Our review of the 2014 Trek Madone 5.2 H2 Compact
- Price: $3,550
- Frame: 500 Series OCLV Carbon
- Gear: 2×11
- Tires: 700x23c
What we like about it: Sturdy frame and light tires keep the ride stable and comfortable. The aerodynamic setup provides a strong boost for faster speeds.
What don’t we like about it: The simple color design looks too homogeneous.
Rating (4.6/5)
Introduction
Whether it’s on flat roads or city streets, the fact is we all want a light and portable road bike. This 2014 Trek Madone 5.2 H2 Compact bike has the first patented 500 series OCLV carbon frame, a slim 700 x 23c Bontrager R3, Bontrager Speed Limit integrated braking, and a wide Shimano Ultegra 2×11 drivetrain, we were pleasantly surprised by the bike’s performance on the road.
After a 2 month long review, this bike accompanied us through the transition from the end of summer to the beginning of fall, appreciating the charm of the changing seasons.
It accompanied me on my commute to the gym, not only to feel the bike’s sturdy bodywork but also to appreciate its outstanding performance in commuting and fitness. Yes, with the wide range of 2×11 shift options and swift road speed, one really wouldn’t notice that it’s a 2014 bike.
Below we analysis the 2014 Trek Madone 5.2 H2 Compact for road riding, recreational riding, key features, components and specifications, and other versions.
If you want to know more about out-of-print bikes, please stay tuned to us.
Learn More: With Unlimited Energy Like a Goat – Trek Madone 3.1 WSD Review
Road Riding
Generally, in addition to our pedaling efficiency in road cycling, there is also one of the factors that affect our travel speed, which is air resistance. So ordinary road bicycles in the face of air resistance generated by riding, experienced riders will achieve speed by leaning over or wearing a helmet with a drag reduction function.
However, this Madone 5.2 H2 Compact aero bike has an aerodynamic handlebar with the Bontrager Race Lite Aero, a Madone KVF full carbon fork, and a wide 2×11 drivetrain. Even though it’s a very old version, it can still compete with your latest bike in terms of road speed.
We had a hard time finding this well-kept 2014 Trek Madone 5.2 H2 Compact (sincere thanks to the provider here). With the provider’s permission, we chose a nearby flat road for the race.
My partner Eve raced me on a Trek Domane AL 3 Disc and I have to say that the Domane AL 3 Disc is a great bike for the money. Its 2×9 speed option is less than the Madone 5.2 H2 Compact from a long time ago. Although I was impressed with the Domane AL 3 Disc, I still had confidence in the Madone 5.2 H2 Compact in the middle of this race.
The results did not disappoint me. The bike I rode, with its aerodynamic geometry, lightweight 500 series OCLV carbon frame, and Variable Radius Compact Flare (VR-CF) handlebar design, left Eve far behind. Yes, you read that right.
The Madone 5.2 H2 Compact beats the new Trek Domane AL 3 Disc. The on-road riding of this bike is outstanding.
Leisure Riding
For a more thorough review of this bike, I used the Madone 5.2 H2 Compact for both my regular commute and workout. on my workout rides, its 2×11 shifting allowed me to do a variety of shifting rides.
I have to say though that because the bike is really old enough, it is slightly dry and makes some noise when shifting. But I listened to the provider for some simple maintenance and those conditions were much better.
In addition, its braking performance made me stare while riding even when I encountered slippery ground (after all, it’s almost always disc brakes these days).
Because it is a Bontrager Speed Limit integrated brake, I was not optimistic at first. The point is that I am a fan of hydraulic disc brakes. But with its ultra-light caliper brakes and excellent leverage, I was able to slow down and stop easily and comfortably.
During my daily fitness rides, I pass over some rough terrain. I didn’t want to put this senior bike through such conditions, but the provider confidently said “go ahead and test it, it will only make you fall in love with it”.
Indeed, the Madone 5.2 H2 Compact made me fall in love with it. The carbon frame and KVF fork reduce drag while also having a certain amount of shock absorption. It excels in my fitness rides.
Even though it is an older bike, it doesn’t necessarily perform worse than some of the younger and more popular bikes nowadays.
Main Features
Frame
When the 2014 Trek Madone 5.2 H2 Compact first appeared in front of my eyes, I couldn’t help but admire “what a tight old dude”. Despite being well maintained, I have to say that the years have left some marks on it.
Although this is a Madone 5.2 H2 Compact in almost black paint, the overall look is retro and calm (maybe not so much in line with the current fashion). In addition, it’s a 500 series OCLV carbon frame, so it’s light overall.
And the unimaginable stiffness and comfort will be very beneficial when you go on long rides. Also, its internal alignment makes the whole body look neat and clean, which will make it very easy to clean your bike.
The bike’s thoughtful design doesn’t stop there, as its two water bottle mounting holes are designed to allow you to take plenty of water with you on long trips.
In addition, I looked at the bike very closely and noticed that the Kamm Virtual Foil top tube has some subtle curved leading edges. The head tube, rear fork, and fork are also KVF shaped, which allows for clean lines and cuts drag in the face of air resistance for faster speeds.
In this “old buddy”, we fully appreciate Trek’s usual thoughtfulness. In addition to its excellent speed, this road bike is also warm and comfortable.
Components and Specifications
Shimano Ultegra 2×11 Drivetrain
I don’t know what you guys are looking for in a drivetrain. But being the versatile person that I am, I always want more speed options. Although I didn’t ask for much from this bike, I couldn’t contain my excitement when I saw the 2×11 range of this “old boy”.
I understand that many 2× or 3× drives may have more speed options. But at the same time, they add extra weight to the drivetrain, and because of this there have been mixed reviews. So I was a little worried that the 2×11 drivetrain of the “old boy” would have the same shortcomings.
But Shimano Ultegra told me not to worry, Shimano Ultegra can achieve very little weight without sacrificing stiffness. And with the various gear combinations, I can adjust my gear performance in my actual riding, and I can achieve a freer speed in my riding.
Not only that, the Shimano Ultegra STI shifter is further improved in this aspect of the ergonomic structure. Both hands can easily and conveniently trigger from the grip sleeve to get a more comfortable feel, and the alignment is very clean and crisp.
I’ve said a lot about this “old buddy” (I’m interested in it), but I’d like to mention one thing. I have very different hand sizes from the provider, but I didn’t expect the handle to be finely tuned. It can also adapt to my hands, for which I have to admire the cleverness of the designer.
Bontrager Speed Limit Integrated Braking
Anyone who has read my reviews will probably know that I’m never shy about using any nice words for hydraulic disc brakes, not to mention the trend that hydraulic disc brakes are becoming more and more popular these days.
So when I saw the Bontrager Speed Limit integrated brakes on the 2014 Trek Madone 5.2 H2 Compact, I was sweating it out. In my eyes, these caliper brakes have many disadvantages, such as heavy weight and insufficient braking power. But I didn’t expect this “old boy” to refresh my original concept with its powerful brakes.
First of all the brake is not that heavy and it is compatible with Shimano, SRAM and Campagnolo pull ratios. Not only that, but the excellent lever design allows me to brake with less force.
Secondly, when I was braking while riding on a slippery surface, its Bontrager Speed Limit integrated brakes steadily listened to my instructions. Its responsive and relatively soft experience forced me to change my prejudice about caliper brakes.
Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite Road Tire
I was confident about the speed of the Madone 5.2 H2 Compact when we saw its slim and aggressive Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite road tire. And it didn’t disappoint me.
The light tread design, with TR-Speed compound and improved Hard-Case Lite, puncture protection, not only makes the tire roll faster, but it has more traction as well. The tread also has great wear resistance, which increases its tire life.
Also, the low rolling resistance and excellent cornering grip have a more perfect fit and give me a lot of confidence in my actual riding.
Other Versions Of Trek Madone
In this review, we have a detailed review of the old buddy, the 2014 Trek Madone 5.2 H2 Compact with its carbon frame, wide 2×11 drivetrain, brakes, tires, and other components.
This is a bike from a long time ago, and it’s really a bit difficult to find a more intact trace of it now, so thanks again to the provider here. But we did find a new version of the Trek Madone, which costs $4,729.99, has a bright red paint job, follows the 2014 Trek Madone 5.2 H2 Compact 2×11 drivetrain range, and weighs 19.27 Ibs. It looks a little stout, but is light enough, and has advanced disc brakes.
Yes, the new version of the Madone SL 6, is a tempting enough piece of cake. Whether you want more speed range or advanced disc braking, the new version of the Trek Madone is available.
If you want to know more about the Madone SL 6 review, please stay tuned to us.
What we like about it?
- A lightweight and sturdy carbon frame makes your riding trip more enjoyable.
- The road runner who never gives up.
- High wear-resistant tires make you love it more.
- Wide speed selection for pleasant speed adjustment.
- The braking power of caliper brakes will amaze you.
What don’t we like about it?
- Long-ago versions are hard to find with better maintenance.
- Some people think caliper brakes are not advanced enough.
FAQs
- What is the material of the 2014 Trek Madone 5.2 H2 Compact?
The 2014 Trek Madone 5.2 H2 Compact is made of 500 Series OCLV Carbon.
- What is the tire size of the 2014 Trek Madone 5.2 H2 Compact?
The tire size for the 2014 Trek Madone 5.2 H2 Compact is 700 x 23c.
- What is the brake on the 2014 Trek Madone 5.2 H2 Compact?
The brakes on the 2014 Trek Madone 5.2 H2 Compact are Bontrager Speed Limit integrated brakes.
Comparison Table
| BIKE | PRICE | BRAKES | TIRES | GEAR | Click view |
| CUBE AGREE C:62 RACE | $3570 | Shimano Ultegra BR-R8170 hydraulic disc brake | 700×28c | 2×12 | Click View |
| Cannondale SystemSix Carbon Ultegra | $4750 | Shimano Ultegra hydraulic disc brakes | 700×23c | 2×11 | Click View |
| Canyon Aeroad CF SL 7 WMN Disc | $3999 | Shimano RT70 hydraulic disc brakes | 700×25c | 2×11 | Click View |
| Giant Propel Advanced Disc 1 | $4980 | Shimano Ultegra hydraulic disc brakes | 700x25c | 2×11 | Click View |
Trek Madone 5.2 H2 Compact vs CUBE AGREE C:62 RACE
With the advancement of technology, every aspect of people’s lives is changing day by day, and bikes are no exception. The first one we saw was the CUBE AGREE C:62 RACE, which has a richer speed variation (2×12). The brakes are also Shimano Ultegra BR-R8170 hydraulic disc brakes, and I have to say that it is excellent in every aspect.
Still, I would say that its 28c wire bead tires are not as great as I thought they would be in real-world riding. For that high of a price, I wish it could have had the vacuum tire setup.
If there was a new 2014 Trek Madone 5.2 H2 Compact, I think it would probably be even better than this CUBE AGREE C:62 RACE. After all, it has performed so well in my actual reviews to this day.
Learn more : Is CUBE NUROAD C:62 PRO Worth Buying? [CUBE NUROAD C:62 PRO Review]
Trek Madone 5.2 H2 Compact vs Cannondale SystemSix Carbon Ultegra
As we have seen the Cannondale SystemSix Carbon Ultegra is a frame made of BallisTec carbon, so it is light (17.6Ibs). Its drivetrain is almost the same as the 2014 Trek Madone 5.2 H2 Compact, but because of the lighter frame and better fitment components. So the Madone 5.2 H2 Compact is slightly hindered in terms of mph. But I think Trek’s patented OCLV carbon will be stronger in terms of impact resistance and longevity.
But it must also be said in all honesty that the Cannondale SystemSix Carbon Ultegra’s Shimano Ultegra hydraulic disc brakes will have a softer feel when braking. Of course, if we’re talking about braking power, I don’t think the difference is that significant. But the Cannondale SystemSix Carbon Ultegra at $4750 would make me think more about it.
Learn more : Is Cannondale SystemSix Hi-MOD Ultegra Di2 A Good Bike?[Cannondale SystemSix Hi-MOD Ultegra Di2 Review]
Trek Madone 5.2 H2 Compact vs Canyon Aeroad CF SL 7 WMN Disc
The bright and fresh-Non Mint paint color drew me to it right away. I think this color will give me a sense of coolness in this heat nowadays, and it managed to attract me with its color. In addition, the Canyon Aeroad CF SL 7 WMN Disc is a bike with a carbon frame, which makes it lighter in weight. But at this point the 2014 Trek Madone 5.2 H2 Compact has a definite chance of outperforming the Canyon Aeroad CF SL 7 WMN Disc in my opinion. Because I think the Madone 5.2 H2 Compact’s OCLV carbon will be better in terms of weight and impact resistance.
In addition, the Canyon Aeroad CF SL 7 WMN Disc’s hydraulic disc brakes can deliver its braking power quickly and securely even on slippery surfaces. Of course, the Bontrager Speed Limit integrated brakes of the “old buddy” Madone 5.2 H2 Compact are not easily defeated on all kinds of surfaces. All in all, I think there is no denying that newer bikes will have newer and upgraded components. But in my opinion, the older Madone 5.2 H2 Compact still has a place among road bikes, even now.
Canyon Aeroad CF SL 7 WMN Disc Review – Turning Air Resistance Against You Into Power
Trek Madone 5.2 H2 Compact vs Giant Propel Advanced Disc 1
I was pleasantly surprised to see that the Giant Propel Advanced Disc 1 comes in three colors, making it more selective with the relatively rich paint colors. The carbon frame gives it a weight of only 18.1 Ibs. In addition, its hydraulic disc brakes are attractive enough to stop the wheels even on slippery surfaces.
If you think the Trek Madone 5.2 H2 Compact is going to give up, it’s not going to happen. The comfortable and durable OCLV carbon frame and the aerodynamic handlebars of the Bontrager Race Lite Aero make it even faster in my actual riding. However, it must be admitted that its caliper brakes are slightly outdated, but that’s because it’s an older version. If you see its newer version, the Madone SL 6, you might be tempted.
The new version of the Madone SL 6 not only has powerful hydraulic brakes but also has a wider speed range. Not only that, but it also weighs only 19.27 lbs and its IsoSpeed decoupler gives enough help in terms of damping. If you are interested in the “old boy” Trek Madone 5.2 H2 Compact, try the Madone SL 6!
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