Trek Madone 4.7 2012 Review
For 2012 Trek have completely redesigned their race performance Madone 4 series, designed for fast acceleration, lightness and possessing a number of advanced technologies, each bike in the Madone 4 series is undoubtedly one of the best bike ranges created by this gigantic American manufacturer.
Part of their redesigned Madone 4 series is the Madone 4.7 model; with a high quality 400 series OCLV carbon frame the Madone 4.7 possesses the perfect equilibrium of strength and lightness. This winning combination means that competitive riders can feel the rigidity and power of this frame with each pedal stroke. Design features included on the Madone 4.7 frame only further enhances the supremacy of this bike, in particular the H2 fit of the Madone 4.7 provides riders with the same geometry and ride quality of Trek’s H1 fit. However, the slightly higher head tube reduces the amount of strain placed on a cyclist’s neck and back providing riders with a more comfortable riding position. Other racing performance designs featured on the Madone 4.7 include Trek’s exclusive carbon BB90, this wider bottom bracket only helps to lighten and stiffen the carbon frame for quicker acceleration. The front of the Madone 4.7 features a carbon bladed Bontrager Race Lite fork with E2 aluminium steerer; the tapering design of the steerer stiffens the entire front end of this bike for extremely responsive steering.
The winning combination of Shimano Ultegra and 105 components mean the Madone 4.7 has a sporting, racing feel. The Shimano Ultegra derailleurs, with direct-mounting front derailleur, coupled with a Shimano 105 11-28 10 cassette create accurate, lightweight shifting. The Shimano Ultegra brakeset that includes Ultegra STI levers offer smooth and precise braking, while the option to choose either a triple or compact crankset for a wider or narrower gearing range enables riders to select their preferred setup. The components of the Madone 4.7 ensure the Madone 4.7 has an undeniable aggressive racing feel, however the relaxed geometric design of the frame ensures the Madone 4.7 has a more sporting feel that makes it an ideal choice for longer journeys in the saddle. Overall this bike enables serious cycling enthusiasts to enjoy a tour-winning, aggressive ride while remaining comfortable on more ambitious rides.
Trek Madone 4.7
Rating by Adam Samuel: stars £££
Written by: Quatos