Trek Madone 6.9 with Shimano DI2
After some years, I’ve opted for a new bike, a very nice one which I’ve saved up for, but given the amount of time I spend biking, it’s well worth the brief nausea of paying for it! This is the bike I’ll be training on and riding in the Everest Challenge.
Wheels
I won’t be using the stock wheels, I'll trade them in. A sudden blowout from the clinchers 99% of riders use is not an option for me (two blowouts is 2 too many, and too painful— I have the scars to prove it).
The wheels will be replaced by Lightweight Ventoux 240 carbon fiber wheels with Veloflex Record (front) and Veloflex Sprinter (rear) tubular (sew up) tires.
Madone 6.9 SSL and Shimano Dura-Ace DI2
I’ve ridden Trek carbon fiber bikes for about 6 years now, and the ride is fantastic.
The latest Madone 6.9 frame should be outstanding, but the neat new trick is the Shimano DI2 electronic shifters (Amazon has DI2 @AMAZON).
When a jaded bike mechanic raves about them and buys, you know they work great. They have ultra long battery life, auto-trim, and mis-shifts banished, or so I hear. And can tweaked (generally not needed) with the push of a button.
Another cool thing is that there are no mechanical cables to lubricate or replace— long term reliability and lower maintenance.
SRM Wireless PowerMeter DuraAce 7900
To measure power output and gauge my training fitness, I’ve chosen the SRM Wireless PowerMeter DuraAce 7900 compatible cranks, and SRM PowerControl 7 head unit.
I know there are some less expensive alternatives out there (Quarq, Garmin), but I carefully assessed all my needs, took a look at both the cranks and head unit alternatives, and that’s the best choice for me. Report to follow after some experience.
I’m also not willing to sacrifice the brilliant Shimano 7900 chain rings; my previous Ergomo Pro power meter with ZIPP cranks would mis-shift or drop the chain occasionally, sometimes with near disastrous results. I don’t want compromised shifting or strength in the cranks or rings, even if it’s a“minor” difference.