First Ride: 2019 Trek Emonda ALR Disc
Another addition to the Emonda series
2019 Trek Emonda ALR Disc
In 2015 Trek introduced the Emonda ALR, it was designed to be the lightest production bike on the market. Hydroformed tubes, invisible weld technology and Trek’s 300 Series Alpha Aluminum pushed the limits of lightweight alloy bikes. Trek’s methods reopened the market of aluminum frames with a surge from manufacturers of new alloy bikes over the last 3 years.
The 2019 Emonda ALR marks the next big step in the ALR line, with the inclusion of a disc frameset. The new model includes 12mm thru axles and massive tire clearance. Flat mount disc brakes and internal cable routing complement the already sleek aesthetics.
Trek sent us a hypothetical build, it included Ultegra R8070 Di2 Disc components($1910.99), Bontrager Aeolus XXX 2 Disc wheels ($2399.98), XXX VR-C bars ($349.99), a XXX Blendr Stem ($349.99) and a XXX seatpost ($199.99). We don’t know who would put over $5000 of parts on an aluminum frame, but the Emonda ALR is worthy of them.
First Ride
We started on a steady climb, the Emonda felt well balanced helping us maintain our effort throughout. When pedaling out of the saddle, the power transfer was exceptional, the bike responded quickly thanks to its low weight. The hydroformed tubes made the bike remarkably compliant, reducing the vibrations of the road relative to other aluminum frames. The front end is very stiff and the large tires help in aiding the compliance. The Emonda ALR is billed as a lightweight climbing bike so what surprised us most is how it cornered on rails. It allowed us to hammer our local curvy descents with confidence even as the corners tighten.
Impressed when we saw it, blown away when we rode it, Trek has done it again. The 2019 Emonda ALR Disc rides like high-end carbon for the price of an alloy. At $959.99 it is an economical starting point for a frame upgrade or a new bike build. Complete bikes will top out at 1889.99 with a 105 build but as our bike is proof, that is in no means its limit.
2019 Emonda ALR Disc Frame Stats
Weight: 1131g (56 cm)
Price: $959.99
Full Build Price:
Emonda ALR 5 Disc $1,889.99
Emonda ALR 5 Disc Women’s $1,889.99
Emonda ALR 5 $1,579.99
Emonda ALR 4 Disc $1,679.99
Emonda ALR 4 $1,359.99
Emonda ALR Frameset $959.99
Website: Trekbikes.com
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