2010 trek 820

Trek 820 Review – Is This Bike Worth Buying?

The Trek 820 is almost certainly the least expensive “name brand” mountain bike you can buy. With an SRP of $439 (check the Trek site for the latest MSRP ) it hardly seems possible that this bike comes from the same manufacturer that produces some of the most respected – and expensive – mountain bikes on the market. It does, though, and that makes a difference. Trek is a large company that makes lots of bikes. That means they make lots of frames and they order lots of components from some of the biggest names in the industry. That gives them pricing leverage that they pass on to the customer. It would be almost impossible for a smaller or less well-connected company to produce a similar bike at the same price.

You’re also getting the expertise of some of the industry’s top bike designers and builders, and that shows in the design of the frame, the component selection, and the overall value.

The Trek 820 is a basic bike that steps away from many of the trends that define modern mountain bikes. The bike features 26” wheels, not the 27.5” or 29” versions that dominate the industry today. The brakes are old-school rim brakes. The drivetrain has 3 gears in front and 7 in back, and the front fork offers only 3” of travel. Clearly this is not a race ride or a big hit machine, but how does it stack up for its intended purpose: around-town riding and introductory trail rides?

Let’s take a look..

Quick Overview: What I Think of the Trek 820

For older riders (like me) who took up mountain biking back in the 90s, the Trek 820 has a “blast from the past” feel to it. Back in those days we all rode bikes with rim brakes, short-travel forks, 26” wheels, and steep angles. We had a ton of fun and rode some steep, rough trails. We didn’t feel limited by those bikes, because there wasn’t anything else. We didn’t know they were supposed to limit us, so they didn’t.

That doesn’t mean that the Trek 820 is an ideal ride for steep, rugged trails. If you can get a modern full suspension slack-angled trail slayer you’ll have a much better tool for that job. But if you don’t happen to have a few thousand dollars ready to pour into a bicycle, you can buy a Trek 820 and have a great around-town ride that can do more on the trail than a lot of riders realize. Those modern trail bikes are great, but don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t ride trails without one.

In short: if I could choose any bike I wanted, I wouldn’t choose a Trek 820. If I had to choose a bike that cost under $450, I probably would choose a Trek 820. It may not be the best bike you can get, but it’s probably the best you can get for $439.99

What You Get

Let’s look at the key components of the Trek 820.

The Trek 820 frame is made of steel. That means three things. It’s heavy, it’s strong, and it’s inexpensive. Because it’s a Trek, it also has a sleek design, impeccable welds, and high-quality finish and paint. The 820 will never be a light bike, but you will not break the frame and you won’t get tired of looking at it. 

The 820 carries a simple coil spring suspension fork from SR Suntour, a leading Japanese manufacturer of low to mid-end suspension. Travel is 75mm (3 inches), very short by today’s standards but enough to suck up the impact of rough roads, curb drops, and small root-and-rock trail chatter. It won’t hold up to big hits, but that’s not what it’s meant to do. It’s sturdy and durable and should deliver solid service for years.

The 820 comes with a Shimano 3×7 drivetrain: 3 gears in the front and 7 in back. The shifters and derailleurs are from the Shimano Tourney series. They are the cheapest drivetrain components Shimano makes, but they are still produced by one of the world’s two premier drivetrain manufacturers. That matters, because Shimano lets its technology trickle-down: as new upgrades are introduced in the premium levels, the old premium features move down to the lower level parts. 

The Tourney drivetrain won’t win you any bling points at the bike shop, but it will get the job done. You’ll have appropriate gears for level ground, moderate climbs, and all but the steepest steep climbs, and you’ll be able to shift smoothly and precisely. You may have a problem if you want to upgrade the drivetrain. Due to compatibility issues, you’d have to replace all the parts simultaneously, potentially an expensive proposition.

Because the Trek 820 is a beginner-oriented bike, I’ll point out that the durability and performance of drivetrain parts depend heavily on good tuning and the use of proper shifting technique. If you buy your bike – any bike – online, be sure that it’s set up by a qualified mechanic. Take the time to learn good shifting technique. Your equipment will perform better and last longer if you use and maintain it well! Many of the complaints you see in online bike reviews are not issues with the bike or its components, but with the way it was assembled and tuned.

The 820 carries Tektro alloy linear-pull rim brakes. These brakes work by clamping two rubber pads onto the rim of the wheel. This is an old-school braking technology that has been largely replaced by disc brakes on more expensive bikes. It still works, and it’s been used successfully for many years. Disc brakes will perform better in very wet or very muddy conditions, but rim brakes will stop you and control your speed very effectively.

You will have to be careful if you want to use another wheel. Mountain bike wheels (of the same size) are often interchangeable, but rim brakes must be used with a compatible rim. Many rims designed for use with disc brakes don’t have a flat surface designed to be gripped by rim brakes.

The 820 carries a basic, solid wheelset that will do its job, in keeping with the overall theme of the bike. The wheel size is 26”: that size is no longer popular but it was the mountain bike standard for decades, and provided solid service to a generation of riders. The Formula hubs are durable and effective. The rims and tires are from Bontrager. Trek has a long-standing relationship with Bontrager, which supplies many of the components for their lower-end bikes. That relationship brings two advantages. Bontrager makes solid, utilitarian parts, and because Trek orders a large number of parts from the company, they get competitive prices, which they pass on to the consumer.

The Bontrager LT3 tires are a compromise. They are knobby enough to give decent grip in moderate trail conditions but don’t have a high enough profile to create massive tire drag on cement. They won’t grip the trail like an aggressively knobby tire would and they won’t roll as smooth and fast on cement as narrow slicks would, but they will give you a solid platform on a wide variety of different surfaces.

Note that the maximum tire width is 2.0”, which may constrain your options if you want to step up to a wider more trail-capable tire down the line.

Other Components  

Trek fills out the 801’s component spec with what you’d expect: solid, reliable parts, primarily from Bontrager. Nothing is high-end, and you won’t see any featherweight titanium bits or elegant hyper-precise CNC machining, but everything there will do its job and hold up to abuse. 

The 820 frame comes with a full range of mounting points for luggage racks and other accessories. This feature is important on an around-town commuter bike: if you’re going to work or running down to the store you may need to carry a light to moderate load, and the racks make that a lot easier. They also make the 820 suitable for use as an entry-level bikepacking bike. The mounted kickstand, rarely included on pure mountain bikes, makes short-term parking easier.

Component Roundup

You won’t find high end parts on the 820. That’s expected: this is a bike designed to be the most affordable name-brand mountain bike on the market. What you will find is an intelligent selection of parts carefully selected to deliver durability and serviceability at the lowest profitable price.  

Let’s rate the 820 component mix on a 1 to 5 scale relative to other bikes in the sub-$700 range.

The components of a bicycle don’t work alone: everything has to fit together and work together to deliver the performance you need. Let’s look at how the total package performs.

Sizing 

The 820 comes in two versions. The 820WSD is five sizes, from XS to XL, and fits riders from 4’6” to 6’8”. The 820 also comes in a version designed for women, the 820WSD, which features a sharply dissenting top tube that provides very low standover height, a very appealing feature for smaller riders, especially less experienced smaller riders. The WSD comes in three sizes: XS, S, and L.

The smaller sizes of the 820 make this bike a great option for younger riders. If you want to buy a good quality bike for a growing child but you don’t want to overspend on a bike that will be outgrown in a year or two, the 820 in S or XS is a great option.

If you’re a beginning rider the whole concept of bike geometry may seem too complex to grasp. Even experienced riders may be confused over the details! To put it very simply, “slack” or “modern” geometry places the front wheel ahead of the handlebars, which adds stability and reduces the tendency to go over the bars on steep descents. This may also cause the front to wander on steep climbs.

“Steep” or “traditional” geometry places the front wheel under the handlebars, which gives stability on smooth roads and steep climbs. It also makes it easier to tip the bike forward on a steep descent, so you’ll need to drop the saddle down and keep your weight well back when the trail turns down.

The Trek 820 is very much in the “traditional” category, which is appropriate to its purpose. That will serve you well on road rides, but if you ride steeper trails you will need to adjust your body position to keep your weight low and back and the downhills. It’s absolutely possible – aggressive riders rode steep-angled bikes for many years – but it might take some effort.

Performance

The quickest way to sum up the Trek 820’s performance is that it rides above its price tag. This is a bike that carries a price tag not much above department store bikes, but has none of the looseness, squeaking, or rattling that so often go with inexpensive bikes. Part of that is because Trek sells through a network of credible dealers with trained mechanics that assemble and tune the bikes they sell. Many department stores or general sporting goods stores sell bikes that are assembled by unqualified staff members, and that often results in poor assembly and tuning, which in turn can create issues with the brakes, drivetrain, and most other parts of the bike.

The 820 is solid. It’s heavy for a hardtail, but that goes with the price: bikers say you can have two of cheap, light, and strong, but never all three. The 820 drops the lightness, but it’s cheap and sturdy, and that’s what you want in an inexpensive bike.

This bike is a hybrid designed to serve two purposes. As an around-town commuter, errand bike, and exercise/recreation tool it would be hard to ask for more. A pure road bike will be faster and more efficient, but the wider tires, wider bars, and more upright riding position of the 820 will feel more secure, stable, and comfortable for beginning riders. The shifting and gear combinations will serve for all but very steep hills, and the entry-level Shimano drivetrain shifts smoothly and easily. The multiple mounting points make it easy to set up a rack system to carry your daily loads. The low-end nature of the bike will not limit you to any appreciable degree in this type of riding, and if you have a chance to ride a more expensive bike you may wonder what makes it worth that price tag.

The limitations of the 820 may be more evident on the trail. You can certainly ride this bike on mountain bike trails, but you will feel the bumps and you will have to learn some basic skills from the start. That’s not a bad thing. Learning to stand up on the pedals, let your knees work as shock absorbers, and move your weight forward for climbs and back for descents is important. Those skills will help you even on a much more sophisticated bike. The limited suspension will force you to pick a line rather than plowing over obstacles and letting your suspension do the work. You won’t be doing jumps or drops, but you wouldn’t expect to on a bike like this.

The Bottom Line

If you haven’t ridden a bike before or if you rode as a child and are getting back on a bike for the first time in a while, the Trek 820 makes a perfect entry point. It’s affordable and you’ll get the kind of quality that will assure that your learning experience is good and your equipment doesn’t hold you back.

If you’ve ridden bikes before and you need a highly affordable bike for daily use and around town and occasional trail rides, the Trek 820 will be one of your top picks. If you’re looking for a stable, secure bike to ride around town, to work, and to school the Trek 820 will be a perfect fit.

If trail riding is your priority and you’re looking for a dedicated mountain bike, you might be better off saving a little more and looking for a bike designed for that purpose. If that’s not realistic from a financial perspective, you can go with the Trek 820 and ride trails with it. You’ll just need to understand the limitations of your equipment and work within them, leaning more on your skills than on your bike.

Trek approaches their low-end bikes with the same care that they put into designing their high-spec packages, and it shows. The Trek 820 is very inexpensive, but it’s intelligently designed and specced, solidly built, and effective. If you’re on a limited budget and you need a working bicycle, it’s a great choice.

Let’s compare the Trek 820 to other name-brand bikes in the sub-$700 range as an overall purchase. Remember that the 820 is in most cases going to be by far the cheapest option in that category. If you compared the 820 to department-store no-brand bikes in its price range and below you’d be looking at a 5 rating right down the line!

Trek 820 Review - The Ultimate Bike For A New Rider?

I tested and reviewed the Trek 820 mountain bike and compared it to similar models - is it any good?

As a huge bike fan, I love to get my hands on a bike and give it a good review. Find out the pros and cons of every bike...it's great fun!

Overall I found this mountain bike to be a quality ride and the 7-speed shifters were smooth when they needed to be but I did have a few niggles.

So without further ado, let's get into the trek 820 review!

Table of Contents

Full Specifications

Who is the trek 820 aimed at.

The Trek 820 is for those riders who are looking for their first mountain bike, a newbie biker if you will.

As a starter bike, you're still getting high-quality features that mean the bike is still very functional and ideal for taking onto the trails.

For a beginner bike, it gives you the tools and confidence to take on tougher terrains and spend some time on the roads too. Think of this bike like a mountain bike finishing school. It will help you hone in on your skills so you're ready to graduate to a more advanced MTB.

The great thing about the Trek 820 is that it's forgiving, it allows you to make mistakes and if this is your first bike, you're going to make mistakes.

Overall, for riders wanting to dip their toes into the mountain biking world and get on a trail or two, the Trek 820 mountain bike can take you on that journey. I would also say that this bike makes for a good XC bike and would handle itself well on the cross-country tracks.

Key Features Of The Trek 820 Mountain Bike

There are some key features of the Trek 820 mountain bike that are worth noting - which is exactly what we'll do in this section of the mountain bike review!

The frame on the Trek 820 is a Trek custom design steel frame. For mountain bikes, steel is a great choice, it's durable and performs well.

Alongside the frame, you get a front suspension, SR Suntour M 3030. It features a coil spring and this gives you the ability to hit the trails.

It increases the responsiveness of the bike and when you're getting to grips with a new mountain bike, that's exactly what you want.

Keeping in mind that this is an entry-level bike, the fork gives you 75mm of travel. This isn't huge or the best when compared to other mountain bikes but at this price range, it's more than acceptable and will allow you to take on moderately challenging rides - which fits the intended rider perfectly!

This mountain bike comes with a Shimano Tourney drivetrain. This includes Shimano Tourney EF40 shifters, giving you 7 gears.

Shifting will be smooth, which is perfect when you're off-road, on a trail, and need to make gear changes quickly.

However, Tourney aren't the best bike components, nor are they the worst. For a beginner, they're going to be ideal.

My first bike had a terrible set of gears - I envied those riders who had Tourney!

What I really like about the Trek 820 is that it's a full Shimano Tourney drivetrain. The front derailleur is Shimano Tourney TY500 and the rear derailleur is Shimano Tourney TY300.

Often on entry-level bikes, you get part of the drivetrain which is a decent component and the rest isn't. Trek hasn't done that with the 820 and that makes everything smoother. The components were designed to work together and that becomes clear when you're riding!

Bontrager features on most (if not all) of Treks' bikes. It's their components side of the business and they have a good name!

The reason I mention this is that the handlebars are Bontrager Riser. They're comfortable and you should find that the handling on this bike is solid and precise. The great thing is that the handlebar isn't too wide, making it good for the majority of riders. Sometimes I find that if a handlebar is too wide, you need to cut it down to get it to work well for you, and in my opinion, that can be too much work when all you want to do is a cycle!

Pedals are included too!

On the Trek 820, you get Tektro alloy linear-pull - a rim braking system to many riders.

A lot of mountain bikes come with disc brakes so this is a little disappointing that they don't feature on the Trek 820 but we do have to remember that this is a mountain bike on a budget.

Yet what you have to keep in mind is the price range and who this bike is targeted at. Rim brakes are ideal. They keep the weight of the bicycle down and for beginners, it's unlikely they will feel the true benefit of disc brakes anyway so it seems like a smart design decision all round from Trek.

Especially when you allow for the fact that the braking system is paired up with Bontrager LT3 26 x 2" tires, you should get all the stopping power you need.

As I've just said the tires are Bontrager and they work perfectly with the frame...as you'd expect as they're both Trek when it comes down to it!

But the size of the tires is ideal on a beginner bike. 26" is sort of unusual for a mountain bike these days but it's a great size and I admire the design.

26-inch tires give you a lot of control and great handling - this is particularly useful when you're going downhill on a trail. I'd say they're the perfect tire size for a starter mountain bike.

It should come as no surprise to you to see another Bontrager part on this bike. The saddle on the Trek 820 is well designed and it appears to be comfortable, coupled with the well-designed seat post too.

I'm not going to say it'll be comfortable for everybody as saddles aren't a one size fits all type of thing but I think it does a good job of providing comfort to a high proportion of cyclists.

For an overview of the model, check out this video from Trek.

The Pros And Cons Of The Trek 820

Unquestionably, the Trek 820 comes with plenty of advantages and in this part of the Trek 820 mountain bike review, we'll look at those in a bit further detail however it's fair to say that there are some downsides too and it's only fair to cover those too.

• The frame on this mountain bike is lightweight and that makes everything easier! Controlling the bike, climbing hills, everything! Though as it's a steel frame, it's still incredibly durable.
• The front suspension fork on the Trek 820 makes going off-road and onto a trail a joy. It's sturdy and very solid.
• Tires are usually something that can be upgraded straight away, they're usually the compromise on the mountain bike but the tires that come with the Trek 820 give you a decent amount of traction, whatever the terrain.
• As this is a Trek bike, it does open the doors to upgrading components easily as they have so many options and the best bit is that they aren't expensive.
• The seat post provides that extra element of comfort, allowing you to stay in the saddle for long periods of time - perfect for that all-day adventure!
• Regardless of your riding skills, the bike keeps you in a good riding position during your ride. This helps to prevent back and neck ache.
• Suitable for off-road and on-road.
• The suspension that this bicycle comes with could do with an upgrade. For the rough terrain and bigger descents, you may feel the value...or lack of.
• In my opinion, there are a few places where you could upgrade the Trek 820 if you're wanting to seriously use it for downhill rides or rather rough terrain.

Trek 820 Competition

Trek marlin 5.

The Trek Marlin 5 offers stiff competition to the Trek 820 mountain bike - but how different are they and which one is the best?

Let's kick off with a look at the frames.

As we know, the Trek 820 mountain bike has a steel frame and that gives it extra durability when compared to the Marlin 5 which has an aluminum frame. Though that does of course mean it's lighter and honestly, it's still going to be durable enough for the vast majority of hobbyist cyclist.

When it comes to suspension, the Trek 820 mountain bike offers less in the way of travel at 75mm compared to the 100mm on the Marlin but you are getting smaller tires on the Trek 820 and if you're a cautious biker or just starting out, I do believe that's a good place to start.

Both bike models come with a Tourney drivetrain. The Trek 820 mountain bike comes with a 7-speed option, whereas the Marlin comes with a 21-speed. Which is the best bike for you, will ultimately come down to what type of riding you see yourself doing.

I know it's easy to think that it's better to have a bigger number of gears, especially when mountain biking but a bigger gear shifter increases the weight and if you're not going to get the full benefit of that, then you're better off not having it, make sense?

For someone who is going to be riding on light trails, I'd say that the preference and advantage go the Trek 820.

Stopping power can be a big feature and it's one I certainly consider. My preference and usually my advice is if you've got the money, go for hydraulic discs - something which you can do if you opt for the Marlin 5.

Yet, I'm struggling to totally stand by that note. Performance-wise, you do get better stopping power from discs however, I'm not sure how much that is needed given who the intended user is of the Trek 820 mountain bike and what the riding style will be.

Whilst both of these bikes are aimed at the entry-level market, they both serve very different purposes.

The Marlin 5 could be an MTB that could be with you for a longer time period and you could come to do more challenging rides on it. However, that does come at a price and ultimately you will need to upgrade to a higher spec mountain bike if you are wanting to take on some of the tougher trails and terrain - though it performs well on roads and light trails.

If you're wanting to get used to the idea of riding a mountain bike but not push yourself too much or have little interest in technical terrain, then the Trek 820 mountain bike is a great ride - both for mountain riding and road biking.

If you want to read further about the Trek Marlin 5, you can check out my review here.

Chris Clark offers a good comparison if you want to watch a video.

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Now let's see how it faired against the Giant...

The frame on the Talon 3 is aluminum, which I do like, I can't deny, alloy is nice to have and nice to ride.

However, for a hobbyist cyclist, the riding style and the design of the Talon could be too aggressive, whereas the Trek 820 is relaxed and comfortable to ride.

Both bikes feature Shimano, 7 gears for the Trek and 16-speed for the Giant. The Giant does have a better derailleur and overall drivetrain but how much will that impact the performance? That's down to your needs.

The wheels on the Talon are larger at 27.5 inches and do come with an alloy rim, I do like that and it does add an extra bit of value. Though for anyone less experienced on a bike, it could be those wheels are difficult to balance.

The Trek and Giant tires offer fantastic grip, traction, and support, which does make for a comfortable ride by all accounts.

Suspension is offered on the models, though only at the front as they are hardtail mountain bikes. Which is positive by the way! Full suspension bikes can be a difficult experience and if you're a beginner, you aren't going to get the performance benefit.

In conclusion, the Talon 3 rides well, the performance is decent, as every bit as good as the reviews suggest.

Is Trek 820 A Good Bike?

For those looking for an affordable mountain bike, the Trek 820 offers a lot of features and is a good choice - one of the best to be honest.

When you look at the specifications, you can see that it's a great bike for those new to riding and mountain biking.

Yes, there are parts that could benefit from an upgrade but do you know what?

You have to start somewhere and the Trek 820 is a great place to start!

Is Trek Bike Worth The Money?

The Trek 820 mountain bike is a great bike and comes with many features you want to get started with mountain biking.

It does make a good bike for riders who want a mountain bike for the commute to work or college.

Yet it's important to keep in mind that the Trek 820 mountain bike is entry-level and isn't designed to be used for hardcore mountain biking - it simply won't stand up to it.

Are Trek Bikes Good Quality?

Trek on the whole produces really good quality bikes. As with any other bike manufacturer, they have their lower range bikes that aren't as good but generally speaking, you can't go far wrong with a Trek bicycle!

Final Thoughts - Trek 820 Review

If you're wanting to ride the trails then this Trek 820 mountain bike is a seriously good option - one of the best you're going to see.

With a durable steel frame, a comfortable seatpost, decent tires, and a 7-speed gear shifter - it's got everything you could want from an MTB...for a good price too!

The entry-level bike market features some stiff competition, including the Giant Talon 3 - want to know about it? Read about it here.

Overall, the Trek 820 mountain bike is more than just a load of specifications on paper - this mountain bike delivers on a budget.

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Trek 820 Review: Is It a Good Bike or Waste of Money?

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Trek 820 is the most affordable mountain bike from Trek. The question is:

Is it a good bike? Should you spend your money on it?

Trek 820 is a mountain bike suitable for beginners because it’s affordable yet well-made. This means it has a quality steel frame, Shimano components, and front suspension for absorbing bumps. In addition, it’s available in a step-through option suitable for women.

Below, you will learn more about it, and I will also explain how it differs from more expensive mountain bikes .

Let’s dive in!

Is Trek 820 a Good Bike?

Trek 820 is a good bike considering its price of $499.99 (when writing this review).

For this money, you get:

• An entry-level mountain bike with front fork suspension for absorbing bumps.
• A steel frame with a relaxed geometry for a comfortable riding position.
• Shimano Tourney groupset and Bontrager components.

You don’t have to use it strictly for off-road riding. Many owners also use it for commuting on paved roads.

However, if necessary, you can easily cross unpaved sections full of potholes, rocks, etc. The wide, knobby tires and front suspension will absorb them so you can enjoy a comfortable ride.

Another feature of why Trek 820 is popular is its gear range. Thanks to the 3X chainring and 7spd cassette, you can choose from 21 gears.

Trek 820 is suitable for riders 4’6″ – 6’8″ (137-203 cm) tall and has a weight limit of up to 300 lbs (136 kg).

Pros and Cons of Trek 820

Here I summarized the pros and cons of Trek 820.

Pros of Trek 820

• Quality and sturdy steel frame
• Available for men and women (step-through option)
• Affordable price
• Comfortable geometry, allowing upright riding position
• Suspension fork
• Available in a wide range of sizes
• High weight limit of up to 300 lbs (136 kg)
• Platform pedals included
• Compatible with accessories like racks
• Lifetime warranty and wide distributors (support) network

Cons of Trek 820

• 3X drivetrain (2X and 1X are more popular thanks to their simplicity)
• Limited color selection
• The higher weight of 33.7 lbs (15.3 kg)
• 26-inch wheels

To fully understand the pros and cons, I recommend reading the following section where I compare its features with today’s mountain bikes.

Owner’s Experience with Trek 820

The following part summarizes the experience of the owner of Trek 820, who was kind enough to provide us with pictures and his insights. You can follow him on Instagram @trek_grando .

“It’s a steel frame bike with front suspension great for mild mountain biking. Suspension is definitely on the stiffer side and can bottom out somewhat easily.

My bike is almost entirely stock, minus the front wheel and grips. The saddle is also a factory replacement, and the decals on the front suspension are missing.

The bike and I were hit by a car last year. The front wheel was destroyed, and there were some heavy scratches on the paint. The decals on the fork were torn apart. I was able to hide the blemishes with some touch-up paint.

The bike was serviced after the accident, and only the front wheel and left crank arm needed replacement. So, needless to say, the bike is very robust and strong.

If I had one complaint about the bike, the gearing is far too short, and there are some big jumps between gears. But it’s a low-end bike, so that’s understandable.

Tires handle loose or muddy terrain fine but are very loud and slow on the pavement.

The Trek 820 is a robust, rugged lower-end / entry-level mountain bike. It’s dependable, relatively capable, and very comfortable.

I’d recommend this for someone new to riding, mountain biking specifically. It’s a great way to get out on some trails without breaking the bank. I feel I can take great confidence in knowing it is a solid bike that I won’t have to ever really worry about.”

Main Features of Trek 820

Below, I explain Trek 820’s features and how they compare to more expensive mountain bikes.

Durable Steel Frame

Trek 820 is one of the few mountain bikes based on a steel frame.

Steel is relatively affordable, durable, and stiff but heavy. So, if you don’t care about the bike’s overall weight and durability is your priority, Trek 820 is the bike to buy.

More expensive mountain bikes have aluminum or carbon frames. You can read my article dedicated to bike frame materials , where you learn more about their benefits.

On the other side of the spectrum are aluminum mountain bikes. For example, Trek 3700 and Trek 4300 have an aluminum frame.

Another thing I want to point out is the frame geometry. It’s relatively relaxed, so you will sit in a more upright position, which is suitable for beginners and people with limited flexibility.

26-Inch Wheels

Trek 820 comes with 26-inch wheels. These are more agile, accelerate faster, and feel more responsive than 27.5 or 29-inch wheels.

But, they are not as fast and comfortable as the other two alternatives. On the other hand, 26″ wheels provide better maneuverability.

If you can, I recommend trying them in person so you can feel the riding difference.

Trek 820 is equipped with Shimano Tourney (shifters, derailleurs, cranks, cassette), Bontrager, and other 3rd party components.

Of course, they are low-end because the bike’s price doesn’t allow for more expensive components.

820 also comes with rim brakes. Today’s mountain bikes mostly come with disc brakes. But they are more expensive and also heavier than rim brakes.

Another thing to mention is the width of the handlebar. Trek’s 820 handlebar is only 660-690mm (depending on the bike size). Modern mountain bikes come with 700 to 800mm handlebars.

The current generation of Trek 820 comes with a 3×7spd drivetrain, offering 21 gears.

This range is wide enough for various terrains. Just make sure you avoid cross-chaining. See the following illustration for more info.

The disadvantage of the 3X drivetrains is their complexity, more complicated maintenance, and higher weight.

More expensive mountain bikes come with 2X or 1X drivetrains that are much simpler.

You don’t have to think about the cross-chaining with them as much. They are also lighter and easier to maintain. That’s why they are more popular.

Suspension Fork

Trek 820 comes with a 75mm travel SR Suntour M-3030 fork (unlike the old Trek 800 ).

The travel of forks on entry-level mountain bikes ranges from 50 to 100mm. So, it sits somewhere in the middle.

This travel will absorb some bumps, but it’s not suitable for hard trails, for example.

In other words, it’s less forgiving than mountain bikes with longer travel and higher quality forks (that cost the same as the entire Trek 820).

Remember, SR Suntour M-3030 is one of the cheapest forks on the market. So you shouldn’t expect much from it.

Trek 820 Specifications

Below, I summarize the most important technical specifications. They differ based on the year the bike was produced:

• Frame material: Steel
• Weight: ±33.7 lbs (15.3 kg) depending on frame size
• Wheel size: 26-inch
• Brakes: Rim
• Groupset: Shimano Tourney
• Gears: 3×7spd
• Fork: SR Suntour M-3030 (75mm travel)

What Size of Trek 820 do You Need?

To choose the correct size of Trek 820 (WMN) for your height and inseam, refer to the following Trek 820 sizing charts.

Trek 820 (also available in a step-through option for women ) is a mountain bike worth buying if you are a beginner.

It’s one of the bikes that you can rely on on various terrains. And you don’t have to be afraid of breaking it, thanks to its durable steel frame.

Its main shortcomings include higher weight, limited color selection, and rim brakes.

Trek 820 FAQ

Yes. Trek 820 is a worthy mountain bike for beginners and people who want a reliable commuter bike. It has a durable steel frame and quality components from Shimano, Bontrager, and other brands to last you for years. Its main disadvantages are the higher weight, less effective suspension fork, and rim brakes.

Trek 820 comes in different colors and has a standard frame. 820 WMN is a step-through bike with a women-specific saddle.

Trek 820 weighs ±15.3kg (33.7 lbs). Remember, the weight differs based on its size.

Trek 820 has been in Trek’s lineup since 1987. ( Source )

About The Author

Petr Minarik

2 thoughts on “trek 820 review: is it a good bike or waste of money”.

My Trek 820 was purchased in Riyadh Saudi Arabia and came with 27” wheels. I didn’t know this was not standard. I have ridden my Trek all over Saudi Arabia for 4 years and Have now ridden for 4 years in Florida. It has worked well and now I bought a full suspension Trek Fuel 5. The Trek is a great bike!

Cool, thanks for sharing your experience, Thomas! – Petr

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Is Trek 820 Mountain Bike Worth It?

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Mountain biking is arguably the most adventurous and fun activity to enjoy in the great outdoors regardless of you’re experience with the MTB life . However, there is a learning curve to mountain biking for any rider when it comes to the functionality and feature set of each bike .

For example, bikes made for experienced riders will typically come with several features that only experienced riders will be familiar with.

So it is important to start with the basics. If you’re new to mountain biking and are looking for a reliable, powerful, and feature-packed bike to help you get started on your journey, the Trek 820 is a great choice.

The Trek 820 bicycle comes outfitted with many premium features, making it a capable and powerful option for anyone looking for a reliable entry-level bike to ride on light trails , downhill, and cross-country rides. For starters, the 820 bicycle is made from a custom stainless frame that is very durable and stable, so you will be able to take on hard rides without worrying about the integrity of this great bike .

You’ll also enjoy other premium features such as the front and rear Shimano Tourney TY500 & TY300 derailleurs that deliver smooth power throughout your ride. The Trek 820 is only about $399 retail; however, for that price, it is packing some serious features that are very impressive and makes this a great bike . If you’re interested in getting into mountain biking and want to know more about the Trek 820 to see if it’s right for you on the road , this is the right review.

Below, I’m going to cover all of the important information, details, facts, and specifications that you need to know about the Trek 820 and give you my honest opinion about whether or not this nice XC Bike can give you a comfortable ride or if it’s worth the money.

820 is an excellent entryway to a world of off-road adventures. It's the most affordable mountain bike in our lineup and the ideal choice for beginners who are interested in the MTB life but also want a hybrid bike that's as equally suited to light trails as it is to potholed city streets.

Who is the Trek 820 for? 

At its core, the Trek 820 was designed for those entry-level riders who want an affordable bike that is packed with high-quality features and is responsive and functional. The 820 comes equipped with is perfect for taking on MTB trails as it delivers good overall ride quality consistently. The frame on this bike is very solid, and it will allow you to become acclimated with how a more advanced mountain bike feels once you graduate from using it as your primary bike. 

The 820 is a very easy bike to use if you’re interested in fine-tuning your riding skills, and It’s also very forgiving if you happen to make small mistakes while riding. All around, the Trek 820 is the perfect bike for anyone interested in learning how to mountain bike and wants to start out with a reliable bike that gives them the ability to explore their potential. 

Pros & Cons: Trek 820 

The 820 is packed with immense capabilities and advanced features that can be used to improve the riding style of virtually any mountain biking enthusiast. However, that isn’t to say that the bike doesn’t come with it’s set of pros and cons as it does, depending on your preference and any exact features you’re looking for. Take a look below to see all of the main pros and cons you can expect when using the 820 as your dedicated cycle. 

• The lightweight overall design makes this bike very versatile and usable when riding on moderate trails and uphill climbs
• The front suspension system is very sturdy and solid 
• Stock tires deliver great traction and grip
• Ability to upgrade the stock components without paying too much money 
• Comfortable seat post makes it easy for you to ride for long periods without becoming uncomfortable 
• Faultless positioning system ensures that you maintain optimal posture throughout your ride 
• Delivers a professional level ride experience at an affordable cost 
• Can be used for off-roading purposes
• With the stock suspension, really hard impacts are pretty jarring when tackling larger features.
• It requires some modification in order to make it capable of handling downhill rides or really rough terrain.  

Core Features: Trek 820 

Trek 820 core feature breakdown, frame .

The 820 is made from a very durable Trek Custom Steel frame that provides a solid frame for intense rides for a long time. The frame has a rugged design that gives the bike functionality and tangible performance.

The frame on this bike is coupled with an SR Suntour M-3030 preloaded fork that uses a coil spring to deliver responsiveness on virtually any trail. While the fork has 75mm of travel, enabling you to take on moderately challenging rides with ease.

Shifters 

The Trek 820 is outfitted with Shimano Tourney EF40 7-speed shifters that enable you to make on-the-fly adjustments to your speed. The shifters are backed by a front Shimano Tourney TY500 derailleur and a Shimano Tourney TY300 rear derailleur.

This provides enhanced performance capabilities so that you can take on most rides with confidence. This bike is also Bontrager Riser 25.4m/30mm rise handlebars that are comfortable, giving you the ability to maneuver the bike with ease and precision. 

Brakes 

The Trek 820 comes with Tektro alloy linear-pull brakes as the standard braking configuration, and they deliver fast stopping power with precision. This, combined with the Bontrager LT3 26×2.00″ tires that come on the 820, makes it a very impressive beginner bike in terms of raw braking power and all-around performance. 

You’ll find a Bontrager SSR 2-bolt head 29.2, 12mm offset seat post on the Trek 820 that is well-designed and very comfortable, making it easy for you to ride at long intervals without becoming uncomfortable too easily. It’s also packing a Bontrager SSR saddle that provides even more support for the way you sit and ride the bike. 

Alternative Recommendations 

#1 outroad mountain bike 27.5 inch.

The Outroad Mountain Bike 27.5 inch is an impressive bike at a beginner bike price. The Outroad comes equipped with 27.5in tires that make the bike easier to handle while also giving you the ability to take on tough trails without a sweat. With full suspension, this bike is ready for big drops and larger features.

The bike comes with a 21-speed gear set that is very responsive and accurate, allowing you to make adjustments to your speed on the fly without compromising performance or agility. This bike is made from a very durable frame and requires assembly on delivery, which is not a big deal since it’s fairly easy to put together. It features an ergonomic design and is optimized for performance. Pros: 21-speed gear shifter, thick tires, and ergonomic design. Cons: stiff suspension.  

The Outroad Mountain Bike is an impressive bike at a beginner bike price. The tires make the bike easier to handle while also giving you the ability to take on tough trails without a sweat!

#2 26 Inch Steel Carbon Mountain Trail Bike

The 26 Inch Steel Carbon Mountain Trail Bike is packing a 21-speed indexed derailleur that provides smooth shifting and transition, for sustained ride performance. This bike features a hardtail frame that is crafted from no-rust aluminum, which is very durable and long-lasting.

One of the great things about the material used to make the frame on this bike is that it’s lighter than steel, making it easier for you to reach higher speeds without sacrificing too much support and durability. Pros: full suspension system, hardtail frame, and durable design. Cons: rugged usability. 

Upon delivery, you must assemble this item, and it allows you to adjust your ride height so that you always maintain optimal posture while riding.

#3 Hiland 26 Inch Mountain Bike

The Hiland 26 Inch Mountain Bike is made from a high-quality steel frame that comes backed by a lifetime warranty, which means that you’ll always be covered in the event of any accidents while riding this bike. You’ll also enjoy the fact that it comes outfitted with Shimano 21-speed components and a finger-type shifter, making it easy for you to change speed on the fly when faced with variables along your path. It comes outfitted with 26” 2.125in wide tires which allow you to take on rough dirt trails and other terrains without having to worry about the bike breaking down.

This bike uses a 15” frame that makes it perfect for those individuals who are of medium to tall. Pros: 15” heavy-duty frame, 21-speed gear shifter, and thick tires. Cons: heavy and bulky build.  The pre-installed suspension fork on this bike provides a smooth and consistent ride, and it even comes with a kickstand.

The Hiland 26 Inch Mountain Bike is made from a high-quality steel frame that comes backed by a lifetime warranty, which means that you'll always be covered in the event of any accidents while riding this bike!

#4 Mongoose Switchback Adult Mountain Bike

The Mongoose Switchback Adult Mountain Bike is made from a Tectonic T1 aluminum frame that is lightweight yet durable and resilient. This bike is also equipped with 27.5in tires that deliver a solid and smooth ride on most terrain.

You’ll find that the disc brakes on this bike provide very accurate and powerful stopping power so that you can stay safe on the trail. Pros: high-traction tires, streamlined design, and lightweight frame. Cons: rigged design elements and lack of customization options. 

It has internal cable routing that makes your lines clean while also providing enhanced protection. This bike is packing a Mongoose MTB saddle that is very comfortable so you can ride for long periods of time without chafing or becoming too sore.

The Mongoose Switchback Adult Mountain Bike is made from an aluminum frame that is lightweight yet durable and resilient. On the other side, is also equipped with tires that deliver a solid and smooth ride on most terrain.

A: The Trek 820 is an affordable entry-level mountain bike that is packed with tons of great features. For its price, the 820 is an outstanding option for anyone looking for a power-packed bike to learn the art of mountain biking.

A: The Trek 820 weighs about 33.39lbs, and it has a maximum weight capacity of about 300lbs overall.

A: The Trek 820 comes in 5 different sizes, which are XS, S, M, L, and XL, all of these variations range in size from 13in all the way up to 20in. This gives you the ability to find a bike that meets your exact specifications regardless of how large or small you may be. 

Honest Opinion 

After taking a comprehensive look at all of the features, specifications, and capabilities of the Trek 820, I would confidently say that this bike is well worth the money. The fact that it’s outfitted with some pretty nice quality Shimano parts at under $500 makes it a steal on paper; however, when you factor in the real-world performance stats that this bad boy can bring in, you’ll realize it’s more than just design specs.

If you’re looking for a reliable, high-quality, and affordable entry-level mountain bike to hone in your skills on, the Trek 820 is a great option. 

Conclusion 

Now that you know about all of the core specifications, features, and critical information about the Trek 820 , you will be able to make an educated purchase decision. Before deciding on which mountain bike is right for you, consider what your personal preferences are and any specific features you’re looking for, by doing so you’ll be able to find the exact mountain bike that fits your needs. Happy riding! 

1 thought on “Is Trek 820 Mountain Bike Worth It?”

I have this bike for over 10 years and I was never dissapointed. Still a really solid bike!

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• 2010, Trek, 820

2010 Trek 820

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• Trek 820 2010
• Crosscountry

Bike summary

Bike components.

Trek Custom Steel w/chromoly seat tube

Rear Derailleur

Shimano TX31

Front Derailleur

Shimano C051

Shift Levers

Shimano EF40, 7 speed

Shimano TZ31, 13-34, 7 speed

Hawk DX 48/38/28

Wellgo nylon platform

Alloy FM31 hubs; Bontrager 550 rims w/brushed sidewalls

Bontrager LT-3, 26x2.0"

Tektro V w/Shimano EF40 levers

Bontrager Approved, 25 degree

Bontrager Approved Riser, 30mm rise

VP-A71-TK, 1-1/8" semi-cartridge, steel

Bontrager SSR

Bontrager SSR, 31.6mm, 20mm offset

Bike geometry

Model overview.

820 belongs to the Trek 820 model. Trek launched 35 bikes of this model so far.

When cycling always take safety very seriously. Wear a helmet, obey the traffic rules and wear hi-vis clothes. In short, take care of yourself so others can take care of you.

Crosscountry bikes average price

If you want an acceptable Crosscountry bike you should know that the average price is 1905 $ . However, even if your budget is less than the average, you might still be able to get a top-quality Crosscountry bike. To make sure you don’t pay a higher amount than normal for your bike, always do some components analysis and read reviews.

Overview of components

When it comes to wheels, the 820 bike is equipped with the 26″ aluminum model. The 26″ wheels are lighter than the 27.5 or 29″ wheels. However, they are less forgiving when riding over obstacles such as bumps and roots.

For your safety, it is important to have quality breaks on your bike. Trek 820 has Rim brakes installed. Slightly lighter than hydraulic brakes, rim brakes are a budget choice. However, you could spend a little extra and get a bike that has hydraulic brakes.

Trek 820 models from 2022

Trek 820 models from 2021, trek 820 models from 2020, trek 820 models from 2019, trek 820 models from 2018, trek 820 models from 2017, trek 820 models from 2016, trek 820 models from 2015, trek 820 models from 2014, trek 820 models from 2013, trek 820 models from 2011, trek 820 models from 2009, trek 820 models from 2008, trek 820 models from 2007, trek 820 models from 2006, trek 820 models from 2005, trek 820 models from 2004, trek 820 models from 2003.

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2010 Trek 820

• Serial: WTU088CS5528H
• Manufacturer: Trek
• Name: Trek 820
• Primary colors: Black and Red
• Frame size: 33CM
• Wheel diameter: 26in
• Frame Material: Steel
• Handlebar type: Flat or riser

Distinguishing features

Black with red with a black and white seat, mountain bike.

Drivetrain and brakes

Frame and fork, additional parts.

• Rear Brake Tektro V w/Shimano EF40 levers ()
• Front Brake Tektro V w/Shimano EF40 levers
• Pedals Wellgo nylon platform
• Cog/Cassette/Freewheel Shimano TZ31, 13-34, 7 speed
• Crankset Hawk DX 48/38/28
• Rear Derailleur Shimano TX31
• Front Derailleur Shimano C051
• Rear Shifter Shimano EF40, 7 speed
• Front Shifter Shimano EF40, 7 speed
• Headset VP-A71-TK, 1-1/8" semi-cartridge, steel
• Stem Bontrager Approved, 25 degree
• Handlebar Bontrager Approved Riser, 30mm rise
• Seatpost Bontrager SSR, 31.6mm, 20mm offset
• Saddle Bontrager SSR
• Front Other Alloy FM31 hubs; Bontrager 550 rims w/brushed sidewalls
• Rear Tire Bontrager LT-3, 26x2.0"
• Front Tire Bontrager LT-3, 26x2.0"
• Rear Wheel Alloy FM31 hubs; Bontrager 550 rims w/brushed sidewalls

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Cool Features

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2021 Trek 820

A 26″ steel frame hardtail crosscountry bike with mid-range components and rim brakes. 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.

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Last updated April 22 Not listed for 1,066 days

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Mortality Related to Air Pollution with the Moscow Heat Wave and Wildfire of 2010

Dmitry shaposhnikov.

From the a Institute of Economic Forecasting, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia; b Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; c Centre for Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Stockholm County Council, Stockholm, Sweden; d Institute of Demography, Higher School of Economics, Moscow, Russia; and e State Environmental Protection Institution Mosecomonitoring, Moscow, Russia.

Boris Revich

Tom bellander, getahun bero bedada, matteo bottai, tatyana kharkova, ekaterina kvasha, elena lezina, eugenia semutnikova, göran pershagen.

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Background:

Prolonged high temperatures and air pollution from wildfires often occur together, and the two may interact in their effects on mortality. However, there are few data on such possible interactions.

We analyzed day-to-day variations in the number of deaths in Moscow, Russia, in relation to air pollution levels and temperature during the disastrous heat wave and wildfire of 2010. Corresponding data for the period 2006–2009 were used for comparison. Daily average levels of PM 10 and ozone were obtained from several continuous measurement stations. The daily number of nonaccidental deaths from specific causes was extracted from official records. Analyses of interactions considered the main effect of temperature as well as the added effect of prolonged high temperatures and the interaction with PM 10 .

The major heat wave lasted for 44 days, with 24-hour average temperatures ranging from 24°C to 31°C and PM 10 levels exceeding 300 μg/m 3 on several days. There were close to 11,000 excess deaths from nonaccidental causes during this period, mainly among those older than 65 years. Increased risks also occurred in younger age groups. The most pronounced effects were for deaths from cardiovascular, respiratory, genitourinary, and nervous system diseases. Continuously increasing risks following prolonged high temperatures were apparent during the first 2 weeks of the heat wave. Interactions between high temperatures and air pollution from wildfires in excess of an additive effect contributed to more than 2000 deaths.

Conclusions:

Interactions between high temperatures and wildfire air pollution should be considered in risk assessments regarding health consequences of climate change.

Heat waves and wildfires constitute important public health threats. Predictions based on climate change scenarios indicate that more intense and longer heat events are likely to become more frequent in temperate zones. 1 , 2 Acute effects of heat waves on mortality are well documented. 3 , 4 Primarily, cardiovascular mortality in the elderly population is affected, but studies have generally lacked adequate power to assess risks for other less common causes, as well as for persons of working ages. Furthermore, there is limited evidence on the interplay between heat intensity and duration regarding their adverse health effects.

Wildfire activity is also expected to be affected by climate change and leads to increased exposure to combustion-related particles. 5 There is compelling evidence linking particulate air pollution in general to total 6 and cardiovascular mortality 7 after both short- and long-term exposure. More specifically, some studies have reported associations between wildfires and increased mortality, 8 , 9 whereas others found no such relation 10 , 11 or reported weak associations, 12 which may be a result of low statistical power. Evidence is lacking on interactions between extended high temperatures and air pollution from wildfires on cause-specific mortality although these exposures often occur together. 2

The prolonged heat wave in Moscow during the summer of 2010 triggered numerous wildfires in forests and peat bogs near the city. Earlier studies in Moscow have reported both heat and particulate-related effects on mortality, although under less extreme circumstances than in 2010. 13 , 14 The initial death toll estimate for the heat wave in the summer of 2010 was around 55,000 for the European part of the Russian Federation. 15 However, data on daily mortality have not previously been available, and analyses have not been possible on daily variations in temperature, air pollution levels, and mortality. Our aim was to analyze day-to-day variations of cause-specific mortality in Moscow in relation to air pollution levels and temperature during the heat wave and wildfire period in July and August 2010.

Air Pollution and Meteorology

Daily meteorological and air pollution data from 2006 to 2010 were supplied by the State Environmental Protection Institution Mosecomonitoring, which operates the Moscow State Environmental Monitoring System. 16 , 17 Automatic air quality monitoring stations are placed in all functional zones of the city: residential zones, mixed residential/industrial zones, green areas, and near motorways. Each station continuously monitors a set of pollutants under WHO maintenance and air quality measurement guidelines. 18

PM 10 and ozone measurements are the focus of our analyses. The number of PM 10 measuring stations in Moscow increased from six in 2006 to nine in 2008. PM 10 was initially measured by Russian-made radio-isotopic devices. Between 2006 and 2008, these instruments were gradually replaced at all stations with oscillating microbalance monitors TEOM1400a (Thermo Fisher Scientific, Franklin, MA). Although PM 10 measurements for this study were obtained mostly from TEOM1400a, three stations that used radio-isotopic devices until 2008 were also included. A factor of 1.3 was used to convert TEOM1400a to reference gravimetric measurements, as recommended for Northern and Central Europe. 19 This factor was not applied during the days with maximum air temperatures above 30°C. The number of ozone-monitoring stations increased from nine in 2006 to 13 in 2010. Ozone was measured by ultraviolet fluorescence methodology and differential optical absorption spectroscopy.

Only the stations that had more than 75% of valid hourly averages during each day were included in calculations of city average pollution levels during that day. Day-to-day variations in numbers of operating stations were taken into account by a standardization procedure. Thus, each observation from a station was subtracted from that station’s annual mean and the resulting value divided by the corresponding standard deviation. Then, a common daily mean was constructed by averaging all available standardized observations for that day. Finally, this average was multiplied by the standard deviation of the most representative station, and the mean annual concentration of this station was added. Selection of the most representative station was based on the completeness of measurements during a particular year. Data from at least one PM 10 -monitoring and one O 3 -monitoring station were available for each day during the observation period.

Average daily temperatures and relative humidity were obtained by Mosecomonitoring from the Meteorological Observatory of the Moscow State University, which has data acquisition procedures complying with requirements of the World Meteorological Organization. In the calculation of heat wave threshold temperatures, data from 1980 and onward were used.

Information on daily deaths in the city of Moscow during the 5-year period 2006–2010 was based on Russian State statistics. With a population of 11.5 million in 2010, Moscow experiences about 300 deaths a day. Each death in Russia is certified by an authorized medical expert, who identifies the date, place, and primary cause of death using International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision ( ICD-10 ) codes. This expert issues a “medical certificate of death” that is reported to the local civil registration office. This office then makes an official record of death and reports it to the Russian State Statistical Service. No specific validation of death records was performed for this study, but the autopsy rate in Moscow is relatively high, varying from 46% in 2006 to 50% in 2009. The proportion of ill-defined and unspecified causes of death ( ICD-10 code R99) was 4–5% during this period.

Statistical Analysis

A detailed description of the statistical methodology is provided in the eAppendix ( http://links.lww.com/EDE/A778 ). Data were analyzed using two complementary approaches. In the first, we analyzed mortality from all major causes defined in the ICD-10 chapters, except for those with fewer than 100 deaths during the heat wave period (6 July to 18 August 2010). Generalized linear models with identity link and Gaussian errors were applied to estimate the expected death counts for each cause of death separately. 20 The death count during the period 2006–2009 was modeled as a function of time to predict the expected death counts during the heat wave period in 2010. In the second approach, we considered the effects of air pollution and temperature (and their interaction) on total nonaccidental mortality, using a generalized linear model with a logarithmic link function and Gaussian errors during the whole study period 2006–2010. The independent variables included long-term time trend modeled by linear and quadratic functions of day number during the study period; seasonal periodicity modeled by a restricted cubic spline for day of year; day of week introduced by indicator variables; relative humidity during the day of the outcome; average measures of PM 10 , ozone, and temperature over the day of the outcome and the previous day; average measures of PM 10 , ozone, and temperature over the time period between the 6th and the 2nd day before the outcome; an interaction term between ozone and season; and a multiplicative interaction term between PM 10 and temperature exceeding 18°C (minimum of the mortality-temperature relationship). The variables used to model the “added” effect of the number of days into the heat wave (sometimes called “wave effect”) follow the approach described by Gasparrini and Armstrong. 21

Figure ​ Figure1 1 shows daily temperature and PM 10 levels in Moscow from 1 June to 31 August 2010, as well as total number of nonaccidental deaths. On several days, 24-hour average temperatures exceeded 30°C and PM 10 levels exceeded 300 μg/m 3 . A heat wave threshold was set at the 98th percentile of daily mean temperatures (23.6°C). Using a heat wave definition of at least three consecutive days with temperatures above this threshold, six heat waves were identified in 2006–2009 and two in 2010 (6 days in late June and 44 days between 6 July and 18 August). The latter prolonged heat wave period in 2010 is the primary focus of our analyses. We observed three episodes when daily mean PM 10 levels exceeded the 98th percentile (90 μg/m 3 ), and all are nested within the prolonged heat wave period. As seen in Figure ​ Figure1, 1 , both temperature and air pollution levels influenced the mortality. The highest number of deaths followed the major air pollution episode in early August, during the final part of the heat wave, when daily death rates were three times higher than normal. For comparison, data on daily temperature, PM 10 levels, and mortality during the whole observation period (2006–2010) are shown in eFigure 1 ( http://links.lww.com/EDE/A778 ).

Daily nonaccidental deaths, mean temperature, and PM 10 levels in Moscow during the summer of 2010. Solid lines show observed values; dashed lines, expected values.

The Table shows observed and expected number of deaths from 6 July to 18 August 2010, according to age and major disease groups. The total number of excess deaths from nonaccidental causes during this period was 10,860. Risks were higher among those older than 65 years, although a clear increase was seen also in those of working ages. Risks were elevated for all specific causes; the greatest relative increases were observed for deaths from nervous system (relative risk [RR] = 3.07), genitourinary (RR = 2.54), cerebrovascular (RR = 2.37), ischemic heart (RR = 2.29), and respiratory (RR = 2.05) diseases. Renal diseases were responsible for most of the excess risk among the genitourinary diseases. We saw no clear sex-related differences in excess number of deaths during the heat wave (data not shown).

Observed (O) and Expected (E) Deaths During the Moscow Heat Wave from 6 June to 18 August 2010

There was a strong increase in mortality during the heat wave not explained by temperature as estimated from previous years. Figure ​ Figure2 2 shows the main effect of temperature specified as an increase in mortality attributable to variations of daily temperatures over the preceding week, relative to the minimum of the mortality-temperature relationship. The minimum appeared at 18°C, and high temperatures in particular led to sharp increases in mortality. Figure ​ Figure3 3 shows the effect of consecutive heat wave days (“added” effect of temperature) specified by the relative increase in mortality from nonaccidental causes modeled as a smooth function of day number starting 6 July 2010. There is a steep increase in RR during the first 2 weeks of the heat wave, up to 1.38 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.27–1.50), and then a gradual decrease until the end of the heat wave.

Relative increase in nonaccidental mortality 2006–2010 in Moscow related to temperature, averaged over 1 week, compared with a temperature of 18°C. The graphs indicate mean relative increase and 95% confidence interval.

Relative increase in nonaccidental mortality in Moscow between 6 July and 18 August 2010 attributable to the effect of consecutive heat wave days. The graphs indicate mean relative increase and 95% confidence interval.

The estimated relative increases in daily nonaccidental mortality attributable to temperature, air pollution, and their interaction are illustrated in Figure ​ Figure4. 4 . The relative increases attributable to air pollution and interaction are calculated against the mean levels of PM 10 and ozone during the summers 2006–2009 (36 and 35 μg/m 3 , respectively). Each curve marks up the respective multiplier or factor: AB represents the expected death count from model (1); AC/AB is the relative increase in mortality attributable to the main effect of high temperatures; AD/AC represents the relative increase in mortality attributable to the “added” effect of prolonged high temperatures on consecutive days; AE/AD is the relative increase attributed to linear terms with air pollution; and AF/AE is the relative increase attributed to interaction between PM 10 and temperature.

Estimated contributions from temperature, air pollution, and their interaction to daily number of nonaccidental deaths in Moscow during the heat wave period in the summer of 2010. “Interaction” is between PM 10 and temperature; “pollution” is PM 10 and ozone; “added” is the heat wave effect in addition to the temperature effect; and “main” is the temperature effect.

We chose the order of explanatory variables in Figure ​ Figure4 4 to illustrate what would happen if all pollution is taken away, leaving only temperature as a risk factor. This hypothetical situation would correspond to the area below the D line in the graph. The relative magnitude of the interaction term can be illustrated by comparing the predicted responses of total nonaccidental mortality with increases in PM 10 at varying temperatures. For example, relative increases in mortality per 10 μg/m 3 PM 10 were 0.43% (95% CI % = 0.09–0.77%) at temperature ≤18°C, 0.77% (0.40%–1.13%) at temperature equal to 22°C, and 1.44% (0.94%–1.94%) at temperature equal to 30°C. Risk coefficients for PM 10 and ozone at various time lags after the exposure are reported in the eAppendix ( http://links.lww.com/EDE/A778 ).

Three types of sensitivity analyses were performed to test the robustness of estimated risks to key assumptions of the statistical model. Regarding the method of accounting for temporal confounding, we observed a convergence of the results obtained from models with sinusoidal and restricted cubic splines of day of year. The risk coefficient for PM 10 remained fairly stable when we changed the specification of the main effect of temperature, varying the degree of residual confounding over the course of 1 week after the exposure. Regarding the choice of the heat wave threshold, it is of note that the model based on 99% percentile threshold resulted in a marked reduction in the heat-PM 10 interaction coefficient. This more strict definition led to a later start of the heat wave, a greater influence by the “added” effect of temperature, and relatively less important interaction effects. Model assumptions and results of sensitivity analyses are reported in eTable 1 ( http://links.lww.com/EDE/A778 ).

We also estimated the approximate partial contributions from several risk factors to the total nonaccidental excess mortality during the heat wave period by linearization of the multiplicative model (2). The predominant influence appeared to be from the main effect of temperature, ie, the increased risk attributable to the independent effects of daily temperature levels, which accounted for 40% of the excess number of nonaccidental deaths, corresponding to more than 4300 deaths. Air pollution and temperature-air pollution interaction (exceeding an additive effect) showed shares of 9% and 20%, respectively, corresponding to about 1000 and 2200 deaths. Both PM 10 and ozone were included under “air pollution,” with contributions of 5% and 4%, respectively, while the interaction focused on temperature and PM 10 . The total attributable proportion for temperature effects, including both main and “added” effects, as well as interactions with air pollution, amounted to 91%, whereas the corresponding proportion for air pollution was 29%.

Our study is unique in the combination of the intensity and duration of the heat wave, the high levels of air pollution from wildfires, and the large size of the affected population. These circumstances, together with the high-quality information on daily levels of air pollution and other environmental factors, as well as cause-specific mortality, made it possible to address some crucial issues for risk assessment in relation to climate change. For example, there are no previous data on combined effects on mortality by heat waves and air pollution from wildfires, although exposure to these combined factors is likely to occur more frequently with global warming. The importance of the interaction between high temperatures and air pollution in relation to mortality was highlighted for ozone during the 2003 heat wave in Europe. 22 Overall, the excess number of deaths in Moscow during the heat wave period was more than 10,000, which exceeds the number of deaths during heat waves in Chicago in 1995 23 and Paris in 2003, 24 and illustrates the public health impact of extreme weather conditions.

Most evidence on heat wave–related mortality comes from older people. 4 , 25 We found clear effects in people younger than 65 years, although stronger associations were observed in those above this age. High excess risks were seen primarily for diseases of the cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, and genitourinary systems. Earlier evidence has pointed mainly to associations with cardiovascular and respiratory mortality, but a few studies have also reported heat wave–related excess mortality for mental and renal diseases. 26 , 27 Increased cardiovascular stress, kidney dysfunction, and disturbances of the electrolytic balance caused by dehydration contribute to the more pronounced effects for certain causes of death. We also found excess risks for other common causes of death, including cancer and diseases of the digestive system. This is probably related to poor conditions in hospitals and other treatment facilities, such as lack of air conditioning. In addition, heat wave effects on mortality are affected by both intensity and duration in a complex interplay. 3 , 21 , 28 , 29 Our findings show increasing excess risks with up to 2 weeks of prolonged high temperatures, followed by a downward trend that may indicate harvesting of the most susceptible individuals or the development of better coping strategies with time.

Several studies on particulate air pollution in cities, mainly from traffic and other sources unrelated to wildfires, indicate stronger effects by PM 10 or other measures of particulate air pollution during months with high temperatures. 30 – 32 For example, a study from Korea found a yearly excess mortality of 0.28% per 10 μg/m 3 PM 10 , which increased to 0.57% in the summer. 31 In our data, the excess mortality per 10 μg/m 3 PM 10 increased from 0.43% below 18°C to 1.44% at 30°C. Our results contribute to the available evidence on air pollution from wildfires and mortality, which is limited and inconclusive, 8 – 12 and indicate that interactions with high temperatures are of importance, similar to the situation for urban particulate air pollution. A recent report estimated the global mortality attributable to smoke from vegetation fires to more than 300,000 deaths annually. 33 Our findings provide strong evidence that interactions between high temperatures and wildfire air pollution need to be considered in health risk assessments, particularly because the two often occur together.

In conclusion, our study shows major acute effects on mortality by high temperatures and air pollution during the prolonged 2010 heat wave in Moscow. Effects were seen among the working age population as well as the older population and for causes of death in addition to cardiovascular disease. Mortality related to the prolonged heat wave increased steeply during the first 2 weeks, after which the excess risk gradually tapered off. Interaction between high temperatures and air pollution from wildfires added a substantial number of deaths.

Supported by grants from the Swedish Research Council FORMAS and the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency.

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Editors' note: A commentary on this article appears on page 365.