Why I ride a vintage Trek.

Find out why I chose to ride a 1988 Trek 400 for my bikepacking trip, and why it's my main bike right now!
Follow me on Instagram: / christopherinreallife

[@markspahr242]

I have a '07 Trek 520. It's a wonderful road bike. Front and rear lugs for racks & fenders and lugs for 3 water bottle cages. It's the longest made bike in the Trek lineup. A bit pricey at $1,200 but worth every penny on a long ride. I'm only buying one! And that's why I'll be riding a vintage Trek!!

[@chrisharper2658]

Instead of using an older road bike it would make more sense to get a vintage large frame mountain bike and fit it with skinnier tires. That would get you the gearing you need. People are discarding them left and right. They're fun to fix up but due to the supply issues, tire selection has also been limited.

[@johnanderson8705]

decked out my 700 with Schwalbe Marathons new gearing, sprockets, and handlebars. Love it.

[@someinconsequentialusernam7799]

I got a ‘92 Trek 2300 - with the composite main triangle - for about $250 and it came with a 105 triple front ring. Whatever was still in good shape, I kept. I updated the rest, it rides smooth as silk, and now it’s one of my favorite bikes.

[@chriskolitsch1053]

You can take my trek 700 multi track from my cold dead hands. I bought it used and am very much in love with it

[@johnharveyI]

Easy fix for the gearing - put on a triple ring crankset. Keep the original crankset, but function will be much more enjoyable with a triple.

[@electrocit673]

^this and/or get a new cassette with more range. I know your rear derailleur can't handle the full range if you go with a wider range cassette but you don't need it to anyway. Set the chain to just barley fit the big chainring and the largest gear in the rear. This will make you loose the small front and smallest 2/3 gears in the rear combo but that is an over lapping gear anyway. better yet go 650b and you can use 35mm tires. you may or may not need longer reach brakes. I have centurion that would not fit tires wider than 25mm, I can run 35mm comfortably (with fenders too). I did it as an experiment with cheap sta-tru wheels, loved it so much I never changed it back and still have the same wheels on it. Full disclosure I did swap the rear hub to fit a cassette and run a 10 speed 11-32 on it now. The prices have gone up but you can get the rear with a free hub body for 110 and the front wheel for 60. You can also make it a triple using a triple-izer. that said you can also use a triple or triple-izer to make it a lower geared double by just using the middle and small rings.

[@ninetailsnet]

he dont wanna change or upgrade any part of it because he only using it while he can't buy a new bike he wanted due of all of the bike store he knew was sold out.

[@electrocit673]

@@ninetailsnet the cost of upgrading the part (especially if the bought used parts) would be minimal compared to the amount of added usability. It is no comparison buying adding a crank and or cassette to a new bike. The cost difference and availability are very different.

[@ninetailsnet]

@@electrocit673 now ask yourself. Why he did not do it? What his reason.

[@electrocit673]

@@ninetailsnet lol it's circular, that leads to asking why not do it, HAHAHA =D

[@AndyJame-kf5hs]

*Looked at a lot of options for getting my **Latest.Bike** . Great find in SAVA. Super light, nice components, really good value as it comes with many options only found in much higher priced bikes.*

[@markahles1580]

I too purchased a Trek 400 for $100. Love this bike. Simply added new Nitto bars and stem for a better fit. The perfect city bike. Would dare take it in the dirt. Too nice!

[@JohnPilling25]

I have the exact same bike from 1985. I switched the crank to a compact 50/34 chainring when I replaced the worn out bottom bracket; switched the back wheel to one that would take an 8 speed cassette and put on a 11-36 mtb cassette. I needed a derailleur hanger extension to drop the rear derailleur down to go under the 36 tooth mtb cassette ring. I moved the rear shifter to friction rather than index and it all worked. I have panaracer gravelking 700-32c tyres and yes they do fit in this beautiful frame. Works great for me. Lowest gearing is now 34-36 which will get me up most hills. I recently replaced the downtube shifters with microShift R8 to give a modern combined shift and brake in one, they work great.

[@carlosgaspar8447]

have a 1986 trek 500 frame to build in possibly a similar manner; have a trek 560 but not much clearance for big tires on that. have used 9-speed microNew shifters which are very smooth despite looking fragile but will probably go with shimano on the trek 500.

[@carlosgaspar8447]

just discovered that both the trek 500 and 560 came with helicomatic hubs/freewheels, which look great conceptually, but will most likely mean a new drivetrain. have kept the 560 as is for now, but have already changed the 500 to 10x2-speed tiagra.

[@johnsmithers284]

That's basically what I'm doing with my Bridgestone RB-2. Nice to know it worked out for someone else.

[@mountainsmoore3657]

I have an '86 Trek mountain bike that I have been riding for the past two years and I love that thing. I am about to take it apart and do a complete service and tuning, then I plan to ride it on a long bikepacking trip this summer. I have a much newer, Marlin 7, but I still just want to take this thing.

[@davidcrowson4745]

Beautiful bike, the tubing design is amazing... Hope you still have this one.

[@Coolchris158]

I have a 94 Trek 1220. It needed some love. New tires, cassette, chain, shifters, cables, housing, bar tape, and a wheel true. I use it for commuting, and honestly haven't had too many complaints.

[@OM-sb2bd]

You ain’t kidding about the bike situation. I finally ended up sourcing the one I wanted from a shop 2k miles away, and getting them to ship it to me. I swear it was the only one of this bike in my size in the US-at least per my zillions of internet searches and phone calls. Of course when the supply chain issues are finally resolved we’ll all be rolling in every bike/size/spec we could hope for…..but who knows when that might be. Kudos to you for improvising in the meantime!

[@chrisevans3804]

I just took delivery of a new bike, after 630 days of searching! It's wild out there. There was literally ONE in stock in my size when I added it to the cart (purchased a Canyon Endurace). Glad you found your ride as well! Ride safe.

[@chrisgarland5003]

Sweet! My dad gave me his Trek 560 last year. Its an awesome bike but I think I'll be keeping it on the roads for now. Great to see other Trek bikes from the same era in the wild. Enjoy!

[@chrisevans3804]

That's so cool, enjoy the vintage ride!

[@aaron___6014]

Buying a 560 Pro today.

[@MilesCobbett]

i rode my TDF racebike with 23 lb of touring gear from Idaho Falls to Jackson Hole and up the Grand Tetons and through Yellowstore over the Continental Divide and then across Montana. My front chain rings were 53-41 and rear cog was a 13-21.

[@furquansiddiqui8170]

I just purchased a mint example of this bike for $350 (in Canada, market is crazy here as well) as my first road bike. I'm really enjoying riding it.

[@chrisevans3804]

That's awesome! It really is a great road bike. Fair price for what you got!

[@michaelchin3550]

You did a really nice job reconditioning the bike.

[@snatchhog]

Love Trek bikes...vintage are even better sometimes...raw, rare, basic and awesome

[@dctruckguy]

old bikes are cool. I just went through this myself. Picked up a Cannondale caad8 and then changed everything on it so I didn't save any money, but I have a nice bike

[@timmannchicken]

I realize this video as of April 21', and several here have mentioned re-gearing. FWIW, I too have original 1987 Shimano 105 Groupset on my Ironman, same gearing as your Trek. While it is easy to swap to newer group set's, I wanted to keep the original Shimano 105 equipment. Shimano made a 13,15,18,21,25,30T cog, that helps a little with hills. I found one Ebay and swapping it was NBD. Look for part number MF-Z012 (supposedly they have a 32T and 34T, but I wasn't able to fine one).

[@grumpynerd]

I have a similar vintage Lotus touring bike. Because it's steel I was able to spread the rear triangle to 130mm to accomodate a 10 speed rear cluster. I replaced the old 27 inch wheels with a pair of 700c wheels I built myself, and mounted Panaracer Gravelking 38mms on them. I replaced the rear mech with a clutched derailleur from a mountain bike I converted to 1x. The downtube shifter friction shifts the 10 speed cluster fine, except it doesn't quite have enough travel so I don't get to use my smallest cog, which is no great loss. I have no problem with downtube shifters on the road, but offroad having to tandem shift front and rear is a pain so I replaced the triple crankset with 2x crankset and modern bottom bracket, an arrangement that was lighter, stiffer and reduced the amount of front shifting I needed to do. For actual gravel riding 1x would have made more sense, but since the bike is ridden on the road a lot I wanted to keep at least 2x. Finally I replaced the narrow Nitto bars with ultra-wide PNW gravel drop bars, which made a *huge* difference offroad. Overall the result is a highly competent gravel machine that still functions as a touring bike. About the only thing you could wish off-road were hydraulic brakes. I was very happy with it, but after getting a 650b gravel bike the Lotus became somewhat redundant. So I'm now converting it into the world's finest *opafiet*. I've put north road style bars on it and control the mech with a pair of mountain bike trigger shifters. The frame won't clear both 38mm tires and fenders, so I'm going with 35mm Marathons. Eventually I plan to build new rear wheel on a 7 or 8 speed internal gear hub and switch to a belt drive. The plan is to use it as a utility bike for grocery runs, beach trips, and loaning to people who don't understand drop bars and complicated gearing setups.

[@RickMeijer]

Haha waar zit je subscribe knop? Sounds like a fantastic plan! You have to search for the right bikeframe though, bought an old peugot sport, which rides fantastic, but the tubing is not great. Anyways; I'm not sure if the stiffness of the bike allows for a belt drive. It's no great loss, IMHO, but Gates do have rigorous tests before bike manufacturers can add it to their design. Kind of makes me wonder if it's feasable to do an aftermarket fit

[@grumpynerd]

​@@RickMeijer I couldn't possibly bring myself to cut the frame for Gates drive but I thought I might try Veer's split belt. I have experienced the frame flexibilty problem with Gates drives firsthand; I was spending a few months in Chicago and bought a 3 speed omafiet to get around. It had been adapted for Gates drive, and really mashing on the pedals caused the belt to skip a tooth. The step through frame just wasn't stiff enough, but understand I'm a power lifter who weighs 115 kg, it would have been fine for my 50 kg sister. The skip was annoying but not a deal breaker. Overall the ability to leave the bike parked outside in the slushy Chicago late winter made the belt drive a win. The Lotus's diamond frame should have considerably more lateral stiffness than that step through.

[@nihonbunka]

I just got a 2007 Trek Madone for $400. It is a brilliant ride! The only problem is that it has had a crash and the rear derailleur hanger was bent inwards. Then I realised that hangers are not replaceable (except at a Trek factory) but one-piece/integrated. I am slowly bending it back but I am scared I will break it off.

[@jerrysmith7166]

awesome bike. i was in San Antonio working during covid. San Antonio is an amazing place for cycling, i was never a rider, but i i was out there for 7 months with nothing to do. I went to go buy a bike and nothing was available! i happen to see a goodwill bike and furniture store, which I'd never seen before here in Fl, so i decided to go in. I ended up finding a near mint USPS 120 OCLV with SRAM power meter, vector procomp wheels in near mint condition. They were asking 900$, i walked out the door with it for 400$. this thing is in amazing condition for its age. it's the replica that Lance won on. In the Trek catalog that year, it was selling for 5,,500$... that would be over 10k in today's money... crazy

[@rafriedman]

I think there is something admirable about “good enough.” I just did a four day, 170 mile tour on a 1987 Takara that I modified over the years. Tires are 32mm and did some short dirt sections, but I needed that super low gear and luckily, the front triple is a 26 and I had a NOS spare 14-34 freewheel in my parts bin. I just got a Trek 400 from 1983. May convert to 650b for next summer’s adventure. Bike shortage may last into 2023, then we may see some bargain used gear, although I’d be happy if the world just kept on cranking.

[@chrisevans3804]

That's great! Sounds like a fun ride and a fun project bike.

[@rafriedman]

Winter project is rebuilding a 1983 Trek 400 and 650b wheel building and conversion for one of my old bikes.

[@carlosgaspar8447]

@@rafriedman i have a 1986 raleigh portage that came with stock 650b and canti brakes (deerhead) and raleigh tires.

[@archermunson-biselx3134]

I have a 1986 trek 300 that i did a full gravel build on. 1x10, 700x35 tires, and other similar stuff to make it great for lighter bike packing

[@garyggleffe8292]

Revived Trek 1500. 52,42, 13-25. Found used triple 46.36,26. Put a 28 cog on cassette. Has Uniglide hub but Hperglide cogs will work . Just grind down the one big tab to fit into slot on free wheel. Mountain bike Hperglide cogs work also. I can enjoy this bike now. All this info is on Sheldon Brown-bicycle technical information web sight

[@chrisevans3804]

Nice! That sounds like an excellent modification. Sheldon Brown is a great resource.

[@AFFFilms]

I just bought an 86/87 Trek 2000 and am a bit newer to the gravel bike community. Is there a possibility of changing the tires to something a little bigger or is the frame too narrow? Additionally, could the gears be swapped?

[@fortesfortunajuvat6782]

I can understand the nostalgia factor and the price. Can't understand why people aren't willing to spend money on off brand bikes. Bought 2 and am looking at a 3d from Bikes Direct. May not be the name you're looking for but, I've never had any trouble from either of the 2 I have and don't suspect that I'll have any problems from the new one, either.

[@Fireflyorange]

does anyone have any opinions on the trek 990 I was thinking of picking one up. I like the look...

[@bobcoen9285]

Like the trek. Still riding my '88 trek 950. Only replaced the seat, but the grips are going next. Been looking for a new trek, but no luck. Pedal on!

[@chrisevans3804]

That's great! Sounds like you have lots of life left in your Trek. Good luck on your search for a new one, the bike availability is still rough out there 😭. Cheers!

[@pacifist1360]

I have recently purchased Trek 5200. Excellent bike, the best one I've ever had. Mine is slightly used but in great condition. It's about 5 years old and its carbon frame and fork, gator tires and shimano brakes and gears are outstanding. By far the best bike I ever had. Rides smooth like silk. It's so light and firm at the same time that even with its thin tires, I don't feel any bumps, and an accent on this bike is almost as easy as its descent. I bought it at a local shop for $975. I've seen people selling Trek 5200 for $600. Well worth the money for a bike that's worth $3,000.

[@cupcakescorner7684]

Take care while you are treking in the wild. You got an awesome bike

[@chrisevans3804]

Thank you!

[@yardsalecycles]

I love riding vintage steel road bikes but to be honest I usually put a newer wheel set to be able to put a bigger cassette on them

[@desperadodeluxe2292]

Obviously that freewheel should be the first thing to go.👍

[@cooperdabest]

Sick bike bro am looking @ trying to get one now am super excited!

[@chrisevans3804]

Good to hear, it's a fun bike! Good luck in your search!

[@ericscottstevens]

Today bought a Trek 8000 ZX (1996) for $19.99. A 20 dollar bill basically. Gray with green neon decked out with Shimano, Rox forks, all the top end sets. Everything works. Also have a 1995 US frame Gary Fisher Montare, that one time a guy begged me to sell it to him but I kept it. Cannot overlook the good old stuff, it was built to last and show how much we care to keep our money instead of buying new.

[@gravityalwayswins1434]

I’m original owner of 89 trek 8500 mtn bike. 3x7, commuter seat, wide flat bars, thumb shifters, 30 lbs. my daily rider. mondial 26x2.15 tires. simple, easy to maintain, tough, fun to ride. one flat on mondial in 1402 miles.

[@toddmcdonough]

I just built up an 89 Bridgestone RB-2 but instead of 700c I went with 26" mountain wheels. That way I can fit 1.5" wide (38mm) rubber that does pretty well on gravel. I needed to get a set of long reach caliper brakes to reach the smaller rims. For gearing, the best option is to swap the cranks for a 46/30 tooth combo. That would get you almost to a one to one ratio. Of course, this is money you probably don't want to spend. I like projects like this.

[@chrisevans3804]

Oh, very interesting! Smart thinking on the custom build, I have not thought of that approach before. Thanks for the suggestion on gearing, I'll have to look into that more!

[@carlosgaspar8447]

i have a 1986 raleigh portage with 650b wheels (panaracer makes good tires for that) but most such wheels these days are for disc.

[@Biking360]

It's a great bike but I wouldn't fancy it when hitting the hills! However, it's a fantastic bargain and an absolute classic. It might not be ideal, as you say, but go with what you've got... for now. Great video, subbed, hope you get the time to check out some of mine here in Thailand. JP the old guy.

[@chrisevans3804]

You're right! It is a great bike. Thanks for the comment and sub, I appreciate it and I will definitely check out your content as well, cheers!

[@johnnydoe66]

I still have my 1991 Trek 2100Pro w/all original Shimano 105. I did have the wheels rebuilt using the original hubs, straight gage spokes, and Mavic CXP33 rims. I replaced the fork and headset when the bike was 7 yrs old w/ an Aheadset headset making it threadless and a Profile carbon fork. Even though I have a full carbon Masi Evolusione Ultegra, I still break out the Trek periodically. I know it probably won't help too much with climbs and the weight your carrying, but it's possible to replace the 42t with a 39t. That's I believe the lowest that will fit the crank

[@chrisevans3804]

Oh interesting! Great info, thank you! Sounds like you have a well cared for sweet ride 👍.

[@xmoroseguyx]

You could try to fit a new lower range cassette, That I presume would be easy and cheap enough and should make a difference

[@breathestrongcycling3672]

Older Treks a very underated. I have an 85 560, payed 150 bucks with almost all its original parts. It's a keeper. Ride it daily....and it's faster off the turns and is stiffer than my Colnago super, although the super steers better on a high speed descent. Also in my ownership experience it's better made than the Italian bike... especially when you see the relative market value...

[@chrisevans3804]

I didn't know what I was missing until I got my vintage Trek! I do love the fact that I can do anything on this Trek that bikes worth 20 times more do too. Relative market value, indeed!

[@carlosgaspar8447]

i have the 1986 version with reynolds 501 and tiny brake calipers which hug the tires, so no way to put 28mm on it. these bikes are selling for less than 40 years ago.

[@rudyramos5911]

I love the 560. I own one for over a decade....it's keeper Best regards......Rudy

[@rollinrat4850]

I had an '85 Trek 670. Reynolds 531, race geometry with a Campy drivetrain. Later I upgraded to Dura Ace 7400. This was among Trek's last steel race frames. Their aluminum bikes were just coming onto the scene. It was fast and very comfortable with high end tubular tires for the extra sew up wheels I built. Skinny clinchers in those days were awful! That bike could corner like nobody's business and was stable to well over 60 mph. I tested it on long Sierra passes several times. I sold it when I got the mtb bug. I'm still looking for a nice old '80s-'90s steel Trek touring frame for loaded touring.

[@kurtkehren830]

I got a red 89 400 just like yours a couple months ago, I’m using it as a college bike but was thinking of turning it into a touring bike so I can go on trips across my home state of Michigan, do you thing if you got a wider fork it would be able to take 32c?

[@chrisevans3804]

I imagine you could get a 32c tire on the front if you got a wider fork, yes. The issue you will probably face is the limitations with the backend of the bike. I currently have 28c Vittoria Rubino Pro road tires on the bike now, and I think that's probably the max size I can go on the bike. Because you can't change the width of the rear stays, you will be limited to around 28c maaaaybe 30c on the rear. But, I'm certainly not an expert, those are just my thoughts based on my experience with my bike. Honestly, I'm quite happy with my 28c tires, they are very comfortable on the roads and are perfect for touring. Ride safe!

[@shaunhilliard6895]

If you still can't find a gravel bike? I'd look for a Trek 520 or CX bike

[@hewhoiswillbe879]

Curious....any legal compensation for your accident?

[@theinspector1023]

42/28? Bikepacking? Bloody hell!

[@sscbkr48]

Just cleaned up my T 930 with Judy RS .. cool bike, bought it in Or. '97. I'm back into MCs.. much easier to pedal. 👍

[@danbolton3180]

Now is the time for bike manufacturers to create bicycles with class and character instead of pumping out trash for a quick buck.

[@marcusathome]

Well, yeah... it's a road race bike! But why not putting on a compact crankset (50x34) combined with a 7 speed cassette (32x11)? That would help uphill. And maybe swapping out the tyres for cyclocross 33mm wide ones for better grip and a little more compliance?

[@chrisevans3804]

This actually falls under Trek's definition of a sport touring bike. Max tire size I can fit is a 25mm Gravel King tire. But, you are right, I could upgrade the gearing although I have no plans to. I love it stock!

[@schore69]

how do you like these shimano oval chain rings?

[@chrisevans3804]

Zero complaints. I like the feeling of powering over the top of the pedal motion. I was odd feeling at first, but I don't even notice them now.

[@jhwi]

hello what is your tire dim, enought space for 700/35 ?

[@chrisevans3804]

I was able to put 700/28 gravel tires on there, but no bigger than that.

[@jhwi]

@@chrisevans3804 i project to go down a river on the banks, who are sometime in earth or large gravel; 700/28 could be enought. I will mesure when the project becomes precise. Thanks for the idea exchange...It's lower prices than a gravel bike!

[@locuscades1906]

Found an 88 trek 1200 on my hometown page, but I'm curious to know if you've found any bikes. I'm seriously ready to just strap some big wheel roller blade on my feet I stead.

[@chrisevans3804]

I feel you! I haven't purchased a new bike yet either. I've been paying attention to a few Canyon models online, but they sell out pretty quick. I haven't walked into a bike shop in 18 months, maybe there's a waiting list for new stock?

[@Panda_trax]

Could you please do an over view of your bike!? It’s beautiful

[@chrisevans3804]

I'll add it to the list!

[@josephakendrick529]

I love your bike. I have a couple like it. No need to explain to me.

[@bikechingu]

For 60 bucks, it's a steal. 👍

[@jrstf]

Love my Trek 420 with 3x7 gearing but I stick to the roads.

[@marianneoelund2940]

My daily rider is a 1990 Trek 420 in ice blue. I bought it second-hand in the 1990's and installed an Ultegra 2x9 drive train on it, for commuting to work. A little later, I bought a new rear wheel built with a PowerTap hub. A couple of months ago, a guy showed up to our group ride with a 1990 Trek 1100, same color, but all original parts. We made a real head-turning pair. Recently I changed out the 12-27 cassette and rear derailleur for a new 11-34 cassette and medium-cage derailleur. Now I'm not afraid of any hills. :) Although it might be nice to have a modern bike with disc brakes, I'll probably keep going with my vintage steel bikes (and one aluminum) until I can't pedal any more. My oldest bike is a 1973 Schwinn Sports Tourer, modified for foul weather with an internal-gear hub, enclosed chain and drum brakes. In two years, I'll be having a 50th-birthday celebration for it.

[@syedasim6666]

My dearm bike with tubular gear sets ❤️

[@chrisevans3804]

It's a fun bike!

[@aaron___6014]

what is a tubular gear set?

[@syedasim6666]

@@aaron___6014 the shifters will ne intergated in down tube instead of handle bar.

[@infiniteandroid]

How do you air up the tires …. They are weird … this is my first road bike …. Got it free at a garage sale

[@chrisevans3804]

I'm not exactly sure what you mean, but you may be referring to a Presta valve. You will need an air pump that can fit on a Presta valve. Many bike pumps can fit both Presta or Schrader valves. Any bike shop can also help you if that option is available to you. Have fun with your new ride!

[@infiniteandroid]

@@chrisevans3804 ok thank you ...yes ..thats what i needed to know

[@peterbedford2610]

How wide a tire can you fit?

[@chrisevans3804]

I was able to put a 25c Panaracer Gravel King tire on there for my offroad adventures, and a 28c Vittoria Corsa road tire for road rides.

[@StanEby1]

I guess by 1988 they had switched the frame from Japan tange mangalloy to USA True Temper chromoly.

[@mauriceortiz1557]

Vintage Treks rule ^_^

[@s_university_blvd]

i am in the exact same situation as you. got hit by some bitchness now bikeless looking for a bike. i feel you, good luck!

[@indy2867]

It’s at least a size too small for you. You want the 22.5 size, not the 21 inch. Then you bring the bars up further, and ride in the drops, not the hoods, like it was designed for. 👍

[@glennpettersson9002]

But it looks so cool, form over function.

[@650gringo]

I bought my 1988 Trek 400 for $100, it's got the triple chainrings up front for hills. I put upright bars, a tall but short reach stem and a Bontrager seat made for sitting upright. And Shimano MTB pedals that I had in my parts box. I love this bike, it is far and away the most comfortable bike I have ever ridden. It goes like the wind. What they say about quality lugged chromoly is true, it flexes just enough to smooth out the ride. Trek made incredible machines back in the '80's!

[@aaron___6014]

Just bought an old 1986 trek 560 yesterday and if you think a bike of this vintage rides well, well you should ride some bikes built after 2010. I went though it all last night and it's in good condition, but after a short 10 mile rip with hard sprints and hills. Good God it sucks. Any decent amount of power and the front end feels like it's made of wood. I had plans to swap out the bars, seatpost, wheels and saddle with modern stuff but the handling and ride is just so disappointing...even with modern wheels.

[@chrisevans3804]

Steel definetely rides different to modern bikes! I would say steel is probably an aquired taste, and certainly not for everyone. You have a sweet vintage bike on your hands. I prefer carbon for daily riding, but I love to pull out the vintage Trek for easy rides or to show it off.

[@aaron___6014]

@@chrisevans3804 I have a 2011 reynolds 520 steel crit racing bike with a cro-moly fork. It rides very similar to a carbon bike of the time and it's super responsive both to power and steering. I would guess geometry has changed a lot since the 80's. But the front end is definitely harsher over the rough stuff.

[@vkelly2701]

My 1983 trek is just as good or better than any handbuilt european bike.

[@marct9942]

I have a passion for vintage bikes, but I detest the fact that modern gearing cannot be mounted.

[@cheasok9768]

If you were in the Atlanta area I would trade you my ‘91 Giant Sedona mtb with 40mm slick tires. It’ll be better for your gravel use. Anybody else in my area wanna trade their road bike for it? Let me know

[@backtoids]

nothing like a good bike ride after shooting avengers endgame

[@neoneherefrom5836]

ok

[@fehrcarlo2381]

I've seen bikepackers on single speed bikes kicking it! I don't think you are all that worst off

[@gerritfourie2239]

Time now to join a "VINTAGE CYCLE BIKE CLUB ",,,,,,,,,(RSA)

[@chrisevans3804]

There's an idea I hadn't even considered!

[@recyclespinning9839]

Road bike and off road , 2 different animals ...

[@chrisevans3804]

Had to work with what was available at the time. No regrets.

[@johnhickman2033]

Give up with the new carbon crap and stick with the homemade retro bikes; they are perfectly okay if you upgrade them a tad!

[@chrisevans3804]

Sound advice!

[@desperadodeluxe2292]

I ride trek 820 single track (st) with i dunno what year like late 90s early 2000s it has a solid tube crown with suspension forks hardtail clunker. couldn't find another one like it 26" rim brakes (Taiwanese steel baby.🥷Mtb flatbars with antler extenders. I run a 3*8 Front biggest is 48 and rear is 32. Pretty much pushing it has trouble in lowest gear because the chain is loose but gets uphill with all the resistance. I carry a fxckload of horshxt and it runs like a sailboat. I have it like a low rider with 175mm crank arms. I want some folding pedals because the bike itself is small and it can be put on the bus more easily. Go for e bike parts. Going downhill i fucking fly past road cyclists (unless they actually have good shxt) and can keep up on flats if i have traffic for drafting. I get on the highway and im flying like a maniac.

[@karllager2214]

Bought the same bike, same color a month ago. 🤌 $150

[@paulmcknight4137]

That Trek rides fast on paved roads with gears that can handle speeds from 6 mph up to 25 mph at normal 70-80 rpm cadences. Riders easily "train up" to attack the hills in 42-28. Off road, 28 mm smooth tread tires spin out on dirt on steep inclines. [Ask me how I know. :)] On smooth tarmac, that gear is a piece of cake. If a horse and buggy made it up, so will you. It'll work the fast twitch muscles, challenge the heart and lungs, and you'll get stronger, recover from hard efforts more quickly, and have the endurance of a prize fighter. Rode 125 miles from DC to the Del. eastern shore a few years ago, on a "fast touring" road bike, exactly like your Trek, same gears, loaded up with 80# of camping gear hung over the back wheel. 28 mm tires might have been a little skittish under that weight, but the bike rode steady, handled the bumps just fine at 12-17 mph, and climbed the hills like a pro. The baggage, about half my body weight, didn't slow me down all that much. When you finally acquire that dream bike, keep the Trek around for winter riding or commuting on wet roads. 28 mm tires would be perfect for street riding with a backpack in the urban jungle. Can that thing take fenders? Looks like there might be enough room. They're a huge advantage if you ever get caught in the rain, or on wet roads after the rain. Are you comfortable with that stem length and handlebar drop? You've got the saddle pretty high. It must be a smallish frame. If you wanna make it a keeper, I'd consider a longer stem to give your back a little more room.