Felt sold a lot of tri bikes in 2008 using a very simple formula- offer more bike for less money. The days of carbon bikes being exclusive to the $5000+ price point are over. The B12 offered a tremendous value at a price tag of just over $2700, and was one of the most in-demand bicycles of 2008 as a result. In 2009 Felt introduces another full carbon option to their line for under $2300- the B16.

All of the Felt TT/triathlon bikes come from the same mold as their top-of-the-line DA. The main difference between the DA and B16 frame is the modulus of carbon fiber used in construction. A higher modulus carbon fiber is more expensive and saves a bit of weight, but the difference in quality or performance is pretty minimal. What differentiates the various models is mainly componentry.

But the B16 as an entry level carbon bike is, by no means, ill-equipped. In fact, Felt uses a mix of Durace, 105, and FSA components, putting the most expensive pieces in just the right places. What I like about a bike like the B16 is that you have a great platform to upgrade for the future. Purchase a set of race wheels and perhaps a lighter crank set and you have a bike that can compete against models costing 3x the price. Even in it’s stock guise, the difference in performance between a B16 and a DA would likely be measured in seconds; all things being equal.

The frame is the same shape and geometry as the DA minus the bayonet front end. The front and rear wheels are fully faired into the frame; a design element we are seeing on most of the top end TT/triathlon bikes. The rear brake is tucked behind the seat tube/bottom bracket keeping it out of the slipstream. Cabling is internally routed into the frame keeping everything smooth and clean. Again, these are features traditionally found on only the top tier bicycles. The B16 is finished beautifully and is arguably one of the best looking bikes in their line.

The B16 uses an aero seat post, not a mast, which means it will fit in a bike box and has a dual position cradle. It comes in 7 sizes, including two 650 bikes, which is somewhat of a rarity. A common cost cutting method is to create less frame sets per model. The Felt aerobars are simple and adjustable making fitting a breeze. This is a bike that can be made comfortable for a beginner, yet progress to a very aggressive position if desired.

If you are looking for a high performance bike on a budget, the B16 delivers. I would surmise that in the wind tunnel the difference between the DA and B16 would be very, very small. The difference in weight is a few pounds but it would not be hard to put the B16 on a diet either. If you are an athlete that is looking to shave seconds off of your bike split, and have $9300 to spend, a bike like the DA is applicable. For most of us, the B16 is more than enough bike to pit against the competition; and we should probably spend more time working on the engine.