The Trek Soho S is a very popular choice for anyone looking for an affordable single-speed commuter bicycle that combines quality features with a low-key but stylish design. I had one a few years ago, which I modified a bit to include road bike drop bars for more hand positions.
Chip came across the post I put up in 2008 detailing these changes and customized his own Soho S in a similar fashion:
“I ride a 2010 Trek Soho S as my daily commuter around Raleigh NC. This weekend I installed some drop bars, Cane Creek cross top levers, and a Cinelli stem after seeing your post. I am loving the setup so far! And best part is I was able to secure all the parts for around $50 locally. I’ve also upgraded to Koolstop Salmon pads (awesome), and also installed some MKS touring pedals. Next up will probably be a new saddle.”
I think it looks great, although I’m probably a bit biased. The drop bars bring out the Trek race bike heritage that is part of the Soho S design, and make it more comfortable for long rides as well as sprinting. Thanks for the pics and write-up, Chip!
Chip here,
Thought it would be fun to revisit this after almost 3 years!
I still own the Trek Soho S as shown in the picture. It is my daily commuter, so I ride it often! It has DEFINITELY changed since your post in Oct 2012. As it stands now, it has:
– Put the flat bars back on the bike (never really fit right)
– Shimano Saint pedals
– Rebuilt rear wheel with Sturmey Archer 2-speed kickback hub (AWESOME, but heavy)
– 42T Blackspire 1/8″ Mono Veloce Track style chainring, 1/8″ SRAM PC1 chain, Sturmey Archer 1/8″ 20T cog
– Sella Italia Q-Bik saddle
– Easton EC90 Full carbon fork and Bontrager carbon post (not yet installed)
The bike’s character has definitely changed. The front fork lightened the bike up quite a bit, as the stock fork was a steel beast. It is much more nimble now. The kick shift hub gives me a climb gear and a flat gear. My only gripe is how heavy the hub is, but it has been bullet proof. Finally, upgrading the entire drive train to higher quality rings/cogs and using a 1/8″ setup really helped….the pedaling effect feels more “direct”…you can feel the power transfer better. I do have quite a bit in the bike now, but I am probably done “modding” it…as it stands it is a pretty awesome commuter.
I’ll be sure to post a picture the next time I have an opportunity to take a cool shot!