Decathlon TRIBAN RC520 Disc Road Bike – 105 Review
- MSRP: $1,499.00
- Frame: Aluminium
- Wheels: 700×28c
- Drivetrain: 2 × 11
What we like about it: A high-performance road bike for everyone at a great price.
What we don’t like about it: The weight is not light enough.
Rating (4.75/5)
The Decathlon TRIBAN RC520 Disc Road Bike – 105 is one of the highest specification products in the Decathlon Triban bike series. It’s a high-performance road bike that is suitable for daily commuting and amateur professional riders. It adopts the latest design concept and a brand new Triban Evo aluminum frame made according to a comfort-oriented geometry. The new Triban Evo carbon fiber fork also improves the shock absorption effect on the front, providing a more comfortable ride.
The reliable Shimano 105 system gearset and TRP HY/RD disc brakes dictate the operation of the Triban Tubeless Ready Light wheels for a simpler, more relaxed ride. All the carefully designed details are there to provide the rider with a comprehensive sense of comfort.
Therefore, at $1499, the Triban RC 520 Disc crosses the boundary between entry-level and mid-range, providing a super high cost-effective solution for anyone looking to experience a high-performance road bike.
In the following review, we will analyze the riding experience and specifications of the Decathlon TRIBAN RC520 Disc Road Bike – 105. If you want to learn more about bike reviews, you can follow us.
Decathlon TRIBAN RC520 Disc Road Bike General Riding
As a road bike, TRIBAN RC520 Disc Road Bike – 105’s road ride also made me quite satisfied. After riding in it for 6 months, I am happy to share my riding experience.
Comfortable Sitting Position
While riding, I was first drawn to the Decathlon Triban RC 520 Disc’s new Triban Evo aluminum frame. It’s strong and durable, and while not light enough, the comfortable geometry allowed me to sit in a nearly upright position. The pedaling is also very smooth and fluid, which also gives me a lighter riding feel. And the carbon fork makes the front of the vehicle smoother, allowing for a better grasp of the vehicle’s direction of travel while driving, making it easier to drive on the road and easier to control.
At the same time, the soft and comfortable Triban ErgoFit saddle provides a comfortable riding experience. It offers better support for my hips, even during long rides when fatigue is more likely to set in. The anti-slip and lubricating layers of the saddle provide a comfortable and pleasant ride. The elegant design of the Triban seat post adds to the overall comfort of the bike. It is easy to tighten and adjust the height for a more customized and comfortable ride.
Moreover, the TRIBAN RC520 Disc Road Bike features an aluminum Triban handlebar with an excellent grip that makes controlling the bike much easier. The advanced design of the bike makes its center of gravity more stable, allowing for more stable and reliable riding.
Climbing and Descending
When riding the Decathlon Triban RC520 Disc, I am very satisfied with its climbing and descending performance.
The reliable Shimano 105 drivetrain system has improved the performance and stability of my climbing journey. As we know, climbing is a very physically demanding activity. However, after riding this bike, I found that it made it easier for me to climb uphill.
With the 2×11 gear system, the TRIBAN RC520 Disc Road Bike can meet my different needs. When climbing, I can choose the appropriate gear based on the slope, making uphill cycling easier. Even when facing steep hills, I only feel a little bit of soreness in my legs, but not uncomfortable. This degree of lactic acid build-up does not slow down my pedaling frequency. Since I have not yet had to stand up and exert more force, the bike easily reaches the peak of the hill.
Riding the Decathlon Triban RC520 Disc on the road is an exciting experience. While riding, I can feel the breeze lightly brushing against my cheeks, warm and soft, giving me a sense of freedom. I never have to worry about safety issues because the TRP HY/RD disc brakes can effectively control the bike’s speed. With the line-controlled hydraulic piston and semi-metallic TRP pads, it can distribute the braking force evenly, reducing the possibility of sudden braking.
Reliable Design
It is worth mentioning that the excellent performance of the Decathlon Triban RC520 Disc is inseparable from its meticulous design.
Although it is easy to overlook when the wheels are spinning rapidly on the road, we cannot deny the contribution it makes. The sturdy aluminum Triban Tubeless Ready Light wheels are arranged with interlocking spokes, providing unprecedented safety and comfort.
This design ensures rigidity while providing more even weight distribution for the Triban protect light tires, ensuring safety and comfort.
Speaking of the Triban Resist+ tires, I have to be impressed by their fast rolling ability. With a width of 700x28c, it is lightweight and fasts for road riding. Although relatively narrow, it still has decent grip and shock absorption. At least when encountering sandy road sections, the bike goes through smoothly without making my palms feel numb.
Finally, I also like the double side pedal with toe clips. it has a good grip and bites easily into my locking shoes, making long rides much easier and less stressful. And when I need to slow down or stop, I only need to move my ankle a little bit to break free easily, safely, and reliably.
Specification
Although the Decathlon Triban RC520 Disc has some room for improvement in terms of weight compared to those lightweight road bikes, its fully-featured aluminum frame is extremely sturdy and durable. The lightweight carbon fiber fork not only has excellent lateral stiffness but also filters out all frontal vibrations.
Equipped with the Shimano 105 transmission system, featuring reliable R7000 shifters, and Shimano 105 R7000 front, and rear derailleurs, it offers a 2×11 speed range, helping riders climb or descend faster and more easily. And with the TRP HY/RD disc brakes, cycling becomes safer thanks to its excellent braking performance.
Finally, the Triban Protect Light tires support fast rolling and not only have puncture protection but also decent grip and shock absorption, ensuring fast and comfortable rides on the road.
What do we like about it?
- Reasonably priced cost-effective road bikes.
- Comfortable and relaxed geometry for riders to enjoy a comfortable ride and endurance ride.
- The Triban Evo fork features carbon fiber inserts and a 1-1/8″ aluminum front bowl set center for improved comfort.
- Details of the seat post seat saddle and other configurations are impressive.
- The cost-effective Shimano 105 shifting system combined with the hybrid TRP HY/RD disc brakes, the bike’s riding performance is guaranteed.
- 700 x 28c tires with puncture protection for faster rotation
- The frame, handlebar, and handlebars have a lifetime warranty promise, and the fork and peripheral parts enjoy a 2-year quality guarantee.
What don’t we like about it?
- The overall vehicle weight does not have an absolute advantage.
FAQs
- Where can I buy Decathlon TRIBAN RC520 Disc Road Bike – 105?
I booked through the Decathlon website and it was a very convenient and satisfying shopping trip. Of course, you can also go to a local authorized dealer to buy.
- How heavy is this Decathlon TRIBAN RC520 Disc?
I have weighed the bike, M-size bike weighs about 10.56kg, not light, but at this price point is also appropriate.
- What size Decathlon TRIBAN RC520 should I buy?
I am 178cm tall, purchased the L size, feel comfortable to ride, hands and feet are fully stretched, and did not feel the body was comfortable.
(On the purchase size you can refer to the size chart below, but grasp the size on a good way is to go for a test ride bike.)
| Rider Height (cm) | Frame Size |
| 150-164cm | XS |
| 165-174 cm | M |
| 175-184 cm | L |
| 185-200cm | XL |
Decathlon TRIBAN RC520 Disc Road Bike – 105 Specs
Build
| Frame | New Triban Evo frame in 6061 T6 aluminium, comfort-oriented geometry with adapted sloping Weight: 1780 g in size M. Strong, versatile frame: can be fitted with a mudguard and pannier rack with a mudguard and pannier rack Compatible with tyres up to 700×36 or 650×40 |
| Fork | New Triban Evo fork with carbon blades and aluminium 1″1/8 Aheadset steerer tube. This fork combines comfort, low weight (680g), and precision. The carbon has been machined to provide good lateral rigidity and good filtering of frontal vibrations. Inserts on blades for mounting a front pannier rack. Maximum load on the fork: 9kg, Holes on the wheel axle for attaching a mudguard Compatible with tyres up to 700×36 or 650×40 |
| Pedals | Platform pedals included with the bike. |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano 105 R7000, 11 spd |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano 105 R7000, 11 spd |
| Crank | Microshift CS-H110 11S 11/32 cassette (11/12/13/14/15/17/19/21/24/28/32). Shimano RS 510 compact crankset 50/34. Crank length varies according to size of bike: XS, S: 170 mm.M: 172,5mm.L, XL: 175 mm. |
| Cassette | Microshift CS-H110 11S 11/32 cassette (11/12/13/14/15/17/19/21/24/28/32). Shimano RS 510 compact crankset 50/34. Crank length varies according to size of bike: XS, S: 170 mm.M: 172,5mm.L, XL: 175 mm. |
| Brakes | TRP HY/RD disc brakes. Cable-operated hydraulic pistons, ensuring reliability and efficiency 160mm disc at the front and rear Anti-compression Jagwire housing to ensure braking precision and efficiency Semi-metallic TRP pad (M515/M525 version) |
Wheels
| Rims | Triban Tubeless Ready* Light wheels 9mm Quick Release (QR) axle Aluminium 6106T6 ETRTO Dimension: 622 x 17C 24 mm height for increased lateral rigidity. Crossed steel spokes for greater rigidity (28 front and 28 rear). Weight per pair (without cassette and QR): 2000 g * To switch to Tubeless, you’ll need a pair of Tubeless Ready tyres and a conversion kit including 2 tubeless valves + 2 rim strips + bottle of anti-puncture liquid |
| Tires | Triban Resist+ tyres 410 g Skinwall stiff bead 1 mm nylon anti-puncture protection Durable carcass: 55 TPI. Dimensions: 28c-622 / 700 x 28c for greater Max. pressure: 8 bar / 116 psi.These tyres are NOT Tubeless Ready |
Video
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Price | Gear | Brakes | Tires | Click view |
| KABON Carbon Road Bike | $1,499.00 | 2×11 | PRO A8000 ED Oil disc brake | 700×28c | Click view |
| SAVADECK Carbon Road Bike | $1,399.00 | 2×11 | Rim | 700×47c | Click view |
| HEAD Pava 22 Speed Aluminum Road | What? | 2×11 | Tektro dual-piston disc brakes | 700×28c | Click view |
| SAVADECK R8 Road Bicycle | $1,149.00 | 2×9 | Rim | 700×25c | Click view |
Decathlon TRIBAN RC520 Disc Road Bike – 105 vs KABON Carbon Road Bike
We acknowledge that the weight of the Decathlon TRIBAN RC520 Disc Road Bike is perhaps the most dissatisfying aspect, which has led to some attention being drawn towards the KABON Carbon Road Bike with a carbon fiber frame at the same price point. This bike also comes with the Shimano 105 R7000 transmission system and a combination of disc brakes, providing super-fast riding speeds.
However, for riders who want to experience leisurely endurance riding, the KABON Carbon Road Bike may not be the wisest choice. Its riding position is more aggressive with a racing-style design, requiring users to bend over and exert force for extended periods. Therefore, from a safety standpoint, this bike is not very suitable for urban road riding because of restricted visibility for the rider.
On the other hand, the geometry of the TRIBAN RC520 Disc is more relaxed and less picky about riding locations and riders, making it truly suitable for everyone.
Decathlon TRIBAN RC520 Disc Road Bike – 105 VS SAVADECK Carbon Road Bike
At first glance, the 700x47c tires of the SAVADECK Carbon Road Bike may offer better traction and shock absorption compared to the narrower 28c tires of the TRIBAN RC520 Disc Road Bike. However, the combination of such large tires and the Shimano 105 transmission system may make the bike appear somewhat uncoordinated.
This is because 47c tires are too focused on comfort for a road bike and sacrifice speed. On flat roads, wider tires are not very practical because the smooth surface itself offers high traction for all types of tires, and as long as the road is obstacle-free, the rider’s hands can remain comfortable for long periods without vibrations. However, a larger contact area with the ground means that the rider needs to exert more pedaling power to achieve the same level of speed as with a regular bike.
In addition, the rim brakes on the SAVADECK Carbon Road Bike can make riders feel less secure in wet conditions. Therefore, although the SAVADECK Carbon Road Bike may have lacked consideration in both tire selection and braking system, if you expect a lighter and more agile riding atmosphere on flat roads, the Decathlon TRIBAN RC520 Disc Road Bike would be more professional.
Decathlon TRIBAN RC520 Disc Road Bike – 105 VS HEAD Pava 22 Speed Aluminum Road Bike
The HEAD Pava road bike has many similarities with the Decathlon TRIBAN RC520 Disc. The combination of the aluminum alloy frame and carbon fiber fork with 28c tires makes the bike look very reliable. However, if you have ridden both bikes, you can easily feel the main difference between them.
Although the HEAD Pava road bike’s transmission system is also 2×11 speed, the L-Twoo R9 kit is incomparable to the Shimano 105 transmission system in terms of operation, precision, and smoothness of gear changes.
If you’re just looking for a bike for leisurely riding, the HEAD Pava is also a decent choice. But if you want to exceed your competitors in speed and performance, the TRIBAN RC520 Disc Road Bike will give you a satisfactory answer.
Decathlon TRIBAN RC520 Disc Road Bike – 105 VS SAVADECK R8 Road Bicycle
If you’re willing to sacrifice some handling and gear ratio range to get a cheaper road bike, the SAVADECK R8 Road Bicycle is a suitable option. But if you want to consider the bike’s value for money at a deeper level, you might hesitate.
The configuration of the $1,149.00 SAVADECK R8 Road Bicycle is quite average. The aluminum alloy frame with a carbon fiber fork is a decent offering for the price, but the SHIMANO SORA R3000 2×9 transmission system and rim brakes are somewhat lackluster, making the most important parts of the bike seem a bit perfunctory.
On the other hand, the $1499 TRIBAN RC520 Disc not only upgrades the transmission system to the Shimano 105 kit but also replaces the brakes with hydraulic discs. Most importantly, the SAVADECK R8 Road Bicycle does not have an absolute advantage in weight.
Therefore, overall, the value for money of the TRIBAN RC520 Disc is higher than that of the SAVADECK R8 Road Bicycle.
Summary
For anyone looking to start road cycling or upgrade from a very cheap first bike, the Decathlon TRIBAN RC520 Disc Road Bike is a reliable choice.
This bike, which prioritizes comfort, features a relaxed geometry aluminum frame and a carbon fiber fork that improves the rider’s front-end comfort.
Equipped with 11-speed Shimano 105 gears and shifters, as well as the hybrid power TRP HY/RD disc brakes, it bridges the gap between entry-level and mid-range bikes and becomes a high-performance road bike that lives up to its name.
So if you want to easily get good results in your cycling competitions with your friends, consider looking at this reliable road bike.
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