High-Performance Composites - March 2005

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At the top and still climbing

Trek Bicycles\' OCLV manufacturing method shortens cycle times and optimizes compaction in molded carbon fiber-bike frame components.

By the time champion cyclist Lance Armstrong won his sixth Tour de France last year -- the world's most grueling bicycle race -- international prestige had long come to stay for the Waterloo, Wis. bike manufacturer that built the superlightweight OCLV Carbon bikes he has ridden to victory. Now the world's largest specialty bike retailer, Trek Bicycles employs 1,500 people in Waterloo, which serves 2,000 stores in the U.S. alone and 4,000 dealers worldwide, in 65 countries. Trek offers standard models in seven sizes, 50 cm to 62 cm (19.7 inches to 24.4 inches), as measured from the center of the crank axle to the top of the seat tube, plus a woman-specific design (WSD) size range, all featuring carbon composite frames. Prices range from $2,199 (USD) for the OCLV 120 5,000 road bike to $7,700 for the new OCLV 55 Madone SSL. Read More ...

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