bike frame advice...

[Plainsman]

I'm looking at options here, and hoping that maybe someone can turn me on to a new idea. Can't afford a new bike (otherwise the P3C Ultegra is at the top of my list) so I was thinking about just buying a frameset. I have a decent Ultegra 10 group on my roadie I could move over. What would be the best bang for the buck? I currently ride an alum frame with carbon stays and love the ride, so the tri frame doesn't have to be carbon in my mind. I'm on a budget and want to find that sweet spot for quality vs. economy. (i.e., a $2000 frame would cost less than a $2500 Cervelo, but for that difference I would just as soon wait)

Thanks!

[cjbruin]

I've heard you can pick up the Cervelo P2 SL frameset for a bargain...though I haven't tried. The carbon Wolf forks are great. I bought one when they first came out and I'm happy I did.

[cslone]

P2SL complete is $1650. P2C frameset is $1800. I'd look at those two. LBS may be a little cheaper. For $1650 complete, the P2SL is hard to beat.

[Plainsman]

Two good suggestions. I'll look into those, thanks! Something else to throw in the mix - If I went in for something like a P2SL, I would still have the R500 wheelset. I know this goes against the premise of my post, but I would I be better served putting 1k into a wheelset, say some Flashpoint 80s, and keeping the road frame (forward post, tri saddle, etc already on it)? Saw some at the local LBS today - nice stuff! What is going to give me the best boost in speed, along with more training of course :) ?

[Triguy]

Biggest boost? A powermeter.

Hmmm, thats no fun though, ehh?....

Always go for the tri-frame/bike if you can afford it. Tri bikes are made to handle with the position in a certain manner.

Wheels can always be bought later.

Best bang for the buck in the tri-world right now is the Cervelo P2C in my opinion. The second best is the P2sl, it just lacks all the details(narrower headtube, bladed seatstays, more rear wheel coverage). I don't ride either, I myself have my eyes on the Trek TTX, though it definately isn't the best bang for the buck.