ALL-IN AERO
THE ALL-NEW TRINITY ADVANCED SL SERIES
LIGHTER. FASTER. MORE CONTROL.
Every triathlon is its own challenge. No two time trial routes are exactly alike.
Triathletes might face scorching temperatures and windswept roads, like those of Ironman Kona. Or they can be challenged by steep climbs and technical descents on hillier courses like Ironman Nice. The only constant is the ticking clock that determines a result.
The new Trinity Advanced SL is engineered to unlock new possibilities, combining straight-ahead aero efficiency with dynamic speed, plus an incredibly wide range of adjustments and adaptability. With a frameset that’s significantly lighter and more efficient than the previous generation Trinity Advanced Pro, plus all-new integrated solutions to help squeeze out more speed, it’s the ultimate advantage in any race against the clock.
Simple adjustment possibilities make this two bikes in one, delivering uncompromising performance in both triathlons and time trials. The choice is yours: The Trinity Advanced SL series is designed primarily for triathlons, while the Trinity Advanced SL TT frameset is made for time trials. Both are built on the same frameset crafted with Giant’s highest-grade Advanced SL composite featuring AeroSystem Shaping Technology.
The differences come down to setup: The Tri series features multiple models with different component levels including the flagship Trinity Advanced SL 0. Every model in the series comes equipped with an integrated hydration system and larger capacity bento box.
The Trinity Advanced SL TT frameset has been developed, tested and raced (on prototype models) by riders from the Jayco AlUla WorldTour squad. The TT frameset includes an integrated down tube water bottle and cage that was designed specifically for aero optimization with the frameset.
Ultimately, the numbers tell the story of cutting-edge performance for modern triathlon and TT competition: an overall weight savings of 558g, a 5.9-watt aero advantage, and a more personalized fit with 24 times more armrest settings to choose.
FULL-SPEED DYNAMICS
One of the primary goals in developing the new Trinity Advanced SL was to meet the challenges of modern triathlon and TT courses. The courses are getting more diverse, the times are getting faster. That means a bike must go beyond pure, straight-ahead speed and place equal focus on efficient climbing capabilities, greater control on fast descents, and pinpoint control for cornering.
Working with Giant’s professional triathletes including 2022 Ironman World Champion Gustav Iden, the development team focused on making Trinity more dynamic and adaptable. Like many triathletes, Iden competes in everything from full Ironman races to 70.3 events on widely varying types of terrain. He demands a bike that gives him confidence and a competitive edge for any distance, on flat or hilly terrain.
The improvements start with new integrated disc brakes that add a significant level of control with zero compromises in aero efficiency (see page 9). The fork is designed with an angled shape at the bottom of the fork leg where the brake is mounted, shielding the caliper from wind and reducing turbulence.
Using the highest-grade Advanced SL-grade composite (compared to Advanced composite in the previous generation), the new frameset is 558g lighter, which helps improve its stiffness-to-weight ratio by 12.6%. The result is a much more dynamic ride quality that allows you to climb faster, accelerate quicker, and hold speed in variable terrain.
The new Trinity Advanced SL series also delivers a much smoother ride quality with greater compliance engineered into two key areas: the armrests and the seatpost. The new armrest design features 28% more compliance (over the outgoing model) to absorb bumps and vibrations traveling up through the fork and the front end of the bike. The seatpost has also been redesigned to offer 100% greater compliance (over the outgoing model), allowing for smoother pedaling and power transfer with less fatigue over long distances.
Reaching and maintaining the highest speeds possible over an entire triathlon or TT course requires aero efficiency and power transmission, but it also means optimizing a rider’s ability to produce that power. The new integrated fueling system on the Triathlon models addresses this by delivering hydration from a large reservoir, which sits lower on the frameset, through a straw located on the handlebar extensions.
The hydration system, combined with a new, larger capacity bento box that holds up to six, 32g energy gels and is positioned on the top tube for easy access, allows the rider to fuel with less disruption, resulting in more consistent power and efficiency.
ULTIMATE AERO EFFICIENCY
AeroSystem Shaping Technology means that every tube shape and junction on the new Trinity Advanced SL series is meticulously shaped to minimize drag. The new series marks the culmination of a longtime development process that combines Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis with wind-tunnel testing.
This process analyzes the distinct airflow conditions that each area of the frame encounters and then optimizes performance of the frameset as a cohesive unit. Every section is engineered and tested extensively to minimize drag and control airflow across all relevant yaw angles.
A critical part of the process involves wind-tunnel tests using a dynamic mannequin with anatomically correct, articulating legs. This allows engineers to measure not only pressure drag and friction drag, but also the precise interaction that occurs between the rider and bicycle in motion. By using a dynamic mannequin rather than a human rider, engineers can achieve more consistent testing, eliminating unwanted variables such as changes in body position or pedaling cadence.
Some of the key changes to the new Trinity Advanced SL frameset over the previous generation include modified truncated ellipse shaping on the head tube, down tube, fork and seatpost. Also, with the addition of disc brakes, the frame and fork have specific new tubing shapes to integrate the front and rear calipers in a way that minimizes aerodynamic drag.
One of the most impactful changes over the previous generation is the new integrated fueling system. The system includes a large hydration reservoir (850ml for size medium and large frames; 700ml for size small), and an integrated bento box that sits on the top tube behind the handlebar extensions. These additions help improve overall aerodynamic performance, with the result being a 5.9-watt aero advantage over the previous generation (see page 9).
PERSONALIZED FIT
Every race against the clock, from full Ironman distances to shorter TT efforts, demands that a rider balance aerodynamic efficiency with comfort so he can ride in an optimal position. To help facilitate this, the new Trinity Advanced SL series offers a far greater range of adjustability and fit options.
The engineering team worked with Giant’s pro triathletes including Gustav Iden to create a system that allows riders of all body types and positioning preferences to dial in a perfect fit. There are now four seatpost offset positions (compared to two in the previous generation) offering a total range of 51mm, which is 11mm more than the previous design.
The cockpit has also been completely redesigned to offer more armrest adjustments. The stack range increases from 60mm to 80mm, reach goes from 60mm to 75mm, width goes from six settings to eight, and there are now three armrest angle options (0, 10 or 15 degrees). In addition, the extensions go from two width settings to four. It all adds up to 24 times more settings to help riders achieve the perfect position.
All these adjustments can be made using simple spacers and two-bolt mechanisms. Four-time UCI World Time Trial Champion Tony Martin, a Giant ambassador who has been testing prototype models over the past year, said the wider range of adjustability is one of the most noticeable improvements.
“When you are able to have a comfortable, stable position that’s perfect for your body and riding style, it allows you to produce more power for longer on different types of terrain,” Martin said. “For me the bike feels noticeably faster now. The handling is the biggest improvement compared to the older model. It feels very stable whether you’re in the arm rests or on the horns, hammering flats or cornering. I also notice the stiffer, more efficient feel on the climbs.”
ADJUSTABILITY
Both the triathlon and time trial versions of the Trinity Advanced SL offer a wide range of personalized fit options to perfectly suit every rider’s unique needs. The charts below indicate the updated range of armrest height and length adjustment of the new Trinity Advanced SL (blue) versus the previous Trinity Advanced Pro (black).
TRI
WEIGHT COMPARISON
While seemingly objective, frameset weight can be a highly subjective variable. It all depends on what is considered a frameset. Giant defines a frameset as follows:
-Size medium, painted/decaled production frame
-Production fork
-Headset/expander/top cap
-Seatpost (ISP or seatpost included with frameset)
-Seat clamp
-Front and rear derailleur hanger/clamps
-All production hardware (water bottle bolts, etc.)
-Aero handlebars and extensions
STIFFNESS
Stiffness was assessed using the protocols established by industry standards on size medium framesets. Giant tested both steering (lateral) and pedaling stiffness with a corresponding fork in place. This provides a far more accurate measure of how a bicycle will perform in real-world conditions and helps ensure that our testing procedures translate into performance gains that can be felt on the road.
Our testing determined how much the complete frameset flexed torsionally under load. Each frame was locked at the rear dropouts with lateral force applied to the fork.
The goal with the new Trinity Advanced SL was to match the high stiffness level of the previous generation, even though the weight is now significantly lower. As the data below reveals, frame, fork and transmission stiffness remains the same. This translates to improved power transfer, more responsive cornering and handling, and increased efficiency on the road.
STIFFNESS ANALYSIS
EFFICIENCY
By maintaining stiffness and decreasing weight, the new Trinity Advanced SL series significantly boosts its overall efficiency (stiffness-to-weight) ratio.
EFFICIENCY ANALYSIS
Luke Plapp
INTEGRATED AERODYNAMICS
The previous generation Trinity introduced a more aerodynamic frameset using new truncated ellipse tubing in strategic areas. To engineer that advancement, we used Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and wind-tunnel testing to create new airfoil sections that consistently lower drag coefficients at a wider range of yaw angles compared to traditional “teardrop” frameset shaping.
This new Trinity Advanced SL takes the aerodynamic engineering another step forward. The most significant gains are achieved in the down tube, seatpost and fork shaping. To ensure that it performs just as well in real-world conditions, we designed the aerodynamic flow around the down tube equipped with the AeroVault hydration system. From there, we refined the entire system including frame, fork, cockpit and WheelSystem at the GST wind tunnel in Immenstaad, Germany.
To best simulate actual riding conditions, we used a dynamic mannequin to replicate real-world riding forces and conditions without the inconsistent variables inherent to testing with human riders. While other brands typically use a static mannequin, our dynamic version more accurately reveals the aerodynamic effects of a rider while pedaling.
The testing protocol used a 28 mph (45 kph) wind speed in a temperature and humidity-controlled environment, with yaw angles ranging from -20 to +20 degrees. With the dynamic mannequin, spinning wheels and moving drivetrain, we were able to produce the most accurate aerodynamic analysis possible.
*Front and rear of new CADEX 4-Spoke Disc WheelSystem compared to front and rear of CADEX 65 WheelSystem, drag at 45kph, from -20 to +20 degree yaw angles (watts)
ADVANCED SL COMPOSITE TECHNOLOGY
Professional Grade raw carbon fiber is used to produce our lightest, stiffest and highest quality frames. This is the technology used by Giant’s pro racers in almost every cycling discipline. These frames feature the most advanced engineering and construction methods.
Professional Grade raw carbon material is used to engineer framesets with the highest stiffness-to-weight ratios available today.
2. RESIN
Professional Formula resin features Carbon Nanotube Technology (CNT), a microscopic polymer that acts like miniature buttresses to strengthen the layers of composite. Frames featuring CNT are 14 percent more impact resistant than those without it.
3. CONTINUOUS FIBER TECHNOLOGY
This manufacturing process allows the front triangle of Advanced SL frames to be constructed with larger, and therefore fewer, sections of composite material. With fewer pieces and junctions, these frames are lighter and significantly stronger.
TRINITYADVANCED SL
The new Trinity Advanced SL is built on an Advanced SL-grade composite frame and fork that’s 558g lighter than the previous generation with a improvement in efficiency by 12.6%. It features new disc brake integration for greater control along with added compliance in the armrests and seatpost to help absorb bumps and vibrations. The front end of the bike is totally redesigned with more armrest adjustments for stack, reach, angle and width, while a wider range of seatpost offset options allows the rider to dial in a powerful, comfortable pedaling position.
TECHNOLOGY
1 ADVANCED SL COMPOSITE
Professional-grade raw carbon combined with the most advanced engineering and construction methods results in an overall weight savings of 558g compared to the previous-generation Trinity Advanced Pro frameset without compromising stiffness and power transmission.
2 AEROSYSTEM SHAPING TECHNOLOGY
Using CFD and dynamic wind-tunnel testing, engineers optimize each tube shape to deliver superior aerodynamic performance.
3 AERODRIVE TRI COMPOSITE BASE BAR
Trinity Advanced SL’s proprietary, triathlon-specific 5:1 airfoil base bar delivers the ultimate in aerodynamic performance and a wider range of adjustment compared to the previous generation.
4 ADJUSTABLE ARMRESTS
New armrest design offers a wider range of adjustments, allowing a comfortable fit and performance for all riders. With 24x more positioning options (stack, reach, angle and width), it’s easier than ever to dial in fit for all body types and any riding position using a simple two-bolt mechanism.
5 4-POSITION SEATPOST OFFSET
New seatpost design features four offset positions (compared to two on previous generation) and a wider range of 51mm overall (compared to 40mm on previous design) to help riders achieve an efficient, comfortable pedaling position
6 POWERCORE
A massively oversized bottom bracket area features a fully integrated 86mm wide design. Asymmetric chainstays provide additional stiffness on the driveside and increased stability on the non-driveside.
7 AEROVAULT SYSTEM
Integrated fueling system includes hydration reservoir (either 850ml or 700ml) and easy-access drinking straw near the armrests, plus a top tube mounted bento box that stores up to six, 32g gel packets. Entire system is designed using CFD analysis and wind-tunnel testing to optimize and improve overall aerodynamic performance
8 INTERNAL CABLE ROUTING
Derailleur and brake housing hidden from the wind for maximum aerodynamic advantage and improved aesthetics.
9 GIANT TUBELESS SYSTEM
Integrated Tubeless WheelSystem and tires delivers improved efficiency, comfort and control in the most user-friendly and reliable system.
10 DISC-BRAKE INTEGRATION
The frame and fork are engineered specifically for disc brakes using aero shaping to help minimize drag, giving riders confident braking performance in all weather and road conditions.
Trinity Advanced SL 0
TRINITY ADVANCED SL
From windswept flats to climbs, corners and descents, the new Trinity Advanced SL delivers dynamic speed and control when every second counts. Easily adaptable to triathlon or TT, and featuring aero-integrated hydration and fueling systems, it’s lighter, more aerodynamic and smoother riding than the previous generation, with greater adjustability to dial in position and fit.
KEY PERFORMANCE FACTORS
FULL-SPEED DYNAMICS
All-new composite frameset designed for flat-out speed and pinpoint control when racing against the clock. 558g less weight for faster climbing, integrated disc brakes for confident cornering and descending, added compliance for smoother ride performance, plus an integrated bento box and hydration straw to help riders produce full power without disturbing their riding position.
ULTIMATE AERO EFFICIENCY
AeroSystem Shaping Technology with truncated ellipse tubing for a 5.9-watt aero advantage and greater stiffness-to-weight ratio over previous generation Trinity. In addition, the hydration reservoir, bottles and bento box form an aero-optimized, integrated fueling system.
PERSONALIZED FIT
With a far greater range of adjustability compared to previous Trinity models—including four seatpost offset positions (51mm range) and 24x more armrest
options (stack, reach, angle and width)—it’s easier than ever to dial in fit for all body types and any riding position using simple two-bolt mechanisms.
FRAME GEOMETRY
(UNITS IN MM UNLESS OTHERWISE INDICATED)
TRINITY ADVANCED SL TT FRAMESET
CARBON/CHROME
TRINITY ADVANCED SL TRIATHION FRAMESET
CARBON/CHROME
