Trek Unveils Aluminum Emonda ALR

After putting a ton of effort into consolidating their carbon fiber product line these last few years with a stable of very well acquainted race bikes: Madone, Domane and Emonda, it looks like Trek is back in the performance aluminum game with a new model that borrows the name of the lightweight Emonda climber (no, other than the name, there is nothing in the way of comparison between the carbon and aluminum bikes).

The timing is good (if not a tad tardy) owing to the huge jump in aluminum hype that close competitors Cannondale and Specialized have made with their CAAD and Allez series of bikes.  To those models we could also add the Jamis and Bianchi aluminum bikes which have proven especially impressive in the last year of testing.

Not much more is known about the aluminum bikes other than what was released here. Trek is planning a new bike launch at the Tour de France which could either be the official roll-out of these bikes, or perhaps a new carbon bike.

Trek’s  Émonda ALR FAQ’s

* What is ALR? Building upon the legacy and success of the Émonda lineup, we bring the same level of class leading weight, ride quality, and attention to detail down to aluminum price points. Don’t be fooled though – these are phenomenally light and great riding bikes. This level of performance will make you seriously rethink what is capable with aluminum. 

* Does ALR come with complete gruppos? As with every other Émonda model, every ALR comes with complete gruppos. This means that if you order the Émonda ALR 5, with Shimano 105, it is going to come with a 105 chain, cassette, crank, brakes, derailleurs, and shifters. You’re welcome.

 * What is ‘Invisible Weld Technology’? This is actually pretty cool. A revolutionary welding technology used on the frame allows for less material used in the welding process, while simultaneously increasing strength and the connection. The results are smooth and flawless seams, stronger bonds between the frame’s tubes, premium aesthetics, and decreased frame weight.  

* How much do the framesets weigh? Émonda ALR comes in at a 1050g for a 56cm unpainted frame, with the painted fork weighing 358g with a 240mm long steerer tube. 

*  What do the ALR models weigh? Émonda ALR 5 weighs 18.77lbs (8.51kg) and ALR 6 weighs 17.25lbs (7.82kg) 

* How are the models set up? All Émonda models are organized by their frame level and drivetrain build. The frame levels are S, SL, SLR, and the new ALR. The number that follows the frame designation represents the drivetrain spec.
 4 – Shimano Tiagra
 5 – Shimano 105 5800
 6 – Shimano Ultegra 6800
 8 – Shimano Dura-Ace 9000 mechanical
 9 – Shimano Dura-Ace 9070 Di2
 10 – The pinnacle of lightweight, featuring SRAM Red 

For example, on the Émonda ALR 6, the ALR designates the premium ALR frame and fork, while the 6 designates the complete Ultegra gruppo.

* What forks come on the bikes? Both ALR 5 and ALR 6 come with the Émonda SL fork. This 358g fork (painted, 240mm steerer tube) features our tapered E2 technology and utilizes full carbon construction including a carbon steerer tube. This creates a great riding front end with laser-precise steering, all in an ultra-lightweight package. 

* Does ALR work with DuoTrap S? Yes. One advantage of this second generation speed and cadence sensor is that it can be integrated into aluminum frames, so we wanted to take full advantage of this technology on a bike with this much performance capability. Furthermore, the DuoTrap S offers Bluetooth and ANT+ connectivity and offers optimal aesthetics, weight, and aerodynamics. Plus, it means zero zip ties to rub your frame, no sensors moving around and losing contact with the magnet, and nothing to fall off mid-ride.  

* What fit and geometry does ALR come in? All ALR bikes come with Émonda’s popular H2 fit and geometry. 

* Does ALR have a rider weight limit? Just like every other Trek road frame, the rider weight limit is 275lbs. 

* What is ALR’s warranty? Just as with every one of our road bikes, Trek backs its lightest aluminum road bike with the best warranty in the world – lifetime.

For more: Trek Bicycles