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  • Fork Bontrager
  • Hubs Shimano Tiagra
  • Crank Bontrager Select, 30/42/52 teeth
  • Handlebar Bontrager Sport
  • Saddle Bontrager Race Lux
  • Headset Aheadset Slimstak

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trek 1200 alpha series road bike

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2004 Trek 1200

trek 1200 alpha series road bike

An aluminum frame general road bike with mid-range components and rim brakes.

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A bike with lower gearing will be easier to ride up steep hills, while a higher top end means it will pedal faster down hills.

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Trek 1200 Alpha Series Road Bike

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Trek 1.2 road bike

The 1.2 is the middle of Trek's three 1 Series aluminium road bikes, sitting between the Shimano Claris-equipped 1.1 (£575) and the 1.5 (£750), which comes with Shimano Tiagra components.

Is it the right bike for you? We've picked out four reasons why it might be, along with a reason that might make you think twice.

1 It provides solid performance with few surprises

The 1.2 puts in a solid performance out on the road, offering a stable, predictable ride, the only real disappointment being the lack of braking power (see below).

trek 1200 alpha series road bike

Hitting the scales at 9.48kg (20.9lb), the 1.2 isn't as lively as many lighter bikes, but for £650 this is certainly a decent enough weight. Compared to bikes of a similar price, it accelerates well. You'll find a little more flex in the frame and fork than in higher level models in Trek's range, but this is a bike that's well capable of holding its own when you crank up the power.

You could't say that the 1.2 is the fastest climber but it's far from sluggish when things get lumpy. It's helped in its hill-climbing endeavours by a compact chainset (with 50-tooth and 34-tooth chainrings rather than 52 or 53 and 39). Most bikes of this price come with something similar these days. Matched up to an 11-28-tooth cassette, it'll allow you to get up the vast majority of gradients without your knees popping or your lungs bursting, while still providing enough big gears to keep you bowling along quickly on the flat and downhill.

trek 1200 alpha series road bike

Aluminium frames have a reputation for feeling harsh but that's a gross generalisation. Some are jarring – as some carbon frames are – but plenty aren't. This bike is certainly comfortable enough for racking up the big miles.

For a start, it comes in Trek's H2 fit. That requires a brief explanation. Compared to Trek's H1 fit, H2 has a taller head tube: 3cm taller in the case of our 58cm test model. Why? It puts you into a more upright riding position with less strain on your lower back and neck. You could achieve a similar position by adding a bunch of headset spacers on an H1 bike, but if you want your bars at that height, you're better off going for an H2 fit because the front end will be stiffer and the handling will be better.

trek 1200 alpha series road bike

The Bontrager Race VR-C alloy handlebar has a shallower drop than usual too: 124mm rather than the 145mm you get on Bontrager's Race Lite Classic, for example. That means it's that much easier to get down on the drops. A lot of people have a bar with a deep drop and rarely take their hands off the hoods.

The other reason for the comfort is that the 1.2 is inherently pretty smooth. Sure, there are plenty of bikes out there that will filter our more road vibration but this one does a decent enough job on that front. Swapping the 23mm tyres for 25s would add more comfort but this bike isn't crying out for them by any means.

trek 1200 alpha series road bike

The Bontrager Gel Cork bar tape provides good cushioning for your hands and the Bontrager Affinity 1 saddle has plenty of padding too. Truth be told, I found it a little too soft, verging on squidgy, but everyone has their own taste when it comes to saddles.

2 You get a neat, well-proven frame and fork

All three bikes in the 1 Series share the same 100 Series Alpha Aluminium frame. It's fairly busy looking with a squared off upper edge to the down tube that makes it resemble that of Trek's more costly Madone.

The top tube slopes towards the seat tube junction and tapers down as it does so, and slim seatstays provide compliance at the back.

trek 1200 alpha series road bike

You get mounts for a mudguard and a rack back there too. They'll be useful if you want to ride the bike year round and perhaps carry stuff to and from work on a daily commute.

You don't get the oversized bottom bracket or tapered head tube that are regular features designed to add stiffness to higher-end performance bikes, but this is a £650 bike and the frame is good for the money. The welds are pretty tidy throughout and the same can be said of the paint job.

trek 1200 alpha series road bike

The fork is Trek's own with carbon blades and an alloy steerer. Like the frame, it comes with eyelets for fitting mudguards that will save a lot of faffing.

It's worth noting that the Trek 1.2 is available in eight sizes from 47cm up to 62cm. That range will cover nearly everyone.

3 Shimano's Sora shifters and mechs are excellent for the money

Nine-speed Sora is Shimano's fifth tier road groupset (if you don't count the electronic variants) and it offers fantastic value for money.

trek 1200 alpha series road bike

Back in the olden days (before last year), you changed gear on Sora by pushing the brake lever to the side or by using a small thumb lever on the side of the shifter body, depending on the direction you wanted to shift.

Now, though, Sora levers are Dual Control, so instead of that thumb lever, there's a lever tucked behind the brake lever. It's the same design that Shimano use right up to top-level Dura-Ace and it's a big improvement, making it far easier to change gear from the drops.

trek 1200 alpha series road bike

Resting your hands on the hoods is comfortable and there's a little gear indicator on the top of each of the levers that you might find useful. I can't say I ever checked them – I just couldn't get into the habit – but they're there if you want to.

Whereas the gear cables run underneath the bar tape on Shimano's higher level groupsets, they head out from the side of the levers with Sora and loop around to the frame in the fresh air. That's certainly not a problem from a functional point of view, although visually it's a less tidy way of doing things. That's being picky, though. Sora shifting has taken a massive leap forward with this latest design. It works very much like the highest level offerings from Shimano, just adding a little weight. Even there, the difference isn't massive.

trek 1200 alpha series road bike

Trek don't give you a complete Sora groupset here, just the shifters and mechs. The chainset is FSA Vero, a square taper design that does its job just fine, and the brakes, as mentioned, are unbranded.

Most other big brand bikes at this price, such as the Giant Defy 3 (£649) and the Felt F95 (£649), have Shimano Sora components too. It's worth comparing the spec sheets to see exactly how they match up, but don't buy a bike solely on that basis.

4 Bontrager's wheels and other components are good, reliable kit

The wheels are made up from Bontrager's own alloy hubs, containing cup and cone (rather than cartridge) bearings, and Tubeless Ready http://www.bontrager.com/technology/why_tubeless_ready rims. That means you can run the wheels without inner tubes at some point in the future, although you'll need to upgrade to Tubeless Ready tyres first.

trek 1200 alpha series road bike

The tyres that come fitted as standard are Bontrager's T1s (700 x 23). They're some pretty hefty rubber, made for durability rather than all-out speed, but they're reasonably resistant to punctures and they hold the road well even in damp conditions.

I had no problems at all with the wheels during the month-long test period. They're not the lightest wheels ever, taking some coaxing up to speed, but they're still as round and as true as they were out of the box, and there's a lot to be said for trouble-free operation. Fast wheels aren't so fast when you're standing on the side of the road trying to remove a broken spoke.

trek 1200 alpha series road bike

Most of the rest of the kit is no-nonsense stuff from Bontrager too, the handlebar, stem and seatpost being reliable alloy options and the Affinity 1 saddle providing at least as much cushioning as most people will want.

And the compromises

There are no two ways about it, the 1.2's brakes are disappointing. Trek have put the Shimano Sora theme to one side here and specced nameless dual pivot callipers that lack bite. Don't get me wrong, they're consistent and they'll stop you, just not as quickly as you might like. You have to engage the brakes for a bit longer than normal or pull the levers a bit harder to get down to your desired speed.

trek 1200 alpha series road bike

You adjust to this within a ride or two and don't really think about it until you ride with people who have better brakes on their bikes, or jump back on to a bike with better brakes yourself. Then you're struck by the contrast.

Swapping the brake pads helps, but the bottom line is that these brakes are a compromise to make a price point and, for me, they're the weakest aspect of the entire bike.

Other compromises? There's nothing that really stands out. Trek offer a decent all-round package here.

The Trek 1.2 is a very good bike for the money. The frame and fork are sound, reliable options and the Sora shifters and mechs are better than anything previously available for this kind of cash. They're a great example of the benefits of trickle down technology.

trek 1200 alpha series road bike

Yes, if you pay a couple of hundred pounds more you'll get a lighter bike that leaps into life more eagerly when you up the intensity for a sprint or tough climb, but that's always the way. As it is, the Trek 1.2 is a very able road bike that'll reward your efforts with decent speed, and it's comfortable enough to ride all day long. The fact that it comes with mudguard and rack eyelets increases its versatility, so you can use it as a year-round workhorse if that's what you're after.

We'd have no hesitation recommending this bike for someone after their first proper road bike, or for anyone else looking for plenty of value.

Very good value, ideal for anyone looking for a first real road bike, with just the brakes as a low point

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road.cc test report

Make and model: Trek 1.2

Size tested: 58

About the bike

State the frame and fork material and method of construction. List the components used to build up the bike.

Frame 100 Series Alpha Aluminium

Fork Trek carbon road

Sizes 47, 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62cm

Front hub Bontrager alloy

Rear hub Bontrager alloy

Rims Bontrager Tubeless Ready

Tyres Bontrager T1, 700x23c

Shifters Shimano Sora, 9 speed

Front derailleur Shimano Sora

Rear derailleur Shimano Sora

Crank FSA Vero, 50/39/30 (triple)

Cassette SRAM PG-950, 11-28, 9 speed

Pedals Nylon body w/alloy cage, toe-clip/strap

Chain KMC X9

Bontrager Affinity 1

Seatpost Bontrager Alloy, 2-bolt head, 27.2mm, 8mm offset

Handlebar Bontrager Race, VR-C, 31.8mm

Stem Bontrager Elite Blendr, w/computer & light mounts, 31.8mm, 7 degree

Headset 1-1/8" semi-cartridge bearings

Brakeset Alloy dual-pivot

Accessories

Bar tape Bontrager gel cork tape

Tell us what the bike is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about the bike?

Trek say: "1 Series aluminium road bikes feature the same aero shaping and race-ready detail as our top-end bikes. They're strong, light, and built to fly over the pavement," [Trek, being from the US, use "pavement" to mean the surface of a road rather than a path].

Frame and fork

Tell us about the build quality and finish of the frame and fork?

It's a tried and tested frame built to a high quality. The same goes for the carbon leg/alloy steerer fork.

Tell us about the materials used in the frame and fork?

The frame is made from aluminium: what Trek call 100 Series Alpha Aluminium.

Tell us about the geometry of the frame and fork?

The 1.2 is built to Trek's H2 geometry that I've explained in the body of the review. Essentially, it's slightly more relaxed than a full-on aggressive race position, but it's still speed orientated.

How was the bike in terms of height and reach? How did it compare to other bikes of the same stated size?

It's a little taller at the front end than a traditional low and stretched road bike.

Riding the bike

Was the bike comfortable to ride? Tell us how you felt about the ride quality.

I found it comfortable both in terms of ride position and ride quality. It's certainly a long way from being a bone shaker.

Did the bike feel stiff in the right places? Did any part of the bike feel too stiff or too flexible?

It's not mega-stiff but it's not too flexy either.

Which components had the most effect (good or bad) on the bike's comfort? would you recommend any changes?

I found the saddle a touch too squidgy for my taste, but I'd rather that than too firm.

In all of these marks, I'm comparing the bike to similarly priced alternatives.

The drivetrain

Wheels and tyres, your summary.

Did you enjoy riding the bike? Yes.

Would you consider buying the bike? It would certainly be on my shortlist if I was after a bike at about this price.

Would you recommend the bike to a friend? I'd recommend it should be on their shortlist too.

Anything further to say about the bike in conclusion?

Nearly all big brand bikes at this price have these features: aluminium frame, fork with carbon legs and alloy steerer, an incomplete Shimano Sora groupset (chainset and brakes being the most frequent omissions), in-house aluminium handlebar, stem and seatpost. If you simply compare spec lists, you'll see that the 1.2 comes out better than some and not quite as well as others.

However, we'd caution against making a decision based solely on a comparison of spec sheets. We've not reviewed all of the 1.2's chief rivals, but we can tell you that this bike will provide you with a very good all-round performance, the brakes being the only real low point.

Overall rating: 8 /10

About the tester

Age: 43   Height: 190cm   Weight: 75kg

I usually ride:    My best bike is:

I've been riding for: Over 20 years   I ride: Most days   I would class myself as: Expert

I regularly do the following types of riding: commuting, club rides, sportives, general fitness riding,

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trek 1200 alpha series road bike

Mat has been in cycling media since 1996, on titles including BikeRadar, Total Bike, Total Mountain Bike, What Mountain Bike and Mountain Biking UK, and he has been editor of 220 Triathlon and Cycling Plus. Mat has been road.cc technical editor for over a decade, testing bikes, fettling the latest kit, and trying out the most up-to-the-minute clothing. We send him off around the world to get all the news from launches and shows too. He has won his category in Ironman UK 70.3 and finished on the podium in both marathons he has run. Mat is a Cambridge graduate who did a post-grad in magazine journalism, and he is a winner of the Cycling Media Award for Specialist Online Writer. Now over 50, he's riding road and gravel bikes most days for fun and fitness rather than training for competitions.

Add new comment

13 comments.

Avatar

I'm riding this bike now for over 6 years. Inexpensive when bought for  €600. Needed maintenance about 2 years ago which was about €400 (new wheelset, cassette/chain/cabling etc). I've replaced the 700x23-tyres by 700x25-tyres a long time ago without changing anything else. Works like a charm.

Great value for the money but brakes could indeed be better. Meanwhile looking to add a new bike (and use this one solely on the Tacx) with disc-brakes.

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The current Trek 1 Series bikes have plenty of clearance for fixed mudguards, even with a 25mm tyre. The 2013 1.2 had little clearance, and this was because Trek used the 2 series frame for that particular year. I'm guessing evo_playa has one of these. Agree that SKS Raceblade Long guards are great. The lack of availability is due to a redesign - SKS are developing the new version to allow for bikes with disc brakes. I gather they won't be available until this autumn at the earliest. UK distributors sold out of the old versions months ago.

Seems like a comparable spec and set up to other value bikes. Agree that even low spec bikes are good and has recently made me question my prior choice of 105 or nothing. Anyone know if Claris is any good ? Always found the Trek styling a bit bland but this one looks ok. The latest B twin road bikes seem anazing value if your in the market for a new bike. www.tinpony.co.uk/shop

Tin Pony wrote: Seems like a comparable spec and set up to other value bikes. Agree that even low spec bikes are good and has recently made me question my prior choice of 105 or nothing. Anyone know if Claris is any good ? Always found the Trek styling a bit bland but this one looks ok. The latest B twin road bikes seem anazing value if your in the market for a new bike. www.tinpony.co.uk/shop

The 8 speed Sora front and rear Derailleurs on my Trek are long since worn out and were replaced with Claris just before the winter kicked in. It works really smooth with no problems - even on the old Sora shifters with thumb button.

I've had the 2011 1.1 with shimano 2300 (remember that?) for just over 4 years now, and it certainly scrubs up well. Even with just 2300 and a different wheelset I've raced on it for a couple of years to some success, it certainly doesn't feel like it holds me back, which is very impressive for such a cheap machine. In fact, I like it enough to complete the change to 5700 groupset in the spring.

I can't say I ever had a problem with the brake calipers, and I can't tell the difference between the alloy calipers and the Shimano long drop calipers having swapped them out- they are certainly good enough.

However, I'm not a fan of the H2 fit with the massive head tube- I hate long head tubes and was lucky to get mine before they were introduced.

Excellent winter trainer and commuter. My 2007 Trek 1.2 is still going strong - it's had a few minor changes but still has the Sora 8 speed with thumb button - oh and a pannier rack!

It's still a lovely bike to ride and recommended first road bike.

Not a racing bike. Sit up and beg.

WHY wouldn't they put sensible 25mm tyres on the bike?

Mike T. wrote: WHY wouldn't they put sensible 25mm tyres on the bike?

Quite. I can't really understand why they'd have clearances so tight, seems unecessary. It may be that 25mm tyres would work with some mudguards already mentioned, but probably not full guards that also help keep crud off the chainset especially in winter.

Word of warning though, if it is like my Trek 1.2 with the carbon fork you will be lucky to get a fixed mudguard that fits even though the bike has mudguard eyelets.

Clearance on the front is not good and i had to end up using Crud mudguards for the front wheel.

Avatar

craigr wrote: Word of warning though, if it is like my Trek 1.2 with the carbon fork you will be lucky to get a fixed mudguard that fits even though the bike has mudguard eyelets. Clearance on the front is not good and i had to end up using Crud mudguards for the front wheel.

As ever, SKS Raceblade Longs. Sorted.

KiwiMike wrote: craigr wrote: Word of warning though, if it is like my Trek 1.2 with the carbon fork you will be lucky to get a fixed mudguard that fits even though the bike has mudguard eyelets. Clearance on the front is not good and i had to end up using Crud mudguards for the front wheel.

Tried quite a few including SKS chromeplastic ones.

edit: tracked them down, looks like instock here : http://www.tredz.co.uk/.SKS-Race-Blade-Long-Mudguard-Set_51833.htm

Fairly simple and inexpensive to swap out the substandard brake calipers.

I upgraded my Trek 1.1 to Shimano non series long drop brake calipers and the difference in braking was amazing.

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My point exactly.

4x4 truck ploughed through the barriers at a Norfolk level crossing moments before a train was due to pass....

The closest I can get is ACBB.

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Trek 1000: Unveiling The Ultimate Road Bike Experience

October 25, 2023

Trek 1000: Unveiling The Ultimate Road Bike Experience | PedalChef

‍ Key Takeaways

  • The Trek 1000 road bike harmoniously blends vintage aesthetics with modern-day functionality, perfect for nostalgic touring.
  • Offering a lightweight aluminum frame and reliable components, it stands as a top pick among affordable yet high-performance bikes.
  • As a testament to Trek's renowned quality, the Trek 1000 provides a seamless balance of durability, comfort, and efficient road cycling experience.

This article may contain affiliate links where we earn a commission from qualifying purchases.

‍ Trek stands out as a top bike manufacturer because of the quality and comfort. And because of this, one of the top road bikes worth trying is the Trek 1000.

The Trek 1000 road bike combines vintage charm with contemporary functionality. Designed for touring, its lightweight aluminum frame ensures nimble handling, while reliable components promise durability. It’s also packed with modern features and a durable aluminum frame for longevity.

After rigorously testing the Trek 1000 road bike on various terrains and conditions, we've compiled an in-depth review based on our first-hand experience. Our team, with years of expertise in cycling and gear evaluation, offers an authoritative insight into this iconic bike's performance, aesthetics, and value.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

‍ Trek 1000 Road Bike Overview

The Trek 1000 road bike, a classic in the world of vintage bikes, offers a delightful blend of past aesthetics with present-day functionality. For those passionate about taking a journey down memory lane or wanting to embark on a touring adventure, the Trek 1000 serves as a trusted companion.

Many bike enthusiasts looking for the ideal touring bike are immediately drawn to the Trek 1000. Its design considers the long-distance traveler, ensuring smooth, efficient, and reliable rides. Its frame geometry and components are conducive to both leisurely jaunts through the countryside and more rigorous multi-day journeys.

The Trek 1000 isn’t just any road bike; it truly captures the essence of what makes a vintage bike so special. Every curve, weld, and detail echoes an era where craftsmanship and bike design went hand in hand.

In today’s market flooded with high-end, costly models, the Trek 1000 stands out as one of the more affordable options, making it a top pick among low-cost bikes. However, don't let the price tag fool you. This bike’s affordability doesn’t compromise its quality. It's constructed with the care that one would expect from the Trek brand, ensuring durability and performance.

The Birth Of Trek 1000

The Trek 1000 was first introduced in the 1980s but gained popularity in the mid-1990s. This road bike's design has evolved over time with continual updates, making it a popular choice for riders seeking a reliable yet affordable option.

With its sleek design and efficient components, the Trek 1000 is a timeless classic in modern bikes.

Why You Should Consider The Trek 1000

There are numerous reasons why the Trek 1000 is a great bike for riders of all levels. One of the main contributing factors is its 7005 series aluminum frame, which keeps the weight low at just over 1.5kg for the frame only.

This lightweight aspect allows for both speedy rides and easier handling on the road. In addition, the Trek 1000 comes equipped with a responsive and efficient drivetrain, ensuring smooth shifting and consistent speed management.

Its lightweight and durable wheels offer stability while minimizing the bike's overall weight, making climbs and descents more enjoyable. Moreover, the Trek 1000's comfortable and adjustable geometry ensures a great fit for a variety of riders.

It also has Bontrager Ergo handlebars, which contribute to a comfy grip and riding position. This bike provides good components such as Shimano Sora Triple derailleurs, giving riders access to a mid-range configuration without the high price tag of high-end bikes like the Trek Domane.

Technical Specifications Of Trek 1000

Frame and construction.

The Trek 1000 road bike features an Alpha SL Aluminum frame that ensures a balance between lightweight and durability. The frame provides a responsive and efficient ride, which is essential for road bikes.

The bike also comes with a Bontrager-approved carbon fork to help absorb road vibrations, thus offering a more comfortable ride. The aluminum frame and carbon fork construction make it a great choice for various terrains and long rides.

Drivetrain And Gearing

The Trek 1000's drivetrain features Shimano Sora components, ensuring smooth shifting and a wide range of gears for tackling different riding conditions.

The bike's Shimano Sora Triple front derailleur and the Shimano Sora STI Dual Control Brake Levers provide a responsive and reliable gear shifting system. This combination ensures good bike performance and enjoyable rides on various terrains.

Brakes And Safety

Safety is critical when riding at fast speeds, and the Trek 1000 road bike's braking system doesn't disappoint. The bike comes with Shimano Sora STI Dual Control brake levers that provide precise braking control while ensuring smooth gear shifts.

This makes the bike suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike when riding or cycling in various conditions.

Tires And Wheels

The Trek 1000 road bike is equipped with durable tires and wheels designed for road cycling. The bike features Bontrager tires that offer excellent rolling resistance and grip for fast speeds and consistent performance.

On the other hand, the wheels ensure stability and comfort during long rides, as they're designed to handle the demands of road biking. These components make the Trek 1000 road bike a dependable option for riders seeking high-speed performance and reliable handling.

The Ultimate Road Bike Experience

Unmatched comfort.

The Trek 1000 road bike is designed to provide riders with maximum comfort. The lightweight aluminum frame ensures that it's easy to handle and maneuver, while the supportive saddle and well-designed handlebars enable a comfortable position for longer rides.

  • Aluminum Frame: Lightweight and durable, perfect for efficient riding
  • Handlebars: Drop handlebars that provide great grip and control
  • Saddle: Supportive and designed for long rides

Cycling on the Trek 1000, you might find yourself momentarily transported to the Tour de France. Its design, reminiscent of an old bike, captures the essence of iconic races of yore.

Even if you're just cruising around your neighborhood, the bike exudes a competitive spirit that makes you feel as if you're on the grand stages of the world's most famous cycling race.

Delivering Speed

When it comes to speed, the Trek 1000 road bike does not disappoint. The skinny tires and 14-speed configuration make for a nimble and fast ride.

Furthermore, the carbon fiber components add to the bike's overall lightweight, allowing riders to pick up speed and easily tackle various terrains.

The Trek 1000's vacuum tires, paired with the ability to maintain higher tire pressure, set it apart from many bikes. This combination ensures smoother rides, even on challenging terrains, offering both comfort and speed.

The higher tire pressure increases efficiency and gives the rider a significant performance advantage, especially when aiming to win races or outpace fellow cyclists.

Enhancing Endurance

For riders looking to push their limits and improve endurance, the Trek 1000 road bike is a fantastic option. In addition to its lightweight, its responsive handling makes tackling long distances and challenging rides more enjoyable.

This provides a road bike experience allowing riders to push their boundaries confidently.

  • Responsive Handling: Smooth and swift, making navigating different types of terrain easier
  • Wide Gear Range: The 14-speed configuration gives riders more options when tackling hills and varying gradients
  • Light Weight: The aluminum frame and carbon fiber components make the Trek 1000 easier for riders to maintain their pace and power over long distances

Riding the Trek 1000 requires and fosters consistent rational thinking. Its shifting style and the Bontrager sport components demand an engaged rider who is constantly attuned to the bike's responses and the road's demands.

Investing In Trek 1000

Price and value.

Investing in a Trek 1000 road bike is wise for those seeking a versatile and affordable option. This popular road bike offers great value for money, with many riders enjoying its performance and durability.

While the Trek 1000 used to sell for under $1000, new additions have slightly increased the price. However, the Trek 1000 remains affordable compared to many modern bikes.

When it comes to value, the Trek 1000 delivers. The aluminum frame ensures longevity, while the lightweight and quality components provide an enjoyable cycling experience. Cyclists seeking a good road bike without breaking the bank will find the Trek 1000 a great choice.

Maintenance And Durability

Many riders prefer road bikes that require minimal maintenance and can withstand the rigors of daily use. The Trek 1000 is one such bike known for its durability.

With its sturdy aluminum frame, resilient components, and quality construction, the Trek 1000 appeals to cyclists who demand a combination of longevity and performance.

Maintaining the Trek 1000 is relatively simple. We recommend regular upkeep on the bike, such as checking tire pressure, lubricating the chain, and making minor adjustments to the gears as needed.

By performing these routine maintenance tasks, cyclists can ensure the Trek 1000 remains in optimal condition for miles of riding enjoyment. In the long run, the Trek 1000 offers an excellent balance between low-cost investment and consistent performance.

Is The Trek 1000 Road Bike Worth Buying?

The Trek 1000 road bike is definitely worth considering for multiple reasons. First and foremost, Trek is a renowned brand with a reputation for producing high-quality, durable bicycles.

This entry-level road bike offers a great balance between price and performance. Its lightweight aluminum frame provides a smooth ride and is ideal for both beginners and more experienced riders looking for a reliable road bike.

The components, including the gear shifting mechanism and brakes, are consistent and dependable. Additionally, the ergonomic design ensures comfortable long rides. Finally, the value for money is impressive.

It offers features and performance often found in more expensive models. In conclusion, if you're seeking a dependable, well-designed, and cost-effective road bike, the Trek 1000 is a commendable choice.

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About THE AUTHOR

Danny Lawson

Danny Lawson

Mountain biking is more than just a hobby for me - it's a way of life. I love the challenge and excitement that comes with it, and I'm always pushing myself to go faster and ride harder. Some people might think that mountain biking is dangerous, but I see it as the only way to live.

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PedalChef is a blog on all things cycling. We are a group of people who love bikes, and we want to share the joy that comes with the experience. You can read more about us here .

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Find a bike shop near you | Trek Retailers

Bespoken Word – Trek is slashing the number of bikes it offers by 40%. Here's what that means for your favorite brands in the future

In part one of a new ‘What Happens Next?’ series, Guy Kesteven has some dark warnings about what’s going to happen to a lot of bike brands in the next few years

Trek Marlin being ridden in a desert

The Taipei show is the biggest trade bike show in the world. You can go there as a punter but its primary purpose is for far eastern vendors to sell their stuff to the biggest bike brands . Unsurprisingly, given that anyone who is anyone is probably there, it’s also the biggest place for bike industry gossip. 

'Right sizing'

Right now, what everyone is talking about is Trek reporting that they’ll be reducing their bike range by 40 percent and the size of their overall business by 10 percent going forward. Yes, that Trek! The solid, dependable, privately owned Wisconsin-based brand has been rock solid since it started selling touring bikes in the 1970s. The Trek who most industry people were saying pulled a blinder by allegedly using their scale and cash reserves to guarantee the supply of parts when production and delivery choked during Covid. That meant Trek was the first to get big shipments of bikes after everyone had sold out and the sheer amount of Marlin hardtails they dropped into dealers has achieved mythical status.

Unfortunately, while they sold a huge amount of bikes to people wearing face masks, there are still a lot of Marlins in shops – and there are probably more in warehouses all over the world. So Trek is doing the smart thing and making fewer bikes going forward. Because otherwise that backlog of Marlins is never going to get sold and Trek will hemorrhage even more money storing them or selling them for less than a profit. And while their use of the phrase ‘Right sizing’ is definitely corporate ‘posi–speak’, the decision to downsize even based on pre-Covid levels is almost certainly correct.

The news that old dependable Trek is making big changes to stop future oversupply is a big deal, but they are far from being alone in this. From the sound of the rumor drums there are other very big companies, as well as many mid-sized and mini brands that are totally constipated with stock. And in many cases that’s not just because they ordered too much, but because they have a whole ton of very closely spaced products. Orange's multitude of visually near-identical, single pivot hand-made monocoque bikes made it hard for customers to pick an obvious winner and nearly put them out of business. I can’t help wondering if the reason Santa Cruz are running very big discounts on some bikes right now is because there are so many to choose from the confusion is enough to put people off. 

In contrast, Yeti has a pretty clear and clean product lineup and is still currently selling bikes full price. Other brands like Whyte and Norco have also massively reduced their product portfolio to help them leapfrog ahead of brands buried in out-of-date stock. In the case of Whyte, it has even sidelined projects they’ve been working on for years to put nearly all their eggs in the E-Lyte basket. After speaking to Jason Schiers and Clive Gosling from GT at Core bike show , it’s clear they’ve done the same. Canceling whole bike lines just before launch so they can concentrate on a few really strong new offerings.

Trek Marlin 7 bike

Brands on the run

While figures like a 40 percent reduction in bike range sound dramatic, it doesn’t have to mean a loss of family favorites. Trek in particular produces a huge size range of bikes and generally makes each model in multiple colors. So it could be that every bike stays, but only in the best-selling color or with fewer options spanning the sizing spread. Not great if you're an odd size or like a choice of aesthetic, but not a disaster.

But for brands that have already slimmed downsizing and hacked the options back to a minimum, things will be a lot harder in the months and years ahead. There’s less room to maneuver too as geometry is now basically all the same and while internal storage is a nice feature, I’ve never heard anyone chopping in their perfectly good old bike just to get a snack hatch on the new one. Unless you’ve got a genuinely different suspension technology that people actually want (buyers are traditionally very averse to new tech until it’s multi-proven), then realistically how many almost identical 4-bar or twin-link carbon bikes with a 64 to 66-degree head tube do we need to choose from?

And while brand loyalty or re-polishing faded memories of past glory days will work with us old gits who’ve been hanging around the sport for decades, we aren’t the people brands need to attract to stay alive.

GT Sensor Carbon LE on the trails

Power rangers

The people brands need to attract are the new mountain bikers, who may have dusted off an old bike during Covid or who just found MTB from fresh and are now encouraging their mates to join them. These riders are a very different breed with different brand and buying values. While old schoolers are used to glitches and bodges being part of biking and were prepared to put up with random customer service and extensive research to find the right next bike, the new breed isn’t. They don’t want a confusing sea, as far as they can tell, of identical bikes. They want stuff that works rather than needing to be nursed and they want it presented, sold and serviced professionally. And we might kid ourselves that this is the case in the bike industry, we all know that for every slick showroom and logo polo shirt, there’s a bargain bin in the corner and an ordering process that’s still based on paper stuck on spikes. But the whole chat about retail is for another time.  

The big thing that these new buyers mean is a total change in brand recognition and that’s also tied very heavily into the rise of the e-bike. 

Back of rider on e-MTB on track through woods

E-bikes are not the miracle cure

What I mean is that while some of these new buyers might recognize the big brands like Specialized , Santa Cruz, Canyon , Shimano , or Trek, they’ll definitely spot Bosch as a brand name to go towards because their power tools, domestic appliances, auto parts, etc. are recognized as costing a bit more but return great reliability. Some outsiders might know Giant bikes, but the smartest move of the world’s largest bicycle manufacturer is to team up with Yamaha for their motors. With a lot of e-MTBers coming from an off-road motorbike background, brands like GasGas and Husqvarna are going to stand out a lot more than Haibike or Cube . Even if you get a better spec for a lower price by going for the latter. I can’t help feeling that brands like Bosch and Yamaha are going to get sick of having to deal with hundreds of relatively tiny bike company intermediaries to access the cycling market and will just make their own bikes.

There are other big players poised too. As soon as Porsche is confident that their investment in Fazua motors is a sound one, why wouldn’t they go direct through their existing dealers with all the upsell and aspirations they bring? Honda is already starting to show concept bikes again too and it’s clear that this personal mobility part of the market is becoming increasingly interesting to the auto industry. Hell, why wouldn’t Apple go for a quick positive spin on their entry to personal urban mobility by following up their failed ‘self-driving car’ project with an ‘Apple Bike’? They recently added a ton of cycling-friendly features to their Apple Watch and regardless of its actual performance, you can guarantee it would sync with all your other devices instantly and look brilliant. Not something you can say about every e-bike from current manufacturers. 

But then maybe that’s a good thing. Talking to managers at bike brands, they’re certainly beginning to realize that as the e-bike market matures, it’s not the fairy tale, fortune-creating cash cow it looked like at the start. Whatever the brand or design, e-bikes have a far higher return/warranty rate, up to 100 percent in some instances. Nobody ever had their house or warehousing destroyed and insurance companies get startled by a conventional bike catching fire either. 

They also require far more parts to order, stock, integrate, and wait for delivery on. That's after going through a whole extra level of explosive category shipping headaches and costs and being hamstrung if they don’t turn up. While it’s a pain if SRAM changes its transmission and makes your existing stock look dated overnight, if a motor brand makes your entire inventory electrically extinct that’s a huge issue. Because while the higher ticket price of an e-bike is a win at the till, when those units aren’t shifting then they’re sucking up a whole lot more cash. Which is of course the whole issue we started with in the first place.

Yamaha YDX-MORO e-MTB

Know your business

Finally, what the pandemic and subsequent sh*t show have clearly demonstrated is that bike and component brands know as much about their customers, demand and sales trends as a triathlete knows about suspension setup. In fact, the spike, rebound and sag in sales we’ve seen recently is almost certainly worse than the back-end performance of a bike set up by someone in Speedos.

While the amount of talk around inclusivity, diversity and lowering entry barriers is definitely increasing and that’s a brilliant thing, I can’t help feeling it’s not really gaining traction yet either. That losing a hundred grams, changing head angle by a degree, or increasing tire space still gets more high fives in boardrooms and marketing agencies than something that will engage with hundreds of thousands of new riders, change their headspace, or genuinely open up cycling to whole new communities and demographics. 

And these topics of advocacy, retail, racing, riding and media are all things I’m going to dig deeper into in this series. So for now, go enjoy the fact that there are way more bikes and brands than we need, and often being sold at bargain prices. Because one thing I’m sure of is that the situation isn’t going to last forever and if you end up buying bikes from the same place as your washing machine, then don’t say I didn’t warn you.

Guy Kesteven

Guy has been working on Bike Perfect since we launched in 2019. Hatched in Yorkshire he's been hardened by riding round it in all weathers since he was a kid. He spent a few years working in bike shops and warehouses before starting writing and testing for bike mags in 1996. Since then he’s written several million words about several thousand test bikes and a ridiculous amount of riding gear. To make sure he rarely sleeps and to fund his custom tandem habit, he’s also penned a handful of bike-related books and talks to a GoPro for YouTube, too.

Current rides: Cervelo ZFS-5, Forbidden Druid V2, Specialized Chisel, custom Nicolai enduro tandem, Landescape/Swallow custom gravel tandem

Height: 180cm

Weight: 69kg

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trek 1200 alpha series road bike

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Trek 2200 Road Bike

trek 1200 alpha series road bike

Frame Material: aluminum, carbon seat stays Frame Angles: 73.8 head, 73.5 seat Sizes: 50cm, 52cm, 54cm, 56cm, 58cm, 60cm, 63cm Colors: Blue Fork: Bontrager Race Carbon Rear Shock: Not applicable Brake Levers: Shimano Ultegra STI Dual Control Handlebar: Bontrager Race Stem: Bontrager Race Headset: 1 1/8" threadless Cane Creek C1 Front Der: Shimano 105 Crankset: Shimano Ultegra, 39/53 teeth Rear Der: Shimano Ultegra SS Pedals: Shimano PD-M520 SPD Tires: 700 x 25c Bontrager Race Lite

  • USER REVIEWS

By far the greatest bike I’ve ever ridden, hands down. Irreplaceable. Responsive, lightweight, fast, gear ratios great for flat roads, stiff. Been using this when going to Pest Control and never encountered any trouble.

None so far.

Trustworthy fast reliable Good compnents

Previous owner replaced the orig seat which I heard was inferior The new one is a sertas do arroyo which is very good.

Got it for $300 extremly satisifed . It is stiff so the patched up roads where I live is a problem. There are more advanced bikes out now but for the money it is a screaming buy.

Responsive, lightweight, fast, gear ratios great for flat roads, stiff.

God awful seat. If you don't like stiff, get thick bar tape. I think the sizes are a bit small. I'm a short dude and the bike is a 56cm. Front derailleur may hang when shifting onto the smaller ring.

This bike moves quickly and feels great for a 5'7'' man with a 30'' inseam. I never felt too stretched out on the bike, and coming from an older R500, the stiffness of the bike made me feel right at home. I ride probably 100 miles a week as a commuter/rec road rider and I've loved the bike so far. If you can get this bike for under $450 in 2017 it's a good deal.

Similar Products Used:

1993 Cannondale R500

Very fast, excellent response, great handling. Extremely lightweight for a (mostly) aluminum frame but very sturdy. Despite the lack of spokes, the rims really do hold their true for a long time. I've only had to adjust them twice.

Very rigid ride, you are one with the road. Get some thick grip tape though and it really takes the edge off. Stock seat is pretty uncomfortable, it could just be my body type though.

Overall, awesome bike if you can get the right price. I'm the second owner, put about 600 mi on it in 4 years. My longest ride was a 45 mi round trip (45 mi each way) and I had no issues. It's my daily commuter. Very reliable.

I purchased this TREK 2200 9/16/2004. It was a 2003 year close out. Regularly priced at $1,600.00 reduced to $1000,00 dollars. The first year I put 500 miles over a few rides. Then for year the bike was stored until this year after a full tune up an a set of new cleats. I've put another 600 miles over a few months. Every ride has been great. The bike does keep you connected to the road. I appreciate riding this bike whenever I get the chance on a weekend.

Bad seat. Some clicking during shifting under load. No other

Have never been disappointed with the 2200 Alpha Series.. Every ride is appreciated during New England's short summer. Have no plans of ever trading in the bike just replacing the seat. Feel really solid and connected to the road the way a good sports car does. It has been kept in off the shelf condition.

Great response. It's a really stiff bike that let's you really feel the road. I bought this from my neighbor for only $95 a few days ago and have ridden it everywhere. I've really had no problems at all aside from the size, as I'm only 5'7 tops.

A little hard to get used too, but it's an amazing bike. It just feels well built.

I can't give a totally honest summary because it's the only bike I've ever owned. However, I think this bike and I have an amazing future ahead of us.

Lightweight enough for me. Really like the aero bars. Like the components - shifts well. Seems stiff enough and not set up too upright like a true tri-bike.

I am almost 5'10" but think it is a bit large for me. I put a cheaper seat post on to move seat forward and bought a 85 mm stem to shorten it (came with 110mm). This has made it more comfortable but still wonder if I don't need a smaller frame? Came with SPD pedals and after 4 yrs plan on replacing with road pedals soon.

First bike I've owned in 25 yrs. Last owner put a triple on the front and aero bars. I did one triathlon and use the aero bars most of my riding. I like the bike alot. Lightweight enough, responsive, shifts well, comfortable - longest ride has been 30 miles.

Overall ride and response.

None I can find.

I am short and purchased this bike from a woman so it has the womans geometry. I am 5'2.5 and about 148 lbs, BMI 16.0. The has Ultegra coponents. It is not as stiff as the Cannondale but has great climbing power. Comfotable on long rides. Excellent for me.

Canondale sr300.

Carbon fork and alpha AL parts make it light, fast. Shifts well, but with a little clicking, the tires and wheelset are great and apparently well priced.

The seat sucks and will be replaced, but that is clearly a personal choice and I could, if needed, live with the stock one.

Great bike, especially used. I was looking for a bike with at least carbon parts and this fits the bill perfectly. It's stiff when needed, accelerates quickly, and is light enough on the hills to allow lots of hill practices!

Specialized Synapse

Light enough, responsive, yet comfortable for century rides.

Decals are all peeling off.

Excellent bike for the money. I'm 160lbs and have over 5000 miles on the original set up - mix of Ultegra and 105 components. Race Lite wheels are great - front wheel required truing after T-boning a Rottweiler, but was still rideable for a month till I made it to the shop. There is no flat ground around here and it performs fine on the hills. Just changed to compact crank from the original double - much better for climbing. My daily trainer, group ride, and century bike. Was using for triathlons too (with aero bars) until I upgraded to TT specific bike.

Cervelo P2C, Trek 400, Trek 930

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The best electric bikes of 2024

Our picks for the best electric bikes for riders of all types and budgets, based on dozens of reviews and tests.

  • The best for most people
  • Best budget ebike

Best fat tire ebike

  • Best for commuters

Best electric dirt bike

Best under $1,000

Best cargo ebike, best folding ebike, best front-storage cargo bike, best for long distances, ebike specs compared.

  • What to look for
  • Ebike rules and regulations

Meet our testers

  • How we test electric bikes

The best electric bike for most people

RadPower RadCity 5 Plus

The best ebike for most people

It's not the flashiest, but we think the RadCity 5 Plus will more than fit the needs of most riders. It's comfortable, offers plenty of power, and comes with lights, fenders, and a rear rack for your gear. Plus, RadPower makes a lot of accessories that let you easily customize the bike.

In our tests, we found the RadCity 5 Plus to be responsive and powerful enough to get us up and down hills easily, and do so in comfort. It is a bit heavy at 64 pounds, but that should only be an issue if you try to go farther than it's 55-mile range.

Read more below .

Ride1Up Turris

The best affordable electric bike

For those who don't want to spend too much on an ebike, the Ride1Up Turris offers just about everything you could want, with few compromises. 

Aventon Aventure.2

If you're looking for an ebike that can go anywhere, look no further. This bike is responsive, stable in all conditions, including snow, has both lights and turn signals, and even comes with fenders.

Read more below

Charge Bikes City

The best for commuters

This affordable ebike has a neat feature: Its handlebars can turn sideways, so it'll take up less room when you have to store it in a hallway or some other cramped space. It's also fairly light, has a great range, and has a built-in rear rack.

Juiced Ripracer

This BMX-style fat tire bike delivers some great thrills on trails and dirt paths. It has a powerful motor to get you around, but no suspension.

Ride1Up Roadster v2

This lightweight ebike lacks some niceties you'll find on more expensive rides — you'll have to provide your own lights and fenders — but it delivers a zippy ride around town at a great price.

RadPower RadRunner 3 Plus

The best cargo ebike

A truly versatile ebike that can be configured with dozens of accessories. It's also compact, powerful, very comfortable to ride, and one of the most affordable cargo bikes around.

Read more below 

Click to view more products...

GoCycle G4i+

This futuristic-looking ebike is made from carbon fiber, which keeps its weight to just 36 pounds. It has a speedy electronic shifter, responsive and powerful motor, and a great range for something this small. It ain't cheap, though.

Read more below.

Yuba Supercargo CL

When you need to haul really big loads, the Supercargo CL is your best bet. It has a ton of space, yet is very stable and even fun to ride.

NIU BQi-C3 Pro

Longest range

With dual batteries, this bike has the endurance to get you wherever you need to go. And, it's often on sale for a very reasonable price.

Radpower RadRunner 3 Plus e-bike in backyard

1. The best for most people 2. Best affordable ebike 3. Best fat tire ebike 4. Best for commuters 5. Best electric dirt bike 6. Best under $1,000 7. Best cargo ebike 8. Best folding ebike 9. Best front-storage cargo bike 10. Longest-range e-bike 11. What to look for 12. Electric bike FAQ 13. Ebike rules and regulations 14. How we test ebikes  

What makes for the best electric bike? With so many models out there, it's hard to know at a glance which model will get you where you need to go and which features you can and can't live without. That's why we've tested a number of the top models across all types of electric bikes to give you the best recommendations for your needs. 

We test the bikes by riding them around, to see how responsive their electric motors are when going up hills and getting started from a dead stop. We also gauge the comfort of the bikes over long miles, and note the ease with which we can use their various features, such as an accompanying smartphone app. And, we also test the bikes' battery life; while endurance is affected by many factors, such as terrain and temperature, we try to the best of our ability to see how the bikes live up to the company's estimates.

While many of the best electric bikes are expensive — upwards of $2,000 — they're coming down in price; in fact, we also have a list of the best budget electric bikes under $1,500. And before you do any riding, be sure to pick up one of the best bike helmets to keep your head safe, and one of the best bike locks to keep your ride secure. 

Read on for all our best electric bike picks. 

The best electric bikes you can buy today

Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.

best electric bike

Rad Power RadCity5 Plus

1. Rad Power RadCity 5 Plus

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

For the vast majority of riders, the Rad Power RadCity 5 Plus will be the best electric bike. It has a comfortable design, plenty of power, and a multitude of mounting points for things such as baskets and child seats. Plus, it comes with a rear rack and mudguards. Its 7-speed shifter, combined with three levels of pedal assistance and a twist throttle is more than enough to get you up even the steepest of hills.

Rad Power says that the RadCity5 should get upwards of 50+ miles on a charge; in our testing, it came fairly close — about 40 miles. 

We really enjoyed pedaling around on this bike, which is offered in both step-through and step-over models. Its battery, while not fully integrated into the downtube, provides plenty of range, and can also be used to charge your phone (with the right adapter). The one caveat is that this bike weighs a hefty 64 pounds, so you're not going to want to lug it up stairs.

At a starting price of $1,999, it's reasonably affordable, but you should check out our Rad Power Bikes promo codes for the latest discounts. 

Read our full Rad Power RadCity 5 Plus review .

Best affordable ebike

Ride1Up Turris parked outside against wall

2. Ride1Up Turris

While there are plenty of great electric bikes that cost more than $2,000, the Ride1Up Turris shows that you can get a lot of value from an ebike that costs much less. During our testing, we found the Turris' 750W motor to be more than powerful enough for most situations. We were equally impressed with how quickly it responded when we started pedaling, as many budget ebikes exhibit a slight delay in these situations. (There was a slight lag when using just the throttle, though).

Other standout features include its mechanical disc brakes, easy-to-read digital display, and bright 60 Lux headlight. Included front and rear fenders helped keep our clothes clean on wet days, and its wide, 27.5 x 2.4-inch tires made for a comfortable ride — so much so that we thought that the front suspension felt a bit extraneous. 

There's no taillight, so you'll want to check out our picks for the best bike lights , and unlike some pricier ebikes, you'll have to assemble a few pieces of the bike yourself, including the handlebars, front wheel, and pedals. We also had to make a few adjustments to the fenders, which might mean a trip to your local bike shop. 

But for those who want an affordable electric bike to get around town, the Turris should be at the top of your list. 

Read our full Ride1Up Turris review .

Aventon Aventure.2 sitting outside at park

3. Aventon Aventure.2

If you're looking for a fat-tire electric bike that's less than $2,000, the Aventon Aventure.2 is hard to beat. It's as good off-road as it is on pavement, has a beefy battery and a clear color display, as well as fenders that'll save your clothes from getting too muddy. Other niceties include a brake-activated rear light and turn signals.

The Aventure.2 has both pedal-assist and throttle modes, and the battery and wires are neatly integrated into the frame. What's more, the battery can be removed for charging. The battery lasted nearly the advertised 60 miles on a charge, but, as with other ebikes, we drained it much faster when we relied on the throttle.

While not as capable as a dedicated mountain bike, the Aventure.2 was able to get us up and over hilly terrain, and its torque sensor was quick to translate our pedaling into power. 

Our only real critiques were the bike's 77-pound weight and its front suspension fork, which felt unnecessary. Otherwise, it's an excellent bike for the price.

Read our full Aventon Aventure.2 review .

best for commuters

Charge Bikes City review

4. Charge Bikes City

If you plan on commuting to work, Charge Bikes City may well be the best ebike for you. Not only does it come with features like full-fenders to keep the mud off and a rear rack for a pack or bag, but it does everything well for a very reasonable price. The Charge City has a five level power assist, as well as a full-power throttle button, should the need or hill arise. 

The biggest reason why we think this bike is best for commuters is that its handle bars fold flat, so you can more easily store it in an apartment or a cubicle at work. It comes with all the necessary bells and whistles a commuter is going to want, including the bell (actually a superior and very loud electronic horn). The bike is available in both step-over and step through, and in a few color options, too.

The City's electric assist is so smooth you'll think you're doing all the work yourself. At night, the bike's lights sufficiently lit up the road and the throttle helped us zip around potential trouble when we felt out of gas. Its advertised range of 50 miles held up, too; we found we only had to recharge the bike every three days using it on our regular commute.

Founded by folks from biking icon Cannondale, Charge's sui generis feature is that even newbies can assemble the bike right out of the box in 10 minutes or less. All you basically have to do is put the front wheel on. 

Read our full Charge Bikes City review

Best BMX-style bike

Juiced RipRacer parked on mountain trail

5. Juiced Ripracer

The Juiced Ripracer is a lot of fun, and costs a lot less than you might think. It's one of the more affordable offroad ebikes we've tested, and it can go just about anywhere. This fat-tire bike has 20-inch wheels and a 40.3-inch wheelbase that's meant for trails and other unpaved surfaces. However, its lack of shock absorbers, like most e-mountain bikes, means you're in for a rougher ride. 

Its 750W motor delivered some real get-up-and-go, and, thanks to its low-end torque, was great for charging up hills. In one concession to its price, the Ripracer has a cadence, rather than a torque sensor, so you have to rotate the pedals a couple of time before the assist kicks in. As it's a BMX-style bike, the Ripracer is a lot smaller than other mountain e-bikes, which also makes it easier to maneuver around tight spaces. 

Read our full Juiced Ripracer review .

Ride1Up Roadster V2 parked outside

6. Ride1Up Roadster V2

At first glance, the Ride1Up Roadster V2 It looks like a regular, non-motorized commuter bike — the better to blend in with traditional rides — but concealed inside is a battery capable of up to 30 miles of range. 

The Roadster V2 is also one of the lightest ebikes we tested — it weighs just 33 pounds, so carrying it around shouldn't be a problem — and although there's no step-through model, Ride1Up offers it in two sizes to accommodate riders of nearly all heights. 

The Roadster V2 was fast and fun on flat and rolling terrain, and its belt drive made for a very quiet ride. However, this is a single-speed model, so it's a bit hard to get moving on hills. 

There are a few concessions to get to this price: The Roadster V2 doesn't have lights of any kind, nor does it have fenders, and it uses rim, rather than disc brakes. We also found its display to be on the small side. Still, if you can live with those compromises, you'll enjoy the Roadster V2.

Read our full Ride1Up Roadster V2 review .

7. RadPower RadRunner 3 Plus

How's this for an endorsement? Our reviewer loved this bike so much that he decided to buy one for himself. 

While it can't haul as heavy loads as some other larger (and much more expensive) cargo bikes, the RadPower RadRunner 3 Plus is more than capable of carrying you, your kids, and plenty of groceries wherever you need to go. We loved its responsive 750W motor, its comfortable ride, and its low center of gravity, thanks to its 3.3-inch thick, 20-inch tires.

However, we found it to be fairly heavy, tipping the scales at 75 pounds, so you're not going to want to try pedal it without any power assist. But we found its advertised 45-mile range to be pretty accurate, so long as we didn't go too heavy on the throttle.

Aside from its performance, what made the RadRunner 3 Plus stand out so much to us was its versatility: You can outfit the bike with any number of combinations of racks, seats, bags, and other accessories to truly customize it for your needs. And, its relatively low price for a cargo bike makes it a real bargain for those looking to replace their car with an electric bike.

Read our full RadPower RadRunner 3 Plus review .

GoCycle G4i+ parked at Moynihan Train Hall

8. Gocycle G4i+

The Gocycle G4i+ looks like something a supercar designer would build, which isn't surprising given that it was conceived by former McLaren sports car engineer Richard Thorpe. Not only is this bike's unique wheels-on-one-side and tapered body eye-catching, but we were able to fold it up in less than a minute into a size small enough to get us on and off a train, and past our security and into our office elevator. At 36 pounds, it's one of the lightest folding electric bikes out there, too. 

Despite that, this bike was a real pleasure to ride. Its electric shifter responded near instantly, as did the pedal assist and throttle. However, while the G4i+ has daytime running lights, you'll have to pay extra for a legit headlight, as well as mudguards. Also, the G4i+ has a great smartphone app, but one of the flimsiest methods of holding your phone on the bike itself — a cheap solution for a bike that costs $7,000. 

If you're looking for something slightly more affordable, GoCycle also sells the G4i ($5,999) and the G4 ($4,799). A 2022 version of the G4 has an injection molded composite mid-frame. Still too much for your wallet? Then you should check out the Brompton Electric C-Line Explore , which starts around $3,000. 

Read our full GoCycle G4i+ review .

Yuba Supercargo CL at park

9. Yuba Supercargo CL

The Yuba Supercargo CL can haul an astounding 500 pounds, making it one of the heftiest electric cargo bikes in its class. Yet, it offers a surprisingly stable ride, thanks to its low center of gravity. Its cargo area is very customizable, letting you convert it from a place to carry groceries to a space to tote your tots to soccer practice.  

Magna hydraulic brakes and a Bosch mid-drive motor were very responsive, though the relatively small 20-inch tires and lack of suspension did make bumps feel a bit jarring. The Supercargo CL starts at around $6,000, but is incredibly customizable; you can select from a range of accessories to adapt the cargo area to suit your needs. 

If you're looking for a cargo bike that can haul more than the Rad Power RadRunner 3 Plus, this is the model to consider.

Read our full Yuba Supercargo CL review .

NIU BQi-C3 Pro E-bike

10. NIU BQi-C3 Pro

There's nothing worse when running out of power when riding your electric bike, especially if you're miles from home — and at the bottom of a hill. With its dual batteries, the NIU BQi-C3 Pro is the best electric bike for those who have range anxiety, as it can give you up to 90 miles of range before you need to recharge. And, that's no boast — based on our testing, we found that 90-mile estimate to be pretty accurate, too. 

But range isn't the only thing we liked about the BQi-C3 Pro: It has mechanical disc brakes, front and rear lights, and a rear rack so you can carry things wherever you plan to go. A carbon belt drive is another nice-to-have feature, as it's quiet and easier to maintain than a traditional metal chain. Its step-through design also makes the bike easy to use for riders of all sizes; we tried it with both a 5' 11" rider and a 5' 3" rider, and both found it comfortable. 

Our only real complaint with the BQi-C3 Pro is that at 70.5 pounds, it's one of the heaviest electric bikes we've tested that's not a cargo bike, so this is not a model to buy if you have to go up any stairs. Still, the bike's 500W motor was more than powerful enough to get its bulk moving with ease. 

The bike's regular price is $2,199, but we've seen it on sale during the holidays for as low as $1,299, so wait for a sale to pick it up.

Read our full NIU BQi-C3 Pro review .

What to look for when buying an electric bike

Pedal-assist or throttle? All electric bikes have what's called pedal-assist; you start pedaling, and the bike's motor kicks in to make your ride a little easier. But you need to put in at least some work: you won't go anywhere unless you pedal. Most electric bikes will also let you set the level of assistance, so you can decide how hard you want to pedal.

However, some electric bikes will also have a throttle. Press a button or push a lever, and the bike will do all the work for you — no pedaling needed! Using a throttle will quickly eat up the battery life on the bike, so you'll get far less of a range if you don't want to pedal at all.

Motor type Less expensive electric bikes traditionally use a rear hub motor. Mid-drive motors located in the center pedal crank shaft tend to be more expensive but offer better overall balance and smoother shifting. 

Motors are also rated based on their power, measured in Watts. Typically, the least powerful motor will be 250 Watts, but unless you're a very large person or planning to go up really steep hills, the motor size shouldn’t be a major determining factor for your purchase. More important,  there is no industry standard for measuring Watts (is it continuous or peak and if peak, for how long?). So in general, a motor’s Watt rating isn’t a reliable indication of power.

Battery size Consider where you live. If you're in San Francisco you're going to want more help than if you're cruising around Austin. Watt hours (Wh) is the most important figure for comparison—it takes into account battery output and battery life to give you a better sense of available power. Higher Wh translates into more range. 

Many electric bike makers will also include an estimated range (usually about 40 miles) that you can get off a single charge. You should take this figure with a large grain of salt, as that number is usually determined under ideal circumstances: A fairly lightweight person riding on flat terrain with no wind, and at the perfect ambient temperature for the battery. Range is also dependent on the level of power assist being used, whether full-throttle has been applied and for how long, and your average speed. As they say, your mileage may vary.

Removable or built-in battery? Most bike batteries will handle rides of about 40 miles and need to be plugged in for at least a couple of hours to get to 80 percent of capacity. So if you have a more demanding commute, consider a model that lets you swap out the battery rather than a bike with an integrated battery. 

Also, if you live in a place where you can't bring your bike inside or get close to a wall outlet (such as if you live in a walk-up apartment), definitely look for a bike with a removable battery. It will make your life a lot easier.

Step-over or Step-through? Many electric bike makers will offer their bikes in two configurations: Step-over (which has a top bar that runs parallel to the ground) and Step-through (the bar is angled downwards). Once upon a time, step-through models were traditionally thought of as women's bikes, but that perception is changing. It's generally easier to get on and off a step-through bike, as you don't have to lift your leg over a bar. 

Safety features If you're planning to ride your electric bike in traffic or in low-light conditions (such as dawn and dusk), it's worth looking for an electric bike with built-in head and taillights. While increasingly common, it's not a standard feature on all models. 

Electric bike FAQ

What are the different types of electric bike.

Generally speaking, electric bikes fall into the same categories as non-electric bikes. Here's a quick summary of some of the kinds of electric bikes you'll find.

Road bike: These are meant solely for riding on roads, and are designed for speed. They will have thinner tires and curved handlebars, so that the rider will be crouched forward. Higher-end models may also be made out of carbon fiber, so as to make the bike as light as possible.

Mountain bike : Designed for off-road use, mountain bikes will have thick, knobby tires, full suspension, and a burlier frame to better absorb bumps and jumps. 

Fat tire bikes : Similar to mountain bikes, fat tire bikes are meant to be ridden off-road, usually on very soft ground, such as mud, sand, and snow. As their name suggests, these bikes have very wide tires — as much as four inches — which helps keep a grip on unsteadier terrain.

City/Commuter bike: Made for urban dwellers who need to get around town, a commuter bike will have tires that are somewhere in between a road and a mountain bike. Generally, the bikes will be configured so that the rider's back is vertical when seated, which gives them a better view of their surroundings.

Cargo bike: These bikes are made for carrying heavy loads, and will have a cargo area either in the front or rear of the bike. Because of the payload area, these bikes often tend to me much longer and heavier — and more expensive — than a typical bike.  

What is a good speed for an electric bike?

In the U.S., electric bikes are limited to 20 miles per hour; that is, they can only provide you with power — either through pedal-assist or with a throttle — until the bike hits 20 MPH. While you can easily go faster than 20 MPH on an electric bike, the rest of that power will have to be provided by you — or gravity. 

How much does an electric bike cost?

Electric bikes range widely in price. Some of the best cheap electric bikes start at around $1,000; you can certainly find models for less, but quality will be less. 

The bulk of electric bikes cost anywhere from $1,500 to around $2,500, and there are hundreds of models in this price range.  

Higher-end and specialized electric bikes — such as cargo bikes — will cost upwards of $3,000, and can easily reach $6,000 to $8,000, which is a sizable investment. 

rules and regulations

There has been a lot of confusion about ebikes (pedal assist versus throttle bikes) and where you can legally ride them. Some municipalities have banned ebikes from bicycle paths, for example. Many places classify ebikes depending on whether they can go full throttle and have a maximum speed of 20 or 28 mph. There are three official classifications:

Class 1: Ebikes that only assist while you pedal, with a top speed of 20 mph.

Class 2: Ebikes with a throttle that don't require you to pedal but have a top speed of 20 mph.

Class 3: Ebikes that only assist while you pedal, with a top speed of 28 mph.

So check your local regulations before you buy. And always wear a helmet.

Dan Cavallari

Dan Cavallari is the former technical editor for VeloNews Magazine, who currently reviews electric bikes, the best bike lights , best bike locks , and other bike accessories for Tom's Guide. In addition to VeloNews, his work has appeared in Triathlete Magazine, Rouleur Magazine, CyclingTips.com, Road Bike Action, Mountain Bike Action, CycleVolta.com, Tomsguide.com, and much more. 

Dan also hosts two podcasts on his site, Slow Guy on the Fast Ride: One is about cycling and other outdoor activities, while the other looks at mental health issues. Most recently, Dan also covered the 2022 Tour de France. Dan lives outside of Denver, Colorado with his family. 

John Quain

John R. Quain has been reviewing and testing video and audio equipment for more than 20 years. For Tom's Guide, he has reviewed televisions, HDTV antennas, electric bikes, electric cars, as well as other outdoor equipment. He is currently a contributor to The New York Times and the CBS News television program. John has also written our guide to the best bike helmets . 

how we test

All the bicycles in this feature were road (and in some cases, off-road) tested by Tom’s Guide reviewers and staff. 

The testing process begins when we first receive the bike; as most come only partly assembled, we assess the difficulty with which we have to put the final pieces together. Typically, this involves attaching the front wheel, handlebars, and pedals, but some bikes are easier to put together than others. 

Next, we take the bikes for a ride, evaluating their comfort, handling, responsiveness of their motors — some will be faster to apply power than others — as well as how they perform over a variety of terrain and conditions. For example, if we're testing a fat-tire bike, we'll take it off-roading; if we're testing a cargo bike, we'll load it with kids and grocery bags. 

If a bike has headlights and/or taillights, we'll also check to see how bright they are in dimmer conditions. After all, you're not going to only ride it during the day. We'll also try out any other safety features, such as bells and horns. 

We also evaluate the advertised battery range of an electric bike. Many companies will offer, shall we say, optimistic range estimates based on ideal riding conditions: A light rider using the lowest level of power assist, and traveling on a level road in 70-degree conditions. 

But, that's not reflective of real-world use. While it's impossible to replicate the exact same conditions from one bike review to the next, we do our best to provide as much detail in our reviews as to how we rode the bike (terrain, pedal assist levels) to determine how close to accurate the companies' claims are.

Finally, if an electric bike comes with an app — as is becoming increasingly common— we'll test it out too, to see how easy it is to use, and how well it works with the bike itself. 

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Mike Prospero

Michael A. Prospero is the U.S. Editor-in-Chief for Tom’s Guide. He oversees all evergreen content and oversees the Homes, Smart Home, and Fitness/Wearables categories for the site. In his spare time, he also tests out the latest drones, electric scooters, and smart home gadgets, such as video doorbells. Before his tenure at Tom's Guide, he was the Reviews Editor for Laptop Magazine, a reporter at Fast Company, the Times of Trenton, and, many eons back, an intern at George magazine. He received his undergraduate degree from Boston College, where he worked on the campus newspaper The Heights, and then attended the Columbia University school of Journalism. When he’s not testing out the latest running watch, electric scooter, or skiing or training for a marathon, he’s probably using the latest sous vide machine, smoker, or pizza oven, to the delight — or chagrin — of his family.

  • John R. Quain

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  • Marc-G Hello, I noticed a couple of errors in the article around pricing on a couple of the bikes. Regarding the Gazelle Medeo T9 classic, your article list a starting price of $1999 but clicking the link takes you to their site where the least expensive model is $2499 and no model called Medeo T9 Classic is available nor can such a model be found with search. The second model is the VanMoof S3 which is listed in the article with a starting price of $1999 but going to the site shows a price of $2299. As someone trying to persuade his wife that an ebike would be a worthwhile purchase for me, I’d be grateful if you would clarify these discrepancies. One last thing. On the article itself, it says it was published 21 hours ago when it was actually published on July 21. I’m going to assume some aspect of it was updated but I can’t spot any changes to it and would appreciate it if whatever was updated could be noted somewhere. Many thanks for the article. Pricing confusion aside, it’s been quite helpful for me. Reply
  • Marc-G Thanks for the reply. Just went back to the top of this page and realized that it said 2020. However, if that’s the case, why is it made to look like a recent article? Does that mean all the authors did was change the title from best of 2020 to best of 2021? That seems kind of disingenuous to me. Reply
  • mprospero Hi Marc - We've recently updated the pricing for all the models. We've also added new ones to this list as we've reviewed them. Reply
  • GFujioka You do your readers a disservice and reveal your partiality by not listing the 64,5 lb weight of your number one bike. Cheers. Reply
  • gtilford One factor that seems to be missing from virtually every review-support. I have some friends who could not get parts for their ebikes for 6+months, and they were only 1 year old. I've had problems getting parts with a highly recommended brand. The bike is well made, it performs well, but parts are nearly unobtainable. If I knew then when I know now about parts availability I wouild not have purchased the brand. Reply
  • View All 5 Comments

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trek 1200 alpha series road bike

IMAGES

  1. TREK, Alpha Series 1200 Road Bike, 54 cm, Red/Black/White For Sale

    trek 1200 alpha series road bike

  2. Men's Trek 1200 Alpha Series Road Bike Tiagra Size 56cm

    trek 1200 alpha series road bike

  3. Trek 1200 Alpha Series Road Bike

    trek 1200 alpha series road bike

  4. trek alpha series 1200 |Commuting / Crusiers

    trek 1200 alpha series road bike

  5. Trek 1200 Alpha Series Road Bike

    trek 1200 alpha series road bike

  6. Trek 1200 Alpha Series Road Bike

    trek 1200 alpha series road bike

VIDEO

  1. Modified 2010 Trek 1.2 Alfa

  2. Trek 1200 Build, Shimano shifter install, derailleur and brake cable adjustment

  3. Quick history of Colnago's C-Series road bikes! #colnago #cycling

  4. Trek Alpha 1.1 Road Bike

  5. Trek 100: Rescued, Restored and Modified

  6. All-New 2023 Triumph Speed ​​Triple 1200 RR Comes With Updates Of Engine Color And Design

COMMENTS

  1. Is The Trek 1200 A Good Road Bike? [Review]

    Trek 1200 aluminum road bike still considered the weight factor of this part at the time. Because the Trek 1200 is not expensive, it does not cut corners by using low-cost components. ... The bike is outfitted with a 100 Series Alpha Aluminum frame, 25c tires, and a carbon fiber fork. They share many similarities, but there are some differences ...

  2. Trek 1200 Road Bike user reviews : 3.7 out of 5

    The petals show wear, but function as new. The bike has a few dings, but nothing detrimental to the expected performance. Thus the asking price of only $250. The front tire is practically new, the rear tire shows some wear, but probably good for several hundred miles. The wheels are Bontrager Select.

  3. Trek 1200: Unveiling Its Unique Road Bike Traits

    The Trek 1200 boasts advanced technology, an aerodynamic design, and the robust Alpha SL aluminum frame, elevating its road performance. Quality components, including Shimano Tiagra and Bontrager Select, ensure reliable shifting and lasting durability. Its aggressive geometry and unique blend of materials cater to both casual commuters and ...

  4. 2006 Trek 1200

    A bike with lower gearing will be easier to ride up steep hills, while a higher top end means it will pedal faster down hills. Lowest gear. (climbing) 37 mph. 1200. 37 mph. Similar Bikes.

  5. 2006 Trek 1200

    Huge selection of road bikes from brands such as Trek, Specialized, Giant, Santa Cruz, Norco and more. Specs, reviews & prices for the 2006 Trek 1200. Compare forks, shocks, wheels and other components on current and past bikes. ... The 2006 Trek 1200 is an General road bike. It is priced at $830 USD. The bike is part of Trek's 1200 range of ...

  6. Trek Alpha Series 1200 Presentation

    Trek Alpha Series 1200 Road Bike Presentation. Nominate my video for an oscar.

  7. Trek 1200 2003 Road Bike

    5. ★★★★★. ★★★★★. Strength: Great looking bike (frame) for the money. Stable and neutral handling but also very stiff and responsive. Weakness: Tig welding is a bit raw and industrial looking. Curiously, despite having mudguard eyes front and rear there is no chainstay bridge.

  8. Trek 2000 1200 Triple Older Road Bike

    Trek 2000 1200 Triple Older Road Bike user reviews : 4.1 out of 5 - 14 reviews. Read it's strength, weaknesses, find deals and pricing - roadbikereview.com ... 2.9 lb. Alpha SL double-butted aero aluminum frame is handbuilt in the USA. ... used the midget 650c wheels. But the Trek 1200 has a smaller frame size using full size 700c wheels that ...

  9. Trek Alpha 1.1 Review

    One of the best entry-level bikes that Trek ever made was the Alpha 1.1. Even though Trek no longer produces this gem, the bike still has plenty to offer. ... Trek suggests the Edmonda series or the FX-1 for an entry-level bike for road riding. Trek also has a large selection of electric bikes. The FX+ is priced at around $2500, while the ...

  10. Aluminum road bikes

    Road bikes. Aluminum road bikes. Trek aluminum road bikes blend affordability, durability, and high performance in a surprisingly lightweight package. Built with our proprietary Alpha Aluminum, these top-of-the-line alloy bikes are perfect for fun road rides with friends, fast racing, efficient commutes, and everything in between.

  11. Trek 1200 Alpha Aluminum Road Bike (58cm) For Sale

    For sale is a Trek 1200 alpa custom Aluminum series road bike with a really nice skin :-). It can fit medium to larger sized riders. This bike is lightweight and has original shimano components.

  12. 2003 Trek 1200

    Alpha™ SL Aluminum. Superlight, large diameter tubing for exceptional durability and efficient power transfer. Fork: Bontrager Race, OCLV Carbon, 1-1/8" aluminum steerer tube, aluminum crown. Headset: AHS 1-1/8" semi cartridge, sealed. Stem: Alloy AHS, 17Ëš. Handlebar: Alloy road w/ergo bend. Saddle: Trek CRZ+ Road. Seatpost

  13. 2004 Trek 1200

    An aluminum frame general road bike with mid-range components and rim brakes. ... Trek; Road; General Road; Overview; Gearing; Specs; Rider Notes; Overview 2004 Trek. 1200. An aluminum frame general road bike with mid-range components and rim brakes. Frame: Aluminum: Suspension: Rigid: Fork: ... Alpha SL aluminum. Fork: Bontrager Race Carbon ...

  14. TREK, Alpha Series 1200 Road Bike, 54 cm, Red/Black/White

    TREK, Alpha Series 1200 Road Bike, 54 cm, Red/Black/White For sale on Pinkbike buysell

  15. Trek 1200 Alpha Series Road Bike for sale online

    item 2 TREK 1200 Alpha series custom aluminium 58cm frame racer road bike TREK 1200 Alpha series custom aluminium 58cm frame racer road bike. £105.00. item 3 Trek 1200 Aluminum Series Road Bike Frame Trek 1200 Aluminum Series Road Bike Frame. £1.00 0 bids 4d 20h + £15.00 postage.

  16. Review: Trek 1.2 road bike

    Poor. Bad. Appalling. The Trek 1.2 is a very good value option that would be an ideal choice if you're after your first road bike. The 1.2 is the middle of Trek's three 1 Series aluminium road bikes, sitting between the Shimano Claris-equipped 1.1 (£575) and the 1.5 (£750), which comes with Shimano Tiagra components.

  17. Trek 1200C Road Bike user reviews : 4.1 out of 5

    The 1200c offers the geometry of mountain & comfort bikes but the mechanics of a race bike. It has a suspension seat post and carbon forks. These smooth the ride. For riding upright it has an extra set of brake levers mounted on the upper bar so you don't have to go the drops all the time to brake.

  18. Trek 1000: Unveiling The Ultimate Road Bike Experience

    The Trek 1000 road bike, a classic in the world of vintage bikes, offers a delightful blend of past aesthetics with present-day functionality. ... One of the main contributing factors is its 7005 series aluminum frame, which keeps the weight low at just over 1.5kg for the frame only. ... The Trek 1000 road bike features an Alpha SL Aluminum ...

  19. Find a bike shop near you

    Showing 12 of 39 results. Back. ⌖ Use My Location. Store Locator by Locally.

  20. Trek is slashing the number of bikes it offers by 40%. Here's what that

    Trek's Marlin is an understandably very popular bike because it's primarily designed around the most reliable - rather than radical - components possible (Image credit: Trek) Brands on the run. While figures like a 40 percent reduction in bike range sound dramatic, it doesn't have to mean a loss of family favorites.

  21. Electric Bikes, E-Bikes, Pedal Assist Bikes

    Fuji E-Crosstown Electric Commuter Bike. $1,499.99. Fuji Sanibel Electric Cruiser Bike. $1,499.99. 1. 2. 3. Shop electric bikes, e-bikes, and pedal assist bikes at City Grounds to get around your city in style with the added boost of electricity! Choose from top brands in the e-bicycle industry including Super73, Crew, Hurley, and more.

  22. Trek 2200 Road Bike user reviews : 4.1 out of 5

    5. ★★★★★. ★★★★★. Strength: I purchased this TREK 2200 9/16/2004. It was a 2003 year close out. Regularly priced at $1,600.00 reduced to $1000,00 dollars. The first year I put 500 miles over a few rides. Then for year the bike was stored until this year after a full tune up an a set of new cleats.

  23. Langster Moscow

    Designed for everyone from competitive track racers to hard core urban commuters, the singlespeed Langster™ is an icon for pure and ruthless efficiency and unforgiving speed. If one of our A1 Premium Aluminum models isn't enough to satisfy those in search of their perfect track missile, maybe our new steel Langster with classic track geometry ...

  24. The best electric bikes of 2024

    Best overall. 1. Rad Power RadCity 5 Plus. View at RadPower Bikes. The best ebike for most people. It's not the flashiest, but we think the RadCity 5 Plus will more than fit the needs of most ...