E-119 Tri+ Disc Shimano Ultegra Di2

The Argon 18 E-119 Tri+ Disc is a flagship triathlon platform engineered for long-course racing and maximum aerodynamic efficiency. Introduced as a major redesign, this generation moves the platform to fully integrated disc brakes, concealing the calipers and hydraulic reservoirs within the frame and fork to eliminate aerodynamic drag. Beyond the braking system, the frame emphasizes deep system integration, featuring a bottom bracket-mounted toolkit and an enlarged top tube bento box to keep essential gear out of the wind. Designed for dedicated triathletes, the chassis prioritizes straight-line speed and self-sufficiency over raw weight savings. The frame accommodates modern, wider tires and utilizes slightly longer chainstays and a revised bottom bracket drop compared to its rim-brake predecessor, creating a stable foundation for extended periods in the aero tuck.

$10,199
Argon 18 E-119 Tri+ Disc Shimano Ultegra Di2
Build
Size

Inventory

Stack505mm
Reach401mm
Top tube518mm
Headtube length86mm
Standover height780mm
Seat tube length517mm

Fit and geometry

The fit and handling characteristics are heavily defined by a centralized weight distribution and a highly adjustable cockpit developed in collaboration with 51 Speedshop. Compared to older time trial designs, the geometry utilizes a slightly shorter top tube and wheelbase, which keeps the rider's mass centered and contributes to the bike's agile steering response. The chainstays and bottom bracket drop provide a stable, predictable foundation when crosswinds hit the deep frame tubes.

At the front end, the bayonet fork integrates seamlessly with a versatile base bar that can be flipped to achieve either an aggressive drop or a more upright, comfortable position for climbing and descending. The extension system allows for precise, steepless tilt adjustments using standard tools, making it straightforward for riders to dial in a sustainable aero posture without relying on complex proprietary hardware. This focus on ergonomic flexibility ensures the rider can maintain a streamlined tuck over long distances while minimizing lower back fatigue.

Full specs

Frameset

Frame

E119

Fork

E-119 Tri+ Disc specific

Groupset

Shift levers

Shimano SW-R9150 Sprint/Bar Shifters

Front derailleur

Shimano Ultegra Di2 R8150

Rear derailleur

Shimano Ultegra Di2 R8150

Cassette

Shimano Ultegra CS-R8100 11-30

Chain

Shimano Ultegra CN-M8100

Crankset

Shimano Ultegra FC-R8100 52/36

Bottom bracket

CeramicSpeed BB86 Shimano Coated

Front brake

Argon 18 Integrated Brake System

Rear brake

Argon 18 Integrated Brake System

Front rotor

TRP TR140-25 / 140mm

Rear rotor

TRP TR140-25 / 140mm

Wheelset

Front wheel

Scope R8.T

Rear wheel

Scope R8.T

Front tire

Continental GP5000 TT TR 28c

Rear tire

Continental GP5000 TT TR 28c

Cockpit

Stem

Argon 18 Integrated Cockpit

Handlebars

Argon 18 Integrated Cockpit

Saddle

ISM PN3.1

Seatpost

E-119T+ Disc (included with frameset)

Grips

Ciclovation LEATHER TOUCH Tornado Gloss (custom)

Builds

The E-119 Tri+ Disc occupies the premium tier of the triathlon market, with complete builds ranging from roughly $10,000 to $15,000. The lineup is exclusively configured with electronic 12-speed groupsets, splitting evenly between SRAM AXS and Shimano Di2 options. Every model utilizes the same carbon frame, bayonet fork, and proprietary integrated braking system, meaning the aerodynamic baseline remains identical regardless of the price point.

The flagship SRAM Red AXS and Force AXS Classified Powershift builds represent the top of the ladder, featuring integrated power meters and CeramicSpeed coated bottom brackets straight from the factory. These top-tier models roll on deep-section carbon wheels from Scope or Parcours, paired with fast-rolling Continental Grand Prix 5000 TT tires. The Shimano Dura-Ace and Ultegra Di2 builds omit the power meters and use standard Shimano-compatible CeramicSpeed bottom brackets, but maintain the same high-end Scope wheelsets and integrated 51 Speedshop cockpit components. While the entry price is undeniably steep, the inclusion of premium race-day wheels and integrated storage across the board means riders do not need to purchase expensive aftermarket upgrades to make the bike race-ready.

Reviews

Reviewers consistently praise the E-119 Tri+ Disc for its surprisingly road-like handling, noting that it avoids the sluggish steering often associated with deep-section aero bikes. On flat and rolling terrain, testers highlight the "nimble cornering, excellent power transfer and responsive feel" (Triathlonmagazine) that makes the bike easy to accelerate out of turns. The hidden disc brakes are a major focal point, delivering strong, consistent stopping power that provides "peace of mind" (YouTube) on technical descents without compromising the frame's aerodynamic profile.

However, the bike's substantial mass is a frequent point of critique. When fully loaded with hydration and race-day storage, the chassis can feel "bloody heavy" (YouTube), which noticeably blunts its climbing performance on steep gradients. One long-term tester remarked that on hilly courses, the weight penalty can make the handling feel akin to "driving a canal boat" (YouTube).

Despite the weight, the tactile touchpoints receive high marks. The proprietary silicone grips on the base bar and extensions are widely celebrated for keeping hands secure over rough pavement. While testers appreciate the integrated bottom bracket toolkit and top tube storage, some note that the frame's massive tube profiles could have been utilized for internal hydration, and a few plastic storage covers feel cheap compared to the rest of the premium carbon construction.