I own two 520s. I've toured extensively with the 2002 model and have about 47,000 miles on it. It was stolen a year and a half ago and I replaced it with a 2009 model. I was fortunate to recover the 2002 520. I had S & S couplings installed and a new powder coat. I took it to Europe last summer. I use the 2009 one primarily for commuting. The original components on the older one were higher quality. My understanding is that in the years between these two bikes Trek switched from manufacturing them in the US to Taiwan. I prefer my older 520 as I think it fits me a little better and I have many great memories with it.