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Trek 920 review

Trek’s hydraulic disc-braked take on the tourer

David Caudery / Immediate Media

Simon Withers

Comprehensive kit, quality components and an excellent, comfortable ride

No mudguards as standard but that’s about it if you’re happy with aluminium

With its aluminium frame, hydraulic disc brakes and thru-axles, it’s fair to say that the striking-looking Trek 920’s frameset is an outlier in the touring bike category.

It’s not only the frame and fork that are ploughing a unique furrow, though. Touring bikes are the last hangout of the triple chainset but Trek’s 920 has a double with small chainrings, emphasising the importance of lower gears.

But don’t be fooled: this Trek is every inch the full-on tourer that’s designed to carry you and nearly 40 kilos of your kit (a claimed 25kg at the back, 11.8kg at the front) – with a hefty overall weight limit of bike, rider and cargo at a claimed 136kg /300lb. In all my tours, I’ve never carried anything like 40kg.

• What is a touring bike?
• Road bike groupsets: everything you need to know

An aluminium frame instead of steel? One of the oft-repeated arguments in favour of steel is that if the frame fails in Uzbekistan or Uttar Pradesh all you need is to find a garage with a welder and your troubles are over.

There is an element of truth to this and I have met one cycle-tourist who did this. But, frankly, any ‘incident’ that writes off an aluminium frame is likely to do the same to its steel counterpart.

Years ago, my loaded aluminium tourer fell off a railway station platform onto the tracks. It came away with nothing more than a scratch. Fortunately, this was in rural New South Wales, one train a day in each direction. I also managed 3,000 miles in three months on that frame, some of it on poor roads.

The Trek 920 has a double chainset rather than a triple and it’s a move away from the Shimano hegemony with its 2x10-speed SRAM setup, which consists of SRAM S700 Double-Tap shifters (two) and GX derailleurs.

Crucially, while it may only have 20 gears compared with the 27 or 30 on the other bikes on test ( Fuji's Touring Disc , Cinelli's Hobootleg Easy Travel , Ridgeback's Panorama and Thorn's Club Tour MK5) this doesn’t compromise gears at the all-important lower end – the 28x36 is similar to the bottom gear on the other tourers.

The 42x11 top gear is actually the lowest top gear on test by a fair margin, though that’s rarely an issue when it’s fully laden.

Trek 920 ride impressions

The 920’s ride is a sumptuous, king-of-the-road experience. Loaded up – with most of the weight at the rear – it’s stable, comfortable and tackles poor roads, grit, gravel and towpaths with barely a murmur.

Unloaded, or carrying little kit, the 920 is only negligibly slower than a road bike and as plush as you’ll need.

I got on with the saddle but not everybody will, and for a bike of this size you might want a slightly shorter stem for adventures.

But those are minor quibbles on a bike that I dare you not to like, even if its looks might cause a raised eyebrow among touring traditionalists.

The highlight of the component package is the braking. The cable-actuated discs elsewhere are easily adequate for touring (I’ve toured on cantis and caliper rim brakes with no problems), but SRAM’s hydraulic discs are a level or two above with great braking with minimal effort from your hands and arms.

Gear shifting from the DoubleTap levers is equally efficient, and you’ll pick up the technique within minutes if you’re coming from a Shimano background.

• Road disc brakes: everything you need to know

Part of the ride quality comes from the Bontrager Duster 29er rims and wide 2in XR1 mountain bike tyres, and both the rims and tyres are tubeless ready.

The 920 doesn’t come with mudguards but has the fittings for them – and mounts for just about everything else that you could carry, including triple-bottle bosses.

The 920’s Blendr stem is compatible with a wide range of dedicated computers , lights and other accessories. Very neat.

Trek 920 overall

The Trek is perhaps the most versatile bike in my test, doubling up as a day-to-day machine and full-on tourer, expedition, adventure or bikepacking bike.

It comes in at just 12.4kg in a 54cm frame with two panniers, and if you whip these off and fit narrower, slicker tyres (or even change to road wheels ) you’ll have a bike nearer 10kg; although it won’t be a crit-racing flyer, it will be comfortable, stable, very well appointed and that little bit sharper.

Trek 920 geometry

• Size (* tested): 49, 52, 54*, 56, 58, 61cm
• Seat angle: 74 degrees
• Head angle: 71 degrees
• Chainstay: 46.4cm
• Seat tube: 43.1cm
• Top tube: 54cm
• Head tube: 12cm
• Fork offset: 5.25cm
• Bottom bracket drop: 8.5cm
• Bottom bracket height: 28.2cm
• Wheelbase: 1,084mm
• Stack: 58.3cm
• Reach: 39.2cm

How we tested

This bike was tested against four other top touring bikes that have been designed to let you unlock your inner adventurer.

Other bikes on test:

• Fuji Touring Disc
• Cinelli Hobootleg Easy Travel
• Ridgeback Panorama
• Thorn Club Tour MK5

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Trek 920 Review – Is it Worth the Money?

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Touted as a ‘go-anywhere adventure bike’, my Trek 920 review is going to find out if this bike really is an all-rounder. If you are going to be paying out a couple of thousand dollars for a bike you’ll want it to at least perform comfortably in a variety of situations from standard commuting to going ‘off-road’ and onto some trails.

So, does the Trek 920 do this? Let’s find out.

Bottom Line Up Front: The Trek 920 is a quality bike for the price range it finds itself in. Ideal for long journeys on good surfaces and decent performance on gravel and uneven terrain, the 920 is an ‘all rounder’ to an extent. It performs well, even if it does need some tinkering to the stem and saddle.

920 is a go-anywhere adventure touring bike. It's built with drop-bars and 29er mountain bike wheels for balance and capability on any surface you'll encounter on a bikepacking expedition.

Table of Contents

Who is Trek?

If you have bought a mountain bike before or been interested in bikes at all, you’ll no doubt have come across the Trek brand at some stage.

They are one of the biggest bike manufacturers in the world. Founded away back in 1975, they’ve built up a truly global reach that spans across many countries. Their main base is in Wisconsin, USA, but you’ll find Trek bikes being used in Europe, Asia, South Africa, and pretty much everywhere that biking is popular.

They manufacture a variety of bikes for different purposes from adventure bikes to hardtail mountain bikes so there is something for all tastes and interests. (Here check some of them you might actually like: Trek Marlin 4 , Trek Marlin 5 , Trek Marlin 6 , Trek Marlin 7 ).

What kind of bike is the Trek 920?

The Trek 920 is marketed as a ‘ go-anywhere adventure bike ’ so it fits into the touring category.

This means that it is designed so it can handle a variety of different terrain from the daily commute to work across smoother roads to hit the trail where you’ll encounter bumps and difficult conditions. The nature of a touring bike is that it should be able to handle long distances with durability and comfort.

You’ll find out as you go through my Trek 920 review that the bike and its components have been designed to handle various types of adventures but do its features necessarily mean that this is an all-rounder?

The Main Features of the Trek 920

What is the Trek 920 frame made from?

The frame on the Trek 920 is a 100 Series Alpha aluminum frame.

Aluminum was really the default frame of choice for a long time before carbon came along and became more accessible to manufacturers. The advantage that an aluminum frame like the one on the Trek 920 has is that it’s less expensive than a carbon frame. If you’re looking to save some bucks on a new bike then choosing an aluminum frame is usually a good starting point.

That being said, aluminum frames and the 100 Series Alpha aluminum frame that is on this bike are durable. They should last a long time even if you are regularly going off-road with this bike. The frame also comes with thru-axles, internal cable routing, and a bent top tube.

What about the wheels?

The wheels that you’ll find on the Trek 920 are Bontrager Duster Elite, Tubeless Ready, and 100x15mm thru-axle on the front and Bontrager Duster Elite, Tubeless Ready, 142×12 thru-axle on the rear.

You can fit up to 29×2.25” tires on the 920 if you wish. With the scope for adding wider tires onto this bike, it should add to the overall comfort of your ride as well as increasing the type of terrain it can handle.

I’ve found the tires on the Trek 920 to be able to offer a smooth ride both on flat roads as well as gravel trails and if you want to add other mountain bike tires you can.

What brakes does the Trek 920 have?

The bike comes with TRP Hylex hydraulic disc brakes. They provide good stopping power in a variety of conditions from dry and sunny days to wet and muddy terrain.

Even with the extra weight that you’ll be carrying if using this as a touring bike, the brakes should perform very well. As far as mountain bike brakes go they’re certainly not the worst out there.

In fact, the hydraulic disc brakes don’t exactly require a ton of maintenance either – unlike the mechanical disc brakes – so that is an added bonus.

Does it have any other features?

There are a few other features of the Trek 920 that I need to go over with you. It has a SRAM S700, 2-speed Drivetrain, and SRAM S700, 10-speed shifters so you’ll be able to pick up decent speeds on this bike.

The range of gears also means that its designer for touring as well. The Bontrager Evoke saddle isn’t the most comfortable and you’ll find that many people tend to replace the stock version with something a bit better and more suited to long-distance rides.

The Trek 920 comes in a range of sizes too from 49cm to 61cm so you should be able to get a size to suit you. The default color is Matt Sandstorm which looks really sleek and definitely gives it an aesthetic edge over some other bikes in the same category. You can potentially get up to 6 water bottles on the bike which further enhances its reputation for long-distance journeys.

How does the Trek 920 perform?

The main purpose of the 920 is as a long-distance touring bike however it is also touted as being able to handle a variety of different terrain too.

It has what you need for a touring bike and you’ll get a comfortable ride over long distances. The gear range also helps to hit a good speed while the fact that it has a 136 KG maximum weight further enhances its reputation as an adventure bike that you can head off on for hours (if not longer) at a time.

The wide tire clearance helps with comfort and stability so it can perform fairly well on less than ideal roads and trails where you’re going to hit a lot of bumps and uneven ground.

The aluminum frame can contribute to a somewhat harsh ride at times and there is a preference towards steel on long-distance and carbon for off-road adventures however I felt the Trek 920 performed well across a variety of surfaces.

What are the specs of the Trek 920?

Find the main specs of the Trek 920 below.

Will I get a warranty with the Trek 920?

You will get a lifetime warranty with the Trek 920 (for the original owner) and this covers the frame. There is between a 1 and 4-year warranty included on the other parts of the bike too.

What’s the price range of the Trek 920?

The Trek 920 comes in around $2,099.99 so ever so slightly over the $2000 mark.

There are cheaper options out there but the value for money is pretty strong with this bike. As a long-distance touring bike that also has the capability for gravel trails and off-road pursuits, the Trek 920 is set in a good price range for beginners and experienced mountain bikers .

If you are looking to spend a bit of money on a bike but don’t want to enter the really high end of the market, the Trek 920 fits the bill.

Trek 920 is suited for people who…

• Prefer a bike that uses an aluminum frame
• Need a bike for long-distance journeys with occasional off-road trails
• Want to carry a lot of water bottles with them
• Have a bit of money to spend without going into the high-end price bracket

Trek 920 is not suited for people who…

• Don’t like aluminum frames on long-distance biking
• Don’t want to make any alterations to the stock components
• Want a bike to use on gravel trails and tricky terrain all the time

What do users think of Trek 920?

The Trek 920 has received an abundance of positive feedback albeit with a few concerns mainly around the stock stem length and the saddle.

The stem length has been said to be too long for the average rider with the 58” version coming in at 110mm. A lot of people replace the stem with the smaller part which has helped with rider fatigue and overall control. The saddle is another part that is often replaced on the 920 for something a little bit more comfortable.

That being said, overall the Trek 920 has been praised for its all-round approach. Its tires, brakes, drivetrain, and potential for up to 6 water bottles, on sizes 56cm and above, means that it is ideal for long distances as well as shorter off-road pursuits.

The Pros and Cons of the Trek 920

• The high-quality bike is made from aluminum construction
• Provides good value for money
• Ideas as a touring bike that can handle some off-road pursuits
• Capacity for up to 6 water bottles on sizes 56cm and above
• Powerful stopping with hydraulic disc brakes
• Decent speeds and comfortable ride
• The saddle can be uncomfortable so is often replaced
• The stem is too long and will probably need to be changed
• Maneuverability is impeded due to the design of bar-end shifters

FAQs About Trek 920

This bike uses an aluminum frame.

The Trek 920 has tire clearance up to 2.0” rubber with fenders or you can fit up to 2.3” without fenders.

The Trek 920 can perform well on gravel and uneven trails. It is designed as an all-rounder touring bike.

As the original owner, you will get a lifetime warranty for the frame and other parts come with between a 1 and 4-year warranty.

The bike is available in 49, 52, 54, 56, 58 and 61cm sizes.

What are the best Trek 920 alternatives?

#1 trek 520.

The Trek 520 comes in a shade cheaper than the 920 – it costs $1,679.99 – and it commands some thought as an alternative to the 920.

If you are a steel frame fan then the 520 will suit you as it comes with a Chromoly steel frame that offers durability and a smooth ride over long distances. It is slightly heavier than the 920 comings in at 14.26 kg. It can handle loads of up to 125 kg.

The Trek 520 uses Bontrager H1 Hard-case Ultimate, 700x38c with reflective sidewall tires. They provide a good cushion against bumps and uneven surfaces while still allowing you to pick up speed.

Other Features

The Trek 520 has a Shimano Sora R3000, 9-speed drivetrain, and TRP Spyre C 2.0 mechanical disc, 160mm rotor brakes. The bike is ideal as a slightly cheaper alternative to the 920 and does come with a fairly similar spec although the 920 is able to handle more weight. If you are a fan of steel with a bike that can handle long distances while offering a comfortable ride then the Trek 520 is worth your consideration.

520 is a steel touring bike made for the open road. It's the longest-running model in our lineup, and it's built to carry you and your gear on your longest journeys.

#2 Giant Toughroad SLR 2

For another cheaper alternative to the Trek 920, the Toughroad SLR 2 from Giant is a dependable bike that can handle a variety of terrain too.

The Toughroad SLR 2 comes with a lightweight aluminum similar to the 920 and it also features a lightweight design which is great for touring. Its integrated rack mounts also help to load the bike over short trails or over a long distance.

The Toughroad SLR has Giant Sycamore S, 700×50, FlatGuard Deflect 2 tires, and the tubeless design means you’ll get a smooth ride and be able to handle most types of surfaces.

Other features

The bikes have Shimano BL-MT201 hydraulic discs which provide adequate stopping power in a range of different biking conditions from dry hard roads to soft muddy trails. There is a Shimano Acera 9-speed triple crankset too. The Toughroad SLR too is a bit cheaper as well than the 920 as it costs just over a thousand dollars at $1050 although it doesn’t offer the same performance as the Trek model.

Conclusion – Is that Trek 920 worth it?

The Trek 920 is a great bike for the cost – there is no denying that.

At just over $2000 you get a high-quality bike that is at home traveling long distances and comes with a variety of features and components to suit this type of riding. The fact that it can also handle itself on off-road trails and less than perfect conditions is a great bonus too. It isn’t a true trail bike but that isn’t its main function.

It performs great on typical touring routes that consist of smooth roads coupled with some uneven ground and gravel. If this is what you are planning on using it for then it is ideal for these kinds of situations.

There are some issues around how comfortable the saddle is and the stock stem length is one of the longest I’ve seen.

With a high load capacity, room for a number of water bottles, and a design that promotes speed, control, and ability to be a bit of an all-rounder across various roads, the Trek 920 is definitely worth your consideration as your new touring bike.

1 thought on “Trek 920 Review – Is it Worth the Money?”

Had my 920 for 3 years now and concur will all of the points above. If you van only own 1 bike, this is the one. Put on skinny tires and it is even faster!

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Zachary Kenney

Adventure Doesn't Find You

Trek 920 Ultimate Adventure Gravel Bike Review

Reviewing bikes is something I’ve always wanted to do, but reviewing a bike that’s already 3-4 years old by the time I get it usually doesn’t warrant an online review. This Trek 920 ; however, is my first new bike I’ve ever owned. And with it being the first new bike I’ve ever owned, I cannot even begin to tell you how much I enjoy riding this bike. I’d even go as far as to say as it made me fall back in love with riding bikes. The Trek 920, advertised as Trek’s go-anywhere adventure touring bike, lives up to its name.

A little background on my riding style. Grew up riding BMX, like most teens. Transitioned to road riding while in college (2010) in Pennsylvania and began to take it seriously when living in New England (2014). Picked up mountain biking in 2017 while riding the rooted, hilly trails of Connecticut. Moved to Utah in 2019 and currently live in Park City, UT where rides consistently involve 2,000 vertical feet of climbing and technical/fast descents. I like to go fast both uphill and even faster downhill.

First off, this rig comes standard with 29″x2.00″ tires. For reference, your burly mountain bike is probably running tire widths of 2.20″-2.40″. So right away you’ll notice how much traction and gnarly trail you can cover with these beefy tires. Sure, they won’t roll as well as a skinny tire or a gravel tire, but those tires won’t get you into half as much adventure as these will.

Second, the drivetrain. Equipped with SRAM S7000 Shifters up front, SRAM X5 front derailleur in the middle, paired with SRAM GX rear derailleur in the back. Tied in with a 11-36 10-speed cassette, this drivetrain runs surprisingly well with minimal maintenance needed. At first, the SRAM DoubleTap shifters were hard to get used to, but after a year on the bike, I really like the technology. Plus the range on this drivetrain is pretty astounding, and much needed when you have a fully loaded bike on a tour.

Last, the frame & setup of the Trek 920. This bike was designed and built to haul your gear into the backcountry and not only survive, but thrive. Sure, you can strap anything to a bike, but if it’s not designed to carry that load, you’ll feel like the bike is going to collapse under the weight. Or worse, get weighed down by the bike before you even load it up with anything. The spec weight of this bike is a super light 28.41 lbs. Sure, heavy compared to a road bike, but it’s not that, it’s an adventure bike. And you’re road bike would snap under the impact I’ve put this thing through.

The Ride Experience

I’ll be the first to tell you that there is no such thing as a one bike quiver, but the Trek 920 being designed as the go-anywhere adventure touring bike, it comes pretty damn close. So I actually won this bike in a contest held by Outside TV Campfire Contest in October 2018 . Since winning the bike, I’ve ridden it all over Park City. At first, it was just my commuter bike and used to go get groceries. But that was only because I didn’t know it’s full capabilities.

Treating this bike like a mountain bike, I’ve taken this bike on the Glenwild, Round Valley, and Utah Olympic Park singletrack, where it not only handled well, but rode surprisingly well. I’ve never climbed technical sections with such ease before due to how efficient a rigid frame bike rides. Long traversing sections were so much fun, with the monster tires eating up all of the smaller bumps allowing you to just cruise at the high altitude. Then come the descents. I’ll be the first to tell you that it’s sketchy. Without front suspension, and with those drop bars, your center of gravity is really forward on the bike. Little drops and features, that you wouldn’t even notice on a mountain bike, tend to throw you for a whirl and get exciting. This is also the part where biking became fun for me again, having to really pay attention to all the line choices instead of letting my suspension eat it up. With that being said, I tend to stick to blue trails for my descents so that I don’t get into anything over my head (or go over the bars).

Riding this bike like a gravel bike, well obviously it was born for that. Just last week I rode a gravel rail trail section where this thing rolled superb and kept the tire side down in some of the looser gravel sections. The dirt felt hard to me, but I don’t think a skinny tire bike could make it very far on the trail, not without a few spills and punctures. Having the option to cruise on a gravel trail, at 15mph, chewing up miles is a unique experience and one that you simply cannot get on a road bike or mountain bike. Plus, it’s just fun to knock out your Strava climb times on gravel climbs that you normally ride with your mountain bike.

The touring capability of this bike was unparalleled to anything I’ve loaded up and ridden. Having toured around the White Mountain National park on a bike that was inefficient and weight 95 lbs fully loaded, was a nightmare to say the least. This bike was the exact opposite. I loaded it up for a bike-ski-tour micro-adventure in Park City during the early spring, and it couldn’t have ridden any better. The added weight, albeit awkward, of my ski setup was barely noticeable as I climbed the bike path trails from my home to the ski area. Even with the snow and rain that was falling, the bike braked perfectly, kept the tire side down, and didn’t have me exhausted by the time I had to click into my skis. I’ve yet to do a full bike tour with this bike, but after everything I’ve ridden on it, I can’t wait.

As I mentioned before, I’m a firm believer that there is no such thing as a one quiver bike, but the Trek 920 gets damn close. If you’re looking to get a bike that you’ll spend most of your time riding roads, dirt roads, gravel trails, and light mountain biking; well this bike is your perfect fit. Looking for adventure workhorse bike that will get you into some serious fun in the farthest sections of the backcountry, I’d go with this bike. It really has made riding fun again, because now I get excited to go fast through rocky and dirt trails that my full suspension mountain bike wouldn’t even notice the features. And even riding this thing to and from work, I can just zone out and ride without worrying about cracks, holes, or dirt sections that I’d panic if I hit on my road bike.

This is my first bike review, I hope you enjoyed it. I’ll leave the real technical reviews to the guys at PinkBike.com and the other professionals. This was just my experience on the bike.

Hi there, my name is Zachary Kenney and I’m an adventure filmmaker & photographer.  My passion is to tell stories that will hopefully motivate you to go live a more adventurous life. Whether that is to experience the view from the summit of a mountain, or wandering through a new town on a road trip. Currently based out of Park City, UT.

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Nice review! Thanks! This bike has my attention, I will read a few more reviews and decide after that.

Thx for review of a bike am put my eye on for cummuter and touring road and little gravel here and There. Have You try little thinner tyres on the bike, and how the bike feels now after couple if months use? Safe journy. M

I have put 40c tires on it, and it is awesome! It rides almost as well as a road bike on pavement and still can hold a corner and make it through chunky sections on mellow mountain bike trail. But obviously, it shines on dirt roads and gravel. Love the setup now.

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• Rider Notes

2019 Trek 920

An aluminum frame touring bike with upper mid-range components and hydraulic disc brakes.

Manufacturer Price

For This Bike

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Based on frame geometry and build specs.

A bike with lower gearing will be easier to ride up steep hills, while a higher top end means it will pedal faster down hills.

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Do you have this bike? Help other riders make a decision about which size will work for them by sharing your own size and fit notes. Report your fit

Jul 2020 · Simon Withers

Trek’s hydraulic disc-braked take on the tourer

Comprehensive kit quality components and an excellent comfortable ride

No mudguards as standard but that s about it if you re happy with aluminium

Read Review

Sep 2016 · Jordan Gibbons

The Trek 920 Disc blurs the lines between road bike and mountain bike but theres no doubting it's an adventure bike.

Aug 2016 · Skyler Des Roches

Joining the ranks of the 'adventure bike', the Trek 920 aims to rewrite the classic touring rulebook. Skyler takes one to B.C. to find out what this means.

Value for the price – impressive package for sub-$2000

Comes with good quality front and rear racks

Finally, a gear range on a touring bike that’s not too tall

Tire clearance for 2.0” rubber with fenders, or up to 2.3” without

Bottle bosses for 6 bottles in size 56cm and up, and 5 bottles below

Hydraulic disc brakes provide plenty of power for stopping a loaded bike

Surprisingly good tire spec

Lightweight – 26lb without racks or pedals in size 58cm, 29lbs with racks and pedals.

Wants to go fast.

Stock stem length way, way too long for average build

Bar-end shifters are vulnerable to damage, and impede maneuvering obstacles or climbing out of the saddle

Stock saddle designed without any reflection on human anatomy

Long rear end/high-trail fork gives away too much maneuverability for touring stability

Last updated July 29 Not listed for 1,727 days

Trek 920 Rugged Touring Bike – An Excellent Adventure Partner

The Trek 920 blurs the line between “gravel” bikes and loaded touring bikes.

The whole concept of bicycle touring has been turned on its ear in the past few years. For a generation the idea was loading up a stalwart Trek 520 and following the pavement wherever it took you. Today many folks don’t even start their tour until they find where the pavement ends. Rides like the Tour Divide or the Oregon Outback have made back roads the new main street for bike touring, and Trek has designed the new 920 model for exploring on dirt, gravel and beyond. (Trek also debuted a new 720 light touring model.)

The parts spec uses a traditional touring layout but swaps in some high-tech mountain bike components.

The all-new aluminum frame and fork are more reminiscent of a mountain bike than a traditional, steel touring rig. The massive tubes keep things from twisting when loaded or traversing rough terrain. The distinctive kink in the top tube adds room for a second bottle cage on the down tube, meaning there is room for four bottle cages on the main triangle, as well as one on each fork leg.

Thru-axles front and rear add stiffness and security.

The 920 can be stripped down for events like the Dirty Kanza 200 or run with its included front and rear aluminum racks, giving you all the carrying capacity you could want. And while it may look a bit like a traditional touring bike with this set up, the details make it anything but. The Bontrager Duster wheels and knobby 29×2.0 Bontrager XR1 tires are straight from the brand’s mountain bike line, as are the inclusion of thru-axles front and rear.

Braking – Trek 920

Braking is handled by the excellent TRP Hylex hydraulic system.

The drivetrain is a curious mix as well, with traditional-looking bar end shifters paired with a SRAM S1000 42/28 mountain bike crankset and 11-36 cassette. Keeping your loaded rig under control is made much easier with the TRP Hylex hydraulic disc brakes. After using these for a few weeks it’s impossible to imagine going back to cantilevers.

The frame can also fit fenders for double duty as a commuter, something that should normally be essential here in Oregon.

I’ve been riding the Trek 920 on back roads all over Oregon in the past few weeks (aided by an alarming lack of snowpack) and thus far it has been an excellent adventure partner. Watch for an in-depth review soon.

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Vital stats Trek 920

• Price: $2,090
• Weight: 28.13 pounds, w/racks
• Sizes: 49, 52, 54, 56, 58 (tested), 61cm
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Review: Trek 920 Disc

• Price: $2,090
• Weight: 24.8 pounds (without racks), 27.5 pounds (with racks)
• Sizes: 49, 52, 54, 56, 58 (tested) and 61 cm
• More: trekbikes.com

Posted in Best Of Bicycle Times Bikepacking Bikes Gear Gravel Bike Review Bike Touring Bikepacking Commuter Bike Gravel Bike Touring Bike Trek Trek 920

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Size / 49cm, 52cm, 54cm, 56cm, 58cm, 61cm

At a glance

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Specifications

• Frame 100 Series Alpha aluminum, rack & fender mounts, 142x12mm thru axle, 73mm threaded bottom bracket
• Fork 920 alloy disc adventure, 15mm thru axle
• Wheels Bontrager Duster Elite, Tubeless Ready, 100x15mm thru axle
• Wheel Size 29
• Tires Bontrager XR1, 29x2.00'' [p18]
• Chain KMC X10, 10 speed
• Crank Size: 49, 52, 54, ProWheel forged alloy, 42/28, 2-piece, 170mm length; Size: 56, 58, 61, ProWheel forged alloy, 42/28, 2-piece, 175mm length
• Bottom Bracket Sealed cartridge, GXP Type
• Front Derailleur SRAM X5, 34.9mm clamp
• Rear Derailleur SRAM GX, Type 2, long cage
• Shifters Size: 49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 61, SRAM S700, 2-speed; Size: 49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 61, SRAM S700, 10 speed
• Brakeset Hydraulic Disc
• Handlebar Bontrager Race VR-C, 31.8mm
• Saddle Bontrager Evoke
• Seatpost Bontrager alloy, 27.2mm, 12mm offset, 330mm length
• Stem Size: 49, Bontrager Elite Basic, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 80mm length; Size: 52, Bontrager Elite Basic, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 90mm length; Size: 54, 56, Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 100mm length; Size: 58, 61, Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 110mm length
• Headset FSA Integrated, sealed cartridge bearing, 1-1/8''

Q: How much is a 2021 Trek 920?

A 2021 Trek 920 is typically priced around $2,099 USD when new. Be sure to shop around for the best price, and also look to the used market for a great deal.

Q: Where to buy a 2021 Trek 920?

The 2021 Trek 920 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: What size wheels does the 2021 Trek 920 have?

The 2021 Trek 920 has 29 wheels.

Q: What size 2021 Trek 920 should I get?

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Trek 520 vs Trek 920

The Trek touring bike battle! So which bike is better? We are going to compare each of these well established touring bikes side by side and see what the difference is between them. When it comes to price the Trek 520 is $420 cheaper at $1679 when the Trek 920 is $2,099. But what really is the difference and which one is best for you and your riding goals?

To start off the Trek 520 comes in two new models for 2021. Either the 520 disc (which comes with a 3 x 9 Alivio, Sora groupset) or the 520 Grando (which is 900 grams lighter then the 520 Disc and comes with a 2 x 10 GRX 400, Tiagra groupset) we will go into detail about gear range, ratio and inches later to see what really is the difference for climbing. But that is the main difference between these two. Then Trek 520 Disc is their longest running bike in the lineup and has been a work horse for years when it comes bike touring, the more traditional touring bike if you like. With stable touring geometry that make it the perfect choice for loaded multi-day trips.

We will get into the detailed differences soon but essentially, the Trek 920 is consider a “go-anywhere adventure touring bike”. One would say more suited for bikepacking adventures than traditional road touring. Where this bike has 29er mountain bike wheels for balance and capability on any surface. Allowing you to explore those tracks less travelled.

Trek 520 Disc

The Trek 520 Disc comes weighs in at 31.4 lbs / 14.2 kg which is rather average for a touring bike made from steel but this bike has a Aluminium fork. It does come out of the box with front and rear racks which has to be a huge plus. Not all touring bikes are sold with rack systems.

However the differences we start to see between this bike and the Trek 920 is that. the 520 has Mechanical Disc while the 920 runs Hydraulic Disc. That leads me onto the gearing. Again the Trek 520 comes with the 3 x 9 Alivio, Sora groupset. With the Shimano Alivio T4060, 48/36/26 crank with 175mm length. And a Shimano HG200, 11-36 rear cassette. Rolling on some Bontrager H1 Hard-case Ultimate, 700x38c tires. So what does this mean for the bikes gear range?

Using these details above, the Trek 520 has a huge range from a 19.79″ climbing gear all the way up to 119.81″ for the highest gear . So for example if you are riding downhill on the smallest cog and largest rear ring at 90 RPM you could reach a speed of 51.6 kph or 32.1 mph. But the best part about the gearing is the climbing gear. You want something this low for a bike that is going to be loaded with gear. Allowing you to climb effortlessly. If you plan to ride fully loaded with 20kg or more gear on the bike anything under 20″ for the granny gear is ideal. This bike can do that!

Consider the Trek 520 Disc as a bike ideal for fully loaded road touring. Priced at $1679.99 If you want something that is a bit lighter and you only plan to carry a lightweight touring gear setup then the Trek 520 Grando, might be your cup of tea!

Trek 520 Grando

The Grando fits somewhere in the middle between the like of the 520 (traditional touring bike) and the 920 (off adventure bike). It is considered a “steel adventure bike made for off-road excursions”. Trek coined the terms “gravel randonneuring” to describe this bike. Bringing back the spirit of the classic rando bikes . This rig is ideal for bikepacking and gravel riding.

The only real difference between the Grando and the 520 Disc is the obvious aesthetics, groupset and saddle. Plus you only get the front rack with the Grando but it is more suited to lightweight adventure cycling. So that leaves room to fit a saddle bag and other bikepacking bags.

The Grando is lighter at 29.3 lbs / 13.3 kg you get the same Steel frame and alloy build. But just different colours and frame aesthetics. The gearing though? Isn’t the 2×10 GRX 400, Tiagra groupset more limiting? Let’s take a look! So you get the ProWheel forged alloy, 42/28 crank which is a 175 cm length. And the Shimano HG50, 11-36 cassette. With slightly wider tires more suited fro gravel grinding. The Bontrager GR1 Expert 700x40c tires. Which gives you a 21.56″ climbing gear and 105.58″ highest gear . So this means when riding downhill at 90 RPM you should hit around 45.5 kph or 28.3 mph.

Yes it is slightly more limited then the 520 Disc but you are not carrying as much gear. If you are running say front panniers and up to 10 kg of gear anywhere around 25″ on the granny is ideal which is what I would recommend for this bike. The Trek 520 Grando is priced the same at $1,679.99

However if you plan off road touring you want something around 18″ climbing gear which this bike doesn’t. Which leads me to the Trek 920!

The Trek 920 is an adventure touring bike that is capable at taking you just about anywhere. A lighter bike out of them all coming in at 28.4 lbs / 12.9 kg, thanks to the all aluminium frame and fork build. With Hydraulic Disc and 29″ wheels and with the Bontrager XR1, 29 x 2.00′ tires. It is the most preferred bike of choice if all you want to go is off-road!

The 920 comes with the Bontrager Duster Elite, Tubeless Ready, 100x15mm thru axle rims compared to the Trek 520’s Bontrager Affinity Disc, Tubeless Ready, 36-hole, 21mm width rims.

The main difference again comes in the groupset with the 2 x 10 GX, X5 option on the 920. Which is considered a high-end component level compared to the 520’s mid-range component level. The Trek 920 has a ProWheel forged alloy, 42/28 crank with 170 mm (5mm shorter then the 520 crank arms) and a SRAM PG-1030, 11-36 cassette. Resulting in a 22.22″ climbing gear which actually in theory is not any better than either the 520 Grando or 520 Disc when it comes to climbing. And a 108.82″ largest gear . Yes the Trek 920 has better quality components but their range is not better. If you are wanting to save money, I really think the 520 Grando is a capable bike. When it comes to riding at 90 RPM downhill on the largest gears you can expect around 46.9 kph or 29.1 mph. Priced at $2,099

Tire Clearance

But wait we have not discussed tire clearances. If a bike has room for wider tires this can allow your ride to feel more supple and gain you access to rougher roads with ease. And we have not discussed geometries yet. From my research the Trek 520 has clearance for up to 29 x 2.0’’ tires of 700c x 50 mm . While the Trek 920 can fit up too, 2.3″ without fenders or 2″ with fenders.

Geometry – Trek 520 Vs Trek 920

Want to learn more about understanding bike geometry? Read this article which goes through all the jargon and what it means for a comfortable ride!

Geometry can play a big part in the difference of how I bike rides and feels. It is definitely something to consider when buying a bike. On first impressions the Trek 920 seems to have more of a MTB geometry and the 520 has a dailed in touring geometry all the way back to 1983. But after looking at the specs the 920 has features of a touring bike geometry with upright positioning and long wheelbase and chainstays.

So I have compared all geometry measurements for both bikes to see where they differ. Please note that both the 520 Disc and the 520 Grando have identical measurements. But all the measurements below are in mm and are for both 54 cm sized bikes.

Looking at the numbers above you can see Trek have been able to match some of the 920’s measurements with their classic touring geometry of the 520. With the same 1.49 stack/reach ratio. Making it a rather upright riding position. Not as upright as something like the Surly Disc Trucker which has 1.57. With the same seat tube and head tube angles. Then we start to see some slight differences in the numbers. What does it mean? I will try and break it down for you.

The trails are fairly similar with a 3 mm difference. The 520 is on the edge of feeling predictable and stable with a 65mm trail which is what you want in a touring bike. The 920 has 68mm which makes it more stable but it is still not sluggish.

The chainstay has a 15mm difference. The 520 being shorter with 450 mm which makes it feel more chill in the rear. While the 920 has 465 mm which is on the long end, making the rear feel more stable. This results in a longer wheelbase on the 920 by 31 mm and a wider front centre by 20 mm. Meaning more weight distribution if you plan to load up the 920 and help you stay upright on some rougher road conditions. Also that 20mm extra room allows more room from toe striking the front wheel. Also the bottom bracket drop is lower on the 920 by 15 mm which lowers the centre of gravity to help even further for staying upright on the rough stuff.

Overall they are all great bikes and I highly recommend them for touring and adventure biking. But it really comes down to what you will be using your ideal bike for? Are you planning to road tour on tarmac and have front and back pannier setup (traditional touring)? Then the Trek 520 Disc is a good choice. If you want a taste of traditional touring but want to dip your toes in off-road adventure cycling, then the Grando might be your choice. But if you want to go full out bikepacking off-road and nothing else then the Trek 920 is the best option.

Honestly for the type of riding I like to do. Off-road adventures with some road riding. The Trek 520 Grando is my favourite. With the decent climbing gear and off-road capabilities. However it is not the lightest. If weight is most important then the Trek 920 is going to be your best best. But if you are looking for value for money and want to save $420 I recommend the Trek 520 Grando!

About The Author

Codey Orgill, a seasoned bicycle adventurer, has been exploring the world on two wheels for over 10 years. Since embarking on his initial cycling journey, Codey Orgill has traversed numerous countries, experiencing a series of epic adventures.

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The New 2016 Trek 920, 720, 520 and Crossrip Touring Bikes

Table of Contents

The 2016 trek 920 adventure touring bike, the trek 720 light touring bike, the trek crossrip light touring bike, the trek 520 long distance touring bike, want to compare these touring bikes with dozens of others, helpful resources, touring & bikepacking bike overview.

Trek have recently been busy building one of the most comprehensive adventure and touring bike line ups around. There are now SEVEN  different bikes, including the 2016 Trek 920, which are suited to everything from road touring right through to adventure off-road. I’ve put this resource together to guide you through the different models and help determine what might best suit you.

The 2016 Trek 920 is a tweaked mountain bike with a drop handlebar. It’s designed around wide, knobby mountain bike tyres which can take you to more places than slicks. It uses a mountain bike drivetrain and wheels, in combination with drop handlebars and bar-end shifters.

Although the 2016 Trek 920 is best suited to off-road riding, a swap-out to slick tyres would make it an exceptional long-distance touring bike. The geometry is actually prime for heavy-loaded touring with it’s high ‘fork trail’, long chainstay/wheelbase and tall front end. That said, the gearing is optimised around lower speeds, so the 42t front chainring may have you spinning a bit on road descents.

The bike price including front and rear racks is US $1989 .

The 720 is one of Trek’s lightweight touring options. It uses an alloy frame and carbon fibre fork to keep the weight down (11kg or so), making it a great multi-purpose bike like the Cannondale Touring. It comes with Shimano 105 11-spd gearing, TRP Hydro/Cable disc brakes and some front side-mount racks and dry bags.

The 720 is best suited to smooth roads with a lightweight load, although it’s a really sturdy bike and will handle front and rear panniers if you needed. It’s smallest gear is 29 gear inches, which is a little large for really steep hills including a load, but will be fine for most touring. There are eyelets for racks and fenders.

The price is US $1889 including the front dry bags.

The CrossRip is almost identical to the 720 in every way – it even uses the same aluminium frame tubing and carbon fibre fork. The geometry is ever so slightly different between the bikes; you’d be pretty hard pressed to notice the subtle differences. The most noticeable difference may be the 5mm taller and longer front end of the CrossRip. The likely reason for Trek having these two near-identical bikes is so they can market the bikes in two separate bike categories (fitness and touring).

Like the 720, CrossRips are most at home on a smooth road with a light load but will handle four panniers well. The bikes use either compact or road triple cranksets, working with wide-range cassettes to achieve a lowish drive gear (close to 1:1 / 29 gear inches). The bikes have eyelets for racks and fenders.

The CrossRip is available in three different builds. The LTD comes with Shimano 105 11-spd gearing and TRP Hydro/Cable disc brakes and is priced at US $1679 . Next up, the Elite uses Shimano Sora 9-spd gearing and cable disc brakes and is US $1199 . For a bit less money again, you can get the Comp with Shimano Claris 8-spd gearing at US $1099 . If you’re tossing up between the CrossRip LTD and 720, go the CrossRip as it has a US $200 price advantage!

The 520 has been in the Trek line-up for 33 years! It’s actually the longest running model in Trek’s bike range. As you can imagine, the geometry of the 520 has been refined a lot over this period. The bottom bracket is low, the chainstays are long and the steering pretty slow. All good things for touring.

The 520 uses 4130 steel for both the frame and fork. The spec is super simple, solid and reliable with 36 spoke wheels, cable brakes and bar-end shifters. The gear range is exceptional, spanning from 22 to 118 gear inches. This should be enough to climb almost anything with all four panniers, but if you wanted even more low gears you could switch the cassette to a 34t (21 gear inches).

The price is US $1259 with v-brakes and US $1359 with disc brakes. My pick would be the disc model!

Check out the  Touring Bicycle Buyer’s Guide  which compares touring bike steering, sizing, gear ratios, specification, pricing and more. The Bikepacking Bike Buyer’s Guide does the same thing, however, with a focus on lighter bikes and models with more off-road capability. Both of these guides are updated annually with the latest models at no extra cost!

All About Touring Bike Brakes Frame Materials for Bicycle Touring How to Select Touring Bike Gearing Understand Bicycle Frame Geometry What’s the Difference between Cyclocross and Touring Bikes?

2016 Advocate Lorax 2018 All City Gorilla Monsoon 2016 Basso Ulisse 2016 Bianchi Volpe and Lupo 2016 2016 Bombtrack Beyond 2017 Bombtrack Beyond 2018 Bombtrack Beyond 2018 Bombtrack Arise Tour 2019 Bombtrack Beyond 2016 Brodie Elan Vital 2016 Cannondale Touring 2019 Cannondale Topstone 2020 Cannondale Topstone 2016 Cinelli Hobootleg Geo 2018 Co-Op ADV 4.2 2017 Curve Grovel V2 2017 Diamondback Haanjo EXP Carbon 2016 Fuji Touring 2017 Fuji Touring 2018 Fuji Touring 2018 Fuji Touring Disc 2016 Genesis Tour de Fer 2016 Giant ToughRoad 2017 Giant ToughRoad 2018 Giant ToughRoad and ToughRoad GX 2016 Jamis Aurora and Aurora Elite 2019 Jones Plus SWB 2020 KOGA WorldTraveller-S 2016 Kona Big Rove 2016 Kona Roadhouse and Sutra LTD 2016 Kona Sutra 2017 Kona Sutra 2018 Kona Sutra 2018 Kona Sutra LTD 2019 Kona Sutra and Sutra LTD 2020 Kona Sutra and Sutra LTD 2020 Kona Unit X 2016 Marin Four Corners 2017 Marin Four Corners 2018 Marin Four Corners 2016 Masi Giramondo 2018 Masi Giramondo 2016 Niner RLT9 2016 Rawland Ulv and Ravn 2016 Salsa Deadwood 2017 Salsa Fargo 2018 Salsa Fargo Ti Frameset 2018 Salsa Journeyman 2016 Salsa Marrakesh 2017 Salsa Marrakesh 2018 Salsa Marrakesh 2020 Salsa Marrakesh 2017 Salsa Vaya 2019 Salsa Warbird 2016 Specialized AWOL 2017 Specialized AWOL 2017 Specialized Diverge 2018 Specialized Diverge 2019 Specialized Diverge 2017 Specialized Sequoia 2018 Specialized Sequoia 2019 Specialized Sequoia 2018 Surly Bridge Club 2017 Surly Troll 2016 Traitor Wander 2019 Trek 520 2016 Trek 920, 720, 520 & CrossRip 2017 Trek CrossRip 2018 Trek 920 2018 Trek 1120

• trek crossrip

Hi Alee. I just got the 920 on Friday and took it riding on the weekend!

It had about 15 kgs on it, about 75% rear loaded (until the front panniers arrive; also to give the rear wheel a bit of settling in before I head on a bigger trip). At first I thought it was not handling too good with the weight, but then I got the rear panniers forward and the weight properly L/R balanced …amazing difference 🙂 I’m new to this.

I did about 60 kms on tarmac undulating country roads around Tatong and then I’m not sure maybe about 60kms without much load (~7kg on rear) on state park clay road, gravel track, and variously more difficult track. I had lots of fun finding the boundaries (mainly mine), not being used to that type of bike or tyres. It felt well behaved and definitely good for a bit of fun with my limited off road experience. As I practiced picking lines and committing, ignoring obstacles etc, my confidence in what the bike was doing was rewarded.

I was running Schwalbe Marathons, as recommended elsewhere in your blog (pumped hard on the tarmac, soft off). The hums along the tarmac and tracks straight.

Really happy with the choice…found some things for me to learn about riding with weight and off sealed roads, got my body worn out in the sun, dust and hills, had heaps if fun. Successful foray into trekking with panniers 🙂

Sounds like you’ve made a great choice!

Hey Alee Given the 720 is cheaper than the crossrip at my local dealer? Which one would be the better option? I’ve more or less settled on the 720 since it to me looks lighter and with better specs. 🙂

They really are almost identical in spec and geometry. Go with the 720 if you like that better!

I had the Trek 728 back in 1982 and it was perfect. Unfortunately, I sold it in 1986. I am getting ready for a TransAmerican Bike Trail 4,000 mile trip. Which TREK is the right one for this kind of trip with four panniers all around? The 520? What year?

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Decathlon Riverside Touring 920 Review: Split Personality

With a well-rounded build kit, a dynamo hub, and all the mounting points you could ever need, the Decathlon Riverside Touring 920 is purpose-built for the long haul. Priced at around $1,800 USD, we were curious to see if this wallet-friendly adventure rig was as capable on the dirt as it is on paper. Find our review here…

Our first taste of the Riverside Touring 920 came in the form of a Reader’s Rig on the site—a prototype that Riverside Touring’s communications manager, César Bygodt, had been testing out prior to its release. As expected, there were lots of questions from our readers hoping to learn more about the final product, so we were eager to get one in for ourselves. Four years in the making, the Touring 920 is the brand’s first bike dedicated to off-road riding and bikepacking, sitting alongside the slightly less off-road-capable Touring 900 and 520.

So, what’s the big deal? Why was the Riverside Touring 920 voted as one of the most interesting bikes of 2021, and why are people so curious about it? For starters, the Touring 920 has a huge selection of mounting points that are begging to be loaded up with gear. The complete build kit is exceedingly well-rounded as well. Based around a carbon fork, 1×11 drivetrain, and hydraulic disc brakes, it comes stock with a front dynamo hub and top cap USB port for power on the go. All of this at a reasonable €1,499 (~$1,800 USD) price point with a lifetime warranty is almost unheard of in a production bike.

After sharing his first impressions video over on our YouTube channel , Neil shipped the Riverside Touring 920 my way for a closer look and some loaded riding. Besides being able to check it out for myself, I was eager to see whether or not the impressive list of features on the Touring 920 held up to real-world loaded riding and bikepacking. I’ve been putting the Touring 920 through its paces here in the Pacific Northwest over the last few months for this review, on everything from lightly loaded day rides to fully loaded local campouts.

Riverside Touring 920 Frame Specs

The Riverside Touring 920 is built around a triple-butted aluminum frame and an in-house carbon fork, which is designed to offer a blend of durability, comfort, and affordability. As mentioned above, the frame and fork together offer a wealth of mounting points—33 in total—including triple pack fork mounts, rack and fender mounts, and mounts on the seat stays for Decathlon’s rear rack or certain cargo cages. Given its many mounts and generously sized main triangle, it’s clear the Riverside Touring 920 wants to be loaded up to go see the world.

• Frame/fork: Aluminum/Carbon
• Angles (L): 72° Headtube, 73° Seattube
• Stack/Reach: 623mm/414mm
• BB Drop/Chainstay: 54mm/458mm
• Bottom Bracket: BSA threaded
• Hub specs: 12x100mm / 12x142mm, TA
• Seatpost: 31.6mm
• Max tire size: 29 x 2.4″
• Price: €1,499 (~$1,800 USD)

The frame uses a standard BSA threaded bottom bracket and thru-axles, with 12 x 100mm front and 12 x 142mm rear spacing. With clearance for up to 29 x 2.4” tires, a clean 1×11 drivetrain, and components including flared drop bars and hydraulic brakes, it has all the fixings for a serious drop-bar mountain bike—which we’ve found often make some of the most capable and versatile bikepacking rigs.

Most of the Riverside Touring 920’s cables and hoses are routed internally, other than the brake and shifter cables along the bottom of the chainstays and the front brake hose, which runs alongside the backside of the fork. While the stock build forgoes a front derailleur, converting it to a 2x (or even 3x) drivetrain is not out of the question. Otherwise, the frame has an overall clean design with subtle graphics and “designed by travellers for travellers” printed on the inside on the non-drive side seat stay.

Geometry and First Impressions

On most bikes specced with flared drop bars, beefy 29” tires, and 1×11 drivetrain, you can typically expect geometry that’s best suited for off-road excursions and the occasional section of singletrack, but the Touring 920 has an expectation-defying geometry. Decathlon doesn’t have too many numbers and specifics on its website beyond claims of “comfort and sturdiness,” but there’s a lot we can discern from simply looking at the frame—mainly because it rides nearly exactly how it looks.

The Touring 920 has a steep 72° head tube angle, which tucks the front wheel underneath the front end of the bike. This is much more on-trend with traditional gravel bikes than drop bar mountain bikes like the Kona Sutra ULTD, Salsa Fargo, and others, which all sit around 69°. Although the Touring 920’s large 29 x 2.25” tires helped cushion the ride to an extent, the head tube angle just felt too steep for them and made the front end of the bike bounce around on chunky descents. This meant I had to regularly adjust the tire pressure to dial in the comfort for the terrain, which isn’t really my style. Too hard and the front end felt chattery and harsh, too soft and it felt sluggish.

The Touring 920 has a fairly long wheelbase due to its long reach and long- ish chainstays, as well as a tall front end, which translates over to a stable, planted feel. The one significant outlier is the Touring 920’s bottom bracket height, which is surprisingly high on a bike like this with its 54mm drop—especially unusual to see in a bike designed for touring. To offer a comparison, the $1,500 Salsa Journeyman has a 72mm bottom bracket drop. Although a high bottom bracket can help with overall clearance and reducing pedal strikes on technical terrain, that’s not really what this bike is designed for, so it’s a bit of a head-scratcher.

As far as my riding position on the bike, I felt its length and high bottom bracket were offset by the high front end and wide bars. The resulting position was comfortable and upright, and is clearly optimized for long days in the saddle. On the size large I tested, I sometimes felt a little perched up on top of the bike, rather than in the bike like Neil described in his first impressions video. It wasn’t enough to feel unstable but wasn’t ideal for chunky terrain or fast descents. I’d describe the overall feel as neutral, in a good way.

Riverside Touring 920 Build Kit

The Touring 920 is incredibly well specced and competitively priced for what you get. It’s kitted out with a lot of great little details, which add up to a well-rounded bikepacking bike right out of the box. It’s equipped with a Shimano Deore XT dynamo hub, which generates power and sends it to the Cycle2Charge USB top cap port for charging electronics on the go. It comes rolling on tubeless-ready 29 x 2.25” Schwalbe Thunder Burt tires and Sun Ringle Duroc rims, which are both decent all-rounder components, albeit a little heavy. The underrated SRAM Rival 1×11 drivetrain worked flawlessly with proper maintenance, but I felt the 32T chainring and 11-42T cassette left me undergeared in both the high and low end when loaded up and riding on steep terrain. It’s great to see hydraulic brakes, thru-axles, and the popular Brooks Cambium C15 as the stock saddle—which I consider to be a premium upgrade with a ~$100 retail price.

Decathlon Riverside Touring 920 Build Kit

• Frame Triple Butted 60661 Aluminum
• Fork Riverside Carbon
• Headset Btwin
• Bottom Bracket SRAM Dub, BSA Threaded
• Crankset SRAM Dub, 32T
• Shifter SRAM Rival 1×11
• Derailleur SRAM Rival, Long Cage
• Cassette SRAM PG-1130, 11-42T
• Chain SRAM PC1130, 11-Speed
• Brakes SRAM Rival, Hydraulic Disc
• Brake Rotors SRAM Centerline 160mm
• Rims Sun Ringle Duroc 30
• Front Hub Shimano Deore XT Dynamo, 12x100mm
• Rear Hub Leeche OEM, 12x142mm
• Tires Schwalbe Thunder Burt 29 x 2.25”, Tubeless Ready
• Handlebar Riverside Touring Adventure Dropbar
• Stem Riverside Touring, 80mm
• Seatpost Aluminum, 31.6mm
• Saddle Brooks Cambium C15 All Weather
• Extras Tubeless Valves, Spare Spokes

Although there is a lot to like about the Touring 920’s build kit, there were a few things that didn’t quite align for me. First, I wasn’t a huge fan of the Riverside Touring Adventure bar and felt the 24° flare was too much and the drops ended too early to use in any meaningful way. I think a bar with around 12° flare would suit the bike better, unless your primary goal is to head out on mixed-surface day rides, rather than multi-day loaded rides. The width of the bar (620mm on M, L, XL / 580mm on S) left plenty of room for a handlebar bag, including either the large or small BXB Piccolo Short Flap bags I’ve been trying out this spring. Thankfully, the SRAM Rival hoods are comfortable and did a good job of locking my hands in place when rolling through rougher terrain.

As mentioned above, the Brooks Cambium C15 is a fantastic saddle, but it’s actually a little odd to see it specced on what is supposed to be a more affordable bike. It might work for lots of folks out there, but there’s an equal chance it won’t work for you, so a cheaper OEM spec saddle would have been fine to see here as well, and maybe would have allowed for upgrades elsewhere. There were a few other small details like the awkward thru-axle/quick-release skewer combo, which wasn’t user-friendly and came loose on long rides. And if I’m getting really picky, the unfinished-looking dynamo wiring and routing could be improved. Still, for the price, these are relatively minor complaints. There might be a few irregularities with the build, but overall it offers great value and most of it makes sense for its intended use.

Bikepacking on the Touring 920

Given its impressive array of mounts, the Riverside Touring 920 has the potential to run any type of bikepacking setup. That might be a rear rack, custom bolt-on frame bag, basketpacking setup, panniers, or a more svelte saddle bag and handlebar roll. I wouldn’t describe it as limiting, in any regard.

As someone who prefers a more upright drop-bar position, I found the Touring 920 to be quite comfortable, loaded or not. I wouldn’t describe its long wheelbase, steep head tube angle, and tall front end as playful. Rather, it was decidedly stable over most terrain. While some bikes come alive while loaded up for bikepacking, the 920 maintained a planted, pleasant ride quality that was great for long days in the saddle. The twitchiness resulting from its steep front end was reduced with the addition of my fully loaded BXB Piccolo and a water bottle or two. I also snuck in a few rides with a front rack and Microwave Panniers, and it felt equally as stable. In a lot of ways, it’s a safe bet for anyone looking for a drop-bar bikepacking rig for gravel adventures, the occasional road ride, and commuting. Although it performed flawlessly for the majority of my riding, like Neil, I found its limits quickly.

The Touring 920 felt fantastic rolling along gravel roads and tame, wide singletrack. It never felt sluggish and was quite natural zipping along some of the chunky logging roads surrounding Powell River. Unfortunately, its steep head tube angle and high front end made for rough and uncomfortable descents, which only amplified when the road conditions worsened. While modern gravel bikes with more off-road-oriented angles can sail over rough terrain, the Touring 920 falls short. In fact, it was so noticeable that it almost felt as if the Touring 920 had a split personality: a more traditional road-oriented geometry (especially in the front end) juxtaposed with the long wheelbase, big tires, and a touring-friendly build. The end product is great if you’re sticking to primarily gravel roads, but might not deliver if you’re like me and find yourself riding your gravel bike in places where a hardtail mountain bike might be the better tool for the job.

The oddly spaced seat stay bosses are designed to accommodate Decathlon’s rear rack, but it just so happens that two of the three (on each side of the bike) bosses are spaced for standard bottle mounts. They use some beefy 5mm hex bolts to provide the strength to mount the rack, which also means not all bottle/cargo cages will work mounted in this position. My standard King Cage bottle cages didn’t have enough room for the bolts, but my King ManyThing cargo cage just had enough room to squeeze them through. I was a little nervous about running a Nalgene full of water so close to my rear wheel, but in the end, I had no issues and was happy to increase the carrying capacity of the bike without adding the weight of a rack. At the time of writing, Decathlon’s rear rack is out of stock, so finding a cargo cage that works or making use of the standard rack mounts are both great options.

Having the dynamo hub and USB top cap charger all integrated into a stock build is uncommon and great to see. The Shimano Deore XT dynamo hub paired with the budget-friendly Cycle2Charge USB charger is a simple, plug-and-play style charging system and adds a lot of value to the entire bike. I found the USB charger to work best at 20km/hour or faster, and due to its lack of internal buffer battery, it seemed a little finicky at slower speeds, including technical low-speed trails and crawling up steep climbs. To get the most out of the dynamo system, charging a cache battery directly while you ride would be my recommendation.

2021 Riverside Touring 920 Updated and Availability

Decathlon has already announced the 2021 Touring 920 and the majority of the bike remains the same besides a splash of new paint, with some black accents over the same sage green frame colour. The frame, geometry, and build kit all remain the same, so everything you’ve read here still applies to the latest version.

That brings me to availability, which was the biggest concern when the Touring 920 was first announced. For those unfamiliar with the current state of the cycling industry, bikes and components are hard to come by right now, and you can expect inventory to be sporadic throughout this year and into 2022. When I asked Decathlon about Touring 920 availability, they were just as unsure as the rest of the industry seems to be. North American customers can expect to wait until 2022 for the Touring 920, while European customers can expect to see some availability in June, and then a larger restock this fall. They anticipate stock and availability to be more consistent in 2022 across all of their distributors, but what that looks like exactly is unknown. We’ll be sure to update you when we learn more about availability here in North America.

For now, we know bikes will be sold directly through Decathlon, and their Instagram page is the best place to find updates and the latest news. They’ve also got their own bags in the works, which should be available later this summer. It’s worth noting that the Riverside Touring 920 product page on the UK website is being updated, and right now only the French website is live.

• Model / Size Tested: Decathlon Riverside Touring 920 (Size Large)
• Actual Weight As Sent: 27.2 pounds (12.3 kg) with XT pedals
• Place of Manufacture: Taiwan
• Manufacturer’s Details: Decathlon.fr
• Fantastic value
• Well-rounded build
• Comfortable and stable on smooth terrain
• Dynamo hub and charger
• Lots of mounting options
• Limited Availability
• Front end feels too steep and harsh on rough roads
• Quick-release thru-axles aren’t user friendly
• Undergeared for loaded climbs and fast descents

The general consensus online is that the Decathlon Riverside Touring 920 offers a lot of bang for your buck and is a well-executed touring rig, and after spending some time with it, I’d tend to agree. It’s hard to argue with the dynamo-equipped build kit, complete with modern specs like thru-axles, tons of mounting points, and generous tire clearance. Although the geometry doesn’t hit the mark as a do-everything bikepacking bike, it has the potential to be perfect for long days on rolling terrain. And thanks to its big tires and reasonably stable geometry, riders need not shy away from short sections of rough stuff while out riding. It’s close enough to perfect that it’s hard not to like, even if it is better suited to smooth gravel, doubletrack, and pavement.

I’d love to see an updated version with a lower bottom bracket, slightly slacker front end, and a different handlebar—three changes that might make the Touring 920 the versatile do-it-all bikepacking bike it has the potential to be. With that said, Decathlon deserves a big socially distanced high five for designing something unique and purposeful, and I look forward to seeing how the Touring 920 evolves.

Find Neil’s initial first impressions video review below.

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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“BelAZ 75600” – the biggest truck in the former USSR

No comments · Posted by Sergei Rzhevsky in Business , Economics , Photos , Technology

Bachatskiy coal open-cast mine, located in Belovo city ( Kemerovo oblast ) is one of the largest mines of the Kuzbass (total area is about 20 square kilometers, depth – 300 meters). Annual production amounts to more than 8 million 700 thousand tons.

The mine produces fuel for energy and metallurgical industries of Russia and other countries around the world.

The biggest of dump trucks involved in the work is “BelAZ 75600”, which capacity is 320 tons, gross weight – 560 tons. “BelAZ 75600” is the biggest truck in the Commonwealth of Independent States (former USSR countries).

The length of the truck is 14.5 meters, width – 9.25 meters, height – 7.22 meters. The power of the engine is 3500 hp. Photos by Stepanov Slava .

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Tags:  Kemerovo oblast

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