Trek Madone 7 SLR Gen 8 Review
Price: $9,000
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)
Quick Verdict
The new Trek Madone 7 SLR Gen 8 is a sharp-handling, lightweight, and aerodynamic road race bike that replaces the Émonda and Madone with one all-rounder. It offers strong value at the top tier with Project One customization, though it’s let down slightly by a fragile headset cap and tight competition on pricing.
Pros
- Lighter yet just as fast as its predecessor
- Sharp and responsive handling
- Improved compliance with IsoFlow
- Clearance for 32mm tires
- Project One customization options
Cons
- Top-cap cover is fragile and prone to rattling
- Other high-end bikes offer better value at similar specs
Ride Impressions
The Madone 7 SLR Gen 8 feels agile, aerodynamic, and stable at high speeds. It climbs well thanks to a 320g lighter frame, and the new Full System Foil tube shapes improve airflow and structural efficiency. Handling is sharper than Gen 7 – a pro for racers, but possibly too twitchy for casual riders. Ride comfort has improved thanks to increased compliance through the IsoFlow seat cluster.
Specs at a Glance
- Groupset: Shimano Ultegra Di2 R8100 (52/36t, 11-30t)
- Wheels: Bontrager Aeolus Pro 51 TLR (1,590g, DT Swiss 350 internals)
- Tires: Bontrager Aeolus Pro TLR (stock), upgrade to Pirelli P Zero Race TLR
- Saddle: Bontrager Aeolus Pro (145mm width)
- Weight: 7.27kg (M/L)
Geometry Highlights (M/L)
- Stack: 562mm
- Reach: 389mm
- Head Angle: 73.5°
- Seat Angle: 73.4°
- Wheelbase: 980mm
- Tire Clearance: 32mm
Final Verdict
The Trek Madone 7 SLR Gen 8 is a smart consolidation of Trek’s race lineup, combining the best traits of the Émonda and Madone into a single platform. With improved comfort, race-ready handling, and top-tier customization via Project One, it earns a strong 4-star rating. Though pricey, it holds its own against the Tarmac SL8, SuperSix Evo, and Canyon Ultimate.