PRICE: R216 000
GET IT NOW: trekbikes.com

With Trek’s Project One programme, creating a dream bike is a cinch; but pitch up with a limited-edition model like the Madone Chasing Aces from team rider John Degenkolb, and there won’t be many other bikes like yours on the Sunday ride.

Built off the back of the Project One Café Racer Domane used for the Spring Classics, the Chasing Aces detail is evident throughout the bike’s paintjob, and was inspired by Degenkolb’s café racer motorbike. Red and silver pinstriping blends into the ace logos throughout, with flashes of red in key areas on the matte black finish. The silver on the graphics is given a slight brushed-alloy look.

There won’t be many other bikes like yours on the Sunday ride…

Like the Venge, the Madone takes full aerodynamic advantage by routing all gear and brake cables through its OCLV carbon frame, while a port is built into the downtube to access the Di2 junction box.

The IsoSpeed decoupler adds compliance and contributes to a smoother ride, on an otherwise aero bike that’s made for hard and fast racing. Aero flaps on the fork crown above the brake add to aero efficiency, as well being something of a talking point.

Dura Ace Di2 keeps shifting consistent, while the chassis rolls on Bontrager Aeolus deep-section carbon wheels.

Spec highlights: IsoSpeed decoupler, Di2 Dura Ace, Bontrager Aeolus carbon wheels.

Bottom Line: It’s a whack of cash for a bike, even a dream bike. But it’s a real superbike, full of tech and unique customisation.

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