous 40mm of spacers, so at highest just 10mm below current endurance set up, but can go 30mm lower than Defy can. Reach geometry is same as current Defy medium that will be the "winter" bike. To complete the aero package bought micro pump (fits in small saddle bag rather than next to water bottle), s/h £60 Bontrager Ballista aero road helmet (good buy!), s/h aero bottle, probably unnecessary and too small, as the frame is optimised for normal water bottles. Yet to fit everything, bought the tools too! Figured the cost will be the same as LBS will charge to fit parts. The question still to be answered is how much quicker is it!!? Anything less than a 1k/hr would be disappointing, my guess is around 1.2k/hr or just under 4.5%. Not like for like, with the extra bits and 10mm handlebar drop.