2016 trek alpha 1.2

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Trek Alpha 1.2 Review

February 9, 2023

‍ Key Takeaways

• The Trek Alpha 1.2 is a decent entry point to mountain and trail biking.
• The components are reliable, but won’t set any records.
• Handling and ride quality are serviceable, but braking is a major downside to this bike.
• Experienced riders will notice a bouncier ride and less responsive shifting.

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

‍ This bike may not win any awards, or be able to compete with pricier models, but this could be a good first mountain bike if you’ve never ridden one before.

The Trek Alpha 1.2 is a budget-friendly option that utilizes the brand’s quality components in most areas. There may be some compromises considering the more specialized options out there, but rest assured that despite its flaws this bike is no slouch.

We’ve looked at the most-reviewed features (including the negatives as well as the positives) to bring you the best info available on the Alpha 1.2.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

‍ Where to Buy the Trek Alpha 1.2

The Trek Alpha 1.2 costs $959, and can be purchased directly from the Trek website .

A Brief History of Trek Bicycles

Trek was founded in the 1970s, attempting to penetrate the high-end market that had up until that point been dominated by European makers. It quickly gained a reputation for quality, with a foundation on hand-built steel frames.

However, launching its own factory in the 1980s meant that it also had to keep with the times, which meant a shift to aluminum frames. It also meant the advent of hybrid bikes, which combined the best of mountain bikes and road bikes into one line. The next decades led to several brand acquisitions and consistent recognition in the marketplace for excellence in quality and performance.

Trek’s Bontrager line of accessories is also a gold standard for those wanting to customize their bikes. They also held a long-standing licensing agreement to produce LeMond bikes, a prominent brand in speed racing (although this brand has since been discontinued).

Trek Alpha 1.2 Specs and Geometry

The Alpha 1.2 has had several iterations over time, which means that although it is a budget-friendly option, it has had the chance to improve over time. Trek does a good job of incorporating research and features from its higher-end bikes on down the spectrum, and the Alpha is no exception. It benefits from the quality parts Trek has built its reputation on over the decades.

The Alpha 1.2 weighs 21.5 pounds. This is a lighter bike for sure, which (in addition to a price point under a thousand dollars) makes this a great starting point for riders that are exploring mountain and trail riding but don’t want to break the bank just yet.

This lighter bike weight does mean that the overall weight capacity is slightly lower. The total capacity (which includes the bike itself, the rider, and all equipment and accessories) is 275 pounds. This may not cause problems for the majority of riders, but if you plan on bringing any kind of gear with you on the trail, you will want to think carefully about what you bring along.

The handlebars are not curved, which can make it easier to bring them back to a straight-forward position. This is a benefit to those who might not be used to a curved setup, although it does have some limitations for more experienced riders and may be a less comfortable position on longer rides.

The price point and equipment set does put this bike at the lower end of the spectrum when it comes to quality and all-around excellence. This does not in any way diminish the many positives of this bike; but when set next to its bigger and more expensive counterparts, it lacks some luster and looks appropriately less outstanding by comparison.

There are seven different sizes to choose from, making this a versatile choice no matter what size you may be. A little planning and research gives you the perfect fit for your personal size.

Trek Alpha 1.2 Build Quality

We hesitate to return to the term “affordable” too often, but it does come into play when thinking about the build quality and included components. It is affordable in most senses of the word, and while that does not mean the quality is poor, you could do better by shelling out a few extra dollars and going with a more premium model.

Like many Trek bikes, the Alpha 1.2 features an aluminum frame. This lends to the overall lighter weight, and sets it in great company with its Trek brethren as sturdy bikes that will hold up to whatever Mother Nature can dish out.

The frame does rise at the front end, which does create a more comfortable upright riding position. This is a simple tweak that seasoned riders will appreciate, and can provide a helpful learning experience if it’s your first time on the trail.

As with other elements of the bike, the fork is also lightweight, which makes handling a bit easier to manage

The drivetrain assembly features a 2x9 setup, allowing for low and high shifting at any speed. This is a perfectly reliable option that adds a welcome layer of control for those who want to get the most out of their performance.

That being said, it is a slightly less specialized version than the one found in the road-going bike. This is one area where Trek may not have cut corners, but has instead opted for a less premium setup that shows in what results from the sum of its parts.

The pedals, however, seem to be of higher quality than can be found on other budget bikes. The various pieces will hold up well over time, and offer an easy pedaling experience. This is a positive that may seem simple, but is invaluable while out on the track.

Trek Alpha 1.2 Handling

The lightweight frame does cause some roughness in the ride. It may not absorb all of the shocks and bumps that come from rough terrain, but the ride quality is not diminished in such a way as to render it a miserable experience.

Over calmer terrains, the lighter tires do create a smooth ride. They are 25 millimeters wide, which is narrow by most standards but perfectly serviceable on this bike.

The Alpha 1.2 does accelerate well for its class. Easy pedaling and solid speed control create a fun experience on steady trails and uphill climbs.

The main downside to higher speed is that the brakes leave something to be desired. The brakes are a dual-pivot design, which is nowhere near as effective as hydraulic disc brakes. This is a major pitfall, and can especially cause problems if you have trouble managing your speed on downhill grades.

Overall, however, the handling and ride position does create a balanced seat for the rider. You can be confident in your control of the bike, and in how you can respond to your surroundings.

Trek Alpha 1.2 Ride Quality and Performance

One other complaint related to the ride quality is that the seat can be hard. This component is fairly easy to customize, however, and it may be worth looking into this if you plan to keep this bike for any length of time.

While the lighter tires do make it a capable performer in turns and straights, they can cause some wobble over trickier patches. Use extra caution when going over gravel or rockier areas, as the lighter tires will show their shortcomings if you’re not careful.

Climbing and Descending

It isn’t the fastest climber of the bunch, but it gets the job done. There’s plenty to like about this bike, even if it won’t set any records flying uphill.

What it lacks in uphill speed, it more than makes up for on the downhill push. But as we’ve noted, that’s not always a good thing. Keep your wits about you, and be ready to pay extra attention to brake management so you don’t spin out of control.

Trek Alpha 1.2 Pros and Cons

Trek alpha 1.2 pros.

The Alpha 1.2 makes the most of its Trek brand reputation, and leans heavily into the components it has built its name upon.

It is a lighter bike than others at higher price points, with the trademark aluminum frame that Trek is known for.

Setting the handlebars in a more straight configuration may turn away some trail-riding veterans, but this can lend itself to a stable and reliable ride for those who need to log more hours on the trail.

The acceleration is reliable enough, and the ride position will make anyone comfortable on straight tracks and uphill climbs.

• Brand reputation and overall quality
• Light weight
• Aluminum frame
• Straight handlebars
• Reliable acceleration
• Solid handling and comfortable riding position

Trek Alpha 1.2 Cons

The Trek Alpha 1.2 does come at an affordable price point, but it does follow that the components and build quality will be slightly lower than other bikes.

The drivetrain is less specialized, and while that may not mean much to some, it can turn away other riders who may want that level of control.

It does feature a rougher ride due to its lighter weight, and the lighter tires also take away some stability. It may be fine on steady tracks, but when the going gets tough you may want to think about upgrading in certain areas.

One area you don’t want to skimp on when upgrading this bike is the brakes. Look into how you can best fix this shortcoming by choosing new brakes after purchasing, or decide if it’s worth choosing a different bike altogether.

• Lower overall quality when compared to premium models
• Less specialized drivetrain
• Rougher ride due to lighter frame
• Lighter tires are less stable
• Braking leaves much to be desired

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About THE AUTHOR

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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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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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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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.

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13 comments.

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.

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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Coats also seem to cost a lot more these days. 

So Ratboy mentions Froome and Bernal, does he not realise their serious injuries were caused by themselves and not something on the race route?

Yes. Very tasty indeed.

. Another super article, Mat - many thanks. .

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• Rider Notes

2017 Trek 1.2

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

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Based on frame geometry and build specs.

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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Nov 2016 · Marc Abbott

An aluminium race-bred Sora smoothie from Trek

Decent range of Sora components

Robust but comfortable

Fast and responsive

Sluggish brakes and tyres

Slightly restrictive gearing

Read Review

Jan 2016 · David Rome

Unfortunately, the 1.2 doesn’t quite do the Trek badge justice – nervous-feeling tyres and weak brakes left us lacking confidence in this entry-level model. Buy if you're after a solid entry-level bike, and don't mind spending extra on replacing the tyres and brakes

Proven frame geometry with balanced handling and position, quality wheels, saddle

Tyres, brakes, tight handlebar bend, and did we mention tyres?

Jan 2015 · Mat Brett

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

Last updated July 21 Not listed for 2,455 days

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Product Key Features

• Material Aluminium

Trek Road Bike Bikes

Trek road racing bikes, trek bike frames for road bike, aluminium seatposts for mountain bike, trek hybrid bike bikes.

2016 Trek Alpha 100 Series 1.2

• Serial: WTU155C9555G
• Other serial/registration/sticker: WTU155C9555G
• Manufacturer: Trek
• Model: Alpha 100 Series 1.2
• Primary colors: White
• Frame size: 49CM
• Frame Material: Aluminum

Distinguishing features

Stock frame, white tape, aerobars, black Selle Italia bike saddle with cut out, Shimano clips, Garmin 520 bike computer

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Trek 1.2 WSD Road Bike

Trek's 1.2 Triple WSD is a shining example of trickle-down technology. The heart and soul of this speed demon is Trek's Alpha White aluminum frame and the Bontrager carbon fork, an impressive combination shared with much more expensive machines. Add the Shimano 24-speed drivetrain, powerful dual-pivot brakes and select Bontrager parts and you have an amazing road rig ready to take you everywhere you want to go, from touring the countryside to cruising local loops for fitness.

• USER REVIEWS

For being my first road bike or any real bike, this bike is great. I tested a flat bar hybrid and this one and loved this one. It was much faster. I know that the parts are not top of the line but they work great for my kind of riding. I can't wait to get back on the bike after each ride. Perfect for me!

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Trek 2.1 Compact review

Madone handling for the novice

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Simon Withers

The 2 series range from Trek is based around the same geometry as its top flight Madone. Unlike those all-carbon creations, the 2.1 is constructed with Trek’s 200 Series aluminium, and the frame’s quality is evident with nicely finished welds and a carbon fork plugged in up front.

The drivetrain is what we’d expect at this price, with Shimano 105 shifters and mechs and a lower spec R600 compact chainset, its 50/34 rings complementing an 11-28 cassette. This is gearing that will get you up and over most climbs. All the finishing components come from Trek stablemate Bontrager, with everything from the bar tape to the tyres bearing the name. The Bontrager SSR wheels have proved trouble-free, good, honest, budget items. Combined with steel beaded R1 tyres they’re no lightweights, and contribute a fair amount to the bike’s 9.2kg.

The ride of the 2.1 is good for its intended rider. Our 58cm test bike has a rider-friendly 57.3cm top-tube combined with a 7-degree rise, 100mm stem, creating a comfortable but not too sedate riding position. The handling is predictable and the ride reasonably smooth, and that comfortable position isn’t so upright that it compromises the out-of-the-saddle feel.

Climbing on a 9kg-plus bike could be a chore, but that’s not what we found. We certainly enjoyed descending on the 2.1, its combination of smooth, vibration-free front end and weighty wheelset making for a very stable and predictable ride. We found we were pushing that bit harder on long descents as the 2.1 really does inspire confidence in its abilities.

As a choice for your first foray into serious road bikes the 2.1 has plenty to offer. The quality frame has a good, race-inspired position and comes with eyelets for mudguards, making it a great year-round ride and an ideal commuter. We like that Trek has kept the same fine geometry and handling traits of the brilliant Madone for what is, essentially, its novice range.

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