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I decided to keep the size medium frame.
The Argon 18 E-118 Tri+ was designed exclusively for wires and hoses, not cables. Buttons and a battery it's going to be.
Let's be honest, anything SRAM was really never going to make my component short list. I know that stuff is featured on a number of pro bikes...
It won't be on mine.
All my bikes are Shimano; easy decision made.
There is only one option for a hydraulic TT brake lever from Shimano. As a stand-alone part, they are exceptionally rare. I sourced a new pair off eBay out of mainland China.
With new brake levers secured, I was free to shop for any Di2 groupset. My options being:
• 11-speed, Dura-ace 9100 (used),
• 12-speed, 105 Di2 7100 (new),
• 12-speed, Ultegra 8100 (new)
Surely I'd be able to find a good example of an 11-speed groupset on the used market. Repurposing the 165mm crankset from my current TT bike would save a bit more money.
Unfortunately, it's slim pickings for used parts.
I took a very long look at the new Shimano 105 component group next. This year is the 105th anniversary of the Giro d'Italia after all.
105's biggest detractor for me was Shimano's decision to electronically lock out the 11-30, 11-28 cassettes options. Also, the crankset size I want is currently unavailable at the 105 level.
So, new 12-speed Ultegra for the win!
The remaining parts were purchased from a bike shop in Vancouver, Enroute Cycling.
They were awesome to deal with, they had everything I needed in stock and their pricing was competitive.