Originally Posted by k_freese
Trek doesn't put linear-pull brake studs on their competition level aluminum hardtails anymore. If I were to ask them to send me another model with studs, they would ship me a 4500, which is a considerable (to put it lightly) downgrade from an 8900...
If you are competing I'm sure you'll welcome the chance to upgrade your frame for the cost of new wheels and brakes.
How does the 4500 compare to your seven year old frame? I'm sure due to technology drip down they are rather comparable.