trek madone 600 series oclv carbon

Trek bikes range: which model is right for you?

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The humble beginning of Trek bicycles took place in the "red barn" - once a carpet warehouse - in Waterloo, USA. The first bikes were steel touring frames , but within three years the brand had expanded substantially.

Eventually outgrowing the barn, Trek moved into a much larger headquarters - still in Waterloo - in the year 1980. From there it began to manufacture road racing bikes, then in 1983 created its first mountain bike before moving into accessories come 1984.

Having started out in steel, Trek moved into developing aluminium bikes in 1985. The first Trek branded full carbon frame came in 1989 - the Trek 5000 had a frame weight of 1.5kg. It was built by an outside manufacturer and discontinued after a year. Trek made its own efforts at carbon, with an in-house production, in 1992 to much greater success.

>>> Trek mountain bikes: which model is right for you?

Now, Trek offers the Madone (aero bike), Domane (endurance bike), Emonda (lightweight race bike) and Checkpoint (gravel bike) as well as the Boone cyclocross and Speed Concept time trial machine.

Trek's OCLV Carbon

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

Trek's carbon bikes have always used their own patented 'OCLV carbon' - this stands for Optimum Compaction Low Void. It believes this carbon creates the best compromise between low weight and high strength and stiffness.

Optimum Compaction refers to the way sheets of carbon are layered into the mould, and optimised via heat and pressure - in Trek's opinion the two treatments are administered to the perfect ratio. Low Void refers to the minimisation of space between the layers of carbon, which might otherwise reduce strength and durability.

In 1995, Trek opened an independent facility inWhitewater, Wisconsin. The idea being that the Waterloo factory would work in frame development only. For those who want to customise their ride, the'Project One' custom paint programme arrived in 2001.

Trek's pro cycling support

Trek supported now disgraced American cyclist, Lance Armstrong, through his peak years. In 1997, it helped him sign with their sponsored team, US Postal Service Pro Cycling. He won his seven editions of the Tour de Frances on bikes bearing the brand name, but all of said wins were later taken from him following doping violations.

In 2014, the brand sponsored the Trek Factory Racing Team, now calledTrek–Segafredo. In that role, it provided bikes for high profile winners such as Fabian Cancellara and Alberto Contador,as well as Jens Voigt, and notably his Hour Record in September 2014.

In 2020, Trek continued to support the Trek-Segafredo men's and women's race outfits, two highly successful teams.

Trek's acquisitions

Over the years, Trek has made a number of high profile acquisitions. The most famous, perhaps, Gary Fisher bicycles - the mountain bike brand which it took over in 1993.

Later came Bontrager Cycles in 1995 and Electra Bicycle Company in 2014. Bontrager, now Trek's component and apparel brand, maintains the same name as does Electra, the creator of leisure bikes and accessories.

Useful links for road bike shoppers…

Trek's road bike models

Trek is able to offer a wide range of different bikes, each tuned to a slightly different purpose. Some model families are available in a selection of standards (SLR premium carbon, SL carbon, ALR premium aluminium and AL aluminium), and then these come with assorted levels of componentry to suit your price bracket.

To add even more depth to the range, Trek offers many models in two different 'fits'. The Madone and Émonda come as standard in an H2 (traditional) fit, but there are versions in what it calls 'H1' fit. This is more aggressive, shaving off about 30mm on the head tube to create a longer, lower ride. The Domane comes in an H2 'Endurance' fit, with a few models in 'Pro Endurance', again with a longer and lower stance on offer.

Here's a look at the key model families...

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Trek Domane

Our expert review:

Reasons to buy

Reasons to avoid.

The Trek Domane was introduced in 2012. It was created to offer a comfortable ride, the key feature being an IsoSpeed decoupler which separated the seat tube from the top tube, thus reducing vibrations and fatigue.

In 2016 it gained theFront IsoSpeed, which helps to reduce vibrations at the front end without impacting handling. This came alongside a new slider, which alters the level of dampening offered by the rear.

In its most recent update , the Domane took notes from the Madone with an aero fork profile, whilst becoming more versatile thanks to clearance for 38mm tyres (without mudguards, 35mm with). It also gained a downtube compartment for stashing tools (or snacks!).

Though comfort is important to the Trek Domane, it's still a racing frame, and its prowess has been demonstrated by UCI WorldTour riders at major one-day Classics, such as Strade Bianche and the Tour of Flanders. The top Domane bikes come with an H1.5 fit, which was developed with the Trek-Segafredo teams to offer the optimal balance between aerodynamics and endurance.

The Trek Domane - available as a men's build or with women's specific componentry - is a fast selling model, which comes in a range of frame materials.

The Domane SLR uses the lightest carbon Trek offers, the SL is one step down, whilst the AL uses aluminium and is the cheapest of the range.

Trek Madone

The Trek Madone is quite another beast, and the bikes come built for men and women; the latter's models with women's saddles and narrower handlebars . With an aggressive geometry and stiffness to boot, it's a road race hero, and aerodynamics have become part of its lifeblood. When we tested five aero bikes , head to head, the Trek Madone came out fastest.

Modern Trek Madone's feature a high level of integration, with the cables tucked away yet reachable via an access point at the top of the down tube.Wind tunnel testing has helped Trek to create theirKVF (Kammtail Virtual Foil) tube shapes, used on the frame and fork. These unconventional tube shapes are designed to further reduce drag, helping the rider/bike unit to slice through the air efficiently.

Because being bumped around doesn't make you faster, the Madone also features an IsoSpeed decoupler at the seat tube and more recently an adjustable one at the head tube, which offers greater compliance whilst still being integrated to prevent adding drag.

The newest model, according to Trek, can offer 17 per cent more compliance through to 21 per cent more stiffness, depending upon your chosen setting. A damper at the seatpost is also said to cut rebound by 13 per cent. All of these stats add up to a bike that can be comfortable and stiff at the same time - and one that earned a place in our 2018 Editor's Choice awards.

The majority of the bikes come in a more relaxed 'H2' geometry, save for the Madone SLR, which is in an 'H1.5' fit - this is designed to allow riders to achieve an H1 fit or an H2, depending upon their set up.

Trek Émonda

Adding more depth to the Trek family is the Trek Émonda, launched in 2014. Designed to be a climbing bike, newer adaptations are capable of negotiating mixed terrains - with disc brakes available and tyre clearance to 28mm.

>>> Trek Émonda range explained

Trek continues to work on developing the Émonda, dropping the weight of the top end Trek Émonda SLR to 640g in a size 56cm (665g with discs) and 1091g for the Trek Émonda SL (1149g with discs). The weight difference is largely achieved by the use of700 Series OCLV carbon on the SLR, as opposed to 500 series on the SL.

The aluminium model has seen some major work and the result earned it a place in the Editor's Choice 2019 awards. The key characteristic we loved was the way it simply didn't look, or ride, like aluminium. A lot of this is down to Trek's 'Invisible Weld Technology' which increases the surface area of the frame, adding to strength and reducing weight. The ALR model's frame weight comes in at a competitive 1112g, or 1131g with discs, and it uses the brand's 300 Series Alpha Aluminium.

The carbon models are available in 'SLR' build or 'SL', the former being the lightest and the latter more affordable. The majority of Trek Émonda bikes cone in an 'H2' fit, but they can be purchased in an 'H1' geometry, if you choose the top end 'Race Shop' version.

There are a few nods to neatness and integration around, such as the use of 'Blendr Integration' which seamlessly mounts Bontrager’s cycling computer, Ionbike lights or even Garmin computers directly to the handlebars. On SLR versions there's ‘Control Freak Cable Management’ which allows for shifter and brake cables to be housed through the frame.

Trek Checkpoint

With gravel and adventure bikes a fast growing category, the Checkpoint is Trek's offering to fill that sector. The crucial element here is that both the SL and ALR frame options come fitted out with 35c gravel tyres, and can accommodate rubber up to 45c. They've all got internal cable routing, to ensure much stays out, whilst the higher end models use 'Control Freak' routing which is neater.

>>> Best gravel bikes: the top models reviewed

If you opt for the carbon SL model, you get vibration dampening from an IsoSpeed decoupler at the rear, too.  To provide stability and confidence on light trails as well as comfort on all-day adventures, the geometry is not as aggressive as the road bikes elsewhere in the range. Such all-day rides warrant plenty of kit, so there's mounts for racks and mounts. Similar to elsewhere in the range, there's AL, ALR and SL models.

Trek Speed Concept

Trek's Speed Concept time trial bike has been raced by the pros yet is still seen on the amateur race scene as a popular option.

>>> Check out Fabian Cancellara's 2016 Speed Concept

The frames use 500 Series OCLV Carbon, boasting the KVF (Kammtail Virtual Foil) tube shapes described in the Madone, plus a carbon fork with integrated brake and stem - the key goal being cutting through the air quickly.There's space to fit Trek's SC Draft Box and SC Sped Box, largely used by triathletes carrying snacks.

Trek Boone 5

Trek's got plenty of experience in the muddy realm of off-road cycling - and they've got a selection of cyclocross bikes. The Trek Boone 7 model comes with hydraulic disc brakes, a one-by crank and 12-speed cassette and they've all got Bontrager's own 33c cyclocross tyres.

The frame material is Trek's 600 series OCLV carbon, and there's front and rear IsoSpeed decouplers to help riders negotiate the mud without excess transfer of vibration. Combining the mud ready tyres, disc brakes, 'cross focused cable routing and geo into an aluminium package is the Trek Crockett family.

They key differentiation is the frame material, which is300 Series Alpha Aluminium, and there's no decoupler. However, it's still a performance bike that's ready to race.

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Michelle Arthurs-Brennan the Editor of Cycling Weekly website. An NCTJ qualified traditional journalist by trade, Michelle began her career working for local newspapers. She's worked within the cycling industry since 2012, and joined the Cycling Weekly team in 2017, having previously been Editor at Total Women's Cycling. Prior to welcoming her daughter in 2022, Michelle raced on the road, track, and in time trials, and still rides as much as she can - albeit a fair proportion indoors, for now.

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• Rider Notes

2018 Trek Madone 9.0

A carbon frame aero bike with high-end components and rim brakes. Compare the full range

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2018 Madone 9 - 56cm

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Dec 2019 · Symon Lewis

Cycling Weekly has shown that the Trek Madone is one of the fastest aero bikes available today, but has the update with discs made it even better? I certainly think so

Ride quality

Performance

Read Review

Jun 2019 · David Arthur @davearthur

Seriously fast aero race bike with great handling, but not the smoothest and not the ultimate spec it should be

Jul 2018 · Dan Cavallari

Trek has fine-tuned its IsoSpeed Decoupler, improved the fit, and added disc brakes, making this edition of the Madone even better.

It might look the same on the outside, but underneath it's an all new Madone

Jul 2018 · Philippe Tremblay

New aero road bike gets features for increased comfort, customization and aerodynamics

Feb 2018 · Peter Stuart

The Trek Madone 9 is a rather special aerodynamic redesign of the flagship Project One bike.

Feb 2018 · James Huang

The Madone is the oldest model name in the current Trek road lineup, with the first dating back to 2003. That nameplate has worn several hats in that time, but it’s always represented the best that road bike Trek had to offer. The latest generation is no different, offering cutting-edge aerodynamics, an incredible level of […]

Dec 2017 · Ben Delaney

An exceptionally smooth and fast aero bike, but with a relatively tall front end, toe overlap and limited saddle-height adjustment. Buy if you want a comfortable aero bike with an adjustable handlebar

Tangibly fast and blatantly comfortable, very good braking for aero calipers, well-thought-out integration

Steep price, tight fit parameters, toe overlap

Last updated February 15 Not listed for 2,235 days

TriTech for the Masses

2016 Trek Madone – First Look

You can have an aero bike or you can have a comfortable bike – you can’t have both. This has long been one of the accepted realities of the aero road bike category. Sure they’re fast, but staying in the saddle for 5+ may not be the most comfortable experience. Trek has heard this one too many times and decided that this would be the challenge the new Madone was built to meet. Trek set out to build a bike with unparalleled aerodynamics and unmatched ride quality, and the 2016 Madone is the result of that effort.

The 2016 Trek Madone

The first thing you notice when you see the 2016 Madone is the cable-free front end of the bike. Starting at the top, you’ll find the integrated aero bar and stem. This is the result of Trek’s goal to leave “no stone unturned, no cable in the wind.” The integrated bar uses Kamm Virtual Foil (KVF) tube shaping, which was first introduced on the Speed Concept to improve the aerodynamics over a separate system. Keeping the housing fully internal through the head tube required the design of an integrated top cap cover and spacers. The headset spacers use a two-piece clamshell design for easy adjustability, allowing addition or removal without rerouting any housing or cables.

The fork uses aerodynamic KVF legs, cheating the wind at all yaw angles while maintaining stiffness. The fork crown is pocketed out for smooth integration with the front brake, and the fork uses a proprietary steerer tube shape to allow internal routing of the housing through the top headset bearing.

The brakes have been designed to seamlessly match the fork and seatstay surfaces, integrating with the recessed areas and allowing air to flow smoothly over the entire surface. The housing of the front center-pull brake is routed down the front of the steerer tube through the head tube and to the brake, all fully internal. The brake arms use independent spring tension adjustment screws to center the brake pads and adjust lever pull force to the desired feel. Additionally, two spacing screws allow for precise pad adjustments as brake pads wear. The spacing screws’ range allows swapping between rims with up to 6mm difference in width without adjusting the center wedge.

Madone’s Vector Wings protect the front brake from the elements to ensure consistent braking function. To accommodate the function of the center-pull brakes, the Vector Wings articulate during turning in order to allow free rotation.

On the downtube is the Madone’s “Control Center.” On mechanical set-ups, the Control Center houses the front derailleur trim dial. For electronic set-ups, the Control Center houses the Di2 battery port and junction box in one location, providing access to the trim button through the window in the top of the Control Center.

Below the control center are the water bottle bosses. The locations have been optimized so that the front bottle offsets drag for the rear bottle.

The Madone features an integrated chain keeper that has also been aero optimized (talk about “sparing no expense”).

All of the above features aid in the goal to achieve unparalleled aerodynamics. While the Madone doesn’t beat its competition at every yaw angle, it does come close.

But what about the goal of unmatched ride quality? That job falls to the Madone IsoSpeed Decoupler. First shown on the Trek Domane, the IsoSpeed Decoupler separates the seat mast from the toptube and allows the seat tube to rotate independently from the top-tube-to-seatstay junction, increasing vertical compliance without compromising pedaling efficiency.

Using the IsoSpeed system freed up the seatpost to use KVF technology, matching the seat tube profile. The seatpost head uses an independent pinch bolt and rail clamp system to allow for infinite tilt and setback adjustment.

Trek Madone Builds

At launch, the Madone will be available in three builds – 9.2, 9.5, and 9.9, plus a special Madone Race Shop Limited build. The 9.2, 9.5, and 9.9 all use Trek’s 600 Series OCLV carbon.

The 9.2 features a Shimano Ultegra mechanical groupset and Bontrager Paradigm Elite tubeless-ready wheels. It will be available for $6,299.

The 9.5 features a Shimano Dura-Ace mechanical groupset and Bontrager Aura tubeless-ready wheels. Upgrading to Dura-Ace sets you back $8,399.

The 9.9 is available in both a men’s and women’s design. Both feature Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 and Bontrager Aeolus 5D3 tubeless-ready wheels. The 9.9 will go for $12,599 at your local bike shop.

Finally, there is the Madone Race Shop Limited build. This is the same bike used by Trek Factory Racing and is built with 700 Series OCLV carbon. Like the 9.9, it features Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 and Bontrager Aeolus 5D3 tubeless-ready wheels. This top-of-the-line build will go for $16,999.

Our Thoughts

We are big fans of Trek as evidenced by the recent addition of a Speed Concept to our test fleet . So it should come as no surprise that we really want to spend some quality time with the new Madone. Our only reservation is that the integrated bars will most likely not be able to accommodate any type of aero bars. However, for most looking to purchase this bike, that probably won’t be a major issue. The price is also obviously a big consideration of ours, but we expect that price to come down next year (something we are routinely seeing with other new bikes). Really our biggest question is whether we work with Trek to do a review now or wait until they can do a Project One build to match our Speed Concept. These are the tough decisions we love to make!

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Trek Madone 9 Series first ride review

Aero speed without the usual compromises.

You can trust Cyclingnews Our experts spend countless hours testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

This article originally appeared on BikeRadar 

2016 Trek Madone - What we know, what we expect

Gallery: Bauke Mollema's Critérium du Dauphiné Trek - a closer look

New Trek Madone 9 Series gets radically aero for 2016

Video: New Trek Madone 9 Series

Aero road bikes might slice through the air with relative ease but as a category, they're not exactly known to be comfortable or light. The new Trek Madone 9 Series should go a long way toward dispelling that reputation with a super sleek and comparatively feathery chassis that's not only fast but freakishly cushy on rough roads, too. We've only logged a few hundred miles on our long-termer so far but initial impressions are extremely favorable.

Click here for further detail on the Trek Madone 9 series

• Highs: Cuts faster through the wind but without beating you up along the way, fantastic handling, still impressively light
• Lows: At least interest rates on second mortgages are still low
• Buy if: You want to get there in less time but still want to be able to ride the next day, too

Fast and smooth

The first two rides on this bike were on the 'dairy roads' surrounding Trek's global headquarters in Waterloo, Wisconsin. It's a seemingly endless expanse of sinuous tarmac that's gloriously free of traffic but also relatively coarsely paved with plenty of frost heave and other imperfections that often seemed perfectly sized to swallow a road tire – not exactly an ideal proving ground for a bike that's anything less than smooth.

Such deep-profile tubes wouldn't normally suggest a smooth ride but the new Madone is remarkably comfy

But alas, the new Madone isn't just comfortable “for an aero road bike” but comfortable, period – no caveats required. Despite appearances to the contrary, the deep-section carbon frame ably damps road buzz but it also rounds off bigger and harsher bumps in a way usually only expected of more traditionally shaped bikes.

It doesn't take long before you how you're seeing all of those bumps but not really feeling them through the rear end – and in fact, I even found myself consciously aiming for stuff I would normally avoid if only just for the novelty. Credit goes entirely to Trek's awesome IsoSpeed 'decoupler' – a mechanical pivot at the seat tube-top tube intersection – and the Madone's clever dual, nested seat tube design that, in combination, allows for much more flex at the saddle than you'd otherwise get out of a more traditional frame.

Trek's excellent IsoSpeed 'decoupler' strikes again, and to great effect

Unlike on Trek's similarly IsoSpeed-equipped Domane endurance platform, which incorporates an even cushier rear end but can sometimes feel somewhat harsh up front, the new Madone delivers up a more balanced and cohesive feel front to rear. It might not be as comfortable out back as a Domane but then again, as a full-blown race bike, it should be firmer and more communicative.

That all said, riders interested in an aero road bike aren't going to be considering ride quality as their primary metric – we're talking about free speed, after all, and this new Madone seems to have that in spades, too. We haven't had a chance to verify Trek's drag claims – specifically ones comparing it to its major competition – but repeated runs on my regular fast-and-flat test loops surrounding BikeRadar's US offices in Boulder, Colorado have certainly returned consistently lower times relative to non-aero machines. As expected for this segment, the chassis is plenty stiff, too.

The front end is fantastically sleek

Helping matters further is the Madone's impeccable handling. A slight variation from Madones of yesteryear – and identical to the current Emonda – this new Madone 9 Series is nevertheless equally adept at carving up sinuous mountain descents or gobbling up long stretches of straight road, feeling utterly composed and competent throughout.

Reigning it in

Boulder isn't exactly known for being flat, however, and the countless canyon roads to the west also demand plenty of braking. Thankfully, the new Madone's proprietary center-pull rim brakes are not only cleanly integrated into the frame and fork for aero purposes but they also work well – a good thing since there are no other options.

The dedicated centerpull brakes work well with generous power and control, plus fantastic lever feel

Caliper flex is practically nonexistent thanks to short and compact aluminum arms and a fully boxed-in layout that bridges the ends of the direct-mount pivots. Meanwhile, the cable wedge moves on rollers while both pivots are fitted with cartridge bearings to return a silky smooth and light lever feel that's noticeably devoid of excess friction.

Total braking power leaves a little to be desired with the Bontrager carbon-specific cork pads included here and they're also prone to squealing but modulation is very good. We'll likely switch to a set of SwissStops as the long-term testing progresses.

A look at the inner workings

Clearance is great, too. Trek officially says the new Madone will swallow tires up to 28mm wide and rims up to 30mm wide (external measurement), depending on the exact combination.

Sweating the details

Another usual pitfall of proprietary componentry is lack of compatibility. In that sense, there's no grand departure here as the Madone's dedicated aero-profile one-piece carbon fiber bar and stem won't work with aftermarket computer or camera mounts, and the similarly aero-profile no-cut extended seatmast won't take anything other than the dedicated Bontrager head.

The aero cockpit is actually quite comfy to hold

But on the upside, Bontrager has at least given the cockpit an agreeable shape with versatile semi-anatomic drops and flattened tops that you can still comfortably wrap your hands around. And while Trek says it's faster to leave the tops untaped, the subtle 'Madone' graphics are sized such that you can still wrap them up as usual without looking funny.

Likewise, there may not be much in the way of seatpost options but at least the one included is easy to live with. Bontrager's updated head design now features truly independent tilt and fore-aft adjustments, and so far, it's held rock solid.

Custom mounts are included for lights, computers, and cameras

And as for accessories, Trek even includes custom mounts for computers, cameras, and lights for the cockpit and seatmast – meaning you can still attach your favorite gadgets but won't have to look at any unsightly clamps or rubber straps.

Such an obsessively hidden internal cable routing setup – it's all fully concealed save for a short section of wire for the rear derailleur – is certainly going to be more challenging to service when the time comes but Trek has at least made bar height adjustments less easy. As compared to other similar setups that require a full recabling, Trek has cleverly fitted the new Madone with custom split headset spacers.

Split headset spacers should make for relatively painful height adjustments

Unflappable build kit

Trek will initially offer the Madone 9 Series in several standard builds but BikeRadar got an early sneak preview at the upcoming Project One custom version – which, in this case, doesn't stray far off the beaten path in terms of components or wheels but definitely goes off-center visually with a very non-standard green-on-green paint scheme.

There's not much that needs to be repeated on the Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 group: it's functionally without fault with perfect shifts each and every time. It'd still be nice to have some more tactile feedback from the shift buttons but that's still a matter of personal preference.

As usual, the Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 transmission is superb

Bontrager's latest Aeolus 5 D3 TLR tubeless-compatible carbon clinchers are proving to be great all-rounders, too, with a newly widened tire bed that mates well with the 25mm-wide Bontrager R4 tires used here. As we've noted before, the blunt, 50mm-deep rim shape is fast yet manageable in strong crosswinds. Their weight is also quite good although as with all tubeless-compatible Bontrager hoops, the chunky molded plastic rim strips add nearly 100g per set.

All told, this 52cm H1 test sample came in at just 6.79kg (14.97lb) without pedals or bottle cages.

Raising the bar

Overall, Trek's new Madone 9 Series is off to a fantastic start to its long-term test: it's fast, remarkably comfortable, and easy to live with. Unfortunately, the prices have climbed in lockstep with the technology but at least Trek will offer several somewhat more reasonable options with identical shaping but lesser build kits.

Not all riders will feel any burning need to go aero but when that extra speed comes with so few compromises, the arguments against it certainly become less compelling. Ever-increasing retail costs? That gets a big 'boo' from this end but the idea that aero road bikes can also just be really good road bikes in general is a trend I can get behind.

Faster, comfier, easier to live with.

Complete bike specifications

Frame: 2016 Trek Madone 9 Series, H1 geometry, 700-Series OCLV carbon fiber Fork: 2016 Trek Madone KVF Headset: Integrated Cockpit: Trek Madone integrated Bar tape: Bontrager gel cork Front brake: Trek Madone integrated w/ Bontrager carbon-specific pads Rear brake: Trek Madone integrated w/ Bontrager carbon-specific pads Brake levers: Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 STI Dual Control ST-9070 Front derailleur: Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 FD-9070 Rear derailleur: Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 RD-9070 Shift levers: Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 STI Dual Control ST-9070 Cassette: Shimano Dura-Ace CS-9000, 11-28T Chain: Shimano Dura-Ace CN-9000 Crankset: Shimano Dura-Ace FC-9000, 50/34T Bottom bracket: Enduro Wheelset: Bontrager Aeolus 5 D3 TLR clincher Front tire: Bontrager R4 clincher, 700x25c Rear tire: Bontrager R4 clincher, 700x25c Saddle: Bontrager Montrose Pro Seatpost: Trek Madone 9 Series Weight: 6.79kg (14.97lb, without pedals or accessories)

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2021 Trek Madone SLR switches to OCLV 800 carbon, saving a claimed 80g

Trek has announced an updated Madone SLR for 2021, the aero race bike getting the OCLV 800 carbon that Trek developed for the recently released Emonda SLR. Trek has also switched the Madone to the T47 threaded bottom bracket standard in a move that also follows the new Emonda SLR. Choose your spec carefully and Trek says that there is a 450g weight saving to be made.

There is also the new integrated Aeolus RSL VR-C bar/stem along with the option of the new Aeolus RSL 37 wheelset, both of which were launched with the new Emonda SLR. The main changes come in the form of a new carbon that was also developed for the 2021 Emonda, along with a welcome return to a threaded bottom bracket.

All-new Émonda gets aero to become "Trek’s fastest climbing bike ever"

We got all the juicy details about Trek’s new OCLV 800 carbon fibre during the Emonda launch. The new carbon layup was specifically designed to get the Emonda SLR frameset under 700g and the weight savings have apparently been passed on to the 2021 Madone with Trek claiming a frameset weight saving of 80g. This all comes, Trek claims, “with no aerodynamic penalty.”

Trek says that “from a fibre-type perspective OCLV 800 is 30% stronger than the material that we've been using in OCLV 700.” 

That is pretty much all we know about OCLV 800. Trek is keeping its cards close, though it does say that the material has been in development for two years.

Interestingly, though, Trek said that the Emonda only used the new carbon “in specific areas of the frame that benefit most from having that quality of improved strength” and where it was able to save weight too. We suspect that this is also the case with the 2021 Madone.

The claimed 450g weight saving isn’t all down to the new carbon. Trek says that this figure is reached when you spec the bike on its Project One custom programme using the new wheels, new bar, the lightest paint and other component choices.

We’re finally getting back to threaded bottom brackets with Trek saying that the system offers “the ultimate in serviceability".

We'd agree and T47, first introduced by Chris King and Argonaut Cycles a few years ago, offers many of the benefits of a pressfit system with the simplicity of a threaded system for the end user.

Firstly, the T47 system screws into the hub shell. This makes installation and replacing the system far easier as there is only one tool involved. To try to keep the performance benefits of a pressfit system, the T47 system sits the bearings as far apart as possible in the hub shell, allowing Trek to design a huge bottom bracket shell for increased stiffness. 

It also gives the bearings a wide stance which, in theory, should decrease bearing wear. At the launch of the Emonda, Trek said that we could expect to see T47 being used more widely on its road range so it’s good to see this become a reality.

Pretty paint

I mentioned Project One above and Trek’s popular custom builder programme continues with three new Icon paint schemes and more parts options. The Icon designs include the Sweet Gold Leaf and other designs that we saw launched with the Emonda. 

There is also the KOM series that allows you full control of the colours while Project One Ultimate gives you even more freedom, allowing you to design your own graphics, pick non-standard colours and spec the bike however you want.

Head over to the Project One site to play . What else are you doing on a Thursday afternoon anyway?

New Wheel Options

The redesigned Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37 wheels are now also available on the Madone with the Team Edition Madone SLR models getting the new wheels as standard.

Mat took a proper look at the new wheels here but the main points are a 37mm deep, 28mm wide carbon rim with a 21mm internal width on a hub featuring DT Swiss 240 internals and the new Ratchet EXP system. They’re tubeless-ready and Trek claims a wheelset weight of just 1,325g, dropping 55g from the previous model. The Aeolus RSL 37 is also, Trek claims, 17% faster than the existing 28mm deep Bontrager Aeolus XXX 2, and nearly matches the 47mm-deep Aeolus XXX 4 for speed.

As-you-were geometry

Trek hasn’t changed the geometry on the new Madone, sticking with the H1.5 fit that they introduced with the last Madone and which has also been adopted by the 2021 Emonda.

Check out David Arthur's review of the 2019 Trek Madone SLR 9 Disc for all the geometry details

Like the look of the Madone? Trek hasn’t given us any specific details of when the bikes will be available in stores. But we do have some prices for you.

The new Madone SLR9 Disc eTap comes in at £11,950 with the SLR6 Disc at a slightly more accessible (it's all relative!) £6,250. The SLR Disc frameset costs £4,210. Here’s a full price list of the standard builds.

• Madone SLR 6 Disc - Ultegra R8020 -  Aeolus Pro 5 - £6,250.00
• Madone SLR 7 Disc  - Ultegra R8750 Di2 -  Aeolus Pro 5 - £7,500.00
• Madone SLR 7 Disc eTap - Force eTap AXS - Aeolus Pro 5 - £8,200.00
• Madone SLR 9 Disc - Dura-Ace R9170 Di2 - Aeolus XXX 6 - £11,350.00
• Madone SLR 9 Disc eTap - Red eTap AXS - Aeolus XXX 6 - £11,950.00
• Madone SLR Disc Frameset - £4,210.00

All Sram equipped bikes come with a Quarq power meter as standard. Thankfully, this is now the case with the Shimano equipped bikes too after the 2019 models missed out. Given the £1,350 price hike on the Dura-Ace R9170 model, the addition of the Shimano power meter chainset is a welcome addition.

trekbikes.com

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Very nice bike. But I find it ridiculous to focus the  marketing talk on the weight savings, and on the other hand to not give a single weight for a complete build. If it was really that light, they would probably give a weight...

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I think the logo should be bigger 👀

Bit bloody cheeky to charge those prices and only put the T47 BB in the SLR range. I wouldn't buy until it's in the SL range at least, I have two Treks with BB90 & they are by far the most frequently replaced component even allowing for some recent workrounds. Otherwise, looks awesome.

All these frame designaters like OCLV 600/700/800 (and Trek aren't the only guilty ones!) mean absolutely nothing without knowing what carbon fibre is used. Is it standard T600/T700/T800 or is it the flash T1100 stuff Pinarello use in the Dogma? For the cash, you'd hope it's T1100 in OCLV 800. 

Given that this 80g saving from using different carbon is headline news, surely it's only fair to also state that moving to a T47 bottom bracket will add all that saved weight back?

It's weight well spent though, BB90 is the worst of the BB standards.

The logo alone would save you 125g of paint. It really should be bigger though, because everyone within a ten mile radius must know what you're riding. 

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Trek Madone Road Bike Review  

  December 27, 2017

By   Max Shumpert

Reviewed by Jeroen De Haas

The Trek Madone SLR 9 is designed with the professional racer in mind, offering both speed and precision when handling.

Its lightweight frame has been engineered with an aerodynamic shape to minimize wind resistance and improve speed. A robust carbon fiber frame with Kammtail Virtual Foil aerodynamic tube shaping makes this bike both sleek and strong.

Trek’s 800 Series OCLV Carbon is made using a patented process that produces a lightweight, almost impossibly strong material that’s also compliant enough to absorb shock from the pavement.

A road-smoothing IsoSpeed decoupler also helps to provide a smoother ride for cyclists. This decoupler allows the bike’s seat tube to rotate independently from the top-tube-to-seatstay junction, reducing stress on the rider’s body. The design also makes pedaling more efficient, letting riders race harder and for longer.

The Trek Madone’s frame comes in an H2 fit , which is engineered to place most riders in the optimal position. This helps to prevent cyclists from losing any power as they pedal. The frame can comfortably seat individuals ranging from 4’11.8” to 6’5.2” and can carry a load up to 275 pounds.

The technologically advanced Shimano Di2 electronic drivetrain or the Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 makes Madone bike models easy to handle . Shifting gears is seamless , even at high speeds, and riders don’t have to worry about accidentally slipping out of gear as they move.

Trek's Madone gives riders a variety of options when it comes time to purchase a bike.

The company produces several different bike models that cater to every lifestyle and budget, including:

• Madone SL 6 : This is the most simplified Madone racing bike model, the SL6 boasts a lightweight frame and high-performance Bontrager Aeolus Comp tires. The Shimano Ultegra 11 speed shifter makes it easier to change gears, even while racing at high speeds.
• Madone SLR 7 : The Madone 7 is slightly more expensive than the SL6 model, but it also comes with a more advanced build that helps riders to reach and maintain incredible speeds . Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3 tires keep the bike grounded without weighing it down.
• Madone 7 Women’s : This bike is designed with women in mind, offering a comfortable ride for the female rider. Its touchpoints are specifically designed for women, and it includes a specially engineered Bontrager Ajna Elite saddle to reduce stress on the hips.
• Madone SLR 9 : The SLR9 is the top-of-the-line Madone model , offering unparalleled speed and comfort for riders. Instead of a Shimano Ultegra shifter, it uses more advanced Shimano Dura-Ace Di2. Bontrager Aeolus 5 D3 tires give the bike a smooth ride without losing traction on the road.

FRAME SIZE : 800 Series OCLV Carbon BRAKE TYPE:  Integrated Madone Aero SHIFTER:  Shimano Dura-Ace Di2, 11 speed or Shimano Ultegra Di2, 11 speed WHEELS:  Bontrager Aeolus 5 D3, Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3 or Bontrager Aeolus Comp TIRES:  Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite, 120 TPI, aramid bead, 700x25c

Things We Like

First off, we love the look of the Trek Madone SLR 9.

Its curved, aerodynamic appearance is highlighted by an elegantly curved frame and sleek wheels . The bike is also fully customizable through Project One.

You can order the Trek Madone in a variety of personalized colors, making your bike easier to spot in a crowd while also making a statement. Models come in a variety of color combinations, including:

• Trek Black/Viper Red
• Radioactive Orange/Trek Black
• Viper Red/Trek White
• Radioactive Yellow/Trek Black
• Matte Quicksilver/Gloss Blue (Madone SLR7 Only)
• Matte Dnister Black/Quicksilver

The Madone women’s model has entirely different color palettes that include both soft pastels and bold metallics.

You can customize the women’s model of the Trek Madone by choosing from four color combinations:

• Radioactive Pink/Trek Black
• Radioactive Purple/Deep Dark Blue
• Matte Metallic Gunmetal/Trek Black
• Matte Dnister Black/Gloss Old Style

The bike comes pre-assembled, so it’s ready to go right out of the box. If the bike comes to you damaged, or if you need help getting it road-ready, you can register it to take advantage of Trek’s lifetime warranty . Under this warranty, free Trek Care will fix and fine-tune your bike free of charge .

The chances are, though, that you won’t need to use Trek Care’s services very often.

The Trek Madone may be lightweight, but we love how durable the frame is. It’s made from 800 Series OCLV carbon, Trek’s strongest carbon fiber to date , which makes the bike nearly indestructible. The frame can withstand harsh weather, rough terrain, and other unfavorable conditions without taking on too much damage.

Perhaps our favorite aspect of the Trek Madone is its smooth ride. The bike’s IsoSpeed Decoupler design helps to make pedaling easier and more efficient by helping to absorb shock from the road.

With so much to brag about, it’s no wonder that the Trek Madone has won top marks and Bike-of-the-Year awards from many of the cycling industry's top media outlets. The bike is also ridden by a number of racing pros.

• Customizable
• Lifetime warranty
• Durable frame
• Smooth ride

Things We Don’t Like

While the Madone frame is sturdy, it can only hold a load of up to 275 pounds.

This is less than some competing models and may be a drawback for heavier riders or for those who wish to transport gear. The frame is liable to break if overloaded.

Our least favorite thing about the Trek Madone has got to be its price.

While the bike is a top-of-the-line piece of equipment, the old adage is true: you pay for quality. The Trek Madone starts at around $4000, with more advanced models costing upwards of $12000.

• Can’t hold much weight

Our Buying Advice

The Trek's new Madone is the ideal bike for racing cyclists , boasting a lightweight, aerodynamic design .

It comes in models for both men and women , offering optimal comfort without sacrificing quality.

More advanced cyclists may want to opt for the more advanced Madone 9.5 or even 9.9 model, as the design of these bikes allows you to achieve even faster speeds on the road. High-performance wheels and a superior drivetrain make these models the perfect choice for the professional racer. 

Recommended - trek emonda review

The Trek Madone provides everything that a cyclist could possibly want in a racing bike, with a carefully crafted design that allows riders to reach incredible speeds without compromising handling.

If you’re looking for a road bike that’s the top of its class, you should look into the Trek Madone and all that this bike model has to offer. You can also check out trek's hybrid bikes. Trek FX1 leads the category on sales, reviews and popularity.

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Trek lays up OCLV 500 carbon fiber to lower the entry point on new Madone SL

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Love the Trek Madone SLR but can’t stomach the price tag? Now there’s hope with the new Madone SL. Built from the very same molds as the SLR, the SL model includes the use of a slightly heavier grade of carbon fiber which adds some weight, but helps lower the price – making Madone tech accessible to more riders than ever.

The Madone SLR frame is a thing of beauty, and the SL is no different. After all, they literally come from the same molds. However, Trek builds the SL with OLCV 500 carbon fiber instead of the OCLV 700 found on the SLR. This is said to add about 100g to the weight of the frame, with a 56cm painted Madone SL frame said to weigh 1225g.

Because the frame is the same, you’ll find Trek-specific features like their Adjustable Top Tube IsoSpeed unit which allows you to fine tune the rear end compliance by moving the integrated slider. It also uses the same proprietary seat mast assembly as the SLR.

Up front, the SL uses the same fork as the SLR, but one huge difference is the use of a standard bar and stem rather than the integrated unit found on the SLR. This is done in part to keep the cost down, but it also makes it easier to better fit more riders, and also allows for the use of clamp on aero bars.

Like the SLR, you’ll find integrated lighting and computer mounts through the use of the Bontrager Blendr system.

Elsewhere, the frame uses the same specifications as the SLR with flat mount disc brakes, 12mm thru axles front and rear, internal cable routing, Duo Trap S compatibility, BB90 bottom bracket, and clearance for 28mm tires. Calling it their H1.5 fit, the bike is built with a performance geometry and KVF aero tube profile to be every bit as racy as the higher end versions.

Two different builds will be offered with the SL 7 running Shimano Ultegra Di2 with Bontrager Aeolus Pro 5 carbon wheels, and the SL 6 which runs Shimano Ultegra mechanical with hydraulic brakes and Bontrager Aeolus Comp 5 carbon wheels. While the Madone SL 7 is close to the price of the Madone SLR 6, you’ll find the SL gets you a Di2 drivetrain, while the lighter SLR frame is equipped with mechanical. There’s also a frameset available if you want to build it yourself.

All models are in stock and available now.

• Madone SL 6 Disc $4,699.99
• Madone SL 7 Disc $6,499.99
• Madone SL Disc F/S $3,499.99

trekbikes.com

Zach Overholt is the Editor in Chief of Bikerumor . He has been writing about what’s new in the bicycle world for 12+ years. Prior to that, Zach spent many years in the back of a bicycle shop building and repairing nearly every type of bike, while figuring out how to (occasionally) ride them.

Based in Ohio, Zach is now slowly introducing a new generation to cycling and still trying to figure out how to fit the most rides into a busy schedule as a new dad.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

I will never buy a Trek with a BB90 bottom bracket.

Rumors of T47 BB standard coming to Trek OCLV carbon can’t come true fast enough?

Needs BSA. At least Specialized is going back to basics with their new Roubaix line.

YMMV, but I’ve got a Trek with BB90 and have never had a moment’s problem with it in 4 years.

4 years isn’t very long and it’s really mileage and your power that matters for causing the inevitable unless you have a one piece BB like a BBinfinite setup

Looks a bit weird with that seatpost with half a mile of setback.

Really? I’m considering selling a kidney to buy one! 😛

Would agree friend of mine has an RSL edition with rim brakes and I was just thinking how much better his frame looks than the disc brake one.

It’s not a bike it’s a ugly Trek billboard! The designers are tasked with fitting the biggest trek logo on it while allowing the thing to be semi rideable.

You’re right… what’s up with the size of the TREK logo? I used to think the Madone was so sleek and beautiful, but somehow it’s gotten really ugly.

Yeah, the black on black “ghost” logo is textbook complimentary color strategy for maximum contrast…

Veru odd looking bike especially that seat/setback but I’m really liking the integration with lights.

I do wonder if that bike will say “Made in USA” on it (like so many other Treks that were at best assembled in the USA). At least the big S was honest-ish with “Designed in California” (that to me is a reason to not buy one).

I do prefer made in USA frames (with made in Italy bits)…that said, I do prefer to meet the person who builds my frame in person as well.

I think Trek already moved all production back to Asia.

Trek never did that. They’re all made in Asia(even when this post was made), but they used to make their 6 series and up frames in the US while the 4/5s were made in Asia. The frames stated where they were made.

I’ll take my Fuji Transonic 2.1 over that bike anyway. It’s a rocket ship and is $1K less than the Ui2 version Trek is offering. And they didn’t dummy down the carbon to hit a price point.

Nothing about this bike or the SLR appeals to me in the slightest.

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Need to Identify a Trek OCLV Carbon Road Bike

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Trek has a great site for this 2007 Bike Archive - Trek Bicycle I'm guessing it's in the 2005-2008 range based on shapes and gears, but you will have to dig more to figure out exactly which one. Happy hunting!  

JapanCycles8 said: Trek has a great site for this 2007 Bike Archive - Trek Bicycle I'm guessing it's in the 2005-2008 range based on shapes and gears, but you will have to dig more to figure out exactly which one. Happy hunting! Click to expand...

I have a 2013 model and says same thing on frame something they were playing with around that time Ultegra components look around same time period I hope this helps you  

It's a 2003 or 2004 5200. In 2005 they went to the 'Madone' name and got rid of the wishbone seatstay. Yours is made with OCLV120 carbon. I checked some of the model year links from the archive link and was surprised that the paired spoke wheels went on for a few more years. Lots of people had issues with those wheels, but I never did with probably 25k miles on those wheels. The galvanizing/corrosion between the dropouts and the carbon fiber show some of the bike's age, but that's no worry, that's a fine bike to ride.  

2007 Madone SL 5.2 - Bike Archive - Trek Bicycle

Guess I thought you were saying that this was 9-speed?  

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Trek 2012 500 Series OCLV Carbon vs. 2011 TCT Carbon?

Moderator: robbosmans

Post by james2550 » Sat Aug 20, 2011 6:33 pm --> by james2550 on Sat Aug 20, 2011 6:33 pm

by » Sat Aug 20, 2011 6:33 pm --> by Weenie on Sat Aug 20, 2011 6:33 pm

Post by daj » Sat Aug 20, 2011 7:08 pm --> by daj on Sat Aug 20, 2011 7:08 pm

Post by cnbky » Sat Aug 20, 2011 7:08 pm --> by cnbky on Sat Aug 20, 2011 7:08 pm

Post by 5Nm » Sun Aug 21, 2011 3:54 pm --> by 5Nm on Sun Aug 21, 2011 3:54 pm

Post by james2550 » Sun Aug 21, 2011 6:57 pm --> by james2550 on Sun Aug 21, 2011 6:57 pm

Post by yeaitsdave » Mon Aug 22, 2011 3:21 am --> by yeaitsdave on Mon Aug 22, 2011 3:21 am

Post by Boomer » Sat Aug 27, 2011 4:53 pm --> by Boomer on Sat Aug 27, 2011 4:53 pm

Post by Mutt » Sat Aug 27, 2011 9:28 pm --> by Mutt on Sat Aug 27, 2011 9:28 pm

Post by Boomer » Sun Aug 28, 2011 1:58 pm --> by Boomer on Sun Aug 28, 2011 1:58 pm

Post by Mutt » Sun Aug 28, 2011 5:19 pm --> by Mutt on Sun Aug 28, 2011 5:19 pm

Post by 2002SaecoReplica » Mon Aug 29, 2011 6:28 am --> by 2002SaecoReplica on Mon Aug 29, 2011 6:28 am

Boomer wrote: I was just refuting the ridiculous claim that T700 is only available in NATO countries.

Post by 2002SaecoReplica » Mon Aug 29, 2011 6:36 am --> by 2002SaecoReplica on Mon Aug 29, 2011 6:36 am

Boomer wrote: OCLV is just a marketing name for what every builder of anything carbon tries to do: have no voids in the cured layup. They do the damn same thing for TCT, which is itself another marketing name. As as for 700 series carbon, it is not "the king of the hill" just because some military contractors use it. There are a number different types of carbon, and each have there strengths and weaknesses, e.g. carbon A may be stronger than carbon B, but not as stiff. About 700 being available on in NATO countries, Google "T700 carbon China".

Post by ciba888 » Fri Sep 02, 2011 1:49 pm --> by ciba888 on Fri Sep 02, 2011 1:49 pm

Post by geraldatwork » Fri Sep 02, 2011 7:25 pm --> by geraldatwork on Fri Sep 02, 2011 7:25 pm

by » Fri Sep 02, 2011 7:25 pm --> by Weenie on Fri Sep 02, 2011 7:25 pm

Post by lancearmstrong » Sat Sep 03, 2011 6:25 pm --> by lancearmstrong on Sat Sep 03, 2011 6:25 pm

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Which generation is right for you? 

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Product features

Unprecedented aerodynamics.

All-new aerodynamic Kammtail frame shapes, bar/stem design, and rider position make Madone SLR our fastest road race bike yet.

Exclusive IsoFlow technology

Never before seen IsoFlow technology specifically designed for the 7th generation Madone SLR shaves weight, improves aerodynamics, and smooths your ride.

Our lightest Madone disc ever

Super lightweight 800 Series OCLV Carbon and a new lightweight design make this our lightest Madone disc ever.

New ergonomic bar/stem

A newly optimized bar/stem that’s 3cm narrower in the hoods than the drops offers a more comfortable and ergonomic riding position for faster racing, improved aerodynamics, and ultimate control. Use the same bar/stem size you’re used to – if you normally ride with a 42cm bar/stem, opt for 42cm in the drops and 39cm in the hoods.

Refined integration

Every element of this bike is part of a greater whole. It has invisible cable routing, aero cockpit, hidden seatmast, and more.

Integrated power meter

This bike helps you get the most out of every ride with a SRAM power meter that measures your input and provides accurate data, allowing you to track your progress and tailor your training to crush your goals.

Don’t forget your pedals

This bike doesn’t come with pedals because you’ll have a better time on your new bike if you choose your own. See the pedal guide to find the best pedals for your riding style. We recommend clipless road pedals for control and efficiency.

Invisible cable routing

The brake and shift cables of the most aerodynamic bike are routed through the frame for the ultimate in sleek, aerodynamic performance.

Carbon Care Wheel Loyalty Program

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H1.5 geometry, developed with Trek-Segafredo pro cycling teams, puts the rider in the optimal aero race position. It’s the sweet spot for what our racers want.

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Carbon wheels can lighten your ride and improve your performance—and when you ride Bontrager, your investment is protected. All Bontrager carbon wheels are backed by a lifetime warranty for the original owner.

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How we created 800 Series OCLV Carbon Necessity is the mother of invention. Like a lot of other big tech developments, 800 Series OCLV Carbon was created to solve a problem—we wanted to make our aero bikes lighter. Aero tube shapes take more material to make, so they are generally heavier than typical tubes. A new, lighter carbon layup would ensure the added weight of aero tubes wouldn’t offset gains in speed.

A game-changing new fiber

800 Series OCLV Carbon contains fibers that are 30% stronger than previous carbon fibers we’ve used, while retaining the same amount of stiffness. That means that we can use less of it than a different type of carbon, and still get the same effect. This is huge—it allows us to make aero shapes without adding a ton of weight.

A dialed process

There are lots of carbon bikes out there, but not all carbon bikes are created equal. Carbon fiber is an incredible yet complicated material to build things from. To do so successfully takes a lot of expertise—something we’ve been cultivating for over 25 years through our OCLV Carbon process. We’ve learned that the real magic comes in knowing what types of fibers to use, and where to use them. It’s a process our engineers compare to tuning a piano. It’s not just about materials the piano’s made from or having the loudest piano. It’s about creating something that’s more than the sum of its parts—a beautiful sound. Getting a piano to sound stunning (or building a bike that’s a joy to ride) is both a science and an artform.

It’s all about the layup

800 Series OCLV Carbon consists of several different high-end carbon fibers, and the quality of a frame comes from getting the right fibers in the right place. This layup is the secret sauce—it's what creates the perfect harmony of stiffness, strength, light weight, and performance.

Testing 1, 2, 3, 4, 5…

With the help of advanced computer modeling, we developed over 50 layups to find the new 800 Series OCLV. Each prototype had different kinds of carbon placed in different areas depending on the stressors occurring at each part of the frame, and on the qualities we wanted the new frame to have. We meticulously tested and quantified each laminate’s structural integrity, weight, and ride quality, which was crucial in helping us determine exactly why we liked the performance of one laminate over another. Once we narrowed it down to just a few layups, we had Lidl-Trek racers test ride the bikes and tell us which frame they liked the best.

Our best carbon ever

It took more than two years of development, but 800 Series OCLV is the lightest and highest-performing carbon layup we’ve ever created. It’s stronger than our previous laminates, yet just as stiff. The advent of 800 Series OCLV marks the start of a new era for our highest-end aero bikes—never again will we have to sacrifice weight for speed.

Lightest, fastest, first up every climb—this bike delivers incredible ride quality and aerodynamic advantage. It’s made of all-new 800 Series OCLV Carbon and weighs less than 700 grams.

The superbike you know and love, made even lighter than before thanks to all-new 800 Series OCLV Carbon.