The Trek Madone is an aero road bike with a lightweight carbon fibre frame, aerodynamic design and is built to be the ultimate speed machine. The Madone is one of my all-time favourite race bikes. We love them at The Bicycle Chain and have sold them since the first version was released in 2003.
Several generations in the making, the Madone is Trek’s aero focused, drag defying race bike. It feels unfair though to simply label it an aero bike.
There’s no doubt you can feel the advantages of its aerodynamic design as it cuts through the air with relative ease and whilst this is absolutely the bike you would choose if speed is your top priority, the Madone is also outstandingly light and forgiving for an aero bike. The holy grail of bike design.
Oh, did I mention it’s so stunning you could hang it on the wall!
So, if you’re a speed demon at heart, head down, bum up, get everywhere as fast as humanly possible, the Madone is right for you.
The Madone Gen 7 is available in carbon fibre frame options only and comes in two frame versions the SL and the lighter weight SLR.
The Trek Madone SLR models have the highest specification carbon, Trek’s patented OCLV 800 series. Recorded as 30% stronger than the superseded 700 series, it allows Trek to use less in certain areas, reducing weight whilst maintaining stiffness and reliability. All SLR models also come with the beautiful fully integrated one-piece carbon handlebar and stem, for the ultimate clean aerodynamic finish. SLR is the very best Trek has to offer, the pinnacle.
Three different specifications of SLR are available, SLR6, SLR 7 and SLR 9. The higher the model number the higher the specification, all models are fitted with electronic groupsets, they range from entry level Shimano 105 groupsets to Shimano Dura-ace and Sram AXS groupsets as ridden by the pro’s.
The Trek Madone SL frame uses the 500 series OCLV which adds weight over the SLR but makes the Madone price tag more accessible. SL models come with a regular bar and stem as opposed to the integrated SLR system, a broader range of fit options can be achieved with easier adjustment and this again lowers the initial investment.
Two different specifications of SL are available, SL 6 and SL 7. The higher number has a higher specification. The SL6 features a Shimano 105 Di2 groupset and the SL7 is upgraded to a Shimano Ultegra Di2 groupset.
Obviously, we’d all really love the top spec model, for most of us, this isn’t attainable financially or justifiable for our current level of ability.
For those that can afford the fastest Madone money can buy, the SLR 9 is a full-blown replica team bike. A no expense spared superbike just like the pro’s ride. Complete with power meter cranks this is the ultimate bike for those wanting the very best.
A tougher decision faces those where there is an overlap between the SLR and Sl models.
The Gen 7 SLR 7 and the SL 7 are very similar in price. The SLR 7 has the better frame, the higher grade 800 series lighter carbon and one-piece carbon handlebar and stem but compromises on the groupset, Shimano 105 di2 electronic gears.
The SL7 comes with the 500 series frame and two-piece handlebar setup but gets the higher specification Ultegra di2 groupset.
Personally, the one piece handlebar and stem setup finish this bike off so perfectly I think they’re worth the extra and you can always upgrade the groupset later. The only drawback is you’re fixed with stem length and bar width unless you buy through the Trek Project One Program allowing full customisation. Bear this in mind if you’re someone who sits well outside the normal range here.
All Madone Gen 7 models, SL and SLR come with Bontrager carbon wheels, IsoFlow seat tube, invisible cable routing… and what feels like free speed!
The Trek Madone is certainly light for an aero road bike. Designed for the ultimate aerodynamics and speed. If you are just focusing on weight, you should take a look Trek's lightweight climbing bike the Emonda.
The Trek Madone and Trek Domane are both great bikes in their own right but each with their own unique strengths. The Trek Madone sacrifices rider comfort and compliance when compared to the Domane in order to gain improved aerodynamics. The Madone excels at sustained high speeds on rolling courses while the Domane provides supreme rider comfort for all day rides in addition to the versatility to tackle rougher surfaces with ease.
The Trek Madone and Emonda are both exceptional road bikes in their own right, but each excels in different areas. The Madone is the weapon of choice for those totally focused on outright speed while the Emonda is incredibly lightweight and known for its climbing ability.
The Madone is an aero bike not a climbing bike. Whilst it climbs well for what it is, the Emonda is the climbing bike in Trek’s road bike line up.
The Trek Madone is an aero bike offering unmatched aerodynamics with less consideration for rider comfort. the Domane is Trek's endurance road bike.
The Madone SLR 9 is the lightest model available, a 54cm weighs in at 7.10 kg / 15.66 lbs.
The Trek Madone SLR and SL has a maximum weight limit of 125 kg or 275 lb. That includes bicycle at 7.10 kg / 15.66 lbs ( size 54cm), rider and kit.
Author: Alex Kenchington
