Very famous brand in Malaysia... our pro team used the A9X. Everytime when I watched UA-cam video and when they said you'll never get a very good carbon bike with carbon wheel and Di2 below USD5k... I always comments and recommend Polygon Helios A bike. Their A7X with 105 Di2 even more value for money.
according to their website, polygon uses a mixture of 2 carbon fibres with lower and higher tensile modulus to build their frames. what I found interesting is that they seem to use carbon fibres from a big player, the Japanese chemistry enterprise "Toray". I'd love to see a real check of the carbon fibres used. please vote this comment up so Cam and his colleagues might check the carbon frame more in detail. I'm really curious, because polygon doesn't state in particular, which fibres they mixed and at what ratio.
Been riding the A8X for almost a year. I love it. The only issue I also faced was the seatpost sliding down, but I'm 180 lbs. It took me a while to realize they included an extra collar made of steel to lock the seatpost for heavier riders. Problem solved.
About 10 years ago, Cell Bikes had carbon rim brake frames with Ultegra Di2 for 2 grand. Polygon looks pretty good value considering how crazy the market has gotten since then.
all that matters mainly is the group set and wheels resistance id say over 60-80% of the time, but these specialized and cervelo are all scam and over valued nonsense
My gravel bike was a Polygon Bend R5 for about 1 year (review on my channel too- recent video). For $1500 USD, you got GRX800 series 1x groupset, dropper post, carbon fork, thru-axle, 800 series brakes, etc) Can not beat that deal for a gravel bike. I’ve since moved a lot of the components to a 2023 Trek Checkpoint SL frame (much lighter carbon frame), but the bike served me well. Nothing but good times!
Still got my Cell Omeo 1.0 and it goes great for a $2000 bike. With Ultegra groupset and aero frame, bars, and even spokes, it's got more performance than my old outta shape arse currently needs! 😅
Polygon is No 1 Brand in Indonesia, like Giant in Taiwan, this bike recently used by Terengganu Polygon Cycling Team(TSG) is malaysian UCI continental cyling team, at least proud to see this bike on your channel cam, keep it up
A friend had this bike for 2 years now, cant say anything bad. From value to ride quality to comforty. I as an Indonesia is proud that Polygon actually made something that is amazing. Cant wait for the brutal review in your own words 👍👍👍
This bike released last year so your friend is clearly lying to you. I am not saying that it's not a good bike, I myself have a Polygon too and it's great for the money, I'm just calling out that there is no way your friend had the bike for 2 years.
My gravel bike was a Polygon Bend R5 for about 1 year (review on my channel too- recent video). For $1500 USD, you got GRX800 series 1x groupset, dropper post, carbon fork, thru-axle, 800 series brakes, etc) Can not beat that deal for a gravel bike. I’ve since moved a lot of the components to a 2023 Trek Checkpoint SL frame (much lighter carbon frame), but the bike served me well. Nothing but good times!
Hey Cam, you've nailed it in the head when I say I've done the exact same calculations with this bike. I have this bike here in Korea, and I've been absolutely loving it because of how well it shreds through the asphalt. A lil fun fact about the wheels, I've been looking around for a decent wheel to upgrade for the future, and I've searched up the specs for the Ultegra C50 wheelset and realized that the specs are almost up to par with of course, minor differences, which is an amazing value proposition. If anyone gets a chance to purchase this bike I highly recommend it.I'm pretty sure if I muster up the courage, I'll do a video of my own!! Great video as always Cam!!👌👌
@Mark Erickson Latonio they're great for the price! For a pair of wheels that come with a bike at this price, it's unbeatable, considering it's made in-house brand. They're not the lightest but it sure hell beats having shallow, alloy rims weighing as much as the 50mm carbon rims haha
Mountain Biker here - Polygon is very well known in the industry for their great value at entry-mid level. Ive really been scoping them out for an entry into road because my two hobbies, surfing and MTB are a struggle after it rains. They seem like they know their stuff and then for sure know how to penetrate a market. Id love to see you check out the Strattos from them, because it seems like an even more insane deal (albeit at bit less high end)
I have the Polygon Strattos SD8, endurance/climbing road bike with Ultegra set and I love it. It's not a well-known brand here in the US, so I bought it to be unique. It's not the bike it's the rider, not until you produce a PRO watt/kg output, then it could be the bike holding you back😂
They are very dominant in Malaysia due to UCI pro team sponsorship, but their road bike sale network is basically absent elsewhere outside Southeast Asia. You may found their MTB in US/Canada sport chain’s bike department…..Their racing grade road bike are as good as other major brands though. However I truly prefer less people knowing the brand to avoid price hike…and yes they are quality carbon frame made in China.
Bought a Helios A9X (full Dura-Ace) from Bikes OnLine 2 weeks ago. Nice bike and a bargain for $7,500 (with Dura-Ace crank power meters). Good points - * Latest 12sp wireless group-set, good brakes, UCI frameset, paintwork is excellent, fantastic price, fast delivery. Not so good - * Saddle is a bit heavy (cr-moly rails) * Seat post slippage!! Found an alloy collar in the box to fix this - but it must have been a Polygon after-thought as it wasn't mentioned in the assembly instructions video. * Wheels are a bit on the heavy side but seem quite good quality. * 28mm Schwalbe tyres (tubeless ready) were very heavy at 350gms each (I mainly race crits so slipped on some 23mm Contis and saved 200 grams from my rotating mass). * I don't like the 11-34 cassette ratios (prefer closer ratios - it needs a 16 tooth sprocket and get rid of the 34). * Convoluted saddle bracket setup. One of the threaded holes in the cylinder that slides across the top of the seat-tube wasn't properly threaded. I had to run a M5 thread tap through it to fix the problem. Not a big issue for me, but it would be for someone without mechanical skills. * Tried to update the DI2 through the E-Tube app - a nightmare! Installation failed, wouldn't reset and then I couldn't change gears at all! Shimano web-site was hopeless; but found goods 'hacks' on the internet to get around this (thank goodness for You-Tube!). Overall - * It's really is a nice bike and great value. * Warning...It comes in a box and you really do need at least an average level of bike mechanical skills to put it together and to set up the DI2 (or have a friendly mechanic who could do it for you). Keep in mind that Canyon bikes at this spec level also come in a box...and cost twice as much! * If you have a warranty issue - you can't just drop it back to the bike shop around the corner! If it's only a minor problem and you have the skills to fix it, that's fine. But anything major and you have to pack it up and post it back to the supplier (what a hassle!). This is probably the main reason the bike is so cheap. Fless
Hello, I am planning to buy this bike nextweek, as I look around the bike shops thinking of buying the emonda sl6 pro or the merida reacto 5000 exclusive, this bike caught my attention. The group set and the cockpit alone, this bike is way more better!
I keep seeing this on my Facebook feed. Probably because I keep opening it because it is such good value. The A9-X with Dura Ace 12 speed for $6,899 when on sale is ridiculous. Show me one other bike with Dura Ace and a $900 Vision Metron 5d bar for that price
You’ll love the bike, but not the wheels. My gravel bike was a Polygon Bend R5 for about 1 year (review on my channel too- recent video). For $1500 USD, you got GRX800 series 1x groupset, dropper post, carbon fork, thru-axle, 800 series brakes, etc) Can not beat that deal for a gravel bike. I’ve since moved a lot of the components to a 2023 Trek Checkpoint SL frame (much lighter carbon frame), but the bike served me well. Nothing but good times, after I changed the wheels, haha
value for money is the mantra! Polygon MTB bikes are well known, such as their DH bikes which won the Redbull Rampage, their enduro bikes at EWS, and their DJ bikes at world racing events. I think it will be interesting if in the future we can see Polygon roadbikes used by pro tour teams such as the Tour de France, Paris Roubaix etc.
During the covid era when bike components were in high demand, people in Indonesia would buy complete Polygon bikes just for the groupset because it’s cheaper than buying a groupset from scalpers. They would then assemble the groupset on a different bike frame (usually from more well known companies) and throw away or resell the Polygon frame.
That's the same kind of clamp I had on my Fuji Transonic and when I clamped the seatpost I had to push the seat forward and back pretty hard as I tightened the clamp and it worked out. I'm sure you guys did that too but I thought I'd mention it for people who might not have that experience. Looking forward to the review.
Tested this bike a month ago. it's fantastic, overall feel that, it's ready to race bike. stiffness, responsive Great. also not bad in comfortable. extremely Value for money. If you are looking for a fast and good response bike and in a very reasonable price that you can afford. this is the one. Or you can go to other Super Brand bike. almost double , triple price higher and its almost the same riding response then...............
the wheelset probably from Novatec(based on the hub used). From my quick research, it's similar with the R5 Series, and yes: $1000 dollar wheelset(if the Entity WR5 is a rebranded version of Novatec R5)
I want to love those Vision bars. They were what came on my Bianchi. Mine came as 42 cm / 110 mm, though, and after a year and a half I want. to switch them for a 40 cm / 100 mm set, but that's a lot of spare change to drop to get your hands an inch closer together and a centimeter closer. If I do buy a new set, I'm putting the larger set on my gravel bike because that's too much money to let go to waste. Hope you got the size Neil recommended the first time on your bike.
Ah, I know the pain. Similar issue with all bikes in my size coming with 172.5mm cranks. That is a major consideration for off the shelf bikes, they don't necessarily come with the right bars, cranks, and saddle. Although saddle is normally an easy fix. Yes, I did speak with Neill and he's happy with my decision on this one. Cheers,
Very nice! Good to see some videos about value for money. Speaking of, where is the damn Falath EVO? 😆 What's taking them so long? I have a 52 on order too.
Cheers mate, and it arrived mid last week so currently at the bike shop. Unfortunately my local shop is under the pump so it could be another week or so before I have it! Stay tuned.
If anybody says Canyon offers great value for money, they’ve probably not heard of Polygon. Polygon was my first bike. Now I’m on the latest Orbea Orca. Love them both in different ways. No, I am never selling off the Polygon Helios
My gravel bike was a Polygon Bend R5 for about 1 year (review on my channel too- recent video). For $1500 USD, you got GRX800 series 1x groupset, dropper post, carbon fork, thru-axle, 800 series brakes, etc) Can not beat that deal for a gravel bike. I’ve since moved a lot of the components to a 2023 Trek Checkpoint SL frame (much lighter carbon frame), but the bike served me well. Nothing but good times!
I have a Polygon Strattos S8, that bike has held up great. I really like it, the price was amazing. I bought mine as a used press bike, it looked brand new.
Really looking forward to the review. I have a polygon MTB and love the value on offer but there is not much out there regarding reviews (especially long term).
FInally, some recognition for Polygon Helios series. Next try Strattos lineup. It definitely can compete global high-end brand in this "bike price crisis" years ....😘🤩
The Vision One Metron Carbon Cockpit are Sensational. Have them my SL7 S-WORKS. Probably would have preferred the latest from Specialized /Roval Carbon Cockpit as they are much lighter ...... 255 grams to 380 grams . My ride away weight , includes pedals , bottle cages & computer mount . ...... is 6.755 kilos . Picked up my bars 4 $ 950 aud including the required spacer .
I got the polygon strattos (pre helium) . Carbon frame/ fork, 105 gears for $1700, 2/3 years ago. Wheels were a bit shit but they were shallow alloy(snapped spokes easily). Change the wheels and used it as a pretty good and cheap crit bike. Would recommend
I own a polygon Strattos S8D full Ultegra group set No regret to love it riding experience is good! Seriously I don't know why that's ppl don't like a polygon.
Great video Cam. I’m looking for a bike in this range. How would you compare this bike to a Merida Reacto 8000 or 9000? A 8000 comes in at $6200 from 99 bikes and is backed by a large brand/local bike shop support. Better wheels and same groupset. Doesn’t come with one piece cockpit (arguably an advantage?) The 9000 comes with the exact same cockpit as the polygon.
Sounds a lot like the taiwan-based company KHS. I normally ride at BMC team machine, I switched to a KHS flite team this year what a freaking amazing value. They also own the manufacturing process and their own molds. And it is done in house. Got a full monocoque high-modulus frame, full Shimano Dura-Ace all the way around. FSA sl-k carbon cockpit, and vision metron 55 Wheels offer just about 5,000 us. 👀
Polygon has been there for years, most people in the sportive entry level segment go for this brand, looks like polygon is moving the high end market to complete with the likes of winspace etc.
My gravel bike was a Polygon Bend R5 for about 1 year (review on my channel too- recent video). For $1500 USD, you got GRX800 series 1x groupset, dropper post, carbon fork, thru-axle, 800 series brakes, etc) Can not beat that deal for a gravel bike. I’ve since moved a lot of the components to a 2023 Trek Checkpoint SL frame (much lighter carbon frame), but the bike served me well. Nothing but good times!
Hi, Love you contents. I have been watching your contents since 2021 and I can see that the majority of the bike you review is an aero bike. If you could do some review on some all rounder bikes like the scultura, TCR, emonda etc (for the climbers) we would be much appreciated 😊 Thanks.
How about the Canyon Aeroad retailing for 5949 australian dollars? Full Ultegra, DT Swiss wheels, etc. Anyway; I recon this way of doing math will leave quite a lot of "free" frames. Its not the same building a bike from scratch and buying a ready built one as the factories have a total different buy price on the parts.
Would love to see if they could send you the Polygon Strattos, their “all road” bike. Seems like their Émonda-ish bike, but is commonly on sale for sub 2k for carbon frame and 105 components.
its pretty popular here for mid-low range bike under USD2k.. for USD5k we usually prefer more established brand.. yeah we are not really love our own brand.
I’m hoping to finally get a 2023 Giant Propel (Ultegra Di2) in the next month or so but this has got me thinking… Any thoughts on how the Helios A8X or A9X might compare with the propel?
given how crazy groupset prices have gotten in australia, i've been serioulsy looking at just buying a new bike instead of upgrading my old one with some new components.
Back in my day an Ultegra groupset cost I think $1,200 or maybe $1,500 and you could buy a cheap Ultegra bike for $2,000 or a really NICE one for $3,000. And that wasn't even very long ago
@@RetiredAdventurers Out of the box, the only complaint I have was the wheelset, which was poorly made, I guess you have to save cost somewhere. Other than that it is quite an excellent all rounder bike, comparing it to my Willier GTR, I honestly can't tell which is better, but look wise, it does look sportier than the willier. As for weight, after some upgrades, I managed to lower it to just under 7.7kg, with bottle cage & pedals. Which imo is quite good for a fully hydraulic disc bike. So I really can't agree with people arguing that disc brake bikes are heavy.
@@RetiredAdventurers Sure, the most obvious is the wheelset, I upgraded it to Elite Drive 50mm, the handle bar to blackinc, crankset to Durace on the drive side, 105 power meter on the left, seatpost to a cheap elita one carbon, prologo saddle dura ace FD, XT 160 & 140 rotors and Durace pedals.. I think that's about it.
I’m very curious to hear your opinions. I have an older Helios which has proven to be very solid, plus I have a couple of Polygon mountain bikes. I’ve always considered them good value for the money.
I look forward to this review. The only downer for me is the 420mm bars - too narrow for me. It would be a shame to have to spend another grand getting wider bars.
@@deejtan sickness, a wife that went away for 10 days and now it’s raining all week. They all cause unexpected delays. The frame is great but the wheels are terrible so phase two is testing with better wheels. I’m entering that phase two now. Mid August is the new date
@CamNicholls Good to know that the review is in process. I figured that the wheels were no good from the get-go. This weather has been no good at all. I just recovered from the flu myself. Hope you get better soon, and I am really looking forward to your review of this bike. Maybe more stock will be available then. Cheers.
@@CamNicholls That’s true, the 9000 series is the one which has the similar style bars, the only thing I can really hold against the polygon is the 5 year warranty vs lifetime from Merida for the carbon frame and wheels
Hi Cam, thanks for the in depth video with a mechanics opinion on the components. In your opinion, are there any better entry bikes for the money than Reid Falco Elite 105? Main use; get out and exercise
I tried this bike along with a dare and a gusto, I prefer the latter 2 but the gusto I believe doesn't come in a di setup but it is however quite alot cheaper
there is lower class road bike from polygon called Strattos. In the early 2020 (before pandemic and bike hype), there is strattos S8 with carbon frame + ultegra for just 25 million IDR, or just AUD 2500.
You made me check as I spend 7400aud and get a bike lighter than that but with pedals on it (sub 8kg including pedals, yes I do weigh the bikes without too)
@@Simsalabim114 I wondered as googled for SRAM that the 1170 last longer than 1190 chain, I never read the stuff or look at reviews I just buy items as I want to
@@Simsalabim114 what I meant by that is look at reviews before buy products I want or movies going to see, sometimes I look at them after I been or got
@@mlee6050 not sure about what you mean but let’s move on, Based on google: Both the Ultegra and 105 chains undergo a Sil-Tec low friction plating process that’s designed to make them run smoother and require less maintenance, as well as increasing the durability. The only difference between them is that the 105 chain has this treatment on the roller link plates (the inner ones) only while the Ultegra chain (above) has it on the pin link plates (the outer ones) too. Price margin only less than AUD $10, go for ultegra
It's used by Terengganu Polygon Cycling Team, UCI Continental cycling team who just won Tour de Taiwan 2023 and many more races
Proud of this south east Asian brand. Let's give the Chinese a run for their money aye! 9:53
Very famous brand in Malaysia... our pro team used the A9X.
Everytime when I watched UA-cam video and when they said you'll never get a very good carbon bike with carbon wheel and Di2 below USD5k... I always comments and recommend Polygon Helios A bike.
Their A7X with 105 Di2 even more value for money.
same in Indonesia, our staple childhood bike brand :D
according to their website, polygon uses a mixture of 2 carbon fibres with lower and higher tensile modulus to build their frames.
what I found interesting is that they seem to use carbon fibres from a big player, the Japanese chemistry enterprise "Toray".
I'd love to see a real check of the carbon fibres used.
please vote this comment up so Cam and his colleagues might check the carbon frame more in detail.
I'm really curious, because polygon doesn't state in particular, which fibres they mixed and at what ratio.
Been riding the A8X for almost a year. I love it. The only issue I also faced was the seatpost sliding down, but I'm 180 lbs. It took me a while to realize they included an extra collar made of steel to lock the seatpost for heavier riders. Problem solved.
Are you just posting this on every Helios video?!
About 10 years ago, Cell Bikes had carbon rim brake frames with Ultegra Di2 for 2 grand.
Polygon looks pretty good value considering how crazy the market has gotten since then.
I remember Cell bikes! Terrible name and logo really. But the value was there.
all that matters mainly is the group set and wheels resistance id say over 60-80% of the time, but these specialized and cervelo are all scam and over valued nonsense
My gravel bike was a Polygon Bend R5 for about 1 year (review on my channel too- recent video). For $1500 USD, you got GRX800 series 1x groupset, dropper post, carbon fork, thru-axle, 800 series brakes, etc) Can not beat that deal for a gravel bike. I’ve since moved a lot of the components to a 2023 Trek Checkpoint SL frame (much lighter carbon frame), but the bike served me well. Nothing but good times!
Still got my Cell Omeo 1.0 and it goes great for a $2000 bike. With Ultegra groupset and aero frame, bars, and even spokes, it's got more performance than my old outta shape arse currently needs! 😅
Cell Bikes is now Bikes Online but yeah prices are just insane!
Polygon is No 1 Brand in Indonesia, like Giant in Taiwan, this bike recently used by Terengganu Polygon Cycling Team(TSG) is malaysian UCI continental cyling team, at least proud to see this bike on your channel cam, keep it up
A friend had this bike for 2 years now, cant say anything bad.
From value to ride quality to comforty.
I as an Indonesia is proud that Polygon actually made something that is amazing.
Cant wait for the brutal review in your own words 👍👍👍
Polygon is a staple bike brand for Indonesian kids, used to ride Polygon when I was a kid in the 90s :)
overproud lu
This bike released last year so your friend is clearly lying to you. I am not saying that it's not a good bike, I myself have a Polygon too and it's great for the money, I'm just calling out that there is no way your friend had the bike for 2 years.
@@sweetalert480berisik Malaydesh
My gravel bike was a Polygon Bend R5 for about 1 year (review on my channel too- recent video). For $1500 USD, you got GRX800 series 1x groupset, dropper post, carbon fork, thru-axle, 800 series brakes, etc) Can not beat that deal for a gravel bike. I’ve since moved a lot of the components to a 2023 Trek Checkpoint SL frame (much lighter carbon frame), but the bike served me well. Nothing but good times!
NO WAY! I've been waiting for someone to review this and do a test with it before buying this
Mate I can’t wait for this review. With prices going crazy and wages going backwards, Polygon are looking better and better
Hey Cam, you've nailed it in the head when I say I've done the exact same calculations with this bike. I have this bike here in Korea, and I've been absolutely loving it because of how well it shreds through the asphalt. A lil fun fact about the wheels, I've been looking around for a decent wheel to upgrade for the future, and I've searched up the specs for the Ultegra C50 wheelset and realized that the specs are almost up to par with of course, minor differences, which is an amazing value proposition. If anyone gets a chance to purchase this bike I highly recommend it.I'm pretty sure if I muster up the courage, I'll do a video of my own!! Great video as always Cam!!👌👌
Hi, Im planning to get the A8X soon, just wondering if the entity wheelset is good. I dont plan it upgrading in any soon If I ever get the bike. Thank
@Mark Erickson Latonio they're great for the price! For a pair of wheels that come with a bike at this price, it's unbeatable, considering it's made in-house brand. They're not the lightest but it sure hell beats having shallow, alloy rims weighing as much as the 50mm carbon rims haha
Mountain Biker here - Polygon is very well known in the industry for their great value at entry-mid level. Ive really been scoping them out for an entry into road because my two hobbies, surfing and MTB are a struggle after it rains. They seem like they know their stuff and then for sure know how to penetrate a market. Id love to see you check out the Strattos from them, because it seems like an even more insane deal (albeit at bit less high end)
I have the Polygon Strattos SD8, endurance/climbing road bike with Ultegra set and I love it. It's not a well-known brand here in the US, so I bought it to be unique. It's not the bike it's the rider, not until you produce a PRO watt/kg output, then it could be the bike holding you back😂
They are very dominant in Malaysia due to UCI pro team sponsorship, but their road bike sale network is basically absent elsewhere outside Southeast Asia. You may found their MTB in US/Canada sport chain’s bike department…..Their racing grade road bike are as good as other major brands though. However I truly prefer less people knowing the brand to avoid price hike…and yes they are quality carbon frame made in China.
From what I know, those entity wheelset are rebranded/redecaled novatec R5 carbon wheels. So those are quite reliable and robust.
Bought a Helios A9X (full Dura-Ace) from Bikes OnLine 2 weeks ago. Nice bike and a bargain for $7,500 (with Dura-Ace crank power meters).
Good points -
* Latest 12sp wireless group-set, good brakes, UCI frameset, paintwork is excellent, fantastic price, fast delivery.
Not so good -
* Saddle is a bit heavy (cr-moly rails)
* Seat post slippage!! Found an alloy collar in the box to fix this - but it must have been a Polygon after-thought as it wasn't mentioned in the assembly instructions video.
* Wheels are a bit on the heavy side but seem quite good quality.
* 28mm Schwalbe tyres (tubeless ready) were very heavy at 350gms each (I mainly race crits so slipped on some 23mm Contis and saved 200 grams from my rotating mass).
* I don't like the 11-34 cassette ratios (prefer closer ratios - it needs a 16 tooth sprocket and get rid of the 34).
* Convoluted saddle bracket setup. One of the threaded holes in the cylinder that slides across the top of the seat-tube wasn't properly threaded. I had to run a M5 thread tap through it to fix the problem. Not a big issue for me, but it would be for someone without mechanical skills.
* Tried to update the DI2 through the E-Tube app - a nightmare! Installation failed, wouldn't reset and then I couldn't change gears at all! Shimano web-site was hopeless; but found goods 'hacks' on the internet to get around this (thank goodness for You-Tube!).
Overall -
* It's really is a nice bike and great value.
* Warning...It comes in a box and you really do need at least an average level of bike mechanical skills to put it together and to set up the DI2 (or have a friendly mechanic who could do it for you). Keep in mind that Canyon bikes at this spec level also come in a box...and cost twice as much!
* If you have a warranty issue - you can't just drop it back to the bike shop around the corner! If it's only a minor problem and you have the skills to fix it, that's fine. But anything major and you have to pack it up and post it back to the supplier (what a hassle!). This is probably the main reason the bike is so cheap.
Fless
One of the flagship brand from Indonesia. You'll see many MTB & road bike flying Polygon'a flag.
Hello, I am planning to buy this bike nextweek, as I look around the bike shops thinking of buying the emonda sl6 pro or the merida reacto 5000 exclusive, this bike caught my attention. The group set and the cockpit alone, this bike is way more better!
I keep seeing this on my Facebook feed. Probably because I keep opening it because it is such good value. The A9-X with Dura Ace 12 speed for $6,899 when on sale is ridiculous. Show me one other bike with Dura Ace and a $900 Vision Metron 5d bar for that price
Can’t wait for the review, I’m planning on buying a strattos 8 , but wanted to see more reviews on it
You’ll love the bike, but not the wheels. My gravel bike was a Polygon Bend R5 for about 1 year (review on my channel too- recent video). For $1500 USD, you got GRX800 series 1x groupset, dropper post, carbon fork, thru-axle, 800 series brakes, etc) Can not beat that deal for a gravel bike. I’ve since moved a lot of the components to a 2023 Trek Checkpoint SL frame (much lighter carbon frame), but the bike served me well. Nothing but good times, after I changed the wheels, haha
Thanks Cam and team looks great value for money at last.
Met someone today who was taking about this bike. Sending them your way.
value for money is the mantra! Polygon MTB bikes are well known, such as their DH bikes which won the Redbull Rampage, their enduro bikes at EWS, and their DJ bikes at world racing events. I think it will be interesting if in the future we can see Polygon roadbikes used by pro tour teams such as the Tour de France, Paris Roubaix etc.
as an Indonesian I'm really looking forward to your honest and brutal review of this bike.
overproud lu
@@sweetalert480 yok baku hantam yok
Kampungan
During the covid era when bike components were in high demand, people in Indonesia would buy complete Polygon bikes just for the groupset because it’s cheaper than buying a groupset from scalpers. They would then assemble the groupset on a different bike frame (usually from more well known companies) and throw away or resell the Polygon frame.
That's the same kind of clamp I had on my Fuji Transonic and when I clamped the seatpost I had to push the seat forward and back pretty hard as I tightened the clamp and it worked out. I'm sure you guys did that too but I thought I'd mention it for people who might not have that experience. Looking forward to the review.
Interesting to hear that Robert, appreciate you sharing on the thread and for me! Cam
thanks for continuing to open our eyes to more global brands - not a brand i've seen in the UK before...maybe in future
Tested this bike a month ago. it's fantastic, overall feel that, it's ready to race bike. stiffness, responsive Great. also not bad in comfortable. extremely Value for money. If you are looking for a fast and good response bike and in a very reasonable price that you can afford. this is the one. Or you can go to other Super Brand bike. almost double , triple price higher and its almost the same riding response then...............
the wheelset probably from Novatec(based on the hub used). From my quick research, it's similar with the R5 Series, and yes: $1000 dollar wheelset(if the Entity WR5 is a rebranded version of Novatec R5)
Love your vids Cam - LIKED
The fame set has had a massive facelift from the 2018 frame set. heard nothing but good things about Polygon.
I want to love those Vision bars. They were what came on my Bianchi. Mine came as 42 cm / 110 mm, though, and after a year and a half I want. to switch them for a 40 cm / 100 mm set, but that's a lot of spare change to drop to get your hands an inch closer together and a centimeter closer. If I do buy a new set, I'm putting the larger set on my gravel bike because that's too much money to let go to waste. Hope you got the size Neil recommended the first time on your bike.
Ah, I know the pain. Similar issue with all bikes in my size coming with 172.5mm cranks. That is a major consideration for off the shelf bikes, they don't necessarily come with the right bars, cranks, and saddle. Although saddle is normally an easy fix. Yes, I did speak with Neill and he's happy with my decision on this one. Cheers,
Very nice! Good to see some videos about value for money. Speaking of, where is the damn Falath EVO? 😆 What's taking them so long? I have a 52 on order too.
Cheers mate, and it arrived mid last week so currently at the bike shop. Unfortunately my local shop is under the pump so it could be another week or so before I have it! Stay tuned.
@@CamNicholls FUCK YEAH!!! 👍👍 Can't wait!
Excited for this too. I got a 56 on order.
If anybody says Canyon offers great value for money, they’ve probably not heard of Polygon.
Polygon was my first bike. Now I’m on the latest Orbea Orca. Love them both in different ways. No, I am never selling off the Polygon Helios
My gravel bike was a Polygon Bend R5 for about 1 year (review on my channel too- recent video). For $1500 USD, you got GRX800 series 1x groupset, dropper post, carbon fork, thru-axle, 800 series brakes, etc) Can not beat that deal for a gravel bike. I’ve since moved a lot of the components to a 2023 Trek Checkpoint SL frame (much lighter carbon frame), but the bike served me well. Nothing but good times!
@@BIIIKES cute. I rode my Helios for more than half a decade 😆 and I still have it. No plans on selling it ever.
If you sell it, you’ll get only 100-150aud anyway. So no point of selling them
I have a Polygon Strattos S8, that bike has held up great. I really like it, the price was amazing. I bought mine as a used press bike, it looked brand new.
Really looking forward to the review. I have a polygon MTB and love the value on offer but there is not much out there regarding reviews (especially long term).
FInally, some recognition for Polygon Helios series.
Next try Strattos lineup. It definitely can compete global high-end brand in this "bike price crisis" years ....😘🤩
Think I might get one of these. Looking forward to seeing the full review
The Vision One Metron Carbon Cockpit are Sensational. Have them my SL7 S-WORKS. Probably would have preferred the latest from Specialized /Roval Carbon Cockpit as they are much lighter ...... 255 grams to 380 grams . My ride away weight , includes pedals , bottle cages & computer mount . ...... is 6.755 kilos . Picked up my bars 4 $ 950 aud including the required spacer .
I got the polygon strattos (pre helium) . Carbon frame/ fork, 105 gears for $1700, 2/3 years ago.
Wheels were a bit shit but they were shallow alloy(snapped spokes easily).
Change the wheels and used it as a pretty good and cheap crit bike.
Would recommend
In Indonesia, Polygon is the Toyota of bikes, they're everywhere, so the spare parts are abundant and the mechanics are so familiar with the bikes
For mtb yes, it’s like toyota here, but for road bikes? No 😂
The guys behind Polygon have plenty of experience, and come from other pretty big brands in cycling. Not surprised the frame is a made well
My kids have one of these each and the bikes work great for them.
Really keen for the full review... Soon?
Another great video!!! I was wondering what grease did you use so I can buy some to have around?
Looking forward to seeing the test review of the AX8
I own a polygon Strattos S8D full Ultegra group set No regret to love it riding experience is good! Seriously I don't know why that's ppl don't like a polygon.
Great video Cam. I’m looking for a bike in this range. How would you compare this bike to a Merida Reacto 8000 or 9000?
A 8000 comes in at $6200 from 99 bikes and is backed by a large brand/local bike shop support. Better wheels and same groupset. Doesn’t come with one piece cockpit (arguably an advantage?) The 9000 comes with the exact same cockpit as the polygon.
If you can get A Merida for $6,200 it's hard to go past. You can change the bars down the track
I just ordered a Helios A7 and fair enough I think i made a pretty good choice after seeing this video
I've had the previous model for 10+ years and it's been awesome. Just wish it fitbwider tyres.
Best value for money bike... I love Polygon Helios A9X with Dura Ace wheelset...
for 8jt idr right now(500 USD) you can get a full carbon, shimano 105 groupset, with hydraulic disc brakes. Pacific Magnus 5.0
Sounds a lot like the taiwan-based company KHS. I normally ride at BMC team machine, I switched to a KHS flite team this year what a freaking amazing value. They also own the manufacturing process and their own molds. And it is done in house. Got a full monocoque high-modulus frame, full Shimano Dura-Ace all the way around. FSA sl-k carbon cockpit, and vision metron 55 Wheels offer just about 5,000 us. 👀
I bought the Strattos on line with Ultegra. $3000. Waiting for some top end wheels and tyres to arrive to make it a very impressive unit.
I have a 2011 Tarmac SL3 (S-Works) that I absolutely love and ride weekly but I'm due for an upgrade. How much better is this bike compared to my SL3?
So wish you could get your hand on Gusto Ranger Evo for review. I didn't see any review in YT.
Polygon has been there for years, most people in the sportive entry level segment go for this brand, looks like polygon is moving the high end market to complete with the likes of winspace etc.
My gravel bike was a Polygon Bend R5 for about 1 year (review on my channel too- recent video). For $1500 USD, you got GRX800 series 1x groupset, dropper post, carbon fork, thru-axle, 800 series brakes, etc) Can not beat that deal for a gravel bike. I’ve since moved a lot of the components to a 2023 Trek Checkpoint SL frame (much lighter carbon frame), but the bike served me well. Nothing but good times!
Hi,
Love you contents. I have been watching your contents since 2021 and I can see that the majority of the bike you review is an aero bike. If you could do some review on some all rounder bikes like the scultura, TCR, emonda etc (for the climbers) we would be much appreciated 😊
Thanks.
Im a tall bugger, so they would need at least an xxl in the line up for my size. I hope the ride will be enjoyable for you👍
How about the Canyon Aeroad retailing for 5949 australian dollars? Full Ultegra, DT Swiss wheels, etc. Anyway; I recon this way of doing math will leave quite a lot of "free" frames. Its not the same building a bike from scratch and buying a ready built one as the factories have a total different buy price on the parts.
The frame reminds me of the Yoeleo R12
Hi Cam, i have the same problem with the seat post, i ask polygon and they say take it out and clean it with a soap, and it works...
Here he is!
I bought the Helios A7X 2023 a few weeks backs. I’ll second you since it’s the only bike that comes with a 105 Di2 and carbon rims for AU$4500
Cricket bat tape for slipping carbon seatposts is better than any assembly paste.
Cricket bat tape! Never heard of that. Thanks for the tip
Super value!
Crazy to think I got my Specialized Roubaix full carbon with Sram Force brand new from the bike shop for $2,900 in 2013.
Their 105 mechanical was under 4k from memory. That's a lot of bike for 6k and would be hard to build it yourself for that.
Would love to see if they could send you the Polygon Strattos, their “all road” bike. Seems like their Émonda-ish bike, but is commonly on sale for sub 2k for carbon frame and 105 components.
its pretty popular here for mid-low range bike under USD2k.. for USD5k we usually prefer more established brand.. yeah we are not really love our own brand.
True 😂
extremely curious about the review!
I’m hoping to finally get a 2023 Giant Propel (Ultegra Di2) in the next month or so but this has got me thinking…
Any thoughts on how the Helios A8X or A9X might compare with the propel?
would you say this is better than the merida reacto 5000 bahrain edition ?
I thought the integrated stem/bars only came on the a9x .
Has that situation changed??
How "aero" would this be versus other frames out there? Looks a bit better than my TCR...
given how crazy groupset prices have gotten in australia, i've been serioulsy looking at just buying a new bike instead of upgrading my old one with some new components.
Back in my day an Ultegra groupset cost I think $1,200 or maybe $1,500 and you could buy a cheap Ultegra bike for $2,000 or a really NICE one for $3,000. And that wasn't even very long ago
Polygon for the world 😍
This would be an amazing racing bike for the ordinary folks (as the saying goes don't race what you can't afford to crash)
Used to own the older model of Helios, sold it bought a Willier, sold that and bought a Polygon Strattos S8D, please do a review on a strattos
How do you like the strattos? I’m planning on buying one
@@RetiredAdventurers Out of the box, the only complaint I have was the wheelset, which was poorly made, I guess you have to save cost somewhere. Other than that it is quite an excellent all rounder bike, comparing it to my Willier GTR, I honestly can't tell which is better, but look wise, it does look sportier than the willier.
As for weight, after some upgrades, I managed to lower it to just under 7.7kg, with bottle cage & pedals. Which imo is quite good for a fully hydraulic disc bike. So I really can't agree with people arguing that disc brake bikes are heavy.
@@xaein9515 if you don’t mind, what kind of upgrades did you do?
@@RetiredAdventurers Sure, the most obvious is the wheelset, I upgraded it to Elite Drive 50mm, the handle bar to blackinc, crankset to Durace on the drive side, 105 power meter on the left, seatpost to a cheap elita one carbon, prologo saddle dura ace FD, XT 160 & 140 rotors and Durace pedals.. I think that's about it.
@@xaein9515 thanks for the information
I’m very curious to hear your opinions. I have an older Helios which has proven to be very solid, plus I have a couple of Polygon mountain bikes. I’ve always considered them good value for the money.
I look forward to this review. The only downer for me is the 420mm bars - too narrow for me. It would be a shame to have to spend another grand getting wider bars.
Patiently waiting on review
I did say mid year! Late June I reckon. Maybe early July.
It's mid July now 😅
Still waiting 😂
@@deejtan sickness, a wife that went away for 10 days and now it’s raining all week. They all cause unexpected delays. The frame is great but the wheels are terrible so phase two is testing with better wheels. I’m entering that phase two now. Mid August is the new date
@CamNicholls Good to know that the review is in process. I figured that the wheels were no good from the get-go.
This weather has been no good at all. I just recovered from the flu myself. Hope you get better soon, and I am really looking forward to your review of this bike. Maybe more stock will be available then. Cheers.
thinking of getting this
Thoughts on the Merida's in the similar price bracket, such as the 8000 or 7000 series?
Very good and probably a better comparison to the Giant, although you can't buy in North America. The bars are probably the big difference
@@CamNicholls That’s true, the 9000 series is the one which has the similar style bars, the only thing I can really hold against the polygon is the 5 year warranty vs lifetime from Merida for the carbon frame and wheels
How the giant propel frame vs polygon which is better made?
Carbon fibre analysis!!
Pls.
hyped for the review, strongly considering the new A8
Hi Cam, thanks for the in depth video with a mechanics opinion on the components. In your opinion, are there any better entry bikes for the money than Reid Falco Elite 105? Main use; get out and exercise
Hard for me to say mate, I have never ridden them. Sorry
@@CamNicholls All good mate, appreciate you taking the time out of your day and being honest
@camnicholls WHERE IS THE REVIEW?! THANKS,
LOVE,
ME
I tried this bike along with a dare and a gusto, I prefer the latter 2 but the gusto I believe doesn't come in a di setup but it is however quite alot cheaper
there is lower class road bike from polygon called Strattos. In the early 2020 (before pandemic and bike hype), there is strattos S8 with carbon frame + ultegra for just 25 million IDR, or just AUD 2500.
My friend bought his s8d for idr 34mil (AUD 3,400) from rodalink. Are you drunk? 😅
Oh sorry I skipped the “early 2020” where the parts were much cheaper before pandemic 😅
And I realize it was S8 not s8D. My bad 😅
Curious to know how it rides and compares to other bikes. Solid components and price, even in USD.
You made me check as I spend 7400aud and get a bike lighter than that but with pedals on it (sub 8kg including pedals, yes I do weigh the bikes without too)
Unsure if was on about my planet x RTD90 then or my trek Emonda ALR that only have frameset so far
Hey! That's how I wrap my handlebars 😂
Just wanted your view is ultegra chain Vs 105 chain what is better? I often think lower should last more miles
I think you read too much brochure dude
@@Simsalabim114 I wondered as googled for SRAM that the 1170 last longer than 1190 chain, I never read the stuff or look at reviews I just buy items as I want to
You said you never read stuff and review but ask in a review channel lol. You okay? 😂
It’s a few bucks diff don’t be so cheap 🤣
@@Simsalabim114 what I meant by that is look at reviews before buy products I want or movies going to see, sometimes I look at them after I been or got
@@mlee6050 not sure about what you mean but let’s move on,
Based on google:
Both the Ultegra and 105 chains undergo a Sil-Tec low friction plating process that’s designed to make them run smoother and require less maintenance, as well as increasing the durability.
The only difference between them is that the 105 chain has this treatment on the roller link plates (the inner ones) only while the Ultegra chain (above) has it on the pin link plates (the outer ones) too.
Price margin only less than AUD $10, go for ultegra
Cam please test this in a head to head with the merida reacto
Love to know how it stacks up against the ELVES Falath EVO? Seems to be a close comparison
Haven’t found out yet. To come
@@CamNicholls Will keep an eye out!
Thanks
I remember Cervelo in 2008 that was the same money.
Can you make a similar video for gravelbikes?