Originally Posted by
brushspin
For those of you unfamiliar with the new Trek 520, the 2019 model comes with clearance for 29 x 2.0" tires, front and rear rack, larger diameter down tube, and STI shifters.
Info about me: 6' 0" guy with a 35" standover height. Road bikes is 56cm and hybrid Trek 700 Multitrack is 23".
I always think the 26" model of any bike is going to look awkward on a tall guy like me.
It looks as though most people like the Suly much more and I can't deny the fact that the Trek model HAS skimped out on the components which means I'd have to replace some parts from jumpstreet anyway.
The only issue with that is I'd immediately void my two year parts warranty with Trek. I think it's nonsense.
I will be using this bike for commuting long distances to Uni and work all season long. Studded tires and mudguards will be an inevitably with the bike I choose.
I'll call around to other LBS to see if they have a surly. I really doubt it because here in NJ not many people are bikepacking, at least that's the feeling I get from most working at a LBS.
Thanks for all the replies ya'll.
26 inch wheels won't look awkward. I'm only an inch shorter than you and they are fine. As I said, I bought it with 26 inch rims on purpose. I like them, and like the choice of sizes. I also like the fact I can mount my Road Morph pump behind the seat post, between it and the wheel.
None of what I like matters though, nor does what anyone else likes, only you. I will just say that there is absolutely nothing wrong with 26 inch rims. I will also add that no matter which you get, have the spokes de-tensioned, re-tensioned properly. That will go a long way towards the durability of the rims. Mine were done by a competent wheel builder when I got the LHT, seven years ago, and they are still true. I did hit a chunk of concrete at around 40mph on a downhill that dented the rim, and after shaping it back using a hammer and metal block, the rim was still true.
You sound as if you are leaning towards the 520. That may say something. Look at what your reasoning is and go from there. For me, I prefer Tubus racks, so the racks on the 520 are not a selling point. The racks on the 520 are most likely absolutely fine. I also don't really care for STI shifters on a touring bike, and prefer bar ends, and have friction only now. The Surly came with indexing on the rear, and when they failed, I replaced them with good, friction only, after having switched the failed indexing shifter to friction after it failed. You though, may prefer STI. For touring though, and commuting, I don't find myself constantly making small gear changes. I do like being able to make large changes at once with friction shifters though, blasting downhill, then being able to make a large change in gearing as I go up a steep hill.
As for the components on the 520, if you feel you would have to immediately upgrade them, don't buy it, that would be a waste of money. If you buy the 520, ride it with the OEM components until they give you issues, then replace them.
It's all in what is important to you.