I'm getting my first tri bike after a few seasons on a road bike with aero bars and have narrowed my choice down basically to the Cervelo Dual, which my LBS is selling for $1,650 with DA componetry. Fits great and rode as well as carbon bikes in my price range (<2,500). My question is, is the P2SL at $2,200 (also DA) worth it? From what I've read on the Cervelo site and what I've heard from asking people, the only difference is the rear wheel cut out. So, is that worth $550?

no use that 550 for better wheels that will make a difference. then get a professsional fit if there is a shop that offers one.

I am in the exaxct same position. Considering I will not be investing in a nice wheelset at this point, what about the differences in the stock wheels on the Dual versus the P2?

IMHO the Dual is one of the buys of the century right now. It's a great bike and the component list is awesome for the price. If you're not attached to that LBS, look around a bit, too. I got the new Excel catalog in the mail a few days ago and they have 2006 duals on sale for like $1400.

Duffy, stock wheels are OK spec on both. Neither is gonna be very aero or high performance, but hey - they're stock wheels.

Thanks guys, decision made: Dual it is!