With a weight of just 6.89 kg and the slightly more relaxed H2 geometry, the Trek Émonda SLR 8 Disc Project One is in line to take over the endurance throne. With its “Radioactive Yellow” finish it definitely stands out in our test field – the ultimate Safety-First look. But will it still shine at the end of our test?
For an overview of the test fleet head to the main article: What’s the best road bike of 2018? – 12 race bikes put to the test
Trek offers the Émonda with two geometry options. We already had a chance to test the aggressive H1 geometry at the Trek launch in the U.S.A., so for our test we decided to give the pro version a miss and opted for the more relaxed H2 version which is recommended for non-professional riders. The preconfigured one-click option with a custom paint finish is the introduction to Trek’s Project One universe. Our test bike features a mechanical Shimano Dura-Ace group, 160 mm disc rotors front and rear, a Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3 wheelset, Bontrager XXX VR-C carbon handlebars, and an integrated seatpost. In this configuration, the Trek Émonda SLR 8 Disc weighs just 6.89 kg in size 56 and costs € 7,099 in the custom “Radioactive Yellow” finish. However, Trek’s Project One configurator gives you plenty of options to individualise the spec and the paint finish of your bike.
Racing saddle for a more racy feeling
Shimano Di2
For just € 100 extra, for example, you can configure your Trek with a Shimano Ultegra Di2 group which improves both the performance and the looks of the Émonda – an upgrade we highly recommend! The mechanical version of the Dura-Ace is definitely race-ready, but the chunky hoods clash with the overall aesthetics of the bike. The Émonda offers a number of great details such as the built-in cadence sensor (inside the frame) and a nicely integrated chain catcher.
Thanks to its low weight and efficient frame, the Émonda climbs well while offering lots of comfort. The sprint performance is good, but unfortunately lacks a touch of liveliness despite its stiff wheelset.
On downhills the Émonda inspires confidence and feels predictable. The hydraulic Dura-Ace brakes with 160 mm discs offer great modulation and make you feel in control in every situation. Since the slightly more relaxed riding position of the H2 geometry shifts your weight towards the rear wheel, the choice of 160 mm brake discs (front and rear) allows for very reliable and balanced braking performance.
When it comes to comfort, the Émonda is well ahead of the competition. The H2 geometry makes for a more upright and relaxed riding position, while the integrated seat post absorbs all shocks and bumps efficiently. Thanks to the sloping top tube, the seatpost becomes effectively longer and this means that when it’s extended (79 cm seat height for size 56) it can sway lightly. Since the cables disappear into the ports far down the downtube, large cable loops can interfere with your knees as soon as you get out of the saddle.
When it comes to comfort, the Émonda is well ahead of the competition. The H2 geometry makes for a more upright and relaxed riding position, while the integrated seat post absorbs all shocks and bumps efficiently.
The Trek Emonda SLR 8 Disc in detail
Drivetrain Shimano Dura Ace
Wheelset Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3
Brakes Shimano Dura Ace
Tires Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite
Weight 6.89 kg
Price € 7,099
The geometry of the Trek Emonda SLR 8 Disc
Conclusion
The Trek SLR 8 Disc is the one endurance racer which really succeeds in combining comfort and performance. In the more relaxed H2 configuration the Émonda doesn’t claim to win races or sprints, but just wants you to arrive safely. The Trek Émonda SLR 8 Disc makes long rides easy, and its weight of just 6.89 kg gives it a nimble and lively character on demanding mountain stages. The numerous configuration options of the Project One Program allow you to customise the Émonda to your liking and give you the option of choosing a more race-oriented setup at any time. Bring on L’Etape du Tour!
Top
– Project One individualisation options
– Comfort
Flop
– Cable routing with zip-ties on the fork
– Cable routing: Cable entry-ports on the downtube and big cable loops
– Shimano Dura-Ace hoods on the hydraulic brakes and mechanical shifters
Uphill
Downhill
Sprint
For more info head to: trekbikes.com
For an overview of the test fleet head to the main article:: What’s the best road bike of 2018? – 12 race bikes put to the test
For an overview of the test fleet head to the main article: What’s the best road bike of 2018? – 12 race bikes put to the test
All bikes in the test: 3T Strada | BMC Teammachine SLR 01 Disc Team | Canyon Aeroad CF SLX Disc 9.0 Di2 | Corratec EVO eTap Konfi | Fuji SL 1.1 | Rose X-Lite 6 eTap | Scott Addict RC Ultimate Disc | Specialized S-Works Tarmac 2018 | Speedvagen Road | Standert Triebwerk Mach 3 | Wilier Superleggera SL
This article is from GRAN FONDO issue #008
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Words: Manuel Buck, Robin Schmitt, Benjamin Topf Photos: Noah Haxel
