August 29/13 7:51 am - Argon 18 Celebrates 25 Years in 2014

Posted by Editoress on 08/29/13
 

Earlier last week, Montreal-based Canadian bike company Argon 18 invited us to a preview of their 2014 line.  Next year will represent an impressive 25 years of business for founder Gervais Rioux.

Argon 18 focuses on road, triathlon and track; in fact, they have dropped their cyclo-cross model for next season, since they felt it did not offer the performance for value they are known for.

Gallium Pro

The biggest update for next season will be to the top line road models - the Gallium Pro and Gallium.  These are the bikes that are raced by the Italian continental squad Amore Vita, and were raced by Steve Bauer's Spidertech squad in previous years.

Both are carbon, designed by Argon 18 and built in Taiwan (as are most top composite bikes these days).  For 2014 the frame weight has been dropped by 10%, with brand new moulds designed for each size.  Each size has specific moulds and geometry, unlike some off-the-rack builders.  All models are Shimano Di2 ready, and are available as either frame sets or with a number of build kits - from Shimano Ultegra mechanical to the newest 11 speed Dura Ace Di2.  Suggested retails for complete bikes range from $3499 to $9749.  Below the Gallium series is the Krypton, which is now Di2 ready.

E118 TT/Tri

Argon is also known for its triathlon / time trial bikes - the E118 and E116.  They receive no major changes to the frame design for 2014, but do offer upgraded component options.  Both models meet UCI certification rules.

Electron track bike

Argon 18 also offers bikes to two under served markets - track and performance youth.  The Electron track bike is available in both a carbon (Electron Pro) and an entry level aluminum version (Electron), as both a complete bike and a frame set.  With the growing interest in track, and the new velodrome coming to Milton, these bikes offer good value; particularly the Electron as a complete bike for $1099.

Xenon

The Xenon is the youth bike Argon 18 offers, and is available with both 24" and 650b wheels.  Make no mistake, these are fully fledged road bikes, suitable for racing, and easily convertible to triathlon use.  Prices range from $749 to $999, for a complete bike with STI shifting.

Argon 18 will be starting their second quarter century with an impressive line up.