Parlee time trial bike

This vision of loveliness is Parlee's brand new time trial frameset. It's just landed in the UK and we were lucky enough to get a 'hands-on' earlier this week. To say we were impressed - and just a little excited - would be an understatement.

There've been some interesting developments in aerodynamics in the last few years, and this Parlee TT looks set to get all time triallists (and just a few triathletes) a little hot under the collar. It’s been in development for about two years but Parlee are now happy enough for it to go into production.

Parlee founder Bob Parlee comes from a background of designing high performance speed boats. His understanding of fluid dynamics has helped him create a frame with a low drag rating. Each section of the frame has been designed for the "specific demands of cycling and the variable wind conditions, so it's equally fast in a 0 degree (head-on) as in varying crosswind conditions.”

To achieve as slippery a profile as is possible, the cables are routed internally, finding their way into the frame behind the stem into the large oval shaped headtube. While the frontal area is reduced as much as possible, Parlee says it has stayed away from anything “gimmicky” in this area.

The rear brake caliper is mounted underneath the chainstays just behind the bottom bracket, and the seat tube is curved to fit around the rear wheel. There’s a new fork, with a long trailing edge to match the frame. And you need to watch your fingers on the seat stays as the trailing edges here are particularly sharp.

Parlee are offering each size with a choice for two head tube heights to help you get exactly the right fit. Further helping riders to get the perfect fit is the company’s own carbon multi-position seat post.