Bike Spotlight: Swimfan's Felt DA

So many bikes are simply that, bicycles. But, rarely, one will be built up with a perfect regard to the dual importance of aesthetics and performance. Swimfan's Felt DA is just such a machine, and that's really the only way that I can describe it.

I have decided that this bike's most likely origin is that it was sent back in time to crush the dreams of all modern bicycles.

Swimfan, a notorious poster on Slowtwitch's forums, posted these photos in response to a thread about participants posting their rides for the upcoming (at the time) Ironman Wisconsin. His post inspired me to add a section to my blog demonstrating tri bikes that are built up essentially without flaw. It's a PSA to the triathlete currently building up or modifying their bike.

Though much could be written of the machine in a thorough review, I'll post some of the highlights that caught my eye:

-The overall complementary color scheme: the black and white lines on the frame perfectly match the white Zipp Decals on the wheelset. The black bottles, cages, black saddle, tires, cable housings,  and HED Aerobar complete the ensemble.

-The top-notch component spec: the Dura-Ace componentry (with honorable mention to the beautiful crankset), Zipp 808 front wheel, Zipp disk, HED Aerobar, Fizik Arione saddle, and Look Keo pedals.

-The Hutchinson Fast Air strapped aerodynamically to the top tube. In the war of Clinchers vs. Tubulars, Swimfan's sided with the Tubies and has this sealant/compressed air mounted in case of a flat. To change a tubular would require at least 15min, but with the proper operation of the Fast Air, he can be back on the road in possibly less than a minute.

-The trim cable housing. No excess. You'd be surprised how pervasive this problem is on time trial machines.

-The Aerobar-mounted standard bottle. This is my preferred method of hydration referenced in my earlier introduction of aerobottles. Swimfan devised an attractive and convenient method of attachment with the use of a Profile Aerodrink bracket and a carbon bottle cage.

Even the bar tape is in perfect condition. Notice the extensions come together for a narrow presentation of the arms.

- An additional detail, among many, include the forward position of the saddle for an aggressive geometry.

All I can say is that, while many bikes merely deserve a passing glance, this DA deserves an extended pause which elevates into a standing slow clap. Well done.

Thanks to Swimfan for letting me post these pictures. Check out the thread here.