Trek Madone SLR 9 eTap (2021)
Trek Madone SLR 9 eTap 2021 is a top-tier road bike featuring cutting-edge technology, including IsoSpeed and SRAM eTap wireless shifting. Designed for elite performance, it boasts a lightweight carbon frame and aerodynamic enhancements for speed and efficiency.
Trek Madone SLR 9 eTap (2021) Review
The Trek Madone SLR 9 eTap (2021) is a top-tier road bike designed for elite cyclists and competitive riders who demand speed, precision, and advanced technology. Here are some key points and thoughts about the Trek Madone SLR 9 eTap (2021):
Design and Build
- Frame Material: The Madone SLR 9 eTap features Trek’s OCLV 700 Series carbon, providing an optimal balance of lightness, stiffness, and ride quality. This high-grade carbon fiber ensures superior performance and durability.
- Aerodynamic Design: The bike is designed with extensive aero shaping and integration. The Kammtail Virtual Foil (KVF) tube shapes reduce drag, making the Madone exceptionally fast. The integrated cockpit and hidden cables further enhance its aerodynamic profile.
Components
- Drivetrain: The bike is equipped with SRAM Red eTap AXS, a 12-speed wireless electronic groupset. This system offers precise, reliable, and effortless shifting, allowing for a wide range of gears to handle various terrains.
- Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes provide powerful and consistent stopping power with excellent modulation, crucial for high-speed descents and wet conditions.
- Wheels and Tires: The bike comes with Bontrager Aeolus XXX 6 carbon wheels, which are aerodynamic, lightweight, and stable. Paired with high-performance tires, these wheels offer excellent grip and rolling efficiency.
Performance and Ride Quality
- Speed and Efficiency: The Madone SLR 9 eTap is designed for ultimate speed and efficiency. Its aerodynamic frame, efficient power transfer, and advanced electronic shifting make it ideal for competitive racing and fast group rides. The SRAM Red eTap AXS groupset ensures smooth, precise, and reliable shifting.
- Handling: The bike offers sharp and responsive handling, crucial for navigating tight corners and descents. The stiff frame and aerodynamic design help maintain stability at high speeds. The hydraulic disc brakes provide additional confidence-inspiring stopping power and control.
- Comfort: Despite its focus on performance, the Madone SLR 9 eTap incorporates Trek’s IsoSpeed decoupler, which allows the seat tube to flex, providing additional comfort by absorbing road vibrations. This feature is especially beneficial on long rides.
Aesthetics
- Design: Trek’s attention to detail is evident in the Madone SLR 9 eTap’s sleek, aggressive design. The integration of components and internal cable routing contribute to its clean and modern appearance.
Considerations
- Aggressive Geometry: The Madone SLR 9 eTap’s geometry is geared towards performance and aerodynamics, resulting in a more aggressive riding position. This may not be ideal for riders seeking a more relaxed and upright position for extended comfort.
- Weight: While the carbon frame is lightweight, the addition of disc brakes and electronic components adds some weight compared to rim brake versions. However, the benefits in braking performance and shifting precision typically outweigh the slight increase in weight.
- Cost: As a high-performance road bike, the Madone SLR 9 eTap represents a significant investment. Riders should consider their needs and budget when choosing between this and other models. The advanced technology and performance features justify the price for serious cyclists.
Overall Impression
The Trek Madone SLR 9 eTap (2021) is a superbly crafted, high-performance road bike that excels in speed, aerodynamics, and advanced technology. Its carbon frame, SRAM Red eTap AXS electronic shifting, and hydraulic disc brakes make it an excellent choice for serious cyclists and competitive riders. The bike is ideal for fast-paced environments, making it suitable for racing, time trials, and spirited group rides. While its aggressive geometry and high cost might not suit every rider, those seeking a fast, responsive, and technologically advanced road bike will find much to appreciate in the Madone SLR 9 eTap. It offers a compelling combination of cutting-edge design, top-tier components, and exceptional performance.
Pros and Cons of Trek Madone SLR 9 eTap (2021)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Aerodynamic Design: The Trek Madone SLR 9 eTap features an advanced aerodynamic frame design that reduces drag and enhances speed, making it ideal for competitive racing. | High Price: This bike is very expensive, which may be prohibitive for many cyclists and represents a significant investment. |
| Electronic Shifting: Equipped with SRAM eTap electronic shifting, it provides precise and effortless gear changes, enhancing overall performance. | Weight: Although it is designed for performance, it is slightly heavier than some other high-end racing bikes, which may be a concern for weight-conscious riders. |
| Integrated Features: The bike includes integrated features like an adjustable IsoSpeed decoupler for comfort and an integrated handlebar/stem for aerodynamics. | Complex Maintenance: The advanced technology and components may require more specialized maintenance, which can be time-consuming and costly. |
Trek Madone SLR 9 eTap (2021) Specs
Trek Madone SLR 9 eTap Drivetrain
- Groupset: SRAM Red eTap AXS
- Front Derailleur: SRAM Red eTap AXS, direct mount
- Rear Derailleur: SRAM Red eTap AXS, max cog 33T
- Crankset: SRAM Red AXS Power Meter, 48/35, DUB spindle
- Bottom Bracket: SRAM DUB, threaded T47
- Cassette: SRAM Red XG-1290, 10-33, 12-speed
- Chain: SRAM Red D1, 12-speed
Trek Madone SLR 9 eTap Wheels and Tires
- Wheelset: Bontrager Aeolus XXX 6, OCLV carbon
- Wheel Size: 28″ (700C)
- Tires: Bontrager R4 320 Handmade Clincher, Hard-Case Lite, 320 tpi, 700x25c
Trek Madone SLR 9 eTap Control Components
- Shifters: SRAM Red eTap AXS, 12-speed
- Brakes: SRAM Red eTap AXS HRD (Hydraulic Disc)
- Handlebar: Trek Madone Adjustable Aero VR-CF, OCLV carbon
- Tape: Bontrager Supertack Perf
- Stem: Trek Madone Aero, hidden cable routing, 7 degrees
Trek Madone SLR 9 eTap Saddle and Seatpost
- Saddle: Bontrager Aeolus Pro, carbon rails, 145 mm width
- Seatpost: Madone Carbon Aero, integrated light mount, 25 mm offset
Trek Madone SLR 9 eTap (2021) Geometry
The Trek Madone SLR 9 eTap (2021) features an aerodynamic geometry with the adjustable IsoSpeed decoupler in the top tube for optimized comfort and performance. Available in various sizes to fit different riders.
Trek Madone SLR 9 eTap (2021) Sizing
Available frame sizes:
- 47
- 50
- 52
- 54
- 56
- 58
- 60