TREK EMONDA ALR DISC 5
The Trek Emonda ALR has entered for the second year in a straight. It still performs admirably for the price and looks fantastic, particularly for an aluminum bike. Trek has done an outstanding job with its welds, ride, and price, which is why it is once again Editor's Choice. Thanks to its 28mm tires, carbon seatpost, and comfort-oriented ride posture, the lightweight Emonda provides excellent braking and plenty of comfort. The sub-8kg (17.6lbs) weight is impressive for an aluminum disc brake bike at this price point, outperforming many carbon cycles, and Trek's Invisible Weld Technology produces seamless welds that appear to be carbon.
Part of the weight savings comes from Trek's "most optimized structure ever," which allows Trek engineers to twist, stretch, and construct intricate shapes from 300 series Alpha aluminum using hydroforming. This is touted to have excellent ride quality, a robust structure, and a carbon-like appearance. It also means that each tube can exactly match its neighbor, requiring less material surrounding the welds, conserving weight without sacrificing strength at the joints. This is where its 7.8kg weight comes into play.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Frame: Ultralight 300 Series Alpha Aluminium
- Groupset: Shimano 105
- Wheels: Bontrager Affinity Disc alloy
- Weight: 7.8kg / 17.2lbs (52cm)
REASONS TO BUY
- Great looks, similar to a carbon frame
- Low weight for an aluminium bike, under 8kg
- Comfortable ride suited to long hilly days in the saddle
REASONS TO AVOID
- Handling not the sharpest
BUY NOW: trekbikes.com/p/24166/
