Fit/Durability
With my height (5’9”), the 17.5-inch frame fit me perfect, but I have a fairly average women’s build: long femurs, short torso, narrow shoulders. Because the top tube measures 23.7″, I might eventually swap out for a slightly smaller stem, such as a 70mm. That would still feel like a race-fit, but would be better for my short torso (like most women), and benefit my steering.
A few other changes I would make to this bike would be to modify the weight and stiffness. I would love to swap out the Shimano cranks with an XX or XO 2×10 drivetrain. I would also switch out the wheelset for something a bit lighter and stiffer, such as the Easton Havens or the Stans Archs. Also, I would throw on a carbon seat post for an even smoother ride.
The Superfly could be enjoyed by a range of cyclists, from an avid racer looking for a fun and light race bike, to someone just looking for a great carbon 29er in a lower price range. Also, with this bike’s geometry, it is very confidence inspiring, and would be great for a beginner learning how to ride technical trails. Gravity riders will want to look elsewhere—the Superfly isn’t really made to tear through boulder fields and rocky singletrack.
After riding the Superfly for a few hundred miles, I have to say that I am impressed with its durability. Compared to a few other carbon frames that I have owned, the paint on the down tube and under the bottom bracket seems to be holding up almost perfectly. Also, the integrated rubber plate on the down tube and rear triangle protects the frame from rocks and chain slap.
In 2011, Trek beefed up the diameter of the frame around the down tube and bottom bracket, and after miles of abuse, I see no signs of cracking. Since getting the bike, I have noticed the occasional creak (and have read some other reviews noting the same thing), but I don’t think it’s a problem. In any case, Trek’s lifetime warranty will cover a cracked carbon frame, provided it’s from normal wear and tear; is not crash-induced; and you’re the original owner of the bike.
Bottom Line:
Overall, I have been impressed with the Supefly. I ended up riding it much more that my other ride, and am very happy with my impulse decision. If I would have known that I was going to enjoy a hardtail 29er for my everyday bike, however, I would have stepped up and purchased the Superfly Elite, which comes with a slightly better build (Shimano XT and Bontragers Race X Lite) that makes the bike lighter and stiffer. Over time, though, I hope to achieve a similar result by changing out some of those Bontrager parts I mentioned earlier.
With its weight, geometry, and stiffness, the Superfly is a well-rounded and amazingly enjoyable ride.