Cycling 'e'volution

It's hard to believe, but I've finally gone "e" in the world of cycling. Mind you, it's not the type of commitment that you're probably assuming — so let me explain.

This "e"volution actually took root during my week-long trip last year in Belgium. In a clever bit of marketing, our tour organizer — Trek Travel — provided us with top-of-the-line bikes in which to traverse the cobbled roads and hills of the Flanders region. It was even pointed out — almost like a casual warning — that the two-wheeled steeds might be better than the ones we have at home.

They were right. And, at least for me, the seed was planted for possibly acquiring such a plush pedal pusher at some point down the road. Well, as you might have guessed, the waiting game is over — the future is now. I've just purchased a new bicycle.

TWO FOR ONE ...

Most people are aware of the fact that I already have a basement full of freedom machines. So why another one? I just couldn't get it out of my mind about how much I enjoyed that high-end beauty on my European cycling vacation. However, I knew any transaction would have to include some sort of sacrifice.

My painful solution involved trading in two bikes in a deal with the boys at Rainbow Bicycle in Lewiston, Maine. Gone are my Specialized Crux gravel beast and my Trek 2.3 aluminum road cruiser. And joining the stable? A 2025 Trek Domane SL 6.

The opportunity to possess such a gem is quite thrilling. It is carbon-fiber everything, with a 12-speed Shimano 105 group set, etc., etc., etc. All the bells and whistles any cyclist could imagine. And its color is pretty cool — Marianas Blue, which sparkles in the sunlight.

This now gives me three bicycles in the Trek Domane family, with the other two being a 2017 model and a 2023 version. With similar geometries, and utilizing the identical saddle on all three, the "feel" is familiar and comfortable — especially on long journeys. But my brand-new ride has one big difference, and that's where the "e" comes into play and my love affair with its performance that was aroused in Belgium.

While many might suppose that my Domane is an e-bike, such is not the case. Several of my friends have gone that route, either because of health issues or just plain oldness setting in. My "e"volution actually has to do with the fact that it comes equipped with electronic shifting — a first for me. Boy, what a game changer.

Basically, what it means is that you change gears by simply pushing a lever. It is precise, quick, and quiet. And the best part is no more cable tension issues — it always aligns in the right position on the bicycle's cassette and chainring.

I may never climb aboard any of my other bikes again. That's how sweet it is.

JOINED A CLUB ...

Early in the cycling season I came across an app that has become very useful as I pile up the miles. It's associated with Trek and is known as the Trek Ride Club. And it is available for free.

Downloaded on my phone, it provides statistics on all my rides — time on the bike, average and maximum speeds, elevation gain, and distance ridden. Information is gathered on a daily, weekly, monthly, and yearly basis. Also, all my outings can be saved.

Another good feature includes various challenges created by Trek — with prizes awarded for successful participation. Last weekend I took on a three-day elevation contest, where I needed to reach 10,000 feet. I ended up going on four rides, amassing 137 miles, and coming in with 10,869 feet. I'm also doing an annual distance challenge — striving for 5,000 miles.

All this adds a little fun to my cycling life. Give it a try and stay safe.

My brand-new 2025 Trek Domane SL 6.