trek bikes touring

Best touring bikes 2024: tourers for adventures on two wheels

Although there are many bikes capable of cycle trips, the best touring bikes remain the optimal tool for longer journeys

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Our pick of the best touring bikes

What to look for in a touring bike.

The allure of the open road is one of cycling’s enduring themes. Touring by bicycle allows for this on a grand scale, travelling for several days, often in far-flung places with all your kit strapped to the bike. Of course, micro-adventures closer to home can be just as much fun and still keep the spirit of adventure alive.

Whether you’re planning an expedition abroad or fancy exploring more local roads in far greater detail, a touring bike is the ideal tool for the job. Designed for cycling long distances in comfort, the bikes should be both stable and reliable in their handling, as well as providing all the mounts you need for pannier racks and bags and mudguards . Self-sufficiency is one of the tenets of cycling touring, so the bikes are usually designed with ease of maintenance in mind, too.

The good news for touring cyclists is that the range of bikes available to cater for their needs has grown substantially in the last few years.

In this guide, we've rounded up the more traditional options. If you're thinking of going off-road, perhaps investigate gravel orientated options in our buying guide here , and if you plan to go quick and travel light, see endurance road bikes here .

There's more on what to look for in a touring bike below - but first, here are our top picks of the best touring bikes.

Genesis Tour de Fer 30 touring bike

Specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

This is a bike that's been created exclusively to provide a comfortable and practical ride for a touring cyclist. The Reynolds 725 Heat-Treated Chromoly frame promises a springy ride and an incredibly strong base.

The 160mm rotor mechanical disc brakes are a more modern introduction with a nod to practicality, especially in the wet. Although we’ve found mechanical TRP Spyre brake calipers aren’t quite as powerful or as easy to modulate as a hydraulic brakeset, they are easy to adjust and highly reliable – perfect for a long-distance tour.

A 10-speed Shimano Tiagra drivetrain is about right for a bike at this price point, but in our experience, a 50/39/30 crankset provides gears that are just a bit too big for cycle touring – particularly over hilly terrain. 

But you can always swap this out for a smaller ringed option down the line. We find that with a cassette of 11-34t, going for a granny ring of 26t is generally a good bet.

We’ve always found Schwalbe’s Marathon tyres to be highly puncture resistant and with a good wear rate. In 35c, these are capable of traversing broken roads and tamer gravel, but if you’re planning on spending a large amount of time off road you would want something a bit plumper.

Handily, this bike come with many of the accessories we think are a must. Firstly, mudguards, but also dynamo powered front and rear lights, bottle cages and the Tubus pannier racks front and rear.

Surly Disc Trucker

A spin-off of Surly's much-revered Long Haul Trucker, the Disc Trucker keeps many of the much-loved versatility and can-do attitude, but this time with the addition of mechanical disc brakes and thru-axles – unlike the Genesis Tour de Fer 30 which has disc brakes and QR axles.

Opinion is a little split on thru-axles for touring – if you have any catastrophic issues with your hubs in more remote countries, you're unlikely to be able to find a replacement locally. That said, those kind of hub issues are quite rare and if it does happen you can always get a replacement sent out. For the improved alignment between the rotor and the caliper, we think the benefits outweigh the negatives.

A multitude of braze-on mount means the Disc Trucker is capable of running front and rear bags, full-coverage fenders, two water bottles, a spare spoke and even a pump peg. However, in not coming with these accessories, you will have to factor these into the cost, making the value for money a little less than the Genesis Tour de Fer 30 or the Kona Sutra.

With both 26" and 700c wheel build options available, the Disc Trucker can be as adventurous as you choose. The 26" (in sizes 42-58cm) is capable of taking up to 2.1" tires, while the 700c version (in sizes 56-64cm) has room for up to 42mm tires — both with fenders.

Although touring bikes generally do have a more relaxed position than a typical road bike, designed as they are for comfortably covering long distances, the Disc Trucker does have a particularly high front end. This isn't necessarily a problem, but if you are coming from a road cycling background, you may find just such an elevated position a little uncomfortable 

Made from a CroMoly Steel, the Disc Trucker comes equipped with a Shimano Alivio/Sora drivetrain, with the 48/36/26 triple Alivio crankset and 11-34 9-speed Shimano cassette provides a gearing range we find to be a great balance between top-end speed and low-end winching – particularly if you’re planning on maxing out the rider and kit weight limit of 161kg (355lb).

Kona Sutra All Road touring bike

The gloss black Sutra is made from Kona 's Cromoly steel frame and is kitted out with smooth-rolling Schwalbe Marathon Mondial 700x40c tires on WTB STi23 rims, which are now tubeless-compatible.

The current model has replaced the previous Shimano Deore 3x10 drivetrain with 2x10 chainset from Shimano's GRX gravel range. It's a move that's unlikely to please the touring purists. The 46/30t chainrings are matched with a 11-36t cassette, which sees the bike's gearing range reduced. It should still see you up the steep climbs, just perhaps not in as much comfort as before.

Gone too are the bar-end shifters, replaced with Shimano 10-speed Tiagra road shifters. Again it's quite the change, moving the Sutra from a traditional tourer into a far more modern interpretation. It reduces some of the bike's previous mechanical simplicity, which is appealing if your tours are long and overseas. That said the move to STI levers will appeal if you're used to riding a regular bike.

Another nod to modernity are the TRP disc brakes, which are blend of mechanical and hydraulic, and the frame's thru-axles.

With a Brooks B17 leather saddle, mudguards and a front pannier rack finishing off this tourer, this good-looking bike oozes style.

The leather Brooks saddle does require a bit more care than what you might be used to – it need to be kept covered from heavy rain and needs a semi regular application of cream to keep the leather supple. But by functioning essentially as a hammock, it is exceptionally comfortable and only gets better over time as it moulds to your shape – it wears in, rather than out..

Ridgeback Voyage

Classic styling never goes out of date - and the vintage-looking Voyage has got it by the bucket load, though a redesign means that modern tech has not been overlooked.

The Ridgeback Voyage uses Reynolds 520 tubing for the frame, with a CroMoly steel fork. A rack and full mudguards (fenders) come as standard. 

The Shimano 48/36/26t triple chainset paired with an 11-34 cassette offers a good range of gearing although with relatively large jumps between the gears due to having just nine gears at the rear. 

We don’t find this to be too much of an issue when taking it steady on a cycle tour but would prefer something a little tighter if multiple very high mileage days are planned.

Shifting and braking is taken care of by Shimano's reliable Sora levers and Tektro cantilever rim brakes. The latter certainly help make the Voyage a maintenance-friendly machine - easy to maintain and find replaces for, even in remote locations - although disc brakes may be a preferred choice for all-weather tourers.

Alex rims with a high spoke count are pretty dependable, even if not the flashiest and fitted with 32c Continental Contact tyres, they can handle a little off road, but are best suited to the tarmac.  

Trek 520 disc touring bike

Constructed from Trek's CroMoly steel, the frame has been designed around disc brakes and fitted with a rack and fenders mounts.

The Bontrager Affinity rims are tubeless-ready, which might be worth setting up if you want a bit of a faster ride when commuting. But for long-term touring it’s generally best to stick with inner tubes so as to avoid the added complication of sealant drying out. Bontrager’s 38c H1 hard-case Ultimate tyres offer good puncture resistance themselves.

The drivetrain is a mixture of Shimano parts with Sora shifters. The crankset is a triple, with 48/36/26 tooth chainrings, and the cassette is an 11-36 so you'll have ample gears when the road goes up. TRP Spyre C 2.0 mechanical disc mechanical discs look after stopping.

However, with only nine sprockets on the cassette, the jumps between the gears are a little large, as with the Ridgeback Voyage. But if this does cause you an issue, and if you find yourself not using all of the gears, you could fit a tighter range cassette for smaller jumps.

Like the Genesis Tour de Fer 30, the wheel axles are QR, which can make getting the rotor and caliper aligned properly a little more difficult than with a thru-axle system

The overall weight comes in at 14.26 kg / 31.4 lbs in a size 57, which is lighter than some of the more traditional options.

Cube Travel Pro Trapeze touring bike

Cube offers its Travel Pro tourer in both a traditional crossbar and step-through frame design, with the latter making mounting and dismounting this robust, aluminum bike easy and convenient.

The convenience theme is carried through much of the bike. It's equipped with a Shimano Nexus internal hub gear system and a Gates CDN Belt Drive system which offers super low maintenance compared with a more traditional chain and derailleur system.

With this eight-speed hub, the jumps between the gears is a little larger and the overall range a little lower than you can get with a derailleur system, and it's not quite as efficient. But that said, if you're planning on taking it steady on your cycle tour, those points are pretty immaterial compared to the benefit of much lower maintenance.  

There's plenty of clearance for extra-wide tires and the wheels are currently wrapped in Schwalbe's Marathon Almotion 29x2.15in rubber.

Finishing off this functional tourer are full-length fenders, an adjustable CUBE stand Pro kickstand, a Knog Oi bell, lights (front and rear), and a semi-integrated carrier for pannier bags; these features will have you covered for any adventure.

Salsa Marrakesh

The Marrakesh is designed to take you touring wherever you wish — including a trip around the world if necessary. The frame is built from 4130 CroMoly tubing and has a serious array of mounts. There's room for up to five bottle cages thanks to extra fork mounts plus it comes fitted with front and rear racks. There's even a mount to carry a spare spoke.

Elsewhere there are bar-end shifters and a 3x9-speed Shimano Alivio groupset. The gearing range is designed to get you up the steep stuff even when fully loaded thanks to 48/36/36 triple chainring paired with an 11-36t cassette. The shifters also make roadside maintenance a little easier.

Its world-touring credentials are further aided by its generous tire clearance - 700 x 40mm even with mudguards (fenders), and comes stock with Maxxis Roamer 42mm tires. This means you should eat up the miles in comfort even when the road gets rough.

It's difficult to lay out specific criteria when it comes to choosing a touring bike because the beauty of touring is that it can be whatever you want it to be – there is no single best touring bike for everyone, what is best for you depends on the type of tours you want to go on. However, there are key elements to consider when selecting your two-wheeled riding buddy, which will enable you to get the best touring bike for you.

Touring bike frame

If you're planning a longer trip, and intend the bike to be used primarily for such adventures, then the resilience and comfort of steel is a sensible choice. As such, most of the best touring bikes will feature this metal. The amount you're willing to invest will dictate the weight, strength and character of the steel you end up with.

When looking at steel touring bikes, expect to see the word 'Chromoly' a lot. This is a form of low alloy steel that is used when strength is particularly important. It takes its name from two of the primary alloying (mixing of metals) elements used: “chromium” and “molybdenum”.

If you're planning on using the bike for touring and other duties: club runs, commutes, shorter rides where speed might be more in your interest, consider aluminum or carbon .

Bikes suitable for touring will have a relaxed geometry: a shorter top tube and taller stack to put the rider in a more relaxed position. The wheelbase will be longer, to create a feeling of stability. You'll also notice that the chainstays are longer - this means panniers can be mounted without a chance of clipping your heels and it allows for better distribution when panniers are full.

Touring bike wheels

Elsewhere in the cycling world, we talk about low weight and aerodynamics when it comes to bicycle wheels. And sure, if you're aiming to break a world record on your cycle tour then those are probably still very important areas to consider.

However, if you mainly want to get to somewhere rather far away, and you'd like to arrive there with a wheel that's still true and contains the same number of spokes you left with, then a strong wheel is what you desire. Look for a higher spoke count that you might opt for on a speedy road bike.

The best touring bikes will generally have at least 36 spokes per wheel, tandem touring bike can even go as high as 48. 

Touring bike tyres

It's incredible how much difference a set of tyres can make to a bike. The frame can be designed with comfort top of the agenda, but put on some narrow rubber shoes and pump them up to the wrong tyre pressure and you'll be bumping about all over the road.

Most touring cyclists will want to go for wider tyres - 28mm+, when compared with their road racing cousins. The further off the beaten track you want to go, the wider they should be. If you plan on tackling some light trails, look for 32mm+.

Touring bike brakes

Traditionally, touring bikes had rim brakes and these will certainly do the job for most road-based tours. However, disc brakes do provide far superior stopping power, especially in the wet, and they are now more common than rim brake on the best touring bikes

Since disc brakes don't rely upon the rim to bring the bike to a halt, they also reduce the risk of the rims becoming worn through debris building up on the pads.

Add in that many touring cyclists are carrying luggage, therefore adding to the overall load, powerful brakes that work in all weathers do seem like a sensible addition. However, not everyone likes the appearance of disc brakes on a traditional steel machine and the pads are a tiny bit harder to replace and set up, which is worth considering if you're maintaining your bike on the road.

Luggage and Lights on a touring bike

A purpose-built touring bike will come with pannier racks fitted, as well as fenders and perhaps even built-in lights. These all add to the overall weight, but if the intended purpose requires them, it's no bother.

If you plan to use the bike for other purposes, like group rides, then you may want to look for a bike that comes with eyelets for guards and racks, so that you can remove and fit them as and when.

There's a lot of clever luggage solutions around these days, such as frame bags and oversized saddlebags , that allow you to do away with panniers if you'd rather distribute weight differently.

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Michelle Arthurs-Brennan the Editor of Cycling Weekly website. An NCTJ qualified traditional journalist by trade, Michelle began her career working for local newspapers. She's worked within the cycling industry since 2012, and joined the Cycling Weekly team in 2017, having previously been Editor at Total Women's Cycling. Prior to welcoming her daughter in 2022, Michelle raced on the road, track, and in time trials, and still rides as much as she can - albeit a fair proportion indoors, for now.

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Ex-WorldTour pro enjoying better pacing and a 'nicer time' after winning two out of two TTs this season

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Trek 1120 Review: Footsteps of Giants

The Trek 1120 follows in the same 29+ tracks that many bikepacking-specific rigs forged ahead of it, but this bike cuts its own trail with an innovative front rack, a thoughtfully designed rear harness system, and surprising trail prowess… all at a lighter weight than we expected. We’ve been quietly testing one over the last few months; here’s the full review.

With additional photos and insight by Ryan Sigsbey

With multiple companies creating bikepacking-specific bikes around the 29+ platform, it’s as if bikepacking has an official tire size. Bear in mind, big wagon wheels aren’t for everyone, and there are plenty of 27.5+ bikepacking rigs too, but it’s no surprise that this legacy continues to thrive… for plenty of reasons we’ve already covered within this site. It all started with the Krampus in 2012, and then came the Surly ECR , which was sort of the first big-tired purpose built bikepacking bike. It was only a matter of time before others created variations on the theme: The Chumba Ursa 29+ , the Carver Gnarvester , Salsa’s Deadwood and Woodsmoke , the Bombtrack Beyond ADV , and the Why Wayward . There are a few others as well, and probably more to come.

• Frame/Fork: Aluminum/Carbon
• Seatpost: 31.6mm
• Bottom Bracket: PressFit 92
• Hub specs: 148 x 12mm (R); 110x15mm (F)
• Max tire: 29×3″
• Weight (L w/racks): 29.4 lbs (13.3 kg)
• Price: $2,499

Following suit, the 1120 was a natural progression for Trek. The Wisconsin based titan has a longstanding history of making bikes in the adventure travel and touring category. First the 520 and 720 touring bikes became classics back in the early 80s. Then Trek found success with its more recent gravel and dirt-drop tourer, the Trek 920 . It only made sense to add a couple hundred to the naming schema for a big-tired bikepacking rig. And this they did with a bang, creating a 29+ rig that is quite a departure from all the rest, even their own Stache .

Before we dig in, let me clarify the nature of this review. I’ve had this bike since August, but an injury/surgery/recovery kept me off of it for a couple of months. Then I got about a dozen rides in with it and had a bit of a relapse… from which I am still recovering. So, I enlisted the help of Ryan Sigsbey , a friend, photographer, bikepacker, and creator of the Trans-WNC . Ryan took it for a week or so, gave it a few rides and took it on a bikepacking trip to add his perspective. As such, this isn’t a long term review. Instead you’ll find an in depth analysis and a couple different perspectives regarding our experiences using it, comparisons, technical details… and, as usual, plenty of photos (don’t miss the new carousel galleries).

Newfangled Racks

There’s a lot to talk about with this bike, so let’s start with the 1120’s two most prominent features, the bright orange tangles of metal at its fore and aft. These proprietary aluminum racks provide a very stable platform for strapping all sorts of gear. They also eliminate the need for a standard seat pack and handlebar roll by offering innovative means of attaching equipment and drybags to the bike. In general, they allow the bike to carry more stuff than with a standard bikepacking setup.

The Front ‘Cradle’ Rack

Load capacity 7.03kg/15.5 lbs | Weight 441g The Trek 1120’s unique fork-mounted front rack is designed to cradle a large dry bag or an assortment of other cylindrical objects — think tents, fishing rod tubes, sleeping mats, etc. This places the load just a scoach lower than a conventional handlebar roll, which, in theory, lowers the center of gravity and increases stability. The rack is incredibly user-friendly, very stable, and does a great job preventing bag and cable interference, which is its biggest innovation. It also eliminates the need for handlebar straps, which frees up valuable real estate on the bars. All the same, the chunky aluminum rack adds about 441 grams that wouldn’t be there with a handlebar mounted bag.

The Trek 1120 front rack is heftier and sturdier feeling than I expected. Constructed from heavy duty aluminum tubing welded to a thick mounting plate, the rack attaches to the Carbon Adventure Fork with four beefy hex bolts in a unique trapezoidal pattern. When attached it feels rock solid. After initial use and inspection, I would certainly trust it on a big trip. One of its most interesting features are the protruding columns on the underside and back of the rack (these are also present on the rear rack). These rounded pegs serve as strap guides that work really well at keeping the straps from sliding and the load in place.

Ryan and I stumbled upon what we think is the ideal system for this rack. The main bag, as shown, is the large dry bag from a Salsa Anything Cradle Kit. It’s a pretty big bag that can hold up to 15 liters, according to Salsa. The Revelate Salty Roll would work equally as well. To cinch it down we used two 32” Voile Straps which provided a very secure and tight fit. Honestly, this is probably the most stable feeling system I’ve ever tried on the front of a bike. That being said, the options really are endless with this rack. I could even see wrapping up a Hyperlite day pack and using that as the roll, or a combination of items such as a tent and another roll bag.

Ryan: The front rack is very straightforward, and with the use of a dry bag and a couple Voile straps, lashing down your load couldn’t get any easier. There are some nice details on the rack to keep the straps right where you want them. The rack is pretty beefy, and maybe a little overkill for most loads, however it provides a very solid platform.

The Carbon Adventure Fork

Rake 51mm | Axle-to-crown 510mm The suspension corrected fork is called the Trek 1120 Adventure HCM Carbon Fork. It is made up of a carbon fork and crown with a bonded alloy steerer tube. The fork features 110mm BOOST spacing as well as triple accessory bosses on either side and rack mounts just above the dropout.
 A lot of people have been asking about this fork… specifically whether it will be available to purchase on its own. Right now the ‘Trek Carbon Adventure Fork’ is the only carbon fork being made with triple bottle mounts and 110mm BOOST spacing. Apparently the fork is available through Trek dealers as a crash replacement. But, it’s not going to be marketed, meaning that it is not likely there will be too much stock available at any given moment. The suggested retail prices are $399.99 for the fork and $131.99 for the rack. Specs are as follows: rake is 51mm, axle-to-crown is 510mm. Part numbers are 561208 for the fork and 560997 for the front rack.

As far as performance, the fork is stiff as expected. It’s not as bump absorbent as the noodly MTB carbon forks of old or many of the modern gravel forks. However, I would expect this from an expedition worthy MTB fork. And, it does soak up some of the chatter.

One thing Trek missed in their design is the addition of dynamo wire routing. However, the fork has two tiny drain holes, one on each side, that could perhaps be drilled out to allow routing through the fork with a top-cap charger such as the Sinewave Reactor. Of course, this would void the warranty, and I have no idea if it is definitely possible. Otherwise, the carbon fork has all the right features, including triple mount bosses, rack mounts above the dropout, and there is even a threaded hole at the back of the fork crown to mount a fender.

Rear Rack and Harness System

Load Capacity 12Kg/25lbs | Weight 695g (Rack), 271g (per harness) The rear rack is quite interesting as well. Unlike most rear carriers, it only mounts to the upper portion of the 1120’s seat stays via four bolts, two welded bolt mounts that are threaded perpendicular to the stays and two long bolts that screw directly into mounts on the stays. Overall the rack feels solid and generally secure. One might assume that the upper bolt mounts would be subject to stress, but it seems like the longer bolts do more of the work. Two long bolts came loose during Ryan’s bikepack, but we think they might not have been torqued properly to begin with. He was able to easily tighten the screws and everything stayed secure.

The 1120 comes with two drybag harnesses designed in tandem with the rear rack. Each one secures to the rack with two wide velcro straps and four compression webbing straps that also serve to batten down the load. The harnesses seem very well made from what appears to be hypalon with a plastic hard backer and barstitched webbing with metal compression buckles. Each fits a dry bag ranging from 5 to 10 liters in volume (8L recommended). The setup is similar to having two small rear panniers — albeit far more taut and secure — and allows a bit more packing space than that of a traditional seat pack. This concept was developed to clear the space between the seat and the top of the rack, facilitating the use of a dropper seat post… or for smaller riders who simply can’t fit a large bag between the saddle and the top of a 29+ wheel/tire. It also lowers the weight that would normally be carried in a large cantilevered seat pack. When the real estate atop the rack is included, this system can double the load potential of a more “traditional” seatpack setup. However, with the rack and harnesses weighing in at 1237g/2.7lbs, it more than doubles the weight of a seat pack such as the Revelate Terrapin (539 grams).

As mentioned, the rear rack also provides an angled upper platform that’s useful for strapping down cylindrical items such as a tent or sleeping pad, without interfering with the 1120’s 125mm Bontranger dropper seatpost. Ryan lashed on a 5 liter Sea To Summit Big River Dry Bag containing spare warm clothes and such, and I tried it with my Big Agnes Fly Creek UL1 .

Ryan: The rear harness system was a little finicky at first and wasn’t nearly as easy as the front. The harnesses velcro to the sides of the rack to keep them temporarily in place. Then, once you stuff a dry bag in the harness, you have to loop the webbing around the rack and hook the buckle in. Do this to the other 3 straps and then your all set. It takes a little bit to get used to, but after unloading and reloading a few times I got the hang of it. I was using 6 and 8 liter dry bags and they seemed to fit pretty well. Anything bigger might be a squeeze. There’s extra space to attach a tent, sleeping pad or an additional dry bag to the top of the rack as well.

While Out Bikepacking

Although I wasn’t able to take the 1120 out on a multi-day bikepacking trip (for reasons mentioned earlier), I did set it up in various configurations and even rode it partially loaded a couple of times. The first thing that stood out to me is how tight, solid and stable the luggage systems are. The front rack is clutch. There would be little love lost if I could use it in lieu of all other handlebar harnesses or rolls from here on out. It’s nice to not worry about handlebar straps, or interference with cables and other such accessories. That said, with the proprietary mounts, this rack isn’t an option with a suspension fork, or any other fork for that matter. It’s also pretty specific to roll-style bags or cylindrical items that can’t be opened on the go.

The rear rack and harness system is also quite sturdy. It is probably one of the most movement/rattle/wag free systems I’ve used, the closest being the Porcelain Rocket Mr. Fusion . It’s clear that Trek’s engineers did their homework and focussed on creating a system that moves the weight down, while still maintaining the bike’s agility, maneuverability, and dexterity on tight and twisty singletrack.

Ryan: Since the racks are mounted much lower on the bike than a normal seat pack or front roll bag it really brings the center of gravity down and provides a more stable ride. That coupled with the dropper post means you can really lean into turns and keep up speed. These features also help to keep the bike rubber side down on steep descents. In addition, the solid rear rack eliminates any tail wag that can sometimes be experienced with standard seat bags. Generally that isn’t a big deal, but with this setup it’s removed altogether.

Trek 1120 vs Surly ECR

When I saw early photos of the 1120, I immediately wondered whether it has a similar geometry and feel to the Surly ECR, the original 29+ bikepacking beast. The answer is yes, to some extent… but it’s also quite different. Comparing the large ECR with the 19.5” 1120, the ECR is shorter in both directions. The 1120’s stack height and reach are a little bigger — 642/451mm respectively — than the ECR at 633/420. But, the Trek is also steeper overall with a seat tube angle of 73.5° and the head tube at 70.3°, whereas the ECR’s angles are 72.5 and 70°. Minor differences, but I was generally happy that the seat tube angle is steeper on the 1120. This, in effect, lengthens the 1120. So even with a 21mm shorter chainstay (425mm when the wheel is slid forward in the Stranglehold dropouts), at 112.7cm, the Trek’s overall wheelbase is still 1.6cm longer than that of the ECR. Otherwise, they have matching effective top tube lengths, and the BB drop on the 1120 is 5mm higher than the ECR’s at 80mm. This is a welcome difference, as the ECR is generally limited to 3” tires due its unusually low BB.

Honestly, I thought the 1120 felt similar to the ECR as far as its stance. However, it does seem a bit more nimble and spritely on the trail… probably owed to its lighter weight (approximately 2-3 pounds lighter, with racks) and shorter chainstay (and that was at the long setting for the dropout).

Trek 1120 vs The Stache

The trek 1120 as a trail bike.

Trek bills the 1120 as a touring bike. But judging by its the dropper seat post, short chainstay, and hydro brakes, they also want it to be able to double as a trail bike. Pondering the Trek 1120 as a dedicated trail bike will probably not be relevant to a lot of folks. If you can’t imagine slinging a rigid bike around on your favorite trails, then that’s that. However, a lot of people are looking for one bike to do it all, and the 1120 will likely be tasked as such. I could even envision some folks swapping the fork for a suspension fork until a big bikepacking trip is in order.

When considering 1120 as a quiver killer, the main thing that it has going for it is its relatively steep seat tube, low BB, big cushy tires, and of course, the short chainstay. As mentioned, at 425mm it’s only a hair longer than that of the Stache. However, the relatively steep head tube doesn’t exactly match. I personally would have preferred it a little slacker than 70°. That said, even with the Stranglehold dropout in the back position, the bike felt surprisingly stable during the few occasions I took it rack-free down local descents, such as the Black Mountain Trail and Ridgeline. The 1120 felt generally comfortable and capable for a rigid bike, which usually means slowing things down anyways. I don’t think this is a do-it-all bike for mountain bikers who have a discerning palate when it comes to trail geometry, but it’s certainly capable. It’s also worth noting that if you were planning on swapping a suspension fork when not in bikepacking mode, you could theoretically employ a Cane Creek Angleset to make that HTA a little slacker.

As far as the frame material, the Trek 1120 frame is welded from Trek’s own Alpha Platinum Aluminum. As Skyler found with the Kona Big Honzo , it’s hard to pinpoint the difference between aluminum and steel when there are 3” tires separating the frame from the bumps. The bike is stiff. And it’s also very light. The combination of these two traits makes it feel pretty responsive for a 29+ bike.

One thing I’ve always hated about aluminum is that ‘tink’ sound that randomly happens when a seatpost or something else is loose. Steel is far more dull and less obtrusive, and carbon just sounds like something is creaking. Aluminum can kind of be unnerving, IMO. I noticed the tink a couple of times on the 1120. Not sure exactly where it was coming from, but it went away after a while. With aluminum, it always helps to keep bolts and fittings greased and tight.

Ryan: As a newcomer to the plus tire world, I was amazed at how the tires absorb much of the small trail chatter. Cruising over small roots and rocks was a breeze and as long as I kept up momentum, the bike felt as if it would roll over most anything.

The more upright position, rigid fork and backswept handlebars are certainly features that lean more towards an off-road adventure bike than a trail slaying ninja like it’s bigger brother, the Stache. The bike does have a more nimble feel than I expected and handled a smorgasbord of terrain with a fair amount of ease.

The 20mm longer chainstays [while in the back position as we kept it] and the almost 2 degree steepened head tube angle in comparison to the Stache give the bike a much more stable feel, one that also provides more comfort on longer days in the saddle.

A few other frame highlights include a tapered head tube, internal derailleur and dropper post routing, and Trek’s own Stranglehold dropouts which allows the chain stay length to be fine tuned from 525-540mm. According to Trek, this also means that you could run a compatible 12 x 142 Rohloff hub.

The Trek 1120’s build, as expected, has a selection of Bontranger components. However, Trek made some nice choices in the bike’s bombproof drivetrain featuring mostly Shimano SLX components with a wide-range 11-46 11spd cassette paired with a RaceFace 30t chainring. This provides a granny gear with about 19.9 gear inches for loaded travel even with the voluminous 29×3″ Chupacabra tires.

There were a couple components I didn’t like. First off the Bontrager Crivitz handlebars… Unlike a lot of folks, I am just not a comfort/sweep bar convert. Even if I were, at 690mm, these bars aren’t wide enough. I am also not sold on the Sun Ringle Rims/Chupacabra combo. Both are fine while riding. While they came set up tubeless, I broke the seal when testing the new Wolf Tooth tire lever tool. It was not easy to reset the bead, to say the least. That leads me to think the tolerance isn’t quite tight enough on the rim, or the Chupa is off. If anyone has any thoughts on this, please leave a comment.

The spec also might be a little confusing to some. On one hand, with an innovative rack system, sweep bars, distance-oriented geometry, and loads of mounts, this bike is without a doubt a dirt-road touring machine that on the outset screams for big adventure in far off places. However, I would argue that the out of the box components don’t speak the same language. The dropper post, 28-spoke wheels, PF bottom bracket, and hydraulic brakes are odd choices for such endeavors. The latter is not much of a concern these days (especially for weeks or month long trips), and the other two can be remedied (if the PF BB is a concern, check out Wheels’ threaded options ). On the flipside, with a short chainstay, hydro brakes, and a dropper post, the 1120 has several ingredients that make it look like a trail bike. But, the steep head tube angle and comfort handlebars don’t quite seal the deal. Nevertheless, despite the 70° headtube, I was pleasantly surprised how well the 1120 did when unloaded on the trail. So in essence, in some ways, the parts match the bike, and in others they don’t.

Here is the full build list.

• Front Hub Bontrager sealed bearing, alloy axle, Boost110
• Rear Hub Bontrager alloy, Boost148
• Rims SUNringle Duroc 50 SL 28-hole
• Tires Bontrager Chupacabra, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 29×3.00″
• Shifters Shimano SLX M7000, 11 speed
• Rear derailleur Shimano SLX M7000, Shadow Plus
• Crank Race Face Aeffect, 30T Direct Mount Narrow Wide
• Bottom bracket PF92
• Cassette Shimano SLX M7000, 11-46, 11 speed
• Chain Shimano HG-601
• Saddle Bontrager Montrose Comp
• Seatpost Bontrager Drop Line 125, internal routing, 31.6mm (15.5: Drop Line 100)
• Handlebar Bontrager Crivitz, 31.8mm
• Grips Bontrager Race Lite, lock-on
• Stem Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, 7 degree, w/computer & light mounts
• Headset Integrated, cartridge bearing, sealed, 1-1/8” top, 1.5” bottom
• Brakes SRAM Level T hydraulic disc

• The front rack and fork are unparallelled and offer several major advantages over typical handlebar mounted bags. Plus the fork is quite nice with two sets of triple bosses.
• With racks, this size large Trek 1120 — set up tubeless — weighs 29.4lbs… incredible for a big-footed bike with two chunky, well built racks.
• A well conceived geometry leaning more toward distance dirt tourer.
• Good choice of drivetrain components for bikepacking and dirt touring.
• Rear rack and harness system are a nice way to add a little more volume compared to a typical seat pack… all while slightly lowering the center of gravity. And it’s rock solid.
• The PressFit bottom bracket will likely be one of the biggest gripes about this bike. But, as mentioned in the Norco Search XR review, there are ways around this being a risky (or squeaky) affair.
• Playing the devil’s advocate, the aluminum frame will likely be the second con. While it’s not as vibration dampening and repairable as steel, it’s certainly lightweight.
• The frame triangle doesn’t quite jive with size large universal fit frame bags. The best bet is a custom bag if you want a frame pack.
• I would prefer a rigid seatpost and a price closer to $2k. But, considering you get two racks, the harnesses, and don’t necessarily need any bikepacking bags, it’s actually not a bad deal.
• If it were up to me, the front-end would be a little slacker.
• Size Tested Large (19.5″)
• Weight (as tested with tacks) 29.41lbs (13.34kg)
• Rider Height/Weight 6’0″/170lbs (1.83m/77kg)
• Place of Manufacture Taiwan
• Price $2499.00
• Manufacturer’s Details Trek

Ryan: The Trek 1120 is a great bike for off-road excursions and anywhere you could use a little extra float, think sandy desert arroyos or loose trails. It’s comfortable, stable and provides a solid platform for strapping gear and a low center of gravity to keep you in control. I’m not sure this is the do-all bike that Trek states on the website, however it does provide a very stable off road touring option that can take you off the beaten path without having to invest in a plethora of specific bikepacking bags.

As Ryan mentioned, I’m not sold on the idea that this is a perfect do-all bike. Although Trek doesn’t necessarily claim it as such, they certainly based the build kit and spec around the idea that it’s both a dirt-road expedition bike and a modern trail bike. But, I’m afraid this approach makes the 1120 fall short at the extreme definition of each. That being said, with a few minor tweaks the 1120 can be adjusted to serve either purpose.

Ultimately, Trek’s rack systems are very smart and well executed. This is what will sell this bike. The front rack and fork is spot on. And as some riders can’t quite get their pack list down to the standard kit, or others need bigger kits or space for more water, or smaller riders need an alternative packing option, the 1120’s harness system and rear rack provides a very innovative, functional and solid solution.

When I started testing this bike the first thing that came to mind was The Baja Divide… or other such long-distance, sandy, water-starved bikepacking routes. For such trips 29+ tires are the perfect choice. And having all the gear you need on the two racks frees up five bottle mounts for water storage. The Trek 1120 begs for such pursuits. Out of the four bikes I currently have at my disposal, if I were to head out on the Baja Divide tomorrow, I’d happily swap the handlebars, saddle and seatpost, and set out with the 1120.

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The New 2019 Trek 520 Touring Bike

Table of Contents

The 2019 trek 520 touring bike, want to compare this touring bike with dozens of others, helpful resources, touring & bikepacking bike overview.

The Trek 520 is the longest running model in Trek’s history. It’s hard to believe that this USA-based company has been refining their dedicated touring bike for 36 years now! Today, we’ll be looking at the controversial changes to the frame, fork and components of the 2019 Trek 520 model.

Ok, the most controversial change to the Trek 520 is the new aluminium fork. Really, a steel frame and aluminium fork?

Aluminium is a dirty word in the bike travel world, but the thing is – broken aluminium forks that are designed for the purpose of touring are about as rare as hen’s teeth. Almost all European touring bikes employ aluminium forks on their builds, and it follows that if this material was inherently unreliable or dangerous, manufacturers would’ve switched back to steel over a decade ago.

From the outset, it might seem strange that Trek chose an aluminium fork for the 520, especially when it causes concern for some. I can’t comment on the precise reason why Trek would have chosen aluminium over steel, but it seems logical to me that they’ve managed to achieve increased fork stiffness with a tidy weight reduction of 318 grams.

Is an aluminium fork less comfortable than a steel fork? Not in my experience. When you’re running tyres in the 38-50mm width range you experience lots of tyre deformation over bumps making any difference in vertical fork compliance unnoticeable. It is worth mentioning that some steel forks with a long rake can be optimised for vertical flex, but this style of fork wasn’t fitted to the outgoing 520 model.

Moving on, a new feature of the fork is what Trek calls the thru-skew secure skewer system. The dropout loops all the way around the skewer, meaning that the wheel cannot fall out unless the skewer is removed. This is designed to keep the quick release wheel perfectly aligned in the fork, similar to a thru-axle system. The fork itself comes with eyelets to fit a cargo cage on either side, as well as eyelets behind the dropout for full fenders.

Included with the bike is a Bontrager front rack unique to the 520. The rack features an upper tray to fit a front basket or a porteur-style bag. Alternatively, you can use the tray to simply strap a drybag to the top. It’s great to see some eyelets on the rack to help mount a front dynamo light too.

The Trek 520 now uses Shimano STI shifters rather than the tried-and-trusted barend shifters of the previous models. While this may seem like a bad decision for a round-the-world touring bike, STI shifters have become much more reliable in the past five years and many people who travel a bit closer to home certainly prefer the better access to the shift levers. You can always swap the levers out if you’d prefer to know your shifter will outlast the rest of the bike.

The bars on the 520 are a pretty typical road handlebar. It’d be nice to see a flared drop handlebar offered with this bike for two reasons: the flared drops provide a bit more steering leverage and the handlebar shape provides additional clearance for a bikepacking handlebar pack, should you decide to pack light.

The gear ratios have improved on the 2019 Trek 520 which I’m really happy about. While many users of the old model opted to swap in a 11-36t cassette to achieve a sub-20″ climbing gear, the new model comes with one as standard.

Another moot point found in the forums about the 2019 model is the downgrade from Shimano Deore gearing to Alivio. The reason for this move is that Deore has now moved on to 10-speed, and unfortunately there are no Shimano STI shifters which will work with the new 10-speed Deore drivetrain parts.

The brakes have received an upgrade to TRP Spyre-C callipers, however. These cable-operated brakes use a unique design that pulls both brake pads in at the same time, providing near-hydraulic braking performance (most cable disc callipers pull just one pad).

Tyre clearance has stepped up from 700x45c to 700x50c. While most companies abide by international standards for tyre clearance (at least 4mm of space on either side of the tyre), Trek adds another 2mm on top of that, so you can likely fit 54mm tyres (29×2.2″) in the 520. Another change to the 520 frame is the larger diameter downtube. This increases the lateral frame stiffness and therefore increases the stability with a front and rear load. As far as I’m concerned, you can never have enough frame stiffness on a touring bike!

And finally, there’s been some discussion around the 125kg maximum total weight limit for this bike. If the bike weighs 13kg itself and you were to carry the maximum rack capacity of 38kg, that means that technically you’d have to be under 74kg as a rider to meet this requirement.

I’m not too sure why Trek have opted for this limit (it’s been like this for a while – something legal perhaps?), but it’s my experience that a frameset of this build type will comfortably handle more. The wheels, although spec’d with 36 spokes, are possibly the only area which may not stand the test of time under a 125kg+ load. Check out THIS resource for my rim recommendations for super heavy loaded touring (ie. tandem-strength rims).

In addition, most bigger manufacturers like Trek are typically a bit more generous with their warranties as they prefer to provide good after-sales service to keep their customers happy. Not always, but I do often hear this.

What do you think of the choice of two colours? I’m digging the simple retro graphics of this years model and think the Anthracite Grey would be a good theft-deterring colour option. At US $1679 , the bike is a bit more expensive than previous years, but with the front rack, upgraded brakes and STI shifters it’s still competitive enough in this segment. Don’t like the build? You can also get the frameset for US $640 if you’d prefer to do build it your way.

You can find out more at Trek .

Check out the  Touring Bicycle Buyer’s Guide  which compares touring bike steering, sizing, gear ratios, specification, pricing and more. The Bikepacking Bike Buyer’s Guide does the same thing, however, with a focus on lighter bikes and models with more off-road capability. Both of these guides are updated annually with the latest models at no extra cost!

All About Touring Bike Brakes Frame Materials for Bicycle Touring How to Select Touring Bike Gearing Understand Bicycle Frame Geometry What’s the Difference between Cyclocross and Touring Bikes?

2016 Advocate Lorax 2018 All City Gorilla Monsoon 2016 Basso Ulisse 2016 Bianchi Volpe and Lupo 2016 2016 Bombtrack Beyond 2017 Bombtrack Beyond 2018 Bombtrack Beyond 2018 Bombtrack Arise Tour 2019 Bombtrack Beyond 2016 Brodie Elan Vital 2016 Cannondale Touring 2019 Cannondale Topstone 2020 Cannondale Topstone 2016 Cinelli Hobootleg Geo 2018 Co-Op ADV 4.2 2017 Curve Grovel V2 2017 Diamondback Haanjo EXP Carbon 2016 Fuji Touring 2017 Fuji Touring 2018 Fuji Touring 2018 Fuji Touring Disc 2016 Genesis Tour de Fer 2016 Giant ToughRoad 2017 Giant ToughRoad 2018 Giant ToughRoad and ToughRoad GX 2016 Jamis Aurora and Aurora Elite 2019 Jones Plus SWB 2020 KOGA WorldTraveller-S 2016 Kona Big Rove 2016 Kona Roadhouse and Sutra LTD 2016 Kona Sutra 2017 Kona Sutra 2018 Kona Sutra 2018 Kona Sutra LTD 2019 Kona Sutra and Sutra LTD 2020 Kona Sutra and Sutra LTD 2020 Kona Unit X 2016 Marin Four Corners 2017 Marin Four Corners 2018 Marin Four Corners 2016 Masi Giramondo 2018 Masi Giramondo 2016 Niner RLT9 2016 Rawland Ulv and Ravn 2016 Salsa Deadwood 2017 Salsa Fargo 2018 Salsa Fargo Ti Frameset 2018 Salsa Journeyman 2016 Salsa Marrakesh 2017 Salsa Marrakesh 2018 Salsa Marrakesh 2020 Salsa Marrakesh 2017 Salsa Vaya 2019 Salsa Warbird 2016 Specialized AWOL 2017 Specialized AWOL 2017 Specialized Diverge 2018 Specialized Diverge 2019 Specialized Diverge 2017 Specialized Sequoia 2018 Specialized Sequoia 2019 Specialized Sequoia 2018 Surly Bridge Club 2017 Surly Troll 2016 Traitor Wander 2019 Trek 520 2016 Trek 920, 720, 520 & CrossRip 2017 Trek CrossRip 2018 Trek 920 2018 Trek 1120

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Bikes & Gear

We know that the bike you ride plays an important role in making your vacation truly memorable. That’s why, we go the extra mile to ensure you have the best cycling experience possible, offering world-class Trek bikes and top-of-the-line equipment at no extra charge. Whether you’re excited about the all-new, Trek Domane SL 7 with electronic shifting, or prefer the boost of our electric-assist bikes, we’ve got the perfect option waiting for you. And that’s not all! Every Trek Travel trip comes with a special discount on your next Trek bike purchase.

So what are you waiting for? Step up, clip in, shift down, and get ready to ride the best bikes in the business on a cycling vacation of a lifetime.

Our Trek Bikes

A bike is more than a tool. It’s a ticket to your next adventure. And a good ride on a great bike can make memories of a lifetime. That’s why we don’t offer anything less than the top-of-the-line Trek Bikes on every trip.

Trek Domane SL 7

Experiencing your cycling vacation of a lifetime is not complete without a world-class bike and the Trek Domane is the King of the road ride. It raises the bar to deliver incredible endurance road bike comfort without sacrificing performance and features highly responsive disc brakes and electronic shifting. This new bike is lighter than ever before, and carbon wheels come standard on every bike.

Included in trip price. Not offered on select destinations. See trip pages for details.

Trek Verve+ Electric Hybrid

With its low-step frame design, front suspension, and the barely-there Bosch electric motor, the Verve+ has one goal: pure enjoyment. Get a boost up the hills when you need it, and never feel a pedal stroke behind.

  Not offered on Level-4 trips and select destinations. Contact us to learn more.

Specialty & Upgrade Bikes

Whether you’re seeking an elegant road ride that includes a boost for challenging climbs or aiming to dominate unpaved adventures with the best gravel bikes in the industry, our specialty and upgrade bikes are guaranteed to offer the comfort you need on and the performance you expect.

Trek Domane+ SLR 7

The upgrade you need for any grade you’ll ride up. Experience all of the pleasure, and none of the guilt with the ultra-lightweight design and high-speed assist of the Domane+ SLR 7. This performance e-road bike will help you fly up mountains, hang with fast group, and take every curve with confidence. So go ahead – take the long way.

Available on  select trips .  including  gravel bike tours  where they are specially outfitted with 40cm Bontrager GR1 tires

Upgrade to the Domane+ SLR7 for only $399 (3-6 Day Trips) or $599 (7+ Day Trips)

Trek Checkpoint SLR 7

Sometimes the road ahead isn’t a road at all. With a high-performance frame designed to be nimble yet stable, and the smoothing effect of rear IsoSpeed technology, the Checkpoint SLR 7 chews up any surface like it was made of butter. And the GRX groupset with integrated clutch in the rear derailleur is made for the bumps to hit every shift, every time. Disc brakes give you maximum stopping power, and 45mm tubeless tires will leave you confidence on every corner.

Trek Domane SL 5 Disc

The Trek Domane SL 5 Disc is the perfect bike for your North America self-guided trip. Trek’s latest innovation has led to the best bike on the road—a light weight, stable and technologically advanced machine to make even the hardest roads seem smooth and easy. Ride confidently, comfortably and longer in the most beautiful destinations around the world We think you’ll like this bike so much, you’ll want to get one of your own!

Trek Domane AL 5 Disc

Sometimes, carbon can be overkill. That’s why Trek delivers the best aluminum bike on the road—a lightweight, stable, and technologically advanced machine to make every road seem smooth and easy while the disc brakes make stopping safe and secure. It’s every bit a race machine, only made for the rest of us.

Additional Gear for Your Ride

Great rides are safe rides, and Trek Travel provides the best gear when it comes to keeping you safe and seen on the road. From the most advanced helmet tech, disc brakes, and powerful Flare R lights, to certified mechanics on every trip—you can enjoy the scenery without the worry. It’s safe to say, no other tour operator goes the extra mile like we do.

Bontrager Wavecel Helmet

WaveCel is revolutionary helmet safety tech that’s available exclusively in Trek and Bontrager bike helmets. It’s designed to be more effective than traditional foam helmets by better managing the rotational forces that can occur in certain cycling accidents. You only get one brain, it’s worth protecting.

Available sizes: Small, Medium, Large, and Extra Large

Garmin Edge 1030

The Garmin Edge 1030 comes equipped with a 3.5″ high-resolution display for maximum visibility, comprehensive navigation and everything you need to track your ride. This GPS computer offers advanced performance monitoring, turn-by-turn navigation, and the Garmin Cycle Map, which notifies you of upcoming turns, elevation data, points of interest and new route generation to explore a destination on your terms. Simple to use, turn by turn instructions at the tip of your finger with the day’s ride pre-loaded for you, plus all the standard information you need.

*North American Self-Guided trips are equipped with the Garmin 830

Ride with GPS

Now you can store your itinerary, guide and hotel contacts all within the Ride With GPS app on your phone or tablet. It’s a modern-day replacement to your standard vacation folder. You can also see each day’s route options and navigate with turn-by-turn directions right from your phone. And the best part? You don’t have to be connected to WiFi or data to use it.

Learn more about what the Ride with GPS Experience can do for you  right here»

Flare R Lights

We make every ride safer with the first taillight designed for daylight visibility. Flare R’s balanced optics set off with a powerful CREE LED can be seen from over 2km day or night. 65 Lumens and 270 degrees of visibility help make you the biggest distraction on the road.

Shimano R540 Road Pedals

This pedal works with any road Shimano SPD-SL cleat to offer a wide platform for efficient transfer of power. If you prefer flat pedals or pedals with cages, we also have those available on every trip. This pedal is compatible with SPD-SL cleats.

We can also provide flat or caged pedals on all of our bikes.

Shimano M520 Mountain Bike Pedals

This pedal works with any touring or mountain Shimano SPD cleat and can be adjusted to fit your desired tension. If you prefer flat pedals or pedals with cages, we also have those available on every trip. This pedal is compatible with  SPD cleats .

Hiking + Walking Gear

Join our Hiking + Walking Tours and leave the planning to us. With tools like GPS navigation, hiking poles, and backpacks provided, you’re set for a comfortable and safe exploration. The path to adventure is clear—all you need to do is walk it.

Inclusions:

• Hiking Poles*
• Technical T-Shirt
• Insulated Water Bottle 
• Ride with GPS navigation experience

*Available for use during the trip. For your comfort, we highly recommend packing your own.

The Apparel

On every Signature, Reserve, Cross Country, and Pro Race Trek Travel trip, you will receive a complimentary Trek Travel cycling jersey. We are proud to partner with Santini, the official clothing sponsor of the Trek Factory Racing Teams to provide a jersey that delivers podium worthy performance and vacation ready style. And when you return home, sport your Trek Travel jersey for instant travel nostalgia. We’ll be sure to give you a high five if we spot you on the road. 

Please note, we do not send out guest jerseys for our Discover, Ride Camp, or Self-Guided trips

Classic Cycling Jersey

On every Signature, Reserve, and Pro Race Trek Travel trip, you will receive a complimentary Trek Travel cycling jersey. We are proud to partner with Santini, the official clothing sponsor of the Trek Factory Racing Teams to provide a jersey that delivers podium worthy performance and vacation ready style. And when you return home, sport your Trek Travel jersey for instant travel nostalgia. We’ll be sure to give you a high five if we spot you on the road. 

Jersey Sizing | Exchange Form

Cross-Country USA
Cycling Jersey

On our Cross-Country USA trip, you’ll receive a custom kit to commemorate the remarkable achievements of your 47-day, 3,786-mile journey across 15 states, taking you from Portland, Oregon, to Portland, Maine.

Trek Domane SL 7 Components:

• Aeolus Pro 37 Carbon wheelset
• Shimano R8170 12-speed Di2 components
• Shimano Ultegra Disc Brakeset
• 11-34T cassette
• Rear IsoSpeed Decoupler
• Bontrager Verse Comp saddle
• Optional : Women’s Specific Bontrager Yatra Elite saddle
• Garmin GPS Computer

Trek Domane SL 7 Availability:

Available in sizes (cm):  44, 47, 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62

Not available for select destinations. See trip pages for details or contact your Trip Consultant for trip-specific availability.

Trek Verve+ Electric Hybrid Components:

• Shimano 9-Speed Drivetrain
• Bosch Active Line Plus drive unit
• Shimano Hydraulic Disc Brakes
• Bontrager Boulevard saddle
• Bosch 500WH Removable Integrated Battery
• Max Assistance Speed: 20 MPH (32 km/h) in U.S. / 15 MPH (24 km/h) in Europe

Trek Verve+ Electric Hybrid Availability:

Available sizes: Small, Medium, Large (frame sizes are first come, first served)

Subject to availability. Not offered on Avid / Level-4 trips and on select destinations.

Some of our trips offer the Trek Verve+ 2 or the Trek Verve+ 3. See trip pages for details.

Trek Domane+ SLR 7 Electric Road Bike Components:

• Shimano R8150 Di2 Series components
• Bontrager Verse Elite saddle
• Aeolus Pro 37 OCLV Carbon wheels
• TQ 250 watt motor
• TQ 360Wh battery
• Max Assistance Speed: 28 MPH (45 km/h) in U.S. / 15 MPH (24 km/h) in Europe

Trek Domane+ SLR 7 Electric Road Bike Availability:

Available sizes (cm): 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60 (frame sizes are first come, first served)

Available on SELECT TRIPS. Please talk to your Trip Consultant to learn more.

Available on select GRAVEL BIKE TOURS, the Trek Electric-Assist Domane+ SLR 7 will be specially outfitted with 40cm Bontrager GR1 tires.

Upgrade to the Domane+ SLR7 for only $399 (3-6 Day Trips) or $599 (7+ Day Trips).

Trek Checkpoint SLR 7 Components:

• Aeolus Pro 37 Carbon wheelset with Pirelli Cinturato Gravel M Tubeless Tires
• Shimano GRX 2X 11-speed Di2 components
• Shimano GRX Disc Brakeset

Trek Checkpoint SLR 7 Availability:

Available in sizes (cm): 49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 61

Available in 2023 on GRAVEL BIKE TOURS. Contact your Trip Consultant to learn more.

Trek Domane SL 5 Disc Components:

• Bontrager Paradigm SL Wheelset
• Shimano 105 R7100 12-speed components
• Shimano 105 Disc Brakeset
• Bontrager Verse Short Comp Saddle

Trek Domane SL 5 Disc Availability:

Available in sizes (cm): 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60

Available on all North American SELF-GUIDED trips.

Contact your Trip Consultant with any questions you may have.

Trek Domane AL 5 Disc Components:

• Lightweight Aluminum Frame
• IsoZone Handlebar with Carbon Fork
• Shimano R7000 105 Series components
• Bontrager P3 Verse Saddle

Trek Domane AL 5 Disc Availability:

Available in sizes (cm): 44, 49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 61

Available on all 2023 SCOTLAND , ENGLAND , and IRELAND trips.

If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.

Looking to travel with a small group or looking for a custom date? Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735

What is the Difference?

Ultimate luxury:.

Savor some of the most spectacular, 5-star properties in the world. Exuding luxury and elegance, these one-of-a-kind accommodations offer the chance to rejuvenate at award-winning spas, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and more.

Enjoy luxurious accommodations handpicked for a refined experience. From signature spa treatments to delicious local cuisine, you’ll be more than provided for; you’ll be pampered.

These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.

On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of hotel levels, from Explorer to Luxury to Ultimate Luxury. Rest assured, no matter which level of hotel you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.

Activity Level

Road : 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Road : 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).

Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).

Road : 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).

Road : 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel:  4+ hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

What are your trip styles?

Classic - reserve:.

Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.

Classic - Signature:

Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.

Classic - Discover:

Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Self-Guided

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

Single Occupancy

Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself

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2023 Trek 520 Review

Are you looking for an affordable, lightweight, and dependable travel bike to tour around the world? If your answer is yes, then you need to read our review of the 2023 Trek 520.

The 2023 Trek 520 is one of the most popular touring bikes on the market. 

It has a lightweight steel frame, sturdy wheels and powerful brakes that make it ideal for long-distance travel in any terrain. 

Additionally, it offers an impressive range of gears, which helps ensure that you’ll be able to handle anything life throws at you while on the road.

Although this bike was designed with touring in mind, its stylish design and reliable components make it suitable for everyday use as well. 

We will review the features and specs of the 2023 Trek 520 and explain why it’s one of the best bikes for long-distance cycling or urban commuting.

Trek’s 520 touring bike for 2023 comprises both speed and strength, crafted with Bontrager Evoke saddle, lightweight alloy wheels and Shimano components. 

It considers comfort, efficiency and reliability as a priority. Let’s take a look at the features in this review of the Trek 520 for 2023:

The Trek 2023 520 is a dependable touring bike made for long distance rides that has been optimized for comfort and performance.

This touring bike offers riders a lightweight yet strong chromoly steel frame, precision brakes and an ergonomic riding position. 

It also comes with an adjustable stem to provide extra reach when needed, reliable tires on rugged wheels, responsive Shimano drivetrain with 21 speed, wide-range components so you can go farther with less effort. 

– Lightweight chromoly steel frame for strength and durability

– 3×9 Shimano drivetrain for improved gear range

– TRP Spyre C 2.0 mechanical disc brakes provides reliable stopping power in all conditions

– Wide range 3×9 drivetrain consisting of 48/36/26t front chainrings and a 11-36, 9 speed cassette

– Reliable Bontrager H1 Hard-case Ultimate, 700x38c tires

– Rugged Bontrager Affinity Disc wheels withstand even toughest terrains

The steel frame is made from Trek butted chromoly that provides a reliable ride quality and excellent strength to meet the challenging miles you will be encountering—no matter if on pavement, dirt or gravel.

Trek has equipped the new 520 with just the right amount of rigidity while still maintaining the compliance needed to stay comfortable over longer rides. 

It comes with Trek’s Alloy disc touring fork, loaded with rack mounts, and a 100x5mm ThruSkew that gives you excellent control over rough surfaces. 

The resulting stability ensures you feel safe and secure even during high-speed descents down steep grades.

Wheels & Tires

This bike is fitted with Bontrager Affinity alloy wheels spinning around sturdy sealed bearing hubs that are designed to tackle any road surface. 

As well as being light they also feature straightforward mechanical disc brakes offering plenty easy braking power when needed. 

For grip on tougher terrain, Trek dressed the aluminum hoops with meaty Bontrager H1 Hard-case Ultimate, 700x38c tires boasting plenty of bite through wet conditions.

Drivetrain & Brakes

Thanks to its strong Shimano Sora and Alivio 3×9-speed drivetrain, you are guaranteed plenty range for tackling climbs or flybys when out riding around town. 

Stopping power comes courtesy of TRP Spyre C 2.0 mechanical disc keeping weight low but ensuring you have enough stopping power when coming back down off tough sections.

All these elements come together making up an incredible machine perfect for those looking for strong, reliable, steel touring bike capability at great value without halfhearted design or compromises when it comes to components. 

Next time your considering your next purchase be sure to take some time to consider Trek’s latest offering —the 520 may be just what your searching for!

Order online and have it shipped to your local dealer for final assembly!!

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Best touring bikes: Machines for old-school, long distance riding

The best touring bikes to load up for the long haul or just for local load-lugging

• How to choose

The best touring bikes are designed to be loaded up for comfortable long-distance riding, but they're also a robust, reliable option for local riding with a load or just for commuting .

They're a bit old school now, with bikepacking being the trendy fast and light way to ride far, either on one of the best endurance bikes or the best gravel bikes . The availability and range of models reflect that trend, although touring bikes still offer a great way to see the world.

They're built strong, often with a steel frame and fork and have reliable wheels with plenty of spokes for strength, as well as a wide gear range, which may be via a triple chainset with a smaller range of "speeds" in the cassette or hub gear. Expect an upright ride position and comfortable touchpoints.

Luggage is normally carried in panniers and bags attached to a rear rack, often supplemented by a front rack, as well as a bar bag. Mudguards are also normal, making riding more comfortable in all weathers, while multiple bottle cages mean that you can keep hydrated even when you're far from a tap.

Below, you'll find our pick of the best touring bikes and below that is our buyer's guide to how to choose the best touring bike for you.

Best touring bikes: our picks

You can trust Cyclingnews Our experts spend countless hours testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

This Genesis touring bike option comes fully loaded, with front and rear racks, lights and a bottle cage, while its 35mm wide tyres give a comfortable ride. There's a Shimano Tiagra triple chainset, which gives a total of thirty gear ratios, which head below 1:1 for loaded climbing. 

Read more below

Another steel-framed tourer with many of the extras you'll need already there. The Kona Sutra has a high ride position and is equipped with a Brooks leather saddle for a retro touring vibe, although the disc brakes and wide gear range keep it up to date.

Yet another steel-framed option with front and rear racks and an upright ride, the Salsa Marrakesh has 3x9-speed gearing and mechanical disc brakes. Its 42mm Teravail tyres should provide comfort and grip wherever you travel.

Another long-haul steel model, the Disc Trucker has a very upright ride position thanks to its riser stem and yet more rise to its bars. A triple chainset that goes as low as a 26x34t ratio helps with long rides over steep roads.

With 42mm WTB Resolute tyres, the Marin Four Corners is a bike that can handle poor road conditions. The steel frame and fork are robust, while the triple chainset, nine-speed gearing and mechanical disc brakes should prove reliable. 

The Giant Toughroad takes a slightly different tack from most touring bikes, with flat bars, an alloy frame and carbon fork. Its 50mm wide tyres and very wide gear range equip it for off-road adventures.

Best touring bikes

1. genesis tour de fer 30, specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The Genesis Tour De Fer is a great option in this category. It's a top all-round bike, featuring a solid steel frame, durable tyres, disc brakes and all the practicalities such as three bottle cages, front and rear racks, mudguards and dynamo-powered lights.

Simply put, this is a bike ready for whatever you need to do straight away, whether it's commuting, leisure riding or touring. The bike offers an easy, calm ride, and is comfortable enough to get on and go right away.

35mm Schwalbe Marathon tyres come as standard, with their puncture-proof reputation. The Shimano Tiagra triple groupset gives you plenty of range including a sub-1:1 ratio to haul your loaded bike up the hills. You might need that range, with the extra features adding significantly to the bike's weight though.

2. Surly Disc Trucker

Another do-anything bike, the Disc Trucker features a sturdy and good-looking steel frame and fork. It is, however, more suited to road riding than exploring gravel and mud, though it's not to say that you can't tackle gravel tracks with it. The rise to the bars, paired with a long head tube gives a comfortable all-day ride position.

Mounts for three bottles, a pump, and mudguards add to the practicality, while the tyre clearance will let you get some meaty rubber in there. Surly quotes 2.1" tyre clearance on 650b wheels and the smaller frame sizes come specced with this wheel size for better toe clearance.

A Shimano Alivio MTB triple groupset with Sora road shifters provides steady and reliable 9-speed shifting, although it's quite a low end spec. Like the Genesis and the Trek, the Disc Trucker relies on TRP Spyre mechanical disc brakes for reliable, low-maintenance stopping power.

3. Giant Toughroad SLR 1

What do you get when you combine a mountain bike, a touring bike and a gravel bike? No, this isn't the start of one of your dad's jokes, you get the impressively capable Toughroad SLR 1. More suited to the offroad than any of the bikes we've looked at so far, Giant calls it a do-it-all bike capable of commuting, but make no mistake, it's built primarily for dirt and gravel.

There's no suspension fork, but the giant 50mm tyres are a dead giveaway. An 11-42 MTB cassette on the back will also help with tackling the steep stuff, although there's not the absolute range of the triple chainsets on the bikes above. Pannier racks front and back and three bottle cage mounting points mean you can pile on whatever you need to take with you.

There are plenty of modern features on the bike, including thru-axles, hydraulic brakes, and tubeless tyres. A reliable Giant wheelset and Shimano Deore groupset round off this bike. You might find the lack of variation in hand position with the flat bar configuration gets tiring on longer rides though.

4. Kona Sutra

The first thing to strike you about the Sutra is its retro features; the Brooks leather saddle and steel frame give a different look to many of the bikes we've looked at. Disc brakes and thru-axles remind you that this is a thoroughly modern bike, though.

It's another bike for touring and commuting on the road and on some gravel/dirt surfaces. Mudguards and front and rear pannier racks are included, while there are other bosses for more additions if needed.

The 10-speed Shimano GRX gravel groupset with Tiagra shifters gives plenty of range, although not as much as a triple like that specified on the Trek, while the hybrid hydraulic/cable-operated brakes should give a bit more stopping power than the TRP Spyre cable brakes specced elsewhere, they are more of a faff to maintain though. It's a classy-looking bike that can work well anywhere.

5. Salsa Marrakesh

A great-looking steel frame is the first thing to catch the eye on this bike, while the fat 42mm tyres give a signal as to its intentions. It's as comfortable off-road as on, whether you're touring, commuting or just riding for fun.

As with the bikes above, front and rear racks are included, though if you want to add mudguards, be warned that the wide tyres will need to go on a diet ­– down to a 40mm maximum.

It's a solid entry into the touring selection, even if it is a bit on the weighty side, however, though not so much that you'll be struggling under the weight. Components include a Shimano Alivio groupset with Microshift shifters as well as TRP Spyre-C disc brakes and wheels and tyres ready to be set up tubeless.

6. Marin Four Corners

The Marin Four Corners is part tourer, part gravel bike. It's got the clearance for really wide tyres on 650b wheels (which is the stock wheel size specced on smaller-sized frames), but you can also set it up for a more traditional touring configuration with 700c wheels.

The steel frame is bombproof while the long head tube gives an upright ride position so you've got plenty of visibility all around. There are mounts for a rack, mudguards and to lash extra kit to the fork legs, so you can load up to head into the unknown. It's a bike more geared to gravel than the road, unlike the more traditional tourers like the Kona and the Genesis.

7. Trek 520

Marketed as a bike for long-haul travel, the Trek 520 is the longest-running bike in Trek's stable, although its days look to be numbered. The 520 is no longer sold in the UK or US, but international buyers in some countries still have a choice of two specs on Trek's site, including the Sora/Alivio option above.

Like the Genesis, the Trek 520 comes with front and rear racks, although you'll have to add mudguards for all-weather use. Small updates include mechanical disc brakes with a thru-axle alloy fork, while the 9-speed Shimano Sora gearing provides massive range from its triple chainset, albeit with quite large jumps across the 11-36 tooth cassette.

It's also nice to see tubeless-ready wheels specced (although not the tyres), so you can set up tubeless, which should up dependability on long rides. 

How to choose the best touring bike for you

Whether you're looking for a practical way to get to work, want that extra durability so that your bike will stand the test of time or want to travel to far-flung corners of the earth with nothing but a tent and a change of clothes, a touring bike a great addition to your stable of steeds. 

You can still get around quickly – whether you're hitting the roads, gravel paths or other rough terrain – but plenty of space for mudguards and racks, as well as a more relaxed position, make a touring bike a better all-round option than a road bike, a hybrid or a mountain bike. 

The relaxed geometry and more upright riding position are also handy for commuting, and the best touring bikes are often built with durable, easy-to-maintain components so they can be fixed when hundreds of miles away from a bike shop. This lends itself to fewer mechanicals and lower running costs. Steel frames also have a far better chance of being repaired all over the world compared to aluminium or carbon fibre if you're on a big trip.

What types of touring bike are there?

Touring bikes can range anywhere from predominantly road-going bikes with horizontal top tubes and 700c tyres, to rugged mountain bikes with knobbly mountain bike tyres. 

What the best touring bikes tend to share, however, is a durable design, comfortable geometry and the ability to carry luggage. Some opt for bikepacking bags , which usually consist of frame bags and oversized saddle bags, whereas others opt for the traditional rack and pannier bag method of carrying luggage. 

As with any bike purchase, consider the riding you plan to do with the bike. For those looking to travel far and wide, a bike with more luggage-carrying capacity will be preferred. For those who are looking to travel off-road, look for a bike that can handle the rough stuff. Live in the mountains? Look for a wide gear range. 

What's different about touring bike geometry?

Touring bike frames feature a relaxed geometry , with a taller head tube and shorter top tube for a comfortable and more upright riding position compared to a racing road bike. In addition to this, they feature a longer wheelbase, which keeps the bike stable even when loaded with heavy luggage. Since they're designed to be cycled over long distances, they're equally designed to stay comfortable for as long as possible.

If you're a geometry nerd you may notice the trail is a little lower than you'd expect for a relaxed ride, but this is often done to counteract the slowing effect on the steering of a heavy front load to avoid the bike feeling like a barge when laden.

Which gearing should a touring bike have?

Gearing-wise, what you should pick really depends on what type of riding you'll be doing. If you're taking on hills regularly, then you'll want a cassette with larger sprockets on the back. Some touring bikes offer a triple chainset too, with easier gearing on offer compared to a double chainset. The addition of extra gear combinations into the mix will add an extra component to maintain, so those on flatter terrain might prefer a single chainring at the front.

The majority of touring bikes offer standard external gear systems – the chainset, chain and cassette we're all used to. Some do have internal gearing though, with an enclosed rear gearbox which requires a lot less maintenance and is less prone to damage but is heavier and will cost you more. Belt drives are also available – this is a multi-tooth belt instead of a chain, so no regular cleaning or lubrication is required. Hub gears like the Rohloff system are favoured by riders taking on huge worldwide tours for their durability. 

Should I look for rim brakes or disc brakes?

As with much of the cycling world, rim brakes and disc brakes are both available, with rim brakes found more often on lower-end bikes. Rim brakes feature two pads grabbing onto the wheel rims to stop the bike, while disc brakes grip onto a separate rotor on the wheels instead.

Disc brakes feature better and more consistent braking performance, which is useful for a heavily laden bike, and are better in wet weather, though. Both adjustment and maintenance are far easier with rim brakes, however, with an Allen key and some new pads all you really need.

Rim brakes will wear down your rim eventually, prompting a rim swap and wheel rebuild or a new wheel. Whereas that's not an issue with disc brakes, and there's more leeway to keep riding with a buckled disc brake wheel or a broken spoke.

Hydraulic disc brakes are generally maintenance-free in operation, however, if you snag your brake hose on a tree in the middle of the Atlas Mountains, there's little chance of repair unless you packed a bleed kit and spare hose. 

What should I look for in touring bike contact points?

Saddles are an important factor, being the main point of contact with your body. Padded saddles may look more comfortable but looks can be deceiving, with thinner padding usually better for you once you've gotten used to it after a few rides. Saddles should support your sit bones, and additional padding can move the pressure elsewhere and rub more, making things more uncomfortable over time.

If you're planning a long trip and already have a saddle that you like, it may be worth swapping out the saddle that comes with the bike, if you're not sure how comfortable it will be for the long haul.

On a multi-day trip, handlebars need to be comfortable as well. Some bars have a slight rearward sweep, which can feel more natural when riding on the tops. A shallow drop is likely to be more comfortable to use as well.

Which pedals should I choose?

It's worth choosing pedals wisely too. While the best road bike pedals give good power transfer, the best cycling shoes that work with them are difficult to walk in, which could be an issue if touring or even for a trip to the shops.

On the other hand, flat pedals may make it difficult to keep your feet well-positioned for longer rides. They will allow you to use standard shoes, which are easier to walk in, but unless the soles are relatively stiff, your pedalling will be less efficient and you may get foot ache after a long day riding without adequate support.

Gravel bike pedals are a good option, as they still let you clip in for more efficient riding, but the cleats are recessed on the sole of the shoes and so can be walked in much more easily. You'll need gravel shoes to go with them that accept two-bolt cleats. These will have soles designed for efficient pedalling and foot support, but most are not too stiff to walk in comfortably.

Alternatively, some of the best commuter cycling shoes also allow you to fit two-bolt cleats.

You can learn more about the pros and cons of two-bolt versus three-bolt pedals in our explainer.on Shimano SPD vs SPD-SL systems.

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Paul has been on two wheels since he was in his teens and he's spent much of the time since writing about bikes and the associated tech. He's a road cyclist at heart but his adventurous curiosity means Paul has been riding gravel since well before it was cool, adapting his cyclo-cross bike to ride all-day off-road epics and putting road kit to the ultimate test along the way. Paul has contributed to Cyclingnews' tech coverage for a few years, helping to maintain the freshness of our buying guides and deals content, as well as writing a number of our voucher code pages. 

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Trek 520 Review: Is It a Good Bike or Waste of Money in 2024?

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Trek 520 is an affordable touring road bike with a rich history. The question is:

Is it a good bike worth your consideration?

One of the highlights of the Trek 520 is that it comes with front and rear racks, allowing you to equip it with panniers and bags for increased cargo capacity. The stylish yet durable steel frame. The entire bike’s geometry is more relaxed so that you can sit in a more upright position.

Let’s scrutinize this bike in-depth to find out more.

Is Trek 520 a Good Bike?

Trek 520 retails for around $1,829 (the actual price may vary).

So, what do you get for this money?

• A stylish, old-school-looking bike based on a steel frame.
• Front and rear racks for panniers and bags to expand the storage capacity for your long bike adventures.
• Shimano Sora 3×9spd groupset, providing enough gears for all terrains.
• Disc brakes for effective stopping power in all conditions.
• An overall capacity of 275 lbs (125 kg).

The quick description above makes it clear that the Trek 520 is not a standard road bike but a touring/adventure bike designed for touring.

Bikepackers and other adventure seekers love it for its large storage capacity, which allows them to pack everything they need.

The bike’s geometry allows you to sit upright, unlike on racing road bikes. This riding position is more beginner-friendly and suitable for people with limited mobility.

Trek 520 is available in 6 sizes and is suitable for riders from 5’2″ to 6’6″ (from 158 to 197 cm) tall.

Pros and Cons of Trek 520

Below, I summarized the pros and cons of Trek 520.

Pros of Trek 520

• Front and rear racks included
• Timeless look of the steel frame
• 3×9spd drivetrain offering 27 gears
• Disc brakes
• Comfortable geometry, allowing upright riding position
• Available in a wide range of sizes
• Tubeless-ready rims
• High weight limit of up to 300 lbs (136 kg)
• Platform cage pedals included
• Lifetime warranty and wide distributors (support) network

Cons of Trek 520

• Limited color selection
• The higher weight of 31.4 lbs (14.24 kg)
• Relatively low weight limit of 275 lbs (125 kg)

Owner’s Experience with Trek 520

The following part summarizes the experience of the owner of Trek 520 Grando, who was kind enough to provide us with pictures and his insights.

“Trek 520 Grando – the ‘do it all’ bike. Go anywhere, everywhere, on any surface, and in any condition.

Steel frame, aluminum fork with Shimano Tiagra front derailleur and shifters & Shimano GRX rear derailleur.

I’m almost at 3000 miles as of August 7th. I bought the bike on December 29th, 2021.

I’ve added the Bontrager Adventure Boss frame bag, switched out the pedals to Shimano SPD, the handlebars to GR Elite with 13° flare, and the red tape. Also switched out the saddle to the Verse Comp.

The most important and noticeable change was the wheels, which I upgraded to Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V with a 108 rapid drive hub.

The tires are Origin 8 Wildfire CX 700x38C tires for gravel/sand and Bontrager H2 for the road.

I ride the bike through sandy trails, over gravel, mud, and grass, and on the road. The gearing goes from crawling to maxing out at 34mph (55 km/h) on flat terrain.

The changes I’ve made are all personal things I wanted to upgrade or change for my comfort and performance. The bike stock was perfect, except for the pedals and saddle. It came with toe cages that are not good, and the saddle was not very comfortable (personal preference).

Otherwise, I love the bike so much! I’m averaging about 120-160 miles a week on it. Unfortunately, I am limited because of the 40°C temperatures we have this time of year.

I can definitely recommend this bike to someone looking for a versatile and comfortable bike! “

Main Features of Trek 520

Trek 520 has been in Trek’s lineup since 1983. Below, I focus on the 2023 model.

Durable Steel Frame

Trek 520 is based on a timeless steel frame with a relaxed geometry.

This is good news for bike packers because they can sit in a more upright riding position that is less demanding on their flexibility and core strength.

Steel is also a bike material that is relatively easily fixable on the go (unlike carbon).

Its other benefits include high durability, affordability, and the iconic look of the rounded tubes.

29-Inch Wheels

The 29-inch wheels are a standard size on road bikes. Those on the 520 are tubeless-ready, so you can use tubeless tires.

They are made of aluminum and use stainless steel spokes, providing great durability while keeping reasonable weight.

NOTE : The wheelset in the following picture is not stock. The owner replaced it with the Bontrager Aelous 3V carbon wheels.

The 520 offers tire clearance for up to 2″ wide tires (without fenders). So, depending on the terrain you want to ride, you can replace the stock 38mm tires.

Trek 520 is equipped with Shimano Sora/Alivio (shifters, derailleurs, cranks, cassette), Bontrager, and other 3rd party components.

The Grando has a combination of Shimano Tiagra and GRX and easier gears. It also has wider tires but doesn’t include the rear rack.

I am sure you will appreciate the mechanical disc brakes that are more effective in tougher conditions (like in the rain).

Some owners report the stock saddle is uncomfortable, but everybody has different preferences. You can always replace it later.

One of Trek 520’s main highlights is its aluminum racks, which can hold up to 55 lbs (25 kg).

Remember, the Grando only comes with the front rack. The rear rack is not included.

NOTE : The rack is not shown in the pictures because the owner took it down and uses frame bags instead.

These racks will allow you to expand your bike’s storage capacity, so you will pack everything you need for your trip.

The current generation of Trek 520 has a 3×7spd drivetrain with 21 gears, while the Trek 520 Grando has a 2×10spd drivetrain.

This range is wide enough for various terrains. Just make sure you avoid cross-chaining.

The disadvantage of the 3X drivetrains is their complexity, more complicated maintenance, and higher weight.

More expensive mountain bikes come with 2X or 1X drivetrains that are much simpler than 3X.

You don’t have to think about the cross-chaining as much. That’s why they are more popular.

Trek 520 Specifications

Below, I summarize the most important technical specifications. Remember, they differ based on the year:

• Frame material: Steel
• Trek 520: ±14.24 kg (31.4 lbs)
• Trek 520 (Grando): ±13.28 kg (29.27 lbs)
• Wheel size: 29-inch (tubeless-ready)
• Brakes: Mechanical disc brakes
• Trek 520: Shimano Sora/Alivio
• Trek 520 (Grando): Shimano Tiagra/GRX
• Trek 520: Front and rear included
• Trek 520 (Grando): Front only
• Trek 520: 3×9spd
• Trek 520 (Grando): 2×10spd

What Trek 520 Size Do You Need?

To choose the correct size of Trek 520 (Grando) for your height and inseam, refer to the following Trek 520 sizing charts.

Trek 520 (also available in the ‘Grando’ option) is a reliable touring road bike worth buying if you want to undertake long bike adventures.

It has racks that allow you to equip the bike with panniers and bags to extend your storage capacity.

Thanks to the durable steel frame, you will stand out in the flood of carbon road and gravel bikes.

It also offers a wide enough gear range (3×9spd) suitable for various gradients.

There are really not many downsides, except for the limited color selection and weight limit of 275 lbs (125 kg).

Trek 520 FAQ

Yes. Trek 520 is a worthy touring bike for people seeking bike-packing adventures. It has a durable steel frame with a relaxed geometry, racks for extending storage capacity, and a wide enough gear range to tackle any terrain. Read this entire article for more info.

The Trek 520 has narrower tires and front and rear racks. Grando has wider tires, only a front rack, and different gearing and components (Shimano Sora/Alivio vs. Tiagra/GRX). The 520 Grando is also about 1 kg (2 lbs) lighter.

Trek 520 weighs ±14.24 kg (31.4 lbs). Trek 520 Grando weighs ±13.28 kg (29.27 lbs).

Trek 520 has been in Trek’s lineup since 1987. ( Source )

About The Author

Petr Minarik

5 thoughts on “trek 520 review: is it a good bike or waste of money in 2024”.

I loved this bike, but after about 1,500 miles the crank bearing were worn and the ultimate disappointment, the frame cracked. It was my ideal touring bike up tao that point. Trek cannot even replace the frame, but offered an aluminum gravel bike frame which does not meet my needs. I’ll keep looking for a frame.

Hi Kurt, I am sorry to hear that. I am also surprised that Trek didn’t offer the same frame as a compensation. What frame did they offer? And why it doesn’t meet your needs? – Petr

Luckily got Trek 520 from Dbyke store, Pune, India. Weight factor is a concern as it weighs pretty 14 Kgs. Should weight could be compromised by Al alloy speed could also have picked up as its not designed for speed. Should have come with fenders and a dynamo. I didn’t find the stock pedals effective and got it replaced. Overall tough bike and didn’t face any issue from 9 months. No bike is complete but have to accept the reality.

I have owned 520 since 2020. In that time I have driven 8000 km (end 2023). I happened to weigh over 135 kg. The Shimano hardware and paint is poor, a gentle bump is a chip. I have HeadSet bearings to replace. The 520 has not let me down in Switzerland, Italy, Germany, France, Holland, Belgium, Austria, Hungary, Poland … Is it worth buying? I can’t think of anything better in Europe at this price. The Koga is two, three times more expensive.

Have a good trip

Hi Dominik, Thanks for sharing your experience! I wish you a lot of kilometers ridden. 🙂 – Petr

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Trek 520 Touring Bicycle Review

November 17, 2022

‍ Key Takeaways

• The Trek 520 is the only touring bike Trek offers
• The 520 has been the stable touring bike for decades
• The 520 may be in danger of being phased out due to decreased demand.

This article may contain affiliate links where we earn a commission from qualifying purchases.

‍ Trek has been making excellent bicycles for years, and their workhorse has been around forever. How good is the Trek 520, and is it worth buying?

The Trek 520 is a touring bicycle that Trek Bicycle has produced since 1983. The Chromoly steel bike has stood the test of time and has been the go-to bike for years for cross-country rides. It is one of the most popular bicycles that Trek has ever made, enjoying brisk sales and a solid following.

In the bicycling community, newcomers often try to promote the latest aerodynamics or advancements as the most revolutionary thing ever introduced. But in a world of constant tweaking, there's something to be said for staying the course. When Trek introduced the 520, the company knew there was a market for enthusiasts interested in more than just recreational cycling. Trek fashioned the 520 Touring bikes in 1983 to be exercised in adventure and exploration. The bike has a solid frame, can handle added gear and weight and gobbles up pavement like there is no tomorrow. Over the years, the 520 Touring bikes have captured the hearts of the bicycling enthusiasts, and Trek has had enough sense not to mess with a good thing.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

‍ What Makes the Touring 520 So Special?

For years, Trek has offered the 520 as the ultimate touring bike. It is the only touring bike that Trek offers. What exactly makes the Trek 520 so unique and loved by so many?

The Trek 520 Was Built Very Well

There is a reason that Trek has put so much confidence in the 520, and a lot of it has to do with the way it was built. Even though Trek’s headquarters is located in Waterloo, Wisc., the actual build is performed overseas. The Giant Bike Company makes many Trek units in the far East. (Giant makes bicycles for several companies). The good thing about this consistency is just that. When you make the same bike for years, your workers have an excellent opportunity to get very good at what they are doing.

The Chromoly frame is designed to be lighter and stronger than average steel composites. This alloy makes the metal ideal for bicycling frames where weight reduction directly affects speed, and the need for durability is equally essential (multiple uses and strains).

The Trek 520 frame features five different sizes of frames that run from 48 to 60 cm to accommodate different-sized riders’ bodies. Since not every bike rider is the same size or shape, the various sizes are a welcome option for many who have trouble finding a bicycle that fits them correctly. The touring bike has a weight capacity of 275 lbs, which includes equipment and a rider.

The Trek 520 frame can handle rear and front racks, making it ideal for long-distance trips. In addition, the frame has distinct features, such as water bottle or pump mounts. Owners can modify the bike with fenders to keep the mud from slinging up, especially when riding on wet pavement. Many cross-country riders have welcomed the small touches because these add-ons made their rides easier to manage.

In early models of the 520, the fork was also a steel Chromoly, but with recent renditions, the company has shifted to an aluminum alloy. While steel forks can often be too stiff, leading to cracking and disintegration, the aluminum alloy fork allows for more flexibility while handling the abuse from different road surfaces. The design of the ThruScrew allows owners to remove the front tire without unpacking all the gear they were carrying upfront.

The tire is Bontrager Hard-case Ultimate, 700x38c, with the option of growing into a pair of 29 x 2.00-inch tires. The wide tire gives the rider better comfort and can handle the punishment of uneven road surfaces. Since cross-country riders are traveling on the edges of challenging highway roads, the added width is welcome. The company has also included a reflective sidewall to keep cyclists safe.

The 9spd Shimano drivetrain is versatile, and when coupled with Shimano derailleurs (Shimano Alivio M4000 on the rear), the shifting is smooth and easy. While most early renditions of this bike used Shimano Deodre for several years, the company moved to a Shimano Alivio (which some reviews felt was a step down). However, Shimano continues to surprise, and the Alivio is probably one of the best intermediate group sets on the market. Shimano continues to be the big boss of components for cycling, so their parts are easy to secure. Coupled with the lifetime guarantee, the bike can be quickly repaired should something go wrong.

Most of the other components of the bike (handlebars, seat, and the like) are supplied by Bontrager, which Trek owns. Once again, the company can contain costs using its in-house maker of parts.

For 2023, Trek is offering two distinct colors, Diablo Red and Anthracite (think charcoal), but over the years, there have been complaints about the paint job needing to be able to hold up. The great thing is that the metal below the paint won’t rust or corrode. Most riders can live with a bike that looks like it's been on a few adventures, so this is not a deal-breaker.

The Trek Performed Very Well

The 520 has consistently scored very high in reviews over the years. The ride is exceptional for a heavier bike, but that weight lends itself to stiffness and stability, particularly for the long hauler. (I had an uncle who rode his Trek across the country several times in the eighties, with only a few minor tire changes).

The bike could be more agile, although the added weight can make the handling chunky. Still, the 520 seems to gobble up pavement and isn’t intimidated by inclines or steep descents. The bike has wider tires, which lend themselves to excellent grip on a slick pavement or even gravel roads. The steel frame absorbs most shocks and bumps without translating them to the upper torso of the ride. Overall, there is a lot to love about this bike. Most owners of Trek 520s prefer the older models because their performance is so exceptional. Regardless, the rider will have a lot of confidence in this bike and, even after years of ownership, still be singing its praises.

The Trek 520 Was Reasonably Priced

Even though the current $1895 is pushing the limits of what most families would pay for a bike. At the introduction in 1983, the 520 cost a mere $400, which was exceptional. Since then, the bike has increased in price each year.

The Trek 520 Has Been Around for a Long Time

As mentioned before, Trek has been producing the 520 for almost forty years. During that time, it has seen its share of improvements here and there, but for all intents and purposes, the bike is still a great touring bike. The fact that this is the only touring bike Trek makes, coupled with the continued demand across multiple generations, makes this bicycle deserving of hall of fame status.

The Trek 520 has a Difficult Future Ahead.

During the early years of Trek 520, it is essential to remember that there was a massive surge in the pastime of bike riding. American superstars like Greg Lemond and Lance Armstrong captured the public's psyche and spurred more and more people to take up the sport, both recreationally and professionally. (It didn’t hurt that both Tour de France winners wore Trek jerseys). In addition, programs like 1 world 2 wheels (Trek’s pet project to get more people into the cycling world) helped foster an extensive biking culture. Their willingness to support bike clubs and sponsor longer rides across the country helped keep them at the forefront of an eager public.

While Trek continues to support and sponsor pro-teams, it is clear that more people are turning away this past time. According to statistics, recreational riding by kids has fallen 49% since 1997. Undoubtedly, our world has raised a generation much more interested in playing video games from their couch rather than strapping on a helmet and exploring the world.

For those who are riding, most current riders are moving away from touring bikes and choosing to go electric. The 27 billion dollar industry is expected to double in the next five years, and due to the decrease in sales for regular bikes, it won’t be long before e-bike sales surpass standard bike unit outputs.

As a sign of things to come, the Trek website indicates that it cannot ship the Trek 520 due to a lack of production. Whether this is from the fact that the company is signaling the 520s demise, cutting back on production numbers, or has just sold out of their yearly allotment, remains to be seen. The website advises potential buyers to contact their local bike shops to see if the bike is available in their particular locales.

What We Liked and Hated About the Trek 520

As mentioned above, the Trek 520 has stood the test of time and has captured the hearts of cyclists everywhere over the years.

• Been around for a long time
• It has a solid Chromoly frame
• Able to handle long trips and added gear
• The Bike may be difficult to secure
• The future of touring bikes is dwindling
• See the manufacturer's website for more information on the 520 and its availability.
• For Today’s Price, check out your local bike retailer.

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About THE AUTHOR

Danny Lawson

Mountain biking is more than just a hobby for me - it's a way of life. I love the challenge and excitement that comes with it, and I'm always pushing myself to go faster and ride harder. Some people might think that mountain biking is dangerous, but I see it as the only way to live.

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Trek 520 Touring Bike Review  

  June 10, 2019

By   Max Shumpert

Trek offers its customers only one touring bike option, the Trek 520.  The Wisconsin-based manufacturer has been producing the 520 since 1983 and each year, the bike is altered with a fresh outer design and paint color.

Although the components have had little variation in recent years, the new incarnation has added more tourist-friendly features compared to its predecessor, the 2018 model. This ensures that you have the ideal biking experience when going out on an expedition.

The Trek 520 touring bike shows its more adventurous ambitions with its gearing , which has gone lower than before.

This feature will prove significant when you are carrying a heavy load and you get to a long mountain pass. In such a situation, it would be nice to switch into a lower gear.  

Trek 520 Tech Specs

FRAME SIZE : TIG-welded butted Chromoly in sizes 48, 51, 54, 57, and 60cm BRAKE TYPE : TRP Spyre C2.0 mechanical discs SHIFTER : Shimano Sora RIMS : Bontrager Tubeless ready, 36h TIRES : Bontrager H1 Hard-case Ultimate, 29 x 2" (without fenders) CHAIN:  KMC X9 9sp

Features of Trek 520

• The 520 is the longest-running model in the Trek lineup and has been in the market since 1983.
• It enhances the versatility through built-in mounts that help in adding racks and fenders easily.
• This comes with Blendr Stem that allows you to clip your gear directly to the stem for maximum use.
• It also comes with puncture-resistant tires (38mm Bontrager Hard-case tires).
• The Trek 520 offers a wide range of sizes of frames in order to suffice various body sizes.
• Improved gear ratios.
• Upgraded to TRP Spyre-C calipers , it offers assistance close to the hydraulic brakes system.
• One of the advantages also includes the warranty offered by Trek that ensures a bike check-up during its malfunction.
• The geometry and frame of the bike ensure a smooth and comfortable ride on a rough road.

The bike’s front thru-axles ensure that you get the most out of the TRP Spyre brakes. These are among the top mechanical disc brakes in the market, offering an option that is easier to fix than hydraulics when you’ve been on a beaten track.

Even though they need more effort through brake levers compared to hydraulic disk brakes, they still work in all kinds of weather conditions .

Another feature you’ll like is the 36-spoke Bontrager Affinity rims, which add to the 520’s sturdy build.

The 38mm Bontrager Hard-case tires are well-suited for the tarmac and will offer a smooth ride on light gravel . It’s a good thing that the rims will accommodate wider rubber, enabling the flexibility to fit a more off-road flavored or gravel-specific tire.

There is a step up on the tire clearance from 700 x45c to 700 x50c. Whereas most manufacturers abide by international tire clearance standards- at least 4mm of space- Trek adds an extra 2mm so that you can potentially fit 54mm tires in the 520.

The Trek 520 frame features five different sizes of frames that include 48, 51, 54, 57, and 60 cm to accommodate a wider range of body sizes .

The bike maintains the usual Chromoly frame, with the break from tradition being an aluminum alloy fork as opposed to the previously used steel forks.  

However, a controversial feature of this model is the step down from the Shimano Deodre gears to Alivio.

The grounds for this move, I believe, could be since Deore has currently moved on to 10-speed, there are no Shimano STI shifters that will pair with the 10-speed Deodre drivetrain parts.

Another new feature on the bike’s fork is the trek t hru-skew secure skewer system . This has the dropout looping all the way around the skewer to make sure that the wheel won’t fall out without removing the skewer. 

It ensures that the quick release wheel is perfectly aligned in the fork, as is the case in a thru-axle system.

We also liked the 48/36/26t Alivio mountain bike chainset, which comes with a tiny 26t internal chainring instead of a Shimano 105 road bike 50/39/30.

The manufacturer has used a saucer-sized 36t sprocket that delivers a low-bottom gear. The 48×11 top gear is built for powering downhills while the Alivio rear derailleur and Sora gear lever pairing work nicely together.

The trek 520 weighs around 13kg itself and with the rack weight of 38 kg, the rider technically has to be under 74kg to meet this bike's requirement.

Recommended - Trek Emonda SL6 2020 Review

What We Like

Quite a lot...actually.

The Trek 520 is a functional touring bike with improved features that will serve you well on long-distance rides . 

What impressed us about this bike is that the gear ratios have been improved . While the majority of users of the old models chose to swap in a 11-36t cassette to attain a sub-20” climbing gear, this new model comes with one as standard.

The brakes have also been upgraded to TRP Spyre-C calipers. These cable-operated brakes utilize a special design that pulls the two brake pads simultaneously, providing a breaking performance close to the hydraulic brakes system.

Another notable change on the 520 that we liked is the larger diameter downtube . This helps to boost the lateral frame stiffness, increasing the bike’s stability with both front and rear loads. It doesn’t get better than this when it comes to frame stiffness on a touring bike.

Generally, the 520 uses Shimano for most of its components. The advantage here is that these parts are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace . Not to mention the lifetime warranty provided by Trek that ensures you can get your bike checked by experts whenever it develops a malfunction.

If you are planning a long bike tour with a significant load, the 520 has the right geometry for a comfortable ride . The upright posture, chainstay length, and low center of gravity were meant for these kinds of circumstances.

• Increased capacity
• Comfortable on long rides
• Customizable
• Different Sizes

What We Don’t Like

If there’s one thing about the 520 that is still wanting, I would say it's the paint job! What I noticed is that the metallic paint used on the bike peels off easier compared to any other bike I’ve owned in the past.

An easily chipped paint job is not something you want on a touring bike given the prolonged exposure to elements involved.

The good thing is that despite the chipping of the paint, the metal underneath does not rust easily. The price may also be a bit costly for those who are on a budget.

• A bit Pricy
• Paintjob chips easily

Recommended - Cannondale Bike Hybrid

This bike is a bit pricey, but the replaceable parts are quite affordable.

Buying Advice

If you are looking to buy a classic touring bike, the Trek 520 is an investment worth making. Its durability, comfort, style, and combination of convenient features make it all worthwhile.

I personally feel like it’s the perfect bike to set out on a long tour with, especially if you have a lot of supplies to bring along. The Trek 520 geometry and frame of the bicycle provide you with a smooth ride on a bumpy road and can still take on mild dirt trails when fully loaded.

Trek did a good job of fitting an already industry-tested bike model with features that make it even more touring-friendly in its latest offering. The Trek 520 is a bike you can take a chance on!   

The Trek 520 is a classic and functional touring bike that has stood the test of time. Trek has been supplying its customers with quality long-distance bikes for more than three decades.

The retail price might be expensive to some, but the parts are affordable when you want to replace them. Before buying you can also check for trek 520 touring bike for sale as these big manufacturers provide good deals and offer to keep their customers happy.

If you want a practical bike that will ensure your comfort on a long expedition, consider acquiring the Trek 520 .

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Trek Bicycle opens its first Reno store and showroom

The first dedicated trek store and showroom in reno is located at the crossing at meadowood square..

A big name in cycling is joining the list of shops in the area as Trek Bicycle opened a new 8,000-square-foot store and showroom in Reno.

The Trek store is in south Reno at The Crossing at Meadowood Square across the street from Whole Foods. The store is Trek’s first in Reno, according to the K Corp., which manages the shopping center at 6407 S. Virginia Street.

The store sells the latest bikes and products from Trek and the Bontrager brand. Offerings include cycling accessories, apparel and gear. The store includes a demo area to try out the bicycles.

The Trek store also provides service for any brand of bike. The full-service bike shop offers tune-ups, maintenance, repairs and customizations.

The Trek showroom is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

The Crossing at Meadowood got Reno’s first dedicated Panera Bread last year . Other stores there include Blind Onion Pizza, FedEx and Hotworx.

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The trains and stations of the Moscow Metro

2 Comments · Posted by Alex Smirnov in Cities , Travel , Video

The Moscow Metro is the third most intensive subway system in the world after Tokyo and Seoul subways. The first line was opened on May 15, 1935. Since 1955, the metro has the name of V.I. Lenin.

The system consists of 12 lines with a total length of 305.7 km. Forty four stations are recognized cultural heritage. The largest passenger traffic is in rush hours from 8:00 to 9:00 and from 18:00 to 19:00.

Cellular communication is available on most of the stations of the Moscow Metro. In March 2012, a free Wi-Fi appeared in the Circle Line train. The Moscow Metro is open to passengers from 5:20 to 01:00. The average interval between trains is 2.5 minutes.

The fare is paid by using contactless tickets and contactless smart cards, the passes to the stations are controlled by automatic turnstiles. Ticket offices and ticket vending machines can be found in station vestibules.

Tags:  Moscow city

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Tomás · August 27, 2012 at 11:34 pm

The Moscow metro stations are the best That I know, cars do not.

Alberto Calvo · September 25, 2016 at 8:57 pm

Great videos! Moscow Metro is just spectacular. I actually visited Moscow myself quite recently and wrote a post about my top 7 stations, please check it out and let me know what you think! :)

http://www.arwtravels.com/blog/moscow-metro-top-7-stations-you-cant-miss

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E-bike tour guide pedals Yellowstone, Gardiner rides

BILLINGS – In the winter, Jay O’Connor used to feed 55 horses that in the summer provided horseback rides for fishing or hunting guests.

Now O’Connor owns 40 e-bikes that he parks in the garage for the winter and ignores.

As the owner of Big Sky Ebike Tours and Rentals in Gardiner since 2020, O’Connor said he’s “living the dream” guiding cycling tours in and around Yellowstone National Park. After all, where else can cyclists possibly see bison, elk, bighorn sheep, bears, foxes, coyotes, deer and a variety of hot pools, fumaroles and geysers in one trip, not to mention spectacular views of the surrounding mountains?

O’Connor’s guided rides inside Yellowstone include a 17-mile trip around the base of Bunsen Peak on a gravel service road closed to public vehicles. From Old Faithful, his Geyser Basin Tour pedals to Morning Glory Pool along the Firehole River and then on to Biscuit Basin. Shuttling the bikes he can then skip on to Firehole Lake Drive and ride Fountain Freight Road to Grand Prismatic Spring.

“I don’t do anything on the roads at all,” he said, instead focusing on getting his guests away from crowds.

Last weekend, with the 50 miles of highway from Mammoth Hot Springs to West Yellowstone open to bicycle traffic only, O’Connor was leading tours from Mammoth to Norris Geyser Basin, a 38-mile round trip.

Outside the park, one of his most popular tours travels down the Old Yellowstone Trail to the red-colored rock uplift of Devils Slide and on to Yankee Jim Canyon where the Yellowstone River is forced into a narrow gorge. The return ride stops at Yellowstone Hot Springs for a soothing soak.

“That’s a really popular ride for us because there is so much wildlife in the basin,” O’Connor said.

Costs range from $175 for the Bunsen Peak ride to $275 for the Geyser Basin tour. Four people is the minimum for a tour, otherwise an additional fee is tacked on. Bike rentals are $50 an hour to $100 for a full day.

Up and down

Much like the trails and roads he rides, O’Connor’s business has seen some ups and downs since it was launched.

Opening during the COVID pandemic was a “kick in the teeth,” but then participation in outdoor activities grew because indoor venues were closed. That inaugural year was followed by a solid summer of growth before the historic 2022 flood. The raging waters of the Gardner and Yellowstone rivers washed out the nearby North Entrance road to Yellowstone. Gardiner businesses were suddenly isolated at a dead end. Last year, tours rebounded after the route was reopened, and so far this year O’Connor is quickly filling his summer tours.

“My primary demographic is families and people over the age of 40,” he said.

Feeling young again

E-bikes are also a personal choice for O’Connor. He had a hip replacement last year and was still able to pedal 20 miles a day with the motorized assistance the cycles provide. His first ride on an e-bike made him feel like he was 20 again, propelling him to start the tour and rental service.

“This business wouldn’t work with a traditional bike,” he said.

That’s because when touring, he uses a microphone that connects to earbuds each rider wears. This way he can tell his tour group what power level of assistance he’s at and what gear the cycle is in, so everyone stays at relatively the same pace.

On traditional bicycles, the group would likely be more spread out depending on the rider’s ability, or lack thereof.

Most of O’Connor’s tours are under 25 miles, so the bikes’ batteries last for the entire ride. On longer trips, like in the spring when he goes from Mammoth to Norris and back, he carries an extra battery.

On one of those spring rides into the park, O’Connor came around a corner to find a newly awakened black bear only 10 feet off the road.

“He was groggy,” he said. “He must have just crawled out of hibernation.”

Rather than fleeing from the pack of riders, the bear ambled over to a boulder and curled up for a nap. That’s not something most bike riders will encounter, providing a charge unlike the one e-bikers may typically need.

Want an electric vehicle? Better keep our hydropower

As we embark on a second "Great Electrification," in an effort to decarbonize our economy, it’s worth remembering the first one that occurred 80 years ago.

Electrostal History and Art Museum

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