I just got a Trek 520 and have taken it on a few rides. Only had it 2 weeks but, already see stone chips on the chainstays. I know it's bound to happen but..... I did get some lizard skins chainstay guards (I think they are neoprene) to put on both stays. I usually only put one on the drivetrain side of my bikes but, since this one is steel, I want to protect it as much as I can.

I'm not too worried about it though because, I have a feeling that I will be powdercoating my frame down the road (many years from now). This bike will be with me forever. I just had a 22 year old steel Trek frame powdercoated recently and it looks brand new..... only set me back 100$ That is the beauty of steel