velo trek 2.1

• Specialized
• Bridge Bikeworks
• Brooklyn Bicycle Co.
• Bunch Bikes
• CYCLE OF GOOD
• DALLINGRIDGE
• Diamondback
• Eddy Merckx
• Electric Bike Company
• EVO Bicycles
• Fahrradmanufaktur
• Flyer by Radio Flyer
• iGO Electric
• Intense 951
• JupiterBike
• Lectric eBikes
• LeMond Bicycles
• Lightweight
• View all brands
• Pivot Cycles
• Qualisports
• Quintana Roo
• Rad Power Bikes
• Raleigh Electric
• Riese & Müller
• Rocky Mountain
• Schindelhauer
• State Bicycle Co.
• Surface 604
• Urban Arrow
• Van Nicholas
• VELO DE VILLE
• Vintage Electric
• Yeti Cycles
• YT Industries

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

At a glance

Trek’s 2.1 C boasts Trek’s lightweight 200 Series aluminum frame along with a road-carving, vibration-damping Bontrager carbon fork for a ride as efficient and fast as it is smooth and precise. It’s built with a compact SRAM Apex drivetrain so you always have the perfect gear, dual-pivot brakes for excellent stopping power and Bontrager’s easy-rolling wheelset. Plus, this fine roadster sports a tasty selection of Bontrager components, such as the comfy Affinity seat and Race Lite seatpost. Let the 2.1’s quality, craftsmanship, and responsive ride inspire you to new speeds and distances.

Where To Buy

Specifications

Q: how much is a 2012 trek 2.1.

A 2012 Trek 2.1 is typically priced around $1,430 USD when new. Be sure to shop around for the best price, and also look to the used market for a great deal.

Q: What size 2012 Trek 2.1 should I get?

No comments on this bike yet. Why not be the first?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Want more road bikes in your mailbox?

The latest on road bikes delivered straight to your mailbox.

More General Bikes View All

Orbea Terra M21E

- YOU WON’T KNOW UNLESS YOU GO Of course you’re not lost, you just aren’t quite sure if this road is the quickest route to the next ridge. The weather…

Specialized Diverge Comp Carbon

- Whether your goal is to escape on gravel back roads, far from cars and crowds, or drop the hammer at the front of your favorite gravel race, no bike…

Cervélo Caledonia-5 Red eTap AXS

- The Caledonia-5 was inspired by our own out-the-front-door rides and built for the way we ride bikes. You could call it an "all road" or "endurance" bike, but when…

Deals View All

View all deals, recent posts view all.

What is Road Bike Database?

Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, choosing the right road bike can…

Send Feedback

Have a suggestion? Looking for a bike that's not on Road Bike Database? Or perhaps you've spotted an error?

We'd love to hear from you. Let us know with the form below.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience possible. Learn more.

About Road Bike Database

Explore, search and compare thousands of the world’s best road bikes here on Road Bike Database.

Compare prices, components, reviews, images and more on current and past road bikes. You can even share reviews, comments and questions on road bikes. View and compare a huge selection of bikes from brands such as Cervélo , BMC , Trek , Specialized and more .

We strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information for road bikes on Road Bike Database. If you’ve spotted any issues, please let us know . We also include helpful tools, such as our frame size calculator, to assist you in choosing the right road bike. Bear in mind that these tools serve as a guide and simply provide a general indication. Refer to information provided by your bike manufacturer for the most applicable information for your bike.

Bikes By Brand

Bikes by year, bikes by riding style.

• Electric Road
• folding-bike
• general-road
• general-urban
• long-tail-cargo

Bikes By Wheel Size

Popular bikes.

• 2022 Felt IA Advanced Ultegra Di2
• 2023 Gazelle Orange C7+ Low-Step
• 2022 Vitus Substance CRX-1 HT Gravel
• 2022 Orro Venturi STC SRAM Rival Etap Tailor Made
• 2021 Opus ORPHEO 5
• 2021 Cannondale SystemSix Carbon Ultegra Di2
• 2023 Cannondale SuperSix EVO Carbon 105

Latest Bikes

• 2024 Riese & Müller Delite4 GT touring
• 2024 Riese & Müller Delite4 GT rohloff
• 2024 Riese & Müller Delite4 GT rohloff HS
• 2024 Riese & Müller Delite4 GT vario HS
• 2024 Riese & Müller Delite4 GT vario
• 2024 Riese & Müller Delite4 GT touring HS
• 2024 Riese & Müller Roadster4 Mixte vario HS

• ALL (67 Forums)
• WHEELS & TIRES
• SPECIALIZED
• CYCLOCROSS BIKES
• TIRES & WHEELS

Trek 2.1 Road Bike

Trek's 2.1 boasts a lightweight Alpha Black aluminum frame with a road-carving carbon fork. The hill-conquering Shimano drivetrain and Bontrager's SSR wheelset will have you rolling farther and faster than you thought possible. Plus, it sports a fine selection of Bontrager components, too, including a comfy saddle and a carbon seatpost.

• USER REVIEWS

Speed, turnsagility , weight, gears, haNDLING +++++

NONE SO FAR.

I have had a Trek 7.3 for several years now and after reaearching for a little too long- I decided to go with tyhe trek2.1. ( My local trek deaer went out of his way to explain the bebefits of this bike). vs. the 1.5 which is a Great Bike. This is a great bike and I have done some long rides with it and I am CRAZY about this bike. P. Kinsella Brooklyn N.Y.

Frame, gears, forks, 105 componentry.

Seat, wheels and tyres could be better, though you can probably live with them.

My first serious road bike after riding a cheap steel bike for many years. I ended up buying this bike as it was recommended to me by my LBS. I could have gotten a more expensive bike but I'm glad I purchased a 2.1 - it has proven to be a good choice for a first serious bike. The first thing I noticed was the difference in speed and ease of climbing - it was incredible. Also, because the frame and drivetrain are good, it's viable to upgrade pieces as you go rather than buy a new bike. I am a heavy rider and the stock seat made my tail go numb on long rides (on short rides it wasn't a problem). So I ended up replacing it with a Selle Italia Flite Gel Flow. If you are a light rider or do not plan to go on long rides the stock Bontrager saddle may be fine for you. The back tyre developed some deformity after a few months, so I replaced it with a Continental GP4000s. Then I replaced the front tyre with the same. Rolls beautifully. If I knew then what difference it would make for a relatively low cost I'd have probably changed the tyres straight away. I hadn't planned any further upgrades for a while but I've just picked up some Ksyrium Elites at a bargain price so they are going on next. I anticipate not needing further upgrades for a long time.

Fast, great geometry, light aluminum frame with carbon fork! Love SRAM!

Bontrager wheels and components...

I got my 2012 model 2.1 on october 11'... Black and silver, I love the colors and paint job, very sparkly! The aluminum frame is lighter and stiffer than I predicted. It handles just as well any other carbon bike, since the geometry is basically the same. and of course it's as fast as you want it to go! The down side are the bontrager components wich are all aluminum. I changed the seat post and stem wich made it a bit more comfortable on the long rides. Also, the saddle is standard size so that had to be replaced too... Also, i twisted while sprinting the front 50 teeth compact crankset, that was replaced too with FSA. Now im savig to get a better pair of wheels, not that the bontragers dont roll, but really arent that fast... besides that, the bike is a dream! I love it!

Relatively light weight, responsive aluminum frame, carbon fork and stays, carbon seat post (mine is a 2009). Triple is nice for hilly terrain.

Handle bars, saddle, wheels, tires, front derailleur a bit touchy - not 105, gearing is a bit slow compared to some others' bikes on the triple.

Upgraded with new bars, replaced saddle (stock is too hard and not sized for the individual), wheels are heavy and "double spoke" design - replaced with Mavic Ksyrium Elite, dumped the Bontrager rubber and mounted with Michelin Krylion Carbon tires - the best I've ever used.

everything is great

none that i have found

love this bike have ridden this bike for 3yrs now . excellant ride and handels great did a century on this bike . ride on

Hugs the road. Climbs very well. Light weight Apex groupo

None so far.

Tight in turns and stiff on the flats. Climbs like a spider monkey! H2 ego design is phenominal! On my old bike I had a hard time keeping my posture correct for extended periods of time thus causing my hands to go to sleep. On the 2.1 this is no longer an issue. The Apex groupo takes some getting use to but once you get it down it ROCKS. This is my dream bike!!!

Frame integrity, shifting, positioning.

With a two-ring front, I often long for taller high gearing to give me more top-end speed. Conversely, steep hills can be very tough. Will be investigating the feasibility of changing the set-up to see if I can achieve significant gains without breaking the bank.

My first new road bike in many years. Purchase strongly influenced by a very knowledgeable, easy-going LBS owner. Laid out the pros and cons of various models in comparison with my goals and objectives (long recreational rides and 2-3 triathlons annually). Settled on the 2.1 Alpha. Overall, I'm quite happy with the bike. Will have ridden about 1K miles by the time the season ends here in NJ, including my first sprint tri and the 145 mile one-day Ride to Montauk. Looking forward to next year's events, which include a 208 mile one-day ride. This bike makes these long rides very doable and enjoyable. Whether climbing in the hills or riding the flats, the 2.1 Alpha delivers quite well. It gives the rider great confidence, and allows me to always be at or near the front of the pack. Highly recommend it.

Number one factor was price, I didn't feel like I was being ripped off. The 105 components feel and work very well. Shifting is smooth. Very comfortable ride even on long rides. The bike is also pretty fast, and it makes you want to work at getting better and faster.

Nothing really, maybe better tires.

I upgraded to the Trek 2.1 from a hybrid bike in April '10 and it was the best decision I have ever made. I was worried that I would have back pain as many family members have had pretty bad back pain, but the bike was fit to me and it feels really good and solid. I've logged over 1050 miles on it since April, including a 55 mile and 100K and have not had any major problems with it. I was looking for a bike that would not break the bank but that would last me a while, one which I could upgraded parts as I felt needed and a bike that would be competitive and light. Very easy to adjust seat, removing wheels is a quick task with the quick releases. The bike has a location on the front fork for an integrated computer which is pretty cool but I have not used. The stock seat is not too bad but I have replaced it. I love this bike and it looks like a million bucks!

Reliability, weight, Shimano 105 group, value for price. Perfect bike for strength and endurance training.

Just got back into road bikings in order to help reducing blood glucose levels for Type II Diabetis. Chose the Trek 2.1 as I already have a great Trek hard-tail MB. Couldn't be happier with the 2.1. Great handling characteristics with the H3 set up. Shimano 105 group provides very smooth shifting. The 11-28 cassette and 52-39 crank provides a wide range of training capabilites.

Fast, light, good price point.

Me the rider.

This is my first road bike so I do not have a lot to compare it to. But I am very happy with my purchase. I have put about 200 miles on it so far and rode in one triathalon. It handels well and seems to be a great bike for the money.

Similar Products Used:

Get the latest road bike reviews, news, race results, and much more by signing up for the Roadbikereview Newsletter

Hot Deals See All Hot Deals >>

Get the latest roadbike reviews, news, race results, and much more by signing up for the Roadbikereview Newsletter

• EDITORIAL REVIEWS
• CLASSIFIEDS

ABOUT ROADBIKEREVIEW

• TERMS OF USE
• PRIVACY POLICY
• ADVERTISING

VISIT US AT

© Copyright 2024 VerticalScope Inc. All rights reserved.

• off.road.cc
• Dealclincher
• Fantasy Cycling

Support road.cc

Like this site? Help us to make it better.

• Sportive and endurance bikes
• Gravel and adventure bikes
• Urban and hybrid bikes
• Touring bikes
• Cyclocross bikes
• Electric bikes
• Folding bikes
• Fixed & singlespeed bikes
• Children's bikes
• Time trial bikes
• Accessories - misc
• Computer mounts
• Bike bags & cases
• Bottle cages
• Child seats
• Lights - front
• Lights - rear
• Lights - sets
• Pumps & CO2 inflators
• Puncture kits
• Reflectives
• Smart watches
• Stands and racks
• Arm & leg warmers
• Base layers
• Gloves - full finger
• Gloves - mitts
• Jerseys - casual
• Jerseys - long sleeve
• Jerseys - short sleeve
• Shorts & 3/4s
• Tights & longs
• Bar tape & grips
• Bottom brackets
• Brake & gear cables
• Brake & STI levers
• Brake pads & spares
• Cassettes & freewheels
• Chainsets & chainrings
• Derailleurs - front
• Derailleurs - rear
• Gear levers & shifters
• Handlebars & extensions
• Inner tubes
• Quick releases & skewers
• Energy & recovery bars
• Energy & recovery drinks
• Energy & recovery gels
• Heart rate monitors
• Hydration products
• Hydration systems
• Indoor trainers
• Power measurement
• Skincare & embrocation
• Training - misc
• Cleaning products
• Lubrication
• Tools - multitools
• Tools - Portable
• Tools - workshop
• Books, Maps & DVDs
• Camping and outdoor equipment
• Gifts & misc

The 1.2 is the middle of Trek's three 1 Series aluminium road bikes, sitting between the Shimano Claris-equipped 1.1 (£575) and the 1.5 (£750), which comes with Shimano Tiagra components.

Is it the right bike for you? We've picked out four reasons why it might be, along with a reason that might make you think twice.

1 It provides solid performance with few surprises

The 1.2 puts in a solid performance out on the road, offering a stable, predictable ride, the only real disappointment being the lack of braking power (see below).

Hitting the scales at 9.48kg (20.9lb), the 1.2 isn't as lively as many lighter bikes, but for £650 this is certainly a decent enough weight. Compared to bikes of a similar price, it accelerates well. You'll find a little more flex in the frame and fork than in higher level models in Trek's range, but this is a bike that's well capable of holding its own when you crank up the power.

You could't say that the 1.2 is the fastest climber but it's far from sluggish when things get lumpy. It's helped in its hill-climbing endeavours by a compact chainset (with 50-tooth and 34-tooth chainrings rather than 52 or 53 and 39). Most bikes of this price come with something similar these days. Matched up to an 11-28-tooth cassette, it'll allow you to get up the vast majority of gradients without your knees popping or your lungs bursting, while still providing enough big gears to keep you bowling along quickly on the flat and downhill.

Aluminium frames have a reputation for feeling harsh but that's a gross generalisation. Some are jarring – as some carbon frames are – but plenty aren't. This bike is certainly comfortable enough for racking up the big miles.

For a start, it comes in Trek's H2 fit. That requires a brief explanation. Compared to Trek's H1 fit, H2 has a taller head tube: 3cm taller in the case of our 58cm test model. Why? It puts you into a more upright riding position with less strain on your lower back and neck. You could achieve a similar position by adding a bunch of headset spacers on an H1 bike, but if you want your bars at that height, you're better off going for an H2 fit because the front end will be stiffer and the handling will be better.

The Bontrager Race VR-C alloy handlebar has a shallower drop than usual too: 124mm rather than the 145mm you get on Bontrager's Race Lite Classic, for example. That means it's that much easier to get down on the drops. A lot of people have a bar with a deep drop and rarely take their hands off the hoods.

The other reason for the comfort is that the 1.2 is inherently pretty smooth. Sure, there are plenty of bikes out there that will filter our more road vibration but this one does a decent enough job on that front. Swapping the 23mm tyres for 25s would add more comfort but this bike isn't crying out for them by any means.

The Bontrager Gel Cork bar tape provides good cushioning for your hands and the Bontrager Affinity 1 saddle has plenty of padding too. Truth be told, I found it a little too soft, verging on squidgy, but everyone has their own taste when it comes to saddles.

2 You get a neat, well-proven frame and fork

All three bikes in the 1 Series share the same 100 Series Alpha Aluminium frame. It's fairly busy looking with a squared off upper edge to the down tube that makes it resemble that of Trek's more costly Madone.

The top tube slopes towards the seat tube junction and tapers down as it does so, and slim seatstays provide compliance at the back.

You get mounts for a mudguard and a rack back there too. They'll be useful if you want to ride the bike year round and perhaps carry stuff to and from work on a daily commute.

You don't get the oversized bottom bracket or tapered head tube that are regular features designed to add stiffness to higher-end performance bikes, but this is a £650 bike and the frame is good for the money. The welds are pretty tidy throughout and the same can be said of the paint job.

The fork is Trek's own with carbon blades and an alloy steerer. Like the frame, it comes with eyelets for fitting mudguards that will save a lot of faffing.

It's worth noting that the Trek 1.2 is available in eight sizes from 47cm up to 62cm. That range will cover nearly everyone.

3 Shimano's Sora shifters and mechs are excellent for the money

Nine-speed Sora is Shimano's fifth tier road groupset (if you don't count the electronic variants) and it offers fantastic value for money.

Back in the olden days (before last year), you changed gear on Sora by pushing the brake lever to the side or by using a small thumb lever on the side of the shifter body, depending on the direction you wanted to shift.

Now, though, Sora levers are Dual Control, so instead of that thumb lever, there's a lever tucked behind the brake lever. It's the same design that Shimano use right up to top-level Dura-Ace and it's a big improvement, making it far easier to change gear from the drops.

Resting your hands on the hoods is comfortable and there's a little gear indicator on the top of each of the levers that you might find useful. I can't say I ever checked them – I just couldn't get into the habit – but they're there if you want to.

Whereas the gear cables run underneath the bar tape on Shimano's higher level groupsets, they head out from the side of the levers with Sora and loop around to the frame in the fresh air. That's certainly not a problem from a functional point of view, although visually it's a less tidy way of doing things. That's being picky, though. Sora shifting has taken a massive leap forward with this latest design. It works very much like the highest level offerings from Shimano, just adding a little weight. Even there, the difference isn't massive.

Trek don't give you a complete Sora groupset here, just the shifters and mechs. The chainset is FSA Vero, a square taper design that does its job just fine, and the brakes, as mentioned, are unbranded.

Most other big brand bikes at this price, such as the Giant Defy 3 (£649) and the Felt F95 (£649), have Shimano Sora components too. It's worth comparing the spec sheets to see exactly how they match up, but don't buy a bike solely on that basis.

4 Bontrager's wheels and other components are good, reliable kit

The wheels are made up from Bontrager's own alloy hubs, containing cup and cone (rather than cartridge) bearings, and Tubeless Ready http://www.bontrager.com/technology/why_tubeless_ready rims. That means you can run the wheels without inner tubes at some point in the future, although you'll need to upgrade to Tubeless Ready tyres first.

The tyres that come fitted as standard are Bontrager's T1s (700 x 23). They're some pretty hefty rubber, made for durability rather than all-out speed, but they're reasonably resistant to punctures and they hold the road well even in damp conditions.

I had no problems at all with the wheels during the month-long test period. They're not the lightest wheels ever, taking some coaxing up to speed, but they're still as round and as true as they were out of the box, and there's a lot to be said for trouble-free operation. Fast wheels aren't so fast when you're standing on the side of the road trying to remove a broken spoke.

Most of the rest of the kit is no-nonsense stuff from Bontrager too, the handlebar, stem and seatpost being reliable alloy options and the Affinity 1 saddle providing at least as much cushioning as most people will want.

And the compromises

There are no two ways about it, the 1.2's brakes are disappointing. Trek have put the Shimano Sora theme to one side here and specced nameless dual pivot callipers that lack bite. Don't get me wrong, they're consistent and they'll stop you, just not as quickly as you might like. You have to engage the brakes for a bit longer than normal or pull the levers a bit harder to get down to your desired speed.

You adjust to this within a ride or two and don't really think about it until you ride with people who have better brakes on their bikes, or jump back on to a bike with better brakes yourself. Then you're struck by the contrast.

Swapping the brake pads helps, but the bottom line is that these brakes are a compromise to make a price point and, for me, they're the weakest aspect of the entire bike.

Other compromises? There's nothing that really stands out. Trek offer a decent all-round package here.

The Trek 1.2 is a very good bike for the money. The frame and fork are sound, reliable options and the Sora shifters and mechs are better than anything previously available for this kind of cash. They're a great example of the benefits of trickle down technology.

Yes, if you pay a couple of hundred pounds more you'll get a lighter bike that leaps into life more eagerly when you up the intensity for a sprint or tough climb, but that's always the way. As it is, the Trek 1.2 is a very able road bike that'll reward your efforts with decent speed, and it's comfortable enough to ride all day long. The fact that it comes with mudguard and rack eyelets increases its versatility, so you can use it as a year-round workhorse if that's what you're after.

We'd have no hesitation recommending this bike for someone after their first proper road bike, or for anyone else looking for plenty of value.

Very good value, ideal for anyone looking for a first real road bike, with just the brakes as a low point

road.cc test report

Make and model: Trek 1.2

Size tested: 58

About the bike

State the frame and fork material and method of construction. List the components used to build up the bike.

Frame 100 Series Alpha Aluminium

Fork Trek carbon road

Sizes 47, 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62cm

Front hub Bontrager alloy

Rear hub Bontrager alloy

Rims Bontrager Tubeless Ready

Tyres Bontrager T1, 700x23c

Shifters Shimano Sora, 9 speed

Front derailleur Shimano Sora

Rear derailleur Shimano Sora

Crank FSA Vero, 50/39/30 (triple)

Cassette SRAM PG-950, 11-28, 9 speed

Pedals Nylon body w/alloy cage, toe-clip/strap

Chain KMC X9

Bontrager Affinity 1

Seatpost Bontrager Alloy, 2-bolt head, 27.2mm, 8mm offset

Handlebar Bontrager Race, VR-C, 31.8mm

Stem Bontrager Elite Blendr, w/computer & light mounts, 31.8mm, 7 degree

Headset 1-1/8" semi-cartridge bearings

Brakeset Alloy dual-pivot

Accessories

Bar tape Bontrager gel cork tape

Tell us what the bike is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about the bike?

Trek say: "1 Series aluminium road bikes feature the same aero shaping and race-ready detail as our top-end bikes. They're strong, light, and built to fly over the pavement," [Trek, being from the US, use "pavement" to mean the surface of a road rather than a path].

Frame and fork

Tell us about the build quality and finish of the frame and fork?

It's a tried and tested frame built to a high quality. The same goes for the carbon leg/alloy steerer fork.

Tell us about the materials used in the frame and fork?

The frame is made from aluminium: what Trek call 100 Series Alpha Aluminium.

Tell us about the geometry of the frame and fork?

The 1.2 is built to Trek's H2 geometry that I've explained in the body of the review. Essentially, it's slightly more relaxed than a full-on aggressive race position, but it's still speed orientated.

How was the bike in terms of height and reach? How did it compare to other bikes of the same stated size?

It's a little taller at the front end than a traditional low and stretched road bike.

Riding the bike

Was the bike comfortable to ride? Tell us how you felt about the ride quality.

I found it comfortable both in terms of ride position and ride quality. It's certainly a long way from being a bone shaker.

Did the bike feel stiff in the right places? Did any part of the bike feel too stiff or too flexible?

It's not mega-stiff but it's not too flexy either.

Which components had the most effect (good or bad) on the bike's comfort? would you recommend any changes?

I found the saddle a touch too squidgy for my taste, but I'd rather that than too firm.

In all of these marks, I'm comparing the bike to similarly priced alternatives.

The drivetrain

Wheels and tyres, your summary.

Did you enjoy riding the bike? Yes.

Would you consider buying the bike? It would certainly be on my shortlist if I was after a bike at about this price.

Would you recommend the bike to a friend? I'd recommend it should be on their shortlist too.

Anything further to say about the bike in conclusion?

Nearly all big brand bikes at this price have these features: aluminium frame, fork with carbon legs and alloy steerer, an incomplete Shimano Sora groupset (chainset and brakes being the most frequent omissions), in-house aluminium handlebar, stem and seatpost. If you simply compare spec lists, you'll see that the 1.2 comes out better than some and not quite as well as others.

However, we'd caution against making a decision based solely on a comparison of spec sheets. We've not reviewed all of the 1.2's chief rivals, but we can tell you that this bike will provide you with a very good all-round performance, the brakes being the only real low point.

Overall rating: 8 /10

About the tester

Age: 43   Height: 190cm   Weight: 75kg

I usually ride:    My best bike is:

I've been riding for: Over 20 years   I ride: Most days   I would class myself as: Expert

I regularly do the following types of riding: commuting, club rides, sportives, general fitness riding,

Help us to fund our site

We’ve noticed you’re using an ad blocker. If you like road.cc, but you don’t like ads, please consider subscribing to the site to support us directly. As a subscriber you can read road.cc ad-free, from as little as £1.99. 

If you don’t want to subscribe, please turn your ad blocker off. The revenue from adverts helps to fund our site.

Help us to bring you the best cycling content

If you’ve enjoyed this article, then please consider subscribing to road.cc from as little as £1.99. Our mission is to bring you all the news that’s relevant to you as a cyclist, independent reviews, impartial buying advice and more. Your subscription will help us to do more.

Mat has been in cycling media since 1996, on titles including BikeRadar, Total Bike, Total Mountain Bike, What Mountain Bike and Mountain Biking UK, and he has been editor of 220 Triathlon and Cycling Plus. Mat has been road.cc technical editor for over a decade, testing bikes, fettling the latest kit, and trying out the most up-to-the-minute clothing. He has won his category in Ironman UK 70.3 and finished on the podium in both marathons he has run. Mat is a Cambridge graduate who did a post-grad in magazine journalism, and he is a winner of the Cycling Media Award for Specialist Online Writer. Now over 50, he's riding road and gravel bikes most days for fun and fitness rather than training for competitions.

Add new comment

13 comments.

I'm riding this bike now for over 6 years. Inexpensive when bought for  €600. Needed maintenance about 2 years ago which was about €400 (new wheelset, cassette/chain/cabling etc). I've replaced the 700x23-tyres by 700x25-tyres a long time ago without changing anything else. Works like a charm.

Great value for the money but brakes could indeed be better. Meanwhile looking to add a new bike (and use this one solely on the Tacx) with disc-brakes.

• Log in or register to post comments

The current Trek 1 Series bikes have plenty of clearance for fixed mudguards, even with a 25mm tyre. The 2013 1.2 had little clearance, and this was because Trek used the 2 series frame for that particular year. I'm guessing evo_playa has one of these. Agree that SKS Raceblade Long guards are great. The lack of availability is due to a redesign - SKS are developing the new version to allow for bikes with disc brakes. I gather they won't be available until this autumn at the earliest. UK distributors sold out of the old versions months ago.

Seems like a comparable spec and set up to other value bikes. Agree that even low spec bikes are good and has recently made me question my prior choice of 105 or nothing. Anyone know if Claris is any good ? Always found the Trek styling a bit bland but this one looks ok. The latest B twin road bikes seem anazing value if your in the market for a new bike. www.tinpony.co.uk/shop

Tin Pony wrote: Seems like a comparable spec and set up to other value bikes. Agree that even low spec bikes are good and has recently made me question my prior choice of 105 or nothing. Anyone know if Claris is any good ? Always found the Trek styling a bit bland but this one looks ok. The latest B twin road bikes seem anazing value if your in the market for a new bike. www.tinpony.co.uk/shop

The 8 speed Sora front and rear Derailleurs on my Trek are long since worn out and were replaced with Claris just before the winter kicked in. It works really smooth with no problems - even on the old Sora shifters with thumb button.

I've had the 2011 1.1 with shimano 2300 (remember that?) for just over 4 years now, and it certainly scrubs up well. Even with just 2300 and a different wheelset I've raced on it for a couple of years to some success, it certainly doesn't feel like it holds me back, which is very impressive for such a cheap machine. In fact, I like it enough to complete the change to 5700 groupset in the spring.

I can't say I ever had a problem with the brake calipers, and I can't tell the difference between the alloy calipers and the Shimano long drop calipers having swapped them out- they are certainly good enough.

However, I'm not a fan of the H2 fit with the massive head tube- I hate long head tubes and was lucky to get mine before they were introduced.

Excellent winter trainer and commuter. My 2007 Trek 1.2 is still going strong - it's had a few minor changes but still has the Sora 8 speed with thumb button - oh and a pannier rack!

It's still a lovely bike to ride and recommended first road bike.

Not a racing bike. Sit up and beg.

WHY wouldn't they put sensible 25mm tyres on the bike?

Mike T. wrote: WHY wouldn't they put sensible 25mm tyres on the bike?

Quite. I can't really understand why they'd have clearances so tight, seems unecessary. It may be that 25mm tyres would work with some mudguards already mentioned, but probably not full guards that also help keep crud off the chainset especially in winter.

Word of warning though, if it is like my Trek 1.2 with the carbon fork you will be lucky to get a fixed mudguard that fits even though the bike has mudguard eyelets.

Clearance on the front is not good and i had to end up using Crud mudguards for the front wheel.

craigr wrote: Word of warning though, if it is like my Trek 1.2 with the carbon fork you will be lucky to get a fixed mudguard that fits even though the bike has mudguard eyelets. Clearance on the front is not good and i had to end up using Crud mudguards for the front wheel.

As ever, SKS Raceblade Longs. Sorted.

KiwiMike wrote: craigr wrote: Word of warning though, if it is like my Trek 1.2 with the carbon fork you will be lucky to get a fixed mudguard that fits even though the bike has mudguard eyelets. Clearance on the front is not good and i had to end up using Crud mudguards for the front wheel.

Tried quite a few including SKS chromeplastic ones.

edit: tracked them down, looks like instock here : http://www.tredz.co.uk/.SKS-Race-Blade-Long-Mudguard-Set_51833.htm

Fairly simple and inexpensive to swap out the substandard brake calipers.

I upgraded my Trek 1.1 to Shimano non series long drop brake calipers and the difference in braking was amazing.

Latest Comments

Just found this amazing item on AliExpress. Check it out!...

I think that's debatable. It's certainly more socialist in its state ownership of some major parts of the economy, workers' representation and the...

*bursts back into the room hours after the conversation has moved on*...

Damn, that sucks. I generally feel pretty relaxed with my bike on Avanti trains because the compartment is locked and I don't have to worry about...

They are ugly, and presumably require registration to use them. But the argument "it should be car parking instead" is absurd. Surely a camera and...

It's endemic now. Watched a skip lorry jump two reds within 100m on my commute this morning. No intention of stopping.

And if they park on the cycle lane, they're still impacting the flow of traffic.  Different traffic - two-wheeled, human-powered traffic rather...

I strugle to think other as cool bikes as this. If my city was flatter and I fitter, I would drool over it....

If RoadCC and similar specialist mass media organs were serious about being not just ethical about climate change factors but about the whole...

Hellish! Barely used, clearly dangerous, slowing competent cyclists down while pandering to the clueless, a serious threat to pedestrians, won't...

Related Reviews

Orbea Orca Aero M10iLTD 2024

Stunningly fast without sacrificing versatility, handling or comfort

Boardman SLR 8.6

Comfortable, lively ride, an excellent gear range and well-chosen components – one of the best entry-level bikes you can buy

Fara F/Road

Quick, nimble, fun, an impressive ride quality and excellent comfort – and I think it looks stunning

Factor O2 VAM

A master of climbing – but a bike that's also incredible fun and extremely capable everywhere else

• MAGAZINE OFFERS
• BIKE INSURANCE
• Best Products
• Maintenance
• Accessories
• Long-Term Reviews
• BikeRadar Podcast
• First Look Friday
• Bike of the Week
• Tech Features
• Routes and Rides
• Bike Galleries
• BikeRadar Bargains
• Buyer's Guides
• Fitness & Training
• Sizing & Fit
• Mountain Biking UK
• Cycling Plus

Trek Madone 2.1 review

Alloy edition of a famous carbon name

Tom Ballard / Immediate Media

Tom Ballard

Thanks in part to its association with That Texan and a long pedigree of superbly performing bike models, the Madone name is one of the best-known in road cycling. It’s perhaps a bit of gamble then for Trek to slap the branding of its most famous carbon bike on an aluminium-framed machine – but has it paid off?

The sub-£1,000 price point is one of the most hotly contested. With an update to 11-speed Shimano 105 shifters and a price drop to £900 for 2015, the Madone 2.1 holds its own against online-only competition. It’s a solid bike for those who aspire to own the Madone label without handing over £5,900 for the carbon version.

Related: Best bikes under £1,000

• Highs: Decent gearing, handles well, do-it-all geometry, stiff frame
• Lows: Chatters over rough roads, cut-price brakes, a bit heavy

Ride and handling: buzzy but reliable

In Trek’s world, we’ve got the Domane for comfort, the Emonda for climbing and the Madone for racing fast – but the aluminium 2.1 isn’t really a flat-back, head-down racer. The H2 geometry means a taller head-tube (150mm for our 54cm size) for a more upright position than the carbon H1 models. It’s comfortable without stretching, you can tuck low easily and you don’t feel like you’re going backwards when sitting up.

It's officially a Madone, but not as we know it

This means a do-it-all setup that enables you to get on with riding and offers assured control in almost every scenario. Whether you're whipping around tight bends, holding stable in crosswinds or adjusting a line when flashing downhill, the 2.1 offers fuss-free handling that’s neutral and reliable.

This isn't to damn it with faint praise though. Lack of excitement when it comes to handling isn’t a bad thing – you can hold plenty of speed around corners, descend with confidence and relax to enjoy riding.

Unfortunately, the ride quality can endanger that fun at times though. We’ve got a feeling Trek had an image of the bike zipping along a perfectly smooth highway when the 2.1’s frame was designed.

Take the Madone for a spin on good roads it feels sensational, holding its speed well despite the resistance of fairly heavy wheels that make accelerations suffer. Whether or not the internal cabling and flat-backed KVF (Kammtail Virtual Foil) down tube shape aid aerodynamics, it certainly feels fast and satisfying when you’re pushing towards a PB.

Internal cabling is impressive at this price

On the other hand, rougher surfaces really dent the fun, the carbon blades of the tapered fork doing little to calm the chattering vibrations through the frame at the front end. Descending on imperfect lanes proved the biggest worry, with jolts forcing bum and saddle separation and the continued staccato vibrations then battering the backside as the bike skittered downwards – even with only 110psi in the tyres.

This isn't going to happen every time you take on a descent, but it’s a pity that the well-behaved and otherwise planted handling can sometimes come unstuck because of this lack of ride smoothness, creating a tense riding experience. To try and combat this we’d put some suppler 25mm tyres and a carbon seatpost on the upgrade list.

On the uphills though – terrain upon which the Madone performs well for a bike weighing 8.9kg – it's a refreshingly different story. Especially when riding hard, the 2.1’s stiffness gives a quick response and unhampered power transfer when stamping out authority on climbs. With the spot-on geometry and wide gear range, it’s just as adept at helping you spin to a summit too. The front end feels light – and even a bit twitchy with hands on the tops – and while you can feel the weight a bit at the back end, there’s no sense of frustration that the bike’s holding you back.

Frame: fancily formed aluminium

The Madone 2.1 uses Trek’s top-grade Alpha 200-series aluminium, which thanks to hydroforming techniques has allowed for the flattened top tube and KVF down tube shapes, the latter of which being essentially an aerofoil shape that’s had the back cut off, increasing stiffness and decreasing weight while aiding aerodynamics.

The KVF shaping on the aluminium Madone takes its cue from its carbon-frame brother

The flat shapes also give a smooth, clean look more akin to a carbon frame, though the overall look and shaping remains a far cry from the carbon Madone. The rest of the tubing is a more traditional cylindrical shape and is welded fairly inconspicuously. The oversized BB86.5 bottom bracket means no external bearing cups and allows the wider BB junction that aids stiffness to give the bike its punchy power transfer.

The gear cabling is internally routed, entering at the top of the down tube and exiting at the bottom bracket for the rear derailleur. The rear brake takes a more conventional course under the top tube. This isn’t really too much of a disappointment – as any internal routing at this price is a bonus – but it just reminds you far removed the alloy Madone is from its illustrious namesake.

The head tube is tapered for increased front-end stiffness, which was remarkably solid throughout testing. The accompanying fork features carbon blades, complete with KVF trailing edges, and an alloy steerer – standard at this price point. It also includes a built-in SpeedTrap module for transmitting speed and distance data to a head unit via a Trek computer sensor and spoke-mounted magnet. In addition the 2.1 comes complete with mudguard mounts on fork and frame.

Equipment: savvy selections for 11-speed value

For 2015, the Madone 2.1 makes the leap to 11-speed with Shimano 105 shifters, allowing a wide, largely gap-free gear range when accompanied by the matching 11-28 105 cassette. There’s no skimping on the derailleurs either, which are 105 too, though there’s an RS500 five-bolt 50/34 compact crankset rather than the gorgeous new four-bolt design that’s trickled down from Dura-Ace and Ultegra. Shifting performance was flawless throughout and until Shimano’s high-end groups go 12-speed, there’s little to recommend them over these workhorse components.

Our only criticism of the drivetrain is in the internal BB bearings, which became sticky after a few weeks, stopping the cranks from turning as freely as they should. The brakes are also a bit disappointing, the un-branded calipers lacking the power of Shimano’s versions.

11-speed 105 on a £900 bike shows Trek's buying power

The 2.1 is supplied with Bontrager’s TLR tubeless-ready wheels, which have low-profile, slightly rounded rims that are 19mm wide. Like the rest of the 2.1, they’re solid and free from flex, but aren’t particularly light and didn’t do us any favours in drag sprints from standing, taking a while to get up to speed. They’re a good set of training wheels, but the bike could really fly on the flats and hills with an upgrade to a lighter set.

The Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite tyres, meanwhile, are 23mm wide and seemed fairly puncture prone, causing us grief on a few occasions.

The remainder of the finishing kit also comes from Trek’s component brand. The simple alloy seatpost has a red anodised clamp that matches the seat collar, gear hanger, odd headset spacer and stem top cap, giving a classy look. The stem itself is white to match the frame, but comes with a blue anodised faceplate. The bars are standard 31.8mm with a comfy compact drop, wrapped in white gel cork tape, which quickly became grubby.

The Bontrager Paradigm 1 saddle features a central cutout and was surprisingly comfy despite its rather squidgy padding, though an upgrade to something slightly harder might benefit riders going long.

So is the 2.1 really a Madone? No. It’s a fine aluminium bike that shows off Trek’s usual quality, but it’s so distant from the carbon models that it’s not really comparable. Sadly, the fact it is branded as such – inviting unfair comparisons – doesn’t do the 2.1 any favours.

When it comes down to it, the occasionally harsh ride is the one characteristic that poses the biggest question for potential buyers – do you really need the benefit of internal cabling and a more aero down tube for the kind of riding you’re doing?

If you’re going to be racing and want every ounce of power you can get your legs on, it may well be the winning choice, though it’s up against stiff competition from the likes of Giant and Boardman at this price point. If you want all-day, long-ride comfort or value distance over speed go for Trek’s Domane instead.

Check out the gallery above for more pictures of the Trek Madone 2.1.

Looking for a new bike? Get more buying advice from fellow riders in our forum. Head here to join the discussion.

Share this article

• Terms & Conditions
• Subscribe to our magazines
• Manage preferences

• Global search
• The selection of bargains
• Refurbished bikes
• Electric mountain bike VTTAE
• Road bikes and gravel
• VAE electric bikes
• Reporting a bike theft
• The Refurbished
• Publish an article
• Publish an event
• Road bike forum
• Forum Gravel
• Refurbished bikes forum

VSV Club Store

• Register your store
• Bicycle shops map

TREK 2.1 Alpha

• Contact GG56
• Announcement
• Contact Seller
• Call the seller
• Where is the bike
• Leave comments

Picture gallery

Descriptions

• Model: TREK 2.1 Alpha
• Road bike type: Race - Without electric assistance
• Frame size: 52 (M)
• Frame material: aluminum material
• Gear switch mechanical
• Transmission brand: Shimano
• Transmission model ultegra
• Front plate type: Triple
• Wheel size: 700 C
• Wheel material: aluminum material
• Braking: pad brakes

Additional Descriptions

For sale used road bike Trek 2.1 Alpha from 2012

2 water bottle holders

Bike that has never had a fall

Compter and pump Giant

Very well maintained bike

Sale and price

• Type of sale: used bike
• Price: 600 €
• Good condition

Need support

Sébastien Galifier,  founder of VENDRE-SON-VELO.COM Need information about your order, payment and delivery…

Delivery between individuals

Delivery… the green solution, less carriers less pollution....

We are committed to making your bike selling experience as smooth as possible. Thanks to our partnership with Cocolis, we offer you a practical, economical and environmentally friendly delivery solution. 

Where is the bike located

• Region: France

Allaire, Morbihan, France

• Itinerary: See on the map keyboard_arrow_right

Bike-partner.com

Here, your preferences are yours alone, reservation form, reserve this bike today.

In order to finalize your purchase from our seller, please provide the information below. You will be contacted directly by the seller, professional or individual, to finalize your purchase. This step will allow you to discuss details, payment terms or hand-to-hand settlement and delivery options.

• Booking number #90565
• Purpose of reservation: TREK 2.1 Alpha
• State: Good condition

Seller mode

Need informations

Product image.

• No comments yet.

add a comment

Leave a comment · cancel reply.

You must be connected To post a comment.

You may also be interested in these ads

Trek domane 4.5.

• Add to your selection
• Price: € 1100

Trek Domane SL7 Carbon Di2 11S

• Domane SL7 Carbon Di2 11V
• Price: € 3599
• Refurbished bike

Trek Domane 2.3

• Price: € 1209

Trek Emonda SL 6 Carbon

• Emonda SL 6 Carbon
• Price: € 2939

Trek Emonda SL5 Carbon AXS 12V

• Emonda SL5 Carbon AXS 12V
• Price: € 3899

Trek Emonda SL6 Carbon Di2 11V

• Emonda SL6 Carbon Di2 11V
• Price: € 4199

Trek Emonda SL6 Carbon AXS 12V

• Emonda SL6 Carbon AXS 12V

Trek Elmonda SL6 2020 7,3kg

• Price: € 1350

Trek DOMANE AL 4

• DOMANE AL 4 DISC GLOSS TREK BLACK
• Price: € 1600

VENDRE-SON-VELO.COM

Secure payment

Made in switzerland.

You look for...

©2024 Vendre-son-velo.com | All rights reserved.

• Share via...

Request for personalized advice

Sebastien Galifier Founder of VENDRE-SON-VELO.COM

Hiplok DX Lock 89.90 79.90 €

High performance u padlock.

Cookie settings

With the cursor you can activate or deactivate different types of cookies:, this website, this site will not be.

• Essential: Remember your cookie permission setting
• Essential: Allow session cookies
• Essential: Gather information you enter into a newsletter and other contact forms across all pages
• Essential: Keep track of what you put in your shopping cart
• Essential: Authenticate that you are connected to your compyou user
• Essential: Remember the language version you selected
• Remember your login details
• Feature: Remember social media settings
• Functionality: Remember the selected region and country
• Analysis: Keep track of your visited pages and the interaction carried out
• Analysis: Keep track of your location and region based on your IP number
• Analysis: Keep track of the time spent on each page
• Analysis: Increase the data quality of statistical functions
• Advertising: Adapt information and advertising to your interests based, for example, on content you have visited previously. (Currently we do not use targeting or targeting cookies)
• Advertising: Collect personally identifiable information such as name and location
• Functionality: Remember social media settings Functionality: Remember selected region and country

Javascript est désactivé dans votre navigateur. Pour une meilleure expérience sur notre site, assurez-vous d’activer JavaScript dans votre navigateur.

Jusqu'au 30 avril, Primeau Vélo vous offre la livraison gratuite à travers le Canada! Tous les détails ici.

• Sélecteur de vélo
• Trouvez un magasin
• Équipe cycliste
• Mon tableau de bord
• Mes commandes
• Ma liste de souhaits
• Magasiner par marques

Résultats 1 - 12 de 373

• Nom du produit
• 12 par page
• 24 par page
• 36 par page
• Vous lisez actuellement la page 1
• Page Suivant

Les vélos Trek sont aux devants du développement des vélos de Route , de Montagne et de Gravel . Parmis sa gamme, on y retrouve des vélos électriques à vendre . Trek offre également une vaste gamme de vélos hybrides et pour enfants , pour tous les budgets. Des modèles populaires comme le Émonda et le Madone sont des pilliers de la performance , alors que les Fuel EX   et Remedy sont le standard de l'industrie pour s'attaquer aux pistes de vélo de montagne. 

Primeau Vélo est le détaillant Trek #1 au Canada . Laissez-nous vous aider à trouver votre prochain vélo Trek , que ce soit sur notre boutique en ligne ou dans une de nos boutiques de vélo à travers le Québec . 

• Composantes 118
• Outils et Accessoires 22
• Idées Cadeaux 37
• Produits vedettes 3
• Vêtements 35
• Entretien 1
• TREKFEST 155

Politique de retour facile en 60 jours

Entreprise canadienne  aucuns frais de douane

Le plus grand choix de marques au Canada

Acheter en ligne, ramasser en magasin

Trek Bikes - The world's best bikes and cycling gear

Online bike shopping made easy

Your perfect bike may already be in a store near you. Browse local inventory online for the fastest availability.

Upon arrival, your bike will be assembled by certified bicycle technicians and made ready to pick up or deliver to your home.

If you’re not in love with your bike within the first thirty days, we will take it back without any additional charges or hassle.

Your local bike shop has the knowledge, products, and expertise to help you get the most out of your new bike.

Back-to-back bike of the year

Slash - 2023 Bike of the Year

Fuel ex - 2022 bike of the year.

We’re a different kind of bike company

Pre-owned bikes, certified awesome by Trek

Red Barn Refresh, where pre-owned bikes get another chance to ride.

No time to waste

We’re changing the business of bikes

Trek is a 2023 Fortune 100 Best Company to Work For!

Looking for a great place to work.

Our mission Trek started in a small Wisconsin barn in 1976, but our founders always saw something bigger. Decades later, we're on a mission to make our world a better place to live and ride. We build only products we love, provide incredible hospitality to our customers, and change the world by getting more people on bikes.

• General Road
• Rider Notes

2011 Trek 1.5

An aluminum frame general road bike with mid-range components and rim brakes.

For This Bike

View more similar bikes →

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.

Similar Bikes

(descending)

Add custom gearing

Last updated June 29 Not listed for 2,487 days