I have not owned a Trek OCLV before, and was just at a bike shop that had one for sale. First off, it was the 5000 series, year 2004. I'm assuming that is 9spd, it was full Ultegra.

My first question is: is there any difference between frames at all for the OCLV road frames? I know that the Madone is different, but other than that, are there any differences? Also, are there any differences between years of OCLV frames?

Second, is this a good deal - the 5000 w/ full ultegra for $1329 US? Yes, brand new in the shop, marked down from I believe $1900 or $1999, or somewhere around that.

Looking forward to hearing people's thoughts on the deal, and also information about the frames themselves. Thanks.

It uses the 120 series OCLV frame, which is the same one Postal rode in the '99 Tour. The 110 series is a little lighter but I'm not sure they even make it anymore now that the Madone and Madone SL are out.
The parts are a mixed bag of Ultegra and 105 with a healthy dose of Bontrager (house brand). Mostly 105, I think.
That price looks like a steal if it fits. List is $2200 or $2300 IIRC.
I'm hoping to buy a new ride this year and the 5000 is high on my list if I can afford it.

The price sounds good to me, as far as differences in years it would be hard for us commoners to discern, I'm sure the newer ones (110) are lighter and maybe stiffer, but the difference is so small your set up (wheels, group, etc) will have more of an effect on the bike IMO. I'd buy it and ride it as is until I new exactly what I wanted. Good Luck

I just saw it at the shop yesterday, and from what I remember it was full Ultegra (der.'s, brakes, shifters, and I believe even cranks, but I can't be absolutely positive). Bontrager wheels (anyone know if those are any good?), Bontrager post and stem.

If it really is all Ultegra (ie. if I am recalling correctly), that is a great deal, isn't it?

I just saw it at the shop yesterday, and from what I remember it was full Ultegra (der.'s, brakes, shifters, and I believe even cranks, but I can't be absolutely positive). Bontrager wheels (anyone know if those are any good?), Bontrager post and stem.

If it really is all Ultegra (ie. if I am recalling correctly), that is a great deal, isn't it?


Sounds like a very good deal. Make sure it fits!! They usually step down a number of components for the 5000. 105 bottom bracket, and front derail. 105 brakes, C1 headset, Bontrager Race wheels. Some shops make changes when the build them up though. Check the bike for the specifics install. None of those changes are specifically bad- you get what you pay for. If you ride it, it feels good, gets you excited about riding and fits your budget, then its a good deal for you- nobody else matters.

I am 5'9", inseam of about 32", and currently ride a 53cm bike. I do all the standard things (eg. while sitting and on the hoods, I can trace a line through the handlebar through the front hub, which is supposed to indicate proper fit and riding position - that's with a 110mm stem). Does this sound correct? It feels good, I've logged thousands of miles on that bike as well.

I am 5'9", inseam of about 32", and currently ride a 53cm bike. I do all the standard things (eg. while sitting and on the hoods, I can trace a line through the handlebar through the front hub, which is supposed to indicate proper fit and riding position - that's with a 110mm stem). Does this sound correct? It feels good, I've logged thousands of miles on that bike as well.

Always hard to judge fit for someone else. But for comparison I fit well on a 58cm Trek- I have a 32" inseam as well, but am 6'2" (low waisted bugger that I am..) so need the longer top tube. Would seem you would be in the hunt for the 54 or 56 then. But only you can tell. Get your LBS to spend some time fitting you, if they will allow, go ride the thing for a good 30 minutes. Listen to what your body is telling you - any back pain, numb hands etc. The nice with Trek is all the OCLV geometry is the same, so if the LBS has some other models in other sizes you can ride those knowing they will be same frame size as a 5000.

Thanks for the input, Mr. Moab. Unfortunately the bike is 2.5 hrs away, so I would be doing this by mailorder or at best going to pick it up, but taking it for a ride isn't possible as it is below zero here now (snow and ice do not make for a good test ride, particularly on a road bike).

One other question I have now, is what is the real difference between OCLV 120 and 110? Is there anything of significance? Do they ride different, look different, weigh different?

I am 5'9", inseam of about 32", and currently ride a 53cm bike. I do all the standard things (eg. while sitting and on the hoods, I can trace a line through the handlebar through the front hub, which is supposed to indicate proper fit and riding position - that's with a 110mm stem). Does this sound correct? It feels good, I've logged thousands of miles on that bike as well.


I saw your inseam and had to reply.I am 6' 1.5" and also have a 32 inch inseam. The point is that although you have traced etc etc.

Get on the machine. IMO, there is no substitute. Again, IMO.

Thanks for the input, Mr. Moab. Unfortunately the bike is 2.5 hrs away, so I would be doing this by mailorder or at best going to pick it up, but taking it for a ride isn't possible as it is below zero here now (snow and ice do not make for a good test ride, particularly on a road bike).

One other question I have now, is what is the real difference between OCLV 120 and 110? Is there anything of significance? Do they ride different, look different, weigh different?

The difference between 110 and 120 is going to be a slight difference in weight, but likely not enough that you'll be able to notice. An all-Ultegra OCLV for that price is a good deal. The frame is be worthy platform for any future upgrades - hyper-light wheels, 10-speed, etc.

As for Bontrager wheels...They are all based on Rolf's paired-spoke design and have proven to be durable and reliable. My 200+lb. brother-in-law rides a set of Race Lite wheels and they've been bullt-proof for him - better than his Ksyrium Elites.

One other question I have now, is what is the real difference between OCLV 120 and 110? Is there anything of significance? Do they ride different, look different, weigh different?
No difference in looks. Some will say a very subtle difference in "feel." But I think it is very, very subtle. You probably whouldn't notice any difference in feel. The only real difference is that the 110 weights slightly less. Not light enough though, in my opinion, to justify the premium cost that trek charges for the 110.

The 5000 frame is the one that the posties made famous riding in all those tours. Only last year did the entire team switch to the Madone. Lance has several tour wins on this frame.

I can't see much of a difference in performance or feel between the 5000 frame and the madone 5.2. But with the 5.2 you do get a better fork and newer model which will hold it's value longer because it is the new model.

Treks are for Armstrong posers. I mean, nothing wrong with that, but just telling it like it is. People are going to think your a wannabe. Again, nothing wrong with that. It's up to you.
spoken like a true poser

Treks are for Armstrong posers. I mean, nothing wrong with that, but just telling it like it is. People are going to think your a wannabe. Again, nothing wrong with that. It's up to you.

what are peopple going to think if i ride a:
a- canondale
b- schwinn
c- colnago
d- pinarello
e- gunnar

i need to know before i buy
thanks
insecure guy.

the series 5000 are awesome bikes; light, fast, stable and comfortable. but they fit different. a long and low fit. long top tubes and short headtubes. itmay be dificult to translate your current bitke numbers to the treks.
if you are used to a bike with tall, short italian like geometry (ok, it's vague. i'm generalizing bla bal bla) you may not like the trek. seriously. ride it before.. but if you are drooling and must buy yourself a present at christmas time, then what do i know?

Thanks for the input about the frame and material. The Colker1's input reminded me to just measure up mine and see how it matches with the OCLV. I know I like the material in general (I own a Y-Foil as well), so measuring everything up will help.

Very good point on both counts, colker1. Just because someone likes the OCLV frames doesn't mean they are following Lance blindly, just hoping to "be like him". You know, these anti-Lance bashers make me sick already. It is so trendy to hate Lance now, that you guys aren't making a statement anymore - you are just following the crowd, exactly what you were hoping no one would realize. Sadly, you do just what you protest to hate so much...

It's interesting all you do is mock others, but never reveal what exactly you ride. Or do you ride? Sniffing around this cycling forum (and likely many others) looking for people to call down as being exactly what you are afraid of being seems to be a full time job for you (is that too complicated? It means you accuse others of being posers because you feel you are a poser, and if you accuse others of that, you must not be one - sorta like yelling "witch!" and pointing at someone in the crowd).

I think your mother is calling you up, your Kraft dinner is ready...

It's interesting all you do is mock others, but never reveal what exactly you ride. Or do you ride? ...

Larry- don’t waste your time. Remember, on the internet everyone is a bully. Guys like Ricky2 just seem to need to ***** to others to feel better about theirselves. Don’t feed the troll. Luckily others have been providing some very good objective and subjective feedback to help you to try your best to make an informed decision. Don't let Ricky2 get in the way of that.

I think there are in fact some folks who buy Trek due to the recognition brought on by LA. Is that bad? No, it’s just some great marketing by Trek. Does it mean everyone who buys a Trek is a Lance wannabe? No not by any reasonable conclusion. Does it mean there are some people wearing the Trek kit, but perhaps not really understanding the sport/recreation of riding- sure. Bottom line - who cares! I learned long ago, and had it reinforced on the road, on this forum and elsewhere- what a guy like Ricky 2 thinks, types or says is not worth a ****. The only thing that counts is what works for you- its your money, your time, your life. As I said earlier- if the 5000 floats your boat- then pull the trigger, don't ever get buyers remorse- just ride and enjoy. If you have doubts, do more research, ride more bikes (maybe gas up the car for trip to that LBS…)

Just don’t base those doubts on what some internet fool like Ricky2 (or even me) has to say.

Well, the answer to each question would be.
a- canondale- you're a yuppie. Probably drinks frappucinos at Starbucks daily.
b- schwinn- proabably safe with this choice. used to be the uncool brand, but not anymore.
c- colnago- pretends to speak with an Italian accent and likes style over function
d- pinarello- you have as much money as the colnago man, but prefer more independence
e- gunnar- probably came to cycling from the MTN crowd

Your list has poser and insecure written all over it, except maybe for choices b and e. Keep adding some more frames to the list. You might get it right eventually. But right now, b is your best choice.


i thought people like you were urban legend but boy was i wrong! you give the tag "fashion victim" a whole new scope! bwa ha ha ha!!!

Mr. Moab, well put. I normally don't give morons like that the time of day, but I had a minute or two to kill, so just responded for my own amusement. And yes, some people have given me some very valuable input, which I appreciate. I've been riding my own brand of Ti frame for 5 years now, and so I am a little out of touch with other road frames of late.

colker1, well put as well. I especially love the ending laughter - I assume that is paying homage to Arnold, right?

Mr. Moab, well put. I normally don't give morons like that the time of day, but I had a minute or two to kill, so just responded for my own amusement. And yes, some people have given me some very valuable input, which I appreciate. I've been riding my own brand of Ti frame for 5 years now, and so I am a little out of touch with other road frames of late.

colker1, well put as well. I especially love the ending laughter - I assume that is paying homage to Arnold, right?


ride a bike that fits.......I guess that makes me a some kind of freak. Yeah, thats it. :o

i thought people like you were urban legend but boy was i wrong! you give the tag "fashion victim" a whole new scope! bwa ha ha ha!!!


I'm glad you found some amusement in that. Geez! Some people can't take a joke! :rolleyes:

It's interesting all you do is mock others, but never reveal what exactly you ride. Or do you ride? Sniffing around this cycling forum (and likely many others) looking for people to call down as being exactly what you are afraid of being seems to be a full time job for you (is that too complicated? It means you accuse others of being posers because you feel you are a poser, and if you accuse others of that, you must not be one - sorta like yelling "witch!" and pointing at someone in the crowd).

I think your mother is calling you up, your Kraft dinner is ready...


My mother is dead, f-ing jerkwad putz. :mad:

I'm glad you found some amusement in that. Geez! Some people can't take a joke! :rolleyes:
Excuse me, you are telling other people they can't take a joke, and you just finished calling me a "f-ing jerkwad putz"?! Grow up, Ricky. I thought you were mildly amusing (if nothing else, a good example of what people should NOT aspire to, an elitist wanna-be), but now you are just showing your immaturity. The others were right - I guess idiots like you do troll around these boards looking for people to insult.

Tell ya what - you haven't shown any ability to give anything other than insults - how about you just avoid any threads I start here. I don't want your input, I'm sure others don't want your input either - not if you are just going to insult people. If you have anything useful, fine - otherwise, shut up.

Excuse me, you are telling other people they can't take a joke, and you just finished calling me a "f-ing jerkwad putz"?!


Yeah, because what I wrote was in humor. What you wrote was in bad taste about my mother who passed away tragically and its not the thing you joke about during the holidays. So, for that YOU are a putz! You crossed the line buddy. :mad:

Yeah, because what I wrote was in humor. What you wrote was in bad taste about my mother who passed away tragically and its not the thing you joke about during the holidays. So, for that YOU are a putz! You crossed the line buddy. :mad:
Now you are taking this a little far...someone says something mildly insulting (not swearing, mind you, that seems to be your domain) that has NOTHING TO DO WITH YOUR MOTHER (capitalized to emphasize - I can't believe I have to explain this to you), NOTHING TO DO WITH THE PASSING OF YOUR MOTHER, nothing whatsoever about any of this, and all of a sudden you make it out to be some big insult to the memory of your mother?! Don't you think that's a bit of a stretch? Again, nothing was said insulting about your mother (it was only insulting you - making fun of how you are probably some pre-pubescent cheese-eating junior high school punk), NOTHING. Don't try to make this out to be something it isn't, Ricky - this was not about your mother at all, and you know that.

Topping it off with "during the holidays" is a nice touch too, Ricky - you feel free to insult at will, make stupid snide comments to various people in all kinds of posts (looking at your recent posts, the vast majority of your posts are useless insults and/or commentary, very rarely do you say anything of substance) and you have the audacity to claim someone else crossed the line? Please, give me a break.

Now you are taking this a little far...someone says something mildly insulting (not swearing, mind you, that seems to be your domain) that has NOTHING TO DO WITH YOUR MOTHER (capitalized to emphasize - I can't believe I have to explain this to you), NOTHING TO DO WITH THE PASSING OF YOUR MOTHER, nothing whatsoever about any of this, and all of a sudden you make it out to be some big insult to the memory of your mother?! Don't you think that's a bit of a stretch? Again, nothing was said insulting about your mother (it was only insulting you - making fun of how you are probably some pre-pubescent cheese-eating junior high school punk), NOTHING. Don't try to make this out to be something it isn't, Ricky - this was not about your mother at all, and you know that.

Topping it off with "during the holidays" is a nice touch too, Ricky - you feel free to insult at will, make stupid snide comments to various people in all kinds of posts (looking at your recent posts, the vast majority of your posts are useless insults and/or commentary, very rarely do you say anything of substance) and you have the audacity to claim someone else crossed the line? Please, give me a break.



You crossed the line. My comments were made in jest certainly not intended to insult you. However, you even claim yourself that you DID intend to insult me, but not my deceased mother. IF that's the case, then leave my mother out of it.

You can cry foul all you want, but you completely crossed the line. Even if you didn't ackowledge it, the fact that you justify doing it is all the more worse. It's the holidays. I can't change that. I can't change ALOT of things. Any way you look at it...Truly uncalled for and unjustifiable. Period. :mad:

You crossed the line. My comments were made in jest certainly not intended to insult you. However, you even claim yourself that you DID intend to insult me, but not my deceased mother. IF that's the case, then leave my mother out of it.

You can cry foul all you want, but you completely crossed the line. Even if you didn't ackowledge it, the fact that you justify doing it is all the more worse. It's the holidays. I can't change that. I can't change ALOT of things. Any way you look at it...Truly uncalled for and unjustifiable. Period. :mad:

Tough crap, Troll. I'm sorry about your mom. The above poster didn't know. So grow up a bit and let that skin grow thicker. Till then, you're on the ignore list.

what are peopple going to think if i ride a:
a- canondale
b- schwinn
c- colnago
d- pinarello
e- gunnar

i need to know before i buy
thanks
insecure guy.

This is a great post... I can't tell exactly what combination it is of honest question and insightful commentary on cycling, but it's great either way. Cycling has more than its share of vanity, insecurity, and posers, huh? I know I'm somewhat guilty. Sometimes I feel like my new Madone is an albatross around my neck.

Alex

All right- this has gone way too far. To the posters in this thread- when you get a user acting inappropriately, please use the report bad post feature (its the [!] button) so that we can take care of it. Flaming back only feeds their behavior, and causes threads to spiral out of control.

I tried deleting some posts, but I think this thread is done at this point.

Ricky2 you have a PM. Please review it.