Trek Speed Concept 9.5 (2014)

No compromise aerodynamics for the discerning triathlete

Pros

- Integrated Design and technological ooze
- Project One Customization
- Aerodynamic optimization in every way

Cons

- Brakes hard to set up
- Customization only good if you like Bontrager parts!

Review

A bike like this needs little introduction. What it does need however, is 20 minutes spent at your local Trek dealer, so they can explain the sheer amount of technology in this bike. We can't cover it all here, but we can provide an overview.

The Trek Speed Concept 9.5 (or 9 Series for those in the know), is from the top notch of Trek bikes. The 600 series carbon fibre frame features a range of technology to increase stiffness and aerodynamics, as well as the market's widest bottom bracket. This makes it the most aerodynamic bike available as well as offering some of the highest power transfer readings. The frame is also host to KVF Kammtail Virtual Foil technology, which is another discussion all unto itself. It's awesome, so visit Trek online to learn about it!

Integrated storage on this bike is another Trek First achievement, with a variety of storage locations throughout the bike. It might sound like you're packing a mini van, but the additional storage actually increases aerodynamics. This is contrary to the mentality of carrying as little as possible. Instead, carry everything you need!

The bike is fully integrated, in terms of handlebars, cables and seatpost. This reduces wind drag, but can make things hard for your mechanic. It's all worth it in the end though...

Group-set wise, this bike can actually be purchased with whatever you wish, all courtesy of the Trek Project One design program. Again, a topic of it's own - but basically you can choose the frame and then choose EVERY SINGLE PART individually, including the paint job. Do it! You can select from Shimano, Campagnolo and SRAM components, depending on what you'd prefer to ride.

All other parts on this bike are Bontrager in name and quality. Again through Project One, you can select the Bontrager wheels, seat, tires, stem, handlebars and bartape. It's actually quite fun designing your dream bike, regardless of whether you intend buying it!

Typical with Trek, the Speed Concept's aggressive geometry does not make it difficult bike to ride. On the road It is well balanced and feels positive and composed. In saying this it is a bike suited purely to triathlon and time trial riding, so avoid it if you're after a leisurely cruise on a weekend. It's a performance bike through to the core... and very good at attracting speeding tickets!