A bike review through a smash session feels more genuine and credible compared to other reviews which talks about it while sitting down behind the camera :)
I first saw a Helios bike on a Malaysian cyclist's channel (Melvin Tan) late last year and had no idea what the bike was. It looked great, but had no idea what it was. This is awesome that you've done a review on it!!! Props!!!
Back to the past, Polygon has its own road bike team. Called Polygon Sweet Nice. This team is strengthened by several big names, such as Sergey Kuzmin (Kazakhstan), Oscar Pujol Munoz (Spain), also Edgar Nieto (Spain). And talk about the Polygon brand, i used to be a junior cyclist of course my first bike is Polygon. Right here, in Indonesia this is the famous brand for Amateur. Hope you enjoy that bike, also Good Luck for All your Race in the Future. Greetings from Indonesia
It's truly encouraging to witness Malaysia's leading UCI Continental teams, TSG and Polygon, gaining recognition on the global stage beyond Asia. Their success highlights the growing prominence of Malaysian cycling talent and underscores the importance of international acknowledgment for their achievements.🙌🏼🙌🏼😚
i grew up riding Polygon back home in Indonesia like some 25 years ago.. Great to see small players emerging, giving a competitive pricing to consumers
Omg i remember being a 15 year old racer. We had no coaching on anything. Today the competition is Wayyy higher but the resources to perform at a high level are also. Best wishes, and never quit a race unless it is essential
I got the same bike in December 2023 with the default Entity wheel set. Needed to swap saddle, handlebar to narrower and wheel set to Dura Ace C50 and it's sweet! I love the value you get for this money + the paint job is great.
Looks like it comes with either Entity wheels or C60s now. C60 seems a little deeper than I would want. Did you get the shimano power meter with it? I keep seeing it doesn’t have a great rep with accuracy
I bought that bike last year, and one thing I really love about it is the flatness of the integrated handlebar. Last week I went to a race with a big downhill, and I would literally rest my chest on the bar while going downhill (it felt like the supertuck, but much safer). Every single lap I would pass a lot of people in that position
Thank you for this awesome review. Here in Indonesia, people are still proud of riding those foreign brands instead of Polygon as the local heroes. Perhaps when it reaches global recognition, Indonesian cyclists would have been used Polygon as the local pride bikes. Warm regards from Indonesia 🙏
Jesus...first from the first second. BEAST MODE. and i'd agree with you, proper fit makes the world of difference. Especially when you're putting down power and can stay efficient and aero easier and longer.
Ya, I'd be interested in a long term review. Also, do you use Whoop? Just wonder if you used fitness trackers or not. Impressive power after a year a riding, it's been fun following you since you broke off from NorCal. Keep it going and stay safe!
This bike is great! What doesnt get spoken about much is that it comes with great customer service.. Only issue i had wasnt with the bike, but the 9200-P powermeter... twice! First one didnt output power or cadence to my Edge530 and the brand new replacement from Shimano didnt get power at all (dead). BikeOnline have been great so far in troubleshooting and willingness to help and get me back on the road. Hopefully all sorted soon!
I'd also say, be prepared to replace handlebar tape as its trash, had no issues with Entity wheels, they seem faster than my SLR1 wheels on my TCR being 50mm vs 42mm, probs a combination of depth and aero frame / handlebars. Handlbars are elite!
I really like my Helios A8X. The difference between the 9 and the 8X is Dura Ace vs Ultegra. Everything else is the same. The A9X has a nicer paint job though.
Man, I really wanted to pick one of their 105 builds up, but Giant beat them out with the sale they ran around the new year on the TCR. Glad to see that either bike would’ve been good, maybe once I’m due an upgrade, I’ll check these out
I wish I wasn't working when you showed up to the Tour of Newport News here.. Would've loved to meet ya, been watching your journey. Strong work my friend!
Have you tested any e-bikes.. and if so, do any come even close to an off-the-shelf pro bike*, in terms of center-of-gravity (lower/narrower), long stems, disc brakes, electronic wireless shifting systems, etc... BMC TeamMachine SLR01 Trek-Segafredo: Emonda Movistar: Canyon Aeroad CFR Astana - Premier Tech: Wilier Zero SLR Bahrain Victorious: Merida Reacto Team-E EF Education-Nippo: Cannondale Supersix Also, any thoughts on conversion kits.. like Swytch Go or Yose or Smartfit? I imagine it's in the same class as lower-priced ebikes.. Aventon Level 2, Soltera.2 , Gravel Roadster v2 , Velotric T1 ST or Velotric Discover 1?
Love your videos... and it will be interesting if u can make a exclusive video comparing Giant TCR & Polygon Helios... Stiffness, comfort, value etc...
when your in your tt position on ur road bike try putting just your pinky under the hood and rest your forearm on the bars so your wrists don't hurt and its more aero 9:10
Wow Polygon bike is excellent, Its an Indonesian Brand but i think it got plenty of potential in crit scene due to its(relatively) low cost but still badass build and wheelset
Great video. I'm contemplating making a buy. You said you rode a 56 prior. Is the bike you rode in this video a 58 ( i think they reference it as a XL). I currently ride a Scott Addict 56 that i am very happy with. The tool online says a Large. I an 6. tall and have the "suggested leg and arm length that the online measurement references. How tall are you and can you confirm the size you rode? Thanks
Just started watching as I'm getting into road biking. Been watching Tour de France since I was a little boy and now seeing your journey has been awesome. Local guy to is awesome. Any tips on finding a bike for starting that won't break the bank as a college student?
I’m not EJ but I started in college. Try to buy used, if your university has a cycling club, get with them and ask about getting started. I got my first road bike from my club.
What's your height and inseam (regarding the 58 frame). I've always gone for the 56 but I'm currently also considering getting a 58 (186cm/6'1). I'm mainly looking for better handling and stability.
Yeah the website suggests above 5’9” is an XL, which is weird! I’m really considering this bike, but it’s a tough one without trying it, especially since I usually ride a large.
Chainring was for sponsor correct chain rings, wheels same thing (but their stock wheels are the best) saddle was also because performance bikes had me do a video on the s works saddle. Honestly out of those 3 I’d highly recommend new wheels. Besides that all the rest is kind of personal touches!
Save an additional 1000$ (minimum) if something needs to be repaired or changed. Especially the cabling thru the aero bars. Your mechanic is gonna love you... or, as in other cases (Canyon Endurance SLX, with its "awesome" width-adjustable-bars) simply refuse to do it. Trust me, everything comes with it's cost.
hey EJ, love your videos: Quick question: What's your height? I am 1,92 meter and currently ride a 58 cm frame bike and might change to. a 60 cm bike. Have a good one :)
Polygon is HUGE. They even make the frames for many other companies, so this is really just cutting out a middleman. Cool tour of their factory: ua-cam.com/video/0i8JbI61bTw/v-deo.html
@@Ejstrainingcamp dude for real?! YT does that to your video!? WTAF? I had no idea they were munging the video that hard post-upload. Man what a PITA. Keep em coming, and love the new bike!
Just a casual solo TT W disguised as a bike review. Unreal power 😵💫
Lol bike racing is easy, just pedal harder
A bike review through a smash session feels more genuine and credible compared to other reviews which talks about it while sitting down behind the camera :)
I first saw a Helios bike on a Malaysian cyclist's channel (Melvin Tan) late last year and had no idea what the bike was. It looked great, but had no idea what it was. This is awesome that you've done a review on it!!! Props!!!
Back to the past, Polygon has its own road bike team. Called Polygon Sweet Nice. This team is strengthened by several big names, such as Sergey Kuzmin (Kazakhstan), Oscar Pujol Munoz (Spain), also Edgar Nieto (Spain). And talk about the Polygon brand, i used to be a junior cyclist of course my first bike is Polygon. Right here, in Indonesia this is the famous brand for Amateur. Hope you enjoy that bike, also Good Luck for All your Race in the Future. Greetings from Indonesia
Polygon Helios is actually also the "Shimano" test bike when developing their groupsets.
They get repainted blue with SHIMANO on the downtube!
My friend have a helios repainted as "ultegra'
It's truly encouraging to witness Malaysia's leading UCI Continental teams, TSG and Polygon, gaining recognition on the global stage beyond Asia. Their success highlights the growing prominence of Malaysian cycling talent and underscores the importance of international acknowledgment for their achievements.🙌🏼🙌🏼😚
Casual 450watts for 10 minutes awesome dude
i grew up riding Polygon back home in Indonesia like some 25 years ago..
Great to see small players emerging, giving a competitive pricing to consumers
Great video EJ! I have the A8X (Ultegra version) and it's been lovely. Great value too.
Love the review videos man, discovered you recently and trying to make it as a 15 yo cyclist myself, you are a huge inspiration 😊
Thank you for the support! Keep crushing it 🫡
Thanks dude!
Omg i remember being a 15 year old racer. We had no coaching on anything. Today the competition is Wayyy higher but the resources to perform at a high level are also. Best wishes, and never quit a race unless it is essential
I got the same bike in December 2023 with the default Entity wheel set. Needed to swap saddle, handlebar to narrower and wheel set to Dura Ace C50 and it's sweet! I love the value you get for this money + the paint job is great.
Looks like it comes with either Entity wheels or C60s now. C60 seems a little deeper than I would want. Did you get the shimano power meter with it? I keep seeing it doesn’t have a great rep with accuracy
That bike is making waves here in Australia. Yes, a bike review would be awesome.
You SMASHED THE ENTIRE FIELD!!! And they're all sold out of my size, but I'm on the list!!
I bought that bike last year, and one thing I really love about it is the flatness of the integrated handlebar. Last week I went to a race with a big downhill, and I would literally rest my chest on the bar while going downhill (it felt like the supertuck, but much safer). Every single lap I would pass a lot of people in that position
just watching u race it against people with factor and stuff is the best review this bike will ever get.
Thank you! I appreciate that!
Hi from Aus. Have had this bike for a year now. So fast!
Hope for many wins for you this season EJ!
Aye! That’s awesome to hear. Thanks for the support! 🫡
Polygon make some awesome bike, the fact they are actually good value is just a bonus IMO, congrats on the sponsorship
congrats on your new whip bro!🎉🎉🎉🎉
Thank you!! All thanks to you guys!
Thank you for this awesome review. Here in Indonesia, people are still proud of riding those foreign brands instead of Polygon as the local heroes. Perhaps when it reaches global recognition, Indonesian cyclists would have been used Polygon as the local pride bikes. Warm regards from Indonesia 🙏
Jesus...first from the first second. BEAST MODE. and i'd agree with you, proper fit makes the world of difference. Especially when you're putting down power and can stay efficient and aero easier and longer.
Ya, I'd be interested in a long term review. Also, do you use Whoop? Just wonder if you used fitness trackers or not. Impressive power after a year a riding, it's been fun following you since you broke off from NorCal. Keep it going and stay safe!
Yes I use Whoop 😊
Well done!!!! Polygon must be smiling!!!!
Nice EJ - Back in January i got a Helios A8X - the value was too good to ignore, maybe I'll see ya around Sonoma County sometime.
This bike is great! What doesnt get spoken about much is that it comes with great customer service.. Only issue i had wasnt with the bike, but the 9200-P powermeter... twice! First one didnt output power or cadence to my Edge530 and the brand new replacement from Shimano didnt get power at all (dead). BikeOnline have been great so far in troubleshooting and willingness to help and get me back on the road. Hopefully all sorted soon!
I'd also say, be prepared to replace handlebar tape as its trash, had no issues with Entity wheels, they seem faster than my SLR1 wheels on my TCR being 50mm vs 42mm, probs a combination of depth and aero frame / handlebars. Handlbars are elite!
How are you liking the power meter? Internet reviews have me worried about reliability. Also, is it single side or dual sided?
I really like my Helios A8X. The difference between the 9 and the 8X is Dura Ace vs Ultegra. Everything else is the same. The A9X has a nicer paint job though.
Man, I really wanted to pick one of their 105 builds up, but Giant beat them out with the sale they ran around the new year on the TCR. Glad to see that either bike would’ve been good, maybe once I’m due an upgrade, I’ll check these out
Kudos that you mention the fit.. which is so extremely underrated imo. Well done btw. Congrats for the win.
Ej I wondered what happened to u didn't see u in norcal no more.... ur a tank bro!
The amount of watts and energy omg .. congrats
Come join us on this new channel! 👍
I wish I wasn't working when you showed up to the Tour of Newport News here.. Would've loved to meet ya, been watching your journey. Strong work my friend!
I’ll be back! Thank you for the support!
Have you tested any e-bikes.. and if so, do any come even close to an off-the-shelf pro bike*, in terms of center-of-gravity (lower/narrower), long stems, disc brakes, electronic wireless shifting systems, etc...
BMC TeamMachine SLR01
Trek-Segafredo: Emonda
Movistar: Canyon Aeroad CFR
Astana - Premier Tech: Wilier Zero SLR
Bahrain Victorious: Merida Reacto
Team-E EF Education-Nippo: Cannondale Supersix
Also, any thoughts on conversion kits.. like Swytch Go or Yose or Smartfit? I imagine it's in the same class as lower-priced ebikes.. Aventon Level 2, Soltera.2 , Gravel Roadster v2 , Velotric T1 ST or Velotric Discover 1?
We want Numbers from This race so I can start crying 😂
Hahaha it’s on my Strava 👍
i have a s2 as my 1st bike ever. still got it.. good fun sturdy bike
Such a nice bike! I've had the A7X for a few months now and it's so good!
Love your videos... and it will be interesting if u can make a exclusive video comparing Giant TCR & Polygon Helios... Stiffness, comfort, value etc...
Terengganu mention, rahhhh🔥🔥🔥
Team mate Jordan low key chasing his team mate tho. Impressive ride!
I was thinking the same thing, but it didn't really change the results, I think it's also a practice crit.
Congrats, you get that feeling in a new bike..probably just placebo effect.
when your in your tt position on ur road bike try putting just your pinky under the hood and rest your forearm on the bars so your wrists don't hurt and its more aero 9:10
Alter Falter!😊 Fromm start to finish, amazing
superb video man!! cheers from Indonesia, I also ride its predecessor Helios 600 😃
Crazy deal for a DA 12sp! Unfortunately being a giant (6'6") I'm outside their range even in their XL
Dang! Yeah it’d be a bit small
Wow Polygon bike is excellent, Its an Indonesian Brand but i think it got plenty of potential in crit scene due to its(relatively) low cost but still badass build and wheelset
I agree! I like it a lot so far!
Great video. I'm contemplating making a buy. You said you rode a 56 prior. Is the bike you rode in this video a 58 ( i think they reference it as a XL). I currently ride a Scott Addict 56 that i am very happy with. The tool online says a Large. I an 6. tall and have the "suggested leg and arm length that the online measurement references.
How tall are you and can you confirm the size you rode?
Thanks
I used to ride a 58, sorry if I said 56. Im 6 foot 3 and the XL fits nicely with a longer stem!
Total noob here. When you are going 30mph on flat city roads what gear ratio are you in?
How does the Polygon support/warranty compare to the big brands?
Looks ace.
Enjoy EJ
GUPPY made the YT page!!
Holy cow the power
glad you just did this review cause this is literally the bike i'm lookin at right now lmfao
Just started watching as I'm getting into road biking. Been watching Tour de France since I was a little boy and now seeing your journey has been awesome. Local guy to is awesome. Any tips on finding a bike for starting that won't break the bank as a college student?
I’m not EJ but I started in college. Try to buy used, if your university has a cycling club, get with them and ask about getting started. I got my first road bike from my club.
I agree with this!
ayyyy Great Vid EJ!
This course looks so fun!
Probably one of my favorite races out there!
What's your height and inseam (regarding the 58 frame). I've always gone for the 56 but I'm currently also considering getting a 58 (186cm/6'1). I'm mainly looking for better handling and stability.
I’m about 6 2! It depends more on the reach in my experience so if you have mongers arms and torso the bigger bike might fit you better.
@@Ejstrainingcampwhat saddle height do you ride?
Yeah the website suggests above 5’9” is an XL, which is weird! I’m really considering this bike, but it’s a tough one without trying it, especially since I usually ride a large.
What upgrades did you do to it bro ????
Keep ‘em comin
A lot of Hellios have slipping seat post issues here (similar to Factor Ostro). Hope yours is fine 😊
Looks so sick!!!
The color is sick eh? 🤪
normalized power?
I got that bike. Had it for nearly a year. Made a few mods and dropped the weight to about 7.3kg with pedals, cages and mount. I'm still happy with it
That’s awesome to hear!
why did you change the chainring, the wheels, crankset, and the saddle?
Chainring was for sponsor correct chain rings, wheels same thing (but their stock wheels are the best) saddle was also because performance bikes had me do a video on the s works saddle. Honestly out of those 3 I’d highly recommend new wheels. Besides that all the rest is kind of personal touches!
@@Ejstrainingcamp cool, whats your height and what size did you get?
@@user-tk5ir1hg7l Im 6 foot 3 inches and I got an XL
This was sweet
What power meter do you have? Also loosing a lot of watts with the wide bars, shorts and bibs…
Didn’t look like he was needing those lost watts 😅
When EJ doesn’t even have a front camera, you know what his plans are. Byeeeeeeee
EJ....how does this bike stack up against the tcr in terms of performance and ride feel?
I’ll answer that in the long term review! So far so good though!
@@Ejstrainingcamp Aight EJ we're looking forward to it!👌👌🚴♂️
Im all about that color 🔥🔥🔥 how you not mention throwing that rotor on ?
Hahaha ive been on rotor for awhile
Nice Video! What brand is your jersey? looks awesome! Thank You
Glad you joined the Helios club. I’ve been enjoying mine for the last year, I’m sure you will have many more results on it. Cheers EJ
did this come stock with Reserve wheels?
No
Nice bike, let us know how you get on with it!
Beast Mode
I’m so tempted to get this haha
It’s a sweet bike!
@@Ejstrainingcamp what was your rig before this?
@@Bravonewyork Giant TCR
How tall are you?
How does it compare to your TCR?
I’d say it feels a bit better, but a lot of that has to do with fit.
From the flag drop. You menace!
INDONESIA Proud 🇮🇩
what mods from stock are on yours?
Nice job!!
I’m thinking about throwing down some cash for the Strattos S8 - it’ll be my first “real” bike 🚴
Save an additional 1000$ (minimum) if something needs to be repaired or changed. Especially the cabling thru the aero bars. Your mechanic is gonna love you... or, as in other cases (Canyon Endurance SLX, with its "awesome" width-adjustable-bars) simply refuse to do it. Trust me, everything comes with it's cost.
hey EJ, love your videos: Quick question: What's your height? I am 1,92 meter and currently ride a 58 cm frame bike and might change to. a 60 cm bike.
Have a good one :)
Thank you! I’m about 6 foot 2 inches tall (let me go convert real quick on Google) 1.88 meters
@@Ejstrainingcamp thanks :) So you usually ride 58 cm bike sizes?
I think about getting an xl aeroad but the l is just nicer looking :D
Give us the long term brother
Working on it right now!
i am scratching my head when did 5k bike become affordable
damn how nice is that dura ace groupset ?
i have a 160mm crank with di2, shit is smooth
I love it
Congratulations on the new sponsor and the bike looks great! Keen to hear more on the long term review 🤙🏻
review your new bike online, it made me want to buy one, very good price
very nice dog, is it a Boston?? I have one
Yes it’s a Boston 😊
I was at tour of Newport News, I didn't say hi because I didn't want to be just a fan boy... even though I am hahaha.
Hi! You should’ve said what’s up!
Wish they would ship it to Germany for that price…
w video
❤️
How tall is he?
Im about 6 foot 3 inches
NICE Indonesian made bike❤
What size did u get?
58
Newport News?
Yup! I was just out there! Video coming soon!
Polygon is HUGE. They even make the frames for many other companies, so this is really just cutting out a middleman. Cool tour of their factory: ua-cam.com/video/0i8JbI61bTw/v-deo.html
Is this Gina?
bro is just afraid to say anything bad about the sponsor
Those stock wheels are garbage, in 3 months I have destroyed the rear hub. And the saddle needs replacing right away
Voice sound level: 3
Music sound level: 11
dude. wtf?
Yeah, I’m sorry about that. It’s an issue with UA-cam’s sound mixing. Sounds perfect until uploaded and posted. I’ll work on a fix for future videos.
@@Ejstrainingcamp dude for real?! YT does that to your video!? WTAF? I had no idea they were munging the video that hard post-upload. Man what a PITA.
Keep em coming, and love the new bike!
decathlon van rysel for 5k is better
Which model you referring to since the cheapest RCR starts at $5500 USD?
Nice bike, but it's basically a propel
Pretty close lol
A nice electric bike is on my radar, not this promo bull. Thumbsdown for these promo dying breeds