Firstly, we need to understand what the differences are between the two. Secondly, which one is right for you? Here, we run through the differences between the two frame platforms. Detailing exactly what you get for trading up from one to the other, in terms of the R872 vs Endurance SL.

R872

This is the latest iteration of the award-winning carbon road bike that received rave reviews from our cycling peers. It's lighter, stiffer, and more comfortable than comparable alloy bikes, at a great price point.  This makes the R872 a great choice for aspiring racers, fast commuters, or sportive riders. Available in disc and caliper versions, you have the option to select one of our recommended builds. However, should you have an exact build in mind, our easy-to-use BikeBuilder allows you to customise the spec to suit your cycling needs.

If you want to take this personalisation to the next level, you can add your own personal paint design. CustomColour in BikeBuilder allows you the complete freedom to engage your inner artist and create your own visual masterpiece. Be bold, bright or as stealthy as you like. Your Bike. Your Way.

Endurance SL

Trading up from the R872, the Endurance SL is the ideal choice for the serious road rider who doesn't compromise when it comes to speed and performance. The Endurance SL sits between the R872 and our flagship Endurance SL R series platform. It borrows heavily from the performance-enhancing features of the SL R. Sharing a similar advanced monocoque construction to that of the SL R and the same drag-efficient frame shaping.

Customisation is offered through a multitude of disc and caliper BikeBuilder options. Again, you can personalise the look of the bike by designing your own colour scheme with the CustomColour tool in BikeBuilder, for a truly unique look.

The R872 has a 'sportive' geometry, which essentially means that it has a slightly taller front end and shorter reach than the SL.  This results in a slightly more upright riding position that promotes all-day-in-the-saddle comfort.  It also provides stable handling but with a hint of raciness when you want to press on or enjoy your favourite switchback descent.

The Endurance SL has an 'endurance' geometry, offering the rider the ability to fine-tune their fit to achieve a more performance or race-inspired position. The handling is direct but controlled, and this bike is equally at home in a fast criterium race as it is a full day in the mountains.

The R872 is constructed in a more traditional way, while incorporating some of the more contemporary design features, like internally routed cables. Some of the more prominent features of the R872 are;

• A multi-part carbon mould process - This makes the frame lighter, stiffer, and stronger than comparable alloy frames.
• Carefully profiled tubing - Just the right combination of stiffness, weight, and comfort.
• Seat stay profile - Dropped seat stays result in a more compact rear triangle for a more responsive rear end, whilst gaining enhanced compliance and comfort on uneven roads and long-distance rides.
• Full monocoque carbon fibre forks - Lighter, stiffer, and more comfortable than alloy.
• Seat post and seat clamp - The R872 uses a traditional round seat post in a 27.2mm diameter and an external seat clamp.
• Specification -  Available to order with Tiagra or 105, and with selected build options to personalise the build and fit to your own preference.

The Level 5 Carbon Integrated handlebar system enables each cable to be completely hidden for enhanced aerodynamics and a super-clean look.

As we alluded to earlier, the Endurance SL borrows many of the performance-enhancing features of the flagship EnduranceSL R series. So, trading up to the SL series frame offers a significant performance advantage. The key features of the SL are listed below.

• Toray T800/T1000 Carbon - The highest quality carbon fibre used in cycling frame manufacture today. Formed from a single integral piece of carbon, it helps distribute stress over a wider proportion of the frame. Making it one of the lightest and strongest frames available.
• A Full EPS inner core system  - This technique allows for the perfect distribution of the carbon fibres and eliminates imperfections and weak spots during layup.
• Tubing Profiles - Truncated aerofoil tubing for better aerodynamic efficiency.  This provides a drag reduction of 28% in comparison to the R872.
• Forks -  A full monocoque carbon fibre fork, the entire fork is constructed from one piece of carbon which makes the steering stiff and precise, with greater vibration absorption.
• Enhanced seat stay profile - Dropped seat stays provide a more compact rear triangle for a more responsive rear end and optimal power transfer. It also provides more vertical compliance which allows the seat post and seat tube to flex slightly. Offering enhanced protection from 'road buzz' for more comfort over uneven surfaces and longer rides.
• Seatpost and Integrated Seatclamp - A wind-cheating truncated aerofoil seat post is paired with an integrated wedge-style clamp. This wedge is seamlessly hidden within the frame and contributes to the overall aero gains.
• Compatibility with carbon integrated bars and stem - The LEVEL 5  Carbon integrated handlebar system enables each cable to be fully hidden within the frame. Reducing drag by up to 43% when compared to a traditional handlebar and stem and keeping everything neat and tidy
• Di2 Electronic integration - The Di2 junction box can be integrated within the frameset while remaining accessible. This allows for seamless integration between the frame, Di2 cables, and charging port.
• Specification - There is a full choice of build options. Ranging from Shimano 105 11-speed right through to the fully wireless shifts of SRAM's Red eTap AXS 12-speed ecosystem. There's also increased customisation options to help you personalise the build to fit your cycling needs and preference.

Left image highlights the clean lines of the integrated wedge when compared to the standard external collar.

If you are interested in the techniques of carbon construction why not take a look at our carbon frame construction blog? This offers a fascinating insight into how premium carbon framesets are constructed.

We hope this blog goes some way to outlining the difference between the R872 vs Endurance SL. The R872 is a great choice for the aspiring racer, fast-paced commuter, or sportive rider looking for an accessible carbon road bike.

On the other hand, the Endurance SL offers significant performance gains over the R872. Trading up from the R872, the Endurance SL suits the serious endurance rider or racer who is looking for a performance advantage.

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