New bike, Madone appears faster. :o)

[stormer94]

WHOOHOO, got my new bike yesterday, got all the computers on it this morning and took it for a ride on one of my normal courses to compare it to the older bike.

I went from a Trek 5200 with Rolf wheels and 8 speed to the new Trek Madone with Bontrager's and a 10-speed.

So far, based on some pretty good data to compare it with, I'd say the new bike has improved my mile times on flat ground by about 5-8 seconds, and in the climbs I do, about 10-12 seconds a mile.

The older bike was also a 58cm, and I went to a 56cm after a lot of debate and measuring, and I think it was the right move for me.

I'm using the stock, rock hard, and pitifullly small USPS seat on it for the time being. I had a really nice "man friendly" seat on the 5200. We'll see how my "manware" and back hold out with the new saddle.

Can't wait to ride some more. :)

[kennf]

Congrats on the new ride. I've got a '99 5500, and I'll turn 40 next year. I'm thinking a new Madone or a 5900 would be an awesome birthday present to myself. Although it will be hard to justify, when I keep getting passed by guys on 20 year old steel frames with toe clips!

[stormer94]

Originally posted by kennf
Congrats on the new ride. I've got a '99 5500, and I'll turn 40 next year. I'm thinking a new Madone or a 5900 would be an awesome birthday present to myself. Although it will be hard to justify, when I keep getting passed by guys on 20 year old steel frames with toe clips!

I don't mind getting passed by those guys, it's that they are usually wearing regular blue jean shorts, and having a regular conversation with their buddies while they blow by. When they blow by I can barely muster the energy to wave or nod.... ;)