Quick Verdict
Yes – the Felt FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 is a great race bike. It pairs a stiff, light carbon frame with Shimano Ultegra Di2 electronic shifting and hydraulic disc brakes. The trade-off is price and a racy fit that suits serious riders more than casual ones.
The FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 is a high-performance road bike that has been designed for the most demanding road cyclists. With its advanced carbon fiber frame, the bike is incredibly stiff and responsive, providing maximum pedaling efficiency and handling feedback.
It is equipped with Shimano Ultegra Di2 electronic groupset, which delivers smooth, precise shifting and reliable performance. The FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 has been meticulously crafted to meet the needs of serious road cyclists who demand the best equipment.
The bike has been designed to be lightweight and aerodynamic, allowing riders to achieve maximum speeds with minimal effort. It features a sleek, modern design that is both stylish and functional, with clean lines and a minimalist aesthetic that emphasizes performance over aesthetics.
It is a top-of-the-line bike that has been designed with the needs of competitive riders in mind, and it delivers on every level. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a weekend warrior, the FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 is a bike that will help you achieve your goals and take your cycling to the next level.
Overview
Design and Features
The FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 road bike from Felt Bicycles is a top-of-the-line model designed for serious road racers.
It offers exceptional handling and pedaling efficiency, along with a modern fit that allows riders to achieve their most powerful riding position.
The bike is equipped with Shimano’s Ultegra Di2 electronic group and hydraulic disc brakes, making it a high-performance machine that can handle even the toughest road conditions.
The Lineup
Felt Road Bike Types
The FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 sits in the middle of Felt’s road range. Here is how it compares with the other Felt road bikes.
FR Advanced 105
For those who are looking for a more affordable option, the FR Advanced 105 is worth considering.
This bike is built with Shimano 105 components, which are still high-quality but not as advanced as Ultegra Di2.
The FR Advanced 105 is also slightly heavier than the Ultegra Di2 version, but it still offers impressive performance and handling.
FR FRD Ultimate Dura-Ace Di2
At the top of the FR family is the FR FRD Ultimate Dura-Ace Di2. It uses Felt’s stiffer UHC Ultimate carbon and Shimano’s top Dura-Ace Di2 group, so it is lighter and more expensive than the Ultegra Di2 model.
AR Advanced Ultegra
If you’re looking for an aero road bike, the AR Advanced Ultegra is a great option. This bike is designed with aerodynamics in mind and features a more aggressive riding position than the FR Advanced Ultegra Di2.
It also has disc brakes, which provide better stopping power in wet conditions. The AR Advanced Ultegra is a bit heavier than the FR Advanced Ultegra Di2, but it is still a fast and responsive bike.
VR Endurance Bikes
If you want a more relaxed ride for long days and rough roads, Felt’s VR range offers endurance geometry, room for wider tires and a more upright position than the FR race bikes.
Build Quality
Components and Frames
Frames
The FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 features a frame and fork made from several unique types of carbon fibers.
UHC Advanced Carbon
The UHC (“Ultra Hybrid Carbon”) Advanced fiber is high-modulus, meaning that it’s incredibly stiff to maximize pedaling efficiency and handling feedback.
The frame is not quite as stiff as its more expensive sibling. UHC Ultimate (which is found on the FR FRD Ultimate model), but it’s still a top-of-the-line material that provides excellent performance.
Fork
The Felt Road 3.0 fork uses the same UHC Advanced and TeXtreme carbon fiber as the frame, so the front end stays stiff and precise when you corner hard.
Components
The bike’s drivetrain components are equally impressive.
Drivetrain
The Shimano Ultegra Di2 electronic group provides precise and smooth shifting, and the hydraulic disc brakes offer exceptional stopping power in all conditions.
The bike’s gearing is optimized for road racing, with a 52/36T chainring and an Shimano Ultegra R8000, 11-30T cassette.
Brakes
The hydraulic disc brakes on the FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 are a standout feature.
They offer exceptional stopping power in all conditions, whether you’re racing down a steep descent or navigating wet roads.
The brakes are easy to modulate, providing riders with excellent control and confidence.
Wheels
The bike rolls on Reynolds AR41 DB Custom carbon wheels with Shimano hubs. The 41mm-deep rims are light and aero, and they are tubeless-ready, with Reynolds tubeless valve stems in the box.
Ride Feel
Comfort and Performance
When it comes to road bikes, comfort and fit are crucial for long rides and optimal performance. The Felt FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 is designed with both in mind.
Saddle and Handlebars
The saddle and handlebars are two key components that impact the comfort and fit of a road bike.
The FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 comes equipped with a Prologo Nago Evo saddle, which is designed to provide a balance of comfort and performance.
The saddle is made with a carbon fiber base and lightweight foam padding, and its shape is optimized for a more aggressive riding position.
The handlebars on the FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 are also designed for optimal comfort and fit.
The bike comes with a Felt VR OS SuperLite handlebar, which features a compact drop and short reach for a more comfortable riding position.
The handlebars are also made with lightweight carbon fiber, which helps to reduce overall weight and improve performance.
Geometry
The geometry of a road bike is another important factor in its comfort and fit.
The FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 is designed with a performance-oriented geometry that is optimized for speed and efficiency.
The bike has a relatively short wheelbase and a steep head tube angle, which helps to improve handling and responsiveness.
Despite its performance-oriented geometry, the FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 is still designed with comfort in mind.
The bike has a slightly taller head tube than some other road bikes, which helps to reduce strain on the neck and back. Additionally, the bike’s carbon fiber frame is designed to absorb road vibrations and provide a smoother ride.
Performance Features
The FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 is a high-performance road racing bike that offers an exceptional riding experience.
Its design is focused on speed, agility, and responsiveness, making it an excellent choice for competitive riders.
Shifting
One of the standout features of the FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 is its electronic shifting system.
The Shimano Ultegra Di2 shifters and derailleurs offer precise and reliable shifting, allowing riders to quickly and easily change gears without any lag or delay.
The bike also features a compact Shimano Ultegra R8070 crankset 11-speed, which provides smooth and efficient power transfer.
Braking
The FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 is equipped with high-performance Shimano Ultegra R8070 brakes, which offer excellent stopping power and control.
The brakes are responsive and easy to modulate, allowing riders to confidently navigate steep descents and tight corners.
Handling
The FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 is a nimble and responsive bike that handles exceptionally well.
Its lightweight frame and carbon fiber fork provide excellent stiffness and responsiveness, allowing riders to easily maneuver through tight corners and technical sections of the course.
The bike’s geometry is also designed to provide a comfortable and stable ride, even at high speeds.
Specs
FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 Bike Specifications
| Part | Specs |
|---|---|
| Frame | FeltRoad 3.0 | UHC Advanced + TeXtreme carbon fiber |
| Fork | Felt Road 3.0 | UHC Advanced + TeXtreme carbon fiber |
| Drivetrain | Shimano Ultegra Di2 R8070 |
| Brakes | Shimano Ultegra R8070, hydraulic disc, flat mount |
| Wheels | Reynolds AR41 DB Custom, Shimano |
| Cockpit | Devox DBar.C1 |
| Seat | Prologo Dimension 143 T4.0 |
| Weight | 16.59 lb, 7.54 kg |
| Extras | Shimano SM-BCR2 battery charger / Shimano hose fitting kit (2x olives and connector inserts) / Reynolds tubeless valve stems (2x55mm) / Carbon assembly paste |
Value
Value
The FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 is a top-of-the-line road racing bike that delivers exceptional performance for its price point.
While it may be pricier than some other options on the market, its features and capabilities make it a worthwhile investment for serious cyclists.
One of the key value propositions of the FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 is its electronic shifting system.
The Shimano Ultegra Di2 shifters and derailleurs provide smooth, precise shifting that allows riders to quickly and easily change gears without missing a beat. This feature alone can significantly improve a rider’s performance and make their rides more enjoyable.
Another value-add of the FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 is its lightweight construction.
The bike’s carbon fiber frame and fork make it incredibly light and responsive, allowing riders to easily tackle steep climbs and sharp turns. This feature can be particularly appealing to competitive cyclists who need a bike that can keep up with their demanding training and racing schedules.
In addition to its performance features, the FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 also includes several comfort and convenience features that can enhance a rider’s overall experience.
For example, the bike’s ergonomic handlebars and adjustable seatpost allow riders to customize their riding position for maximum comfort and efficiency.
The bike also comes with tubeless-ready wheels and a range of other components that are designed to reduce maintenance and make it easier to keep the bike in top condition.
Who It’s For
Who Is This Bike For?
The FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 is a high-end road racing bike designed for serious cyclists who want the best performance and technology available.
This bike is ideal for riders who are looking for the following:
- Exceptional handling and pedaling efficiency: The FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 is built with a lightweight carbon frame that is stiff and responsive, providing excellent power transfer and handling. The Ultegra Di2 electronic shifting system ensures smooth and precise gear changes, allowing riders to focus on their performance.
- Modern fit for a powerful riding position: The bike’s geometry is designed to provide a comfortable and powerful riding position, with a longer top tube and shorter stem for improved aerodynamics and control. This makes it ideal for riders who want to push their limits and achieve their best performance.
- Electronic shifting technology: The Ultegra Di2 electronic shifting system is one of the best on the market, offering fast and precise gear changes with minimal effort. This makes it ideal for riders who want to focus on their performance and not worry about shifting gears manually.
- Carbon fiber components: The bike is built with high-quality carbon fiber components, including the handlebar, seat post, and wheels. These components provide excellent stiffness and durability, while reducing weight for improved performance.
Alternatives
Alternatives
While the FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 is an excellent road racing bike, it is not the only option available on the market.
Here are a few alternatives that riders may want to consider:
Other Brands
While Felt Bicycles is a well-respected brand in the cycling community, there are other brands that offer high-quality road racing bikes.
Some of the most popular brands include:
- Specialized
- Trek
- Cannondale
- Giant
- Pinarello
Each of these brands offers a range of road racing bikes at different price points, so riders can find a bike that fits their budget and needs.
It’s important to do research and test ride different bikes before making a purchase to ensure that you find the right one for you.
Keep Reading
More Bike Reviews
The Verdict
Pros and Cons of the FR Advanced Ultegra Di2
The FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 is built for racing, and most of its strengths and weak points come from that focus.
Felt FR Advanced Ultegra Di2
Pros of the FR Advanced Ultegra Di2
- Stiff Carbon Frame: UHC Advanced and TeXtreme carbon give excellent power transfer and sharp handling.
- Electronic Shifting: Shimano Ultegra Di2 shifts quickly and precisely, even under load.
- Disc Brakes: Hydraulic discs give strong, controlled stopping in the wet and on long descents.
- Race-Ready Wheels: Reynolds AR41 carbon wheels are light, aero and tubeless-ready.
Cons of the FR Advanced Ultegra Di2
- Price: It costs a lot more than mechanical 105 bikes like the FR Advanced 105.
- Racy Fit: The performance geometry can feel aggressive for casual or new riders.
- Charging: The Di2 battery needs charging, and electronic parts cost more to replace.
- Tire Clearance: Room for 28mm tires limits it on gravel and very rough roads.
FeltCheck Price
Gear For Your Road Bike
A few basics keep a road bike fast and flat-free. These are tires and tools we would put on our own bikes.
Road tire
Continental Grand Prix 5000
A fast road tire with a tough, grippy compound and good puncture protection – a favourite for riders who want more miles from every tire.
View on AmazonFloor pump
Topeak JoeBlow Sport III
Correct pressure is the easiest way to prevent pinch flats and uneven wear. 160 psi, a large gauge and a head for Presta and Schrader valves.
View on AmazonPressure gauge
Topeak SmartGauge D2
A digital gauge for precise pressure checks before every ride – properly inflated tires last longer.
View on AmazonTire levers
Park Tool TL-1.2 Tire Levers
Small, strong levers for swapping tires and fixing flats without scratching your rims.
View on AmazonMulti-tool
Crankbrothers M19 Multi-Tool
19 functions in one compact tool – hex and Torx keys, screwdrivers and a chain tool for roadside and trailside fixes.
View on AmazonBike lock
Kryptonite Evolution Mini-7
A compact hardened-steel U-lock with a cable for your wheels – easy to carry on rides to the shop or café.
View on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, The Bike Magazine earns from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are shown on Amazon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to the questions riders ask most about the Felt FR Advanced Ultegra Di2.
How much does the FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 weigh?
Felt lists the bike at 7.54 kg (16.59 lb), which is light for a disc-brake road bike with electronic shifting.
What is the difference between the FR Advanced and the FR FRD Ultimate?
The FR FRD Ultimate uses Felt’s stiffer UHC Ultimate carbon and Shimano Dura-Ace Di2, so it is lighter and more expensive. The FR Advanced uses UHC Advanced carbon and Ultegra Di2.
What tire size fits the FR Advanced Ultegra Di2?
The frame has clearance for tires up to 28mm wide, which suits fast road riding and racing.
Is the FR Advanced Ultegra Di2 good for beginners?
It can work for a new rider who wants to race, but the aggressive fit and high price make an endurance bike or the FR Advanced 105 a better first choice for most beginners.
