Trek 520 vs Carpe Diem
 

Hi,
I'm getting ready to buy my first Touring bike. I was pretty set on the Trek 520, but the Airborne Carpe Diem also seems to be a good deal. From what I gather, the 520 is sturdier, but a bit slower. The CD also has a relaxed geometry, like the 520, but is lighter and faster. It's a tiny bit pricier, and because it's not steel is less durable and more difficult to repair. Is all that correct? What other important differences are there? Most importantly, does anybody have a preference between the two, and why? Thanks,

Harry

As an addition, I just found a previous thread comparing 520, CD, and BLT. I did a search on the site but this didn't come up, only through google, so sorry about the reposted question. However, if you haven't posted to that survey and have an opinion on the matter, please post! Thanks,

Harry

You must be talking about the Carpe Diem with the aluminum frame, not the Ti frame wich is over 2k. In which case most avid tourers will recommend the steel 520.

I would recommend the 520 over the Carpe Diem not because of the aluminum but because of the geometry. The Carpe Diem has short chainstays that would make it a poorer choice for touring over the 520. Aluminum is not a problem. I ride a Cannondale T800 that is a wonderful bike.

Here are some older threads comparing the two.

http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=50156
http://www.bikeforums.net/showthread.php?t=5341

I've had both bikes, love them both. But the 520 was mangled in car accident. I replaced it with a 26” wheel touring bike. The 2001 CD ti is still in the garage and i will ride it until the day i die.