Trek 4.5 ('09) - worth it?
themightyw
Posts: 409
Hi folks
I've always loved the look of the Trek Madone 4.5 09 version, and since they won't be around for much longer I'm contemplating taking the plunge and picking one up (£1.5k).
Frame TCT Carbon
Fork Bontrager Race Lite, carbon w/E2 aluminum steerer; SpeedTrap compatible
Wheels Bontrager Race
Tires Bontrager Race Lite, 700x23c
Shifters Shimano 105 STI, 10 speed
Front Derailleur Shimano 105
Rear Derailleur Shimano Ultegra
Crank Shimano 105 50/39/30
Cassette Shimano 105 11-25 or 12-27 (triple), 10 speed
Saddle Bontrager Race
Seat Post Bontrager Carbon, Infinite Angle Adjustability
Stem Bontrager Race Lite, 7 degree, 31.8mm
Handlebars Bontrager Race VR, 31.8mm
It's the compact version I'm looking at and I'll be taking it out for a test ride in the next few days. I'd be upgrading from a Trek 1.5. I'll be using the bike for varied cycling, anything from quick 15mile jaunts in the evening to potential 100mile pluses. Won't be doing any racing, more for audaxes and pleasure. Roads around me are pretty hilly, and fairly bumpy though I know them well.
Any advice appreciated!
I've always loved the look of the Trek Madone 4.5 09 version, and since they won't be around for much longer I'm contemplating taking the plunge and picking one up (£1.5k).
Frame TCT Carbon
Fork Bontrager Race Lite, carbon w/E2 aluminum steerer; SpeedTrap compatible
Wheels Bontrager Race
Tires Bontrager Race Lite, 700x23c
Shifters Shimano 105 STI, 10 speed
Front Derailleur Shimano 105
Rear Derailleur Shimano Ultegra
Crank Shimano 105 50/39/30
Cassette Shimano 105 11-25 or 12-27 (triple), 10 speed
Saddle Bontrager Race
Seat Post Bontrager Carbon, Infinite Angle Adjustability
Stem Bontrager Race Lite, 7 degree, 31.8mm
Handlebars Bontrager Race VR, 31.8mm
It's the compact version I'm looking at and I'll be taking it out for a test ride in the next few days. I'd be upgrading from a Trek 1.5. I'll be using the bike for varied cycling, anything from quick 15mile jaunts in the evening to potential 100mile pluses. Won't be doing any racing, more for audaxes and pleasure. Roads around me are pretty hilly, and fairly bumpy though I know them well.
Any advice appreciated!
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Comments
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If it's any help here's the 2010 version:
http://www.evanscycles.com/products/tre ... e-ec019723
BUT: It's over £100 more expensive, I don't think the wheels are as good and you get TIAGRA brakes :shock:
Those people who thought I was a nutcase to buy a £1500 Van Nicholas Chinook for all-year use last December (when the prices weren't shooting through the roof) are probably licking their wounds and counting their losses :shock:
So yes, if you like the look of the 2009 model, GO FOR IT
Though remember that not many ride carbon bikes in the winter - they don't want their pretty little rocket ships getting dirty. If you've got a winter hack lying around made form alu or steel, it'll still have a use for a good time yet. Heck, you wouldn't have wanted to ride on a carbon today in Merseyside :shock:0 -
I love the look of the Trek Madone 4.5 2010 - and that has inferior specs (as PianoMan also points out) to the version you're interested in (although I'm a sucker for the red and black paintwork).
I'd say go for it. \o/ Suckers out there are paying 10 times as much for crappy cars.0 -
Saw the Madone 4.5 yesterday and the colours are lovely.0
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If I were you, I'd go for it. I've been very pleased with my 2008 Madone 4.5 that I've been riding for a year now. Very comfortable for long distances and very responsive when needed.0
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I bought the 08 4.7 last year and been really pleased with. Get the 09, the new models are such value for money. The 09 4.7 has gone up £300 for nothing compared to 08, not even a new paint job.0
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I got the 4.7 08 also, got it heavily discounted earlier this year.
As for riding carbon in winter i'll be riding mine all winter, you have to keep any bike clean through winter and i race my carbon hardtail mtb any weather.
Carbon doesn't rust and is very strong, the components on the good bike or hack will have to be washed off after a salty road ride in winter.
I'd go for it and enjoy it.
Is it pro fit or performance fit?
Mine is a performance fit and found it a little tall in the front end compared to what i as used too, so took all the spacers out to lower them stem and got the steerer cut, if i'd of known the difference i may have looked for a pro fit trek.0 -
My LBS have agreed to upgrade the brakes to full 105 and add in a few bits and bobs (e.g. colour matched bottle cage etc) so I think I'm going to take the plunge
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be careful shimano brake blocks aren't reliable. either koolstop or swissstop will give confidence in braking.0
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Ah ok, will mention that to them. The stock brake levers are unbranded, iirc, so I hoped the 105 levers would at least be an improvement there. Thanks.0
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What size do you need? My shop has the 2009 model for £1350 in 54cm and 56cm.
The 2010 model is VILE!!!!!0 -
It's a 56 I'm looking for...
And yes... I really dislike the 2010...
Hrrrm very interesting! Wonder how much your local shop would charge for postage... Though if there's only £50 or so in it total I'm inclined to go for my LBS, as I can always pop in there for help. Not sure how much a set of 105 front of rear calipers would cost - prob £70 or so? Appreciate you flagging it up mate.0 -
Wouldn't be allowed to post it.... Trek agreement forbids it. They all have to be collected from store.0
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Looks a nice bike, i really like mine.0
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Ordered! Arrives in a few days! Now just have the pleasure of ordering a few wee extras like pedals etc to complete my new steed - can't wait!0
