Trek 520 is a steel touring bike made for the open road. It’s the longest-running model in our lineup, and it’s built to carry you and your gear on your longest journeys. Rack and fender mounts, a wide range of gearing for climbing, and a stable touring geometry make it the perfect choice for loaded multi-day trips and comfortable all-day adventures.
Colors: Anthracite, Diablo Red
Sizes: 48, 51, 54, 57, 60, 63
Trek 520 2021 specification
Frameset
| *Frame | Size: 48, 63 Trek butted chromoly disc touring, rack & fender mounts, 135x5mm QR |
|---|---|
| Size: 51, 54, 57, 60 butted chromoly disc touring, rack & fender mounts, 135x5mm QR | |
| Fork | Alloy disc touring, rack mounts, 100x5mm ThruSkew |
| Fender/rack mounts | Bontrager BackRack Deluxe, Interchange compatible, size small |
Trek 520 2021 Wheels
| Hub front | Shimano M475, 6-bolt disc, 100x5mm QR |
|---|---|
| Skewer front | 130x5mm QR, ThruSkew |
| Hub rear | Shimano M475, 6-bolt disc, 135x5mm QR |
| Rim | Bontrager Affinity Disc, Tubeless Ready, 36-hole, 21mm width, Presta valve |
| Spokes | 14g stainless steel |
| Tire | Bontrager H1 Hard-Case Ultimate, reflective, wire bead, 60tpi, 700x38mm |
| Max tire size | 29×2.00″ |
Trek 520 2021 Drivetrain
| *Shifter | Size: 48, 51, 54, 57, 60, 63 Shimano Sora R3000, 9 speed |
|---|---|
| Size: 48, 51, 54, 57, 60, 63 Shimano Sora R3030, 3 speed | |
| Front derailleur | Shimano Sora R3030, 34.9mm (w/28.6 adapter) clamp |
| Rear derailleur | Shimano Alivio M4000, long cage, 36T max cog |
| *Crank | Size: 48, 51 Shimano Alivio T4060, 48/36/26, 2-piece w/chain guard, 170mm length |
| Size: 54, 57, 60, 63 Shimano Alivio T4060, 48/36/26, 2-piece w/chain guard, 175mm length | |
| Cassette | Shimano HG200, 11-36, 9 speed |
| Chain | KMC X9 |
| Pedal | Wellgo nylon body, alloy cage |
| Max chainring size | 2x: 42T, 3x: 48T |
Trek 520 2021 Components
| Saddle | Bontrager Evoke |
|---|---|
| *Seatpost | Size: 48 Bontrager alloy, 27.2mm, 12mm offset, 250mm length |
| Size: 51, 54, 57, 60, 63 Bontrager alloy, 27.2mm, 12mm offset, 330mm length | |
| *Handlebar | Size: 48 Bontrager Comp VR-C, alloy, 31.8mm, 100mm reach, 124mm drop, 40cm width |
| Size: 51, 54 Bontrager Comp VR-C, alloy, 31.8mm, 100mm reach, 124mm drop, 42cm width | |
| Size: 57, 60, 63 Bontrager Comp VR-C, alloy, 31.8mm, 100mm reach, 124mm drop, 44cm width | |
| Handlebar tape | Bontrager Gel Cork tape |
| *Stem | Size: 48 Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 80mm length |
| Size: 51 Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 90mm length | |
| Size: 54, 57 Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm clamp, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 100mm length | |
| Size: 60, 63 Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm clamp, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 110mm length | |
| Headset | 1-1/8” threadless, sealed cartridge bearings |
| Brake | TRP Spyre C 2.0 mechanical disc, 160mm rotor |
Accessories
| *Cargo rack | Size: 48, 51, 54, 57, 60, 63 Bontrager BackRack Deluxe, Interchange compatible, maximum load 25 kg / 55 lbs |
|---|---|
| Size: 48, 51, 54, 57, 60, 63 Bontrager Carry Forward |
Trek 520 2021 Weight
| Weight | 54 – 14.24 kg / 31.4 lbs |
|---|---|
| Weight limit | This bike has a maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider, and cargo) of 275 pounds (125 kg). |
Trek 520 2021 sizing
| Size | Rider Height | Inseam |
|---|---|---|
| 48 | 158 – 163 cm5’2″ – 5’4″ | 74 – 77 cm29″ – 30″ |
| 51 | 162 – 168 cm5’4″ – 5’6″ | 76 – 79 cm30″ – 31″ |
| 54 | 168 – 174 cm5’6″ – 5’9″ | 78 – 82 cm31″ – 32″ |
| 57 | 173 – 184 cm5’8″ – 6’0″ | 81 – 86 cm32″ – 34″ |
| 60 | 185 – 190 cm6’1″ – 6’3″ | 86 – 90 cm34″ – 35″ |
| 63 | 190 – 197 cm6’3″ – 6’6″ | 89 – 93 cm35″ – 37″ |
Trek 520 2021 geometry
All measurements provided in cm unless otherwise noted.
| Frame size number | Wheel size | A — Seat tube | B — Seat tube angle | C — Head tube length | D — Head angle | E — Effective top tube | F — Bottom bracket height | G — Bottom bracket drop | H — Chainstay length | I — Offset | J — Trail | K — Wheelbase | L — Standover | M — Frame reach | N — Frame stack |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 48 cm | 700c | 44.0 | 74.3° | 11.5 | 69.5° | 52.0 | 27.4 | 7.5 | 45.0 | 5.2 | 7.4 | 104.1 | 71.3 | 36.8 | 54.0 |
| 51 cm | 700c | 48.2 | 74.0° | 12.5 | 70.0° | 53.1 | 27.4 | 7.5 | 45.0 | 5.2 | 7.1 | 104.5 | 74.1 | 37.3 | 55.1 |
| 54 cm | 700c | 51.2 | 73.8° | 14.0 | 71.0° | 54.3 | 27.8 | 7.0 | 45.0 | 5.2 | 6.5 | 104.8 | 76.8 | 37.8 | 56.5 |
| 57 cm | 700c | 54.3 | 73.5° | 16.0 | 71.8° | 55.7 | 27.8 | 7.0 | 45.0 | 5.2 | 5.9 | 105.2 | 79.4 | 38.3 | 58.7 |
| 60 cm | 700c | 57.5 | 73.0° | 20.0 | 71.8° | 58.3 | 27.8 | 7.0 | 45.0 | 5.2 | 5.9 | 107.4 | 82.6 | 39.2 | 62.5 |
| 63 cm | 700c | 60.5 | 72.8° | 23.0 | 72.3° | 60.3 | 27.8 | 7.0 | 45.0 | 5.2 | 5.6 | 108.6 | 85.4 | 40.0 | 65.5 |
Trek 520 2021 review
The Trek 520 is a well-regarded touring bike with a long-standing reputation for reliability and comfort over long distances. Here are some key points and thoughts about the Trek 520:
Design and Build
- Frame Material: The Trek 520 features a steel frame. It is durable and able to absorb road vibrations, providing a smoother ride. Steel frames are also easy to repair, an important consideration for touring.
- Geometry: The bike’s geometry is optimized for touring. It offers a more upright riding position that reduces strain on the back and shoulders during long rides.
Components
- Drivetrain: The bike typically comes equipped with a reliable Shimano drivetrain, which provides a wide range of gears suitable for handling various terrains, from flat roads to steep hills.
- Brakes: It usually features mechanical disc brakes, which offer strong stopping power and perform well in various weather conditions.
- Wheels and Tires: The wheels are designed to handle heavy loads. It essential for carrying panniers and gear. The tires are often wider, enhancing stability and comfort on different surfaces.
Touring-Specific Features
- Mounting Points: The Trek 520 includes multiple mounting points for racks, fenders, and bottle cages, making it highly customizable for carrying luggage and staying hydrated.
- Comfort: The bike is designed with long-distance comfort in mind, often featuring a comfortable saddle and ergonomic handlebars.
Performance and Ride Quality
- Stability: With its touring-specific design, the Trek 520 offers excellent stability, even when fully loaded with gear.
- Smooth Ride: The steel frame and wider tires contribute to a smooth and comfortable ride, crucial for long-distance touring.
- Versatility: It’s capable of handling various road conditions, including rougher paths and gravel roads, thanks to its robust build and versatile tire options.
Considerations
- Weight: Trek 520 is heavier compared to aluminum or carbon fiber bikes. That is because trek 520 is made of steel. While this adds to its durability and comfort, it may not be ideal for those prioritizing a lightweight bike.
- Cost: The initial investment can be relatively high, but considering the bike’s durability and performance, it’s often seen as a good value for serious touring cyclists.
Overall Impression
The Trek 520 is a classic touring bike known for its durability, comfort, and reliability. It’s an excellent choice for cyclists planning long-distance tours or those who value a bike that can handle heavy loads and various terrains. Its traditional design and quality components make it a favorite among touring enthusiasts. If you prioritize long-distance comfort, load-carrying capability, and a smooth ride, the Trek 520 is a solid option.
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