Race-ready, lightweight, innovative, efficient, durable
In the relentless world of cross-country mountain biking, speed is everything. But speed alone won't cut it. You need a machine that's as adept at technical descents as it is at uphill sprints. Enter the Trek Supercaliber Gen 2.
Riders know that to conquer courses that grow gnarlier year by year, your bike needs to evolve too. Supercaliber Gen 2 understands this, giving riders more with 110mm of front travel and 80mm in the rear. This boost in suspension means that even as the trails throw bigger features and rowdier rock gardens your way, you’re cushioned and confident.
But what sets this bike apart is its heart – the IsoStrut shock. Trek's exclusive invention straddles the boundary between a hardtail and full suspension. It’s a structural marvel, providing damped, tunable travel. And with those unique pivotless seatstays? You're in for a ride that’s both smooth and fast. That’s amplified by the latest RockShox SIDLuxe IsoStrut, ensuring those rocks and roots are mere ripples beneath you.
Now, for those who truly prize a featherweight steed, the Supercaliber SLR, in its Carbon Red Smoke variant, tips the scales at a paltry 9.3kg. That's some serious engineering, stripping away every superfluous gram but maintaining strength and integrity. And for those who want to go lighter without compromising too much, the Supercaliber SL is there as a trusty steed.
Details matter in a race. Ever been gasping for hydration in the final stretch? Supercaliber's got your back, with room for two full-sized water bottles. And it's all in the details with the innovative brake mount, which floats around the rear axle. This design choice ensures the smoothest ride possible while enhancing braking performance.
Speaking of details, the Gen 2's progressive geometry deserves a nod. The cockpit's been elongated for added stability, making those rowdy descents feel like a walk in the park. And with a slacker 67.5° headtube angle? Even the steepest, most technical sections are effortlessly navigable.
Comparing it with its predecessor, the Supercaliber Gen 1, which was more for the purists with its shorter travel suspension and steeper geometry, the Gen 2 offers more capability without sacrificing that signature speed.
In the realm of cross-country mountain biking, where races can be decided on the roughest patches, the Trek Supercaliber Gen 2 stands out not just as a formidable contender, but as the bike to beat. It's a culmination of design, innovation, and sheer love for the sport. The kind of bike you'd want on your side when every second counts.
Pros of the Supercaliber Gen 2:
- Enhanced Suspension: With 110mm of front and 80mm of rear travel, the Gen 2 offers increased compliance, allowing for a more comfortable ride on rough terrains.
- IsoStrut Shock: Trek's exclusive technology offers a unique combination of hardtail efficiency and full-suspension comfort.
- Lightweight Options: Choices between the Supercaliber SL and the even lighter SLR mean riders can prioritize weight savings without compromising on performance.
- Hydration Capacity: Designed with racers in mind, the bike can accommodate two full-sized water bottles, keeping riders hydrated during long races.
- Improved Braking: The innovative brake mount design ensures enhanced braking performance while allowing for a smoother ride.
- Progressive Geometry: The Gen 2’s longer cockpit, slacker headtube angle, and increased travel all contribute to improved stability and control.
- Race Proven: An impressive track record with over 30 gold medals from world-class competitions vouches for its top-tier performance.
Cons of the Supercaliber Gen 2:
- Price Point: Price starting at $4,199.99, the Gen 2 might be out of reach for some riders, especially those on a budget.
- Potentially Over-Engineered for Casual Riders: The bike's advanced features make it ideal for serious racers, but might be excessive for recreational mountain bikers.
- Maintenance Complexity: The advanced technologies, especially the IsoStrut shock, might require specialized expertise or tools for maintenance and repairs.
- Comparison with Gen 1: Purists might still lean towards the Gen 1 due to its simpler design and more traditional cross-country attributes.
From $4,199.99
