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Trek Emonda, Madone, and Domane: Which Road Bike is Right for You

Have you decided on Trek for your next road bike but are not sure which one to get? This article can help. There are 3 categories of road bikes that Trek makes: the Emonda, the Madone, and the Domane. The difference between these three bikes is in their geometry, tube profiles, and weight. You might be wondering why this matters so much – it’s because a bike will feel and perform very differently depending on those three things. So if you want to know which one is right for you then keep reading!

Emonda Madone Domane

The short answer

– The Emonda is a lightweight race bike for cyclists who like to go fast and ride aggressively. The lightness of Emonda is perfect for climbing because lighter bikes require less effort to get your bike up hills.

– The Madone is a bit heavier than the Emonda but has an aerodynamic design that makes this bike great for flat terrains. The IsoFlow below the Madone’s seatpost absorbs shocks while allowing air to flow better, which makes this bike more comfortable and aero than the Emonda.

– The Domane’s geometry is more upright than Emonda and Madone, making it a great touring bike for long distances. The Domane can fit wider tires and has the IsoSpeed Decoupler on the seat post that allows small deflection which absorbs road vibration, making it perfect if you plan on doing a lot of off-road riding or going over rough terrain.

Domane is also the only road bike in Trek’s range available at a sub $2000 price point, which makes it the best option for beginners. Although, the alloy Domane AL doesn’t have the same IsoSpeed technology.

Okay, so maybe that was too quick. Let’s talk about each Trek road bike in more detail.

Emonda: The Lightweight, Semi-Aero Race Bike

This is Trek’s lightest bike and it is meant for cyclists who like to go fast. The 2021 and later model has a semi-aero design which means that the tubing of this bike has been shaped in order to decrease its aerodynamic drag, making you faster on flat terrain (and on the climb too, if you’re fast enough).

Emonda is great for climbing because it is lightweight so it requires less effort to get your bike up hills.

Why you should choose the Emonda:

– If you like to go fast and ride aggressively, the Emonda is a great choice for you.

– The light weight of this bike will make climbing easier. If you live in an area with lots of hills and long climbs, the Emonda will be perfect for you.

– You want an agile bike with quick handling that makes you feel fast

Why you should not choose the Emonda:

– If comfort is what matters most to you then this bike might not be your first choice. The Emonda’s lightweight carbon layup is so harsh that you will feel every road imperfection. That said, the harshness is not always a bad thing for experienced riders. Plus, you can use 28mm tires or tubeless setup to make it more comfortable.

– The semi-aero design means that while it is lighter, it’s not as fast compared to other aero bikes, including the Madone in flat road. So if you live in a very flat area or hate climbing, you might want to choose the Madone instead because the weight penalty won’t matter to you.

– You are looking for a bike that can handle rough terrain since the Emonda is not built for this. Go for Domane or Trek’s gravel bike, Checkpoint.

Madone: The Fast, Aerodynamic Race Bike

The Madone is Trek’s most popular road bike model and it has an aerodynamic design which makes this bike great for flat terrains. It has the IsoFlow technology which helps absorbs road vibration and allows a better airflow to reduce drag.

The geometry of the Madone is the exact same as the Emonda. This bike has a bit more weight but this will be unnoticeable when you’re not going uphill, making this bike great if speed matters to you and you live in an area with lots of flats.

Why you should choose the Madone:

– You ride in flat or rolling terrains and want a fast bike that is comfortable

– You are looking for an aerodynamic advantage, especially on flat roads

– You are looking for a stiff bike for sprints

Why you should not choose the Madone:

– If you ride long climbs. Yes, descending with a Madone is a blast because of the aero benefits and stability when slicing through the wind, but the climb won’t be as much fun compared to an Emonda. (Not that it’s not doable.)

– You’re looking for an all-around bike that is quick on the climb and still relatively fast on the flat. The Emonda with its semi-aero profile is built exactly for this. Road Bike.

– You want a bike that can handle rough terrain, then the Madone might not be right for you because even with the IsoSpeed it is still a stiff bike. The Domane is for you.

Domane: The Long Distance Endurance Bike That Can Handle Rough Terrain

The Domane’s geometry is more upright than the Emonda and Madone making this bike perfect if you want to ride long distances. Unlike Emonda and Madone, the geometry of Domane focuses on stability.

The IsoSpeed Decoupler combined with large tire clearances means that you can even use Domane as a gravel bike if you want.

Why you should choose the Domane:

– You ride long distances . Though, keep in mind that you can still use Emonda and Madone for long-distance rides as most people do. Domane is just on a different level in terms of comfort.

– You want a bike that is comfortable and can handle rough terrain like gravel roads or even trails.

– You are looking for an upright geometry that will make your back less tired after many hours of riding.

– You want bikes with an integrated storage compartment. Useful for mini-tools, tubes, and snacks for long rides.

Why you should not choose the Domane:

– If speed is what matters most to you, then this bike might slow you down compared to Emonda and Madone. That said, it might be worth sacrificing a bit in terms of pure speed because the advantages are much more noticeable on long rides.

– You want light bikes. Domane is rather heavy, even heavier than the Madone.

– You want an agile bike. As an endurance bike, Domane’s geometry makes it a stable bike, but stability and agility is on the opposite side of the scale. It’s great for long-distance riding, but not what people prefer in racing bikes.

What kind of rider are you?

If you’re a beginner and not sure yet, I suggest that you choose the Emonda because it’s more versatile and offers better overall performance. The lightweight and agility of Emonda can be very addictive. Madone is a fast bike, but you probably won’t be able to appreciate its aero benefits just yet because most beginners ride at a speed where air resistance is not the significant force.

If you’re an experienced rider and are trying to get into the top 10 or even “KOM” on Strava flat segments, maybe Madone is for you. If you race in criteriums, then Madone might give you an advantage.

Normally, the comfort or stiffness of the bike is another factor for people when choosing between lightweight or aero bikes, because most aero bikes are harsh to ride. But Madone actually feels comfortable and smooth for an aero bike thanks to its IsoFlow technology. In fact, Madone might feel more comfortable than the Emonda.

Finally, choose Domane if you want an all-terrain bike or if your back really can’t handle the more aggressive Emonda and Madone.

Reader Interactions

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October 4, 2022 at 2:36 am

this is great information! Unfortunately, about a year late, however ha ha. I bought my Emonda about a year ago and finding that perhaps a domane would be better suited for my taste and physical preference (50+ :-). I have a question, however… Is it possible to make the Emonda more “upright“ to favor the domane upright position? Perhaps with a different stem?

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October 5, 2022 at 2:42 am

The Domane has about 10-20 mm shorter reach and 30-40 mm higher stack than an Emonda, maybe more in some different sizes. You can use a 20 mm shorter stem and flip it to a positive degree angle to get about the same stack and reach as the Domane. If you already use a short stem (90 mm or shorter), try changing the handlebar to one that has a shorter reach like the Zipp Service Course 70 with has a 70 mm reach compared to the Bontrager handlebars that your Emonda might come equipped with, which has a 100 mm reach.

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October 16, 2022 at 7:54 am

Thanks for very helpful article – I am just in the middle of exactly this decision. I am leaning towards the Émonda as my new road bike. I have a slight hesitation on the comfort side. I ride mostly between 60 and 120 km, but will sometimes be doing longer rides up to 200 km. I am 55 years old but very active. I have a lot of hills around me and want to get better uphill so that’s a big attraction, and I am also pushed to keep up with the club I ride with. Do you think those kinds of distances would be ok. For info I have previously been riding a Lapierre Sensium, so the wider tyre on the sensium will certainly help to some degree. Also, I have a checkpoint as well which I love and would continue for gravel and bike packing etc.

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November 10, 2022 at 1:27 pm

Thank you for this article. Came right on time. I saw a Domane that I really liked and I was about to purchase it however it did seem kind of heavy. Based on this article I think the Emonda would be the best for triathlon training.

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July 8, 2023 at 12:05 am

I would love a madone. But at 55, I’m not sure it would make much difference in my riding. I have a Domane and slammed the stem, made changes to the angle of the bars, got continental tires and try to ride more Aero. It helped and I’m faster but I doubt that the cost difference between domaine and madone could be justified.

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Cycling school

Emonda, Madone, Domane: Your Perfect Road Bike?

Emonda, Madone, Domane: Your Perfect Road Bike?

Have you chosen Trek as your potential brand for the next road bike adventure, yet you’re uncertain about the specific model? This informative piece is here to assist you. Trek offers three distinct categories of road bikes: the Emonda, the Madone, and the Domane. The key distinctions among these bicycles lie in their geometry, tube designs, and weight. The significance of these factors is substantial as they profoundly influence how a bike handles and performs. If you’re eager to determine the ideal choice for your needs, continue perusing this article!

Deciding Between Trek Road Bikes: An In-Depth Comparison

In a nutshell:

  • The Emonda: A feather-light racing bike tailored for those who crave speed and an aggressive riding style. Its lightweight nature makes it a prime choice for uphill climbs, requiring less effort to conquer hills;
  • The Madone: Slightly heavier than the Emonda, the Madone boasts an aerodynamic design that excels on flat terrains. Incorporating IsoFlow technology beneath the seatpost, it efficiently absorbs shocks and enhances airflow, delivering a comfortable and aerodynamic experience surpassing the Emonda;
  • The Domane: Differing from the Emonda and Madone, the Domane showcases a more upright geometry, rendering it an excellent touring companion for covering extended distances. With its ability to accommodate wider tires and equipped with the IsoSpeed Decoupler on the seat post, it absorbs road vibrations through slight deflection. This quality proves invaluable for off-road ventures or traversing uneven landscapes.

Moreover, the Domane stands out as the sole road bike within Trek’s lineup available at a sub $2000 price point, an ideal starting point for newcomers. However, it’s important to note that the alloy Domane AL lacks the same IsoSpeed technology.

If that overview felt a bit hasty, fear not. Let’s delve deeper into the specifics of each Trek road bike model.

domane, emonda, madone and its features- three bike on black background

Emonda: The Feather-Light, Semi-Aero Racing Dynamo

Meet Trek’s embodiment of speed and lightness – the Emonda. Crafted for the avid speed enthusiast, this bike is a champion of rapidity. The 2021 and subsequent models flaunt a semi-aero construction, meticulously shaping the bike’s tubing to slice through the air with reduced drag. This results in heightened speed on both level surfaces and uphill stretches, given you possess the prowess to maintain pace.

Climbing, a realm where effort meets elevation, becomes a triumphant feat with the Emonda’s feather-like demeanor. Its lithe structure diminishes the exertion required to conquer ascents.

Reasons to Embrace the Emonda:

  • If velocity and an assertive riding style are your passion, the Emonda beckons as your ideal companion;
  • Effortless hill conquests await thanks to its weightlessness. For those residing in hilly domains with extended ascents, the Emonda stands as an impeccable ally;
  • Nimble and responsive, this bike’s agile handling imbues a sense of velocity that’s palpable.

Factors to Ponder Before Opting for the Emonda:

  • Should comfort reign supreme in your biking aspirations, the Emonda might not claim the throne. The bike’s lightweight carbon composition, while aiding speed, transmits road irregularities profoundly. Yet, for seasoned riders, this raw feedback could be a boon. Experimenting with 28mm tires or a tubeless setup can augment comfort;
  • The semi-aero architecture, while enhancing lightness, might not match the velocity of dedicated aero bikes, notably the Madone, on flat roads. If your abode is a particularly flat terrain or ascents are your adversary, the Madone might emerge as the favored choice, regardless of the incremental weight;
  • For ventures into rugged terrains, the Emonda doesn’t boast the pedigree. If unpaved paths and challenging landscapes are your destinations, set your sights on the Domane or Trek’s gravel offering, the Checkpoint.

In the realm of swift pursuits, the Emonda stands as a beacon. It beckons those who revel in the symphony of velocity and the challenge of uphill mastery.

Madone: The Swift and Aerodynamic Racing Dynamo

At the heart of Trek’s road bike offerings lies the renowned Madone – a model celebrated for its aerodynamic finesse. Engineered to conquer flat expanses with unrivaled speed, the Madone’s design is an embodiment of aerodynamic prowess. Embedded within its structure is the IsoFlow technology, seamlessly absorbing road vibrations while optimizing airflow to minimize drag.

The Madone’s geometry mirrors that of the Emonda, presenting a kinship in form. Although slightly heftier, this weight differential fades into insignificance when cruising on level terrain. For those in pursuit of velocity within flat landscapes, the Madone emerges as a compelling choice.

Reasons to Embrace the Madone:

  • Your journey unfolds across flat or gently undulating terrains, and you seek a swifter, yet comfortable ride;
  • The allure of aerodynamic supremacy beckons, particularly on straight, level pathways;
  • Your quest entails harnessing a rigidity that excels in sprinting.

Factors to Consider Before Adopting the Madone:

  • If your routes are marked by extended climbs, the Madone might relinquish a touch of the joy experienced with the Emonda. Descending aboard a Madone is a thrill due to its aerodynamic merits and wind-cutting stability, yet uphill pursuits might not match the Emonda’s exhilaration. (Though, certainly not implausible.);
  • For a well-rounded companion capable of both nimble ascents and impressive flat speed, the Emonda, with its semi-aero configuration, fits the bill precisely;
  • In your quest for a ride adept at handling rugged landscapes, the Madone might not be the prime choice, even with the IsoSpeed feature. If versatile performance is your aim, the Domane is designed to meet your needs.

In the universe of velocity and streamlined grace, the Madone stands tall. It beckons those enticed by the siren call of flat speed and aerodynamic dominance.

Domane: Endurance Steed for Distance & Terrain

black bike trek on white background

The Domane’s geometry sets it apart with its more upright stance in comparison to the Emonda and Madone, rendering it an optimal choice for those seeking prolonged rides. In contrast to the Emonda and Madone, the Domane’s geometry prioritizes stability, forming the backbone of its design philosophy.

Fortified by the IsoSpeed Decoupler and boasting generous tire clearances, the Domane transcends its role as a mere endurance bike – it’s equally adept as a gravel road explorer, and even a trail-taming companion if you dare.

Reasons to Embark on the Domane Journey:

  • Your ventures encompass substantial distances. While it’s worth noting that the Emonda and Madone can indeed accommodate long rides, the Domane elevates comfort to an entirely new echelon;
  • The allure of a comfortable ride capable of conquering rough terrains, including gravel roads and trails, beckons;
  • Seeking an upright geometry that minimizes strain on your back during prolonged hours in the saddle;
  • Integrated storage is on your checklist, catering to the needs of carrying mini-tools, spare tubes, and snacks during those extensive rides.

Factors to Reflect Upon Before Choosing the Domane:

  • If speed reigns supreme, the Domane might not parallel the Emonda and Madone in this domain. However, consider the trade-off, as the advantages become notably conspicuous during lengthy excursions;
  • If lightweight construction is a paramount concern, the Domane’s relatively heavier build, surpassing even the Madone, could pose a consideration;
  • For agility enthusiasts, it’s important to recognize that while the Domane’s geometry infuses stability, agility takes a backseat. Suited for endurance endeavors, the Domane shines in extended journeys rather than the rapid pace of racing circuits.

In the realm of extended odysseys and rugged landscapes, the Domane reigns supreme. Its design harmonizes endurance, comfort, and versatility, making it the trusted companion for those who seek the open road and uncharted trails.

What Type of Cyclist Are You?

If you’re taking your initial pedal strokes in the expansive world of cycling, the Emonda beckons as a promising choice. Its versatile nature and well-rounded performance package make it an excellent entry point. The Emonda’s feather-light frame and responsive handling possess a magnetic allure that can easily captivate newcomers. In contrast, the Madone, with its emphasis on speed and aerodynamics, might not resonate as strongly with beginners who may not encounter substantial air resistance at their developing speeds.

For the seasoned riders who’ve felt the exhilaration of conquering steep climbs and dream of earning a place among Strava’s elite or clinching a coveted “KOM” title, the Madone stands tall as the answer. If criterium racing is your forte, the Madone’s aerodynamic edge might just tip the scales in your favor.

When the age-old dilemma between comfort and stiffness arises, often inherent in the choice between lightweight and aerodynamic bikes, the Madone defies convention. It bestows a pleasantly unexpected comfort, thanks to its IsoFlow technology, rivaling or even surpassing the comfort offered by the Emonda.

However, if your aspirations lead you to embrace a versatile companion for all terrains, or if the more aggressive riding postures of the Emonda and Madone strain your back, the Domane awaits with its accommodating geometry and endurance-oriented design. It thrives as the road bike of choice for those who seek comfort, stability, and a seamless transition from smooth roads to uncharted trails.

In the realm of Trek road bikes, the choice between Emonda, Madone, and Domane encapsulates the diverse desires of road cyclists. The Emonda’s lithe build beckons speed enthusiasts, infusing ascents with an air of conquest. The Madone, boasting aerodynamic excellence, invites those enamored with flat speed while surprising riders with its comfort. On the other hand, the Domane’s endurance-focused design and versatility cater to adventurers who seek comfort on extended journeys, even when the path veers off-road. Whether you chase the thrill of uphill battles, the rush of aerodynamic dominance, or the comfort of enduring vast distances, Trek offers a model that aligns with your road cycling aspirations.

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Ruelas Larry

2023 Trek Emonda vs Madone vs Domane

The current Trek road bike lineup, the Emonda, Madone and Domane offer a blend of innovation, performance, and style. Bike expert Alex Lee compares these Trek models, discussing their features, builds, and pricing.

trek emonda or madone

Trek bike names are easy to understand. There are three distinct models; Emonda , Madone , and Domane . Each model is designed to perform well in a particular type of ride.

The general rule of thumb below will give you a clear idea of what the bike is about, where it sits in the lineup, and how it’s specced.

  • SLR models use the top-of-the-line OCLV 800 carbon.
  • SL models use the mid-range, OCLV 500 carbon.
  • ALR is for aluminum frames.
  • Models ending with 9 use Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 or SRAM Red AXS groupsets.
  • Models ending with 7 use Shimano Ultegra Di2 or SRAM Force AXS groupsets.
  • Models ending with 6 use Shimano 105 Di2 or SRAM Rival AXS groupsets.
  • Models ending with 5 use Shimano 105 R7000 groupset.

Trek Emonda

Trek Emonda SLR 9 Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 (R9200)

The Trek Emonda is a lightweight bike for the high mountains.

The lightest Trek Emonda frame weighs less than 700g using Trek’s OCLV 800 carbon. This is the bike Richie Porte rode to his third place in the 2020 Tour de France.

The SLR is the lightest and most expensive atop the Trek Emonda models. There are six Emonda SLR options, specced electronic shifting groupsets from SRAM or Shimano.

Next in line is the SL, the mid-range, more budget-friendly option. It has the same frame design and geometry as the SLR but uses the OCLV 500 carbon instead. The groupset choices are Shimano Ultegra Di2 , Shimano 105 Di2 , SRAM Force AXS , or SRAM Rival AXS .

The Trek Emonda SLR and SL framesets are also available separately.

Trek Emonda vs others

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Trek Madone

Trek Madone SLR 6 SRAM Rival eTap AXS

Dubbed the ultimate superbike, the Trek Madone is all about maximizing aerodynamics and speed .

Trek refreshed the Madone in June 2022, just before the Tour de France started. The new Trek Madone features a radical-looking seat tube with a big hole. The previous IsoSpeed system, which allows the seatpost to flex for extra comfort, is replaced by the IsoFlow Technology. According to Trek, the IsoFlow technology adds an aerodynamic advantage, reduces weight, and smooths the road ahead.

The range-topping Madone SLR is built on the Trek’s lightest OCLV 800 carbon, with a one-piece carbon handlebar. The Madone SL models are still based on the previous Madone frame design and use the OCLV 500 carbon.

The Madone SLR frameset is also available separately.

Trek Madone vs others

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Trek Domane

Trek Domane SLR 6 SRAM Rival eTap AXS

The Trek Domane is designed as an all-day endurance bike .

It can also be referred to as all-road as its wider tire clearance of up to 38c can tackle hard-packed gravel and cobblestones like those in the Paris-Roubaix race . Trek built the Isospeed dampening system in the front and rear to achieve this.

There are carbon and aluminum versions of the Domane. The SLR uses the higher grade, OCLV 800 carbon compared to the SL on the standard, OCLV 500 carbon.

The Trek Domane SL and SLR frames are also available separately for those after a custom-built bike.

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Trek bikes FAQ

What is the difference between OCLV 500 vs 800 carbon?

The OCLV (Optimum Compaction, Low Void) carbon is a proprietary carbon fiber manufacturing technology developed by Trek. It’s available in OCLV 500 and 800.

  • OCLV 500 is a lower-grade carbon but still offers a high level of performance. It has a slightly lower carbon modulus, meaning it’s a bit less stiff and heavier than OCLV 800. OCLV 500 is used in all models with SL .
  • OCLV 800 is the highest-grade carbon fiber used by Trek. The carbon modulus is higher, making it stiffer and lighter. The manufacturing process is more refined, using more advanced carbon and resins, leading to a bike frame that provides top performance levels for stiffness, weight, and strength. OCLV 800 is used in all models with SLR .

It’s worth noting that the different OCLV grades don’t only refer to the material itself but also to the manufacturing techniques used to form the carbon fiber into bike frames. Higher-grade carbon requires more precise manufacturing techniques to take full advantage of its superior material properties.

What is the difference between Trek Emonda and Madone?

The Trek Emonda is designed for climbers and all-around riders who want a lightweight, responsive bike with more traditional geometry. In contrast, the Trek Madone is an aerodynamic race machine built for speed and aggressive riding on flat and rolling terrain.

What is the difference between Trek Emonda and Domane?

The Trek Emonda is designed for climbers and all-around riders who want a lightweight, responsive bike with more traditional geometry.

The Trek Domane is an endurance-focused bike built for comfort on long rides and rougher surfaces, such as cobblestones or poorly maintained roads.

What is the difference between Trek Madone and Domane?

The Trek Madone is an aerodynamic race machine built for speed and aggressive riding on flat and rolling terrain. In contrast, the Trek Domane is an endurance-focused bike designed for comfort on long rides and rougher surfaces, such as cobblestones or poorly maintained roads.

How long is Trek’s warranty?

All Trek bikes come with a lifetime warranty for the frame and fork . This is only applicable to the first owner. Second and subsequent owners are entitled to a 3-year warranty from the initial purchase date.

More about Trek’s warranty policy .

Does Trek have women-specific models?

Trek addresses the women-specific models by having frame sizes as small as 44 for riders between 4’ 11” to 5’ (150 to 153 cm).

These smaller bikes have several modifications, such as shorter crankarms, compact cranksets, shorter stems, narrower handlebars, shorter reach brake levers, and women-specific saddles.

What is the difference between Trek’s H1 and H2 geometry?

The H1 and H2 refer to the frame geometry . Most Trek Emonda and Madone have an H2 geometry known as the traditional fit.

H1 is a racing geometry with the head tube 30mm shorter to achieve a lower and more aggressive position on the bike. Most professional cyclists ride the H1 geometry.

What is Project One?

Project One allows you to customize every detail of your dream bike, from colors to components . You can design it through Trek’s website or a Trek-authorized retailer. Bikes available under Project One are the Domane, Emonda, Madone, and Speed Concept (TT).

Are Trek bikes still made in the USA?

As of December 2017, Trek no longer makes any bikes in their Waterloo and Whitewater facilities in Wisconsin. Before that, they used to make around 20,000 of their high-end bikes (SLR models) yearly there. They are made in Asia and sent to Wisconsin for painting and final assembly.

Which professional cycling team ride Trek bikes?

trek emonda or madone

Today, Trek sponsors its own World Tour team, Trek-Segafredo . The team has men’s and women’s pro teams under the same name. Today riders such as multiple Grand Tour winner Vincenzo Nibali, and former men and women road race world champions , Mads Pederson and Lizzie Deignan currently race on a Trek bike.

In the past, several high-profile riders, such as Fabian Cancellara and Alberto Contador, have ridden Trek bikes during the later stages of their career.

Alex Lee at Mr.Mamil

Alex Lee is the founder and editor-at-large of Mr. Mamil. Coming from a professional engineering background, he breaks down technical cycling nuances into an easy-to-understand and digestible format here.

He has been riding road bikes actively for the past 12 years and started racing competitively in the senior category during the summer recently.

Mr. Mamil's content is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content is not a substitute for official or professional advice. Please do your own due diligence.

Mr. Mamil participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. We also participate in various other affiliate programs, and at times we earn a commission through purchases made through links on this website.

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trek emonda slr 9 etap

The New Trek Émonda Is Faster Than Ever

Already one of the fiercest climbing bikes available, the new Émonda is even faster thanks to a dose of aero.

The Takeaway: The Émonda SLR is a benchmark pro race bike—and it’s surprisingly rider friendly.

  • It has 183 grams less drag than the previous generation, but the frame is only 33 grams heavier
  • There are 10 models starting at $2,699
  • SL models ($2,699 to $5,999) have the aerodynamic shaping and features but in a frame that’s about 400 grams heavier than the SLR
  • SLR models ($6,699 and up) use a new carbon fiber composite that’s 30 percent stronger than Trek’s previous top-of-the-line carbon.

For Émonda SLR bicycles, Trek will provide an individual handlebar and stem until an updated handlebar/stem combo is available.

Additionally, all customers who bring in their handlebars for replacement will also receive a $100 in-store credit that can be used toward any Trek or Bontrager merchandise through December 31, 2022.

Remember professional road racing ? It’s that thing where super skinny people go unbelievably fast up and down hills and fly over flat roads for hours at a time. It’s been a while since the pros have beat up on each other for our entertainment, but there might, hopefully, be some races on the horizon. When the races do resume, Trek’s pro riders will be aboard its new third-generation Émonda climbing bike. The new Émonda isn’t lighter, but it is faster thanks to a dose of aerodynamic tuning.

.css-1hhr1pq{text-align:center;font-size:1.1875rem;line-height:1.6;font-family:Charter,Charter-roboto,Charter-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;}.css-1hhr1pq em{font-style:italic;font-family:Charter,Charter-styleitalic-roboto,Charter-styleitalic-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;}.css-1hhr1pq strong{font-family:Charter,Charter-weightbold-roboto,Charter-weightbold-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;font-weight:bold;} —Five Cool Details—

trek emonda slr 9 etap

Now With Aero

The new Émonda gets a major drag reduction with a tiny weight gain.

trek emonda slr 9 etap

Simple Seat Mast

The seat mast has lots of adjustment range, and an easy-to-use saddle clamp.

trek emonda slr 9 etap

Light and Slippery

The new Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37 wheels are light, sleek, and stable.

trek emonda slr 9 etap

Wide and Threaded

The T47 bottom bracket has a wide stance, and user-friendly threads.

trek emonda slr 9 etap

A built-in chain watcher prevents unwanted derailments.

Making the new Émonda frame more aerodynamic wasn’t exactly a tough hurdle as the previous Émonda had virtually zero aerodynamic optimization. But adding meaningful aerodynamic benefit while achieving the frame stiffness expected of a pro-caliber race bike, maintaining the well-regarded handling properties of the previous Émonda, and adding rider-friendly features like a threaded bottom bracket—all with adding only 33 grams (SLR frame, claimed)—is quite a feat.

Below you’ll find my review of the Émonda SLR—I’ve been on it since early March—followed by a dive into the technology and features of the new bike, and a brief model breakdown.

Ride Impressions: Émonda SLR 9 eTap

trek emonda slr 9 etap

The Émonda SLR is a tool made to fulfill the needs of some of the world’s best road racers. This bike will never be as comfortable or versatile as a gravel bike. Going fast on pavement and climbing performance are its only goals. These are obvious facts, but that’s the lens through which it must be viewed. And through this lens, it is one of the very best.

The new Émonda was born out of a request from Trek’s pro racers and pitched as the company’s “fastest climbing bike ever.” So little surprise they set me up with the lightest model (the SLR 9 with SRAM Red eTap ), which also has a build kit almost identical to the team’s bikes. It’s also, excepting customized Project One builds, the most expensive model at a buck under 12 grand.

That massive pile of clams gets you an aerodynamic frame with disc brakes, power meter, and wireless electronic shifting that weighs less than 15 pounds (54cm). And that’s with a hefty T47 threaded bottom bracket unit, lustrous paint , clincher wheelset, a chain-watcher, standard butyl tubes, 37mm deep rims, 160mm disc rotors front and rear, and SRAM’s largest Red cassette (10-33). That’s “Holy shit!” impressive.

By cutting drag a ton without adding much weight, it’s hard to argue with Trek’s claim that the new Émonda is faster than the outgoing generation. But if you have any doubts, they’ll be erased when you ride it. This is an explosive bike: it feels as light as a feather and as solid as a steel girder at the same time.

trek emonda slr 9 etap

Trek’s Émonda has always been a raw and rowdy bike that feels a little wild and a bit dangerous in precisely the ways you want a race bike to feel: That’s not lost with the added aerodynamics. If anything, the new Émonda is even crisper and punchier than before, which is saying something.

preview for Tested

A small downside to all this fury is the Émonda’s smoothness. Light and stiff race bikes aren’t a smooth-riding lot to begin with, but even measured against a stiffer riding genre, the new Émonda is on the firmer end of the scale. Still, it escapes harsh or punishing labels—I did a six-hour ride on the Émonda on the stock 25 tires and didn’t feel worn down by its ride. Swapping to 28s helped a lot (no surprise) and were on the Émonda for the bulk of my testing. I’d suggest reserving the lighter and more aerodynamic stock 25s for racing or PR attempts—assuming good roads—and use 28s as daily drivers.

The Émonda’s handling is excellent. Well, let me caveat that: Road racing geometry is pretty uniform, so whether I’m on a current race bike from Trek, Specialized, Cannondale, Cervélo, Canyon, Colnago, Wilier, Pinarello, BMC, Giant (etc., etc.), I find the broad strokes of their handling feel and performance quite similar. There wasn’t anything about the Émonda’s handling or cornering performance that set any new benchmarks for me, but there wasn’t anything to dislike either.

trek emonda slr 9 etap

It was quick and accurate, diving into corners with a light touch. It offered great feedback, so I always knew where I was relative to its and my limits, and I could count on it to be consistent and predictable. It was maybe a touch less settled in bumpy corners than the Specialized Tarmac, but the Émonda never broke traction or skipped. Overall, for such a light bike, the Émonda is remarkably solid and drama free. I’d have no qualms barreling down a technical alpine descent on the Émonda.

I received this test bike in early March, giving me plenty of time to ride it back to back with its primary competition—a Specialized S-Works Tarmac , what I consider the benchmark for aero-ized lightweight bikes. The Tarmac is smoother over the bumps and has a silkier feel overall, but the new Émonda feels more efficient, like it can go faster more easily.

I’ve also ridden a good slice of the Émonda’s competition, including the Canyon Ultimate CF SLX , Colnago V3Rs, Cannondale SuperSix Evo , Cervélo R5, Wilier Zero SLR , Pinarello Dogma F12 . These are all superb bikes, but I feel the Émonda is the class leader. It feels sharper and more explosive than all of them. It feels faster, and that’s what matters most in a race bike. But I also like that the Émonda is pretty straightforward and rider-friendly.

trek emonda slr 9 etap

For example, I swapped the stock one-piece bar/stem for a standard stem and round bar. One, I could run a standard bar and stem on this bike, which you can’t say about every modern race bike. And two, I didn’t have to pull any cables, wires, or hoses to make the swap: Again, something you can’t say about all race bikes. For the record, the shape of the one-piece Aeolus bar/stem is great, and the tops are the most comfortable to grab of all the aero-topped bars I've used. The only reason I swapped is my preferred length and width combination (110x40) wasn't available yet.

The BB is threaded, which makes it easier to service and replace than a press-fit (however, I was getting some noise out of the BB area, which I never resolved). The wheels employ standard offset, and it uses regular thru-axles. It’s compatible with pod-style power meters and mechanical shifting. Its signature seat mast is pretty much the only non-standard thing about this frame, and even then, it’s pretty user-friendly. There’s no cutting necessary, height adjustment is ample, the saddle clamp is easy to use, and it’s travel-case friendly.

trek emonda slr 9 etap

I expect so much from a modern high-end pro-level road racing bike that it’s hard to exceed those expectations. It’s rare when a bike does: The Émonda SLR is one of those rare bikes.

Team Request

The new Émonda is partially a result of a request from the Trek-Segafredo race team. “They are one of our primary customers,” said Jordan Roessingh, Trek’s director of road product. “And they started to realize that it’s not just weight, it’s not just stiffness and responsiveness, there’s this other thing—aerodynamics and speed—that’s also really important to be competitive and be faster on the bike. They had been one of the loudest voices saying, ‘We need the lightest-weight, stiffest bike possible.’ And now they started coming back saying ‘We need those things, but we also need the bike to be faster in order for us to be really competitive.’ ”

It is (comparatively) easy to make a light frame, it is easy to make a stiff frame, it is easy to make an aerodynamic frame. Making a frame that’s two of those three things is more challenging: Making a bike more aerodynamic usually makes it heavier, making a bike lighter typically makes it less stiff, etc. Making a frame that is light AND stiff AND aerodynamic enough to satisfy the demands of a top-level professional race team is extremely difficult.

trek emonda slr 9 etap

But not impossible. Many brands already make a light, stiff, and aero bike. The Specialized Tarmac is one, as are the Canyon Ultimate, the Cannondale SuperSix Evo, the Cervélo R5, the Wilier Zero SLR, the Pinarello F12, the Scott Addict, and the new Giant TCR . All of them seek to balance the three qualities—light, stiff, and aero—in the pursuit of the ideal race bike, and they all manage the balance differently. The common thread between these bikes: They’re all used by teams that compete against Trek-Segafredo.

Still Light, Now With Aero

The previous generation Émonda SLR Disc , launched in 2017, was an extremely light frame at 665 grams (claimed). But when a frame is already that light, it is much harder to make it even lighter. At least lighter enough to make a meaningful difference.

emonda drag chart

So, Trek took a different approach to making its climbing bike faster—instead of lighter, it made it more aerodynamic. The new Émonda frame is a touch heavier—yet still extremely light at 698 grams—but the bike has 183 grams less drag than the previous generation.

The important thing to note here is that, though the frame is more aerodynamic, the 183 gram drag reduction is not from the frame only. New wheels and a new aero bar (more info on both below) play a role. The specific setups Trek used to get that 183 gram number are: 2018 Émonda with 28mm-deep Bontrager XXX 2 wheels, and Bontrager XXX Bar/Stem Combo compared to the 2021 Émonda with 37mm deep Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37 Wheels and Bontrager Aeolus RSL Bar/Stem Combo.

trek emonda slr 9 etap

Another drag saving upgrade: the housing, hoses and wires for the controls are almost fully inside the frame. They dive into the frame at the head tube passing through the upper headset bearing. The front brake hose runs into the fork steerer and down the left leg before popping out just above the brake caliper. The fork steerer’s flattened sides provide room for the rear brake hose and derailleur control lines to travel down and into the frame. Though it has flattened sides, the fork steerer is still compatible with standard 1 1/8” stems.

The overall drag reduction results in a bike that is 18 seconds per hour faster when climbing an 8.1 percent grade (the average grade of Alpe d’Huez ), and 60 seconds per hour faster on flat roads than the previous Émonda. Trek also claims the new Émonda is 13 seconds per hour faster than a Specialized Tarmac when climbing an 8.1 percent grade (all assuming the rider maintains a constant 350 watts).

Eight Point One Percent

With three qualities—aero, stiffness, weight—that work in opposition to each other, how do you decide how much to optimize one quality when you know it will negatively affect the other two? How aero is aero enough? At what point is improved aerodynamics offset by the weight added to get there?

The team behind the Émonda used a legendary climb to help them decide: Alpe d’Huez. “It represents an extreme example of what most people see on a regular basis when they’re doing a big climbing ride,” said Roessingh, “It’s around an 8 percent grade, and it’s about an hour-long climb for the pros—amateurs might go a little slower. It gives us a good understanding of what the benefit of a drag savings is relative to a weight savings.”

trek emonda slr 9 etap

By optimizing the weight and aerodynamic balance around this climb, Roessingh claims the Émonda is faster on Alpe d’Huez and also faster on everything shallower than the famous climb, “which is the vast majority of the environments that most riders are going to ride in, including the team,” said Roessingh. “So if we can say it’s faster up Alpe d’Huez, it’s going to be significantly faster everywhere because the flatter it is, the more aerodynamics benefit you.”

Computer-Aided Optimization

Achieving the weight to the aerodynamic balance of the new Émonda required careful design of each tube shape. Aiding the Émonda’s team was supercomputing horsepower. The abridged and simplified version of the process goes like this: into the computer was fed a rough draft of the shape based on Trek’s aerodynamic experience and other information like UCI regulations. The program then varies the tube’s parameters within a predefined range and spit back several iterations of the shape, each with a different weight to aerodynamic balance. The Émonda’s team evaluated the alternatives and picked the one most suited to its location in the frame and best able to help the frame achieve its overarching goal.

Roessingh says that Trek cannot afford to buy the computing hardware necessary to run the CFD and FEA optimizations (in a timely manner) that helped shape the new Émonda’s tubes. The processing happens in the cloud where Trek rents time on Google, Microsoft, or Amazon’s supercomputers. It’s more affordable than buying a supercomputer. Even so, it is not cheap, “Cloud computing is becoming a relatively significant budget line item for us because we’re doing so many of these optimizations in CFD and FEA and all that processing happens in the cloud.”

tube shape comparison of the generation two and three emonda

The new Émonda’s fork legs, head tube, down tube, seat tube, and seat stays all use a variation of a truncated airfoil. The top tube and chainstays, which have virtually no effect on drag, are optimized almost entirely for stiffness to weight.

In Trek’s line, the new Émonda’s aerodynamic performance is equal to the third generation Domane ; the Madone is still significantly more aero. But while the more aerodynamic Madone is faster in flatter terrain, once the climb hits about 5.5 percent, the lighter Émonda becomes the faster bike. And for many of the Trek-Segafredo team riders—and many amateurs—that means the Émonda is fastest when it matters most: the hardest part of a race or ride, which is almost always on a steep climb.

trek emonda slr 9 etap

OCLV 800 Carbon

Getting the new Émonda SLR to be as light as it is while adding aerodynamic shaping would not be possible without employing a new carbon-fiber composite, said Roessingh. The new OCLV 800 composite is 30 percent stronger than Trek’s previous top-of-the-line composite (OCLV 700). Because it is stronger, they can use less: By using OCLV 800, Trek’s team was able to make the Émonda SLR frame 60 grams lighter than if they used OCLV 700.

trek emonda sl 5

The Émonda SLR is very cool, but it’s also very expensive (bike prices start at $6,699). For the 99 percenters, there’s the Émonda SL (models start at $2,699).

The SL uses OCLV 500 composite, and the frame is quite a bit heavier than the SLR’s. The SL’s frame comes in at 1,142 grams, with a 380-gram fork (SLR fork weight: 365 grams).

But material (and weight) are the only difference between the SL and SLR.

Aeolus Bar Stem

While a ton of work made the Émonda’s frame tubes faster, a big chunk of the new bike’s drag savings comes from the one-piece Aeolus bar stem. It alone is responsible for 70 grams of the Émonda’s 183-gram drag reduction. This means that if a traditional stem and round bar are installed on the new Émonda, its drag advantage over the previous-generation bike drops to 113 grams. And it means that you can make any bike with a round bar and traditional stem significantly more aerodynamic by merely installing the Aeolus. Retail price is $650.

trek emonda slr 9 etap

The integrated Aeolus is made of carbon-fiber composite, of course, with a claimed weight of 297 grams (42x120). It’s offered in 14 length and width combinations, from 44x120 to 38x80. Hoses, housing, and wires run externally for easier service and repairs, but in a groove that keeps them out of the wind. A bolt-on plate keeps the control lines tucked and organized where they turn off the bar tops to run in line with the stem.

The Aeolus employs a mount that works with Bontrager’s line of Blendr accessories for mounting computers and lights.

Aeolus 37 Wheels

Another new Bontrager product rolling out with the Émonda is the Aeolus 37 wheelset. It comes in two models: the Aeolus RSL 37 (1,325 grams/pair, $2,400) and the Aeolus Pro 37 (1,505 grams/pair, $1,300).

trek emonda slr 9 etap

The RSL 37 is claimed to be lighter than Zipp’s 32mm-deep 202, yet more aerodynamic and more stable than Zipp’s 45mm-deep 303. Both wheels are disc brake only (only Center Lock interface), tubeless compatible, use DT-Swiss internals, have no rider weight limit, and come with a lifetime warranty.

Surprisingly Rider Friendly

Though the new Émonda is clean and integrated looking and uses high-performance standards, it is also remarkably rider-friendly. Cables, hoses, and housing run externally on the one-piece Aeolus bar/stem for easier repair and service (with one exception: wiring for a Shimano Di2 or Campagnolo EPS bar-end junction box runs partially inside the bar). If you prefer a more traditional cockpit, it can be run with a standard bar and stem with 1⅛-inch steerer clamp.

The bottom bracket uses the threaded T47 standard , which is compatible with almost all common crank-axle standards.

trek emonda slr 9 etap

Front and rear thru-axles are standard 12x100 and 12x142mm, and the wheels employ a standard dish. The standard flat mounts for the brake calipers are compatible with 140, 160, or 180mm rotors.

Tire clearance is officially 28mm, but that’s with a ton of extra space. I fit 32mm tires in the Émonda with ease.

And though all models do use a seat mast, it’s a no-cut variety with lots of adjustment range.

H1.5 Geometry

Trek did offer its top-of-the-line race bikes in the aggressive H1 geometry for riders seeking an ultra-long and low geometry, or H2 which was an endurance fit. The new Émonda is offered only in H1.5, which splits the difference between H1 and H2. The result is pretty typical dimensions for a modern race bike—a 54cm Émonda H1’s geometry is remarkably similar to a 54cm Specialized Tarmac.

There are eight sizes starting at 47cm and topping out at 62cm.

emonda sl 7 etap

There are 10 models of the new Émonda. SL models start at $2,699 and are priced up to $5,999. SLR models start at $6,699 and go up to $11,999.

Only SLR models come with the Aeolus integrated bar/stem stock; and only the Émonda SL 7 ($5,499) and up come with the Aeolus 37 wheelset.

The new Émonda is a disc brake-only platform.

Project One

The new Émonda is in Trek’s Project One paint and parts personalization program. If that’s not luxe enough for you, Trek’s Project One Ultimate program allows you to work with a designer to come up with a one-of-a-kind finish, and Trek will source any parts you want for your new bike.

emonda project one gold flake

Trek Émonda SLR 9 eTap

Émonda SLR 9 eTap

A gear editor for his entire career, Matt’s journey to becoming a leading cycling tech journalist started in 1995, and he’s been at it ever since; likely riding more cycling equipment than anyone on the planet along the way. Previous to his time with Bicycling , Matt worked in bike shops as a service manager, mechanic, and sales person. Based in Durango, Colorado, he enjoys riding and testing any and all kinds of bikes, so you’re just as likely to see him on a road bike dressed in Lycra at a Tuesday night worlds ride as you are to find him dressed in a full face helmet and pads riding a bike park on an enduro bike. He doesn’t race often, but he’s game for anything; having entered road races, criteriums, trials competitions, dual slalom, downhill races, enduros, stage races, short track, time trials, and gran fondos. Next up on his to-do list: a multi day bikepacking trip, and an e-bike race. 

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trek emonda or madone

Based on frame geometry and build specs.

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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Madone SL 7 Gen 7

(descending)

Based on build material and quality level of the frame, fork, wheelset, groupset, suspension system, and more.

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Which Trek Road Bike Should I Get? Madone, Emonda or Domane?

Trek’s road bike range has everything covered, whether you’re looking for outright speed, a lightweight climber or comfort and endurance. If you’re thinking of upgrading or expanding your road line-up, read on to find out whether Madone, Émonda or Domane is the right bike for you. 

Trek Madone: Fast and Aero

trek emonda or madone

The Madone is Trek’s most aerodynamic road bike. It’s built for serious racers and riders who want the ultimate in speed and performance on the flat and more rolling routes. Madone is great for time trials, circuit and road racing or just going out for a blast on your favourite road. 

The new generation Madone made waves when it was unveiled last year, with the IsoFlow seat tube design attracting a lot of attention. This feature puts a diamond-shaped hole where bikes would normally have the tube, offering aero benefits, weight savings and similar ride-smoothing benefits as the IsoSpeed decoupling technology. Trek Madone has a more aggressive geometry than the Domane, meaning it is a bit lower and longer at the front of the bike, putting you in a more aero position so it cuts through the wind and allows you to carry far more speed. Madone is our pick for riders who prioritise pure speed and performance over comfort and climbing. Prices for the latest ‘gen 7’ Madone range from £10,200 for the Madone SLR 7 which comes with electronic 2 x 12 Shimano Ultegra Di2 drivetrain and Bontrager Aeolus Pro 51 carbon wheels (see photo) all the way up to £14,500 for the incredible Madone SLR 9 AXS. However, it is still possible to snap up bikes from previous generations for less, including the  Madone SL 6, which is available in our sale at £4,250. 

Trek Émonda: Nimble and Lightweight 

trek emonda or madone

The Trek Émonda is a nimble lightweight bike, designed for quick response and for outstanding performance on the climbs. The Émonda ALR is Trek’s lightest aluminium bike, but if you’re really looking for weight savings, it’s got to be an SL or SLR model, with the 500 Series OCLV Carbon and 800 Series OCLV Carbon frames, respectively. Both are light but the 800 Series is incredible, weighing in at less than 700 grams. Like the Madone, Émonda’s geometry puts the rider in a more aerodynamic position and the frame features aero styling too, all helping to minimise drag. The Émonda is a great choice for riders wanting a race bike that climbs brilliantly and is responsive around corners.

The Émonda ALR 5 Disc which is currently on sale at £1,980 features a great spec for the price and is perfect if you’re looking to get into racing.

The range tops out at the Émonda SLR 9 AXS at £12,950, which features the 800 Series OCLV Carbon frame, ultra-light Aeolus RSL 37 wheels and SRAM’s highest level RED AXS wireless electronic drivetrain. We think the Émonda SL 6 Pro Di2 is an excellent mid-range pick at £4,625.

Trek Domane: Comfortable and Versatile

trek emonda or madone

The new Trek Domane is the bike for those who want to stay comfortable for longer road rides. When it was released, the latest generation Domane won the women’s 2022 Paris-Roubaix, one of the toughest and roughest terrains you will ever see a racer ride on, with over 90 miles of battering cobbles on the route, so it definitely has what it takes to compete.

Domane features Trek’s innovative IsoSpeed decoupler technology, which isolates the seat tube from the rest of the frame, soaking up the bumps, reducing fatigue and delivering an altogether smoother experience. It also has wider tyre clearance so you can run tyres up to 38c, depending on whether you’re sticking to the roads, taking on varied terrain or heading out on light gravel, which the Domane eats up easily.

This is the perfect bike for riders who are looking for slacker, more upright, stable geometry which is ideal for tourers and weekend explorers, wanting a more comfortable bike. The entry point to the Domane range is the AL 2 at £975, which is an excellent first step into the world of comfortable day-long riding, and it extends to the SLR 9 eTap at £13,400, the official Trek-Segafredo race team replica bike. We are big fans of the new generation Domane SL 6 , that comes with 500 Series OCLV Carbon frame, rear IsoSpeed, powerful flat-mount disc brakes and 2 x12 Shimano 105 Di2 wireless electronic drivetrain which is priced at £4,800 .

Which Trek road bike is for you?

Madone, Émonda and Domane are all excellent bikes, with their own strengths. Deciding which one is best for you obviously comes down to what kind of riding you plan to do. If you want the fastest, most aero road bike possible, then the Madone is a great choice.

The Émonda is another bike that’s favoured by people who want speed but the geometry better suits steeper climbs. Emonda is a great all-rounder for a lightweight bike for weekend racing and week-time club rides.

The Domane is the one for you if you want a road bike that’s still swift but also comfortable for longer days in the saddle and on rougher terrain. 

Come in and speak to our expert team if you need advice on which model and size is right for you. We have dedicated roadies in our team who would love to help. 

You can also ‘try before you buy’ with a test ride in our car park. Remember, we make buying a bike more affordable by offering 0% finance and access to a number of Cycle to Work schemes. Give us a call us on 0121 745 2618 or book a personal bike consultation with one of the team.

trek emonda or madone

trek emonda or madone

Trek Madone, Emonda, Domane - Whats The Difference Anyway?

Trek bikes: a quick history.

From humble origins in a barn in Waterloo, Wisconsin, Trek have become one of the biggest bicycle brands in the world. Producing and selling over 1.6 million bikes every single year they are a dominant force in the consumer bike world.

On top of this, they're equally as dominant in the pro peloton. From the halcyon days of Lance Armstrong, to huge riders like Fabian Cancellara and now with current World champions such as Lucinda Brand and Mads Pederson, Trek have succesfully managed the line between selling lots of bikes around the world in the retail space, whilst maintaining world-leading tech with their pro-oriented level gear.

Given the size of the company they naturally produce a huge and diverse collection of bicycles across almost all disciplines. This can create quite an issue for the novice or those who don't know exactly what they want from the get go.

In this blog we're going to take a quick look at the three main offerings they have for road cycling; the Madone, Domane, and Emonda.

trek emonda or madone

The Trek Madone is their aero-oriented bike where speed is the number one priority. With huge aerodynamically forged carbon tubes it cuts through the air like a hot knife through butter. These tubes create a super stiff and responsive ride that has proven to be popular over the years. 

With the latest iteration, the SLR, Trek have refined the Madone even further to be one of the most accomplished bikes money can buy. Firstly, they're using Trek's brand new 800 OCLV carbon layup, rapidly reducing overall weight of the frame. Secondly, in a first for aero bikes across the whole industry, Trek have introduced their tried and tested ISO Speed decoupler system into the new Madone which allows for an adjustable level of stifffness. Essentially creating a bicycle frame that can be super stiff for the more aggressive rider, or much more comfortable for those of us who perhaps want the pro-level ride without needing to sacrifice  too much.

With it being a current generation Aero bike, we obviously can't forget to mention the deep level of integration that the Madone offers. With a clever system that allows for a fully integrated handlebar and stem whilst also offering the ability to swap both the stem and handlebar around individually of each other. It sets the bar for fully integrated cockpits and introduces adjustability as a parameter to them that wasn't a priority for designers before.

Buy The Madone If:

  • You're looking for a bit of bling, and to be riding the best of the best.
  • You're a lover of all things aero.
  • You've always wanted an aero bike but need to keep back pain and other ailments in mind.

Shop Trek Madone

trek emonda or madone

The Domane line of bikes from Trek represents their offering to the endurance/comfort side of cycling. Despite the slightly less glamourous design brief, the Domane SLR still offers an incredibly responsive and fun ride, just one that you can maintain for a whole weekend of riding rather than a quick two hour loop. 

Many people think more Paris-Roubaix than Tour De France when it comes to the Domane but it's important to note that even ex World Champion Fabian Cancellara was riding a Domane in the peloton back when he was racing. The slightly more relaxed geometry actually lends itself to a better performance on the bike as comfort negates the stress of back and neck strain.

The current generation has some great features that firmly lands the bike in the 21st century. Firstly it has the latest version of Trek's IsoSpeed decoupler system. This system, as seen in the Madone, was the first successful attempt at mass producing some form of suspension within a bike frame. It has featured in the Domane for years now and has even managed to make it's way into the aero offering, which is quite the feat. Without getting too technical, the IsoSpeed acts as a decoupler between two tubes allowing a level of movement there that acts as a form of suspsension. The benefits of this system are huge, massively reduced road buzz and compliance through the frame, without actually adding a bouncy feeling of suspension to the bike. It has proved to be and continues to be incredibly popular.

The Domane also offers plenty of other nice additions to the frame that set it apart from the rest; a storage area in the downtube, huge tyre clearance (we have actually seen these run as gravel bikes with no problem), sleek internal routing gives it a modern look/

Buy The Domane If:

  • You want a bike that you can ride often and for long.
  • You like a wider tyre.
  • You need a more relaxed geometry.

Shop Trek Domane

trek emonda or madone

The Emonda's USP has always appealed to a bit of a niche corner of the market; it is incredibly light. So light in fact that it has for years been known as one of if not  the lightest mass-produced bike frame available. But the little known secret of these super lightweight climbing bikes is that position and geometry wise, they actually represent a highly lucrative and profitable place for the cyclist.

Somewhere between the super-aggression of the Madone and the super-comfort of the Domane, the Emonda's geometry offers a snappy and responsive ride that won't break your back. 

They're also incredibly light - scary light. We have had one in store that weighed just 4.8kg! Sure, this might not be in the reach of most people or even to their liking but their is a very simple fact to the Emonda that the others can't come close to. By being a super lightweight starting point, no matter what build you buy or do, it is going to be considerably lighter than the competition. This means that on those horrible climbs there's going to be even less weight being lugged up and thus getting the pain over with sooner.

Like most current generation aero bikes, the Emonda SLR has seen a push to slightly more aerodynamic design features. So gone have the round tubes of days gone by and in come slightly more tear dropped and aerodynamically functional tubing. There is also the addition of more integration, with internal cable routing and the ability to run a fully integrated bar and stem. But all these mod cons don't add needless weight. They help to improve an already world-class bike, which still somehow keeps that overall weight down without needing to be a bare bones frameset.

Buy The Emonda If:

  • You're a weight weenie and love seeing how light a bike you can make.
  • Neither an all-out aero or all-out endurance geometry is for you.

Shop Trek Emonda

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Trek Emonda SL6 Pro review

Trek's latest GC/climbing bike has undergone an aero transformation, but has it helped?

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trek emonda sl6 pro

The radical changes brought about in this new Emonda frame are somewhat hampered within the SL range owing to the heavier nature of the frame and subsequent ride quality of the 500 Series OCLV carbon. It is a solid all-round performer and there's no getting away from the fact the ride quality provides a good balance of efficiency and ride comfort. It's just if you were looking for an improvement on the ride of the previous model you'll need to hold off and get one of the higher level SLR models to truly see improvements.

Efficient power transfer

Excellent handling prowess

Compliant ride

New SL frame has lost some of the excitement of the existing Émonda

Heavy for a 'climbing' bike

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

James Bracey

Trek recently released a brand new re-imagining of the Emonda, the brand's lightweight climbing/GC model platform, featuring a drastically aero-ised chasis. The model family is split into a higher tier SLR and the lower SL range that this SL6 Pro sits in, the critical difference is in the carbon layup and the enhanced integration sported by the SLR range.

The frame on the Emonda SL6 Pro is constructed of Trek's own 500 Series OCLV carbon fibre. This carbon layup might be heavier than the newly showcased ultra light 800 Series OCLV of the top level SLR Émonda's but is considerably more economical to produce, helping keep the SL range prices in a much more affordable tier.

>>> The Trek Madone gets an update, but you won't spot it

The new Emonda features a completely new set of tube shapes, most of which have gone down the aero route. But Trek is at pains to keep the comparisons to the Madone aero race bike to a minimum; this isn’t simple a ‘Madone Lite’. Rather than being the same elongated shapes as found on a proper aero race bike, the aero shaping of the Emonda’s tubes is much more subtle and is based around the principle of unsteady aerodynamics.

>>> Best road bikes reviewed

In this case it’s more about how drag is affected through wind gusts and other factors at slower speeds than the usual 45km/h, after all, not even pros climb at these speeds. There are still the characteristic truncated airfoil shapes that we associate with aero frames but the effect is far less dramatic and produces a frame that still has a traditional look.

Trek Madone SLR9 Disc review

Trek hasn’t jumped on the dropped seatstay bandwagon with the new frame either, preferring to stick to a set of widely spaced yet aero shaped, thin seat stays.

The new frame also enjoys a little more integration, bringing it more in-line with the Madone. All models now see the cable routing brought neatly into the frame at the front of the headtube keeping the front end profile as slippery as possible.

The other notable feature of the new frame is a wholesale move to the T47 bottom bracket standard . This style marries the reliability of a threaded shell with the capability of running larger diameter internal bearings and enables Trek to maintain its characteristic wide and efficient bottom bracket stance.

The new Emonda range has also been designed with Trek’s middle-ground H1.5 geometry ensuring a set of numbers that sits it half way between the ultra-aggressive pro H1 and its laid back and relaxed, endurance specific H2 geometry. A tall stack of split spacers under the stem provides plenty of height adjustment for a wide range of rider requirements.

And finally, keeping the Emonda in a pretty rigid user set Trek has bucked another trend and limited tyre clearance to just 28c putting the focus of the bike purely on road going high performance.

The SL6 Pro sits near the top of the SL range and as such has a a pretty decent spec sheet. A mechanical Shimano Ultegra is the least we would expect at the +£3,000 price point and we don't need to point out how reliable and consistent it is in providing smooth shifting and braking.

As with the entire Emonda range the SL6 Pro runs on Bontrager wheels; Aeolus Elite 35 to be precise. These feature a carbon 35mm depth and complement the new 'aero' frame without compromising too much on weight and climbing ability. They feel stiff under power and spin up to speed relatively quickly. There are lighter and faster wheels that would suit the new frame but at this price point the Aeolus Elite is spot on. The tyres are Bontrager as well, in this instance 25mm R2 Hardcase Lite tyres. These are not Bontrager's fastest tyres, more classed as an everyday tyre with plenty of puncture protection.

In a complete whitewash the entirety of the finishing kit is also provided by Bontrager. Unlike the integrated carbon bar/stem of the higher end SLR models, the SL6 Pro is fitted with a standard aluminium handlebar and separate stem, allowing for much simpler cockpit customisation. Despite the more ordinary setup the cable routing is still really neat underneath the stem without needing any additional housing.

The Émonda maintains the 'reversed' seat post, with a larger diameter seatpost mast fitted over the seat tube. This allows for plenty of adjustment plus further lengths are available if needed. The Bontrager Aeolus saddle also stands out for being incredibly comfortable even when sat right on the nose.

I was curious to see if the new Emonda was able to improve on the ride quality of the highly rated existing version and the short answer is yes, well kind of....

The first thing to note is that in this new guise, the lower SL version I have on test feels a little chunky at over 8 kilograms - not something you expect when the bike's raison d'etre is all about low weight and climbing. However a total mass doesn't always equate to an anchor of a ride experience and this is true of the Émonda.

Trek has managed to provide a level of stiffness around the bottom bracket that enables the Émonda to deliver in its promise of rewarding effort. Granted it takes less effort to maintain speeds on flat and rolling terrain, much like the Madone aero bike, and I'm certain it is a 'faster' bike than the last version. But I can't help but feel that this new design has stifled some of the existing model's lively and exciting ride nature - it feels like using adjectives such as solid and dependable is more appropriate, almost like the Domane endurance bike.

Trek's relaxing of the geometry on the Emonda has increased its ability to keep you comfortable and riding hard on a long ride and I had no issue taking on some challenging and long routes around Dorset and South Wales. The tall stack of shaped and split spacers sit the cockpit a little too high for my personal preference but luckily I was able to drop the stem height by using some standard spacers on top of the stem, without needing to cut the steerer. This put a little more weight on the front wheel which enabled me to descend the Émonda with aplomb and happily stuff it into downhill corners at high speed without any of the vague feeling that can come with a front end that is a touch too high.

Climbing is where the Emonda should thrive and it certainly is no slouch on your typical British climb, however it doesn't set the tarmac alight and the near eight kilo weight does neuter the Émonda's ability to counter attack when your riding mates try to accelerate away from you on a climb.

It feels like I'm being a little harsh and critical of the Emonda SL6 Pro, after all in most respects it is a solid all-rounder and I have enjoyed my time riding the bike over the last few months. It's a great looking bike and I expect most riders will be satisfied with the performance, it's just I feel it has a lost a little of the magic the old version had. If you are looking for the sort of engaging ride the Emonda is known for I suspect you would need to save your pennies and opt for one of the lighter SLR options and certainly if it was my money that would be what I would need to do.

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James Bracey's career has seen him move from geography teacher, to MBR writer, to Cycling Weekly's senior tech writer and video presenter. He possesses an in-depth knowledge of bicycle mechanics, as well as bike fit and coaching qualifications. Bracey enjoys all manner of cycling, from road to gravel and mountain biking.

Lotte Kopecky comments on her second place result after her last-minute call up to Trofeo Alfredo Binda

By Emma Magnus Published 17 March 24

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From Philipsen’s first Monument victory to Pogačar’s Poggio attacks, this year’s edition of La Classicissima left us with a lot of talking points

By Joseph Lycett Published 17 March 24

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Trek Emonda SLR 9 eTap Long-Term Review: Light for Climbing, Slippery for Speed

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Trek Emonda SLR 9 eTap long term review

Trek has touted the Emonda as its climbing bike since introducing it in 2014. But the 2021 revision threw aerodynamics into the light-is-right alchemy, producing a road race bike that blurs category lines.

Editor’s note:  Trek issued a recall on this bike and is replacing the integrated stem and handlebar free of charge to the customer. Learn more in our full article .

The claimed aerodynamic gains over the prior model are huge. Trek states that the current Emonda is 60 seconds faster per hour at 350 watts of output on the flats. The claimed gain on an 8% grade is 18 seconds.

And the bike is still substantially lighter than Trek’s aero road race bike, the Madone. The current equivalent Madone has a claimed weight of over 1.3 pounds heavier than the Emonda SLR 9 eTap.

I used the Trek Emonda SLR 9 eTap as a long-term review bike, putting it on the roads for 18 months. The bike rolled across super smooth, new tarmac and neglected country blacktop. I tested other parts on the bike and took it on several trips to ride terrain different from my home in the Hill Country of Central Texas. It has been in my testing rotation longer than any bike.

In short: The Trek Emonda SLR 9 eTap is a pure race bike at the highest end. Although it may be called a climbing bike, the new aerodynamics vault it into a well-rounded road racing machine of the highest caliber. And it still satisfies the weight weenies.

How Aero Is the Emonda?

Aerodynamics on a bicycle frame is mainly dependent on tubing shapes. And often, going “full aero” means losing vertical compliance, which hinders comfort. Super aero tubing also often adds weight.

Trek had to walk fine lines to keep the weight and compliance advantages and maintain lateral and torsional stiffness. But engineers wanted substantial free speed offered by improved aerodynamics.

Modern bike designers use CFD (computational fluid dynamics) and CAD (computer-aided design) to help them in their quest for the ultimate alchemy of shapes to produce the intended results. And Trek claims they scrutinized every inch over hundreds of CFD and CAD models.

Trek Emonda SLR 9 eTap long term review

The result is truncated-airfoil profiles other than the seat tube, which is still round. Trek also went integrated, with a one-piece bar and stem that hides the cables from the wind.

The claimed reduction in drag is 182 g, with the claimed frame weight for an unpainted 56 cm size being 698 g.

Somewhat surprisingly, Trek kept the non-dropped seat stays. This greatly pleased my antiquated tastes in bicycle aesthetics.

Other Significant Frame Changes

Trek didn’t stop at the truncated airfoil. The brand incorporated several other significant changes.

Trek Emonda Geometry Long term review

Trek used to offer aggressive (H1) and more upright (H2) geometries but split the difference on the new Emonda SLR with the middle-of-the-road H1.5. This singular geometry follows the lead of the full aero Madone.

Surprisingly, Trek omitted women’s-specific Emonda frames. But it does offer a full spread of sizes, from 47 cm to 62 cm.

T47 Bottom Bracket

Gone is the BB90 press-fit bottom bracket. A T47 threaded bottom bracket takes its place, pleasing home mechanics everywhere. The BB90 was reportedly problematic, although I never experienced issues with any Trek BB90 bottom brackets.

Not only does this follow the current trend to a homologated bottom bracket standard, but T47 also allows oversized crank spindles where BB90 did not.

800 Series OCLV Carbon

Trek Emonda SLR 9 eTap long term review OCLV carbon

Trek’s longstanding OCLV (Optimum Compaction Low Void) carbon on the Emonda SLR frame moved from 700 series to 800 series, purportedly to allow aero profiles without a concomitant increase in weight.

The Waterloo, Wisconsin-based brand claims the new carbon contains fibers that are 30% stronger, with the same amount of stiffness as before, and with no gain in mass. This means less material is required to maintain the same positive characteristics, which translates to aero shapes without adding weight.

Trek also developed over 50 new carbon layups (how the carbon fibers are aligned) to create the new 800 Series OCLV. Real-world testing of the final layup choices was done by the professional Trek-Segagredo team. And the brand builds these frames in Waterloo.

Trek Emonda SLR 9 Ride Experience

trek emonda long term review side shot

Testing high-end road bicycles these days is an act of trying to split hairs that have already been split. All these bikes are sublime. Any differences in performance are minuscule, and much of it is subjective. But here’s my best attempt after 18 months of solid use.

Damn, It’s Light

There is no getting around how light the bike is (our 56 cm tester weighs a verified 14 pounds, 5 ounces with tubed tires). That attribute alone brought me joy when accelerating or climbing. The Emonda SLR 9 eTap floated like a butterfly. No need for more explanation. Remember when race bikes were 21 pounds?

The H1.5 geometry fits me exceptionally well. I have had custom-built titanium road race frames, and if I ever ordered one again, I would replicate the Emonda SLR geometry.

I am 6 feet tall, but my inseam is only 32 inches, making my torso long. My lower back is accustomed to road racing positioning, but my hips and hamstrings are not exceptionally flexible. I found the reach and stack spot on, and the stock-integrated 100mm stem, without spacers, was also perfect.

The 42cm-wide bars of the Bontrager RSL felt correct, but I had to move the SRAM Red brake hoods a touch higher up the bar’s primary curve to feel comfortable. Moving the hoods up the bar created slack in the brake hoses that was hard to manage. The stiff hoses run straight from the underside of the bars through the head tube.

A tiny range of brake hose lengths will provide a clean run. So this is a concern to anyone that wants to change the dimensions of the front cockpit. But lines are not threaded through the bar, simplifying at least that part of the process.

Stiffness vs. Compliance

Trek Emonda SLR 9 eTap bottom bracket and driveline long term review

Climbing out of the saddle and sprinting revealed that the Trek Emonda SLR chassis is plenty stiff laterally and torsionally about the head tube. The bottom bracket felt equally rigid, and I never felt like the frame was squandering energy.

Riding a stiff, efficient bike typically means trading off some vertical compliance and comfort. And I felt the Emonda SLR chassis sat on the efficient side more than the comfortable side. But it wasn’t overly so, as it tends to be with super light bikes. Much of how the bike felt regarding compliance came down to wheels and tires.

Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37 wheels trek long term view

The Emonda SLR 9 eTap came with tubeless-ready Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37 wheels, which felt like a great all-around road wheel. But the Bontrager R4 320 tires (with tubes) were 25c. I felt wider tires on hookless rims with lower air pressures would drastically improve the comfort. Trek states that the frame can accept 28c tires.

It was ridden with various wheels and tires over 18 months as a long-term review bike. Using hookless wheels, 28c tires, and lower pressures improved comfort drastically.

Zipp 353 NSW wheels on trek side shot long term review

I felt like just swapping the tires to 28c on the RSL 37 stock wheels would be such a welcome change. But going to a wheel like a Zipp 404 Firecrest or Zipp 353 NSW with the ability to use lower pressures (for me, on those wheels, I ran under 72 psi) was an absolute game changer.

It gave me the best of both worlds. A light, super efficient bike that kept me comfortable over long hauls on rough chip seal blacktop.

As expected, the Trek Emonda SLR 9 eTap was a snappy, quick-turning bike. On twisty tarmac, it felt like it wanted to turn about the head tube axis, with the rest of the bike to follow — more of a “turn and flick” instead of the other way around. It was one of the quicker-steering road bikes I’ve tested over the last few years.

Yes, the bike required attention on the straights and in groups, but I never thought it was twitchy or nervous. It reacted to small inputs without delay, but that’s what I expect in a WorldTour race bike. The bike wasn’t a lazy café cruiser, and it shouldn’t be.

On wider radius turns on smooth pavement at high speeds, the Emonda was pure joy. I felt the chassis was reading my mind, putting the tire contact patches precisely where I desired, and fed me the tactile information I needed to predict how it would respond to any slight irregularities in the road.

How Fast Is the Trek Emonda SLR 9 eTap?

The bike came with a SRAM Red eTap AXS groupset with a power meter. And I’m familiar with the power output versus speed on my regular routes. I’m not a human strain gauge, but subjective feelings mated with the power output did convince me that for a “non-aero” bike on moderately aero wheels, the Emonda SLR 9 eTap was a rocket.

On calm days on smooth, flat pavement, the feeling of speed while churning a tall gear was palpable and brought a big grin to my face. Trek’s data points to an aero gain while climbing, but I felt the bike’s super light weight and stiffness contributed more to my feeling of speed on ascents.

With either the Bontrager RSL 37 wheels or the mentioned Zipp wheels, I didn’t feel any buffeting or other negatives of aero profiles except in extremely windy conditions. Only once did the buffeting cause an unstable feeling to the point where I tensed up.

I had exited the cover of trees on a speedy descent, and the sudden, super-gusty, 90-degree crosswind got me pretty good. I cannot say that about other “full aero” setups, which I’ve found somewhat puckering when large trucks pass me.

So, in the end, I felt like the aero gains of the new tube shapes delivered free speed without much downside.

Final Thoughts

Trek Emonda SLR 9 eTap side shot long term review

One trend in cycling that I don’t necessarily like is the continued segmentation of products. The number of mountain bikes one could “need” is astounding. And coming from road racing in the ’80s, the “need” for a climbing bike and an “aero” bike seems superfluous. Now throw in gravel rigs, and you could have a garage full of bikes.

I can somewhat understand having multiple mountain bikes, as different terrains’ travel and handling requirements dictate wholly differing chassis. But road bikes? Most of us will never see the level of competition that demands different chassis and a slew of wheels. But plenty of serious recreational cyclists buy high-end road bikes, and it’s the category that splits choices into “aero” and “climbing.”

Although Trek labels the Emonda SLR 9 eTap as a “climbing” bike, with the aero gains, it makes a perfect all-around high-end road bike. It’s under the minimum legal weight for the WorldTour, satisfying the weight-obsessed.

It has enough aero shaping for legitimate free speed gains, yet it doesn’t ride like a brick (especially with wider tires and lower pressures). And it’s super efficient.

The MSRP of the Trek Emonda SLR 9 eTap is an astonishing $13,000 . It sits at the top of the Emonda SLR lineup. But the pricing is in line with other bikes of the same caliber. And for that money, to me, the bike should perform well in all areas. Which it absolutely did.

Trek does offer Emonda SL bikes with the same aero gains at a much lower price, using 500 Series OCLV carbon.

trek domane

Trek Domane Gets Racier, Looks to Keep Reputation for Comfort

Trek cut up to 1.5 pounds of frame weight off the Domane, its all-around road bike that cyclists have long known for a comfy ride. Read more…

Seiji Ishii user profile headshot

Seiji Ishii is Editor at Large at the AllGear network and the Climbing and Cycling editor at GearJunkie.

He has been writing about cycling, climbing, outdoor endeavors, motorsports, and the gear and training for those pursuits for 20+ years.

Before AllGear, Ishii was a freelance contributor to print and web publications related to his interests and professional experiences. He continues to pursue climbing and cycling objectives seriously.

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Test riding the new Trek Émonda

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

Earlier this week Trek revealed its new Émonda range, the result of several years spent trying to develop the lightest production race frame on the market. While a few riders from the Trek Factory Racing team were riding the Émonda at the recent Tour du Suisse, and the Criterium du Dauphine, it wasn’t until Tuesday that Trek officially unveiled the bike to the press. CyclingTips’ roving reporter Dave Everett was in Yorkshire to learn more about the new frame and take it for a test ride.

Trek’s road line-up already has a frame to soak up the rough roads –the Domane — and an out-and-out race bike, designed to be fast, twitchy and cut through the air — the Madone. The one place Trek hadn’t ventured until now was an attempt to build an ultra lightweight racing machine.

The Émonda is the final piece in Trek’s now three-tiered frame range structure. With a new sales catchphrase of “choose your weapon”, Trek now has a bike that should appeal to any of the key racing markets.

For a bike brand to claim to have the lightest production bike on the market they really need to back this up with exact figures, and they made a point of sharing those figures. Previously the Cannondale Super Six Evo Black Label has been able to claim this sought-after honour as the lightest production bike, at 5.6kg for a 56cm frame. Trek, though, has managed to make a significant improvement on that with the Émonda SLR10 which weighs in at 4.65kg for a 56cm frame.

The build on this particular model is very well specced, using several parts from German lightweight component specialists Tune, including wheels, saddle and skewers, a SRAM Red drive set and Trek’s new direct-mount brakes that look very industrial. Steering is taken care of by Trek’s new one-piece bar and stem combo. The price is obviously at the high end too, at $15,999 for a full build on this model.

The SLR Frame alone tips the scales at 690g; 20g lighter than the Cannondale Super Six Evo and 187g lighter than the Specialized SL4 (the new Tarmac is heavier still). The SLR fork weighs 280g and it’s a new slender-looking fork compared to those seen on the Domane and Madone.

The Trek Emonda, as seen in action at the Dauphine recently.

It’s reportedly taken Trek 30 months of research and development to get to the point where they are happy that the new bikes can perform to a standard that the company, its customers and the race teams are happy with.

The name Émonda derives from the French verb “émonde”, which means to prune or trim away. Of course it’s been butchered a little bit to use the same letters as the names “Domane” and “Madone”.

The bike may be light but Trek wanted it to pass all of the company’s and the industry’s stringent quality and durability tests — this was to be a light bike that not just the skinny racing snakes could use but a bike that any angry racing guy or weighty sportive rider could get benefit from.

From the ground up this Émonda bike range is all new — there is no carry over from either the Domane or Madone lines. Each of the three bikes in the Émonda range — the S (entry), SL (mid-level) and SLR (top) — were to be the lightest bikes in their respective categories. The bikes also come in women’s versions too, and with some absolutely stunning paint jobs.

Trek Factory Racing and the MTN-Qhubeka teams have helped with this development, though one can only feel sorry for these guys who will have to either use heavier components or weigh the bike down to use it in UCI-sanctioned races.

The development and refinement of the Emonda took years, and plenty of prototypes.

The geometry of the frame sits between the Domane and the Madone. When the Domane was introduced the difference between that bike and the Madone’s geometry wasn’t hugely different. Trek then reworked the Madone’s geometry in 2012 to make it an out-an-out race machine — more aggressive and faster in corners.

For the Émonda, Trek has revived a large proportion of the geometry of the old 2011 Madone. It’s not as twitchy as a Madone, but it’s not as relaxed as a Domane. It sits happily between the two.

Away from the SLR version, the SL frame comes in at 1,050g (56cm) and the fork at 358g (240mm steerer tube). This build uses 500 series OCLV carbon where the SLR uses 700 series. The direct-mount brakes are replaced with standard calliper brakes and the fork, unlike the SLR, isn’t of the asymmetric type. But that’s pretty much where the differences end — both have a BB90 bottom bracket, a new ride-tuned seatmast and the DuoTrap S speed sensor that has been updated to make it slimmer and more integrated.

A step further down the range is the S model which, with 300 series OCLV carbon, weighs 1,220g on a painted 56cm frame with a fork of 518g. There is no ride-tuned seat mast; instead a standard and now more common 27.2mm seat post is in its place. Cables are externally routed, the bottom bracket is BB86 press fit and the bike comes with the original DuoTrap sensor and an E2 tapered fork.

Starting at $1,899 the Émonda S4 comes with a Shimano Tiagra groupset. The SL range starts at $2,899 with Shimano 105 throughout, and the first rung of the SLR range — the SLR6 — lands at $6,999 with an Ultegra 6800 build up.

P1040930a

The test-ride

I managed to get a solid ride on the new Émonda after I was lent the SLR8 version. This build features: a Dura Ace mechanical groupset; Bontragers latest XXX integrated bar and stem combo; the Bontrager Aeolus 3 carbon clincher wheels; and saddle, tyres and finishing kit from the in-house brand too. The brushed matt black frame looked clean and simple in the rare Yorkshire sunshine.

Though the four hours I had with the bike were nowhere near enough to fully judge it, I felt I got a solid understanding of how the bike rides and handles.

I rode a large proportion of stage 1 of this year’s Tour de France, from just outside the village of Hawes — where the climb of Cote du Buttertubs starts — through to the finish in Harrogate. I ride these roads regularly as I live close to the area, so I was able to get a good understanding of how it handled compared to my usual ride, a Swift U-Vox 2012 model.

The first noticeable thing for me was not so much the weight but how planted the bike felt on the road. Even at 6.15kg the bike didn’t seem to skip or jump when hitting potholes or rough surfaces. Even strong crosswinds didn’t throw the bike about — it sat nicely holding the road at all times.

Descending on it quickly gave me confidence and the learning curve of knowing how the bike will react to cornering came naturally and quickly. The wheels and brake setup were a slightly different matter though. Long descents had the brakes squeaking and on two occasions I managed to lock up the rear wheel in to a very sharp corner. The Dura Ace direct-mount brakes were without a doubt some of the most powerful I’ve used. This is where more time riding the bike would have me learning where that “biting point” is.

P1040932a

Climbing the Cote du Buttertubs (or just Buttertubs as it’s usually called when the Tour’s not taking it in) was as close to a pleasure as a hard climb can be. Accelerations when climbing flung the bike from under me; when standing the front end felt light and lively underneath me. The one minor niggle I did find was that the cable routing seemed to rub against my knee when out of the saddle.

The fact that I found myself using a slightly smaller sprocket than usual just showed what comes in to play when you’re riding a lighter bike (the Émonda is 1.5kg lighter than my Swift).

I’m sure the wheelset had a part in the nature of this bike’s acceleration and climbing prowess. The wheels got up to speed quickly and stayed there with very little effort. It was just the braking that I felt let this item down.

Throughout the ride I surprised myself at how long I was able to stay in the big ring — the area doesn’t usually allow for the chance to romp away in the big dog for long periods of time. The short sharp climbs soon take their toll on the legs if you attack them in the 52- or 53-tooth chainring, even with a 25 on the back. With the Émonda I found myself definitely using the big chainring a lot more than I would normally.

The whole package of this bike is what I’d class as solid. The geometry of the bike plants it feet firmly on the road, the lightweight build gives so much advantage over a bike frame that may be carrying 300-500g more and the power transfer was as direct and responsive as you’d expect from a race-ready build.

P1040945a

The new XXX bar/stem combo at first didn’t sit well with me — I felt the shape of the bar at the top seemed to want to throw my hands forward and downwards, plus I was sure I could feel a fair amount of flex in the setup. Is this what happens when you try to reduce a product’s weight too much? At 240g for a 42mm by 120mm it’s a light setup for your steering option.

But after two hours of riding I’d changed my mind — the flex in the bars helped alleviate a large amount of road shock. That said, the slight flex I felt may be a slight put off for pure sprinters. The shape of the bars and where my hands sat on top grew on me quickly, though I feel I’d need more time to get used to it. I did find myself sitting comfortably in the drops for extended periods, which was a pleasant surprise.

Overall the bike rides exceptionally well, unless you ride on cobbles or real rough stuff regularly. The Émonda sits right between the Domane and the Madone and is well balanced for it.

Sure the bike is light and it shows this quality when the road heads upwards, but the way it sits on the road, the comfort and handling are all areas that I feel it excels in in equal measures. It may not be sold on these points but they are qualities that shouldn’t be overlooked.

I’d love the chance to try riding the Émonda again, maybe with a wheelset I’m already familiar with to see how hard I could push it and see where its limits are.

 

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success\"}}\u0027>\n will the van der poel-philipsen bromance survive alpecin-deceuninck\u2019s milan-san remo success\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"power analysis: inside milan-san remo, the longest one-day race in the worldtour","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/power-analysis-milan-san-remo-2024\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/power-analysis-milan-san-remo-2024\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"power analysis: inside milan-san remo, the longest one-day race in the worldtour\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/power-analysis-milan-san-remo-2024\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"power analysis: inside milan-san remo, the longest one-day race in the worldtour\"}}\u0027>\n power analysis: inside milan-san remo, the longest one-day race in the worldtour\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"from gold medalist to gravel racer: gravel just got its most decorated ex-worldtour pro yet","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/greg-van-avermaet-gravel-racing\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/greg-van-avermaet-gravel-racing\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"from gold medalist to gravel racer: gravel just got its most decorated ex-worldtour pro yet\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/greg-van-avermaet-gravel-racing\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"from gold medalist to gravel racer: gravel just got its most decorated ex-worldtour pro yet\"}}\u0027>\n from gold medalist to gravel racer: gravel just got its most decorated ex-worldtour pro yet\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"bishop\u2019s stunning, geometry pushing track bikes: philly bike expo","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-gear\/bishopbikes-stunning-geometry-pushing-track-bikes-philly-bike-expo\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-gear\/bishopbikes-stunning-geometry-pushing-track-bikes-philly-bike-expo\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"bishop\u2019s stunning, geometry pushing track bikes: philly bike expo\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-gear\/bishopbikes-stunning-geometry-pushing-track-bikes-philly-bike-expo\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"bishop\u2019s stunning, geometry pushing track bikes: philly bike expo\"}}\u0027>\n bishop\u2019s stunning, geometry pushing track bikes: philly bike expo\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"torbjorn andre r\u00f8ed triumphs at mid south debut","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/torbjorn-andre-roed-triumphs-at-mid-south-debut\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/torbjorn-andre-roed-triumphs-at-mid-south-debut\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"torbjorn andre r\u00f8ed triumphs at mid south debut\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-racing\/torbjorn-andre-roed-triumphs-at-mid-south-debut\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"torbjorn andre r\u00f8ed triumphs at mid south debut\"}}\u0027>\n torbjorn andre r\u00f8ed triumphs at mid south debut\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"photo essay: milan-san remo from the lens of chris auld","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/photo-essay-milan-san-remo-from-the-lens-of-chris-auld\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/photo-essay-milan-san-remo-from-the-lens-of-chris-auld\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"photo essay: milan-san remo from the lens of chris auld\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/photo-essay-milan-san-remo-from-the-lens-of-chris-auld\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"photo essay: milan-san remo from the lens of chris auld\"}}\u0027>\n photo essay: milan-san remo from the lens of chris auld\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"crash-fest at \u2018mini-paris-roubaix\u2019 prompts reaction from cpa: \u2018was it a cyclocross race\u2019","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/crash-fest-at-mini-paris-roubaix-prompts-reaction-from-cpa-was-it-a-cyclocross-race\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/crash-fest-at-mini-paris-roubaix-prompts-reaction-from-cpa-was-it-a-cyclocross-race\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"crash-fest at \u2018mini-paris-roubaix\u2019 prompts reaction from cpa: \u2018was it a cyclocross race\u2019\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/crash-fest-at-mini-paris-roubaix-prompts-reaction-from-cpa-was-it-a-cyclocross-race\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"crash-fest at \u2018mini-paris-roubaix\u2019 prompts reaction from cpa: \u2018was it a cyclocross race\u2019\"}}\u0027>\n crash-fest at \u2018mini-paris-roubaix\u2019 prompts reaction from 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TREK ÉMONDA SLR 9 VS TREK MADONE SLR 9 GEN 7

The Trek Emonda and Madone are both high-performance road bikes from Trek, but they cater to different types of riders and riding styles. The Trek Emonda is designed primarily for climbing and is known for its lightweight and responsive frame, making it ideal for ascents and hilly terrain. On the other hand, the Trek Madone is built for speed and aerodynamics, suited for flat roads and sprinting, with features that reduce air resistance and increase efficiency at high speeds. While both bikes share Trek's commitment to quality and performance, their specialized designs distinguish them for particular cycling scenarios.

The Trek Emonda and the Trek Madone are each designed for specific types of cycling events:

Trek Emonda :

  • Climbing/Road Races : The Emonda's lightweight frame makes it ideal for events with significant elevation gains, such as hilly road races or mountain stages in stage races.
  • Hill Climbing Time Trials : Its light weight and stiffness also benefit riders in time trials that are uphill, where the gravity is the main opponent.
  • Gran Fondos and Sportives : For long-distance events that involve a lot of climbing, the Emonda's comfort over elevation changes is a plus.

Trek Madone :

  • Flat and Fast Road Races : The Madone is aerodynamically optimized, making it perfect for flat road races where speed is critical and wind resistance is a significant factor.
  • Criteriums : Its aerodynamic efficiency and integrated features are beneficial in the high-speed, short-course criterium races.
  • Time Trials and Triathlons : While not a pure time trial bike, the Madone's aerodynamic features can be advantageous in time trials and non-drafting triathlon events.

Both bikes could potentially cross over into each other's events; however, they excel in the conditions for which they were specifically designed. The Emonda is all about lightness and climbing, while the Madone is about aerodynamic efficiency and speed on flatter terrain.

trek emonda or madone

1. Price | Weight | Material

trek emonda or madone

2. Frame and Fork

3. drivetrain, 5. wheels and tyres, 6. cockpit and seat, 7. conclusion.

The Madone SLR 9 is 500 grams heavier than the Emonda SLR 9 - both bikes are equipped with the Shimano Dura Ace 12 speed groupset.

The Madone SLR 9 comes in £2,375.00 more expensive than the Emonda SLR 9, in the Viper Red colourway. To be fair the Madone clearly has more carbon bulk, and presumably 800 Series OCLV Carbon isn't cheap!

Using the BIKOTIC visual comparison app above you can see where the Madone is engineered very differently to the Emonda, albeit that both bikes have exactly the same geometry spec (size 56 in photos). Of note is that the Madone has a 0 offset seat post and the Emonda a 20mm offset seatpost. This changes the rider's position in relation to the bottom bracket, the Madone being more aggressive and over the BB. 

Though the Emonda does have some aero tubing shapes, notably up front, the Madone takes the aero shaping to another level - right up to the UCI limitations I would imagine. For example, the Emonda has stopped short of an aero seat post, opting for what is the least aero shape, a round seat post. This seems a bit odd when a lot of other brands do have aero posts on their all round race bikes - the likes of Specialized with the Tarmac SL8 and Cannondale with the SystemSix to name a few.

The Madone's headtube, forks, downtube, seat tube and stays all have very pronounced aero profiles - the massively oversized bottom bracket presumably not only offers a lot of stiffness, but aero advantages also.

It's hard to look at the Madone without being drawn to the very odd cut out design of the seat tube from the side view, and then look from any other angle you will see not only is it cut out from the side it splays out to form what can only be described as a hole! Trek calls this IsoFlow technology, and it "adds an aerodynamic advantage, cuts weight and smooths the road ahead". Looks kind of weird to me though.

trek emonda or madone

Both bikes feature integrated carbon bar stem combos - the Madone's bar-stem being somewhat more beefy from most angles, other than head on, but with the benefit of the brake hoses being fully internal and hidden. The Emonda has exposed hoses below the stem feeding into the front of the headset top cap. The cost of all this integration will come into stark focus when it's time to change or repair something...maybe!

The Emonda comes with the Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37 wheelset, RRP £2199.98, 1325 grams and are Tubeless Ready. The Madone comes with the Bontrager Aeolus RSL 51 wheelset, which cost the same, but are a smidge heavier at 1410 grams and are also Tubeless Ready.

The Emonda rolls on 25mm Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite Road Tyres, each at RRP £44.99 and weighing 210 grams. It's not listed on https://www.bicyclerollingresistance.com, but the Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite TLR 25 version comes in at 13.6 Watts. The Madone rolls on 25mm Bontrager R4 320 Handmade Clincher Road Tyres, each at RRP £69.99 and weighing 230 grams. This tyre has a rolling resistance of 11.5watts on https://www.bicyclerollingresistance.com. Both bikes are listed as being shod with 25mm, but in the comparison above you can see the Emonda's tyres are definitely wider and look more like 28's to me.

So, which to buy if you happen to have a really huge budget for your next bike? Personally, the weakest area of my riding and where I get consistently dropped, is on the hills, if I was planning to buy either of these bikes it would be the Emonda. That said, I would really like to take the Madone to a long flat sweeping strip of tarmac, preferably with a strong tail wind, and give it the beans - yeehaa! 

Trek Madone vs Emonda, the bikes of Ryder Hesjedal

Spoiled for choice? We take a detailed look at two race machines

This article originally appeared on BikeRadar

Pro bike: Ryder Hesjedal's Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi-Mod

Ryder Hesjedal's Tour de France Cannondale SuperSix EVO

Hesjedal looks forward to change with Trek Factory Racing, focuses on Giro d’Italia in 2016

Hesjedal, Reijnen to make Trek Factory Racing debut at Tour Down Under

Trek Madone voted best team bike in 2015 Cyclingnews Reader Poll

2016 WorldTour team bikes guide

Ryder Hesjedal's Trek Madone 9 Series - Gallery

Cancellara and Hesjedal model 2016 Trek-Segafredo kit - gallery

For the former winner of the Giro d'Italia , it's a choice between what's perhaps the fastest aero machine money can buy, or one of lightest production bikes going. However, when you're a Grand Tour winner, you can swap to the best option for the day. That's exactly what Ryder Hesjedal does with his new Trek Madone and Emonda team bikes.

2016 sees Canada's only GT winner return to the Wisconsin behemoth, Trek bikes, a brand he was associated with back in his mountain biking days (through Gary Fisher bicycles), and in his early days as a professional on the road.

During the Tour Down Under , BikeRadar got to briefly sit down with the relaxed and approachable Canadian, to try to gain a better understanding of his bike-swapping ways. These, according to Hesjedal, are a simple matter of best matching the bike to the course on the day. If there are climbs to be had, he'll – like most riders – want to be on the very lightest (6.8kg) bike possible. Where the road is flatter and faster, the weight is less an issue and he'll pick the aero bike.

It's something he used to do when he rode Cervélos with the Garmin team, with access to the 'R' and 'S' series bikes. For 2015, such a luxury was lost with his former Cannondale team having access to just one road bike – the SuperSix Evo HM.

Madone has all the tricks

For cheating the wind, the recently revised Madone 9 series H1 is commonly regarded as the finest complete aero road bike available, and was recently voted the ' best team bike of 2015' by Cyclingnews readers.

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To receive such praise, Trek didn't just design a fast frameset, but rather started ground-up and created a whole bike. Sure its wheels and drivetrain are standard items, but just about everything else has been designed with integration in mind.

Such an example is seen in the integrated centre-pull brake calipers, which are placed flush into the frame. At the front, the head tube features little spring-loaded 'doors' that open to provide space for the brake hardware as the bars are turned. Cables too are kept hidden within the frame, with only the smallest amount of wire visible from out the back of the seat tube.

Following a trend we're starting to see more of on the latest crop of superbikes, the Madone uses its own integrated handlebar and stem combination. Here, Hesjedal uses a rarely seen combination of a 140mm stem length and a narrow 40cm bar width in the one-piece carbon component.

While the aero details are near endless, another big part of the story is ride comfort. Here the new Madone borrows the 'IsoSpeed' technology from the cobble-eating Domane road bike. It's not possible to tell from the outside, but the Madone hides a secondary seat tube within the deep external aero mast. Here, the secondary tube flexes on a pivot point to provide vastly improved seated comfort.

It would be safe to assume that all this technology comes at a significant weight penalty. But you would be wrong. Trek claims a 56cm frame is just 950g – although that strangely seems heavy when you compare it to the claimed 690g of an equivalent Emonda frame.

Emonda for the hills

Notoriously picky in his setup, Hesjedal is one of the few riders who requests his bikes hit the UCI's 6.8kg minimum weight limit for races in the hills. Given that he rides a large 58cm frame, this is no small feat and so when the road points to the sky, his choice points to the super light Emonda.

First revealed in 2014, the Emonda was launched with claims of being the world's lightest product bike. While such a title is also fought over by the likes of Canyon and Merida, the Emonda is still unquestionably right up there.

Surprisingly the difference in weight between the two bikes isn't as extreme as you may think at just 500g. Hesjedal's Madone features deeper Aeolus 5 tubular wheels and a SRM power meter, while his Emonda – at the time of pictures and weight-in – has no power meter and shallower Aeolus 3 wheels. Regardless of how insignificant that number may seem, it's a noticeable amount for a rider of Hesjedal's calibre.

With so much talk of motor doping lately, it's hard to ignore the time Hesjedal came under the spotlight of such accusations during a crash at the 2014 Vuelta a España. With Hesjedal's preference for a bike that's just 500g lighter should shine light into how improbable the previous accusations were (in case the stationary cranks weren't enough proof…).

While he states it's not a factor on his bike choice, the Trek-Segafredo rider does state the ride quality of the Emonda is marginally smoother than that of the Madone.

Similarities and differences

The long-limbed Canadian uses a near identical position between both bikes, although the Madone is ever so slightly more stretched out with a marginally longer stem and lower drop handlebar.

Two obvious extremes on Hesjedal's bikes are the 180mm crank length and equalled saddle to handlebar drop. Such a number is certainly on the extreme side and Adam Hansen  (Lotto Soudal) is perhaps the only other rider in the pro peloton with such a number.

Compared with his 56cm Cannondale of the past season, Hesjedal is now riding more sensibly sized 58cm frames. This is purely due to Trek's production of 'H1' frames, where the head tube heights are designed to provide an aggressively low position (especially compared to the brand's more consumer-orientated H2 frames). This allows Hesjedal his radically low riding position without having to resort to downsizing in frames.

As already mentioned, when we looked over Hesdejal's Emonda, it lacked an SRM power meter in order to hit the 6.8kg weight limit. It's the same story as when we looked at his Cannondale SuperSix Hi-Mod of 2015. However, we've since seen race photos of Hesjedal on his Emonda with a SRM, which would likely put it closer to 6.95kg.

In a shift from last year's Cannondale, Hesjedal has switched from his previous weight conscious choice of mechanical gearing to Dura-Ace Di2. We suspect such a change wasn't forced upon him as his new teammate – Fabian Cancellara – notoriously prefers the feel and control of the mechanical group.

Making use of the Di2, Hesjedal is using a SW-R600 Climbing Shifter for rear shifting control when on the handlebar tops. Proving the specialisation of the two bikes, such an addition only features on his climbing-focused Emonda.

There's a new perch for the Canadian, with the Trek-Segafredo team using Bontrager items exclusively. With this, Hesjedal is on a softly padded 'Team Issue' saddle, an older model you likely won't find at your local Trek shop.

Rubber wise, Hesjedal has moved from Mavic to VeloFlex tubulars. Such a change doesn't actually mean much though, given the Mavic tubulars used by the Cannondale Pro Cycling team are actually relabelled VeloFlex items – so we suspect Hesjedal feels right at home. 

Complete bike specifications – Madone Frame: Trek Madone ‘Race Shop Limited’ H1, 58cm Fork: Trek Madone Headset: Madone integrated, 1-3/8" top, 1.5" bottom Stem: Madone XXX Integrated Bar/Stem, 140mm x -17 degrees Handlebar: Madone XXX Integrated, Anatomic bend, 40cm (c-c) Tape: Bontrager Cork Front brake: Trek Madone integrated Rear brake: Trek Madone integrated Brake levers: Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 STI Dual Control ST-9070 Front derailleur: Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 FD-9070 Rear derailleur: Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 RD-9070 Shift levers: Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 STI Dual Control ST-9070 Cassette: Shimano Dura-Ace CS-9000, 11-28T Chain: Shimano Dura-Ace CN-9000 Crankset: SRM Shimano 11-speed, 180mm, 53/39T Bottom bracket: Trek BB90, steel bearing Pedals: Shimano 9000 Dura-Ace Wheelset: Bontrager Aeolus 5 DR3 tubular Front tyre: Veloflex Criterium, 23mm Rear tyre: Veloflex Criterium, 23mm Saddle: Bontrager ‘Team Issue’, soft padding Seatpost: Bontrager long, 25mm set-back Bottle cages: Bontrager XXX Cage (2) Computer: SRM Power Control 8, Bontrager DuoTrap ANT+ speed sensor

Complete bike specifications – Emonda Frame: Trek Emonda Project One H1, 58cm Fork: Trek Emonda Headset: CaneCreek integrated, tapered Stem: Bontrager XXX, 130mm x -17 degrees Handlebar: Bontrager Race Lite, Shallow bend, 42cm (c-c) Tape: Bontrager Cork Front brake: Shimano Dura-Ace BR-9000 Rear brake: Shimano Dura-Ace BR-9000 Brake levers: Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 STI Dual Control ST-9070 Front derailleur: Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 FD-9070 Rear derailleur: Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 RD-9070 Shift levers: Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 STI Dual Control ST-9070, plus Di2 SW-R600 Climbing Shifter Cassette: Shimano Dura-Ace CS-9000, 11-28T Chain: Shimano Dura-Ace CN-9000 Crankset: Shimano Dura-Ace 9000, 180mm, 53/39T Bottom bracket: Trek BB90, steel bearing Pedals: Shimano 9000 Dura-Ace Wheelset: Bontrager Aeolus 3 DR3 tubular Front tyre: Veloflex Criterium, 23mm Rear tyre: Veloflex Criterium, 23mm Saddle: Bontrager ‘Team Issue’, soft padding Seatpost: Bontrager long, 25mm set-back Bottle cages: Bontrager XXX Cage (2) Computer: SRM Power Control 8, Bontrager DuoTrap ANT+ speed sensor

Critical measurements Ryder's height: 1.87m (6ft 2in) Ryder's weight: 73kg (161lb) Saddle height from BB, c-t: 834mm Saddle setback: 96mm Seat tube length (c-t): 553mm (both Madone and Emonda) Tip of saddle to middle of bar: 647mm Saddle-to-bar drop: 180mm Head tube length: 160mm (both Madone and Emonda) Top tube length (effective): 573mm (both Madone and Emonda) Total bicycle weight: Emonda - 6.83kg (15.06lb). Madone – 7.34kg (16.18lb), both without SRM PC8 head unit 

trek emonda or madone

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Madone, Domane, Emonda… Daemon? Meet the 4th anagram bike that Trek has yet to make

The Daemon is the bike that Trek HAS to make next

Daniel Gunnarsson

Matthew Loveridge

Trek is known for its anagrammatic bike names, having followed up the original Madone with the endurance Domane and the lightweight Emonda. We’ve run with the concept to imagine where it might lead next.

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The Trek Madone was first launched in 2003 and is named after the Col de la Madone, the famous climb in the south of France that a certain Lance Armstrong used to test his Tour de France form. That seems perfectly reasonable.

When Trek launched its Domane endurance bike in 2012 , keen-eyed observers noticed that the name was an anagram of the pre-existing model. The bike maker claimed, among other things, that Domane means “king’s crown” in Latin, a somewhat dubious assertion that I’m unable to verify.

Trek's new Domane ups the Paris-Roubaix tech ante further still with a clever pinned joint at the seat cluster that allows for a remarkable amount of seat tube flex

Then Trek did it again, launching the lightweight Emonda in 2014 , this time not pretending that the name was anything other than a made-up word.

Here we are in 2019, and the only remaining anagram that looks remotely viable to us is “Daemon”.

We commissioned industrial designer Daniel Gunnarsson ( @localbikechop ), who has previously shown us his vision of the bikes of the future , to imagine what the Daemon might look like based on current trends, and this is what happened.

Editor’s note: At the time of writing, the Trek Daemon does not exist. The design here was created as a collaboration between BikeRadar and Daniel Gunnarsson only. Trek was not involved and does not endorse this project in any way.

Meet the Trek Daemon, an aero gravel monster

Render of concept aero gravel frame

The Daemon is a mashup of all the major trends in current drop-bar bike design and it draws heavily on Trek’s existing range.

Its frame strongly resembles that of the aero Madone, but Gunnarsson has tweaked the geometry to create clearances big enough to take 700 × 47mm or 650b × 50mm tyres (or 700 × 40mm with mudguards) by slightly lengthening the rear end and increasing the axle-to-crown measurement of the fork.

The frame is beefy to match the beefy tyres, and the Madone’s distinctive transition from fork crown to down tube now cuts right across the latter, adding a distinctive visual element.

By dropping the driveside chainstay, Gunnarsson has managed to make the rear-end almost as short as that of the Madone, despite the huge tyres.

IsoSpeed seat tube decoupler on concept bike render

The concept bike is meant to be an all-road machine and so it uses Trek’s IsoSpeed comfort tech at both ends, just like the current Domane .

To create a riding position suited to gravel without compromising on aesthetics, the Daemon features a fully integrated cockpit with a riser drop bar reminiscent of those offered by Specialized on bikes such as the original Venge ViAS , albeit with flared drops as found on many existing gravel bikes.

Render of integrated gravel riser bar concept

The drivetrain is 1×12 with the option to fit a front derailleur and — it almost goes without saying — the Daemon has disc brakes.

The Daemon is somewhat more practical than your typical aero bike, with mounts for cages, mudguards and other accessories peppering the frame and fork.

There’s also built-in storage, both in the down tube beneath the bottle bosses and immediately behind the stem.

Would you ride a Trek Daemon? Let us know in the comments how you’d design your fantasy bike and whether you think our version will be launching any time soon.

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trek emonda or madone

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The ultimate featherweight Émonda is the lightest road bike in our lineup and the first up every climb. We scrutinized every inch of this legendary race bike to offer ultimate ride quality and balanced handling without compromising weight. Complete with fast and light aerodynamic tube shaping, Émonda helps riders go faster than ever on flats and climbs alike.

Our fastest Émonda, by the numbers The newest Émonda SLR is faster than its predecessor (and its competition) on almost any climb. And the steeper the grade, the bigger the benefit. Here’s how it stacks up to the previous Émonda SLR:

60 seconds per hour faster on flats

18 seconds per hour faster at 8% grade, 182 grams of drag saved.

Trek’s fastest climbing bike The newest generation Émonda SLR frame still weighs less than 700g, but all-new aero tube shaping adds even more speed.

Our best carbon yet

It takes more material to make aero shapes, but we refused to compromise on weight — so we developed all-new 800 Series OCLV Carbon for Émonda SLR.

Speedy design details

The latest Émonda models have hidden cable routing, most come with aero wheels, and Émonda SLR comes with an aerodynamic Aeolus RSL bar/stem.

Incredible performance, unbeatable price Émonda SL delivers the same legendary performance and aerodynamic tube shaping as Émonda SLR, but it’s built with 500 Series OCLV Carbon that’s still lightweight without weighing heavy on your wallet.

Explore the Émonda family

Enjoy balanced ride quality, superior handling, and the added benefit of free speed thanks to new aero tube shaping wrought from our ultralight 500 Series OCLV Carbon.

Our lightest and fastest Émonda, this bike delivers incredible ride quality and aerodynamic advantage. Its frame is made of all-new 800 Series OCLV Carbon and weighs less than 700 grams.

Our lightest aluminum road bike handles like its pricier carbon cousins, with a strikingly light and aerodynamic aluminum frame that’s fast, fun, and affordable.

日本最大級のスポーツサイクル専門店!九州1号店!

Y'sRoad

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日本最大級のスポーツサイクル専門店 Y'sRoad

九州地区最大級!ロードバイクを中心に約300台の完成車品揃え!

trek emonda or madone

バイオレーサーで最適なフレームサイズをご提案!

trek emonda or madone

九州唯一のBIANCHI直営店ビアンキバイクストアを店内に併設!

trek emonda or madone

カスタムやメンテナンス用品、アパレルなどもお任せください!

ワイズロードポータル(スマホ最適化)

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2024/03/19 18:28

【TREK】ニュースタンダード12速105仕様EMONDA SL5入荷しています! by: 嘉悦 賢

IMG_8028

初めてのカーボンロードでオールラウンドに乗れる1台をお探しの方!

TREKの超人気車種EMONDA SL5入荷していますよ!

是非店頭でご確認ください!

IMG_8021

TREK / EMONDA SL 5 ¥399,190-(税込)

トレンドを抑えたTREKらしいコンパクトエアロロード

SL6はOCLVカーボン500グレードを採用。

船首のようなヘッドチューブはボリュームは抑えてあり、MADONEやTTバイクのSPEED CONCEPTに採用されているKVF形状のダウンチューブもややコンパクトな造り。

フロントフォークやシートステー等フレーム全体にKVF形状を採用しておりますが、適度に丸みも帯びており、前方からの風の抵抗を減らすためだけでなく、横からの風に対しても低い空気抵抗を実現しているようです。

全体的にボリュームを抑えたコンパクトなエアロロードといった印象ですが、最近のトレンドであるコンパクトなリア3角を採用し、TREKらしいスローピング形状が特徴的ですね。

IMG_8022

ディスクブレーキ仕様×12スピード105

普段のサイクリングやロングライド、競技等どんな用途にも対応する1台です。

コンポーネントはシマノの105油圧ディスク仕様を採用。

機械式12速仕様で必要十分な性能です。

IMG_8024

サイズは52(適応身長165~172cm前後)が1台入荷しています。

他カラーのホワイトもカッコよく、支店やメーカーの在庫次第で取り寄せ可能です。

ぜひお問い合わせください!!!

前の記事へ

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IMAGES

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COMMENTS

  1. Trek Road Bikes Guide: Domane vs. Émonda vs. Madone

    Trek Émonda: Lightweight Yet Aero Racing Bike Trek Émonda. Émonda is a lightweight road bike designed for racing. It has more performance geometry than Domane.. It's not as aero as Madone, but more aero than Domane. It's also lighter, making it ideal for climbing and riders who want an agile bike.. Since the 2021 redesign, it can be classified as a hybrid road bike (lightweight yet aero ...

  2. Trek Emonda, Madone, and Domane: Which Road Bike is Right for You

    The short answer. - The Emonda is a lightweight race bike for cyclists who like to go fast and ride aggressively. The lightness of Emonda is perfect for climbing because lighter bikes require less effort to get your bike up hills. - The Madone is a bit heavier than the Emonda but has an aerodynamic design that makes this bike great for flat ...

  3. Madone vs Emonda: A Comprehensive Comparison

    Deciding Between Trek Road Bikes: An In-Depth Comparison. In a nutshell: The Emonda: A feather-light racing bike tailored for those who crave speed and an aggressive riding style. Its lightweight nature makes it a prime choice for uphill climbs, requiring less effort to conquer hills; The Madone: Slightly heavier than the Emonda, the Madone ...

  4. 2023 Trek Emonda vs Madone vs Domane

    Updated: November 22, 2023. Trek bike names are easy to understand. There are three distinct models; Emonda, Madone, and Domane. Each model is designed to perform well in a particular type of ride. The general rule of thumb below will give you a clear idea of what the bike is about, where it sits in the lineup, and how it's specced.

  5. Trek Émonda Review

    For the 99 percenters, there's the Émonda SL (models start at $2,699). The SL uses OCLV 500 composite, and the frame is quite a bit heavier than the SLR's. The SL's frame comes in at 1,142 ...

  6. Compare: 2024 Trek Émonda SL 7 vs Madone SL 7 Gen 7

    The Trek Émonda SL 7 and Trek Madone SL 7 Gen 7 are both carbon frame road bikes with high-end components and hydraulic disc brakes. Similar Bikes. Accessories. Ride Feel. Based on frame geometry and build specs. Rider Position. relaxed aggressive. Terrain. smooth rugged. Émonda SL 7.

  7. Which Trek Road Bike Should I Get? Madone, Emonda or Domane?

    The Madone is Trek's most aerodynamic road bike. It's built for serious racers and riders who want the ultimate in speed and performance on the flat and more rolling routes. Madone is great for time trials, circuit and road racing or just going out for a blast on your favourite road. The new generation Madone made waves when it was unveiled ...

  8. Trek bikes range: which model is right for you?

    Bike reviews,Domane,Emonda,Madone: Price points: Bikes under £500,under £1000,under £1500,under £2000: Road bike styles: ... Modern Trek Madone's feature a high level of integration, with the ...

  9. Trek Madone, Emonda, Domane

    In this blog we're going to take a quick look at the three main offerings they have for road cycling; the Madone, Domane, and Emonda. Madone. The Trek Madone is their aero-oriented bike where speed is the number one priority. With huge aerodynamically forged carbon tubes it cuts through the air like a hot knife through butter.

  10. Madone Vs Emonda: Choose Your Weapon Wisely...

    Good day everyone. Today's episode of "Bicycle Showcase" compares the 2022 Trek Madone against the 2022 Trek Emonda. While the Trek Madone is considered an e...

  11. Trek Emonda SL6 Pro review

    The new Emonda features a completely new set of tube shapes, most of which have gone down the aero route. But Trek is at pains to keep the comparisons to the Madone aero race bike to a minimum ...

  12. Trek Domane vs Emonda vs Madone!! What's The Difference??

    Trek Website: https://bit.ly/3OGJp4eWelcome to my first Trek road bike comparison!! This video describes all the main differences among the 2022 Trek Domane,...

  13. Trek Emonda SLR 9 eTap Long-Term Review: Light for ...

    The current equivalent Madone has a claimed weight of over 1.3 pounds heavier than the Emonda SLR 9 eTap. I used the Trek Emonda SLR 9 eTap as a long-term review bike, putting it on the roads for ...

  14. Trek Émonda Bikes Compared: Which One to Choose?

    Trek Émonda frame weighs 760g in size 56. The highest-end Émonda even weighs below the UCI 6.8 kg limit. However, low weight is not everything. Stiffness and aerodynamics are also important. Trek claims Émonda frames are also relatively stiff and aero (of course, less aero than Madone). They are 18 seconds per hour faster at 8% gradients.

  15. 2021 Trek Emonda review: the semi-aero, 'faster everywhere ...

    First introduced in 2014, the Emonda has always been Trek's premier climbing bike, with a keen focus on low weight and high stiffness.However, we now have a much better understanding of the role aerodynamics play when it comes to going fast — even when climbing — and, as expected, the brand-new Emonda SLR and Emonda SL bikes have undergone an aero makeover.

  16. Test riding the new Trek Émonda

    The SLR Frame alone tips the scales at 690g; 20g lighter than the Cannondale Super Six Evo and 187g lighter than the Specialized SL4 (the new Tarmac is heavier still). The SLR fork weighs 280g and it's a new slender-looking fork compared to those seen on the Domane and Madone. The Trek Emonda, as seen in action at the Dauphine recently.

  17. Trek Domane Vs Emonda Vs Madone

    If you are looking to get a Trek road bike but not sure which one, then this video is for you! In this video we compare the 2022/2023 Trek Domane, Trek Emond...

  18. Trek Émonda Slr 9 Vs Trek Madone Slr 9 Gen 7

    The Trek Emonda and Madone are both high-performance road bikes from Trek, but they cater to different types of riders and riding styles. The Trek Emonda is designed primarily for climbing and is known for its lightweight and responsive frame, making it ideal for ascents and hilly terrain. On the other hand, the Trek Madone is built for speed and aerodynamics, suited for flat roads and ...

  19. Madone race-ready aerodynamic road bikes

    Madone Gen 7. Built on a legacy of superbikes, Madone Gen 7 is our fastest and lightest Madone disc ever. -Lightweight, never-before-seen IsoFlow compliance tech. -Flared aero-optimized bar (one-piece bar/stem on SLR, two-piece bar + stem on SL) -All-new ultra-fast aero tube shaping. -Faster and lighter. Shop Madone SLR Gen 7.

  20. Trek Madone vs Emonda, the bikes of Ryder Hesjedal

    Hesjedal's Madone features deeper Aeolus 5 tubular wheels and a SRM power meter, while his Emonda - at the time of pictures and weight-in - has no power meter and shallower Aeolus 3 wheels ...

  21. Madone, Domane, Emonda… Daemon? Meet the 4th anagram bike that Trek has

    Madone, Domane, Emonda…. Daemon? Meet the 4th anagram bike that Trek has yet to make - BikeRadar. Trek is known for its anagrammatic bike names so we've run with the idea to imagine a futuristic ...

  22. Émonda, our lightest road bike

    The ultimate featherweight. Émonda is the lightest road bike in our lineup and the first up every climb. We scrutinized every inch of this legendary race bike to offer ultimate ride quality and balanced handling without compromising weight. Complete with fast and light aerodynamic tube shaping, Émonda helps riders go faster than ever on flats ...

  23. EMONDA OR MADONE? : r/TrekBikes

    Surprisingly enough the Madone is probably far more comfortable than the Emonda thanks to isospeed. The one big factor you're missing is price, the Emonda is far cheaper and better purchase price wise. To be honest though Trek overall is pretty pricey. 3. Pants-Salamander-349.

  24. 【TREK】ニュースタンダード12速105仕様EMONDA SL5入荷しています!

    trek / emonda sl 5 ¥399,190-(税込) トレンドを抑えたtrekらしいコンパクトエアロロード sl6はoclvカーボン500グレードを採用。 船首のようなヘッドチューブはボリュームは抑えてあり、MADONEやTTバイクのSPEED CONCEPTに採用されているKVF形状のダウンチューブもやや ...