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Trek 1.2 road bike

The 1.2 is the middle of Trek's three 1 Series aluminium road bikes, sitting between the Shimano Claris-equipped 1.1 (£575) and the 1.5 (£750), which comes with Shimano Tiagra components.

Is it the right bike for you? We've picked out four reasons why it might be, along with a reason that might make you think twice.

1 It provides solid performance with few surprises

The 1.2 puts in a solid performance out on the road, offering a stable, predictable ride, the only real disappointment being the lack of braking power (see below).

velo trek 1.2

Hitting the scales at 9.48kg (20.9lb), the 1.2 isn't as lively as many lighter bikes, but for £650 this is certainly a decent enough weight. Compared to bikes of a similar price, it accelerates well. You'll find a little more flex in the frame and fork than in higher level models in Trek's range, but this is a bike that's well capable of holding its own when you crank up the power.

You could't say that the 1.2 is the fastest climber but it's far from sluggish when things get lumpy. It's helped in its hill-climbing endeavours by a compact chainset (with 50-tooth and 34-tooth chainrings rather than 52 or 53 and 39). Most bikes of this price come with something similar these days. Matched up to an 11-28-tooth cassette, it'll allow you to get up the vast majority of gradients without your knees popping or your lungs bursting, while still providing enough big gears to keep you bowling along quickly on the flat and downhill.

velo trek 1.2

Aluminium frames have a reputation for feeling harsh but that's a gross generalisation. Some are jarring – as some carbon frames are – but plenty aren't. This bike is certainly comfortable enough for racking up the big miles.

For a start, it comes in Trek's H2 fit. That requires a brief explanation. Compared to Trek's H1 fit, H2 has a taller head tube: 3cm taller in the case of our 58cm test model. Why? It puts you into a more upright riding position with less strain on your lower back and neck. You could achieve a similar position by adding a bunch of headset spacers on an H1 bike, but if you want your bars at that height, you're better off going for an H2 fit because the front end will be stiffer and the handling will be better.

velo trek 1.2

The Bontrager Race VR-C alloy handlebar has a shallower drop than usual too: 124mm rather than the 145mm you get on Bontrager's Race Lite Classic, for example. That means it's that much easier to get down on the drops. A lot of people have a bar with a deep drop and rarely take their hands off the hoods.

The other reason for the comfort is that the 1.2 is inherently pretty smooth. Sure, there are plenty of bikes out there that will filter our more road vibration but this one does a decent enough job on that front. Swapping the 23mm tyres for 25s would add more comfort but this bike isn't crying out for them by any means.

velo trek 1.2

The Bontrager Gel Cork bar tape provides good cushioning for your hands and the Bontrager Affinity 1 saddle has plenty of padding too. Truth be told, I found it a little too soft, verging on squidgy, but everyone has their own taste when it comes to saddles.

2 You get a neat, well-proven frame and fork

All three bikes in the 1 Series share the same 100 Series Alpha Aluminium frame. It's fairly busy looking with a squared off upper edge to the down tube that makes it resemble that of Trek's more costly Madone.

The top tube slopes towards the seat tube junction and tapers down as it does so, and slim seatstays provide compliance at the back.

velo trek 1.2

You get mounts for a mudguard and a rack back there too. They'll be useful if you want to ride the bike year round and perhaps carry stuff to and from work on a daily commute.

You don't get the oversized bottom bracket or tapered head tube that are regular features designed to add stiffness to higher-end performance bikes, but this is a £650 bike and the frame is good for the money. The welds are pretty tidy throughout and the same can be said of the paint job.

velo trek 1.2

The fork is Trek's own with carbon blades and an alloy steerer. Like the frame, it comes with eyelets for fitting mudguards that will save a lot of faffing.

It's worth noting that the Trek 1.2 is available in eight sizes from 47cm up to 62cm. That range will cover nearly everyone.

3 Shimano's Sora shifters and mechs are excellent for the money

Nine-speed Sora is Shimano's fifth tier road groupset (if you don't count the electronic variants) and it offers fantastic value for money.

velo trek 1.2

Back in the olden days (before last year), you changed gear on Sora by pushing the brake lever to the side or by using a small thumb lever on the side of the shifter body, depending on the direction you wanted to shift.

Now, though, Sora levers are Dual Control, so instead of that thumb lever, there's a lever tucked behind the brake lever. It's the same design that Shimano use right up to top-level Dura-Ace and it's a big improvement, making it far easier to change gear from the drops.

velo trek 1.2

Resting your hands on the hoods is comfortable and there's a little gear indicator on the top of each of the levers that you might find useful. I can't say I ever checked them – I just couldn't get into the habit – but they're there if you want to.

Whereas the gear cables run underneath the bar tape on Shimano's higher level groupsets, they head out from the side of the levers with Sora and loop around to the frame in the fresh air. That's certainly not a problem from a functional point of view, although visually it's a less tidy way of doing things. That's being picky, though. Sora shifting has taken a massive leap forward with this latest design. It works very much like the highest level offerings from Shimano, just adding a little weight. Even there, the difference isn't massive.

velo trek 1.2

Trek don't give you a complete Sora groupset here, just the shifters and mechs. The chainset is FSA Vero, a square taper design that does its job just fine, and the brakes, as mentioned, are unbranded.

Most other big brand bikes at this price, such as the Giant Defy 3 (£649) and the Felt F95 (£649), have Shimano Sora components too. It's worth comparing the spec sheets to see exactly how they match up, but don't buy a bike solely on that basis.

4 Bontrager's wheels and other components are good, reliable kit

The wheels are made up from Bontrager's own alloy hubs, containing cup and cone (rather than cartridge) bearings, and Tubeless Ready http://www.bontrager.com/technology/why_tubeless_ready rims. That means you can run the wheels without inner tubes at some point in the future, although you'll need to upgrade to Tubeless Ready tyres first.

velo trek 1.2

The tyres that come fitted as standard are Bontrager's T1s (700 x 23). They're some pretty hefty rubber, made for durability rather than all-out speed, but they're reasonably resistant to punctures and they hold the road well even in damp conditions.

I had no problems at all with the wheels during the month-long test period. They're not the lightest wheels ever, taking some coaxing up to speed, but they're still as round and as true as they were out of the box, and there's a lot to be said for trouble-free operation. Fast wheels aren't so fast when you're standing on the side of the road trying to remove a broken spoke.

velo trek 1.2

Most of the rest of the kit is no-nonsense stuff from Bontrager too, the handlebar, stem and seatpost being reliable alloy options and the Affinity 1 saddle providing at least as much cushioning as most people will want.

And the compromises

There are no two ways about it, the 1.2's brakes are disappointing. Trek have put the Shimano Sora theme to one side here and specced nameless dual pivot callipers that lack bite. Don't get me wrong, they're consistent and they'll stop you, just not as quickly as you might like. You have to engage the brakes for a bit longer than normal or pull the levers a bit harder to get down to your desired speed.

velo trek 1.2

You adjust to this within a ride or two and don't really think about it until you ride with people who have better brakes on their bikes, or jump back on to a bike with better brakes yourself. Then you're struck by the contrast.

Swapping the brake pads helps, but the bottom line is that these brakes are a compromise to make a price point and, for me, they're the weakest aspect of the entire bike.

Other compromises? There's nothing that really stands out. Trek offer a decent all-round package here.

The Trek 1.2 is a very good bike for the money. The frame and fork are sound, reliable options and the Sora shifters and mechs are better than anything previously available for this kind of cash. They're a great example of the benefits of trickle down technology.

velo trek 1.2

Yes, if you pay a couple of hundred pounds more you'll get a lighter bike that leaps into life more eagerly when you up the intensity for a sprint or tough climb, but that's always the way. As it is, the Trek 1.2 is a very able road bike that'll reward your efforts with decent speed, and it's comfortable enough to ride all day long. The fact that it comes with mudguard and rack eyelets increases its versatility, so you can use it as a year-round workhorse if that's what you're after.

We'd have no hesitation recommending this bike for someone after their first proper road bike, or for anyone else looking for plenty of value.

Very good value, ideal for anyone looking for a first real road bike, with just the brakes as a low point

If you're thinking of buying this product using a cashback deal why not use the road.cc Top Cashback page and get some top cashback while helping to support your favourite independent cycling website

road.cc test report

Make and model: Trek 1.2

Size tested: 58

About the bike

State the frame and fork material and method of construction. List the components used to build up the bike.

Frame 100 Series Alpha Aluminium

Fork Trek carbon road

Sizes 47, 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62cm

Front hub Bontrager alloy

Rear hub Bontrager alloy

Rims Bontrager Tubeless Ready

Tyres Bontrager T1, 700x23c

Shifters Shimano Sora, 9 speed

Front derailleur Shimano Sora

Rear derailleur Shimano Sora

Crank FSA Vero, 50/39/30 (triple)

Cassette SRAM PG-950, 11-28, 9 speed

Pedals Nylon body w/alloy cage, toe-clip/strap

Chain KMC X9

Bontrager Affinity 1

Seatpost Bontrager Alloy, 2-bolt head, 27.2mm, 8mm offset

Handlebar Bontrager Race, VR-C, 31.8mm

Stem Bontrager Elite Blendr, w/computer & light mounts, 31.8mm, 7 degree

Headset 1-1/8" semi-cartridge bearings

Brakeset Alloy dual-pivot

Accessories

Bar tape Bontrager gel cork tape

Tell us what the bike is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about the bike?

Trek say: "1 Series aluminium road bikes feature the same aero shaping and race-ready detail as our top-end bikes. They're strong, light, and built to fly over the pavement," [Trek, being from the US, use "pavement" to mean the surface of a road rather than a path].

Frame and fork

Tell us about the build quality and finish of the frame and fork?

It's a tried and tested frame built to a high quality. The same goes for the carbon leg/alloy steerer fork.

Tell us about the materials used in the frame and fork?

The frame is made from aluminium: what Trek call 100 Series Alpha Aluminium.

Tell us about the geometry of the frame and fork?

The 1.2 is built to Trek's H2 geometry that I've explained in the body of the review. Essentially, it's slightly more relaxed than a full-on aggressive race position, but it's still speed orientated.

How was the bike in terms of height and reach? How did it compare to other bikes of the same stated size?

It's a little taller at the front end than a traditional low and stretched road bike.

Riding the bike

Was the bike comfortable to ride? Tell us how you felt about the ride quality.

I found it comfortable both in terms of ride position and ride quality. It's certainly a long way from being a bone shaker.

Did the bike feel stiff in the right places? Did any part of the bike feel too stiff or too flexible?

It's not mega-stiff but it's not too flexy either.

Which components had the most effect (good or bad) on the bike's comfort? would you recommend any changes?

I found the saddle a touch too squidgy for my taste, but I'd rather that than too firm.

In all of these marks, I'm comparing the bike to similarly priced alternatives.

The drivetrain

Wheels and tyres, your summary.

Did you enjoy riding the bike? Yes.

Would you consider buying the bike? It would certainly be on my shortlist if I was after a bike at about this price.

Would you recommend the bike to a friend? I'd recommend it should be on their shortlist too.

Anything further to say about the bike in conclusion?

Nearly all big brand bikes at this price have these features: aluminium frame, fork with carbon legs and alloy steerer, an incomplete Shimano Sora groupset (chainset and brakes being the most frequent omissions), in-house aluminium handlebar, stem and seatpost. If you simply compare spec lists, you'll see that the 1.2 comes out better than some and not quite as well as others.

However, we'd caution against making a decision based solely on a comparison of spec sheets. We've not reviewed all of the 1.2's chief rivals, but we can tell you that this bike will provide you with a very good all-round performance, the brakes being the only real low point.

Overall rating: 8 /10

About the tester

Age: 43   Height: 190cm   Weight: 75kg

I usually ride:    My best bike is:

I've been riding for: Over 20 years   I ride: Most days   I would class myself as: Expert

I regularly do the following types of riding: commuting, club rides, sportives, general fitness riding,

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velo trek 1.2

Mat has been in cycling media since 1996, on titles including BikeRadar, Total Bike, Total Mountain Bike, What Mountain Bike and Mountain Biking UK, and he has been editor of 220 Triathlon and Cycling Plus. Mat has been road.cc technical editor for over a decade, testing bikes, fettling the latest kit, and trying out the most up-to-the-minute clothing. We send him off around the world to get all the news from launches and shows too. He has won his category in Ironman UK 70.3 and finished on the podium in both marathons he has run. Mat is a Cambridge graduate who did a post-grad in magazine journalism, and he is a winner of the Cycling Media Award for Specialist Online Writer. Now over 50, he's riding road and gravel bikes most days for fun and fitness rather than training for competitions.

Add new comment

13 comments.

Avatar

I'm riding this bike now for over 6 years. Inexpensive when bought for  €600. Needed maintenance about 2 years ago which was about €400 (new wheelset, cassette/chain/cabling etc). I've replaced the 700x23-tyres by 700x25-tyres a long time ago without changing anything else. Works like a charm.

Great value for the money but brakes could indeed be better. Meanwhile looking to add a new bike (and use this one solely on the Tacx) with disc-brakes.

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The current Trek 1 Series bikes have plenty of clearance for fixed mudguards, even with a 25mm tyre. The 2013 1.2 had little clearance, and this was because Trek used the 2 series frame for that particular year. I'm guessing evo_playa has one of these. Agree that SKS Raceblade Long guards are great. The lack of availability is due to a redesign - SKS are developing the new version to allow for bikes with disc brakes. I gather they won't be available until this autumn at the earliest. UK distributors sold out of the old versions months ago.

Seems like a comparable spec and set up to other value bikes. Agree that even low spec bikes are good and has recently made me question my prior choice of 105 or nothing. Anyone know if Claris is any good ? Always found the Trek styling a bit bland but this one looks ok. The latest B twin road bikes seem anazing value if your in the market for a new bike. www.tinpony.co.uk/shop

Tin Pony wrote: Seems like a comparable spec and set up to other value bikes. Agree that even low spec bikes are good and has recently made me question my prior choice of 105 or nothing. Anyone know if Claris is any good ? Always found the Trek styling a bit bland but this one looks ok. The latest B twin road bikes seem anazing value if your in the market for a new bike. www.tinpony.co.uk/shop

The 8 speed Sora front and rear Derailleurs on my Trek are long since worn out and were replaced with Claris just before the winter kicked in. It works really smooth with no problems - even on the old Sora shifters with thumb button.

I've had the 2011 1.1 with shimano 2300 (remember that?) for just over 4 years now, and it certainly scrubs up well. Even with just 2300 and a different wheelset I've raced on it for a couple of years to some success, it certainly doesn't feel like it holds me back, which is very impressive for such a cheap machine. In fact, I like it enough to complete the change to 5700 groupset in the spring.

I can't say I ever had a problem with the brake calipers, and I can't tell the difference between the alloy calipers and the Shimano long drop calipers having swapped them out- they are certainly good enough.

However, I'm not a fan of the H2 fit with the massive head tube- I hate long head tubes and was lucky to get mine before they were introduced.

Excellent winter trainer and commuter. My 2007 Trek 1.2 is still going strong - it's had a few minor changes but still has the Sora 8 speed with thumb button - oh and a pannier rack!

It's still a lovely bike to ride and recommended first road bike.

Not a racing bike. Sit up and beg.

WHY wouldn't they put sensible 25mm tyres on the bike?

Mike T. wrote: WHY wouldn't they put sensible 25mm tyres on the bike?

Quite. I can't really understand why they'd have clearances so tight, seems unecessary. It may be that 25mm tyres would work with some mudguards already mentioned, but probably not full guards that also help keep crud off the chainset especially in winter.

Word of warning though, if it is like my Trek 1.2 with the carbon fork you will be lucky to get a fixed mudguard that fits even though the bike has mudguard eyelets.

Clearance on the front is not good and i had to end up using Crud mudguards for the front wheel.

Avatar

craigr wrote: Word of warning though, if it is like my Trek 1.2 with the carbon fork you will be lucky to get a fixed mudguard that fits even though the bike has mudguard eyelets. Clearance on the front is not good and i had to end up using Crud mudguards for the front wheel.

As ever, SKS Raceblade Longs. Sorted.

KiwiMike wrote: craigr wrote: Word of warning though, if it is like my Trek 1.2 with the carbon fork you will be lucky to get a fixed mudguard that fits even though the bike has mudguard eyelets. Clearance on the front is not good and i had to end up using Crud mudguards for the front wheel.

Tried quite a few including SKS chromeplastic ones.

edit: tracked them down, looks like instock here : http://www.tredz.co.uk/.SKS-Race-Blade-Long-Mudguard-Set_51833.htm

Fairly simple and inexpensive to swap out the substandard brake calipers.

I upgraded my Trek 1.1 to Shimano non series long drop brake calipers and the difference in braking was amazing.

Latest Comments

Trek has gone way overboard with how many different models they sell, they have at least 60 different bikes, and that doesn't include children's...

Never. Believe. Management. Certainly not when things are going wrong, but not in the good times either.

Saw the head badges for sale on EBay - blimey, if only they knew! https://www.aushopboys.com.au/product-page/london-taxi-crb26l

"An unforeseen and unplanned event or circumstance" If a crash isn't unplanned and unforeseen, then it's deliberate.

Driverless Car crashes into house - a round-up ...

'"Cyclist.  He was supposed to stay single file in his lane,” wrote Robert.'...

Yes, there are events there, although not so much racing.  https://www.wigan.gov.uk/BeWell/Activities-sports/Cycle-Three-Sisters.aspx

...yes, and the key to that is getting past "but I'm not cycling, because nobody else does and because it's inconvenient / unpleasant / too...

So every police officer is corrupt, most are racist etc.  Do you actually believe this?  ...

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Is The Trek 1.2 A Good Road Bike? [Review]

Table of Contents

The Trek 1.2 road bike was first introduced to riders with the Trek 1.2 2008, a moderately priced and high-quality road bike. Its fame seems to have been lukewarm.

Trek alpha 1.2

But because of the many years of sales, there have been many riders who have owned it. Let’s look at the Trek 1.2 in its current light.

What are its features, or what are its pros and cons? If you are looking to buy a suitable road bike, we are also ready to do some simple comparisons to save your precious time in selecting a bike.

Without further ado let’s get started.

Features of Trek 1.2 road bike

Aluminum frame (4.2/5).

Trek alpha 1.2 road bike

Extremely light weight with 100 Series Alpha Aluminum frame. The weight of the whole bike is 21.52 lbs.

An aggressive 73-degree head tube angle keeps the rider in a fast travel position on the track. And it also makes it easy to get better results in junior races.

It’s not exactly the fastest climber by any stretch of the imagination, but the lightweight frame and taller head tube keep it from making the climbing bad.

Carbon Fiber Fork (4.5/5)

This is one of the highlights of the Trek 1.2, and it keeps the overall weight down even further, allowing for better performance on high-speed road riding.

A steel fork or a heavier aluminum frame won’t be a hindrance to your fast climbing.

Shimano Sora drivetrain (3.9/5)

Honestly, a drivetrain like this is only available at the low end.

The 2X9 drive gearing makes it slightly less capable of performing on gravel terrain than drivetrains 3X9 and above. But the Trek 1.2, which is not intended for competition, is more of a recreational and fitness ride.

With the FSA Vero 50/34 (compact) crankset the performance on road riding is impressive.

In fact, I personally like the 50t cassette a lot, the oversized gears don’t make you pedal as hard when climbing.

As a rider who wants to ride faster, you should expect some upgrades to the Trek 1.2 Shimano Sora.

Bontrager Vacuum Tires (4.5/5)

Trek 1.2 road bike

The Trek 1.2 leaves no stone unturned when it comes to reducing body weight.

The Bontrager vacuum tires keep the weight down while increasing the speed of the ride, providing a more stable and predictable ride.

Alloy dual-pivot brakes (3.0/5)

As an early road bike, Alloy dual-pivot brakes, the braking distance will be longer compared to today’s popular disc brakes. It is also a rim brake, so it has an impact on the rim, and then it requires some adjustment for break-in.

Of course, these have very little impact on commuter riders, but if you prefer long rides, consider replacing them with mechanical disc brakes for an additional $50+ budget. This will enhance your riding experience.

Bontrager Race VR-C Handlebar (4.3/5)

The alloy handlebar has no concerns about its quality during long-term use.

The handlebars are not as curved, which allows the rider to recover the horizontal handlebar riding position more easily.

This is designed to enhance the comfort of riding.

Bontrager T1 700x25c Tires (4.2/5)

Seeking fast riding bodywork often prefers slim 23c tires, but this is very unfriendly to beginners and requires a longer learning curve.

Yet the 1.2 strikes a balance between comfort and riding speed with intermediate 25c tires, which better absorb road vibration and increase riding comfort. And the probability of a flat tire is also greatly reduced.

Pedals (4.5/5)

Rather than the low-end Wellgo nylon pedals, the Trek 1.2 uses the more expensive Wellgo nylon pedals with alloy cage, toe clips, and shoulder straps on top of that.

The ride is more about pedaling frequency than the durability of this component.

Trek 1.2 road bike Specs

Benefits of trek 1.2.

  • Super light frame
  • Carbon fiber fork
  • 2X9 drivetrain
  • 700x25c vacuum tires and double-wall rims

What we don’t like about it

  • A little hard seat
  • How much does a Trek Alpha 1.2 weight?

The Trek 1.2 56 cm frame has a body weight of 9.77 kg/21.54 lbs.

  • What is the weight limit for the Trek 1.2?

This bike has a maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider, and cargo) of 275 pounds (125 kg).

  • What frame sizes does the Trek 1.2 come in?

47, 50 ,52, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62cm frames.

Learn more: Is The Trek FX1 Worth Buying? [Trek FX1 Review]

Comparison table

Trek domane al 2 vs trek 1.2 road bike.

Trek Domane AL 2

Both Trek Domane AL 2 and Trek 1.2 road bike are priced very close to each other, and both are made of 100 Series Alpha Aluminum, which can be said to be a very good alternative to Trek 1.2 road bike.

But the Trek Domane AL 2 is more subdivided in terms of usage, and it takes into account the needs of casual riders.

In terms of drivetrain, the complete Shimano Claris 2X8 drivetrain is used, which is somewhat weaker compared to the Trek 1.2 road bike.

Next is the head tube angle of the frame, a more relaxed 71°, which is more comfortable when climbing. So Trek Domane AL 2 is more suitable for casual riders.

Trek Checkpoint ALR 4 vs Trek 1.2 Road Bike

Trek Checkpoint ALR 4

The more expensive Trek Checkpoint ALR 4 is a very good gravel road bike.

A more durable 300 Series Alpha Aluminum frame and a 2×10 Shimano GRX drivetrain with low-speed gears and a wider gear range lets you let loose on the harsh terrain of gravel surfaces.

The braking system also dwarfs the Trek 1.2 road bike with Shimano RX400 hydraulic discs, a more robust and durable brake that provides full braking power.

Finally, the 700x40c wide gravel tires are used to increase the bike’s stability on gravel roads and to ensure sufficient traction.

As a whole, the Trek Checkpoint ALR 4 is a relatively professional gravel road bike. At this point the Trek 1.2 road bike doesn’t have much of an advantage.

PINARELLO Paris Disk 105 Road Bike vs Trek 1.2 road bike

PINARELLO Paris Disk 105 Road Bike

The affordable carbon fiber frame road bike, the PINARELLO Paris Disk 105 Road Bike, is a great race road bike for the money.

After the flagship Dogma F12, Pinarello designed the Paris Disk, and they adjusted the entire frame geometry little by little based on race data, considering all aspects of the endurance race and how to help the racers improve their performance through more reasonable equipment.

Its clean and tidy internal alignment is integrated with the entire high-end Shimano 105 drivetrain, allowing riders to ride fast even on long gravel sections. With the Vittoria Zaffiro Pro 700c x 28mm pro gravel tires, it’s no match for other high-end race road bikes in endurance racing.

Naturally, these are compared to our Trek 1.2 road bike today, which has lighter frame materials and an asymmetrical frame shape that breaks conventional thinking. So this is an affordable high-end race road bike.

Schwinn Phocus 1600 vs Trek 1.2 road bike

Schwinn Phocus 1600

The Schwinn Phocus 1600 is a slightly lower end bike, more suitable for commuters on a tight budget.

With a 2X8 drivetrain and aluminum frame and slim 700x23c tires, the bike gives you a fast, agile, smooth and responsive ride.

Without the carbon fork and lighter body weight compared to the Trek 1.2 road bike.

If you’re more into short weekend trips, the Schwinn Phocus 1600 is a recreational road bike worth trying. While this setup will get you to the races, it doesn’t seem to get you to win them.

Learn more: Schwinn Phocus 1600 Review

Final Verdict (4.1/5)

At an affordable price, the not-so-low component mix makes the Trek 1.2 road bike a good road bike. Although some reviews found its road performance mediocre, as a casual rider, will enjoy its comfort. So we ended up giving the Trek 1.2 an overall rating of 4.1.

Learn more:

Is The Trek 1200 A Good Road Bike? [Review] 2021

Is The Trek 2000 A Good Road Bike?

Is The Trek 1000 A Good Road Bike? [Trek 1000 Review]-2021

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Trek Alpha 1.2 Review

February 9, 2023

Trek Alpha 1.2 Review | PedalChef

‍ Key Takeaways

  • The Trek Alpha 1.2 is a decent entry point to mountain and trail biking.
  • The components are reliable, but won’t set any records.
  • Handling and ride quality are serviceable, but braking is a major downside to this bike.
  • Experienced riders will notice a bouncier ride and less responsive shifting.

This article may contain affiliate links where we earn a commission from qualifying purchases.

‍ This bike may not win any awards, or be able to compete with pricier models, but this could be a good first mountain bike if you’ve never ridden one before.

The Trek Alpha 1.2 is a budget-friendly option that utilizes the brand’s quality components in most areas. There may be some compromises considering the more specialized options out there, but rest assured that despite its flaws this bike is no slouch.

We’ve looked at the most-reviewed features (including the negatives as well as the positives) to bring you the best info available on the Alpha 1.2.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

‍ Where to Buy the Trek Alpha 1.2

The Trek Alpha 1.2 costs $959, and can be purchased directly from the Trek website .

A Brief History of Trek Bicycles

Trek was founded in the 1970s, attempting to penetrate the high-end market that had up until that point been dominated by European makers. It quickly gained a reputation for quality, with a foundation on hand-built steel frames.

However, launching its own factory in the 1980s meant that it also had to keep with the times, which meant a shift to aluminum frames. It also meant the advent of hybrid bikes, which combined the best of mountain bikes and road bikes into one line. The next decades led to several brand acquisitions and consistent recognition in the marketplace for excellence in quality and performance.

Trek’s Bontrager line of accessories is also a gold standard for those wanting to customize their bikes. They also held a long-standing licensing agreement to produce LeMond bikes, a prominent brand in speed racing (although this brand has since been discontinued).

Trek Alpha 1.2 Specs and Geometry

The Alpha 1.2 has had several iterations over time, which means that although it is a budget-friendly option, it has had the chance to improve over time. Trek does a good job of incorporating research and features from its higher-end bikes on down the spectrum, and the Alpha is no exception. It benefits from the quality parts Trek has built its reputation on over the decades.

The Alpha 1.2 weighs 21.5 pounds. This is a lighter bike for sure, which (in addition to a price point under a thousand dollars) makes this a great starting point for riders that are exploring mountain and trail riding but don’t want to break the bank just yet.

This lighter bike weight does mean that the overall weight capacity is slightly lower. The total capacity (which includes the bike itself, the rider, and all equipment and accessories) is 275 pounds. This may not cause problems for the majority of riders, but if you plan on bringing any kind of gear with you on the trail, you will want to think carefully about what you bring along.

The handlebars are not curved, which can make it easier to bring them back to a straight-forward position. This is a benefit to those who might not be used to a curved setup, although it does have some limitations for more experienced riders and may be a less comfortable position on longer rides.

The price point and equipment set does put this bike at the lower end of the spectrum when it comes to quality and all-around excellence. This does not in any way diminish the many positives of this bike; but when set next to its bigger and more expensive counterparts, it lacks some luster and looks appropriately less outstanding by comparison.

There are seven different sizes to choose from, making this a versatile choice no matter what size you may be. A little planning and research gives you the perfect fit for your personal size.

Trek Alpha 1.2 Build Quality

We hesitate to return to the term “affordable” too often, but it does come into play when thinking about the build quality and included components. It is affordable in most senses of the word, and while that does not mean the quality is poor, you could do better by shelling out a few extra dollars and going with a more premium model.

Like many Trek bikes, the Alpha 1.2 features an aluminum frame. This lends to the overall lighter weight, and sets it in great company with its Trek brethren as sturdy bikes that will hold up to whatever Mother Nature can dish out.

The frame does rise at the front end, which does create a more comfortable upright riding position. This is a simple tweak that seasoned riders will appreciate, and can provide a helpful learning experience if it’s your first time on the trail.

As with other elements of the bike, the fork is also lightweight, which makes handling a bit easier to manage

The drivetrain assembly features a 2x9 setup, allowing for low and high shifting at any speed. This is a perfectly reliable option that adds a welcome layer of control for those who want to get the most out of their performance.

That being said, it is a slightly less specialized version than the one found in the road-going bike. This is one area where Trek may not have cut corners, but has instead opted for a less premium setup that shows in what results from the sum of its parts.

The pedals, however, seem to be of higher quality than can be found on other budget bikes. The various pieces will hold up well over time, and offer an easy pedaling experience. This is a positive that may seem simple, but is invaluable while out on the track.

Trek Alpha 1.2 Handling

The lightweight frame does cause some roughness in the ride. It may not absorb all of the shocks and bumps that come from rough terrain, but the ride quality is not diminished in such a way as to render it a miserable experience.

Over calmer terrains, the lighter tires do create a smooth ride. They are 25 millimeters wide, which is narrow by most standards but perfectly serviceable on this bike.

The Alpha 1.2 does accelerate well for its class. Easy pedaling and solid speed control create a fun experience on steady trails and uphill climbs.

The main downside to higher speed is that the brakes leave something to be desired. The brakes are a dual-pivot design, which is nowhere near as effective as hydraulic disc brakes. This is a major pitfall, and can especially cause problems if you have trouble managing your speed on downhill grades.

Overall, however, the handling and ride position does create a balanced seat for the rider. You can be confident in your control of the bike, and in how you can respond to your surroundings.

Trek Alpha 1.2 Ride Quality and Performance

One other complaint related to the ride quality is that the seat can be hard. This component is fairly easy to customize, however, and it may be worth looking into this if you plan to keep this bike for any length of time.

While the lighter tires do make it a capable performer in turns and straights, they can cause some wobble over trickier patches. Use extra caution when going over gravel or rockier areas, as the lighter tires will show their shortcomings if you’re not careful.

Climbing and Descending

It isn’t the fastest climber of the bunch, but it gets the job done. There’s plenty to like about this bike, even if it won’t set any records flying uphill.

What it lacks in uphill speed, it more than makes up for on the downhill push. But as we’ve noted, that’s not always a good thing. Keep your wits about you, and be ready to pay extra attention to brake management so you don’t spin out of control.

Trek Alpha 1.2 Pros and Cons

Trek alpha 1.2 pros.

The Alpha 1.2 makes the most of its Trek brand reputation, and leans heavily into the components it has built its name upon.

It is a lighter bike than others at higher price points, with the trademark aluminum frame that Trek is known for.

Setting the handlebars in a more straight configuration may turn away some trail-riding veterans, but this can lend itself to a stable and reliable ride for those who need to log more hours on the trail.

The acceleration is reliable enough, and the ride position will make anyone comfortable on straight tracks and uphill climbs.

  • Brand reputation and overall quality
  • Light weight
  • Aluminum frame
  • Straight handlebars
  • Reliable acceleration
  • Solid handling and comfortable riding position

Trek Alpha 1.2 Cons

The Trek Alpha 1.2 does come at an affordable price point, but it does follow that the components and build quality will be slightly lower than other bikes.

The drivetrain is less specialized, and while that may not mean much to some, it can turn away other riders who may want that level of control.

It does feature a rougher ride due to its lighter weight, and the lighter tires also take away some stability. It may be fine on steady tracks, but when the going gets tough you may want to think about upgrading in certain areas.

One area you don’t want to skimp on when upgrading this bike is the brakes. Look into how you can best fix this shortcoming by choosing new brakes after purchasing, or decide if it’s worth choosing a different bike altogether.

  • Lower overall quality when compared to premium models
  • Less specialized drivetrain
  • Rougher ride due to lighter frame
  • Lighter tires are less stable
  • Braking leaves much to be desired

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About THE AUTHOR

Danny Lawson

Danny Lawson

Mountain biking is more than just a hobby for me - it's a way of life. I love the challenge and excitement that comes with it, and I'm always pushing myself to go faster and ride harder. Some people might think that mountain biking is dangerous, but I see it as the only way to live.

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PedalChef is a blog on all things cycling. We are a group of people who love bikes, and we want to share the joy that comes with the experience. You can read more about us here .

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velo trek 1.2

velo trek 1.2

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Trek Pilot 2.1 Road Bike

velo trek 1.2

  • Bontrager Satellite Plus Fork
  • Bontrager Select Wheels
  • Bontrager Race 52/42/30 Crankset
  • Shimano 105 Rear Derailleur
  • USER REVIEWS

Been riding this when going to Mission Viejo Green Tree Service and never encountered any trouble. Good smooth shifters. Big wheels, ideal for cruising at high speed. Shocks eat up bumps. Well built. Repositionable handlebars. Good on flat roads, has decent off-road capabilities too.

Definitely nothing weakness found at this time.

Excellent Bike especially for someone wanting to do serious biking but needs comfort. Bike fits well

Brakes could be a better. Had to replace stock back wheel with a stronger model to support my weitht.

I purchased the Trek Pilot 2.1 when I got back into road bikes again at the ripe young age of 66. Until then I had been only a casual rider. I had planned to spend a lot less on a bike, but was directed by the salesman toward this model. It was an excellend decision. After seeing other reviews, I wanted to add mine to this excellent bike. Disappointed that Trek no longer offers the Pilot line--especially for the entry/casulal/serious rider. I have ridden the bike more than 6,000 miles including Bike across Kansas, the Katy Trail, ect. Never any problems with bike.

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The only bike I had to compare with was a 60's model road bike. There is no comparison. Since riding the bike, my brother has passed on his 5.9 along to me. The more expensive components and carbon put it into another class, but the 2.1 can hang in there with the 5.9

No flex from frame- I am 6'6" and used to weigh 250 and the bike still handled like a dream. Very comfortable ride- It is not a race bike but at 40 years old I like the more forgiving position of the Pilot. Totally cool carbon seat stays- Makes the road feel smoother and keeps the backside happy on long rides.

Some of the black annodized nuts are starting to oxidize- Probably my fault because I rarely clean the bike so I leave sweat and road grime on it for extended periods of time. Bonetrager/Cane Creek brake combination work alright if recently tuned but if you let them go for a while you really have to grab a handful to stop quickly.

I got the Trek just for Sunday rides and realized I could do 30 miles easy so I started to commute to work on it. (weather permitting)The ultegra/105 component mix make the bike very smooth and ultra dependable. Over 3000 miles and it is still running strong. The only problem that I have experienced was rough shifting but I cleaned the drive train and everything went back to normal. I could honestly recommend this bike to anyone that is serious about biking because the price tag can take a bite out of your wallet. But if you commute for just one year you can cover the expense of the bike.

All other bikes were hybrids that were substantially heavier and slower. This bike is much faster than anything I have ever rode. I can commute at an average speed of ~17 to 20 (uphill to work downhill home)

the overall weight of the bike seem very light and stiff yet with a real plush ride

overall most of the bontrager part the saddle is really bad after 15 miles I the brakes need to be adjusted almost every ride but other than that I love the bike

It came with 105 10x3 shifters and ultrega components cane creek brakes Bontrager select rims, saddle, seat post, handlebars and stem.I just got a Polar cs200 I've notice I'm able to get up to and maintain 15mph as my avg. and I consider myself really out of shape

09 Allez, Scott S40,

My kids bought a men's rx seat for me for Christmas. I really enjoy that seat and would recommend replacing the seat. The bike rides really smooth on rough roads and shifts really great

I don't know any weaknesses as I have only ridden a 7500 fx and a target bike. This is a great bike

My Son hounded me about getting a Trek bike. I bought his 7500 fx. It is a good bike and I rode about 1,500 miles on it. I bought my pilot 2.1 in May I have around 750 miles on it and love it. It is really smooth. I am not a professional so I can't tell you all the good or bad . But I feel it is a lot smoother and I get a lot of miles racked up and my knees don't hurt like last year

Plush ride. Great long distance comfort. The 105 shift/brake levers are flawless. The Cane Creek brake set is up to the task. They are much better then they look.

The Bontrager components are not the greatest. They are a cost cutting measure. I was going to swap the wheelset after breaking some spokes the new select seris wheel is working fine. The fork could be stiffer under hard breaking. Does an Ultegra front DR really cost that much more?????

I bought the Pilot after my beloved Bianchi Giro and I parted company. My racing days are long over and the Pilot fit what I was looking for. No it does not handle like my Giro did but it also does not make my back feel like the Giro did either. The bike is plush to ride the carbon forks and rear seatstays are great for long distances. The Bontrager components are pretty junky. After about 300 miles I started breaking spoke on the rear rim, drive side. No problem Trek gladly replaced the rim with a Bontrager select series and I have not had any further problems. The bike climbs well both out of the saddle as well as in. I ditched the 3rd chainring and set the stop screw in after several key missed down shifts. I never used the thing. I plan on replacing the front DR for an Ultegra and have replaced the stem with and Easton. Frankly the bike is an excellent ride if your not looking to race with it. Long distances are really a breeze on this thing. Ohh ditch the stock saddle to. I have the Perfomance Pro SLX and it's great. I miss my Bianchi we were together for 12 years but I can ride faster, longer on this bike. I test rode the 07 model but did not purchase until this year. No 07's available but plenty of 08's. Buy it for the comfort and flip the stem for more aero effect.

None. This is the 1st non-hardcore bike I have ever owned.

Flats, Hill climbing. Carbon front and back forks provides significant dampening of road vibration. Compact design makes you feel like you're riding your couch:). It is significantly stable. Gear shifting is near flawless.

Need to get used to the double click gear shifting. Otherwise okay.

I rode several bikes before deciding on this one. I was riding a Cannondale SR 400 from 1986 for many miles, but I began to have a lot of pain in the shoulders & buttocks. I started searching for a new bike in February. I liked the Specialized, but found it too small and too compact, hitting my shoes on turns. I rode a Navarro by REI, but did not like the gears, esp. on hills. I then rode the Trek 2.1 Pilot and instantly fell in love with the easy posture and accurate gear-shifting. After 1 week and 100 miles, I don't feel any muscle or back aches that I felt previously. This bike loves the flats and getting up hills can easily be done on the middle chain ring, surprisingly. There is no vibration. No strange noises, just a smooth ride. Repositioning from a standing stance (ie. Hill climbing) to a seated one is very easy and there is no feeling of instability. There was some getting used to the double-click feature on the front gear. But that was easily resolved. I would recommend this bike for larger, but athletic riders and people with back and neck problems who still want a competitive ride. I am a little heavier, muscular, but hill climbing is easier with this bike. Additionally, going down-hill at 40 mph produces no shudder. The upright stance gives you complete control. I also want to give a shout out to Local Bike Stores. In this case BikeTech, who really surprised me by ensuring that I had the right size bike, 58 instead of 54. They measured me and gave me tips on hill climbing and posture. Additionally, called me to let me know that my bike had just had 20% knocked off of it before I purchased it. Another bike store where I was looking at a Lemond Alpe D'Huez, laughed at the possibility of dropping the price from $1800. "We just don't do that here." Additionally, BikeTech added a package that included Waterbottle, backpack and other additions. Additionally, I thought that I needed a 54 (which they originally told me was not the size I needed, but I insisted), they ordered one and then told me no, this was not the size for me. They were totally correct. My entire posture was terrible. Additionally, I was given 2 hours to test ride the correct bike. I went to my practice 10 degree hill and back and test rode the bike for 25 miles before deciding on the bike. They were willing to make adjustments as needed at no extra charge. Just a shout out to the local bike store. Thanks!

Previous Bike: Cannondale SR 400 (1986). Test Rode: Specialized Allez Compact/ GT road bike/Cannondale CAAD9 Triple/Novara Strada/Lemond Alpe d'Huez.

light, great components for the price, upright position for casual rider, Ultegra, lifetime warranty on frame, essential carbon parts, price.

stock seat can be better.

I picked up 2006 model at an LBS as my first road bike after spending years with casual MTB and Motocross racing experiences. LBS on Valencia st in SF had my size with a huge discount tag (1 year old model + seasonal store wide sale). I liked 2006 color much better than 2007 one, and 2006 had Ultegra derailleurs for BOTH front and rear. You'll get Ultegra only for the rear on 2007 model (front: 105). If you find a 2006 model, get it! Thanks to its upright position, I didn't have too hard time to get used to the road bike riding form. Coming from MTB world, god damn this thing is light! I can't believe how light and smooth my everyday ride have gotten. The bike needs to be broken-in a bit more,and then tuned up. I'm getting Koobi PRS Endulo. I weight 136 lb (I'm a guy) and my seatbone is fairly thin. Other than the stock seat, I have no problem with the set up, and loving more and more everyday.

Carbor fork, seat stay and seat post, great geometry, good components for the price.

Road vibration. Some rust on a couple of bolts and chain after only 6 months. Rear shift cable rusted and had to be replaced after 6 months.

Great bike for the price. The more upright position is well suited for my less flexible 58 year old frame. I chsnged the 105 front derailleur for an Ultegra, added Look Keo Sprint pedals. I love the way it looks - brilliant silver - a very sharp looking bike. The seat took a while to break in, but then it was comfortable.

Specialized Roubaix

handling, speed.

Decent entry level road bike. Upright position contributes to comfort on long rides in the mountains, but detracts from aerodynamics and handling. Handles like a 1970's Cadillac compared to my Tommasini, which is like a Ferrari. Still lots of road buzz even with lots of carbon.

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Trek 2.1 vs. Trek 1.2

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I've only test ridden the Trek 2, but plan on test riding the Trek 1 soon. I was very, very impressed with the 2, which might be expected since it is over $1K. If I could get away with it without compromising quality, I would be happy to spend 200 or 300 less for the 1. Should I expect very similar quality or will the component compromise of the Trek 1 become an issue sooner rather than later (performance and durability)? Thanks for your replies in advance!  

my advice my advice would be if you have the money to get the better components, go ahead and do it. when i first started cycling i got a basic trek 1000. i absolutely loved it. it was the perfect bike. however a year down the road i wish i got a bike with a little better components. on the flip side, if you are just going out for a bike ride and enjoy just riding your bike around with no intention on racing then save a few hundred bucks, because you probably wouldnt notice a big difference on the minor upgrade of components. either bike will be a nice bike and you will like it.  

2ndGen

Thanks for your feedback. I should mention that my budget is about $1300 max for a bicycle.  

it really depends on how much you weight. i have a 4.7 madone and my friend got the 2.1. his bike rides nice and feels very fun and responsive to ride. the only issue he has with the bike is that the wheelset flexes a bit when he climbs. he is 210 and not as smooth of a rider. i would say get the 2.1 as it feels more like my carbon frame and we all know from mountian bike riding that better parts just last longer. enjoy karl  

zac

roadmountain said: I've only test ridden the Trek 2, but plan on test riding the Trek 1 soon. I was very, very impressed with the 2, which might be expected since it is over $1K. If I could get away with it without compromising quality, I would be happy to spend 200 or 300 less for the 1. Should I expect very similar quality or will the component compromise of the Trek 1 become an issue sooner rather than later (performance and durability)? Thanks for your replies in advance! Click to expand...

This is some great feedback, thank you. I test rode a 2009 Trek 2.1. I was almost amazed. The ride itself was amazing, and the only detractor I could notice were the brakes, which didn't seem to work very well. Do you think $1120 is a good price is a good price for an '09 Trek 2.1? I'll test ride the 1, but the 2 made a very positive impression on me!  

Trek2.3

I like the 2 series. I have a 2.1 and a 2.3. I got all Ultegra parts off ebay for under $300 and I'm upgrading the 2.3 as well as putting the 105 group on the 2.1. With the 105 group, the 2.1 becomes a 2.3 in all but color scheme. Both are super bikes. I tried a madrone but decided the ride was the same and I'd save the 3 grand.  

roadmountain said: This is some great feedback, thank you. I test rode a 2009 Trek 2.1. I was almost amazed. The ride itself was amazing, and the only detractor I could notice were the brakes, which didn't seem to work very well. Do you think $1120 is a good price is a good price for an '09 Trek 2.1? I'll test ride the 1, but the 2 made a very positive impression on me! Click to expand...

To be honest, I have a strong preference for the esthetics of the 2.1 '09 rather than the 2.3 '09. I know, but that's the way it is. The 2010 2.1 looks pretty sharp too. The 2010 2.3 is pushing it on price to be sure.  

roadmountain said: To be honest, I have a strong preference for the esthetics of the 2.1 '09 rather than the 2.3 '09. I know, but that's the way it is. The 2010 2.1 looks pretty sharp too. The 2010 2.3 is pushing it on price to be sure. Click to expand...
2ndGen said: I'm a champion of the Trek 1.5. If I were going for a 2.X Series, I'd go with the 2.3. Why? Both the 1.5 and the 2.3 get great reviews from bike mags (the 1.5 won Best Entry Level Road Bike by Bicycling in '09 and is currently an editor's choice for '10). As for the 1.X vs 2.X Series discussion...that will depend on you really. I went with the lowest series because I always knew I'd upgrade to a $3K bike eventually. I don't personally buy by components groups on bikes I'm going to upgrade anyway. If you know enough now to know that this will be a very long term bike, then I'd definitely say go for the 2.X bike. It's an excellent bike (as is the 1.5). But in my humble opinion I'd go with the 1.5 or the 2.3. Either bike will not need upgrading for a long while in their respective categories. (1.5, entry level bike, 2.3, recreational rider/possible entry level racer). The only real difference in the two from what I've come to learn is (besides components groups) are the carbon stays on the 2.X bikes which give it a slightly better ride that really becomes noticeable on longer rides. Personally, I ended up falling in love with my 1.5 and am putting about $2,000. into it. Wheels, saddle, cockpit, groupset...for that money I could get a new Madone, but it wouldn't be my upgraded 1.5. 1.X Series bikes are by far the best alumnimum frame bikes you can get for the money. The only thing that beats it is a CAAD9, but now you're talking about a bike designed more for racing (which is also on my hit list). If you're just venturing into road biking and want to get a feel for it more, the 1.5 is a great choice to get your feet wet with. I have guys with $10,000. bikes that like my bike and compliment it even on how it rides. If you're more seasoned, the 2.3 is a great bike too. The jump up in price between the 1.2/1.5 and the 2.1/2.3 is really not much when you figure how much MORE you get for the relatively small difference. If I had to do it all over again knowing what I know now however, I'd still get the 1.5. Good luck and let us know what you choose. Click to expand...

Be careful, Trek built down the 2010 2.3 because it was too competative with the much more expensive madones. Still a nice bike but the 2009's with carbon stays are THE BEST BUY. If you don't like the brakes, change the pads -- they are cheap.  

I have a strong preference for the alu at this point, simply because I've test ridden one and loved it. My only qualm with the 2.1 would be the brakes. They didn't seem to work very well. I suppose I could swap out the pads, but dual pivot is supposed to offer a leverage advantage so maybe they could be adjusted for better power. A 10 speed cassette would be nice too, but man, the memory of the 2.1 is of a spectacular ride.... I'm having a hard time thinking about this logically! I was ready to cut a check right then and there!  

nrg4isu said: Note: The 2010 2.3 does NOT have carbon stays. That was something trek ditched after the 2009 bike and instead went with full 105 group components. Just adding my 2 cents. I own the 2.3 and although I haven't put many miles on it yet (40), I love it. The only thing I'd change so far is the seat... and I'm giving it some break-in time before I really decide on that. I chose the 2.3 over the other bikes mainly because I know that I'm going to have this bike for a loooong time. I love the frame (hydroformed) over the 1.X frames, and appreciate the better wheels and full 105 group. Click to expand...
2ndGen said: Yeah, just found that out that they went full aluminum. I wonder why they did that? Carbon supposedly gave it a better ride. I'd like to see Trek make a premium aluminum frame ala' CAAD9. I'm starting to upgrade components on my 1.5. So far, an Ultegra SL Crankset with Dura Ace 7800 Bottom Bracket. Everything else will be full Dura Ace 7800 (shifters, brakes, etc...) except for the cassette which'll be an Ultegra (since they are more durable). Now that the weather is finally getting nicer, I can get a new wheelset and turn my stock SSR wheels into a training/bad weather set. Click to expand...
roadmountain said: Do you sell your old parts? Keep them around? Click to expand...

A spectacular ride only comes once in a while. Buy the 2.1. You can always upgrade next winter.  

I'm ready to start researching bike racks so I can bring it home, lol. Any suggestions?  

I have an 09 Trek 2.1. It really is a great bike. I upgraded the pads and now it stops on a dime - they are awsome now. I ride with fast group rides and have never had issues. I paid $1100 May 09, so try and get more off. I did change the bar tape to black and just changed to Soul S4.0 wheels. The 09 colors are brighter than the 10 model. I think either 2.1 is a great buy for a advanced entry level bike. Good luck.  

roadmountain said: Yeah, I'm getting frustrated that everyone who posts got a lower price than I am likely to get. Is it because I'm in Cali? PS: test rode a Felt 75 today. The Trek is clearly nicer. Click to expand...

Get the best price you can on the bike you want. Markets vary on pricing, so take that into consideration. Cali is always strong, hence the lower need to discount. I love my 2.1. In the Fall with all the new groups coming out, I will upgrade, but because I want to not because the bike needs it. I riide some vey fast 18-20 mph avg B rides and the 2.1 runs will much more expensive bikes. The biggest factor is the motor. Good luck.  

I paid $1099 for my 2009 Trek 2.1 and didn't feel cheated. Next week it gets the 105 group off my 2.3 so it will be a second super bike. BTW ebay is great. I assembled an Untegra group for my 2.3 for about $250 by watching the slow movers.  

Went to a "high end" shop to test ride the new 2010 2.1 I was underwhelmed. First, the shop is in a very affluent, vanilla conservative town, and I felt slightly out of place. Second, even though the shop was "high end" the employees were slightly challenged. The employee who "helped" me said the bike I confirmed was ready for a test ride wasn't in stock. He said it might be in stock at their warehouse down the street. Fifteen minutes later he arrives back empty handed. He looks up and the bike I'm to test ride was directly above his head when I asked him! The bike didn't feel right. There were some mechanical noises and vibrations coming from the bottom bracket. The saddle height was adjusted improperly, as a result, ironically, of this employee's trying to adjust it. The front derailleur wouldn't shift. I didn't like riding it. Whatever they pay their employee's it's not enough to attract talented help. I was bored. Sometimes, you get it right the first time.  

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velo trek 1.2

  • Rider Notes

2017 Trek 1.2

velo trek 1.2

An aluminum frame race bike with mid-range components and rim brakes.

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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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5'10" – 6'2"

6'0" – 6'4"

6'2" – 6'5"

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Do you have this bike? Help other riders make a decision about which size will work for them by sharing your own size and fit notes. Report your fit

Cyclist

Nov 2016 · Marc Abbott

An aluminium race-bred Sora smoothie from Trek

Decent range of Sora components

Robust but comfortable

Fast and responsive

Sluggish brakes and tyres

Slightly restrictive gearing

Read Review

BikeRadar

Jan 2016 · David Rome

Unfortunately, the 1.2 doesn’t quite do the Trek badge justice – nervous-feeling tyres and weak brakes left us lacking confidence in this entry-level model. Buy if you're after a solid entry-level bike, and don't mind spending extra on replacing the tyres and brakes

Proven frame geometry with balanced handling and position, quality wheels, saddle

Tyres, brakes, tight handlebar bend, and did we mention tyres?

road.cc

Jan 2015 · Mat Brett

Very good value, ideal for anyone looking for a first road bike, with just the brakes as a low point

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Trek Series 1.2 2014

Series 1.2 | Culture Vélo

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  1. Trek 1.2

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  3. TREK 1.2 ALPHA ALUMINUM 58cm Pearl White Road Bike Excellent Condition

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  6. Trek 1.1 C H2 Road Bike 2017

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COMMENTS

  1. 1.2

    Weight. 56cm - 9.77 kg / 21.54 lbs. Weight limit. This bike has a maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider, and cargo) of 275 pounds (125 kg). Bike and frame weights are based off pre-production painted frames at time of publication. Weights may vary in final production.

  2. Review: Trek 1.2 road bike

    The Trek 1.2 is a very good value option that would be an ideal choice if you're after your first road bike. The 1.2 is the middle of Trek's three 1 Series aluminium road bikes, sitting between the Shimano Claris-equipped 1.1 (£575) and the 1.5 (£750), which comes with Shimano Tiagra components.

  3. 1.2

    Les poids des vélos et cadres sont ceux des cadres peints de préproduction au moment de la publication. Les poids peuvent varier en production finale. Découvrez le prochain vélos de vos rêves avec le 1.2. Jetez un œil au vélo et rendez-vous chez votre revendeur local Trek.

  4. Trek 1.2 Road Bike user reviews : 3.8 out of 5

    Weakness: none. the best road bike for the money. protour geometry. same stance with the upper level madone 0nly on the relaxed side. The 1.2 weights 21.0 lbs. whereas the madone 5.2 goes to 16.0 costing thousands more. durable with no problem.

  5. Trek 1.2 review

    Solid entry-level roadster compromised by some dodgy kit

  6. Trek 1.2 review

    Trek 1.2 review - BikeRadar

  7. Trek 1.2 review

    US bike company Trek has taken a slightly different approach to its compatriot and rival Specialized with its affordable road Trek 1.2 review | Cyclist An aluminium race-bred Sora smoothie from Trek

  8. Trek 1.2 Road Bike Review

    A superb entry-level road bike with serious intentions, Trek's 1.2 would make a great training bike or a commuter but is very much a racer through and throug...

  9. Trek 1.2 WSD Road Bike

    DESCRIPTION. Trek's 1.2 Triple WSD is a shining example of trickle-down technology. The heart and soul of this speed demon is Trek's Alpha White aluminum frame and the Bontrager carbon fork, an impressive combination shared with much more expensive machines. Add the Shimano 24-speed drivetrain, powerful dual-pivot brakes and select Bontrager ...

  10. Trek 1.2 review

    A very stable bike that would be great for a cautious new rider

  11. 2017 Trek 1.2

    Trek 1.2 review. Unfortunately, the 1.2 doesn't quite do the Trek badge justice - nervous-feeling tyres and weak brakes left us lacking confidence in this entry-level model. Buy if you're after a solid entry-level bike, and don't mind spending extra on replacing the tyres and brakes.

  12. 2009 Trek 1.2

    Frame: Alpha White Aluminum. Fork: Bontrager Approved, carbon. Headset: Aheadset Slimstak w/semi-cartridge bearings, sealed. Stem: Bontrager SSR OS, 10 degree, 31.8mm

  13. 1.2

    Trek carbon road; Wheels. Wheels Bontrager alloy hubs, Bontrager Tubeless Ready rims. Front hub Bontrager alloy. Rear hub Bontrager alloy. Rims Bontrager Tubeless Ready. Tires Bontrager T1, 700x23c; Drivetrain. Shifters Shimano Sora, 9 speed. Front derailleur Shimano Sora. Rear derailleur Shimano Sora. Crank FSA Vero 50/34 (compact)

  14. Is The Trek 1.2 A Good Road Bike? [Review]

    Final Verdict (4.1/5) At an affordable price, the not-so-low component mix makes the Trek 1.2 road bike a good road bike. Although some reviews found its road performance mediocre, as a casual rider, will enjoy its comfort. So we ended up giving the Trek 1.2 an overall rating of 4.1.

  15. Trek Alpha 1.2 Review

    Trek does a good job of incorporating research and features from its higher-end bikes on down the spectrum, and the Alpha is no exception. It benefits from the quality parts Trek has built its reputation on over the decades. The Alpha 1.2 weighs 21.5 pounds. This is a lighter bike for sure, which (in addition to a price point under a thousand ...

  16. Trek Pilot 2.1 Road Bike

    5. ★★★★★. ★★★★★. Strength: the overall weight of the bike seem very light and stiff yet with a real plush ride. Weakness: overall most of the bontrager part the saddle is really bad after 15 miles I the brakes need to be adjusted almost every ride but other than that I love the bike.

  17. Trek 1.2

    Speedster 50 2023. Découvrez le 1.2 Trek, à partir de 749€ ! Vélos Route Trek géométrie Homme.

  18. Trek 2.1 vs. Trek 1.2

    The jump up in price between the 1.2/1.5 and the 2.1/2.3 is really not much when you figure how much MORE you get for the relatively small difference. ... Note: The 2010 2.3 does NOT have carbon stays. That was something trek ditched after the 2009 bike and instead went with full 105 group components. Just adding my 2 cents.

  19. 1.2

    Weight. Weight. 56cm - 9.76 kg / 21.52 lbs. Weight limit. This bike has a maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider, and cargo) of 275 pounds (125 kg). Bike and frame weights are based off pre-production painted frames at time of publication. Weights may vary in final production. size-table. Size.

  20. 2017 Trek 1.2

    Decent range of Sora components. Robust but comfortable. Fast and responsive. Lows. Sluggish brakes and tyres. Slightly restrictive gearing. Jan 2016 David Rome. Unfortunately, the 1.2 doesn't quite do the Trek badge justice - nervous-feeling tyres and weak brakes left us lacking confidence in this entry-level model.

  21. Trek Series 1.2

    Nos marques. Découvrez le Series 1.2 Trek, à partir de 899€ ! Vélos Route Trek Cyclosport , Cadre Aluminium géométrie Homme.

  22. 1.2 WSD

    Components. Bike and frame weights are based off pre-production painted frames at time of publication. Weights may vary in final production. Discover your next great ride with 1.2 WSD. See the bike and visit your local Trek retailer.

  23. Modified 2010 Trek 1.2 Alfa

    This is my Modified Trek 1.2Great Bike for the moneyI have put more than 8000 Miles so far and still runs greatLove TREK BIKES!!!