Trek Emonda SLR 6 Disc Pro H2 P1

When the first-gen Emonda SLR appeared, jaws dropped everywhere. It was light. Like, science-fiction light.

Trek has somehow managed to make a lighter version of the Emonda's SLR frame, but can run disc brakes.

Let that soak in for a second. The disc-brake-ready version of the Emonda SLR frame weighs in at an absurd 665 grams for a 56cm frame (H1 fit). The disc brake fork is also an all-carbon unit, and weighs only 350 grams. That's actually lighter than the previous-gen caliper-brake version. How did the mad scentists at Trek in Waterloo do it?! They started with a revamped version of their in-house 700 Series OCLV carbon fiber material. The qualities of this year's 700 Series OCLV carbon is different due to changes in raw material, layup schedule and resin formulation. With the aid of in-house digital prototyping, the Emonda SLR's frame design also went through refinements from stem to stern. The hourglass-shaped top tube and stouter chainstays are the more obvious clues to the new Emonda SLR's changes, while 12mm thru-axles add torsional anchor points for better power delivery and handling. The tapered head tube and BB90 bottom bracket are still there, but they function better with the improved frame architecture and material "recipe". Aerodynamics didn't enter into the equation; only lightness and ride quality mattered when the Emonda SLR Disc was under development. Internal cable routing keeps the Emonda SLR Disc looking sleek, while an aperture in the left chainstay for a DuoTrap S speed/cadence sensor (sold separately) eliminates the need for clumsy zip-ties. The ride quality was improved with the new 700 Series OCLV, giving the Emonda SLR a smoother feel over rough pavement.

Equipping the Emonda SLR with Shimano's excellent 11-speed Ultegra R8000 components was an easy choice. Known for light weight, precise functionality, and overall durability, Ultegra components just work well for racers and recreational riders alike. The dual-control STI levers require less effort to shift than the previous generation, and still boast an adjustable lever reach for smaller hands. The tucked-in Shadow-style rear derailleur can handle much larger cassettes while shifting better under hard pedaling loads. The front derailleur's toggle-pivot design also requires less effort to operate. An alloy Ultegra 50/34T crankset and 11-32T Ultegra cassette bring a wide gearing range to every challenging ride. Hydraulic disc brakes aren't just for riding in the rain; better lever feedback and improved stopping power makes for safer braking in any conditions, wet or dry.

High performance can be found in the Emonda SLR's rolling stock as well. Bontrager's OCLV carbon fiber Aeolus Pro 3 Disc wheels are tubeless-ready and very light. They're shod with Bontrager's R3 Hard-Case Lite tires. Bontrager also supplies the saddle, accessory-ready alloy Blendr stem and alloy Elite road handlebar.