Touring - Trek 520 Size

I have a Trek 5200 which I really like but on very extended rides over 50 miles I do experience neck and shoulder pain. (I have had a professional fitting). I thought I would try a different bike for very long rides and future touring. I can ride my commuter bike for very long distances and don't get the same pain. After monitoring this forum I see that the 520 is a highly recommended bike at a good price. I hope that the touring set up and different geometry will be better for me.

I have an opportunity to get a really good deal but not through my local bike shop. My question is concerning getting the right size. I have a 56 cm 5200. It seems to be the right size. What would be a comprable size for the 520. The sizes offered are in inches.

Originally posted by bjlaw
I have a Trek 5200 which I really like but on very extended rides over 50 miles I do experience neck and shoulder pain. (I have had a professional fitting). I thought I would try a different bike for very long rides and future touring. I can ride my commuter bike for very long distances and don't get the same pain. After monitoring this forum I see that the 520 is a highly recommended bike at a good price. I hope that the touring set up and different geometry will be better for me.

I have an opportunity to get a really good deal but not through my local bike shop. My question is concerning getting the right size. I have a 56 cm 5200. It seems to be the right size. What would be a comprable size for the 520. The sizes offered are in inches. Why don't you go to www.trekbikes.com and compare geometry charts. TT length is probably most critical.You also need to figure out what is causintg the discomfort on the 5200,other than possibly low bars and lack of fitness or conditioning.

Good advice Pokey

I went to Trek's web site to compare geometry.

I have been into my LBS several times to try many different adjustments on the 5200. I also commute 46 miles round trip to work during good weather so conditioning is not a problem. However my commuter is a converted Trek 6500 mtb. The geometry is very different of course. I never have the neck and shoulder problem on this bike. Also I never a have the problem on my old Falcon 10 speed when I take longer rides on it.

Hi,
try raising the stem a little. Another thing worth trying is exercising arms + shoulders with weights.

Look in the Performance Bike catalog. They have an adapter that raises a threadless headset 3 inches.