New race bikes for Astana, Subaru-Gary Fisher

Alberto Contador (Astana) blasted to a second-place finish in the opening individual time trial of this year's Critérium du Dauphiné Libéré aboard what looks to be an all-new Trek aero frame.

We've no official details at this point in time but several details can be gleaned from the images. As Felt, Look and Giant have done, the new Trek features an external steerer tube (or possibly some sort of 'structural' extension) that combines with the head tube to effectively create an aero section deeper than 3:1. Unlike the Giant though the stem isn't situated in line with the level top tube, which sits quite a bit lower.

In addition, the new frame looks to use the same BB90 integrated bottom bracket system as on the Madone. Chain stay size has grown appreciably relative to the current TTX – presumably for stiffer drivetrain response – while the seat stays are sleek and slender for lower drag.

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Most intriguing is the brake setup, which appears to be wholly internal. Just the pads peek out beneath the fork crown and between the widely set blades for an ultra-clean arrangement up front and the rear brake is tucked within the chain stays. Naturally, cabling is fully internal as well.

We'll continue to keep you posted as we collect more information but things are now looking a little more interesting for the upcoming Tour de France.