Triban Disc 105 RC 520 Review

The Triban Disc 105 RC 520 by Decathlon, the French sporting goods retailer, is an unbelievable entry-level option for those with a $1000 budget. The specs make the price seem a bargain.

Decathlon themselves describe the bike a being designed for cycling “further and more often with the most comfortable road bike we’ve ever designed. Discover its hydro-mechanical disc brakes, specially-designed geometry, and the Shimano 105 groupset.”

It’s true that this bike is powered by the ultra-reliable and excellent performance of the Shimano 105 groupset, and built for comfort.

Additionally, it’s suitable for a wide range of cycling – lengthy commutes, group rides, gravel terrain and more.

It’s got an impressive level of specifications, particularly given the price, with a strong and sturdy frame. The frame is aluminium with carbon forks, which help to soak up the bumps on the road. Being aluminium, it’s on the heavy side but surprisingly it still performs well on hills.

Additionally, the Triban Disc 105 RC 520 comes with slightly wider road tires (28mm compared to the standard 23mm), which help with cycling on different terrain and ensuring a smooth ride.

The rolling speed it pretty good as well. The Triban can actually cater for tires up to 36mm if you prefer, particularly if you want to cycle more off-road or need more stability.

The frame and fork have external cable routing, which is no surprise at the price point. While it makes at-home servicing easier, it’s not quite as sleek as the internal cabling associated with pricier options. It’s simple, but it works.

Given the wider tires and the comfortable, upright position, it’s not a surprise that it’s an easy ride. That makes it more suited for casual or endurance riders, rather than speed-demons. The easygoing manner of cycling the bike is quite a different feeling for those used to more aggressive riding positions, particularly on longer rides.

However, the drop-style handlebars do pull you slightly forward and you can get enough speed from the 11-speed Shimano 105 drivetrain. The 11-speed drivetrain has an 11-32t cassette, making it reasonable for most needs.

It’s understandably heavier than a full carbon road bike but the 11-speed provides a decent range of gears to get up climbs. The Triban does cut back in a few areas, such as the saddle and the stem, but generally speaking, they are small sacrifices at that price point.

Moving on to the disc brakes, the Triban is equipped with TRP HY/RD cable-actuated hydraulics, which isn’t as sharp as fully hydraulic disc brakes but far superior to traditional brakes.

The bike has the option for tubeless wheels and has mounts on the frame to install a carrier and mudguard. Lastly, it comes with foam handlebar tape, which is pretty comfortable on the hands.

If you are looking for an affordable, comfortable and versatile road bike, the Triban Disc 105 RC 520 ticks pretty much all the boxes.

It’s an aluminium bike made for longer rides, with wider tires suitable for hitting different terrain. Powered by the quality 11-speed Shimano 105 drivetrain, it shifts smoothly and easily.

Key features include:

Color: Navy Blue
Frame: Triban Evo frame in 6061 T6 aluminium
Forks: Triban Evo fork with carbon blades
Groupset: Shimano 105 R7000 11-Speed
Brakes: TRP HY/RD cable-actuated hydraulic disc
Cassette: Shimano 11-speed, 11-32
Crankset: Shimano RS 510 50/34
Front and rear derailleur: Shimano 105 R7000
Wheelset: Triban Aluminum tubeless-ready
Tires: 700 x 28c with flat protection (compatible with tires up to 36mm)
Seatpost: Triban aluminium
Weight: 23.8 pounds

It’s packed full of value, with plenty of reliability and flexibility – from being used as an entry-level road bike to an endurance workhorse. It’s got specs normally found on bikes double its price.

Chris Smith

Founder of Vivi Nation, the cycling, running and active living brand. Chris is a sports enthusiast, occasional triathlete and experienced cyclist, having led multiple cycle tours across Europe.