Awesome paint job on this TTX. I watched Levi's video on theroaddiaries.com and he mentioned that there were a lot improvements made for this version Trek's TT bike. Can you tell us more about these improvements?

thanks,

JT

Levi points out that we put housing stops in the entry and exit locations so there are bare cables running through the frame rather than cable and housing. This reduces friction in the line and trims back some wieght. We did this modification special to Levi's bike for the Olympics but it may be a feature we incorporate into future TT bike designs. As he mentions, the bike is around 7kg with race wheels and he likes the bike's performance.

Actually Levi mentions that he can't imagine how Trek could make it any better.
What do Trek engineers think about the recent trend to put brake calipers
behind the fork and/or behind the bottom bracket?
Thank you!

One thing they didn't ask is why SRAM and Trek can't seem to put together an Astana team bike (or at least a Madone with Red components) for consumers. I sure hope Trek is going to offer more non-Shimano stock choices for 2009.

MarvinK suggests Trek should offer an Astana team color bike and more models with SRAM spec. Next week is Trek dealer show in Madison, WI. We invite 1000+ dealers from around the world to see 2009 product. All of the 09 spec and colors have long been decided but few of our dealers (or consumers) know what is about to be revealed. But I'll let you in on the fact that there are more bikes spec'd with SRAM in 09 and there is a high-end Madone with Astana colors.

Chris asks about hiding the brakes behind the fork crown and behind the bb on TT bike, in reference to how Trek could improve on the bike Levi is riding. Trek conducted a study recently that revealed no difference in drag, no matter where the rear brake is located. Aesthetically and trend wise, hidden brake calipers are the next big thing but in terms of aerodynamic performance, Trek knows it doesn't matter much on the back of the bike. On the front, however, hidden calipers can make a difference in drag numbers but to maximize the effect the housing must be streamlined as well. Leaving a loop of housing between the bar and caliper isn't the best way to do it (think BH, old Giant and new Giant). The TTX is due for a redesign so keep an eye open over the next 12 months.