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Trek Madone 3.1 Road Bike

World-class carbon performance starts here. For the discriminating sport-level rider who wants to squeeze every ounce of performance out of his/her budget.

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Carbon fiber and rear cassette were my main reason of getting rid of my Focus bike. The difference was amazing, I find the ride way more comfortable and since I mainly do hills, going from a 26 to a 30 rear cassette was like day and night and the Trek is almost 3 lbs. lighter. Makes climbing ALMOST a joy.

Man, those Bontrager wheels are the worst set of rims of my previous two bikes. Like riding with the brakes on. Put on some Forte's off my old bike and made a big difference. The seat isn't really a problem in fact it's no different than my other ones. Front shifter is OK the back 105 is better and the brakes seem OK.

After upgrading the wheel set the bike is something I look forward to ride for many miles. I like it!

A very light bike that handles well on all roads. Gearing is quite good too. A strong bike that gives you plenty of confidence. It looks well and has a very nice hard finish that stands up well to all kinds of road wear.

I find the saddle a real pain over long distances (50km+), I've decided to change it for something a bit easier on the butt!! The wheels are heavy and a bit of a 'let down' in comparison to the rest of the components and also the brakes could do with an upgrade.

The bike is good value for money and handles very well. It's a pity that they did not go 'the extra mile' regarding the wheels, I would recommend this bike over some of its rivals, but I feel that there is room for improvement! Wingman

Great climber, stiff bottom bracket, very comfortable ride. Did I mention it's a great climber? Wow

None so far

This is for the 2013 model. My last bike was Cannnondale CAAD10, which was amazing ride as well, but unfortunately ended up being too stiff for anything past 40-50 miles. So in comes the Madone, and I am very, very happy with the decision. The geometry places me in a more upright position, but still allows me to be aero on the drops. The three places it excels at are on hilly descents, climbs and long rides. I was really impressed with the power transfer when going up several steep hills around here, and equally impressed on the way down. The ride is very composed, if the makes any sense, and allows you to just relax and ride. Just fy--- I got rid of the stock seatpost and handlebars, and also switched out the Bontrager wheels to my existing Shimano RS80 wheelset. That made a huge difference, and the bike potential really came out.

Similar Products Used:

Bikes I've owned--- Giant TCR Composite, Cannondale Carbon Synapse, Cannondale CAAD10

The quality and the comfort of frame is very good The price is affordable

the front derailleur is Tiagra istead of 105

I wanted a bike that can be ridden year round over many kilometers and I now Got it!

For an entry level Carbon Road Bike the 3.1 is great value for money It's light and feels realy strong with a very smooth ride the 2012 model looks fantastic

None realy i'd recomend this bike to any one starting out road riding The same components for the handlebars to rear wheels would be good but they must mix and match to keep the price down

This bike is a pleasure to ride overall i could'nt be happier it seams perfect for the distance i cover 50 to 100 ks rides ( by the way i cant find a problem with the saddle it works well in my part of the world )

Light and tossable, handles bumpy roads much better than a metal frame

Saddle is hard and Wheels seem heavy when climbing

I got back into riding after about 11 years. While my 2000 model year Trek 2000 was a nice bike, I always felt it was too big for me (58cm frame) so when I found a new 2010 Madone 3.1 (56cm frame) on sale for under $1500 at my LBS in Oct 2012, I jumped on it. I could immediately feel the difference with how well the Madone cushions the bumps. and how much lighter it felt than the 2000 (even though the weight difference probably isn't very much). I'm finding the Madone to be great for the New Hampshire hills. I only got in about 250 road miles on it before the cold and snow came, but I'm very happy with the bike in general. so far. I upgraded the saddle to a Fi'zi:k Aliante after the first 100 miles or so because the stock saddle was a brick. The wheels are cheap and heavy and those are the only other planned upgrades. I would buy this bike again.

Very comfortable ride, I did a lot of research before purchasing my new bike and the 3.1 ticked all the boxes, the write up suggested a bike that could be ridden all day long and after my first journey out of 50 miles it didn't dissapoint. Very smooth stable and comfortable. The seat is hard but must suit my bum as I had no problems with it

Great bike buy one

Looks, weight, handling, climbing, brakes.

I'm no pro, I'm a born again cyclist (in my late 40s now) but I did a ton of research before settling for the Trek 3.1. I simply cannot fault it other than a pretty hard seat, which a good pair of cycling shorts will negate. Very smooth ride, hugely quick acceleration, admiring looks wherever I go on it and very light (I weighed it on our digital scales including pedals and water bottle holder it's under 8.5kg). Newer models can't really improve much so I went for a 2011 unused model and saved £400 ($650) what a bargain!

Ton of bike for $$$. Super comfy drivetrain. Great climber. Looks great. Easy to ride. Feels stable at speed.

Stock seat is a brick. Paint seems thin and scratches easier than most. 105 components can be noisy.

I own an older Cannondale aluminum and a Trek 5200 carbon bike, so that's what I have to compare them too. After riding the 3.1, I don't think you can do much better for $2,000. The frame is super comfy. The carbon frame absorbs bad roads wonderfully. Felt like a more expensive bike. Super stable going 40mph downhill. The compact gearing and 11/28 made huge hills easy work. My own complaints: I'm used to Shimano Ultegra, so the downgrade to 105 gear was noticeable. Nothing wrong with 105s, but they feel industrial compared to silkier, smoother more expensive components. Biggest complaint: the seat is awful! Every reviewer agrees that you will want your own seat! I'm giving a 4 instead of a 5 because of the seat and I prefer better than 105 components. If you are looking for your first carbon bike, or first bike, then get this one. Other than the easily replacable seat, you won't find a better deal or better bike. Just buy it! Even if you hate cycling later, you could sell this bike and get most of your $$$ back.

Just changed the stock Bontrager tires on my Trek Madone 3.1 to Continental Gatorskins at 550 miles. Gatorskins are much faster rolling and better grip in cornering. Plus, the Gatorskins are thicker with more belts for added flat avoidance. Although I didn't have any flats on the original tires during the 550 miles I rode the R1 Bontrager tires.

As previously stated the stock seat is very hard and uncomfortable....I changed it as well.

Great bike for the price. Most carbon bikes are much more money and the Shimano components work well. Shifts smoothly and brakes strong. Light and fast.

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Trek Madone 3.1 review

Versatile carbon framed road bike

Russell Burton / Future Publishing

Trek's 3 Series is the third up in its seven-model road bike range – and the first to offer carbon frames. It may be Trek 's lowest price carbon offering, but the company is keen to stress how much technology has gone into this frame.

Certainly the lines look familiar, and there is a good combination of features aimed at performance and practicality, which makes a lot of sense at this price.

• HIGHS: Fine riding, versatile frame and do-anything gearing
• LOWS: The wheels lack go and the brakes are slow to slow
• BUY IF... You want a fine day-long ride with scope to upgrade

The 3.1's tapered head tube and steerer come in Trek's slightly taller H2 fit, which will suit most riders and does away with ugly-looking stacks of spacers. We easily found a good position that was low enough on our 56cm model, even with the compact bar, which sensibly makes the drops more accessible.

Bontrager supplies everything on the Madone except for the groupset, and it's all reliable kit, the Affinity 1 saddle being the item most likely to split opinions – we found it to be a good shape but a little over-padded.

The OCLV (optimum compaction low volume) frame uses Trek's favoured construction method to minimise the quantity of resin and carbon needed and produce a light, strong frame. A giant BB86.5 bottom bracket allows the down tube to fill almost all of the width between the cranks, necessitating protective shields on the chainstay and down tube to guard against an unshipped chain.

The right fork leg incorporates an ANT+ compatible Speed Trap speed sensor, while Trek's neat hidden dropout mounts allow full-length mudguards to be fitted.

The Trek is available with an all- Shimano drivetrain or SRAM; our model came with Shimano 105 plus a Tiagra front mech and SRAM GXP compact chainset.

Braking is courtesy of some unbranded, mudguard-friendly long-reach dual-pivot callipers. The drivetrain works well together, and benefits from the chainset's 30mm axle that makes good use of that super-sized bottom bracket shell, but it does have a bit of a parts bin feel to it.

The Madone's ride quality is firm but composed over rougher road surfaces and unerringly stable, but with an excellent feel and a rapidity that shows its long racing lineage. The handling while cornering and descending is surefooted, but could be improved by more positive brakes.

With a 30t sprocket, the lowest gear should conquer the steepest climbs, but the Bontrager Approved wheels aren't the most willing climbers and seem to dull efforts, putting them at odds with the frame. Overall, the Trek's slightly docile character lends itself to lengthy rides, but there's a racer lurking within that some faster hoops could release.

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Is Trek Madone 3.1 WSD A Good Bike? [Trek Madone 3.1 WSD Review]

Table of Contents

Trek Madone 3.1 WSD

• Price:  $1980
• Category:  Aero Bikes
• Frame:  Ultra-light 300 Series Alpha Aluminum
• Gear:  2×10
• Tires:  700x23c

What we like  about it : The perfect fit of speed and comfort creates a quality body for the ultimate riding experience.

What we don’t like about it:  Overly expensive prices.

Rating: (4.6/5)

Introduction

“The Trek Madone 3.1 WSD Compact is a goat with unlimited energy” is what photographer Tom said about it. And if you are a road bike follower, then the Trek Madone 3.1 WSD Compact may meet your expectations.

The OCLV carbon frame of the 300 series is a unique part of the Trek, with a lighter body than its previous version (the Trek Madone 2.1 H2 Compact). You can use the Trek Madone 3.1 WSD for some small road competition, while the Shimano 105 STI and 10-speed drivetrain still deliver satisfying traction.

The 10-speed drivetrain still delivers satisfying traction, and you can make butter-smooth shifts with just a gentle slide of the shimmy. Further, the 700x23c tires stay small while allowing for fast rotation on gravel roads.

We have two months of measurement experience with the Trek Madone 3.1 WSD. So, to make the results more informative for you, we will elaborate on the performance, key features, components, and specifications of the Trek Madone 3.1 WSD while riding, as well as other versions of the series. If you want to know more about the versions, please refer to our review.

General Riding

I have to admit that the carbon fiber of the 300 series has more damping and stabilization than the previous version. The Trek Madone 3.1 WSD is also equipped with Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite tires, which have a unique anti-puncture system to ensure that the rider can go on gravel roads.

The flat stretch of road leading to Silver Star Park became the first hurdle in our test. In fact, the Trek Madone 3.1 WSD was perfect, starting with its unparalleled comfort, the 300 series OCLV carbon frame kept the body extremely light. And I was able to easily lift the Trek Madone 3.1 WSD even over some impassable roadblocks.

The Bontrager Comp VR-S handlebars are built specifically for the road, with a shallow bend and reach optimized for riders who don’t like an aggressive stance, allowing me to maintain a relatively stable and comfortable seating position on some climbing sections.

At the same time, the Shimano 105 derailleur is absolutely lightweight, measured at 235g, which doesn’t bother the Trek Madone 3.1 WSD. So I can do some difficult riding stunts on the road.

Five kilometers is not a short ride, but I rode slowly because I enjoyed my time on the Trek Madone 3.1 WSD. The most enjoyable part of the day, marching slowly towards home in the gentle cool spring breeze.

Gravel Riding

The Trek Madone 3.1 WSD not only performs satisfactorily on flat roads but is also commendable on gravel roads. As a road bike, in addition to the OCLV carbon frame, it is also equipped with Trek’s custom carbon fiber fork specifically designed for the road, which provides a clean look while meeting the aerodynamic design.

The collision between the gravel and the body did not deter me as I made my wild adventure moves on the bumpy flowing trails, and the greater vibration would fade as the fork moved up and down.

Of course, the Trek Madone 3.1 WSD brings more surprises than that.

The Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite is also the “hidden important player”. Because the R1 tire is the perfect replacement tire for road bikes or city commuters, achieving the perfect combination of value and performance.

As you know, monthly tire repair costs have always been a headache for me. However, with the Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite, there’s no need to worry about that. It features a 60TPI case and Hard-Case Lite puncture protection for reduced weight and increased durability.

I enjoyed the light bumps and jolts and it gave me the courage and confidence to keep going. It’s worth mentioning that during my final sprint, I came across a monolith that came into view almost instantly, and I immediately tightened the valve cable and applied the emergency brake.

The alloy dual-pivot is satisfying and I was able to stop it perfectly without applying too much force. It achieves a lightweight, compact and durable braking system. Also, the dual-pivot caliper brakes have made great strides in reducing tolerances and offsets as well as durability.

Main Features

Although it is a 7-year-old bike, the Trek Madone 3.1 is a stunning presence in terms of stylish construction even now. Black, white and blue are mixed into the body, and the white seat cushion with black seat post gives a smooth and neat impression.

The carbon fiber construction of the 300 Series makes it light enough to be easily lifted, while its damping capabilities allow the rider to take on those tricky bumps.

Of course, you can also install a water bottle device at the down tube as well as the rear tube to solve the problem of insufficient water supply in your daily travel.

Even when it’s raining, the Trek Madone 3.1 is ready for anything. If you hate having debris and mud invade your clothes on wet roads, then fenders are also essential.

Components and Specifications

Shimano 105 sti, 10-speed drivetrain.

It’s hard to imagine that seven years ago, Shimano had such a well-developed drivetrain setup. And through Shimano’s unique artistic aesthetic, it is smooth, natural, and light in its construction, giving it an artistic aesthetic. Shimano 105 STI, 10-speed has a special kit with internal gear cables that have been lubricated with silicon to improve its own extended performance.

The ergonomic shape makes them compatible with all Shimano 10-speed components, and if they get damaged in the process, you can upgrade or find replacements at the Shimano brand store. And I wouldn’t worry too much about its service life.

Trek carbon road Front Fork

In addition to the front fork, the Trek Madone 3.1 WSD doesn’t disappoint road riders with its unique carbon construction. The fork has SpeedTrap sensor integration so you can react quickly based on distance and speed without the complicated add-on mounts required by other sensors.

With lighter weight components and better shock absorption, it provides the ultimate shock absorption experience, even on a moving trail of Yellowstone clay. It can return to the starting position faster even under continuous violent ramming.

At the same time, it has a rougher tire surface when encountering steep roads, and even on a road full of gravel, I can feel that there is no more extreme vibration that comes when the body hits the ground.

Alloy dual-pivot Brake

Alloy dual-pivot is the unique design of Trek Madone 3.1, with a lightweight, compact and durable braking system. Also, the dual-pivot caliper brake has made great strides in reducing tolerances and deflection as well as durability. Even slippery mossy roads can be braked peacefully and calmly.

At the same time, in terms of service life, we have also conducted sufficient testing, and the results are also satisfactory. My actual experience experience is that after six months of riding with the alloy dual pivot, it still has solid construction and high performance.

Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite Tires

The Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite is a regular on Trek bikes, with high performance, high value, and longevity enough to take its place in the bike market. As a road-specific tire, its wear resistance speaks for itself.

The puncture-resistant tire setup reduces weight while increasing the durability of the Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite itself. The low rolling resistance and excellent cornering grip allow you to maintain the ultimate balance even on fast-moving winding trails.

Other Versions of Trek Madone 3.1

In order to give you more possibilities to choose from, we tested other models of the Trek Madone 3.1 series for a certain period of time, including the Trek Madone 2.1 H2 Compact, in an objective and fair manner.

First of all, the Trek Madone 2.1 doesn’t follow the market trend of choosing a more affordable aluminum alloy, so it may not be as good in terms of weight and shock absorption.

The physiological structure also encompasses female riders, making it stand out from the rest of the bike competition, which of course means you’ll have to spend more dollars.

What do we like about it?

1. The slim Bontrager R1 offers you the ultimate in swift riding.

2. 300 Series carbon fiber construction keeps the body light.

3. The Trek carbon road fork is designed for road use to provide the ultimate shock absorption.

4. Alloy dual-pivot is more compact, durable, and provides you with emergency braking.

5. Different body frames are made specifically for men and women with different physiological structures.

What we don’t like about it?

1. Rarer color options.

2. Relatively expensive price.

3. Overly slim tire size.

Accessories

Comparison Table

Trek madone 3.1 vs scott foil 20.

As the king of road bikes, the Scott Foil 20 is always the best in competition, and a big part of this is reflected in its unparalleled speed (66km/h after our review). 

At the same time, the Scott Foil 20 also chooses the more advanced Ultegra in the choice of the groupset, which has a faster, more agile, and quicker shifting experience in the actual riding experience. But the only regret is that the 2x system may be too complicated for riding.

In the next upgrade, the more advanced 1x may be a good choice, and I don’t mind spending more money on it.

Trek Madone 3.1 vs Orbea ORCA AERO M30TEAM-D

Carbon frame aero bikes with mid- to high-grade components and hydraulic disc brakes.

The Orbea ORCA AERO M30TEAM-D still has a good riding experience. The first is its speed, 63km/h can still add competitiveness to your road race. The adjustable geometry is also a highlight, as you can adjust the seat tube and the distance from the BB center of gravity to the ground according to your height.

This is an extremely important setting for comfort. Typical Orbea components will allow you to come out on top in various bike races. The Orbea ORCA AERO M30TEAM-D may also be an option for you if you have the money to spend.

Learn more : Is Orbea AVANT H60 A Good Choice? -[Orbea AVANT H60 Review]

Madone 3.1 WSD Compact vs Fuji Transonic 2.1 Rim

The birth of the Fuji Transonic 2.1 Rim can be traced back to the 19th century. By the 1920s, it was the largest bicycle brand in Japan. Through generations of heritage and improvements, the Fuji Transonic 2.1 Rim has become a unique presence on the road.

The carbon construction allows you to travel steadily even on gravel roads. The bodywork is clean and simple, with no exposed cables and a wide range of convergence, making it look fresher and smoother.

Additionally, the 700x28c tires have a more stable body condition than the Trek Madone 3.1. The wheels keep rolling while keeping the body steadily moving forward, and the steering operation is quick and sensitive even in the face of sharp turns.

Trek Madone 3.1 vs Merida REACTO RIVAL-EDITION

In the ranks of road bikes Merida REACTO RIVAL-EDITION, may not be cheap, but the extreme ride it gives you will be incomparable. The 557mm of stack is suitable for those of a larger size, allowing you to maintain a relatively comfortable flex angle while riding fast.

Unlike other road bikes, it’s an electronic drivetrain, an innovative upgrade in personality, and the powerful SRAM Rival AXS power meter maintains great forward momentum, so you don’t have to worry about tangled cable configurations in front of you hindering your ascent and descent.

Of course, the SRAM Rival also gives it an extremely long life, helping you to maintain great pedaling efficiency during your trip without having to worry about the chain coming off. If you are looking for a high-tech riding experience, then the Merida REACTO RIVAL-EDITION has every chance to be your next bike.

Learn more : Is Merida REACTO 6000 Worth Buying? – [Merida REACTO 6000 Review]

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Review: The New Trek Madone Is Extra Smooth and Still Very Fast

The emonda dies and the trek madone is once again the all-around race bike, but all i can ask is how can a bike this fast be this comfortable.

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• Incredibly comfortable.
• Project One build customization.
• Clever aero cage system with real benefit.
• Size specific ride tuning.
• Weighs within 40 grams of previous Emonda.
• Faster than previous Madone.
• High quality outfront mount.
• Power meter included with SRAM builds.
• Stiff when standing.
• Universal derailleur hanger.
• Narrow handlebar diameter as it exists the controls.
• Smooth ride lacks engagement.

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The Trek Madone is one of the most recognizable modern race bikes on the market today.

It came to market in 2003 with a name pulled from a French climb and was quickly synonymous with winning under Lance Armstrong. Those were the early days of carbon fiber and long before aero was everything.

Although the tubes used carbon, they were still mostly round and the Madone was Trek’s do-everything race bike. In 2016, everything changed.

Although the Madone had added aero details steadily since around 2012, weight had remained important. Then the Emonda came to market as a climber’s bike with weight as the ultimate goal. The new bike gave the Madone a new freedom. Aero was everything, weight didn’t matter, and the 2016 Trek Madone was completely different.

Today, eight years later, everything changes again. The Trek Madone is returning to its roots as an all-around race bike and the Emonda is disappearing.

Trek will tell you this is purely because of innovation but it’s largely a result of the UCI keeping the minimum bike weight (6.8kg/15 pounds) unchanged. More and more brands have managed to hit the minimum weight without sacrificing aero performance. The Emonda is no longer needed to offer what the Madone can’t — at least so long as the UCI minimum weight remains the same.

To understand what that means, my latest bike review is the updated Gen 8 Trek Madone I’ve been riding for close to a month now. I tested a top-spec Trek Madone SLR 9 AXS and what I found is that the Emonda disappearing is only a small footnote in the details of this bike. Nearly everything about the 2025 model year Trek Madone is new and the result is a bike unlike anything else.

As a final goodbye to the bike, I attempted to take it on a 230-mile trip to the beach and back. Things didn’t quite work out as planned, but my time with the Trek Madone was spent marveling at how smooth and comfortable it is. If you are looking for a new road bike this summer, keep reading to see what works and what doesn’t on the latest Madone.

Quick hits: standout details of the Trek Madone SLR 9 AXS

• More aero than a Gen 7 Madone and nearly as light as the Emonda.
• For that reason the Emonda is leaving the Trek lineup.
• Comfort is the most noticeable part of the ride experience.
• There’s a high quality outfront mount.
• Power meter is included with SRAM builds.
• Aero cages will take standard bottles.
• Trek Project One allows you to get the exact bike you want.
• Sizing changes from numbers to T-shirt style of small, medium, etc.

Trek Madone SLR 9 AXS frame details

The Gen 8 Trek Madone, is an attempt by Trek to turn back the clock. The Emonda came to market as a solution for a problem. Now there’s a better solution and Trek is recombining the Madone and the Emonda. The question is, can you do that without losing anything?

To answer that, Trek started by looking to add aerodynamics to the Emonda. Pretty quickly it was clear that a weight first focus wouldn’t cut it. You can add aerodynamics to a lightweight frame but it’s not as difficult as it once was to match the UCI minimum weight. A brand either has to blow past the UCI weight limit, ala the Specialized Aethos , or make an aero bike just light enough.

Having once again proven that, Trek started expanding the possibilities. Instead of a new Emonda, the goal was now to create a bike that was faster than both the Emonda and the Madone on any gradient between zero and 12 percent.

To get there, Trek developed a pair of algorithms that would both develop cross section shapes and test them. You can think of it as a brute force attack on aerodynamics and it allowed a speed of testing that would otherwise be impossible. This process led to a new shape called “Pareto” that’s more square than previously thought efficient. It minimizes weight while maximizing aerodynamics and it provides a range of options.

With that in mind, the next stage of development was to use those new building blocks to create a bike. Some of the shapes identified were lighter, some more aero, and the team used a combination of CFD and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to find the best places for different shapes. Instead of simply trying to use the most aero option at every opportunity, Trek instead takes a system approach the brand is calling “Full System Foil.”

The idea here is that air flows at different speeds around different parts of the bike. Interactions at the front of the bike, or with the rider, sometimes slow it down and sometimes speed it up. Knowing this means different solutions are needed in different places. A chunky downtube that’s lighter and less aero makes sense because the front wheel slows the air. This slower air means low-drag shapes are less important for the downtube. At the same time, the legs of the rider actually speed up the airflow as it passes through. For that reason the area where you’d normally find a seat tube and post benefits from aero shapes and Trek uses the isoFlow design with aero shapes for the seat mast and post.

The last example Trek gives is the new Aero RSL Road integrated bar/stem. This is another piece that’s actually slower if you look at it in isolation. That increased drag is intentional though. According to Trek, the “wake of the thicker handlebar slightly reduces drag on the pedaling legs by slowing down the air in front of them.” Given that a rider’s legs are a bigger drag contributor, the net effect is a gain.

Overall, those little details are the point. Each little aero detail adds up and Trek quotes a 0.1 watt saving at 22 mph for the Madone Gen 8 vs Gen 7. If that sounds small, it is — but a win is a win and the numbers compared to the old Madone aren’t that important anyway. The place where you see bigger numbers is when compared to the Emonda. That comparison shows an 11.3 watt advantage at 22 mph while also dropping the weight to a 36 gram penalty for the vastly more aero bike. If you are curious, there’s also a savings of 322 grams for the frame and fork when compared to the Gen 7 Madone.

Trek Madone SLR Geometry

Although the various geometry options disappeared before this generation, that continues. There’s no longer a reference to various names and it’s the same as the previous h1.5. There’s also less sizes covering more range with a move from eight options, labeled using the seat tube length, down to six options labeled XS-XL. As you move up and down those sizes, Trek is offering size-specific tube shapes to go with them. Smaller and larger bikes will now have better balanced stiffness, better aesthetics, and actual wind tunnel testing.

Builds and pricing

Frame: 900 Series OCLV Carbon, Full System Foil tube shaping, IsoFlow seat tube, RCS Headset System, electronic-only routing, removable aero chainkeeper, T47 BB, flat mount disc, UDH, 142x12mm thru axle

Fork: Madone Gen 8 full carbon, tapered carbon steerer, internal brake routing, flat mount disc, 12x100mm chamfered thru axle

Shared with every build option: T47 bottom bracket standard, RSL Aero Bottle and Cage system, UDH (universal derailleur hanger), 32 mm max tyre clearance

Frame: 500 Series OCLV Carbon, Full System Foil tube shaping, IsoFlow seat tube, RCS Headset System, electronic or mechanical routing, removable aero chainkeeper, T47 BB, flat mount disc, UDH, 142x12mm thru axle

Shared with every build option: T47 bottom bracket standard, UDH (universal derailleur hanger), 32 mm max tyre clearance

Trek Madone build details

One of the innovations that comes to the Gen 8 Trek Madone is the new full carbon one-piece fork. The same fork comes on every model of the bike but there’s also an updated 900 series OCLV carbon only available for the SLR builds. Along with the new carbon, the SLR builds also bring the addition of the one-piece bar and stem, electronic only groupset compatibility, and the aero bottle system. If you do decide to start with an SL build, the bar/stem and the aero bottle system are available as aftermarket accessories.

Among the build options you will also find customization options. If you prefer a frameset only, there’s one available in both carbon options. If you’d rather have a complete build but you want to customize the details, check out Project One. If you, like me, prefer better climbing gears and a 1:1 ratio, you could change the gearing that comes with your bike as well as any other sizing details. You can also adjust components up or down and there’s plenty of paint options. Depending on budget you can stick to picking a simple color scheme for no up-charge or take a look at the Project One ICON series premium paint schemes. Launching with the bike is a new option in that lineup called Chroma Interstellar.

Ride experience

Sometimes testing doesn’t go according to plan. My plan with this bike was to cap off more than a month of riding with it by doing a roughly 230-mile ride from my house to the coast and back. I’d written headlines talking about spending 15-hours (just a guess) on it and I’d prepared the bike. After 10 miles, my riding partner and I collided, the bike went down, and the UDH broke. The ride was over. I could hide that but I think there’s value in what it says about the Trek Madone Gen 8 even if it didn’t go off as planned.

The idea of the trip came to me because of how this bike felt. From the very first moment I swung my leg over it, I was immediately blown away by how smooth it is. The terrible pavement as I leave my neighborhood is nearly imperceptible on the Madone. As I went over a rough wooden bridge on a later ride I realized that it was actually a moment I could attack as my buddy slowed. At one point I even started to wonder how well it would do off-road on its max 32 mm tires.

I initially worried that it was smooth because it had a lot of flex but as soon as you stand, you know that’s not the case. My notes from those early rides are all questions trying to get to the bottom of when it feels stiff vs compliant. The more I tested, the more amazed I was with the dual nature of the latest Madone.

If you cruise with it, it’s smooth and comfortable. If you push it, the bike responds. Stand to sprint and it feels like a different bike. When it’s time to climb, the 6.9kg (as measured ready to ride minus pedals) and stiff frame are willing partners. This dual nature is backed up with a comfortable riding position as well.

Like with the Enve Melee , holding the tops puts you somewhat upright. Trek counters the upright position with the Trek Aero RSL Road integrated bar/stem that uses a proven trick of simply being narrow. Size it like other bars on the market and you’ll notice narrower hoods that provide a big aero upgrade. I tend to find this unnoticeable and, given it’s faster, that’s a good thing. The only detail I would love to see addressed is the narrow, rounded, nature of the bar immediately behind the controls. If this was my bike, I’d want to add a bit more padding right there.

As far as the rest of the finishing kit goes, there’s not a single detail I can complain about. Bontrager Aeolus Pro 51 TLR Disc Road Wheel shrugged off crosswinds and felt fast. The Aero bottles are very usable plus offer an easy 3ish watts savings depending on speed (3.7 watts at 45 km/h) and I love the outfront mount. That’s something I often complain about because it can be such an annoyance when it’s not right, but this time Trek nailed it. Even the included saddle is great and actually a piece I’ve used on other bikes a number of times over the years. If any of those details, including specifics like gearing, aren’t quite right for you, then Project One will fix it without issue.

The Gen 8 Trek Madone is the kind of bike I want to share with you. When I packed it up to head to the beach, I swapped out the aero bottles for a set of HydraPak Breakaway+ 30oz bottles (with the filter swapped for standard tops) and it just worked without issue. Then I added the light mount and attached an Outbound Lighting Detour . Again, everything just worked.

That idea of things just working is what I look for in a bike. Trek wants to talk about smashing an aero bike and a climbing bike together but that’s only part of the story. The Madone is so comfortable, smooth, and usable that Trek is really offering one bike to cover all of your needs. If you want to do some kind of huge ride, that’s a five-minute swap from fast bike to long distance bike. If you want to take a bike out climbing grab this one. If you have a fast and flat day, the Madone works there too.

However you decide to use it, Trek thought through all the little details. Creating a good quality outfront mount is a small thing that has a big impact on your experience of riding a bike, Trek nailed that for you. There’s aero bottles but they are good for drinking water and you can also use standard bottles if you need to. You can go fast or slow over rough or smooth pavement and the Gen 8 Trek Madone is a capable partner. If there’s anything you want changed, Trek makes it easy to customize your build. Even the builds with included power meter are part of the picture. Nothing ever feels cheap and, sadly, that’s not always true even on a bike this expensive.

The only thing that kept sticking in my mind during this test was whether I wanted a bike this smooth all the time. The first time I took it out I’d just gotten off my Look 795 Blade RS while testing the Specialized Roval Rapide CLX II wheels. The Trek is just as fast, I actually matched my fastest time, but it doesn’t feel as fast. The Look is a visceral ride with controls that are two inches lower. It’s not smooth, it requires a good stretch before and after a ride, and the combination of those wheels and the Hope RX4+ brakes make for a lot of noises. When you ride that bike, you feel like you are pulling the performance out of it. The Trek Madone is just as fast but it lacks all the drama. Is that a good thing?

Would you prefer a bike that’s borderline uncomfortable but very engaging or a bike that’s precise and smooth but feels a little less heroic? If you want a go fast bike that can do anything you ask, no drama included, check out the latest Trek Madone.

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Shop new & used Trek Madone bikes at TPC - The Pro's Closet. Find reviews, specs, weight info, prices and size charts on various models (SLR 9, 7) and popular years (2018, 2021, etc). Read our Trek Madone Quick-Take Review below.

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Trek Madone SLR Gen 7 - Weight, Specs, Price

Trek madone 3rd party reviews ,   trek madone size chart, 2022 trek madone review - a tpc rider's quick take.

• Aero masterclass
• Trek engineers locked themselves in a wind tunnel with this bike. Every curve, edge, and component shouts aerodynamics. From the IsoFlow tech to the one-piece aero bar and stem this bike is designed for slicing through air.
• IsoFlow Comfort
• One of the standout features of the Madone is Trek’s IsoFlow technology, which makes for a forgiving ride, especially on longer epics. IsoFlow helps the seatmast flex, soaking up road vibrations. It’s rare for a speed-focused road bike to excel in comfort, yet here we are.
• Integrated everything
• In the Madone, the term "fully integrated" is taken to new heights. From the cables to the cockpit, everything is tucked away, contributing not just to aerodynamics but also to a jaw-dropping aesthetic.
• Speed and beauty come at a cost. The Madone’s premium price could act as a barrier for many. It's a serious investment, and budget-friendly aero options are out there.
• Price: $7,999 (SLR 6)
• Weight woes
• Despite the carbon fiber frame and components, the Madone isn't a featherweight in its category. It's a solid build, but riders focused on climbing might find it a tad on the heavier side.
• Weight: 17lbs (56cm)
• Versatility questions
• While the Madone excels on flat terrain and downhill blasts, it's not the most versatile option for a wide range of riding conditions. Climbers and those who encounter varying terrain may find it limiting.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. How we test gear.

Trek Does It All with the New Madone

Trek’s new eighth-generation Madone is lightweight, aerodynamic, and fast—the road bike raced by Lidl-Trek in the 2024 Tour de France.

Takeaway: For the eighth iteration of its legendary Madone road bike, Trek blended the low weight of the Emonda with the aerodynamics of the seventh-generation Madone. The result is a light, stiff, and fast all-around race bike. While the flagship SLR9 costs over $13,000, base-level Madone SL models start at $3,500.

Price as Tested: $13,500 Weight: 15.3 lbs (Size M, bottle cages, computer mount, no pedals)

Trek Madone SLR 9 AXS Gen 8

When leaked images of the eight-generation Madone first appeared online, there was much speculation that this new road bike was the next generation of Trek’s Émonda lightweight climbing bike. After all, Trek launched the seventh-generation Madone only two years ago, so it seemed logical that the next bike due for an update was the Émonda.

Jordan Roessingh, Director for Road Bikes at Trek, candidly confirmed that the new Madone actually started life as the next Émonda. “We constantly get the same feedback from our pro riders,” Roessingh said. “They tell us that they love how fast the Madone is, but could we make it lighter or they love how light the Émonda is, but could we make it more aero?”

Trek set out to make a more aerodynamic Émonda, and what they ended up with was a bike that had the same frame weight as the Émonda but was as quick as the Madone against the wind.

When your aero bike is as light as your climbing bike, or your climbing bike is as aero as your aero bike, there doesn’t seem to be a point to having two bikes anymore. So, while fans of the Émonda might be sad to see the bike go, it makes way for the return of the Madone as the ultimate road racing bike in Trek’s lineup. And this feels right, given the rich history of the Madone name.

Since it launched in 2003, the Madone name has always designated Trek’s fastest drop-bar race bike. That has meant different things at different points, with older models of the Madone leaning heavily on low weight and high stiffness while more recent models became all-out aero. Now that Trek returns the Madone to a do-it-all role, is it the best road racing bike Trek can make?

After spending the last two months riding the new Madone 8, my short answer is yes.

The new bike delivers the performance I expect from a five-figure top-of-line road bike made by a brand like Trek. For the steep price of entry, you get a bike that manages to be damn near perfect in terms of weight, stiffness, and road manners. And while all of that is important, it would matter little to bike racers (for whom the Madone is explicitly designed) if it wasn’t also fast.

Based on Trek’s provided data and my testing, the new Madone is definitely fast. But that declaration comes with a long list of caveats.

Speed is Aerodynamics In 2024

In 2011, Specialized first told us that “Aero is everything.” Knowing what I know now about the importance of aerodynamics in the context of racing, they certainly weren’t wrong. But marketing slogans are made to be catchy and concise and “Aero is everything until you build a bike that’s really heavy and doesn’t ride all that well. So maybe a bike that prioritizes aerodynamics without sacrificing weight and ride quality would be better,” does not quite roll off the tongue as easily.

Trek claims that the new Madone is as fast as the previous generation and is heaps quicker than the Émonda. The strategy to achieve this aerodynamic performance is called “Full System Foil,” where the bike is viewed not only as a cross-section of its tube shapes but as a much larger airfoil shape that includes the water bottles and wheels.

This isn’t a particularly new or earth-shattering concept. Manufacturers have designed (or at least tested) their frames around specific wheels (usually their own) for a while now. Using water bottles to fill the space between the down tube and the seat tube to smooth the airflow over a frame is also not new. It has been done on time trial and triathlon bikes for years. BMC has done it on their aero-focused time machine road bike since 2018. Cannondale recently introduced aerodynamic water bottles and cages on its all-around race bike, the SuperSix Evo , in 2023.

The cynical reading of what Trek does with the new Madone and its aerodynamic performance claims relative to the previous (and more obviously aerodynamic Madone Gen 7) is that directly comparing the two bikes is not apples-to-apples.

Trek’s claimed figures use a Madone 8 with the brand’s new aero bottles versus a Madone 7 with round bidons. In this comparison, the new Madone (at straighter yaw angles) is slightly faster than the outgoing Madone. At higher yaw angles (beyond 10º), the deeper frame tubes of the Madone 7 make it quicker than the new Madone. And when comparing the new and old Madone, with both bikes using round bottles, the results flip. According to Trek, the Madone 7 is about 1.6 watts more slippery at 22 mph.

It’s also worth dwelling for a moment on the yaw angle differences. My colleague Matt Phillips pointed this out in his review of the Specialized Tarmac SL8 , another new bike that balances optimizing aerodynamics, ride comfort, and weight. In that review, Matt points out that a rider’s speed affects the wind angles they encounter. Pro riders naturally encounter more direct (low yaw) wind angles because they (typically) ride much faster than amateur riders. Riders moving at slower average speeds will more likely encounter higher wind angles.

Trek’s aerodynamic claims for the Madone 8 are based on a rider moving at 22 mph. That is more real-world than Specialized data for the Tarmac SL8, which is based on someone moving at 28 mph.

Still, 22 mph is plenty fast for a lot of people. My rides typically average about 18 mph. At slower speeds, where the rider is more likely to encounter higher yaw angles of wind, the previous Madone will likely be faster. Strap the new Aero bottles on it, and it will almost certainly be quicker than the new Madone regardless of the wind derection.

But the gains in the Madone 8’s aerodynamics are not only down to the water bottles. Trek also introduced a new handlebar, which, when tested in isolation (without a rider on the bike), is slower than the previous handlebar. However, as part of the system with a rider on the bike, the new taller and blunter profile measures faster as it helps to smooth the airflow over the rider’s legs.

If I stop being a cycling media cynic for a minute, I can see where Trek comes from in how it designed the new Madone. Sure, there is broad acceptance across cycling to the benefits of aerodynamics, yet despite this, riders still love lightweight and snappy-feeling bicycles. With the design and packaging of the new Madone, Trek can say that the new bike is faster.

However, the issue with judging aerodynamic gains is the numerous “it depends” moments. Most of these depend on how each individual bike is equipped for testing. Using aero bottles for one frame but round ones for another is obvious, but even something less apparent, like a different handlebar shape or a different-sized rider (if you’re testing with a rider), could give different results.

To put it in perspective, Trek claims the new bike is 1.6 watts faster at 22 mph. That’s not nothing. But it’s also fair to point to the basically square downtube of the new Madone and say that Trek perhaps has left some potential aerodynamic gains on the table to make a lighter and better riding bike. And to be perfectly honest, I’m not that upset about it.

New Sizing, Similar Geometry

Long-time Trek fans will remember when the brand offered two different fits on its top-of-the-line road bikes: H1 fit, designed for pro athletes, and H2 for the riding public. This gave riders a choice of stack and reach figures. The H1 and H2 fits were eventually consolidated into what Trek dubbed H1.5. But the H1.5 designation didn’t make a ton of sense (since it referred to a geometry philosophy that no longer existed), so Trek rebranded H1.5 into “Road Race” geometry.

This rebrand comes with Trek changing its numeral sizing (51, 53, 55, etc) to T-shirt sizing (XS, S, M, etc). This is another change that makes sense to me as modern bikes rarely have a tube on them that actually measures close to their designated size number.

The big geometry shake-up with the new Madone is that Trek reduced the bike from eight sizes on the Madone 7 to six. This was accomplished by merging the 52cm and 54cm sizes into a Medium option and the 60cm and 62cm sizes into an Extra Large. Brands often reduce model options at each end of the size spectrum (to the detriment of shorter or taller riders), so it’s unsurprising that Trek merged the 60cm and 62cm. But it surprised me to see the 52cm and 54cm sizes combined.

Looking closer at the two sizes from the previous generation Madone, I was shocked at how close they were to each other. The bikes had only a 3mm difference in reach and an 8mm difference in stack. The new frame size has a few millimeters more stack than the old 54cm and 1mm more reach than the old 52cm.

I’m a rider who often chooses between these two sizes. For example, I’m happy to ride 54cm bikes from Specialized while I opt for 52cm frames from other brands like Enve or a size S from Giant. The new Medium-sized Madone I tested worked very well when paired with a 110mm stem and a zero-offset seatpost.

Still, I expect the merging of two sizes right in the middle of the size range, despite how close they are in practice, will cause some consternation for riders.

Models and Pricing

Trek offers the new Madone in nine complete bike builds and two frameset options. These are split between the more affordable Madone SL and a higher-end Madone SLR. Both bikes share the same frame shape and geometry, but the Madone SL uses a heavier 500 series OCLV carbon compared to the Madone SLR’s 900 series.

All versions of the Madone SL come equipped with a standard two-piece bar and stem. Riders who want the full aero benefits of the new bike will have to buy the aero bottles separately. A single bottle and cage set is $100, with replacement bottles at $25 each.

Four complete Madone SL bikes are offered, starting with the Madone SL 5 ($3,500), which features mechanical shifting using Shimano’s 12-speed 105.

The Madone SL 6 costs $5,500 and comes with a Shimano 105 Di2 groupset and Bontrager Aeolus Elite 35 carbon wheels. There is also a SRAM Rival AXS build of the Madone SL 6, which costs an additional $500.

At the top of the SL range is the Madone SL 7 ($6,500). This model upgrades to a Shimano Ultegra Di2 groupset, plus it uses a carbon handlebar and the deeper Bontrager Aeolus Pro 51 carbon wheels.

Next on the price pyramid is the Madone SLR 7 ($9,000). It features the same build kit as the SL 7, but for the extra $2,500, riders get the lighter-weight SLR frame, the aero bottles, nicer tires, and the one-piece RSL bar/stem. For $500 more, riders can opt for a SRAM Force AXS version of the same bike.

Finally, there are the SLR 9 flagship options. Riders can choose a Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 bike for $13,000 or one with the new SRAM Red AXS for $13,500.

Riders looking to do a frame-up build can pick between the Madone SL frameset, which costs $3,000, and the Madone SLR frameset at $6,000.

Ride Impressions

I don’t think there’s any point in dancing around it, Trek made a good bike with the latest version of the Madone—which is hardly a surprise. When you’re twenty-one years into developing a platform and are on the eighth version of it, I’m not going to say it’s impossible to make it bad, but it’s certainly difficult. This expertise, combined with wider tires that make current road racing bikes ride more comfortably than bikes from only a few years prior, I expected the new Madone to impress. And it delivered.

The new Madone is a big step forward from the previous generation Madone 7 in its enjoyability. Stomp on the pedals and the new Madone has plenty of snap, but crucially, it is vastly superior in seated comfort compared to the 7.

I complained about Trek shipping the previous Madone with 25mm wide tires, which honestly felt insane to me back in 2022 when I tested the bike. Thankfully, the new Madone ships with 28mm rubber that measures 29.5mm on the Bontrager Aeolus RSL 51 wheels. The wider tires certainly help with how pleasant the new bike feels on the road, but you still wouldn’t mistake the Madone for an endurance bike. This race bike provides excellent road feedback to the rider. You don’t float over the road on the new Madone, but it doesn’t beat you up while riding.

The next big thing I felt about the new Madone was its low weight. I clearly remember testing the Madone 7 (only two years ago), that top-level build with SRAM Red and the same wheels was 16.2 pounds (without pedals, cages, or a computer mount). The new Madone 8 I rode is nearly a pound lighter at 15.3 lbs. And impressively, that weight includes the aero bottle cages and a computer mount (but not pedals).

While we know that, empirically, bike weight has a much smaller impact on performance than we think, a lighter bike still feels awesome. When a brand charges five figures for a road bike, it should be really close to, if not below, the UCI minimum bike weight of 14.99 lbs. The previous generation Madone was never in danger of falling under that weight limit, but the new Madone should comfortably hit it with a lighter set of wheels and one or two other weight weenie changes. The Madone’s low weight and stiffness make it a fun bike to ride uphill.

Thankfully, Trek did not change the Madone 8’s handling compared to the previous version. It’s still an exceptionally well-balanced bike. Racers will find steering that, while rapid, isn’t a handful. The Madone is very stable at speed while remaining exceptionally reactive to rider inputs.

I logged quite a few miles on the new Madone and while I know that sensations are not statistics, the new Madone feels very fast. On a flat and fast weekly group ride I do, I found myself rolling off the front of the group when it was my turn to take a pull at the front. Despite the lack of deep aero tubes, the new Madone certainly has the sensation of speed that the best aero race bikes often possess. It’s best described as feeling like you’re riding with a permanent tailwind.

Conclusions on the New Madone

Combining two bikes into one is a surefire way to leave some cyclists wanting more. Some will want a more aerodynamic Madone. While others will rightly point out that Trek could have made an even lighter bike. However, the demands of modern racing often require a bike that is both aerodynamic and lightweight.

I appreciate the raw speed of an all-out aero bike. Yet bikes like that are never at the top of my dream bike ownership list. Instead, I’ve gravitated to more all-around performers, if not straight-up weight weenie dream bikes like the Specialized Aethos .

This is probably why I don’t mind Trek going with the happy medium. Even though a true Émonda rider would have wanted Trek to make the Émonda platform lighter versus more aero, I agree with Trek that the majority of Madone 7 riders—and most road riders in general—will appreciate the new Madone’s big weight reduction without taking a massive aerodynamic hit (at least on paper).

For riders with the taste and budget for this bike, the new Madone won’t disappoint. It’s a great road bike capable of competing at the highest level while offering an alternative to other high-end, do-it-all lightweight aero bikes, like the Pinarello Dogma F, Specialized Tarmac SL8, or Factor’s Ostro Vam. For cyclists seeking a bike like this but on a more limited budget, Trek offers one of the lowest-priced entry points into a high-end race bike its $3,500 Madone SL 5.

So, while the eighth-generation Madone might not be for everyone, Trek at least offers its latest race bike in a broader range of prices than the previous version, and that’s something worth celebrating.

Notes From the Field

Random observations from my time testing the bike..

• Considering how important the new bottles are to the aero performance of the new Madone, it’s worth discussing them. There is an adjustment time to become accustomed to getting them in and out of the aero cages. The actual hold feels extremely secure. If anything, they are a bit harder to get in and out than I want them to be, but I got used to them after a few weeks of riding. My only real gripe with them is the valve. It takes more force to open and close than I want. Plus, the flow isn’t that great. A minor annoyance is that you can’t stand the bottles on their end to fill them. Fortunately, the aero cages can hold a traditional round bottle, or you can ditch the bottle and cages altogether if the extra aero gains aren’t that important to you.
• Given I recently wrote a story on every bike being raced in the 2024 Tour de France , including all 18 of the World Tour teams, I’m rather confident that the new Madone is the only bike currently using a UDH derailleur hanger in the World Tour. This is great for everyday riders as it means a spare hanger should never be all that hard to find and this generation of Madone should be future-proofed for whatever drivetrain SRAM might have in the future.
• While the battle against through-the-headset cable routing has been lost, Trek at least makes the latest Madone a little easier to live with. Trek offers separate headset and spacer options to match its RSL Aero one-piece bar/stem and its RCS Pro two-piece cockpit, but there is also a headset cap that allows riders to run whatever handlebar and stem they want. Trek even offers an alternative top cap that lets riders run a round spacer on top of the RSL Aero bar. This means riders can adjust their bar height without cutting brake hoses or trimming the steerer tube.
• The included computer mount does not allow you to adjust the angle of your computer, which is annoying. Otherwise, it’s a tidy mount and a big improvement over the one used on the Madone 7.
• The new saddle clamp design is a big highlight. It’s secure and features independent adjustments for the angle and fore/aft adjustments, which is a big improvement over Trek’s previous single bolt design.
• The RSL Aero one-piece cockpit won’t please everyone. Personally, I found it quite comfy in both reach and drop shape. However, the back sweep on the tops might annoy some riders who prefer a straighter top section and spend lots of time with their hands there.

Test Editor Dan Chabanov got his start in cycling as a New York City bike messenger but quickly found his way into road and cyclocross racing, competing in professional cyclocross races from 2009 to 2019 and winning a Master’s National Championship title in 2018. Prior to joining Bicycling in 2021, Dan worked as part of the race organization for the Red Hook Crit, as a coach with EnduranceWERX, as well as a freelance writer and photographer. 

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• 【オータムフェア】最新のTREK MADONE SL5 GEN8をちょっとだけお得にゲットしよう!!

2024/09/17 17:24

【オータムフェア】最新のTREK MADONE SL5 GEN8をちょっとだけお得にゲットしよう!! by: 石川一瑳

Trek madone sl5gen8.

カラー：HEX BLUまたはG.CRY WHT/M.D.SMOKE

￥449,000(税込)-

現金での購入で車体代金の5％相当の20,409ポイント 現金以外で絵の購入で3％相当の12,245ポイント を贈与致します。

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詳しくは上記の記事にてお確かめください。

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• Trek 2023 Madone SL7 700c Rigid Fork

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