GIANT TCR ADVANCED PRO 0 VS GIANT PROPEL ADVANCED PRO 0

The Propel's frame is considerably beefer than the TCR's, a design specifically engineered to facilitate aerodynamic tube shapes, with the most notable difference at the front end. This oversizing is a deliberate choice to enhance aerodynamic performance. This can be seen clearly with the Bikotic visual comparison tool at the top of the page.

Additionally, the Propel's top tube is markedly more horizontal compared to the TCR's sloping design. This results in the Propel's seat stays appearing dropped, yet they are actually positioned slightly higher than those on the TCR.

The Propel also features a very chunky down tube, further emphasizing its aerodynamic focus. This design is complemented by specific water bottle cages that are optimized to maintain the bike's aerodynamic efficiency, when carrying bottles.

The forks on the Propel are much deeper than those on the TCR, again aligning with the theme of enhanced aerodynamics.

In terms of weight, the Propel is approximately 470 grams heavier than the TCR. However, lighter builds of the Propel are available, which brings into question the future of the TCR. As advancements continue in the design and materials of aerodynamic bikes like the Propel, it makes one wonder if the TCR might eventually become obsolete in the face of these increasingly efficient designs.

Both the Propel and TCR feature identical groupsets, but the Propel, being the newer model, boasts a few design enhancements. One of the key differences is its fully integrated cabling system, which contributes to its aerodynamic efficiency and cleaner aesthetic. Additionally, the Propel is equipped with the OverDrive Aero steerer.

In contrast, the TCR is equipped with the OverDrive 2 steerer which offers excellent stiffness and steering precision.

Although the seatposts of the Propel and TCR might appear identical at first glance, a closer examination reveals that they are indeed different. This distinction is likely a result of the Propel's emphasis on aerodynamics.

Both the Propel and TCR are equipped with the Carbon SLR1 wheelsets, yet they differ in the rim depth, reflecting their distinct design focuses. The Propel uses a 50mm deep rim, aligning with its aerodynamic orientation, whereas the TCR utilizes a 36mm deep rim, likely to favor a balance of aerodynamics and climbing efficiency. Using hookless rims for both wheelsets does restrict the tire options available and the maximum pressure that can be applied.

Despite these differences, both sets of wheels retail for the same price of £1198. They share the same rim inner width of 22.4mm, indicating a consistency in the wheel build and design philosophy across both models. There is a very slight weight difference between these two wheelsets of 76g - 1442g vs 1518g in the TCR's favour, but the deeper 50mm wheelset of the Propel will be more efficient once up to higher speeds.

Both bikes use the CADEX Race, tubeless, 700x25c (26.5mm), folding tires - Giant isn't opting for the more commonly used 28mm tires being used by other manufacturers. But both these bikes will be setup tubeless out the box, which is unusual. 

Both bikes feature the Giant Fleet SL saddle.

In conclusion, the only instance where I'd personally lean towards the TCR over the Propel would be if I were living in a particularly hilly area and had a preference for exposed cables, which are simpler to maintain. While it's possible that Giant might eventually move away from the TCR, given its popularity, this seems unlikely. However, for my needs, the Propel checks all the boxes and stands out as a highly competitive choice. Based on my consistently positive experiences with every Giant bike I've ridden or owned, the Giant Propel Advanced Pro 0 strikes me as an excellent purchase, albeit a bit on the pricey side!