Trek Emonda ALR5 disc

£1750

IT’S A LOOKER

The ALR5 doesn’t look like your average aluminium bike. With the combination of complex hydro-formed aluminium tubes and welds (that don’t look like welds) you’d be forgiven for thinking the understated primer grey ALR was made from carbon. That, along with the bike’s shape that follows the traditional two triangle form rather than the latest trend towards dropped rear-stays, sets this Emonda apart.

IT’S LIGHT, AND NOT JUST FOR ALLOY

The ALR frame weighs in at a claimed 1131g plus 350g for the fork (stated weight on the 56cm size) and for a bike at under two grand that’s impressive. The 9.15kg overall weight doesn’t sound low but, thankfully, the ALR5 rides like a much lighter machine offering sprightly responses on rolling terrain and a positive, lively feel on the climbs.

IT’S A VALUE PACKED BLAST TO RIDE

Trek’s geometry on the Emonda follows a sporty yet not-overly-aggressive position. You can hunker down in the drops and go for it if you want, but it feels just as positive when up on the hoods taking in your surroundings. The drivetrain and brakes are full Shimano and they worked flawlessly throughout our testing. The Bontrager finishing kit is all of a standard above what you’d expect at this price. In all, it’s a sweetly balanced blend of speed and stability and a truly great all rounder.

ONE THING WE’D CHANGE SADDLE SORE

The saddle is both firm and squishy and never quite agreed with this tester; but saddles are a personal thing. We’d like to see the wheelset completed with a set of bigger tubeless tyres, rather than the slim 25cs fitted here, as it would add to the Emonda’s already smooth accomplished ride while offering a bit more comfort over rougher surfaces.