Trek Madone 5.2 Road Bike

The Trek road bike line is excellent

The Trek road bike line is excellent. A beginner starting with even a Trek 1.2 can be competitive in road races and triathlons. For those who want to go faster - and almost all decent riders do - the Trek Madone series is a step up into carbon that yields great results.

Switching from an aluminum frame, entry level bike like the 1.2 to the Madone series is an amazing experience. Using the 5.2 for comparison, a bike in the middle of the Madone range and priced at around $3,200, it is clear what a difference the carbon and components make. It is also worth noting that those are the only differences in the Trek line. All of their road bikes use the Madone geometry, so you are paying for material and components as you step up.

The Madone road bikes are fast, light, and responsive. The 5.2 features Shimano Ultegra components. The shifting is extremely smooth - a big upgrade from the 1.2 and other entry level bikes. The cables are also routed through the frame, making the bike more aerodynamic. The carbon is stiff, but not uncomfortable; it helps the rider really feel at one with the bike.

Newer riders should also note that the crank of the Madone road bikes have only two gears (a 50/34) compared to three on the 1.2 and other entry level bikes. If you ride on flat roads, you will not notice the difference. If you have hills in your rides, the missing small gear will become immediately apparent. The Madone does have the option of a 52/39/30 triple geared crank, but this is not the default equipment.

Our unscientific comparison, looking at one rider's improvement between using a Trek 1.2 and a Trek Madone 5.2, showed a significant improvement. Comparing the average speed over a month before getting the Madone and after showed an improvement of 0.6 miles per hour.

If you are in the market for a good road bike with a budget in the mid- to high-two thousands, the Madones are a great place to start. They are fast, responsive, and take full advantage of the carbon frame and upgraded components to improve performance.

by: Gary Nolan

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