Fascinating discussion. I’ve owned 2 Treks in my life. A 2022 Emonda SLR and now a 2024 Madone SLR (Gen7). The Emonda rides like a tin can compared to the Gen 7. Really beats you up on longer rides. Same wheels, tires, size (geometry) and saddle too! I assume it has something to do with isoflow but, who knows. A buddy of mine from Flagstaff tests bikes for Trek. He said he thought Trek nailed the layup on the Gen 7 SLR (didn’t recommend the SL). Anyways, he talked more about the layup than Isoflow so, maybe the ride comfort is coming more from that. Who knows? All I know is there isn’t much comparison between the Emonda and Madone G7. One of the few high dollar purchases I feel really ok with. Like I actually made the right decision for once.
Lastly, got to roll around and feel the new “Gen 8 Madonda”. It feels and looks like a compromise. I’m probably wrong but, if the Madone didn’t do well, I’m not sure this will either. For the record, I think Isoflow looks gimmicky as hell and was a large part of the reason I took a while to buy one. That and I our team deal didn’t kick in until relatively recently for me…Even if Isoflow saves XX watts I don’t think there’s enough market out there to buy the gimmicky look. JMO.
edit: there, their, they’re…