‘84 Trek 520 opinions?
10-24-18, 04:55 PM
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‘84 Trek 520 opinions?
I’m looking at one tomorrow and I would like to hear from the hive mind.
The ‘84 is the only year with 45.5cm chain stays before the ‘87, so it’s pre-fastback seat stays.
It’s a Reynolds 501 frame, so it’s a seamed tube set with Mangaloy forks and stays. Which I understand is stouter, due to thicker walls? I would take a guess at .9 .6 .9? Is that correct?
Anyone ever compared it to the 620 or 720?
Or an ‘84 Trek 610, which I own and LOVE the ride of?
Does it have that floaty ride of the Nice Vintage Tourer, riding better than the specs would indicate or is it “just” a very solid touring bike?
The ‘84 is the only year with 45.5cm chain stays before the ‘87, so it’s pre-fastback seat stays.
It’s a Reynolds 501 frame, so it’s a seamed tube set with Mangaloy forks and stays. Which I understand is stouter, due to thicker walls? I would take a guess at .9 .6 .9? Is that correct?
Anyone ever compared it to the 620 or 720?
Or an ‘84 Trek 610, which I own and LOVE the ride of?
Does it have that floaty ride of the Nice Vintage Tourer, riding better than the specs would indicate or is it “just” a very solid touring bike?
10-24-18, 06:18 PM
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I don't have an '84 520 but I have an '86 560. The 560 has more of a racing geometry but it is made of 501. It doesn't feel like my '84 760 which is made of 531c but its still a nice riding and well built frame. I have also had an '84 500 sport touring made of 501. It was also a nice frame.
The one thing to keep in mind, at least on the '84 500, and holds true for the 520 as well, is the wheels did not have stainless spokes and were built with Helicomatic hubs and either Matrix or Rigida rims. I replaced the wheels on both of my 500 series Treks from '84 & '85 when the rear hubs self- destructed. So even if you think you might like the Helicomatics, remember they came in a few different quality levels, and the 500 series Treks of that vintage, came with the cheapest ones.
I still think they are nice bikes, but much nicer with a nice set of wheels. If the price was right, I'd buy it anyway. I'm sure someone with direct experience with the 520 will chime in shortly.
The one thing to keep in mind, at least on the '84 500, and holds true for the 520 as well, is the wheels did not have stainless spokes and were built with Helicomatic hubs and either Matrix or Rigida rims. I replaced the wheels on both of my 500 series Treks from '84 & '85 when the rear hubs self- destructed. So even if you think you might like the Helicomatics, remember they came in a few different quality levels, and the 500 series Treks of that vintage, came with the cheapest ones.
I still think they are nice bikes, but much nicer with a nice set of wheels. If the price was right, I'd buy it anyway. I'm sure someone with direct experience with the 520 will chime in shortly.
10-24-18, 06:52 PM
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I have an ‘86 560 too, it’s 531 
I haven’t been able to bond with that one like my 610 though. I’m finding myself less interested in racing bikes, at least from the mid 80’s and later. I like more utility, and a keeper needs to at LEAST have fender mounts. I should put a link up in the for sale section come to think of it....
But thanks for the heads up on the spokes! I’ve got a set of stainless spoked touring wheels with a 40 count rear waiting for the right build and sounds like this has Some potential.
I haven’t been able to bond with that one like my 610 though. I’m finding myself less interested in racing bikes, at least from the mid 80’s and later. I like more utility, and a keeper needs to at LEAST have fender mounts. I should put a link up in the for sale section come to think of it....
But thanks for the heads up on the spokes! I’ve got a set of stainless spoked touring wheels with a 40 count rear waiting for the right build and sounds like this has Some potential.
10-24-18, 07:15 PM
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There have been discussions about the merits of 501 tubing- it's quality stuff- the "seam" thing is something that kind of hurt Reynolds- by proclaiming the greatness of seamless for 531- anything less is... well, less premium.
I had a Mangaloy/hi-ten Trek 420- I really dug the ride of that bike. If it had 2 bottle cages and cantis I would have kept it- the 520 is a pretty clear step above the 420.
I think you'll find much more similarity to your Zebra- more than your 1000LT. The pre-86 tourers had more of an emphasis on being lightweight and somewhat stiff (hence many people referring to them as "flexy"). The post 90 stuff had the emphasis on stiffness and stability with less of an emphasis on weight (and no one would ever refer to a post 1990 Miyata 1000LT as "flexy.")
I had a Mangaloy/hi-ten Trek 420- I really dug the ride of that bike. If it had 2 bottle cages and cantis I would have kept it- the 520 is a pretty clear step above the 420.
I think you'll find much more similarity to your Zebra- more than your 1000LT. The pre-86 tourers had more of an emphasis on being lightweight and somewhat stiff (hence many people referring to them as "flexy"). The post 90 stuff had the emphasis on stiffness and stability with less of an emphasis on weight (and no one would ever refer to a post 1990 Miyata 1000LT as "flexy.")
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Commence to jigglin’ huh?!?!
"But hey, always love to hear from opinionated amateurs." -says some guy to Mr. Marshall.
Commence to jigglin’ huh?!?!
"But hey, always love to hear from opinionated amateurs." -says some guy to Mr. Marshall.
10-24-18, 07:28 PM
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Those sound like they'd be perfect for the 520, especially if they are built with some nice hubs. The Miyata 610 & 1000 touring bikes, and Centurian Pro Tour, and Panasonic Pro Touring, from around the mid 80's came with similar wheels, 36 / 40 stainless spokes and sealed cartridge bearing hubs. Nicer than what Trek used on their touring bikes, imo.
10-24-18, 07:50 PM
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Those sound like they'd be perfect for the 520, especially if they are built with some nice hubs. The Miyata 610 & 1000 touring bikes, and Centurian Pro Tour, and Panasonic Pro Touring, from around the mid 80's came with similar wheels, 36 / 40 stainless spokes and sealed cartridge bearing hubs. Nicer than what Trek used on their touring bikes, imo.
36 Front 40 rear Spokes with Suzue Small Flange QR Alloy Sealed hubs. Take offs from a Lotus Eclair that was too small.
There have been discussions about the merits of 501 tubing- it's quality stuff- the "seam" thing is something that kind of hurt Reynolds- by proclaiming the greatness of seamless for 531- anything less is... well, less premium.
I had a Mangaloy/hi-ten Trek 420- I really dug the ride of that bike. If it had 2 bottle cages and cantis I would have kept it- the 520 is a pretty clear step above the 420.
It’s funny Mangaloy is seen as less than, isn’t 521 a manga molly steel? I have one bike with a manga fork, a Miyata 710, an ‘85, and it is one of the most comfortable bikes I have. It’s that 60cm with 56cm TT that fits so well. I’m hoping to duplicate that with a 24” oversized tourer.
I think you'll find much more similarity to your Zebra- more than your 1000LT. The pre-86 tourers had more of an emphasis on being lightweight and somewhat stiff (hence many people referring to them as "flexy"). The post 90 stuff had the emphasis on stiffness and stability with less of an emphasis on weight (and no one would ever refer to a post 1990 Miyata 1000LT as "flexy.")
I had a Mangaloy/hi-ten Trek 420- I really dug the ride of that bike. If it had 2 bottle cages and cantis I would have kept it- the 520 is a pretty clear step above the 420.
It’s funny Mangaloy is seen as less than, isn’t 521 a manga molly steel? I have one bike with a manga fork, a Miyata 710, an ‘85, and it is one of the most comfortable bikes I have. It’s that 60cm with 56cm TT that fits so well. I’m hoping to duplicate that with a 24” oversized tourer.
I think you'll find much more similarity to your Zebra- more than your 1000LT. The pre-86 tourers had more of an emphasis on being lightweight and somewhat stiff (hence many people referring to them as "flexy"). The post 90 stuff had the emphasis on stiffness and stability with less of an emphasis on weight (and no one would ever refer to a post 1990 Miyata 1000LT as "flexy.")
Last edited by Chr0m0ly; 10-24-18 at 10:18 PM.
10-24-18, 08:08 PM
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Well, if you decide you'd rather some lighter wheels for a sportier ride and maybe 700c for tire availability, or for whatever reason you don't use those wheels, let me know. I'll buy them from you should you decide to sell them.
Still waiting for someone with some Trek 520 / 620 experience to chime in on the ride characteristics...
Still waiting for someone with some Trek 520 / 620 experience to chime in on the ride characteristics...
10-25-18, 04:30 PM
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Yeah, I’m surprised no ones chimed in with a story yet :-)
10-25-18, 05:39 PM
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10-29-18, 11:31 PM
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Update!
I’m in Florida on honeymoon right now. Mrs. Rule #5 (she’s kept her maiden name) is asleep and I’m not so I figured I’d keep you lit up to date.
On Thursday, the 25th, I rode and purchased the 520. I’m not absolutely sure the large size will work out, but I’m comfortable enough on the bike to see about sizing it to me as a French Fit bike.
Now during the search for a nice Trek tourer I found a 620, also the 24” size, for sale in Pittsburgh. No one’s close enough to facilitate so I sent an email asking about his willingness to ship, but didn’t have high hopes.
Well as soon as I had put the 520 in my van and pulled away I got a phone call. Yup! The 620 owner would be willing to drop it at a LBS for me, and get it to a bike flights!
So long story short...
i have a 520 waiting at my in laws which I’ll pick up on our way back to Chicago, and when I do get back to Chicago there’ll be an ‘84 620 waiting for me to unbox!
So for you folks keeping track at home, these ‘84 Trek tourers will join my 610 from...? 1984.
Weird councidence! So if the 520 doesn’t give that plush ride, the 620, with its .8 .5 .8 top tube should really give that premium ride!
I’m really stoked to find both and at quite reasonable prices. The LBS said the 620 is in real nice shape, so that’s promising.
Been quite a week! Two cool trek tourers, turned forty last Thursday, and oh yeah, got married!
On Thursday, the 25th, I rode and purchased the 520. I’m not absolutely sure the large size will work out, but I’m comfortable enough on the bike to see about sizing it to me as a French Fit bike.
Now during the search for a nice Trek tourer I found a 620, also the 24” size, for sale in Pittsburgh. No one’s close enough to facilitate so I sent an email asking about his willingness to ship, but didn’t have high hopes.
Well as soon as I had put the 520 in my van and pulled away I got a phone call. Yup! The 620 owner would be willing to drop it at a LBS for me, and get it to a bike flights!
So long story short...
i have a 520 waiting at my in laws which I’ll pick up on our way back to Chicago, and when I do get back to Chicago there’ll be an ‘84 620 waiting for me to unbox!
So for you folks keeping track at home, these ‘84 Trek tourers will join my 610 from...? 1984.
Weird councidence! So if the 520 doesn’t give that plush ride, the 620, with its .8 .5 .8 top tube should really give that premium ride!
I’m really stoked to find both and at quite reasonable prices. The LBS said the 620 is in real nice shape, so that’s promising.
Been quite a week! Two cool trek tourers, turned forty last Thursday, and oh yeah, got married!
10-29-18, 11:46 PM
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OP you might as well get the 420 and 720 to complete the royal flush I got an '85 420 in the spring for about a C note and its doing duty as the trainer bike in as found condition. I took it on the road for a 4 miler Coffeeneuring ride yesterday and discovered what I already knew, it needs an overhaul to be properly ridden and evaluated, Despite all my quibbles it hints and being a fun bike to ride. Enjoy your new bikes.
1985 420
I got an '85 420 in the spring for about a C note and its doing duty as the trainer bike in as found condition. I took it on the road for a 4 miler Coffeeneuring ride yesterday and discovered what I already knew, it needs an overhaul to be properly ridden and evaluated, Despite all my quibbles it hints and being a fun bike to ride. Enjoy your new bikes.1985 420
Last edited by ryansu; 10-29-18 at 11:50 PM.
10-30-18, 08:01 AM
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I’ll get a comparison in for sure!
I’m in a tourer gatherering mode right now. My tourers are:
cannondale ST600 1990
cannondale ST500 1985 (frame and parts)
Miyata 1000LT 1991
Miyata 610 1984 (frame and parts)
Zebra Toure de Force 198? (Getting a frame alignment)
Trek 520 1984
Trek 620 1984 “in the post”
I’m curious to stack up the Miyata 1K and the ST600 and see how the VERY solid steel Miyata rides along side the VERY stiff aluminum Cannondale.
Also so wondering how the ‘84 Treks and the ‘84 Miyata 610 compare. Same year and both the middle of the lineup tourers. The Treks spec out a lot better as far as the frame, the Miyata 610 is 2ble butted Chromo triangle and hi-ten fork and stays.
The chrome frame and manganese fork/stays of the 520 in paper should be better, but I want to know for sure.
I’m in a tourer gatherering mode right now. My tourers are:
cannondale ST600 1990
cannondale ST500 1985 (frame and parts)
Miyata 1000LT 1991
Miyata 610 1984 (frame and parts)
Zebra Toure de Force 198? (Getting a frame alignment)
Trek 520 1984
Trek 620 1984 “in the post”
I’m curious to stack up the Miyata 1K and the ST600 and see how the VERY solid steel Miyata rides along side the VERY stiff aluminum Cannondale.
Also so wondering how the ‘84 Treks and the ‘84 Miyata 610 compare. Same year and both the middle of the lineup tourers. The Treks spec out a lot better as far as the frame, the Miyata 610 is 2ble butted Chromo triangle and hi-ten fork and stays.
The chrome frame and manganese fork/stays of the 520 in paper should be better, but I want to know for sure.
10-30-18, 08:49 AM
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OP you might as well get the 420 and 720 to complete the royal flush I got an '85 420 in the spring for about a C note and its doing duty as the trainer bike in as found condition. I took it on the road for a 4 miler Coffeeneuring ride yesterday and discovered what I already knew, it needs an overhaul to be properly ridden and evaluated, Despite all my quibbles it hints and being a fun bike to ride. Enjoy your new bikes.
1985 420
I got an '85 420 in the spring for about a C note and its doing duty as the trainer bike in as found condition. I took it on the road for a 4 miler Coffeeneuring ride yesterday and discovered what I already knew, it needs an overhaul to be properly ridden and evaluated, Despite all my quibbles it hints and being a fun bike to ride. Enjoy your new bikes.1985 420
10-30-18, 09:09 AM
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Those 420’s have the 42.5 chainsatay length right?
I can’t believe it but I’m starting to think chainstay length one of The most important ride quality factors. The longer stay means a bump rocks your butt forward instead of lifting it vertically. It’s like the difference between sitting on an end of a teeter totter or closer to the middle where it doesn’t rise so much.
I can’t believe it but I’m starting to think chainstay length one of The most important ride quality factors. The longer stay means a bump rocks your butt forward instead of lifting it vertically. It’s like the difference between sitting on an end of a teeter totter or closer to the middle where it doesn’t rise so much.
10-30-18, 09:24 AM
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I wish I could speak on the '84, but I'm very fond of my '83 520 also Reynolds 501 however with 43cm stays. It has the flex you'd expect in a 25" frame, but feels very solid.
10-30-18, 09:37 AM
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Those 420’s have the 42.5 chainsatay length right?
I can’t believe it but I’m starting to think chainstay length one of The most important ride quality factors. The longer stay means a bump rocks your butt forward instead of lifting it vertically. It’s like the difference between sitting on an end of a teeter totter or closer to the middle where it doesn’t rise so much.
I can’t believe it but I’m starting to think chainstay length one of The most important ride quality factors. The longer stay means a bump rocks your butt forward instead of lifting it vertically. It’s like the difference between sitting on an end of a teeter totter or closer to the middle where it doesn’t rise so much.
10-30-18, 10:36 AM
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10-30-18, 10:39 AM
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10-30-18, 10:53 AM
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Cursed be my long torso!
I've played around with a couple of different builds, and it has yet to leave me unsatisfied since picking the frameset up from @wrk101
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