trek procaliber rsl 2018

Trek Procaliber 9.9 SL Race Shop Limited Review

How does a pro-level mountain bike from the XC World Cup compete against a gravel bike? Is it the better choice when the tarmac ends? We tested the Trek Procaliber 9.9 SL Race Shop Limited to find out.

Here you’ll find our current group test on the best gravel bike .

Despite a suspension fork, wide tires, 29″ wheels, and a whole bunch of mountain bike components, the 18.5″ frame size of the Procaliber weighs in at just 9.02 kg. Light enough to put the € 7,999 Trek Procaliber 9.9 SL right in the middle of our gravel test-field. Sure you can get even lighter XC racers, but we all know that weight isn’t everything – within reason.

The IsoSpeed technology is the standout feature of the Procaliber. As a roadie you may have seen this already on the Madone and the Domane. An alloy pivot allows for decoupling of the seat tube from the top tube and seatstays, providing for more vertical flex and added riding comfort. The almond-shaped taper in the lower part of the seat tube is supposed to provide for even more comfort. All this sounds great in theory, but in practice we weren’t able to fully appreciate the perks of the IsoSpeed technology – and this really depends on the riding style; the IsoSpeed technology only shows its benefits when riding seated. While roadies tend to steam through the pavé of the Paris-Roubaix in the saddle, most mountain bikers spend far less time seated. This means mountain bikers might enjoy the benefits of the IsoSpeed on technical uphills, but will eventually get out of the saddle when the climbs get harsher. In addition, the bigger volume of mountain bike tyres also puts a limit to the efficiency and purpose of this technology.

Despite not being as stiff as the Trek Crockett 7 Disc cyclocross bike, the Procaliber 9.9 SL sprints swiftly when accelerating. The light DT Swiss XMC 1200 carbon wheels combined with the lightly-treaded 2.2” Bontrager XR1 Team Issue tires roll incredibly well on the gravel, offering a great blend of comfort and traction. Only on damp and soft surfaces do the narrow shoulder knobs result in imprecise cornering and poor traction on climbs. In these conditions the narrow cyclocross tires of the Trek Crockett dig much deeper into the ground. Where the Procaliber definitely shines is on the uphills. It makes any sort of climb feel effortless thanks to the broad range of the twelve-speed SRAM Eagle groupset with a huge 10-50 cassette and an incredible 500% range. However on even terrain and gravel descents the 34 t chainring quickly runs out of steam.

The biggest concern voiced by our test crew was the Trek’s poor steering precision. The reason for this is the combination of the relatively soft carbon frame, rather soft carbon wheels, and the slender construction of the 100 mm Fox Factory 32 Float fork. All of which results in little torsional-stiffness. The step-shaped recess on the lower fork leg, which creates space for the brake rotor and gives the Fox 32 the “Step-Cast” name, is proof that the fork was designed at the limit of its possibilities. The soft foam grips also affect riding precision, at least if you have sensitive roadie hands. This might sound weird, but it’s true. And it’s also the reason all of our test riders preferred the Trek Crockett Disc or other gravel bikes on singletrack and gravel paths. It was only on technical terrain that we started noticing the advantages of the trail-oriented geometry, the 720 mm wide flat bars and the 100 mm suspension fork.

The high-end version in our test comes with an SL-suffix in its name, which denotes a higher quality carbon fibre and a better carbon layup which shaves 250 g off a regular carbon Procaliber. In addition, the top of the range version comes with the Control Freak cable routing, which allows for tidy and safe cable management and is just a very nice touch! Matching the diameter of the wheels to the different frame sizes gives the Procaliber a few extra bonus points. Especially with smaller riders who will enjoy better handling characteristics of smaller wheels. Frame sizes up to 15.5″ come with 27.5″ wheels.

The Trek Procaliber 9.9 SL RSL in detail

Drivetrain SRAM XX1 Eagle Wheelset DT Swiss XMC1200 Carbon Brakes SRAM Level Ultimate Tires Bontrager XR1 Team Issue Weight 9.02 kg Price € 7,999

Geometry of the Trek Procaliber 9.9 SL RSL

Unfortunately the killer looks and many clever details don’t make up for the poor steering precision of the Trek Procaliber 9.9 SL. Increased riding confidence was going to be the ultimate argument for the Trek against its gravel competitors, but in practice it only made a difference on technical terrain. You could stiffen up the front end by swapping around some of the components. But you’re probably better off with the Trek Crockett Disc from our group test if you’re after real fun on gravel paths and flowy trails – especially if you’re a roadie who demands razor-sharp precision and honest, direct feedback.

– SRAM Eagle – Rider height-specific wheel sizing – Control Freak cable routing

More info at: trekbikes.com

Alle Bikes im Test: Festka One Gravel | Legor Cicli LWTUA | Merida Silex 9000 | Moots Routt RSL | Open U.P. | Rondo Ruut CF2 |  Salsa Cutthroat Force 1 | Specialized Men’s Diverge Comp | Specialized Sequoia Elite | Trek Crockett 7 Disc | Votec VRX Elite

Words: Robin Schmitt, Manuel Buck, Benjamin Topf, Hannah Troop Photos: Valentin Rühl

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Trek Pro Caliber 9.9 SL RSL 2018 Mountain Bike Reviews

Review overview.

Overall Rating:

Read all Trek Pro Caliber 9.9 SL RSL 2018 Mountain Bike reviews here:

Read Full Review

• Category: Mountain Bikes
• Price: £6500

Trek Pro Caliber 9.9 SL RSL 2018 Mountain Bike £

• In mountain biking’s heyday, Procaliber was the envy of all other race bikes. Now it’s back to rule the XC circuit once again, redefining the term ‘hardtail’ and setting the bar for speed and smarts. Procaliber’s IsoSpeed decoupler delivers uncompromising cross country performance, efficiency and an incredible ride feel. It’s the fastest, smoothest, smartest hardtail on the trail.
• Product codes:
• Product ID 1: 17207958273
• Product ID 2: EV319902-15.5-BLK
• Products in category: 613
• Average price in category: £2788.09
• Products from Trek: 201
• Review score: 9.7 out of 10 stars based on 332 reviews

Trek Pro Caliber 9.9 SL RSL 2018 Mountain Bike Youtube Reviews

Trek Video Reviews

This Trek Pro Caliber 9.9 SL RSL 2018 Mountain Bike review from the Mountain Bikes category is aimed to aid you when deciding which product is right for you.

Things to consider when buying cycling products

If you decide to buy a new bike for cycling, or even clothing, or parts, with products like Trek Pro Caliber 9.9 SL RSL 2018 Mountain Bike there are a lot of options that you may consider, but before you buy one, make sure you spare some time to do proper research. Think about what exactly you are looking for and what you need it for. This article will help you get some best tips on how to select the right bike. Start by looking at the common bike types that suits you the best- hybrid, mountain, road, commuter or city. Next very important factor is your cycling goal. Think about the type of terrain you are going to ride the most, what is the distance you would like to cover and what exactly you want to achieve.

If you want to explore off road, then it is easy to narrow down your selection. You can simply hunt for a mountain bike with knobbly, wide tires, sturdy brakes, flat handlebar, suspension with shock absorption feature, which is ideal for unpredictable paths. Next you need to focus on how much suspension you exactly want. Now the next thing is the right wheel size that is suitable for you. You need sturdy, larger and stable wheels for smoother tracks.

In case you are spending fair amount of time on pavement, your selection criteria extends. Based on your objective, you may need a road bike, a hybrid or a commuter. You will see a lot of road bikes come with skinny and smooth tires along with a curved handlebar. It allows you to bent-over ideal for speed. Hybrids are known for providing stability as well as comfort through its thick tires with an upright position for riding and this helps you ride your bike easily through dirt packed tracks or city streets.

Commuter bikes are available in sturdy yet stylish models with fancy accessories. It has amazing utility features like fender mounts, racks etc.

Your selection entirely depends on how long, how hard and the location where you are going to ride.

Spare some time

Before you start hunting for a new bike, make sure you spend some doing research to avoid problems in future. You need plan right and buy right so do not rush into hasty decisions.

Budget a little more

Before you start shopping for your bike, consider the amount of money you can invest to accomplish your cycling goals. Then irrespective of the budget you have planned for, spare around two thirds of your budget to your bike. The remaining budget is for the accessories. Despite of the price range, you would need basic accessories like a pump, a helmet, bottle cages and a water bottle.

Gather information

The internet is flooded with information on different types of bikes along with detailed information regarding its parts and how they function. Do spend some time gaining knowledge about bike parts so that you understand the difference between different models, brands and frame materials etc.

This will help you buy your bike confidently.

Seek advice

If you know someone with good knowledge about cycling, or someone who had just purchased the bike, do not hesitate to seek advice as they can answer your questions and they will be happy to share their knowledge and experience with you.

Check with the experts

A second opinion is always better and for this you can simply visit the local bike shop near you and you can get advice on the type of bike you can buy and the different models you can choose from that suit your needs.

Consider the fit first

Irrespective of whether you buy a top brand model or just an entry level bike, it can be a disaster if it doesn’t fit. You can consult the salesperson and he can help you buy the right size. Then work out 4 different adjustments like handlebar height, saddle position, seat height and the reach. It is always better to hunt for shop with trained staff as they will take perfect measurements, help you settle on multiple bikes and accordingly swap different parts to adjust your position. This service will certainly cost you a little more, so you need to plan your budget accordingly. Do not fall in prey to some retailers who often offer bikes in odd sizes at a discounted price.

Experiment with a lot of models

Bike shopping is certainly not like buying a house/car that you purchase after looking at the first model you come across. Yes, when you are riding an old bike since many years now, then a new bike is certainly going to make a difference for you. This is because now there is advancement in technology. It is better to try out different models before you get the right one.

Narrow down your bike search

Looking at a plenty of models can confuse you in the sense you may end up getting frustrated with your search. It is better to narrow your search to 3 models like Trek Pro Caliber 9.9 SL RSL 2018 Mountain Bike along with your budget and the purpose of use. Once you narrow down your search, do not forget to take a test ride for 15-20 minutes or longer if possible. Before you take a test ride, make sure you check for fit adjustments and a tutorial briefing in about how the various operations of the bike.

You can simply reject even a perfect model, if you have to struggle stretching to get to the handlebar or you feel clumsy with the shifter that you may not have operated before.

Test the bike wearing the clothing you are going to use while cycling

It is always better to take test rides/bike fittings by putting on the same shoes, apparel which you normally prefer for rides. There can be difference in fit when you are wearing a pair of jeans than when you are in cycling shorts.

Take some time to think about your actual bike requirements and make sure you don’t fall in prey to something fancy or new that is being offered. Think if you need a bike that comes with disc brakes? Are you in need of electronic groupset? Is the bike equipped with rack mounts that you actually need? The answer to these questions can help you pay for what you need and ignore the things that you don’t.

Where to buy the bike from

The internet can help you buy stuff like game consoles, books etc., but for bikes it is always better to buy from a shop. A bike is something that you need to check for fits and other adjustments, accessories etc. It is something that you cannot order online without checking the bike. Make sure you buy from the shop that offers fitting service and help you in other bike adjustments.

Of course you will find the bikes quite cheaper when ordered online, but as a beginner it is always better to visit shop that sell different brands of cycles and provide first service free.

Look for personal service

There is no harm going for online shopping to gain the benefits of online discounts. But, ensure that you check for all the advantages that you actually need. Apart from fit sessions plus test rides, a shop will always make sure that you get proper assembling and they may also offer the one-time adjustment for free. It may include discounts on various accessories with your bike purchase.

Believe in your gut feelings

Although it is advisable that you take advice from experts and your friends, but after you consult the experts or friends, the final decision is up to you. Once you decide do not underestimate your gut feelings. Just believe in yourself and think about what you need and the salesman in the shop is there to guide based on your cycling requirements.

Now, when you take the final decision, simply click to read more reviews and get your bike. You will surely enjoy riding the bike as you had done a lot of research, planned your budget, consulted the experts and your final decision is based on a lot of factors that you considered. Now, it is the time to enjoy your ride and take good care of your bike. You can achieve your cycling goals as you have the right model in your hands to get going.

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Results have arrived, trek procaliber 9.9 rsl mountain bike - 2018, 18.5", item #bmt28704, condition: pre-owned used condition with signs of use but functions as intended. backed by tpc's risk-free return policy., fit range: 5'6" - 5'10" sizing guide.

Our RideFast shipping means this bike gets to you quickly and securely. Domestic US ground rates are a flat $135 for regular bikes or $150 for e-bikes.

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If this bike isn't perfect for you, our Ride Guides will help you find the right one.

A Refined XC Hardtail

The Procaliber is a proven World Cup contender. It’s lighter and more agile than the Supercaliber, but still extremely capable over the rough stuff. With lightweight OCLV mountain carbon, the frame is smooth and stiff - aided by the rear IsoSpeed decoupler. Whether you’re at the race loop or sweeping local singletrack, it won’t let you down.

• Curious about one of the biggest perks of buying with TPC? Read about our Guaranteed Buyback Program . It comes standard with every bike we sell.
• New rear brake pads
• Moderate scratches on the top tube & down tube
• Moderate scratches on the chainstays & seatstays
• Cosmetic damage on the drive side chainstay cable port

Added to Cart

Changing the way cyclists buy bikes.

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We’re fellow bike nerds. We're cyclists who want to find the right bike, components, and accessories for you. That’s why we created our innovative Certified Pre-Owned bike process and why we’re committed to finding the best products you need for your adventures.

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The chart below provides a general suggested range of heights and is not exact. Sizing may vary across brands.

The tailoring of any bike is an important step in the long term enjoyment of riding and it can take time to adjust to the fit of a new bike. All contact points (pedals, shoes, and saddle) can be changed and altered for personal preference, performance, and comfort.

Contact our Ride Guides if you have any questions about the fit of your new bike.

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Bike Test: Trek Procaliber 9.9 SL

Ever since that spy shot that we were able to grab at the 2015 Kenda Cup race in May, the Trek Procaliber SL has been one of the most anticipated bikes of the year. Cross-country purists have been busting out fresh leg razors in eager anticipation of the release of what Trek hopes will be the next standard for hardtail cross-country race bikes. Trek has been using IsoSpeed decouplers on its road bikes for a few years now, and it’s no surprise that Trek has now introduced the technology onto its hardtails. After a quick trip to Holland to see the unveiling of the Procaliber, we knew we had to get one and put it through its paces—and, of course, see what all the fuss is about the IsoSpeed decoupler.

WHO IS IT MADE FOR?

This bike has cross-country racing written all over it and turned the heads of aggressive XC riders on almost every trail that we hit. Most hardtails are built for riders with a specific race plan, and the Procaliber fits right into the mold of those who know exactly what they want. Our test bike is a 17.5- inch frame and is spec’d with 29-inch wheels. Trek created this rig with its Smart Wheel Size concept, which gives the smaller frames 27.5-inch wheels to match the stature of smaller riders.

Even though our test bike is at the top end of the stock build options at $8000, the Procaliber SL starts at $2500 for a frame and has a few price levels in between. Since this bike is available in Project One, the sky is the limit for how much you can spend customizing it.

Take the fast line: The Procaliber is flat-out fast and wants to be pushed. Through fast turns the tight wheelbase gives the Procaliber an incredibly responsive feel.

What is it made from.

Since this will become Trek’s flagship race bike, the frame is woven with lightweight OCLV carbon that works in conjunction with the IsoSpeed decoupler. The IsoSpeed decoupler is what makes this bike so different and special. According to Trek, the IsoSpeed system increases vertical compliance by a staggering 70 percent. Our first impression when we saw the spy shots of the Procaliber was that this would be a hardtail with a little suspension, but after spending time on this bike, it’s clear that the IsoSpeed design is not built around suspension, but instead, around the idea of making the ride more comfortable. There is a difference between comfort and capability, and while the Procaliber is every bit a hardtail, it is a unique and effective approach to increasing trail comfort.

The moneymaker: This little piece of technology is what sets the Procaliber aside from the rest of the competition. The ISO Speed decoupler smooths out the ride and makes it a little easier to ride a hardtail in the sense of comfort.

Speed and performance were put at the forefront when designing the Procaliber. Modern geometry, Boost 148 hub spacing and internal cable routing give this Trek a sleek look, and the bike is flat-out fast. We have reservations about the practicality of internal cable routing from a maintenance standpoint, but Trek uses its new Control Freak system to make routing easier and to allow the frame to work with mechanical or Di2 electronic drivetrains on the same platform.

WHICH COMPONENTS STAND OUT?

With as flashy a build kit as the 9.9 offers, it’s tough to pick just a few components that really stand out. The Bontrager XXX Lite bars and stem are stiff and light, while the RockShox RS-1 is one of the stiffest forks that we have ridden. This was the third set of DT Swiss XMC1200 wheels that we have tested, and so far we’ve been impressed with their overall performance. The Race Face Next SL cranks add to the bling factor, making the Procaliber pure eye candy for the cross-country faithful.

Balance of weight and stiffness: The Procaliber frame is incredibly light, while the RS-1 fork is incredibly stiff. Trek believes that this combination is the best recipe for winning.

Pull out all the stops: between the carbon dt swiss xmc1200 wheels, xtr components and slick frame, the procaliber turns heads. the lines of the frame are modern and look fast, especially with the internal cable routing..

Eye-catching details: To keep the weight down, Trek spec’d the Procaliber with the Race Face Next SL cranks, which are some of the lightest available. The combination of weight and stiffness made for an efficient ride.

How does it perform.

While the IsoSpeed decoupler is a complex piece of engineering, the overall performance concept is pretty simple. Out of the saddle the Procaliber rides like a true hardtail; in the saddle the bike feels like it’s floating over imperfections on the trail—deep ruts feel a little shallower, rocks feel a little smaller, and the trail a little smoother (due in part to the 29-inch wheels). On long fire roads the Procaliber felt unbelievably smooth, and we really understood Trek’s success on the road with the IsoSpeed design.

Moving out: Right away we could feel the comfort of the G2 geometry. Our test rider was 5-foot-9, though, and the 17.5-inch frame did feel a little small to him at times. Riders who are on the fence with sizes should really look into the numbers and fit before making a purchase. The stem and bar combo, in relation to the reach and drop, did allow for more precise handling.

Cornering: The Procaliber has a very tight wheelbase, which made the bike feel incredibly nimble and surprisingly easy to push through corners. After we swapped tires to a wider set of 2.1s, we noticed a drastic difference in the cornering of the bike. The low- rise, wide bars put us in a good position and made the bike feel balanced on everything from flowing singletrack to steep and fast pitches.

Up and away: Between the 29-inch wheels and incredibly light frame, this bike will climb for days. The torsional stiffness of the RS-1 fork is an added bonus to how well the Procaliber will handle any mountain.

Climbing: It climbs like a race bike; there is do doubt about that. On almost every climb we found ourselves sliding forward on the saddle, putting our heads down and hoping for a KOM. When locked out, the RS-1 was stiff and responsive when we pedaled hard out of the saddle. On long days we felt the benefits of the IsoSpeed frame and had less soreness the day after. We did notice that the rear triangle would give a little when we would work hard out of the saddle. The seatstays are relatively thin, which makes them more compliant, but they did seem to flex some when we pedaled hard out of the saddle.

It does a lot: While the Procaliber is built to be a hardtail race bike, it doesn’t shy away from a drop or jump. The compact geometry makes the bike incredibly nimble and fun to ride.

Descending: For a cross-country hardtail, the Procaliber truly is a fast and playful bike. We noticed how easily it would accelerate and how effortlessly it carried its momentum down the trail. In flat sections that normally required more pedaling, the Procaliber ate up the trail and carried speed with ease. The RS-1 isn’t the lightest cross-country fork out there, and it did weigh down the front end some, but it made up for that by giving us extra stiffness and stability. We felt the benefits of the tight wheelbase, as the bike felt very balanced at high speeds and in steep sections.

TRICKS, TIPS & UPGRADES

We didn’t have many complaints about the build kit, and have really struggled to determine which parts to swap or upgrade. If anything, the Bontrager XR1 Team Issue 29×2.0 tires were fast and offered little resistance, but we did swap to a pair of WTB Nano 29×2.1s, and with the slightly wider tire we noticed a big difference in capability on the descents. We didn’t lose too much, if anything, on the climbs.

One of the issues with 1x drivetrains is trying to find a front chainring that will suit a majority of riders. The Procaliber 9.9 comes with a 32-tooth front ring, which we think made this bike very under-geared. We spun out pretty easily on flat and downhill sections. Some of you might not think you’ll be able to push a bigger ring, but if there’s any bike that will allow you to run a bigger gear, it’s this one.

BUYING ADVICE

A hardtail at this level has a very focused demographic, especially given the price. If your local trails are smooth and flowy cross-country havens, the Procaliber will give you all the efficiency and fun that you need. If you’re an aspiring racer, the Procaliber is a fast machine that will allow you to push yourself but keep you comfortable while reaching for the top step. Either way the Procaliber could be a dream bike that is worth the coin and delivers on the promise of speed and comfort.

THERE ARE SO MANY WAYS TO GET MOUNTAIN BIKE ACTION

Mountain Bike Action is a monthly magazine devoted to all things mountain biking (yes, that’s 12 times a year because we never take a month off of mountain biking). It has been around since 1986 and we’re still having fun. Start a subscription by clicking here or calling (800) 767-0345. Available from the Apple Newsstand for reading on your iPad, iPhone or iPod Touch.

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Trek Procaliber 9.8 SL

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Size / 15.5", 17.5", 18.5", 19.5", 21.5"

Weight / 10.02

At a glance

Where to buy.

Specifications

• Frame Super Light OCLV Mountain Carbon, IsoSpeed, E2 tapered head tube, MicroTruss, Control Freak internal routing, balanced post mount brake, PF92, Boost148 & G2 Geometry on 17.5˝ and larger sizes
• Fork RockShox SID, RockShox SID RL, Solo Air, Motion Control remote lockout, E2 tapered steerer, G2 Geometry w/51mm offset on 29ers, Boost110, 100mm travel
• Wheels Bontrager Kovee Elite 23, Tubeless Ready, 54T Rapid Drive, Boost110 front, Boost148 rear (15.5˝: 142x12 rear), tubeless strips included, valves sold separately
• Wheel Size 29" 27.5"
• Tires Bontrager XR2 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, 120 tpi, aramid bead, 29x2.20˝ (15.5: 27.5x2.20˝)
• Chain SRAM GX Eagle, SRAM GX Eagle
• Crank Truvativ Stylo Carbon, SRAM Stylo Carbon Eagle, 32T
• Bottom Bracket PF92
• Rear Derailleur SRAM GX Eagle, SRAM GX Eagle, Roller Bearing Clutch
• Shifters SRAM GX Eagle, SRAM GX Eagle, 12 speed
• Brakeset SRAM Level TLM, SRAM Level TLM hydraulic disc
• Handlebar Bontrager Race X Lite, OCLV Carbon, 31.8mm, 5mm rise, 720mm width
• Saddle Bontrager Montrose Elite, hollow titanium rails
• Seatpost Bontrager Pro, OCLV Carbon, 31.6mm, 5mm offset
• Stem Bontrager Pro, 31.8mm, 7 degree
• Grips ESI Chunky
• Headset FSA IS-2, 1-1/8˝ top, 1.5˝ bottom

Q: How much is a 2018 Trek Procaliber 9.8 SL?

A 2018 Trek Procaliber 9.8 SL is typically priced around $4,999 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 2018 Trek Procaliber 9.8 SL?

The 2018 Trek Procaliber 9.8 SL may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: How much does a 2018 Trek Procaliber 9.8 SL weigh?

A 2018 Trek Procaliber 9.8 SL weights 10.02.

Q: What size wheels does the 2018 Trek Procaliber 9.8 SL have?

The 2018 Trek Procaliber 9.8 SL has 29" and 27.5" wheels.

Q: What size 2018 Trek Procaliber 9.8 SL should I get?

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2019 Trek Procaliber 9.9 SL

A 27.5″ / 29″ carbon frame hardtail crosscountry bike with ultra high-end components. Compare the full range

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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.

Procaliber 9.9 SL

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Building on it’s IsoSpeed equipped predecessor’s comfort and the modern geometry of the short-travel Supercaliber, the all-new Trek Procaliber hardtail gets all the right updates. Modern geometry, cleaner cable routing, and improved steer-ability make it faster than ever. What’s new about the 2021 Trek Procaliber? The geometry’s the biggest change you’re likely to feel. Based […]

Read Review

Apr 2020 · Alan Muldoon

The Trek Procaliber 9.7 crossed our finish line first because it’s the fastest bike on test. And in XC racing, that’s all that counts.

Speed with comfort

No dropper post

This hardtail is a lightweight and dependable mountain bike with a carbon frame and wheels.

Bontrager Kovee Elite 23 Carbon, tubeless-ready wheels

Lightweight carbon frame with IsoSpeed decoupler

100mm RockShox Reba RL fork with remote lockout

Handlebar is on the narrow side

Dec 2017 · Robin Schmitt

How does a pro-level mountain bike from the XC World Cup compete against a gravel bike? We tested the Trek Procaliber 9.9 SL Race Shop Limited to find out.

Jul 2016 · Wil Barrett

Is the Trek Procaliber the most comfortable hardtail on the market? Wil investigates with his longerm test bike

What is it? The Procaliber 9.8 SL comes from a three-tiered lineup of carbon hardtails, Trek’s premium cross country race bike. Used by the Trek Factory team including Aussie champs Bec Henderson and Dan McConnell this frame has been widely accepted in the racing community. The Procaliber uses Trek’s Smart Wheel Size arrangement, meaning the …

IsoSpeed is successful in taking the sting out of the trail when seated.

Stunning frame construction.

Lightweight parts.

Not to be confused as a suspension bike, it's still a hardtail.

Mar 2016 · Guy Kesteven

Impact-smoothing super-light racer, but needs fatter tyres and pedalling bounce can be irritating. Buy if you like your greyhound hardtail with a side order of comfort, and are prepared to make a kit tweak or two

Svelte, contemporary frame, isospeed pivot smooth buzz, rapid ride

Smoothing tech can be a double-edged sword, needs fatter treads to get the most from it

Jan 2016 · McCoy

The Procaliber will give you all the efficiency and fun that you need

Last updated September 16 Not listed for 1,706 days

Trek Procaliber 9.8 SL Review – A World Cup course-conquering hardtail!

• Bike Reviews
• March 22, 2018
• No Comments

The Trek Procaliber 9.8 SL is undeniably the most world-shattering hardtail, to ever hit the industry! Its super-charged nature, redefines everyone’s perception of when, where, and how you ride a hardtail.

The Procaliber 9.8 SL is best described as a bike with an infinite depth of valour. Like an experience battle-hero, except with a newer, energetic heartbeat. Personally, I’m awfully tempted to buy this action-packed hardtail, over any other dual-suspension mountain bike. I mean, Trek clearly approached the design of this bike, with the attitude of; “Who said hardtails can’t be forgiving?!”

3…2…1… Ignite the speed… IsoSpeed!

With my first glance at the Procaliber 9.8, I couldn’t help but be fascinated with Trek’s IsoSpeed technology. The science stuff behind this exclusive feature, involves decoupling the seat-tube from the top-tube. This provides the freedom required for the seat-tube to flex according to the instantaneous force.

IsoSpeed technology delivers flawless vertical compliance within the carbon frame’s shape. Reducing fatigue on the rider. From my experience, I found there was no sacrifice in the bike’s capabilities. Confidence was on point, as was the nippy feel that you’d expect from any hardtail. I would go as far as to say that the Procaliber 9.8 SL can be used for races, that are 5 hours or longer! My max ride on the bike, was 4 hours. And even still after that elapsed time, the bike felt cushy enough to press on.

Trek’s Procaliber 9.8 frame is made from OCLV carbon fibre. Or put plainly; the type of carbon that stretches the very limit of how light manufacturers can make their mountain bike frames. To shield this carbon and keep the frame lasting longer, Trek brought in their Carbon Armour technology. Basically this technology, absorbs most of the impact coming from any unwanted projectile, that would dare to hit the direct carbon layer.

OCLV Carbon fibre, is certainly not skittish. Especially when formed in the tube shapes of the Procaliber 9.8. The carbon is built to endure the test of time. Plus, I ran a test to see just how much energy this lightweight frame will save you. So the frame weight, with all components equipped except for the wheels, is 5.5 Kg. Then you’ve got Boost 148 technology on the back wheel, which will inevitably magnify your power output. Not to mention the frame’s incredible stiffness. Now, I rode a specific trail that I would normally ride with my hardtail in 1:27:15. When I piloted the Procaliber 9.8 along that same route, I ended up riding it in 1:17:33! Seconds and minutes, don’t lie! If the frame saved me that amount of time, and ultimately energy, then all that technology is being put to good use.

Star Component: The Wheels

The Trek Procaliber 9.8 SL, featured some eye-opening wheels! Bontrager’s Kovee Pro TLR wheel-set was the topic of discussion. Made from OCLV carbon fibre, and with a rim inner width of 22.5mm, the wheels themselves proved to be balanced. What I found to also be an asset to the wheels’ superior stability was the way the engineers managed to create this wheelset with a spoke-bed off-set.

As far as experience goes, I’ve grown quite fond of Bontrager’s Kovee Pro TLR wheels. As they always deliver a gutsy, fast-paced ride, that gets the adrenalin pumping properly! The light-weight, and increase in overall bike stiffness, mean you can motor up climbs, and snap through corners with unmatched speed.

The Spec Sheet:

Frame: Super Light OCLV Mountain Carbon

Front suspension: RockShox SID RL

Wheels: Bontrager Kovee Pro

Tyres: Bontrager XR1 Team Issue

Shifters: SRAM X1, 11-speed

Rear derailleur: SRAM X01 Carbon

Crank: SRAM X1 Carbon

Saddle: Bontrager Montrose Elite

Seatpost: Bontrager Pro

Handlebar: Bontrager Race X Lite

Stem: Bontrager Pro

Brake set: SRAM Level TLM hydraulic disc

Weight: 17.5″ – 9.89 kg

The Ride – On the UCI Stellenbosch XC track.

The Trek Procaliber 9.8 SL was undeniably built for XC trail blasts! Like every XC course built, there’s always going to be a climb or two. I was lucky enough to be able to do some testing of the Procaliber on the UCI World Cup XC track in Stellenbosch. With two 2 weeks till the big World Cup event, it was I that was the fastest rider on the course. Obviously not nearly pacing as high the pro’s, but still. I managed to get a detailed feel from the bike, with regards to its XC nature.

The SRAM X1 1X11 group-set, provided a spot-on gear ratio. Admittedly, due to being an 11speed setup, the bike wasn’t the easiest thing to pedal up technical climbs. However, I do believe that the 32T chain-ring in the front supplied some relieve in making the cranks pedal “easier”. The stiffness of the Trek-made, carbon, frame, was felt through-out the climbs. I just had so much more control over the bike.

Now, let’s progress along to the single-track part of the test. Aboard the Trek Procaliber, the stem angle and original handle-bar upsweep, really stood-out to me as an asset to the handling of the bike. Especially along high berms. The bike almost naturally chose the right line, and I could simply settle, and lay down the power when needed.

The part I’ve been waiting to tell you about; the downhill sections of the track. Please note that lots of rocks were included! Let’s face it, the Procaliber wasn’t the smoothest over anything. But that IsoSpeed technology sure brings on the flexibility-absorption aspect. That being said, the bike felt like a dual-suspension, with the nimble behaviour of a hardtail. The geometry of the frame, also allowed the back wheel of the bike to move freely, therefore adding to the speed at which the bike responded to my movements. In short, I wasn’t shying away from the tougher line, just because the bike was a hardtail!

It’s hard to fully describe the eclectic feel of this hardtail. However, I’m sure of one thing.; you can’t choose a better hardtail, race bike, to tackle a cross-country MTB track with! You can power up and along any MTB track, and simply not feel the fatigue of the taxing conditions, thanks to the IsoSpeed tech. Just look; Anton Cooper chose it for the UCI Stellenbosch Epic World Cup

The Trek Procaliber 9.8 SL, is well kitted out for its price. I mean you’ve practically got the best light-weight to high-performance components that any hardtail enthusiast could ask for!

R 76,999.00

Trek Procaliber 9.8 SL Review –  A World Cup course-conquering hardtail!

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Six-Month Review: Trek Procaliber SL

With the Procaliber SL, Trek has reengineered the race bike with a modicum of comfort and revived our interest in hardtails

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

The Takeaway

The Good:  The IsoSpeed decoupler takes the hard edge off trails and makes it possible to go faster for longer. The combination of Boost hub spacing and the excellent new DT Swiss XMC 1200 Carbon makes for some of the lightest, stiffest, hardest-driving wheels we’ve ridden. RockShox’s RS-1 fork is the fork benchmark for small-bump compliance and XC performance.

The Bad:  The 2.0-inch Bontrager XR1 tires might be fast, but they are too skinny to provide any compliance, tore easily in our desert environment, and were the first things we replaced. At $8,000, this is a machine only for the rarefied ranks of World Cup racing (though Trek offers carbon Procal models down to $2,400).

The Verdict:  If cross-country racing is your thing, you’d be hard pressed to find a better machine than the  Procaliber 9.9 SL . It’s stunningly light at 19.2 pounds, as fast and nimble as you’d expect for a fully tricked-out hard tail, yet the rear triangle design ensures that it doesn’t beat you up like most other race bikes. 

If you asked me a year or two ago, I’d have told you that hardtails were dead. Suspension and carbon layups have gotten so good and light that there’s almost no weight or efficiency penalty for picking full-squish.

But two developments have changed my opinion. First, the rise of plus-size tires has made hardtails comfy and capable in ways that they have never been before. And second, several companies, most notably Trek with the Procaliber, have taken to re-engineering race hardtails with some semblance of comfort.

Which means that if you race, or if you live in a place with smooth, fast trails, hardtails are once again worth considering. (Note: Unless you’re five foot or smaller and can’t fit on a 29er, forgo the 27.5-inch hardtail models, which I consider the worst idea to have surfaced in years: small wheels plus rigid frame equals worst-of-both-worlds harshness.)

• Price: $8,000
• Weight: 19.2 pounds
• Drivetrain: Shimano XTR

Two things make the Procaliber SL frame stand out. First, and most obvious, is the IsoSpeed decoupler, a design the company debuted with great success on its Domane endurance road bike (which won Paris-Roubaix and Flanders), and then incorporated into its Boone cross bike and now this XC weapon. The design disconnects the seat post from the down tube with a pair of bearings, which allows the saddle to move in a rearward arc so the bike absorbs road roughness instead of your body. It works exceptionally well  not only because it provides vertical compliance, but also because it simultaneously keeps the bike laterally stiff for pedaling and handling.

The Procaliber’s other notable characteristic reflects Trek’s increasing aptitude with carbon forming, as the company’s high-end frames are getting lighter and lighter while remaining stiff and strong. (The debut of the Top Fuel , for instance, saw Trek’s four-inch race bike lose nearly a pound in frame weight from the previous year’s Superfly FS.) What this means is that the Procaliber frame is as light and snappy as a road bike but still strong enough for constant trail abuse.

The frame sports Boost hub spacing, too, a good upgrade for a 29er since the wheels get stiffer with the additional width. And despite the frame’s featherweight, Trek also added clean internal cable routings and ports, making the Procaliber able to accommodate everything from a dropper post and/or a lockout button, as well as brakes and shift cables.

The Components

On an $8,000 bicycle, I expect everything to be completely dialed. That’s sometimes surprisingly not the case, but on the Procaliber 9.9 SL, Trek got it right. Also, incidentally, looking down the Procaliber line, Trek’s spec choices, even on the less-expensive models, are very good. 

Other than the cutting-edge frame design, my favorite part of this bike is the fork and wheel combo. The RockShox RS-1, while costly, is a step above everything else out there, in terms of performance, for a short-travel bike. The full carbon crown design, with the stanchions at the base, makes for best-in-class stiffness, which you notice when carving hard turns or climbing and sprinting out of the saddle. The fork damper provides incredible small-bump sensitivity, too, but still soaks up the big bumps. Trek wisely spec’d a remote lockout, which is a must, in my opinion, on hardtails, where turning the bike rigid and back is a constant switch. And even though the RS-1 is a bit heavier than comparable standard forks, thanks to Trek’s carbon prowess, the bike is still astoundingly light.

Meanwhile, the DT Swiss XMC1200 Carbon wheels are a revelation from a company whose hoops in previous years have left me cold. I have ridden these wheels on numerous bikes this year, including on an 850-miles sojourn on the Arizona Trail, and not only do they feel like cheating because they're so light and spin up so quickly, but they also proved tough enough for rugged trails with big loads. The Boost spacing (110mm up front, 148 rear) helps with the stiffness, and the wheels also set up tubeless without issue.

As already noted, the pinner tires, while maybe okay for short, fast races, were too skinny for my liking and also too flimsy for the rocky, poky trails we have in New Mexico and Arizona. Instead, I upgraded almost immediately (well, once I’d shredded one sidewall, which took under a week) to Maxxis Ikons —2.35-inch front and 2.2-inch back—which made for a much cushier and more durable ride.

Other spec notes: The Race Face Next SL crank is awesome, and the gold standard when it comes to lightweight, stiff, race machines. And I love the XTR brakes and drivetrain, but Shimano is overdue for a bigger XTR-level cassette. It’s true that the 11-40 cogs worked fine in this super-lightweight race application, but if you buy the top level goods, you should be able to get an 11-42 without downgrading to XT parts, which is what is necessary now if you want the bigger range. Oh yeah, and the cheap foam grips, while ridiculously light, are total throwaways.

A couple of years ago, I shunned hardtails when Specialized unveiled the World Cup edition Epic . At under 20 pounds, the price you’d pay in weight over a hardtail was far exceeded by what gained in comfort from this bike. And more importantly, when I rode a rigid frame for the endurance events that I was so keen on doing, I’d end up pummeled, wishing I’d gone full squish.

So it was with trepidation that I opted to ride the Procaliber earlier this year in a 12-hour race. It was a mostly smooth, fast 16-mile loop, with a few miles of rock and ruts thrown in to keep you honest. From the get go I enjoyed the power transfer, immediacy, and snappiness of being on a hardtail. This bike corners and leans over like a road racer, and the wheels and super stiff bottom bracket give it rocket ship acceleration. All day, I felt good and fast, making clean passes on climbs because of the bike’s light weight and even smashing past people on the one swerving, rocky descent, which was a testament to the bike’s capabilities.

No hardtail is ever going to be as comfy as full suspension, but the IsoSpeed coupler actually kept my back, neck, and shoulders in line for all 12 hours, and I didn’t feel like I’d gone a round with Jon Jones the next morning. There are a lot of gimmicks out there that claim to make bikes more comfortable, but Trek’s IsoSpeed design is not one of them. With a little fatter tires than come on the bike, the Procaliber was as forgiving as a hardtail race bike will likely ever be, but gave up nothing in terms of speed and agility.

The Competition

There are too many hardtail race 29ers on the market to mention, but the inevitable comparison is with this year’s BMC Teamelite TE01 , which, like the Procaliber promises added compliance out back, but accomplishes that feat with elastomers on metal rails embedded into the seat stays. Both bikes are excellent, and it’s exciting to see more than one company taking on the task of making hardtails more forgiving.

Our testers felt that the BMC was a bit more comfortable out back, though the Trek had a more linear feel in the rear-end movement. The Procaliber was also more laterally stiff, which is why most people agreed it would make a better, flat-out race bike. You can’t go wrong with either bike, and the BMC will best suit the rider after the most comfort in a hardtail. But the fact that the Trek came with an RS-1 fork and still tipped the scales a pound less than the BMC made it the overall favorite.

Buying Advice

Trek has almost singlehandedly reawakened my interest in hardtails. First came the Stache 9 , which is arguably the rowdiest, most capable hardtail I’ve ever ridden, thanks to those meaty, 29+ wheels. And now the Procaliber rethinks the XC hardtail.

This is simultaneously the fastest mountain bike I’ve ridden in years, as well as the most comfortable hardtail race bike. For those after a fleet, hard-charging machine that punishes the competition and not your body, it’s the inevitable pick.

Yes, it costs a small fortune and only dedicated racers will opt for the 9.9 SL model. But the 9.8 SL is the exact same frame in a build package that’s more democratic ($4,800), and the 9.7 and 9.6 use slightly lower grade carbon layups to bring the IsoSpeed decoupler advantages to everyone.

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The Unique Burial of a Child of Early Scythian Time at the Cemetery of Saryg-Bulun (Tuva)

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Pages:  379-406

In 1988, the Tuvan Archaeological Expedition (led by M. E. Kilunovskaya and V. A. Semenov) discovered a unique burial of the early Iron Age at Saryg-Bulun in Central Tuva. There are two burial mounds of the Aldy-Bel culture dated by 7th century BC. Within the barrows, which adjoined one another, forming a figure-of-eight, there were discovered 7 burials, from which a representative collection of artifacts was recovered. Burial 5 was the most unique, it was found in a coffin made of a larch trunk, with a tightly closed lid. Due to the preservative properties of larch and lack of air access, the coffin contained a well-preserved mummy of a child with an accompanying set of grave goods. The interred individual retained the skin on his face and had a leather headdress painted with red pigment and a coat, sewn from jerboa fur. The coat was belted with a leather belt with bronze ornaments and buckles. Besides that, a leather quiver with arrows with the shafts decorated with painted ornaments, fully preserved battle pick and a bow were buried in the coffin. Unexpectedly, the full-genomic analysis, showed that the individual was female. This fact opens a new aspect in the study of the social history of the Scythian society and perhaps brings us back to the myth of the Amazons, discussed by Herodotus. Of course, this discovery is unique in its preservation for the Scythian culture of Tuva and requires careful study and conservation.

Keywords: Tuva, Early Iron Age, early Scythian period, Aldy-Bel culture, barrow, burial in the coffin, mummy, full genome sequencing, aDNA

Information about authors: Marina Kilunovskaya (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Vladimir Semenov (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Candidate of Historical Sciences. Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail: [email protected] Varvara Busova  (Moscow, Russian Federation).  (Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation). Institute for the History of Material Culture of the Russian Academy of Sciences.  Dvortsovaya Emb., 18, Saint Petersburg, 191186, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Kharis Mustafin  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Technical Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Irina Alborova  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Candidate of Biological Sciences. Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected] Alina Matzvai  (Moscow, Russian Federation). Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology.  Institutsky Lane, 9, Dolgoprudny, 141701, Moscow Oblast, Russian Federation E-mail:  [email protected]

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Gagarin Cup Preview: Atlant vs. Salavat Yulaev

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Gagarin cup (khl) finals:  atlant moscow oblast vs. salavat yulaev ufa.

Much like the Elitserien Finals, we have a bit of an offense vs. defense match-up in this league Final.  While Ufa let their star top line of Alexander Radulov, Patrick Thoresen and Igor Grigorenko loose on the KHL's Western Conference, Mytischi played a more conservative style, relying on veterans such as former NHLers Jan Bulis, Oleg Petrov, and Jaroslav Obsut.  Just reaching the Finals is a testament to Atlant's disciplined style of play, as they had to knock off much more high profile teams from Yaroslavl and St. Petersburg to do so.  But while they did finish 8th in the league in points, they haven't seen the likes of Ufa, who finished 2nd. 

This series will be a challenge for the underdog, because unlike some of the other KHL teams, Ufa's top players are generally younger and in their prime.  Only Proshkin amongst regular blueliners is over 30, with the work being shared by Kirill Koltsov (28), Andrei Kuteikin (26), Miroslav Blatak (28), Maxim Kondratiev (28) and Dmitri Kalinin (30).  Oleg Tverdovsky hasn't played a lot in the playoffs to date.  Up front, while led by a fairly young top line (24-27), Ufa does have a lot of veterans in support roles:  Vyacheslav Kozlov , Viktor Kozlov , Vladimir Antipov, Sergei Zinovyev and Petr Schastlivy are all over 30.  In fact, the names of all their forwards are familiar to international and NHL fans:  Robert Nilsson , Alexander Svitov, Oleg Saprykin and Jakub Klepis round out the group, all former NHL players.

For Atlant, their veteran roster, with only one of their top six D under the age of 30 (and no top forwards under 30, either), this might be their one shot at a championship.  The team has never won either a Russian Superleague title or the Gagarin Cup, and for players like former NHLer Oleg Petrov, this is probably the last shot at the KHL's top prize.  The team got three extra days rest by winning their Conference Final in six games, and they probably needed to use it.  Atlant does have younger regulars on their roster, but they generally only play a few shifts per game, if that. 

The low event style of game for Atlant probably suits them well, but I don't know how they can manage to keep up against Ufa's speed, skill, and depth.  There is no advantage to be seen in goal, with Erik Ersberg and Konstantin Barulin posting almost identical numbers, and even in terms of recent playoff experience Ufa has them beat.  Luckily for Atlant, Ufa isn't that far away from the Moscow region, so travel shouldn't play a major role. 

I'm predicting that Ufa, winners of the last Superleague title back in 2008, will become the second team to win the Gagarin Cup, and will prevail in five games.  They have a seriously well built team that would honestly compete in the NHL.  They represent the potential of the league, while Atlant represents closer to the reality, as a team full of players who played themselves out of the NHL. 

• Atlant @ Ufa, Friday Apr 8 (3:00 PM CET/10:00 PM EST)
• Atlant @ Ufa, Sunday Apr 10 (1:00 PM CET/8:00 AM EST)
• Ufa @ Atlant, Tuesday Apr 12 (5:30 PM CET/12:30 PM EST)
• Ufa @ Atlant, Thursday Apr 14 (5:30 PM CET/12:30 PM EST)

Games 5-7 are as yet unscheduled, but every second day is the KHL standard, so expect Game 5 to be on Saturday, like an early start. 

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