Name: Tony Swift

Bike: 2021 Trek Emonda SL7

Why bought?
I’ve had and enjoyed a Giant Defy 105 for many years. Over the last few years, more and more SIC buggers were arriving on the rides with new bikes. Always with disc brakes and some with electronic shifting. Some club members such as President Pete, Sam, Glynn, Derek and others are Trek fans and I listened to lots of conversations about the brand over post ride coffees. Once I had brand sorted, I narrowed down my criteria. I wanted discs, Di2 and a price tag of < $10K. That narrowed it down to either the Trek Domane or Emonda. The 3rd option was the Madone which I personally didn’t like the look of. Domane is marketed more as an endurance bike, but I decided that over the next several years, my typical riding range would be 50-100km, so I opted for the lighter Emonda. The final piece of the puzzle was the look of the bike including the colour combination which I personally really like.

What’s it like riding?
Amazing. I hadn’t used Di2 before and its superb. Makes for super quick and accurate gear changes. I especially love hearing the little motor making micro adjustments post shift. The disc brakes are brilliant and I’m especially relieved that there hasn’t been any brake noises so far, fingers crossed that will continue.
If you are after a super soft ride, the Emonda is probably NOT for you. It comes standard with 25mm tires that can be changed to 28mm. I may do that when I eventually change the tires. The ride is a little harsher over rough terrain compared to the Giant, such as parts of the Akuna ride. It’s advertised as being a “stiff” frame and that’s exactly what i’ve experienced. On a smooth surface, it’s absolutely perfect. Light and responsive and does everything well. The wheel depth is 37mm and combined with the overall lightness, I expect descents in high wind could be a bit hairy.
I’m planning for the Trek Emonda to be my 2nd last bike with an e-bike being the last. I’m really happy I now have the latest technology and it’s given me new motivation to get out there and continue  with the sport.