6.15.2011

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
GChainstay length41 cm
DEffective top tube48 cm
Frame stack48.1 cm
CHead angle70
BHead tube length13 cm
HOffset5 cm
LFrame reach35.5 cm
ASeat tube angle75.5 cm
Seat height maximum65.5 cm
Seat height minimum55.5 cm
QSeat tube38.8 cm
KStandover65.4 cm
ITrail6.2 cm
JWheelbase97.1 cm
Weight8.6 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

12 comments:

  1. Be careful, with all these posts about biking you're going to have to start a new Biking Green Girl blog! :-)

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  2. Nice bike! The lightness factor is critical for commuters. I got a 40oz Speedfil for my bike, which fits in the frame nicely. It is expensive but easy to fill. If you do a search for hydration systems you should be able to find something that works for you. I look forward to reading about your touring adventures!

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  3. Great detailed post. Looks like you found your perfect bike. After reading your post I really want to try riding more.

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  4. So great you found a bike that works for you!

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  5. ok, most of that is gibberish to me (a non bike girl) but if youre happy then i'm happy :)

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  6. Lexa is so cute. Many, happy miles to both of you.

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  7. Hi Twinsie Bike Girl...loving that you love your bike so much! Spend 100 miles on it and you may not so much ;). My friend hasa water bottle holder in the front of her bike and another friend has one on the back - just in case you didn't want to carry a Camelbak type thing. Now bring that thing out to CO and let's go for a ride!! :)

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  8. You make biking sound so appealing. I'm so glad you have found the bike for you.
    Have a lovely evening!

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  9. Looks freaking awesome.
    Hugely. Jealous.
    Love it!

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  10. I love Lexa! And it is so awesome you're so tiny =) If I ever meet you Ill have to get a picture with you someday so I can feel tall =)

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  11. Did you only try the Lexa standard (triple) or did you also try the compact. If you did which one you liked more and do they both weight the same.
    Thanks

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    Replies
    1. Elizabeth, I was not able to try the bike before my purchase so this is the only bike I've ridden. It's the compact - only 2 rings in front. I don't believe you can fit 3 rings on a frame this small.

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