Trek 5200

Price Paid:  $1365.00 at eBay

Model Year:
2006

Favorite Ride:
Foothill Expressway

Bike Setup:
Dura Ace 10 drivetrain, Ultegra brakes, Velomax Circuit wheels, Bontrager Race X Lite fork and seat post, Race Lite handlebars, Fizik Arione seat,

Summary:
This bike is a replacement for the aluminum 2200 I've had since 2005. That bike, with the right component mix, made me a fan of Trek. It was damaged in a collision early this year, but I liked it well through 15,000 miles of riding that my first inclination was to restore it to its previous condition and keep it for a couple more years--but then I discovered that the head tube had become ovalized, so the frame needed to be replaced. A pristine 5200 with upgrades was being offered on eBay, and the final price was a bit less than the shop quoted to put my 2200 right again. I've been very happy with this bike, especially after swapping its Ksyrium Elite wheels for Velomax Circuits, which I had been riding before, and after upgrading the fork from a Bontrager Race to a Race X Lite. Initially, I found the ride harsh on rough pavement, but now it's quite smooth. The better fork makes a big difference there and will keep me from lusting after a Madone for a while.

Both of my Trek bikes have been a joy to ride, and I've never felt as if I was being held back at all--and I do like to go fast, for someone who doesn't race. Everything works well, and cornering is secure. One way in which this 5200 distinguishes itself from the earlier bike is that it feels steadier at speeds over 30 mph. The 2200 was fine, but this bike feels as if it's attached to the road.

Strengths:
Excellent handling, secure descents, smooth ride.

Weaknesses:
Original Bontrager Race fork (adequate, but this bike deserves better)

Similar Products Used:
Trek 2200

Price Paid:  $900.00 at Craigslist

Model Year:
2001

Favorite Ride:
Early morning with the wind at my back.

Bike Setup:
Spinergy FCC PBO carbon clincher wheels
Ultegra PD-6620 SL pedals

Summary:
This bike was my first attempt at riding a "nice" bike. From the first time I took it out, I could tell I was riding something special. This bike is fast, handles well, and the nude carbon finish looks great.

Strengths:
Lightweight, solid componentry, great value for the price.

Weaknesses:
The rider, and that burning desire to want a Madone now.

Similar Products Used:
Giant OCR 3

Price Paid:  $2500.00 at Corvallis Cyclery

Model Year:
2005

Favorite Ride:
Seattle to Portland

Bike Setup:
Stock bike as purchased.

Summary:
This is an amazing bike. I have ridden Bianchi, Specialized and Ciocc. The 5200 beats them all. I ride this on the road as weather permits in the pacific northwest, and indoors on a trainer when not. The ride is amazingly smooth - responsive in tight turns, when you need to put the hammer down and especially when climbing. The sizing is critical so make sure you take the time to get your bike sized for your weight/height/build. You will be amazed at the ride you get...will not be disappointed.

Strengths:
Responsiveness, power distribution and control.

Weaknesses:
Tires - Bontrager tires needed to be replaced after 2,000 miles.

Similar Products Used:
Bianchi, Specialized.

Price Paid:  $1450.00 at Pro Deal

Model Year:
2006

Summary:
This is a great bike. I've ridden 5000+ miles in all sorts of conditions: city riding, races, even a touring stint with a seat post rack. Mostly regular road riding, however.

It soaks up shocks wonderfully and handles like a dream. I've done only minor tune-ups over two years, and have never had a problem.

The wheels are a major weakness. I developed major cracks in the rim, and had to buy a new set of wheels after 4000 miles. It seems lots of bontrager wheels have this problem. Tires are so-so, had to be replaced after 2000+ miles. Definitely don't get Bontrager wheels, however.

Strengths:
Value.

Weaknesses:
Wheels are susceptible to cracks.

Similar Products Used:
Cannondale 2000

Price Paid:  $900.00 at Ottawa, used

Model Year:
2001

Favorite Ride:
Gatineau park & Ottawa path system

Bike Setup:
Trek 5200 OCLV black stock acc. Rolf vector rims,. upgrades: Continental attack/force tires. Felt carbon saddlepost. Sigma computer.

Summary:
I am new to road biking and a long time trail rider. I purchased the bike used, I am the 3rd owner. The day I purchased the bike it was raining and I couldn't test it. I decided to "go for it" on the strength of the review in this forum (thanks!) I freaking love this bike!! My first ride was going to be around the block to get a feel and get use to the toe clips. 40km later I was in love lol! It's smooth, light and fast as hell. 6 strides and your up to 30km keep pushing and you'll hit 50 on flat ground. The bumps are no where near as bad as I thought for a road bike and it corners way better than I'm ready for yet. Yesterday was my 3rd ride and first medium down hill. I toped out at 68km/h way faster than I should be going at this point but I didn't realize it till I was at the bottom :) so be warned this bike is fast! If your looking for a road bike get this one!!

Strengths:
Proven quality and durability. Light. Strong frame. Soft ride. Climbs well. Stable at high speed.

Weaknesses:
extremely tempting for thieves ;)