Originally Posted by
badger1
Correct.
I'm not familiar with the Trek grading, but I am with Giant's and Specialized's. There is a distinct difference between Aluxx and AluxxSL, and A1 and E5 respectively. The higher grades are lighter, dampen road noise more effectively through much more complex butting/shaping, and stronger.
Whether this matters to a given cyclist is a separate question, but the differences are real.
That is the essential difference, for example, between a Giant Escape and a Giant Escape RX. Wheels aside, one can do nothing to 'upgrade' the essential characteristics of the former in relation to the latter; given equivalent wheels/tires/components, the latter will always be a slightly nicer bike overall than the former. That's in part what one is paying for at retail.
This is good to know. I didn't look too close at the details on the frame. But since I already have my bike, it's a moot point for me, LOL. I've still done the upgrades and it was fun.