Originally Posted by Wittyname

Looking at Trek's site, your bars have a reach of 93mm. My 2014 Crossrip came with the old SSR VR-S bars, with a 70mm reach, and I'm a huge fan of the bike; try it with a new set of handlebars like the Cowbells that Salsa replaced the Bell Lap with and maybe you've find yourself warming to the frame.

The bike does suffer from a bit of identity crisis, I'll agree. Trek marketed it as a 'cross bike, but the handling is much more accurately described as 'stately' rather than 'nimble'. It makes a great all-day tourer or out-and-about bike, and I've taken mine out for group rides, but it's really a bit ponderous for fast-paced close-quarters riding

*edit* And since it's sitting 20 feet away after today's commute, gratuitous picture!