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Trek Belt Driven Bikes: District and Soho

It’s safe to say that very little has changed on bicycles since they first became popular at the beginning of the 20th century. So, when I saw the new Trek District and Soho, I instantly thought “GAME CHANGER.” Trek has gone all Mavericky on us and dropped the ubiquitous chain for a new carbon fiber belt driven system on both bikes.

By Jon Gaffney

It’s safe to say that very little has changed on bicycles since they first became popular at the beginning of the 20 th century. So, when I saw the new Trek District and Soho , I instantly thought “GAME CHANGER.” Trek has gone all Mavericky on us and dropped the ubiquitous chain for a new carbon fiber belt driven system on both bikes.

According to their website, “The belt drive is a carbon fiber composite belt reinforced to prevent stretch. The worry-free, lube-rejecting, lighter-than-any-chain-you’ve-ever-owned belt also produces a ninja-like quiet ride.”

What this means to you:

One, no lube means no grease stains on the pants, which are a big deterrent if you’re on your way to the office.
Two, removing the toothy sprocket and the adding a belt guard means your new Bonobos shouldn’t get torn up.
Third, these belts have an advertised lifespan of three years, as opposed to the typical one year life of a chain. Plus, they require no lube, so they’ll take less time and money in maintenance.
Finally, unlike past failed belt driven bikes, this one has teeth built in so there is no slippage, regardless of weather conditions or how hard you pedal, key for dodging cars at rush hour.

Editor’s Note: There are a few things to consider: both bikes have aluminum frames, which are generally thought to have inferior ride quality to CroMoly. For those of you looking for a fixed gear, the District does not have a flip-flop hub. Trek is developing an in house solution, but nothing yet. The District is a single speed and the Soho has an internal hub 8-speed, so one or the other should fill your commuting needs and wants. Bonus points to the District for rocking the GP colors.

Cost: $930-$990

Also See: Giant TCR Advanced 3 | Mission Bicycle

Trek Soho Commuter Bike

Frame: Alpha Black Aluminum
Fork: Bontrager Edge, aluminum w/lowrider mounts
Shifters: Shimano Alfine, 8 speed
Cassette: C-Drive 24T alloy belt sprocket
Pedals: Soho, alloy body w/alloy cage
Seat Post: Bontrager Satellite Nebula
USER REVIEWS

Low maintenance belt drive. Low maintenance internal gears. All weather disc brakes.

Heavy!!! Subpar brakes. Slippery pedals.

I have the 2011 version which is basically the same as the 2013 version except for the older generation Gates pulleys. I had find Trek Soho Dlx disappointing. Due to the weight, it's slow to start from a stop. I feel the weight going up steep hills. The disc brake is better than rim brakes in the rain but it's not as effective as other disc brakes. The pedals are small and slippery when wet. The frame is very stiff as a prerequisite to having belt drive. It's a jarring ride over potholes. The bike took so much fun out of riding for it's practicality that I had given up on it. Then I came across the Gates website and thought I can change the front pulley to better handle the hills. I went with CenterTrack Front Pulley 46 tooth to replace the original 55 tooth. It made a big difference in the hills while still fast enough on the flats. I only changed the front pulley and belt. The CenterTrack belt works with the older rear pulley without any problems. The change in gear ratio along with newer version of disc brake pads have given new life to the bike. I've also changed the pedal, removed the chain guard, changed to lighter fenders and put Ergon grips on. With all the changes the bike is a pretty pleasant ride now. The belt drive requires zero maintenance and no messy lubricant. The internal gears also has been zero maintenance over the past 4 years. Trek Soho Dlx is a unique bike. It's not a bike to fall in love with due to the ride characteristic. But with the modifications, it's become quite likable with the inherent strengths.

I originally wrote a massive review but I found it was the same review I found everywhere. Yes, this bike is fantastic. It is robust and utilitarian in design. I think the geometry is simple and beautiful. The Belt drive is awesome. The 8 speed internal is very responsive. The bike is wicked quiet and overall wicked awesome. I love it. I strongly recommend it. I own 3 bikes and it is my favorite. I chose this bike based on a decision to commute all year round. The belt drive and internal gear proved to be low maintenance which is why I chose it. Be aware that this is a commuter bike, this means you sit more upright for improved visibility both for yourself and for others. As a result, you are not the fastest bike on the road.

I'll start small and then get into the bigger issues. - Could have been even cleaner if the cables were internal. - Coffee cup that it comes with is silly and so cheap that it would be better if it didn't exist. Also the cage is not very impressive. - Rubber flap at the end of the fenders are poorly installed. I caught it with my foot and tore one of the 2 mounting points off when turning at slow speed. My solution was to rip it off and crazy glue it to the outside of the fender rather than the inside. - Pedals are not grippy at all. Every street shoe I tried slipped all over the place. It would be a good idea to swap these out. My solution was to put zip ties with small amounts sticking out like spikes. - Poorly balanced where majority of the weight is in the rear. It's also quite a bit heavier than my other bikes. I've found that I yearned for an even higher gear for climbs more often than I ever used the lowest. I'm happy my regular route isn't one with large hills. It is difficult to hop obstacles on this bike and hitting an object is likely to end in a flat tire. I blew a tire going from path to grass at speed. - As a commuter bike I would have liked to see a factory installed quality kick stand. - I'm not sure if there’s a break-in period but I found that the tension on the belt wouldn't stay optimal. Although in the later months this stopped being a problem all on its own. I advise you learn how to adjust this yourself instead of going into a shop every time it drifts. - Handle grips are subpar. I really like palm rests and this bike is equipped with them. However you can't torque them down so they spin around and I constantly have to readjust them. Get rid of them and put traditional grips or proper ones like Ergon GS1. ran out of space. see Review summary.

The rear brake is a Shimano roller. This by far my biggest (read: only real) complaint. During the summer, I found I just had to get used to it. I like disc brakes and this in comparison was really spongy. I didn't like it but it wasn't a deal breaker, I think they put it on because you have better control of the bike while trying to stop. When winter showed up (note: you're gonna need a different pair of tires) this brake has become a massive frustration. It seizes up at a temperature of -2 degrees Celsius. Either the brake lever doesn’t budge or it will but the brake won't release and the lever moves freely. Whichever failure occurs, it’s terrible, the latter being worse. Less than 5 minutes of being in a warm environment and performance springs back to normal. I brought it into the shop thinking maybe some water found its way into the weather sealed mechanism. They did a full clean and checked over everything. Next ride, same problem. I called the shop and also contacted Shimano directly. No great tips. The shop had the bike for a week and I know they were talking to Shimano. Next ride, same problem. For winter riding this brake is DREADFUL. Currently I have not solved this problem. I've disconnect the rear as trying it as left me worse off more often than not. My next step is to remove it and put a disc brake installed but I'm not sure what that cost will be. Online reviews suggest that this is not a common problem and Shimano was a little surprised to hear it as well. All that being said, I've disappointedly driven my vehicle more often that I’ve cycled to work. Overall this bike is fantastic and I recommend it to anyone who doesn't want to put a lot of time maintaining their bike. I bought my 2011 in 2014. It was "used" but had less than 50 km on it. The first thing I did was take it in for a tune up. The shop looked through it and told me to save my money as it was in no need for a tune. I then rode it like a bandit all summer. This bike is Fantastic.

Soho Deluxe (2012): Absolutely magisterial ride quality, solid and stable. Turnkey drive train with adequate gearing for hilly city. Thoughtful extras. Anti-theft black paint. Rubber trim to protect top tube. Decent tires.

Weight. Cost. Handlebar too wide and modern mustache style is ill chosen. Rear end not easy to service. Saddle more suited to a woman giving birth.

Buy it and ride every day to recoup your investment.

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General Urban
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2009 Trek Soho

A 700c aluminum frame general urban bike with high-end components and rim brakes. Compare the full range

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Jun 2008 · Gary Boulanger

As the average bicycle purchase climbs higher with so many art house brands entering the fray, and with no end in sight for the crazy-spendy carbon racer bikes, it’s pretty cool to see Trek putting its resources into a rather hip and smart urban commuter like the Soho 4.

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Last updated June 29 Not listed for 2,477 days

Trek Superfly Pro and Soho Deluxe - Just in

One for going fast, and one for going slow

This article originally appeared on BikeRadar

We tested the 2011 Trek Superfly Elite last year and found a lot to like, including impressively low weight, a stout backbone, superb handling, and good ride characteristics. The 2012 Superfly Pro, however, expands on what was good, fixes a few niggles we found with the previous version, and moves even further upscale for what we expect to be a cross-country rocketship.

The frame is mostly carried over – which in this case is a good thing – with the exception of Trek's OCLV Mountain and Carbon Armor technologies for improved impact resistance. Nearly 100 percent carbon construction keeps the weight to a not-too-low 1,340g for our medium tester while the otherwise identically puffed-up tube diameters and tapered front end should yield the same sharp handling and pedal responsiveness as before.

Both the headset and bottom bracket bearing seats are molded right into the carbon structure – saving weight but also minimizing complexity – and while the dropouts are carbon, too, bolt-on aluminum plates are used for better long-term durability and easy replacement if needed.

This year's Superfly Elite switches from the SRAM X0 of our old tester to a Shimano Deore XT package but our new Pro model goes all-in with a SRAM XX group, which helps bring the total weight of our tester to a paltry 9.66kg (21.30lb) – and once we convert it to tubeless, that figure will drop even further.

Trek has heeded one of our gripes from last year, replacing the quick-release dropouts with a 15mm through-axle setup for 2012

Other component highlights include a RockShox SID XX 29 fork with remote hydraulic lockout, tubeless-ready Bontrager Race X Lite TLR Disc 29 alloy clincher wheels, a carbon wrapped Bontrager Race X Lite seatpost, a pleasantly wide Bontrager Race X Lite Carbon Big Sweep flat bar, a Bontrager Race XXX Lite molded carbon stem, and Bontrager's comfy Evoke 4 titanium railed saddle.

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Despite losing a full pound relative to last year's Elite, some wise choices in spec should actually make this year's Pro more capable on a wider selection of terrain. Tire size has grown to 2.2"-wide Bontrager 29-1 Teams with their versatile, low-to-medium profile tread blocks, new 15mm thru-axle dropouts up front should improve steering precision over technical terrain, and last year's horrible Bontrager foam grips have finally been replaced by the ESI silicone foam grips that the Subaru-Trek team has used for years.

All this performance does come at a high price, though. Retail cost is US$6,829.99 but at least as far as we can tell right now, the only thing you'll need to add before hitting the trails or toeing the start line is a pair of pedals.

Rather than go with hugely oversized chainstays and ultra-spindly seatstays, Trek have opted for more moderate dimensions all around

Belt drive and internal gearing on the Soho Deluxe creates the perfect match for commuting

Trek's Soho Deluxe promises ultra-low maintenance for the time-strapped urban commuter. The Gates Carbon Drive CenterTrack toothed belt requires no lubrication, the Shimano Nexus 8-speed internally geared hub guts are far more protected from weather than on a conventional drivetrain, and the front disc and rear drum brakes should work far longer than regular rim brakes before any service is required.

At least from the look of things, the Soho Deluxe should be a true grab-and-go machine that's ready when you need it but won't require a lot of attention in between.

Initial test rides have also proven it to be remarkably quiet – so much so that Trek should perhaps consider a bell as standard equipment. The rear hub features a roller clutch mechanism instead of conventional toothed pawls, the belt generates nary a whisper of sound as you pedal along, and aside from the light click in the shifter, even changing gears is a virtually noiseless operation

Aside from the aforementioned bell (and kickstand), Trek looks to have otherwise done a good job of making the Soho Deluxe commuting-ready with factory-included fenders, chain guard, and rear rack plus a rubber padded top tube to protect against scratches and dents when locking the bike up. Armored Bontrager H2 Plus tires are standard fare as well and their reflective sidewalls offer some reassurance when riding in low light.

It's not especially lightweight at 13.92kg (30.66lb) all in but pricing seems fairly reasonable at US$1,319.99 considering the hardware included.

The Trek Soho Deluxe looks to be well equipped for the rigors of urban commuting

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Trek Soho 4.0 commuter review

Urban commuter equally comfortable in tails or Chuck Taylors

Gary Boulanger

gary boulanger

The industrial design influences found on the US$1,100 Trek Soho 4.0 make it one of the more intriguing urban commuters, and with the wonderful Shimano Alfine internal 8-speed rear hub, the bar has been raised on what makes a solid commuter.

Trek has always done well with its hybrid line, but there's a finicky bunch amongst newer commuters, and sometimes a perceived 'frumpy' hybrid bike just doesn't deliver. Trek's engineers did their homework with the Soho 4.0, and the finished product is delightful to look at as well to ride.

Ride & handling: acceleration when it matters most

The semi-upright handlebar position works well in traffic and when transporting a backpack. Trek specced the Soho 4.0 geometry like a road bike, with nearly 73 parallel head and seat angles, which, coupled with a longer head tube and chubby 700 x 32c tyres, makes for a lively, nimble and enjoyable city bike.

The gentle swept-back Bontrager Satellite Plus arc bars make riding in traffic fun, providing confident steering while being easy on the wrists, unlike most straight bars.

But the strength of the 28.5lb Soho 4.0 (and there needs to be plenty at this price) lies in the bike's ability to stomp and accelerate instantly, keeping its pretty self and its driver out of harm's way. The Soho 4.0 proved itself worthy several times during our long term testing.

Frame: clean lines and smart add-ons

Don't let the satin platinum finish fool you - this is a mean street machine. Trek benefits from its engineering and research and development efforts on its high-end road and mountain racing bikes. Trickling down from those machines is the extensive use of lightweight hydroformed aluminium which adds subtle and sexy lines to the Soho 4.0. Those clean lines are nicely uninterrupted because Trek has chosen disc brakes rather than V or cantilever brakes.

Trek also wisely provides braze-ons galore for racks, mudguards and chainguard.

One of the coolest aspects of the Soho 4.0 frame is the integrated rubber bumper, designed to protect the tapered top tube from nicks, scratches and the like.

Equipment: Shimano Alfine reigns supreme

As we mentioned earlier, the drivetrain is based on Shimano's fine Alfine 8-speed internal hub gear. The whisper quiet and nearly effortless trigger shifting is a boon at stop lights and in situations where meddling too much with looking down and trying to commandeer a bike through busy traffic is a hazard.

Trek's house brand Bontrager provides much of the finer components on the Soho 4.0, namely its Nebula deep-section aluminium rims and puncture-resistant Satellite Nebula tyres. Taking a nod from the popular (and smart) trend for commuters, Bontrager includes a reflective sidewall strip on the tyres to make the Soho 4.0 more visible to traffic from the sides at night. The larger platform pedals provided ample room for street shoes, and never once felt cheap or flexy like most stock commuter pedals.

Gearing is provided by the Bontrager Nebula 44-tooth crankset and Shimano's 18-tooth rear cog, while slowing and stopping duties are provided by Shimano's M65 mechanical discs and Tektro two-finger alloy brake levers. Our tester's hands enjoyed the ergonomically-friendly shaped grips, a trend we hope to see on more bikes soon.

Verdict: spending more and getting every penny's worth

As the average bicycle purchase climbs higher with so many art house brands entering the fray, and with no end in sight for the crazy-spendy carbon racer bikes, it's pretty cool to see Trek putting its resources into a rather hip and smart urban commuter like the Soho 4.0.

As we experienced with the similarly smart Specialized Globe Centrum Sport last year, a good commuter needs more than one speed to be really effective on a daily basis.

The Trek Soho 4.0 adds credibility to the thinking that, as the price of gas in the US creeps way above US$4 a gallon, there's really no limit to what even urban commuters can and should spend for reliable transportation.

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Trek Soho review

by Cyclesgo

Trek are the ﬁrst of the major manufacturers to introduce belt-driven bikes into their range. Compared to the slick singlespeed District, the Soho is less of a funky looking street machine, with a potentially more usable and sensible speciﬁcation. The Gates belt drive system is combined with Shimano’s Nexus eight-speed hub gear, front and rear Nexave roller brakes slow things down, and all the contact points are from Bontrager’s Nebula range. Full colour co-ordinated mudguards and a belt cover keep the muck off your clothes. The frame is built from Trek’s Alpha aluminium, with shaped tubing reminiscent of the company’s road bike frames. There are plenty of braze-ons should you wish to ﬁt front and rear racks, as well as provision for a Dutch/nurse’s lock on the seatstays.

The Ribble CGR 725 top tube has a full length rubber strip embedded in it which protects it from scratches, and one neat accessory is an insulated aluminium coffee mug. Although the frame is reasonably slender, the build with a hub gear and hefty roller brakes all adds up to the bike’s 30lb-plus weight. Once aboard though, the weight isn’t an issue. A combination of 700C wheels and fast-rolling 32mm tyres make it easy to propel the Soho up to a reasonable cruising speed.

Trek have moved away from the traditional sit-up-and-beg position commonly used for town bikes and have gone with a ﬂatter, longer riding position, and a gently swept back bar – a cross between a mountain bike style riser and traditional moustache type. The Ribble CGR 725 whole combination results in a bike that’s great to cruise around on yet deals easily with sprinting away from the lights.

For winter riding, weather protection is spot-on, the full-length guards keeping spray off your front and back, and although belt drives don’t get quite as grubby as bikes with an oily chain, the cover ﬁtted is a good bit of insurance. Shifting through the eight hub gears is marginally slower than a standard derailleur setup and requires a bit more anticipation, especially on the climbs. It’s not awkwardly slow, but it is noticeable.

One major issue, though, is the Nexave roller brakes. We like the idea of the enclosed mechanism that isn’t affected by wet weather, but that’s a small plus point compared to the drawback of a woeful lack of braking power on fast descents. Initially nothing seems to be happening; complete inertia. Then the braking starts to ramp up a little. But even grabbing big ﬁstfuls of lever and pulling them all the way to the bar still only slows you, never actually bringing you to a complete halt.

Pitting the Soho against a V-brake equipped mountain bike and doing emergency stops, the Soho’s stopping distance could be measured in metres more. Not good. With a bit of adjustment and fettling we managed to improve them, but not by as much as we’d like, and we’d recommend a try before you buy. If you ﬁnd the same issues we did, get your bike shop to sort it straightaway.

Luckily, the frame has provision for a standard long reach calliper front and rear, which we would suggest as an upgrade anyway, despite the fact that they’ll need more upkeep during the wet winter months. We were happier with the contact points. The Nebula saddle is wider than standard and fairly ﬂat but with deep cushioning; it’s comfortable over longer distances even when not wearing padded shorts. The Ribble CGR Ti ergonomic grips are supremely comfortable and the aforementioned bar is superb. Braking issues aside, what Trek have achieved with the Soho is admirable, taking what could be quite a bland hybrid template and creating a bike that looks great and rides really well. With the brakes sorted it would be perfect for cruising around town and commuting on through the winter.

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Belt Drive Bicycles – Trek Soho

By Paul Crowe

Ever wonder why bicycles never jumped on the belt drive idea? If they’re strong enough for a Harley or a Buell, they should work on a bicycle. Trek thought so, too, and they’ve introduced the Trek Soho.

Gates Technology, same company that makes the belts for Harley Davidson, makes the belt for the bike. The Soho comes with an 8 speed transmission inside the rear hub, no derailleur involved. No more greasy fingers when getting the chain back on the gears, no more cleaning a dirty, gritty chain, looks like a pretty neat technology transfer.

UPDATE: The first comment points out, belt drive bikes aren’t really new, but previous bikes were single speed, you choose the sprocket you want and mount it on the bike. The Trek has an 8 speed hub which makes it (I think) the first belt drive multi speed bicycle. ( Disclaimer: I’m NOT a bicycle expert! )

Link: Trek via Popular Science

kneeslider says

March 9, 2009 at 3:13 pm

CAK, I believe those are single speed, aren’t they? I’m not really up on my bicycles so I’m not sure but I think that’s the difference with the Trek, 8 speeds.

March 9, 2009 at 3:08 pm

These guys have been making belt drive bicycles for years before Trek.

http://www.spotbikes.com/

Phoebe says

March 9, 2009 at 3:29 pm

Trek is a major manufacturer. A company that hand-builds bikes using this is one thing, but it’s kind of a big deal when a mass-producer begins using a technology that wasn’t mainstream previously. It’s pretty brave of them; it might not catch on, after all.

March 9, 2009 at 3:30 pm

Spot makes a 3 speed internal geared belt driven, so not quite the 8 that TREK has, but they have been doing belts for years. But you are right, their main claim to fame is the SS belt drive bikes – and they are beautiful, more or less custom jobs.

March 9, 2009 at 3:40 pm

hmmm…add a motor, suspension, and HOLY COW, WE MIGHT BE ONTO SOMETHING HERE!!

March 9, 2009 at 3:41 pm

Now there’s an idea whose time has come. Derailleurs are clever engineering solutions but are a royal nuisance, particularly if the bike sees any shock loads. I’m sure I’m not the only person to wipe out after landing a jump because the chain went where it had no business.

I’d buy a downhill bike with a belt and 8spd in a heartbeat.

March 9, 2009 at 3:43 pm

Nice idea, not new, of course, but most likely not as efficient as a chain in good condition – just like on motorcycles. So if you treat your bicycle like most people to, the belt would work just fine. There are a few shaft drive bicycles out there too, but on a bicycle transmission efficiency may be more crucial than on a motorcycle.

March 9, 2009 at 3:45 pm

I would think the reason chain drive is preferred on multi-speed bicycles is because it allows easier gear customization. The internal 8-speed of the Trek, though a great idea, is pretty much fixed. You’re stuck with those 8 speeds. Gears on sprocket clusters and chainrings, however, can be replaced with an assortment of sizes to fit the needs of the rider. I know most folks buy it once and never mess with it, but by design it’s there to be toyed with, if they need it.

Plus, I don’t see belt drive giving the 20 or 22 gears that chain drive now offers with dual chainrings on the front, or 24 to 30 gears with a triple crank. Chains are just more versatile… at least for now.

Bottom line, for performance minded riders, chains are the only way to go. For a commuter looking for simplicity with less mess, it looks like belts do offer a good option.

HoughMade says

March 9, 2009 at 8:02 pm

Why? OK, it’s different, but beyond that…

March 9, 2009 at 8:31 pm

“I’d buy a downhill bike with a belt and 8spd in a heartbeat.”

DH is the last place this will be, mud and dirt and belts don’t work well together. The long travel usually dictates a chain tensioner regardless of drive train, so if you have that might was well have a derailer, and then you might as well have a chain.

March 9, 2009 at 10:26 pm

Then there was always the problem of getting the belt out of your frame without having a less than optimal bolted frame. All the diehards will complain that the belt is too wide and less aerodynamic.

March 9, 2009 at 10:30 pm

I think it’s a great idea.

For the kind of bicycling I do … just an evening ride to the park and a couple of times around as long as the weather is nice. Maybe a quick spin to the convenience store.

My hard riding days are OVER … only thing is .. Do I need it?

Still its a good looking bicycle.

March 10, 2009 at 9:21 am

I’m guessing this may not be targeted to the high end cyclists used to the highest efficiency gear for competitive purposes but it may work well for a broader market of cyclists looking for a clean, quiet and easy to maintain setup.

March 10, 2009 at 8:29 am

Efficiency is of utmost importance on a bicycle. Every wasted microhorsepower is a big deal.

March 10, 2009 at 9:07 am

I personally don’t understand the appeal of triple cranks. A double crank effectively gives you a HI-Low set of gears. I guess a triple crank gives low for climbing, mid for flats, and hi for downhills.

With a Shimano Nexus interal hub you can have 4, 7, or 8 speed. That is a gearing range of 184%, 244%, or 307%. The only difference is that the jump between gears is greater. I would think one of these would be great on a mountain bike. A NuVinci CVT would be even better. (I’ve ridden one of these bikes and the NuVinci CVT works flawlessly!) http://www.sheldonbrown.com/harris/nuvinci.html As to belt vs chain. I can’t really see how the belt is an advantage when mated to a internal hub. The only time I get my hands greasy is when the chain jumps gears with a cassette and derailer combo. I wouldn’t want the decrease in efficiency that the belt would cause. I would guess the belt would be quieter though.

March 10, 2009 at 10:57 am

The new belt drive has a couple of advantages over a chain: it’s much lighter, and has less friction. They tested the friction against a new, clean, optimised modern chain, and it was better, and the situation only improved as the conventional chain got filled with gunk…

Part of the reason that belts haven’t been used widely on bicycles before this was because prior versions were too stiff and needed really high tensions to work. This new GAtes belt is optimised for the bicycle application (Though it still requires more tension than a conventional chain.). Another drawback is the need to split the frame so that the belt can pass through.

If I was looking for a new commuter bike I would be very interested in this. (Or a single-speed racer.)

March 10, 2009 at 12:16 pm

Hell I dig it, I gave up on serious hard riding years ago, and my wife and son aren’t in need of a competitive machine, but I do get tired of the kid knocking his chain off, or even worse the inevitable lube-slung back wheel that needs to be repeatedly cleaned. I use wax based lube, FWIW, but it still happens. As to replacing it, well if the belts on a buell will last 100k, I think this will outlast the frame. I realize it is smaller/thinner.

March 10, 2009 at 4:47 pm

I also have seen this before (Spot bicycles): You may also be interested to know that there is a 14 speed internal gear hub out of Germany which is similar weight to the Shimano or SRAM 7 and 8 speed internal gear hubs. The big issue for me (as a previous owner of a Rohloff hub) is that it makes the rear wheel very heavy. So you get a lot of pinch flats especially on a hardtail A minor adjustment in riding style to accommodate that, decent thick tubes, and its not that big of a deal.. If you were touring or for a serious commute: the perfect drivetrain has to be the belt and the Rohloff hub, surely?

If you are interested in some very cool engineering, plus a great engineering drawing, check out http://www.rohloff.de/en

March 11, 2009 at 9:39 am

I am very much into internally geared bikes, they have significant advantages over a dangling derailleur, especially in off-road uses. A belt drive bike seems to make good sense in this application. Simple can be very effective and rideable.

March 11, 2009 at 10:13 am

The global financial situation is putting more and more normal people on pushbikes, and belt drives like this will satisfy them no end. No oil on their work trousers, no faffy cleaning, no loss of efficiency over time.

Regarding gearboxes, I think the cycling world is on the brink of a gearing revolution. So far internal gearboxes have suffered from weight and efficiency drawbacks, but as technology is moving on they’re getting better all the time. Now the big S (shimano) seem to be getting more on board, particularly with it’s Alfine gearhub, we might start seeing some interesting changes.

The tin-hatted consiparcy theorist in me has always assume Shimano make a bit too much money from selling replacements for worn our derailleurs and chainrings to be desperately rushing into the gearbox market. I can’t help but think they’ve likely had something good under wraps for years, and it’s only now the other manufactuers are looking into it more seriously that they’re being pushed into releasing it. After all, who wants to sell products that last for ever these days?

Personally I can’t wait for the first reasonably light 6″ travel mountain bike with gearbox-concentric-pivoting single-sided swingarm and enclosed drivechain. Bring it on :o)

Anyone interested in that kind of thing, do a google search for ‘Millyard’.

March 11, 2009 at 7:04 pm

As was observed above the right side dropout or chainstay has to be split to allow use of the belt. If the bike is designed for it then no problem but it makes retrofitting such setups to regular bikes almost impossible. Bicyclists are inveterate component swappers and spend big bucks on upgrades. This system can’t be retrofitted so the aftermarket won’t be very interested in adopting it.

Rafael says

March 12, 2009 at 3:53 pm

Corratec introduced belt driven bicycles in 2003 or 2004, already with the Shimano 8 Speed Hub. The Model was called “B-Drive” and they are still availible. So Corratec made a multispeed belt driven bicycle years before Trek. But the Trek Soho looks like a very nice bike.

http://www.corratec.com

March 12, 2009 at 11:46 pm

What would be real sweet is having the “transmission” at the crank. That way the wheel hub can be left nice and light and simple. There’s just the pesky problem of getting the shifter cable into the end of the crank without it wrapping up around your leg. Time for servos… That or just move the tranny above or to the rear of the crank. Didn’t Honda do this?

Nobody says

March 13, 2009 at 12:08 am

There’s the 2 speed Schlumpf crank…..

grayband says

March 14, 2009 at 8:11 pm

belts arent widely used on bicycles for 2 reasons…the first is that derailleur based shifting systems are proven, relatively inexpensive, and lightweight and chains have the ability to move across a cassette of sprockets with easy and with minimal noise. This is something that belts are unable to do at this time mostly due to their lack of ability to move laterally . the second reason is that belts don’t have the ability to come apart which allows them to be snaked through the gap separating the drive side chainstay, seatstay and seat tube. In order to install a belt there must be some way to creat a gap in the frame without compromising a frame’s design and structural integrity. and truavative is now making a 2 speed shifting system that will eventually be able to be mated to a belt system and rohloff makes the finest internal hub system available ….

April 10, 2009 at 5:47 am

The article is in Dutch, but you’ll get the picture when you look at the picture:

http://www.dirty-pages.net/nieuws/nieuwsitem.php?id=40971

Robert says

June 1, 2009 at 4:02 pm

I just rode one of these Trek Soho’s back to back with the Trek Soho Single speed chain drive. I was very impressed with the belt drive and could not really detect any loss of efficiency. The back hub definite adds a bit of weight but the split frame regains some strength because the hub, from what I can tell , becomes a rigid member of the frame. If is was $300 less I would have bought it but it just seems really pricey. The gearing ratios seemed very good but the bike was not loaded with all the gear I would normally carry so hard to tell. The jump from 5 to 6 seemed a little tall. The only odd thing I noted was there seem to be some torque backlash in the front fork and I think it was due to the design of the front brake. I noticed it when playing with the bike while standing still but did not notice it as bad when I was riding the bike.

harley says

August 26, 2009 at 8:52 pm

The belt drive is from Gates. They do a good job of showing the advantages in mud and comparing the performance to a chain drive. http://www.carbondrivesystems.com/ It is equivalent in weight and efficiency and superior in longevity and maintenance. Belts work well with internal drives or fixed gear bikes, but I’ve seen mixed reviews on all of the internal drives except the Rohloff ($1000). The belt drive will not be able to be used on a bike with rear suspension unless the frame is built so that the distance from the crank to the rear hub doesn’t change with rear axle movement or there would have to be a tension wheel for the belt.

September 8, 2009 at 2:02 pm

I am looking for a Bike that will work well to pull an adult trailer (cycle tote) for my 12 year old son with special needs. I have been looking at this belt driven SOHO, now that I read this, I wonder if a bike with more gears is more practical? normal usage would be a commuter bike for me, using it on weekends to pull my son.

Any thoughts on the type of bike best suited for this? You can email me directly at [email protected]

morpheous says

November 23, 2009 at 4:20 pm

No mention of the mighty Rohloff Speedhub? 14 equally spaced gears across 526%! (these guys have been doing this for years, and have compatible gates belt drive cogs) http://www.rohloff.de/en/products/speedhub/

THE definitive site for IG hubs and drive systems…. http://hubstripping.wordpress.com/

For the DH boys:(Suspension) Shaft drive or inboard IG hub is the solution.

Richard Harris says

December 7, 2009 at 9:26 pm

I have a Trek Soho with just the front of the bike modified, put on carbon fork with disk mount installed an XTR disk brake up front, I am a bike mechanic, so I have made a few changes to suit me. I have put on 3200klm on this bike commuting belt shows no wear, the nexus 8spd hub is smooth and shifting flawless, does it get any better than that, it works great in the rain, no oil from a chain, as the belt cares not. Best commuter bike I have ever owned. It does need a few upgrade from stock to get it there.

January 8, 2010 at 12:23 pm

I thought about getting this bicycle to ride in the winter so the salt doesnt get into the components and screw everything up. The problem is you need to purchase a new bicycle. For those who would like less hassle with their drivetrains and the ability to retrofit an existing bicycle, I recommend a Shimano Nexus internal hub with a Hebie Chainglider chaincase.

kest56 says

January 29, 2010 at 5:31 pm

now if belt drive came with 8 speeds and a hammerschmit 2 speed crankset on a trek Y foil type frame?

Iambent says

February 3, 2010 at 1:59 pm

“now if belt drive came with 8 speeds and a hammerschmit 2 speed crankset on a trek Y foil type frame?”

http://www.schlumpf.ch/news.engl.htm Scroll down the page to the belt drive model.

Belt Driven Bicycle says

March 8, 2010 at 1:23 pm

I agree its much smoother than chains. I bought two bikes last year and still these belt driven bicylces are going strong.

Chris Morris says

May 5, 2010 at 11:15 pm

Don’t mean to rain on Trek’s parade, but belt drive commuter bikes are standard stuff in Japan for the last 20 years. All 3 of the big bicycle manufacturers make them (Bridgestone, Miyata and Maruishi), usually with 3 speed hubs and their own patented belt tensioning systems. I bought my Bridgestone Lacrosse in 2000, and it has over 8,000 miles on the original belt with no visble wear. Try that with an exposed chain in a wet climate! But it’s great to see US bicycle manufacturers discovering the belt.

Muscular_Beaver says

December 10, 2010 at 6:26 pm

I have to say , as a daily , year round rider in Maine , whatever sort of corrosive , toxic crap they spew on the roads here to try and keep the idiot car drivers safe from themselves will destroy a chain and derallieur in just a few days . The belt drive , with an internal gear rear hub is a major step in the right direction . Otherwise , I really need to bring my bike inside , and let it thaw next to the wood stove , and then hose it off in the shower …not what I want to do at eight in the evening after a long day at work , and six hours with no meal !

Burgeonyt says

February 24, 2011 at 4:49 pm

Where are all these people getting the idea that chains are more efficient than synchronous belts? The average efficiency of a Gates poly-belt is 98%, and that’s over the LIFETIME of the belt, not just when brand new and in perfect operating conditions. You might get 98% efficiency out of a roller chain when it’s brand new, properly lubricated, correctly tensioned, and the sprockets are in perfect shape. An industrial white paper I read a decade ago said the average roller chain runs about 93% efficient in U.S; that’s probably the reality of all bicycle chains out there as well. Chains have their benefits and drawbacks just as any drive system will; but saying that a chain is more efficient than a synchronous belt drive goes beyond ignorance and borders on propaganda parroting.

March 5, 2011 at 9:52 pm

Bicycle chains are up to 98.6% efficient, according to a 1999 Johns Hopkins University study, compared to Gates’ claim of up to 98% efficiency for their belt. Also, derailer gears tend to be more efficient than internal geared hubs with several gears. So for riders looking for maximum efficiency, a belt driven bike isn’t the best choice.

Belts offer no significant advantages over chains if a full chaincase is used, such as those common on European city bikes. Even without a chaincase, dry chain lubricants work very well to keep chains from transferring dirt and grease to clothing. Chain noise isn’t an issue on the overwhelming majority of reasonably well maintained bikes out there.

Chains are inexpensive and can be replaced very quickly and easily when they wear out, which isn’t all that often. Other regular maintenance typically requires the rear wheel be removed from the bike from time to time during the life of a chain, which is most of the work required to replace a chain (and even wheel removal isn’t always required).

While there is probably a niche market for belt driven bikes, in general they appear to solve only minor problems for which better, more practical solutions already exist. Belts require special frames to do even that much.

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Apr 18, 2016
By Justin Millar

Belt driven

Recently, I was in the market for a new bike. I wanted something for around town that would be good for trips in the two- to eight-mile range that I typically ride. Ideally, I wanted a bike that I could simply grab and go without much worry but that would still be fun to ride.

After some research and thought, I decided to join a few others in our office and purchase a belt-driven, rather than chain-driven, bicycle. The belt system is made by Gates Carbon Drive , who has been a financial supporter of Bicycle Colorado for a number of years. Thank you Gates!

What is Carbon Drive?

The heart of the drive system is the CenterTrack belt. According to Gates, this custom-made carbon fiber belt is stronger than, and as efficient as, a traditional bike chain. The belts are created with stretch-free carbon fiber tensile cords and polyurethane technology, which allows the belt to be weather-resistant, flexible and durable.

The positives

The Gates Carbon Drive system has some great aspects that encouraged me to buy a belt-driven bike. First, it doesn’t require any grease. Since it’s not metal, it doesn’t rust. It requires very little maintenance. The belt weighs less than a chain, doesn’t stretch over time as chains do and lasts twice as long as the average chain. And perhaps most importantly, it’s smooth and remarkably quiet. The promise of smooth, quiet, clean, low-maintenance riding ultimately won me over.

The one negative (if you consider having to buy a new bike a negative!)

The one main drawback of the belt drive is that, since it can’t be taken apart and reattached like a chain can, it requires a belt-compatible frame. Replacing the chain-drive system with a belt system on a bike you already have isn’t practical or recommended (even though after riding one you may want to).

When belt drives first came out, bike manufacturers only used the system on high-end bikes, but recently companies have been integrating them into commuter bikes like the one I bought, a welcome development, I think, since the low-maintenance belt-drive system lends itself well to commuting in various kinds of weather.

So far, I’ve found the Carbon Drive to be exceptionally quiet and smooth. The bike seems to almost glide. I look forward to putting many miles on it.

Who else out there has tried a belt drive? How has your experience been? Please share it in the comments!

About the Author: Justin Millar

Justin handles all our bookkeeping including accounts payable and receivable, helps manage the online store and provides event support. His diverse background provides expertise any number of ways in the office. Justin enjoys riding around Boulder with his young son in tow.

COMMENTS (11)

Edward Rothschild April 18, 2016 at 4:54 pm - Reply

I bought a Spot bike with belt drive and 11 speed hub – love it so far! I am a bit nervous about changing my first flat on rear wheel.

Justin Millar April 21, 2016 at 4:30 pm - Reply

Hi Edward, I too am nervous about changing my rear tire. I almost had to already. On my first ride on the new bike I was looking down at the bike admiring the belt drive system while riding on a bike path when I heard a lot of crunching sound! I didn’t see a whole mess of glass on the path, but I got lucky the glass didn’t puncture a tire. Another reader said she brings her belt drive bike to the shop when she needs to change the rear tire. I think I might do the same. Ride On, Justin

Lisa Seaman April 18, 2016 at 5:08 pm - Reply

Hi, I have a Trek Soho, 8 speed belt drive. I’ve had it 4-5 years. My opinion about the pros are: it doesn’t skip, the shifting is really smooth, it’s usually really quiet, it’s durable. The cons are: it’s really complicated to get the back tire off, so do all you can to avoid flats (new tires, and I use those plastic barriers in my tires). I actually take my bike to the store if I have a flat on the rear tire. And the other con is that sometimes after rain, or when it’s damp, or in the snow, there is a squeaky annoying sound that makes me not want to pedal. I use “slide-all” when this happens, and it gets rid of the annoying sound.

I wish my gearing was lower. I am going to look into getting a smaller “chain-belt-ring” on the front to make my gearing lower.

In general, I like my belt-drive bike!

Justin Millar April 21, 2016 at 4:40 pm - Reply

Hi Lisa, Thanks for the comment. I’m definitely nervous about getting rear flats so I will do what I can to avoid them. Since my bike is still very new I haven’t ridden in any wet weather yet, but when I do I hope the sound you point out isn’t too loud or frustrating. Glad to hear that you like your belt drive! Ride On, Justin

Elizabeth B April 18, 2016 at 7:29 pm - Reply

Glad to hear you like it! A week ago I ordered the same bike (with rack & basket) and am eagerly awaiting shipment. I was considering some similar bikes with dynamo hub-driven lights, but I already have good lights and the price difference was not small.

Justin Millar April 21, 2016 at 4:45 pm - Reply

Hi Elizabeth, I’m glad to hear you’re joining the Priority Club! I hope you love it. One thing I’ve noticed so far is that the handlebars are very aggressive so I might at some point change them to a touch more relaxed type/position, but other than that I love it so far. Let us know what you think once you’ve had it for a bit. Ride On, Justin

Melinda Middleton April 28, 2016 at 7:34 am - Reply

My husband and I have been riding a Co-Motion Tandem with a belt drive for 3 years and love it! It’s clean, quiet, and an endless source of curiosity for folks who stop to admire our bike.

John April 28, 2016 at 11:16 am - Reply

I have a SPOT Five Points, & it’s a great transpo bike. Removing the rear wheel is no more difficult than a fixie. Slime tubes are what you want to avoid thorn flats on the bike path.

Carl April 29, 2016 at 1:14 pm - Reply

I’m commuting daily on a Trek Soho with the 8-speed internal hub. I have the original mudport crank vs. the CenterTrack that you have on your Priortity. I switched to the Gate Carbon Belt drive for my daily commuter because I liked the idea of an all-weather lower maintenance bike. For any of you riders with the internal hub be aware that over time the lubricant will become thicker and will make shifting a bear on cold days. At least that is what I have experienced this winter. I have no issues when it’s above 50 degrees but just dipping into the lower 40’s I don’t always get a swift shift into the next gear immediately ~ talk about spinning. I did find the Shimano lubricant for $11 but it’s pretty involved to bathe the gears to remove the spent lubricant. I’ll wait until next fall to complete that task. One last comment about flat tires; I invest in Michelin City Tires. They have reflective sidewalls and a proprietary compound that helps avoid flats. I went from July 2013 through October 2015 with NO flats, riding daily. I knew it was time to replace them when I got three flats within 2 weeks. I should be good for a few thousand miles again. Ride early and ride often!

Steve May 8, 2018 at 1:38 am - Reply

I’ve put a Spot Five Points through two Wisconsin winters. Three speeds is all I really need on a commuter bike (and they actually work all winter) (and weigh less/are less complex than 8 and 11 speed hubs). The drive belt can be cleaned by pouring water over it but is noisy when wet. The enclosed gears don’t need scrubbing like cogs on a bike with derailleurs. The hydraulic disc brakes can be a little finicky but they stop in all weather. The frame has clearance for fenders and studded tires.

Don February 18, 2022 at 5:09 am - Reply

Is the carbon belt drive a low maintenance drive train? I suppose it depends. I’m a full-time-all-weather Denver commuter and I hate rear derailleurs, bike chains and even the smell of grease. So last Winter I went out and bought two used bicycles off craigslist. One bicycle was a really well made Trek SoHo with an older (non center track) Gates belt drive, drum brakes and a dependable Nexus 8 speed IGH with a push/pull trigger shifter for only $300 – a great deal. And the other bicycle was a Priority Continuum with a center track belt drive, disc brakes, CVT gear box thingy (N330) and twist shifter for $225 – a real steal. Both bikes, both drive trains and both IGHs have their strengths and weaknesses, but when the going got tough and the snow started falling the Nexus with it’s push/pull trigger shifter worked flawlessly in snow, ice and below freezing temperatures, but the CVT with it’s twist shifter failed every time it snowed. The CVT was fine, but the cable interface and the twist shifter would freeze and end up jammed inside the shifter. No bueno. Maybe it’s just me? Maybe it’s the cheap replacement cables that I desperately purchased from Walmart ? Or maybe the cable interface and twist shifter just need to be replaced? But that Priority is anything but maintenance free.

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2022 Trek District commuter bike brings premium belt drive, dynamo hub model to U.S.

2022 Trek District 4 commuter bike with belt drive fenders and hub powered lights

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Already popular in Europe, Trek’s bringing their well-equipped District 4 commuter bicycle to North America for “serious” commuters who appreciate a low-maintenance, well-equipped, and fully-featured city bike.

trek district 4 belt drive commuter bike

Equipped with a clean, quiet Gates CDX Belt Drive, it needs no lube or grease and claims 3x the lifespan of a typical chain.

shimano alfine 8-speed hub on a trek district commuter bicycle

That feeds power into a Shimano Alfine 8-speed internally geared rear hub for easy shifting and a wide gear range. Shimano MT200 hydraulic brakes should be similarly problem free for years.

herrmans lights on a new trek commuter bicycle

Up front, a Shimano 3-Watt dynamo hub powers premium Herrmans MR8 (180-lumen/60lux) front and H-trace Eco rear lights so you won’t ever need to add (or charge) batteries.

trek district step through commuter bike with belt drive

Fenders, a kickstand, and pre-installed rear rack come standard, too. Basically, it’s everything we’d want on a commuter bike, ready to roll straight out of the shop.

trek district step through commuter bike with rear rack and powered lights

The frame is a lightweight aluminum that comes in standard and “Stagger” (step-thru) designs. It rolls on 700x40mm tires, with reflective sidewalls for safety, which should provide the right blend of comfort and speed. Retail is $1,699 USD and has a lifetime warranty on the frame…and they actually have inventory right now at TrekBikes.com .

Disclosure: Some of these links are affiliate links that may earn a small commission for Bikerumor if you click on them and buy something. This helps support our work here without costing you anything extra. You can learn more about how we make money here . Thanks!

Tyler Benedict is the Founder of Bikerumor.com . He has been writing about the latest bikes, components, and cycling technology for almost two decades. Prior to that, Tyler launched and built multiple sports nutrition brands and consumer goods companies, mostly as an excuse to travel to killer riding locations throughout North America.

Based in North Carolina, Tyler loves family adventure travel and is always on the lookout for the next shiny new part to make his bikes faster and lighter.

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I’m not a big brand bike kind of guy, but I love the practical utility of this. It checks most of the boxes for a commuter, errand running, short jaunt kind of bike. Well done.

Hydro discs, gates belt drive, and a dynohub are definitely wins. Still not sold on the Shimano 8 speed internal hub’s durability.. I’ve just seen to many of them explode, but maybe they’ve improved in recent years.

Hmmmm “ they actually have inventory right now” seems wrong. I am seeing them having an ETA June 2022…. Might wanna check that source

I work at Trek, there actually is inventory. Warehouse gets them in mid-late July, which is much sooner that most other bikes

just get a Priority Continuum Its nearly identical but costs $430 less

I wish they had sprung for the alfine 11 spd. The 8 spd has some big jumps between the gears.

I never had problems with derailleurs,but recently got an Alfine 11 after being curious about it forever. It is everything I expected it to be. A big plus is the ability to shift from a stand-still. ..helpful when you are zipping along in high gear, but suddenly get stuck at an intersection and want to get going quicker. These bikes are ok. My style is more of a packback, rechargeable light, removeable fenders, etc,(to cut some weight), as opposed to generator hub/rack,etc. If you want a bike ‘loaded’ , these seem to check all the boxes.

Too bad this is basically identical to a priority continuum but $400 more expensive

I’ve been riding & loving the Priority Continuum Onyx for almost a year. Essentially the same as this (heavy and loaded) except it has continuously variable tranny hub instead of the 8 Alfine. Bulletproof BUT: It can only be operated by a grip shifter which I do not like (wrist action etc…) and cannot be adapted for triggers….. I may switch to the Trek District just to get the trigger shifters back….

Cannot agree more: I’ve been riding my Continuum Onyx trouble-free for over a year (5,000+ miles)…. & love it. But even after a year, I just cannot intuitively adapt to the twist shifter after 30+ years of rapid-fires….. I will likely get this Trek when it hits my local bike shop for that reason alone….

why would I ever buy this when I can get the nearly identical (it actually has better lights then the trek and a usb phone charging port) Priority Continuum Onyx for $430 less

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Board index Cycling Bikes & Bits – Technical section

Belt drive slipping on Trek Soho?

Post by Macc_Bob » 24 Feb 2011, 11:23am

Re: Belt drive slipping on Trek Soho?

Post by geocycle » 24 Feb 2011, 12:41pm

Post by Macc_Bob » 24 Feb 2011, 12:50pm

Post by gilesjuk » 24 Feb 2011, 1:21pm

Post by AndyA » 24 Feb 2011, 2:07pm

Post by Macc_Bob » 24 Feb 2011, 2:14pm

Post by Elizabethsdad » 24 Feb 2011, 8:53pm

Post by Macc_Bob » 23 Nov 2012, 9:33am

Post by [XAP]Bob » 23 Nov 2012, 12:22pm

Post by Malaconotus » 24 Nov 2012, 1:16am

Post by Littgull » 24 Nov 2012, 6:46am

Post by LollyKat » 24 Nov 2012, 10:31am

Littgull wrote: I remain amazed that belt drive bikes (particularly with hub gears) have not become more widely popular.

Post by BeeKeeper » 24 Nov 2012, 11:16am

Post by mig » 24 Nov 2012, 11:47am

Post by Brucey » 24 Nov 2012, 12:00pm

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"With a belt drive, quick-stopping hydraulic brakes, and an available step-through version (called Stagger), it highlights the reason so many of us prefer to commute by bike: the joy of motion."

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Bridging the towns of rutherfordton, spindale and forest city, the thermal belt rail trail is connecting great communities. enjoy:.

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Placed at each parking area, there are seven total throughout the trail. Each contains useful information including the map, safety, history, site specific info and more.

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Mile 10.5 @ Harris St/Callison Rec. Center

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Mile 10.7 @ Harris St/Callison Rec. Center

Mile 11.2 @ POPS

Transit Stop - M-F 7:45am-5pm - FREE

Mile 5 @ Green St.

Mile 6.1 @ McDonald's

Mile 6.6 @ North Oak St.

Senior Center/Rutherford County Walking Path

Isothermal Community College

Mile 10.2 @ Grace of God Rescue Mission

Mile 12.3 @ Food Lion

Water Fountain

Mile 6.5

Paved Trails / Walking Paths

Thermal Belt Rail Trail

Natural Trails

Bechtle Mint Site Historic Park

PARKING AREAS

Trail rules.

FIREARMS AND OTHER WEAPONS ARE PROHIBITED*

*Concealed Carry Permit Holders under North Carolina Law 14-269 allowed

NO LOITERING

NO POSTING OF SIGNS WITHOUT PERMISSION

NO MOTORIZED VEHICLES ALLOWED

Except for motorized wheelchairs, electric, pedal-assisted bikes that meet the provisions of federal electric bicycle law HR 727

Pets other than dogs and cats are prohibited

Dogs and cats on the trail must be supervised by owner at all times and are their sole responsibility

Dogs & cats must be on a leash 6' or less

Owners are responsible for bagging & removing any pet waste

HOURS OF OPERATION

The Thermal Belt Rail Trail is open dawn to dusk

trail safety

For emergencies call or text 911. Include your location/nearest cross street.

Travel on right, pass on left; Give audible warning before passing.

Speed limit is 15 miles per hour.

Respect nature. Please do not collect, remove or disturb a natural orcultural object.

Littering is illegal with fines up to $1,500. If you pack it in, pack it out.

Trail surfaces are slippery when wet.

For your safety please walk with a friend.

All bicyclists, roller skaters, etc. are encouraged to wear a helmet and protective gear. Any child under the age of 16 riding a bicycle shall wear a helmet as required by NCGS 20-171.

Trail users should refrain from leaving the paved portion of the trail.

Stop, look and listen at all road crossings. Use caution when proceeding into any intersection even when using a marked crosswalk.

Minors under the age of 16 are recommended to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Reckless use of wheeled recreational vehicles, including but not limited to bicycles, skates, skateboards, or roller blades is prohibited.

Please be courteous to your fellow trail users and refrain from smoking or vaping.

Watch for official motorized vehicles like government or emergency vehicles performing occasional maintenance or matters of public safety.

attention trail users

Users of the Thermal Belt Rail Trail do so at their own risk. The Towns of Ruth, Rutherfordton, Spindale, Forest City, the County of Rutherford, and Rutherford Railroad Development Corporation are not liable for any injuries or accidents occurring during use of the trail. By using the trail, users release and waive said entities from any liability whatsoever that may arise during use of the trail.

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV, in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

Godzillas Hostel is one of our favourites in Moscow but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees.
Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic!

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
Cost: USD $15.00
Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
Cost: Free!
Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
Cost: USD $8.00
Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
Cost: Free to enter
Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
Cost: USD $5.00
Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for!

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture!

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
Cost: Free!
Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months. A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov. The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner!

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres.
Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics.

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 – USD $228.00 based on seat location.
Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
This museum is fun for both adults and children!
Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

Television and radio tower in Moscow
Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

Closed on Mondays
Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy!

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage and Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided! Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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Theatres in Moscow

Cultural life of Moscow city is various and rich! Operas, ballets, symphonic concerts... Russian composers have created some of the most beautiful classical music. Russian classical music is very popular in Moscow. It is performed in many beautiful historical venues. Do not forget to include a visit to a concert hall in your itinerary when you are planning your stay in Moscow! And do it in advance.

There are almost no restrictions on dress code in Russian theatres. Visitors may wear jeans and sports shoes, they may have a backpack with them. Only shorts are not allowed.

A typical feature of Russian theatre – visitors are bringing a lot of flowers which they present to their favorite performers after the show.

Here are some practical advices where to go and how to buy tickets.

The Bolshoi Theatre

The Bolshoi Theatre is the oldest, the most famous and popular opera and ballet theatre in Russia. The word “Bolshoi” means “big” in Russian. You can buy a ticket online in advance, 2-3 months before the date of performance on the official website . Prices for famous ballets are high: 6-8 thousand rubles for a seat in stalls. Tickets to operas are cheaper: you can get a good seat for 4-5 thousand rubles. Tickets are cheaper for daytime performances and performances on the New Stage. The New Stage is situated in the light-green building to the left of the Bolshoi's main building. The quality of operas and ballets shown on the New Stage is excellent too. However, you should pay attention that many seats of the Bolshoi’s Old and New Stages have limited visibility . If you want to see the Bolshoi’s Old Stage but all tickets are sold out, you can order a tour of the theatre. You can book such a tour on the official website.

If you want, following Russian tradition, to give flowers to the performers at the end of the show, in the Bolshoi flowers should be presented via special staff who collects these flowers in advance.

In August the Bolshoi is closed.

The Stanislavsky and Nemirovich-Danchenko Music Theatre

This theatre is noteworthy. On one hand, it offers brilliant classical opera and ballet performances. On the other hand, it is an experimental venue for modern artists. You can check the program and buy tickets online here http://stanmus.com/ . If you are opera lover, get a ticket to see superstar Hibla Gerzmava . The theatre has a very beautiful historic building and a stage with a good view from every seat. Tickets are twice cheaper than in the Bolshoi.

The Novaya Opera

“Novaya” means “New” in Russian. This opera house was founded in 1991 by a famous conductor Eugene Kolobov. Its repertoire has several directions: Russian and Western classics, original shows and divertissements, and operas of the 20th and 21st centuries. It is very popular with Muscovites for excellent quality of performances, a comfortable hall, a beautiful Art Nouveau building and a historic park Hermitage, which is situated right next to it. You can buy tickets online here http://www.novayaopera.ru/en .

Galina Vishnevskaya Opera Center

The Opera Center has become one of the best theatrical venues in Moscow. It was founded in 2002 by great diva Galina Vishnevskaya. Nowadays its artistic director is Olga Rostropovich, daughter of Galina Vishnevskaya and her husband Mstislav Rostropovich, great cellist and conductor. Not only best young opera singers perform here, but also world music stars do; chamber and symphonic concerts, theatrical productions and musical festivals take place here. You can see what is on the program here http://opera-centre.ru/theatre . Unfortunately “booking tickets online” is available in Russian only. If you need help, you can contact us at and we can book a ticket for you.

Tchaikovsky Concert Hall and The Great Hall of Moscow Conservatory

These are two major concert halls for symphonic music in Moscow. Both feature excellent acoustics, impressive interior, various repertoire and best performers. You can check the program here http://meloman.ru/calendar/ . You need just to switch to English. Booking tickets online is available only for owners of Russian, Ukrainian and Belorussian phone numbers. If you need help, you can contact us and we can book a ticket for you.

Moscow International Performing Arts Center (MIPAC)

This modern and elegant concert hall houses performances of national and foreign symphony orchestras, chamber ensembles, solo instrumentalists, opera singers, ballet dancers, theatre companies, jazz bands, variety and traditional ensembles. Actually, it has three concert halls placed on three different levels and having separate entrances. The President of MIPAC is People’s Artist of the USSR Vladimir Spivakov, conductor of “Virtuosy Moskvy” orchestra. You can see pictures of the concert halls here http://www.mmdm.ru/en/content/halls . The program is impressive in its variety but is not translated into English. You can contact us at and we can find a performance for you.

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Soho
Trek Urban, alloy, 620mm. Stem. Bontrager Soho, 15 degree. Headset. Aheadset Slimstak w/semi-cartridge bearings, sealed. Brakeset. Shimano IM50, roller brake w/Tektro alloy levers. We reserve the right to make changes to the product information contained on this site at any time without notice, including with respect to equipment ...
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Trek Belt Driven Bikes: District and Soho
So, when I saw the new Trek District and Soho, I instantly thought "GAME CHANGER." Trek has gone all Mavericky on us and dropped the ubiquitous chain for a new carbon fiber belt driven system on both bikes. According to their website, "The belt drive is a carbon fiber composite belt reinforced to prevent stretch.
Trek Soho Commuter Bike user reviews : 4 out of 5
List price £700 GBP. Got the 2009 Soho S with carbon fibre belt drive via cyclescheme, hence price difference. Main purpose is daily 8.5 mile round trip commute to work. Initial impression very positive, gear shift positive, brakes effective, very little noise, belt drive much quieter than a chain, effortless steering.
'09 Trek Soho
Here's my build of a 2009 Trek Soho. It's the gates belt drive, Shimano 8 speed internal geared hub, Luna Wolfpack battery with Panasonic cells, and a 52v Tong Sheng TSDZ2 mid drive. It's marketed as a 52v 750w motor. The fortunate part of this was that by moving the 55t front chain ring to the inside of the 130bcd chainring
Trek Soho Deluxe (2012) Specs
View product specifications: Trek Soho Deluxe 2012 - View Reviews, Specifications, Prices, Comparisons and Local Bike Shops. ... Stronger, lighter, and cleaner than any chain. Belt Drive is low-maintenance urban simplicity at its best. Light The Gates Carbon Drive belt is a carbon-composite one-piece design, at least 300 grams lighter than any ...
2009 Trek Soho
2009 Trek. Soho. A 700c aluminum frame general urban bike with high-end components and rim brakes. Compare the full range. Frame: Aluminum: Suspension: Rigid: Fork: Aluminum: Wheels: 700c Aluminum: Drivetrain: ... C-Drive 24T alloy belt sprocket. Brakes: Shimano IM50, roller brake w/Tektro alloy levers.
Trek Superfly Pro and Soho Deluxe
Belt drive and internal gearing on the Soho Deluxe creates the perfect match for commuting. Trek's Soho Deluxe promises ultra-low maintenance for the time-strapped urban commuter. The Gates Carbon ...
Trek Soho 4.0 commuter review
Trek Soho 4.0 commuter review - BikeRadar. Urban commuter equally comfortable in tails or Chuck Taylors.
20" TREK Soho Belt Drive Commuter Bike ~5'9"-6'0"
20" TREK Soho Belt Drive Commuter Bike ~5'9"-6'0" Alternative Views: Our Price: $ 485.00. Product Code: 07190057 : Trek pulled out all the stops when they designed this sweet commuter bike! The Trek Soho Deluxe Commuter hybrid bike has been tuned & is ready for that mission to the store, your commute, or just down the bike path for fun. ...
Trek Soho review
The Gates belt drive system is combined with Shimano's Nexus eight-speed hub gear, front and rear Nexave roller brakes slow things down, and all the contact points are from Bontrager's Nebula range. ... Braking issues aside, what Trek have achieved with the Soho is admirable, taking what could be quite a bland hybrid template and creating a ...
Belt Drive Bicycles
Trek thought so, too, and they've introduced the Trek Soho. Gates Technology, same company that makes the belts for Harley Davidson, makes the belt for the bike. The Soho comes with an 8 speed transmission inside the rear hub, no derailleur involved. No more greasy fingers when getting the chain back on the gears, no more cleaning a dirty ...
Belt driven
So last Winter I went out and bought two used bicycles off craigslist. One bicycle was a really well made Trek SoHo with an older (non center track) Gates belt drive, drum brakes and a dependable Nexus 8 speed IGH with a push/pull trigger shifter for only $300 - a great deal.
2022 Trek District commuter bike brings premium belt drive ...
Already popular in Europe, Trek's bringing their well-equipped District 4 commuter bicycle to North America for "serious" commuters who appreciate a low-maintenance, well-equipped, and fully-featured city bike. Equipped with a clean, quiet Gates CDX Belt Drive, it needs no lube or grease and claims 3x the lifespan of a typical chain.
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Belt-drive multi-speed rear hub gear on a Trek Soho. A belt-driven bicycle is a chainless bicycle that uses a flexible belt, typically a synchronous toothed design, in order to transmit power from the pedals to the wheel. The application of belt drives to bicycles is growing, especially in the commuter bicycle market, due to the low maintenance ...
Belt drive slipping on Trek Soho?
I'm another proud 'member' of the Trek Soho belt drive (hub geared) owners club. I bought my bike in May 2010 from Leisure Lakes, Bury (ordered in - not a stocked bike). I have clocked up over 8000 miles in that time almost entirely on my regular 22 mile daily round trip commute from Littleborough to Bury and back.
District 4 Equipped
10 Reviews / Write a Review. $1,749.99. Model 1050970. Retailer prices may vary. District 4 Equipped is a hip and stylish high-end city bike designed for fun on cruises, commutes, and trips around town. It has a quiet, low-maintenance Gates CDX belt drive system with an 8-speed Shimano Alfine internal hub for smooth, crisp shifting. Compare.
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A fixed-gear bicycle An 18-tooth sprocket that attaches to the rear hub of fixed-gear bike Track sprockets are typically attached and removed from the hub by screwing them with a chain whip.This tool incorporates a lockring spanner for securing a reverse threaded lockring against the sprocket. A fixed-gear bicycle (or fixed-wheel bicycle in British usage, [citation needed] commonly known in ...
Map Legend / Parking Areas / Trail Rules
Trail Rules. Bridging the towns of Rutherfordton, Spindale and Forest City, the Thermal Belt Rail Trail is connecting great communities. Enjoy: 13.58 Miles Long of Converted Railway. 12' Wide Paved Trail. Gentle Elevation Changes — 1500-1621. Walk, Run, Bike, Commute. Seven Devoted Parking Areas. Natural Canopy Provides Shade .
EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024 Guide)
EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024) Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit! Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city ...
Theatres in Moscow
Galina Vishnevskaya Opera Center. The Opera Center has become one of the best theatrical venues in Moscow. It was founded in 2002 by great diva Galina Vishnevskaya. Nowadays its artistic director is Olga Rostropovich, daughter of Galina Vishnevskaya and her husband Mstislav Rostropovich, great cellist and conductor.

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Belt drive slipping on Trek Soho?

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