Trek 1.5

Price Paid:  $0.00

Model Year:
2007

Summary:
The bike is a 2008, but that option was not available. Overall I´m satisfied, but you should tighten the spokes before usage. The factory Bontrager SSR are a bit loose. The brakes should also be changed. Perhaps they become better in the summer.

Strengths:
Price-performance ratio seems OK to me.

Weaknesses:
The mix of gear components. Trek should go with one of the Shimano series.
Brakes.

Similar Products Used:
Earlier I had a Columbus Pinta, a local brand from Sweden. Was a bit more expensive, but the developement in the bike market since 2003 has come a long way.

Price Paid:  $725.00 at LBS

Favorite Ride:
New York City

Bike Setup:
Stock with double crankset + Cateye Wireless Micro (upgrades on the way...Neuvation R28 Aero 4 Wheelset with Michelin Pro 3's, Fizik Saddle & Full Ultegra Drivetrain.

Summary:
2008 Trek 1.5: Rode the Madone 5.2 and a Trek 1.2, but the 1.5 was the one for me right now. Took it out for an 8 mile run on her maiden voyage. It took me a bit to get used to such a responsive bike when compared to the older steel roadies I used to ride, but once i got it, it was like piloting a rocket. It went as fast as I could give it.

Strengths:
Frame, build, aestetics, bang for buck, upgradability.

Weaknesses:
Stock drivetrain (Der's) and heavy wheelset.

Similar Products Used:
Madone 5.2, Trek 1.2, Giant RS900 (vintage).

Price Paid:  $849.00 at LBS

Favorite Ride:
any

Bike Setup:
Trek 1.5 T
105 crank, front der., pedals
Tiagra rear der.
CatEye Strada Cyclocomputer

Summary:
I also am fairly new to cycling and this is my first road bike. I tested out the 2.1 and 2.3(suprisinigly heavy) Trek bikes and actually enjoy the feel of my 1.5 better. The components are obviously better on the 2.1 and 2.3, but I prefer the stability and overall feel of my 1.5. Being 6'6, 260 I was a little concerned about torque and twisting but so far, so good. Very good beginner/enthusiast road bike, definitely recommended.

Strengths:
Price. Overall good introductory bike.

Weaknesses:
Wheelset, especially for being 260 pounds, will upgrade soon.

Price Paid:  $989.00 at Martys Reliable

Bike Setup:
Stock

Summary:
As are many cyclist who purchased this bike, I'm new to cycling. I was thinking about the Specialized Allez, but the LBS did not have it in stock. I went back and tested the 2008 Trek 1.5 double, and I couldn't be happier with my choice. The Alpha Aluminum frame is extremely light. The bike climbs hills with no problem, and the Shimano derailleurs shift smooth and easy. The Bontrager seat is surprisingly comfortable. Great entry level bike. Anyone looking to get into biking, can't go wrong with the Trek 1.5.

Strengths:
Light Frame
comfortable

Weaknesses:
If there is a weakness, it might be the straps on the pedals. Difficult to get into while riding at first, but after a couple of rides, it was no problem.

Price Paid:  $950.00 at Spokes

Model Year:
2007

Favorite Ride:
W&OD Trail in No. Va.

Bike Setup:
no upgrades aside from pedals

Summary:
It's been a perfect entry-level racer. I especially enjoy zooming by tri bikes. And it looks great. I got the triple, but I never use those extra gears and probably should've just stuck with the double.

Strengths:
The rare 64cm frame came in handy for my 6'7" height.