Trek Lexa SLX XS (43 cm) Road Bike Review

Trek Lexa SLX XS (43 cm) in Satin Crystal Pearl White/Sparkling Silver/Platinum

After riding Lexa for a few weeks, the Green Girl is ready to review the Trek Lexa SLX XS.

I'm 4'10.5" with a long torso but short arms and legs. The biggest obstacle for me was to find a bike with a low enough standover for me to actually stand over it.

As far as I could tell, the Trek Lexa SLX 43 cm size 65.4 cm standover height was the lowest of any comparable road bike.

The Trek Lexa's women-specific geometry is a thoughtful touch because it's designed for a woman's proportions.

I feel comfortable when I am riding the Trek Lexa. I don't feel like I am straining to pedal.

I did have to rotate the handlebars slightly towards me in order for my hands to fit comfortably around the brakes so I can't really hold the bottom of my handlebars. This has not been an issue - I just keep my hands on top.

Trek Lexa SLX XS handlebars

The smaller handlebar design allows me to easily reach the brake levers with my short arms and small hands.

I initially felt the seat was on the hard side but after doing some research, I discovered a hard seat was preferable for long rides to minimize chafing.

The ride is very smooth and shifting is easy. I feel like I could go really fast because of how well the bike handles.

The bike is light enough for me to carry it effortlessly down and up several flights of stairs each time I take it for a ride at the beach.

The small size can be very convenient at times. I love how I can fit the bike easily in the trunk of my car. When I use the public restrooms on the beach, I am able to roll the bike into the stall with me.

The Green Girl's Trek Lexa SLX

Since the frame is significantly smaller, there's only enough room for a single bottle holder. Since I tend to drink a lot, I am planning on carrying a hydration pack with me on longer rides.

For those interested in purchasing a U-lock, please keep in mind due to the limited space on the frame, you will need to carry it on you in your pack.

I had not anticipated spending so much on a road bike but now that I've made the investment, I am very satisfied with my purchase. I am confident the Trek Lexa will get me to the finish line of my 240 mile bike tour this fall.

Trek Lexa SLX XS (43 cm) Geometry

		Measurement
G	Chainstay length	41 cm
D	Effective top tube	48 cm
	Frame stack	48.1 cm
C	Head angle	70
B	Head tube length	13 cm
H	Offset	5 cm
L	Frame reach	35.5 cm
A	Seat tube angle	75.5 cm
	Seat height maximum	65.5 cm
	Seat height minimum	55.5 cm
Q	Seat tube	38.8 cm
K	Standover	65.4 cm
I	Trail	6.2 cm
J	Wheelbase	97.1 cm
	Weight	8.6 kg

Trek Lexa SLX
Frameset
Frame Alpha Black Aluminum
Fork Bontrager Race, carbon legs, SpeedTrap compatible
Frame fit H3

Wheels
Wheels Bontrager SSR, 650c
Tires Bontrager R1, 650x23c

Drivetrain
Shifters Shimano 105 STI, 10 speed
Front derailleur Shimano 105
Rear derailleur Shimano 105
Crank Shimano R-553 50/34
Cassette Shimano 105 11-28, 10 speed
Pedals n/a

Components Saddle Bontrager Affinity 1 WSD, steel rails
Seatpost Bontrager Carbon, 20mm offset
Handlebar Bontrager Race VR-S, 31.8mm
Stem Bontrager Race Lite, 7 degree, 31.8mm
Headset 1-1/8" integrated, semi-cartridge bearings
Brakeset Tektro R540 brakes w/Shimano 105 STI levers

Accessories
Grips Bontrager gel tape
Extras Fender mounts