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Trek Domane SLR 9 review: Can a £13k+ bike ever warrant such a price?

Fewer isospeeds means it's a little less comfortable, but the new domane slr 9 is fast, fun, and ready for an adventure.

Trek Domane SLR 9 leaning against a stone wall

Cyclingnews Verdict

A genuinely excellent dual-natured bike, but at a price that could realistically buy three still-excellent bikes

Easy to use storage compartment with neat & organising tool wrap

Simplified Isospeed vibration damping

38mm tyre clearance

Power meter included

Neat, low-maintenance integrated cockpit

Oh boy is it pricey

I would hope for top-spec tyres at this price

You can trust Cyclingnews Our experts spend countless hours testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

The Trek Domane is not what it once was. 

Cast your mind back to around 2015, when gran fondos - or sportives - were all the rage among keen amateur cyclists. Road bike ranges were easy to comprehend thanks to the distinct three-way category split: lightweight, aero, and endurance. 

The Trek Domane had been in existence for two years at this point, and like the Specialized Roubaix, Cannondale Synapse or Giant Defy, was fast becoming synonymous with the 'endurance road' category. Gravel was still an up-and-coming neo pro, while Allroad was trademarked by Audi. 

The original Domane was fitted with something Trek calls an Isospeed decoupler at the seatpost. Put simply, this allowed the seatpost to flex independently from the frame, retaining pedalling efficiency while adding comfort. For Domane version-two, which launched in 2016, Trek took this concept and ran with it. That Isospeed was given a sliding adjustment to allow riders to tailor their ride quality to their preference, and a second Isospeed was built into the handlebar, decoupling the handlebars from the buzz of the road, adding comfort at the front too. 

Domane version three launched in 2020 and at first glance remained largely the same formula as the last. It retained the adjustable Isospeed and continued to be all about comfort, just with a sharper focus on aerodynamics, but when you look a little closer, I believe it marked a step change in the Domane's character. With tyre clearance ballooning to 38mm, the Domane was among the most progressive endurance road bikes available. 

Some would liken it to what we now know call an 'all-road' bike; the halfway-house between road and gravel, able to handle well-graded gravel paths, but without giving up too much speed on the road. 

For 2023 and version four, Trek has really signalled this change of direction. It has gone back to basics on the Isospeed front, with a reduction in weight and a refinement of the aerodynamics. However, the 38mm clearance remains, the geometry continues to focus on comfort, and the result is a bike that's really tough to categorise on paper. 

Is this still an endurance road bike? Or is it an all-road bike? Is it a do-it-all superbike? In order to find out, I spent a few months with the bike, taking it on all sorts of ride, short and long, smooth and gravel, wet and dry, and even on the indoor trainer. 

While often mentioned, geometry doesn't usually get a section to itself in bike reviews here at Cyclingnews , but it's worth talking about because it's here that I believe we can start to work out exactly where the 2023 Trek Domane fits in among the hundreds of other bikes on the market. 

First up it makes sense to compare it to its long-time competitors, the 'endurance road' crowd, including the Roubaix, Synapse and Defy. 

Geometry charts comparing the Trek Domane SLR 9 to competitors

You can see that of all four bikes, the Domane's reach is the shortest by 10mm, and stack is fairly average. The numbers are pretty close though, so there's nothing to really write home about here. However, with a slacker head angle, a long wheelbase and a high BB drop, it points to offering a slightly more surefooted ride when the going gets rough. 

Does that mean it's now more in line with bikes being marketed as 'all-road' bikes? The 38mm tyre clearance mimics the Fara All Road and the Ridley Grifn, for example, so let's compare to those and find out: 

Geometry charts comparing the Trek Domane SLR 9 to competitors

Here you'll see the head angle is exactly the same as the other three bikes, at 72 degrees, suggesting it does indeed fit better into this 'all-road' category. However, the wheelbase is only 2mm off being the shortest shown. 

As a result, if I'm forced to categorise it, I think it's safest to do so as 'somewhere in between' the typical endurance road sector and what brands are now calling all-road. However, more important than a label is an analysis of how those geometry numbers combine with the design, the build quality, the components, and how the resulting bike actually rides. 

Design & specifications

The 2023 Domane is available in three different guises: Domane SL and Domane SLR, with the carbon fibre level and component specs improving with the additional R. There's also the RSL, which stands for Race Shop Limited, and sits at the same level as the SLR, but in a more race-ready guise with a longer and lower geometry and no downtube storage. 

Trek Domane SLR 9 leaning against a stone wall

The model I'm testing is the Domane SLR 9, with a full serving of top-tier components and a top-tier price to boot: £13,400.00 / $13,199.99 / €14,499.00. 

There's no getting around it, that's an enormous amount of money. It's almost unforgivable. It's impossible to ignore. And it's part of the reason I've written 800 words before even telling you which version of the Domane I'm reviewing. It's £4,900 more than the equivalent-spec Giant Defy. It's £4,400 more than a Cannondale Synapse Dura-Ace, and while the S-Works Roubaix is closer, it's still £400 more expensive than that. 

However, it's worth noting that there are cheaper versions available, and many of the SLR 9's standout features translate right down to the cheapest Domane SL 5 at £3,400.00 / $3,499.99 / €3,749.00. As I proceed through the rest of this review, I will do my best to serve those who are considering this very bike, while also highlighting the features that trickle down to the more affordable models.

Trek Domane SLR 9 leaning against a stone wall

The Domane SLR 9 on test is fitted with Sram's top-tier Red eTap groupset, complete with the integrated power meter (the infuriating one with the power meter integrated into the chainrings), Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37 wheels, Bontrager Verse Short Pro carbon-railed saddle and Bontrager Pro IsoCore bars. The only area where the spec falls short of expectation at this price point is the Bontrager R3 tyres. They're good all-rounders, but the more supple R4 would probably have been more in line. 

My size 58cm weighs in at 7.9kg. Given that includes pedals, a bottle cage and the tool roll inside the down tube storage, this is impressive given Trek quotes 7.8kg for a 56cm without all of the above. This model is available in five stock colours, but dozens of colourways are available throughout the range, and Trek also has Project One, which allows you to choose from thousands of combinations. This particular test bike is finished in a matte green colour that Trek calls juniper, my experience with Trek's paint is usually positive, but on this model, the paint chipped quite easily when my front light knocked against it on one ride. 

Trek Domane SLR 9 leaning against a stone wall

The 2023 Trek Domane SLR is upgraded to Trek's top-tier OCLV 800 carbon (SL uses the cheaper, less-refined OCLV 500). The frame has retained a similar silhouette to before, but Trek has simplified things massively with regard to the Isospeed decouplers. The front Isospeed has been removed entirely, while the rear is no longer adjustable, as it was before. For gen 4, all models (Domane SLR, RSL, and the cheaper SL) get the same Isospeed setup. 

The frame's tubes see a slight refinement of their aerodynamic profiling, with the head tube being deep in shape with a truncated rear edge, and a slight D-shape to the seatpost too. Trek is certainly not the first to use a D-shaped post, and while Trek itself doesn't tie any comfort claims directly to it, the shape has been widely adopted by other brands, with most claiming comfort gains and mildly improved aerodynamics. 

Trek Domane SLR 9 leaning against a stone wall

Another departure from the prior Domane SLR is the removal of the protruding seat tube, so now the post enters the frame where you'd usually expect it to, at the top tube junction, in front of which is a magnetic cap that hides the Isospeed and the seatpost clamp. 

The cockpit too is considerate of airflow, but in a way that won't waste a day whenever you need to adjust your spacers or swap your stem or handlebars. The brake hoses run beneath the bar tape – rather than inside the bars – and under the stem into a scoop-shaped adaptor that fits in front of the proprietary Bontrager RCS Pro stem. Beneath this, oval spacers (splittable, thank heavens) allow cables to run into the frame. This is true for all models in the range.

Trek Domane SLR 9 leaning against a stone wall

Like many bikes with internal cable routing, the brake hoses and/or cables do thread through the bearing cover and the bearings, so any eventual headset replacement will require a little extra work than the previous Domane, which ran cables into a separate port on the top tube behind the stem.

The down tube of the frame retains the door for in-frame storage. Inside, Trek supplies a tool roll, which is big enough to house a couple of tubes, levers, Co2 canisters or any of the best mini pumps . The door doesn't hinge as you'd expect. Instead, it has a latch to lock it into place, and comes away entirely when opened. Both the Domane SLR and SL models get this feature, but the racy RSL eschews it to save weight. 

One bottle cage fits onto the outside of the door, another can be fitted to the seat tube, and a third can be fitted to the underside of the down tube. There are also bolts on the top tube behind the stem for a top tube bag. The SL and SLR frames are complete with mounts for full-length mudguards too. 

Performance

It's a bit of a cliche to say that you can judge the quality of a bike right from the first pedal stroke, but the Domane SLR is as close as I've come to that very feeling. The high spec, top-level carbon and lightweight platform combined to give the bike a sense of urgency and immediacy. Of course, there was a lot more analysis still to be done, but as far as first impressions go, this was excellent. 

Throughout the next few rides, though, I couldn't help but feel underwhelmed by the comfort it offered. A slight caveat here is that I didn't get on with the saddle, and things did improve a little after swapping, but the uber-damped ride quality is no longer what you get from the Domane. That's not to say I didn't enjoy the ride, it's just not the Rolls Royce ride I expected, and almost certainly is a result of the simplified Isospeed setup. 

Trek Domane SLR 9 leaning against a stone wall

I even took to mounting the bike to my turbo trainer and setting a mirror to my side to see how much deflection was taking place compared to other bikes I have at my disposal. However, after some reflection (pun not intended), I concluded that while it's not what I was expecting, I actually much prefer it this way. The Isospeed decouplers on the previous bikes were good, but they could dull the ride, were heavier, and were complicated. Now, it feels as though the simplified Isospeed balances the stiff pedalling platform to provide a comfy bike that is snappy to accelerate. The new Domane is lighter, faster, more in tune with the road, and seriously fun to ride, but it's still comfortable, and can head off-road if you want it to. 

If you want a Rolls Royce ride, then it's probably not the right bike, but for what the Domane is, I don't think many people will want comfort beyond what you can get from simply upgrading the tyres and upsizing to 38mm. If you want something capable of absorbing more vibration than this, I would speculate your choice of terrain is more 'gravel' than 'road', and the 45mm clearance of the Trek Checkpoint might make that a better choice. 

Trek Domane SLR 9 leaning against a stone wall

That doesn't mean you can't take this bike onto gravel paths, though. Trek specifically says "the Domane is the perfect choice for long road rides, light gravel back roads and even racing the infamous cobbles of Paris-Roubaix," and it's on those 'light gravel trails' that I'd draw the line too. It certainly doesn't fall apart on technical gravel and singletrack, but as with all all-road bikes, it's more a case of 'you can' rather than 'you should'. 

On less technical terrain, its slack head angle and long (1022mm) wheelbase really kept it stable on my local gravel paths, stable enough that I could comfortably go for long stretches sat up riding no-handed without concern, yet it was still nimble enough to dodge puddles (there have been a lot of these lately). Given how the handling compared to the Fara All Road and Ridley Grifn, this is as much an all-road-capable bike as those that are specifically marketed as such.  

Despite that, I still think the Domane shines brightest on properly paved roads. In fact, it's still most at home on those high-paced endurance fondos that the Domane called home all those years ago. Nowadays it does that better, while also being able to do more. I wish I had it available during my 275km ride at the Chasing Cancellara sportive last year, it would have been excellent. 

I've touched on it above already, but the price of the Domane SLR 9 is prohibitively high. It's a genuinely excellent bike, but it's not £4,900 better than the equivalent-spec Giant Defy that I spent a few weeks riding beforehand. Nor is it £8,800 better than the Force-equipped Fara All Road.

Of course, if you have this sort of cash and you want to spend it here, then the bike you receive will be great; just read below, and you'll see I've given it a 10/10 on performance. However, this money brings you squarely into the realm of fully custom-made bikes, in steel, titanium and even carbon. The Argonaut GR3 , for example, is a carbon fibre gravel bike custom laid to your preferences. Even if there is no obvious performance benefit, having something made specifically for you is innately more special. 

In my eyes, the purpose of an 'all-road' bike is as a compromise; you want a bike that can head off-road, but you don't want to lose out on your road performance, you perhaps can't afford to buy both a road bike and a gravel bike. As a result, something that straddles the lines without being sluggish on the road is a good choice. The Domane sits in that bracket, and it's a good bike. 

However, this price doesn't scream compromise, so unless your reason for buying is because you specifically want to stitch together road and off-road terrain into one ride, rather than having a bike that can do both separately, I'd suggest buying two - perhaps even three - bikes that broaden the spectrum of the terrain you can cover and how well you can cover it. For example, you could buy that Giant Defy and have enough spare change to buy a Rival-equipped Trek Checkpoint for your adventure days. 

If covering all terrain in one ride is your goal, you want the absolute best spec that money can buy, you want to buy off the shelf rather than custom, and you can afford to drop £13,400 / $13,199 / €14,499 on getting it, then you won't be unhappy with the Domane SLR 9. However, I would still suggest buying the Dura-Ace Di2 version, which is a little cheaper, and you won't have to buy an entirely new power meter when your chainrings wear out. 

All in all, the mixed geometry and wider-than-road tyre clearance mean the 2023 Trek Domane stands almost alone in its category. Based on how it rides, I'd be surprised if more don't try to join it. 

Naturally, if you want an out-and-out race bike, this isn't it. If you want a gravel race bike at this price point, then the S-Works Crux is my suggestion. If you want a super-capable gravel bike, this isn't it either. However, if you want an endurance road bike, the 2023 Domane is better than ever at this very task, with the newfound ability to go off-road without flapping, and handle mudguards in winter (which is where the Specialized Roubaix falls short). 

There's no getting around the fact that the Domane SLR 9 is an expensive bike, and that will reflect heavily in the score of this review. As I said earlier, the price is impossible to ignore. However, Trek has done a very good thing in ensuring that the positives of this particular bike are applicable throughout the range. The key features (semi-integrated cockpit, aero considerations, down tube storage, Isospeed functionality, etc) are available at all of the cheaper price points. Given that third-tier groupsets are excellent nowadays, Bontrager's wheels rarely throw up issues and are backed with extensive warranties, and the SL frameset is only 204g heavier than the SLR, I think that's where I'd spend my money. 

Testing scorecard and notes

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Josh Croxton

Josh is Associate Editor of Cyclingnews – leading our content on the best bikes, kit and the latest breaking tech stories from the pro peloton.

Josh has been with us since the summer of 2019 and throughout that time he's covered everything from buyer's guides and deals to the latest tech news and reviews. On the bike, Josh has been riding and racing for over 15 years.

He started out racing cross country in his teens back when 26-inch wheels and triple chainsets were still mainstream, but he found favour in road racing in his early 20s, racing at a local and national level for Somerset-based Team Tor 2000. 

These days he rides indoors for convenience and fitness, and outdoors for fun on road, gravel, 'cross and cross-country bikes, the latter usually with his two dogs in tow.

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Meet the all-new Trek Domane

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This bike is already a Paris-Roubaix champion

The Domane was designed to be the ultimate cobble-eating road bike, and the go-to for all-day adventurers — the perfect blend of comfort and performance. Now, with the all-new fourth generation Domane, Trek has made its “ ode to the open road ,” a bike that’s ready to top podiums and go anywhere, from your local gravel trails to the famed pavé of Paris-Roubaix.

The new Domane disc is lighter and faster than ever, and proved its bona fides when Elisa Longo Borghini rode it on her way to winning The Hell of the North this past April . But don’t let the racing pedigree scare you, this is a road bike for anyone who simply loves to ride. Those long, ambling trips on a breezy autumn Sunday? Oh yeah, Domane is great for those, too. 

Here are three reasons why the new Domane is the perfect ride.

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Elisa Longo Borghini putting the new Domane through the ultimate test.

domane trek

The new Domane *could* make you this happy.

Lighter and faster than ever

“Comfortable” doesn’t mean “slow.” The Domane was born to race, winning Paris-Roubaix in 2013 with Fabian Cancellara, and Paris-Roubaix Femmes in 2021 and 2022 with Lizzie Deignan and Elisa Longo Borghini, respectively.

The fourth gen Domane disc is the lightest ever, thanks to its new lightweight frame design and premium OCLV carbon. And with updated Kammtail tube shaping, it’s also more aero. The new Domane is ready for action.

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Rear IsoSpeed is back and better than ever.

domane trek

Tire clearance up to 38c on SL and SLR models.

Ultimate comfort and versatility

The new Domane brings back rear IsoSpeed, which has been updated to help make your ride even smoother and more comfortable for the long haul. It works by separating the seatpost from the rest of the frame, providing seated compliance and much less road fatigue.

The Domane SL and SLR frames also feature tire clearance for up to 38c wide tires, allowing you to ride everything from smooth pavement to hard-packed gravel. (Or cobbles, if that’s your thing.)

domane trek

Lucinda Brand, third place at Paris-Roubaix, loves the Domane too.

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Who doesn't love extra storage?

Built for adventure

The SL and SLR models also feature top tube mounts and hidden downtube storage, so you’ll have plenty of space to pack snacks and tools for your all-day outing. Because there should be nothing holding you back from exploring the farthest reaches of your world. 

domane trek

This bike is definitely ahead of the pack.

Whether you like to ride fast or ride slow, or do a bit of both, the new Domane is there for you. Just start pedaling.

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Shop new & used Trek Domane bikes and framesets at TPC - The Pro's Closet. Find reviews, specs, weight info, prices and size charts on various models (SL 7, SLR) and popular model years. Read our Trek Domane Quick-Take Review below.

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Trek Domane - Weight, Specs, Price

Trek domane 3rd party reviews, 2022 trek domane review - a tpc quick-take.

  • IsoSpeed Technology: A standout feature, the rear IsoSpeed decouplers absorb fatiguing road chatter. They make the ride unmistakably smooth, like riding on a cushion of air.
  • Storage integration: The built-in storage compartment on the down tube is genuinely useful. It beats having to strap a saddlebag to the frame and clutter the bike.
  • Versatility: Generous tire clearance (up to 38mm without fenders) and the overall design mean the Domane is adept at handling both tarmac and light gravel. It opens up avenues for exploration beyond the usual road routes.
  • Endurance geometry: Maintaining the spirit of the Domane lineage, the 2023 version offers a comfortable, upright riding position suited for long rides.
  • Weight: (18.5 lbs size 56cm) The Domane, with all its tech and features, is on the heavier side, especially in its base models. This might not be a concern for the casual rider, but weight weenies might raise an eyebrow.
  • Cost: The technology packed into the Domane makes it a bit pricey. While you get a lot for your money, it might be overkill for those not intending to utilize all its features.
  • Aero compromises: Compared to race or aero road bikes, the Domane doesn't cut through the wind as efficiently. It's built for comfort over speed, and it shows.
  • Over-engineering for some: While tech enthusiasts might rejoice, the myriad of features could be overwhelming for someone looking for a simple endurance experience.

Bottom Line:

Review: Trek Domane 4.5 – A High-End Frame and Smart Build Kit

domane trek

While many brands have introduced “endurance” road bikes over the last few years, few have taken the idea to quite the extreme as Trek.

Trek Domane 4.5 – A High-End Frame and Smart Build Kit

The Domane was developed with considerable input from Swiss pro cyclist Fabian Cancellara , who is known for his steam-engine riding style, using his massive power output to crush cobblestones in the fabled Spring Classics. He is said to enjoy the bike so much that he rides it year-round, even in the Tour de France, choosing it over Trek’s racier Madone model.

The frame features the intriguing IsoSpeed decoupler , an ingenious system that separates the seat tube from the top tube and seatstays, and allows the seat tube to flex and pivot at the mounting point. If you stand next to the bike and put your weight on the saddle, you can see the seat tube flex slightly, but while riding it is imperceptible until you hit a bump.

A High-Performance Machine

Make no mistake: IsoSpeed is not a suspension system, and this is still a high-performance machine. If you’re expecting something akin to a suspension seatpost, think again. The frame’s ride quality is distinctly carbon—a muted road feel with less of that high-frequency vibration you feel from some aluminum frames, but still generally stiff.

Iso Speed makes itself most noticeable when crossing railroad tracks or other high-speed, sharp impacts that would normally require you to lift or shift your weight on the saddle to avoid being bounced. Not having to do that means you can keep your cadence smooth and the power high. The system seems so extreme some might think it’s a gimmick, but I’m convinced. Trek is as well—the technology will soon be adapted to its line of hardtail mountain bikes .

At the other end of the bike, the fork deserves some of the credit. It was developed with an asymmetrical steerer tube that is slightly thicker side-to-side than front-to-back, giving it a touch of compliance, but it never felt soft or shuddering.

The difference between the Domane 4.5 and the higher-end models is in the stiffness of the carbon fiber itself, and that this version uses a standard 27.2mm seat post rather than a seatmast that is integrated into the frame. I actually prefer the standard post, as it can be swapped for countless alternatives and provides an easy spot to clamp the bike in a work stand.

Trek’s DuoTap Hidden Speed

Other frame details include a spot for Trek’s DuoTap hidden speed and cadence sensor, an integrated chain guide to eliminate dropped chains and more generous tire clearance than most frames. It also has removable fender eyelets, so you can keep the clean look if you’re not using them. For an even smoother ride, you can ditch the tubes and set up the Bontrager Race wheels tubeless—another technology that is easy to dismiss until you try it.

It would be a mistake to write off the Domane as a “comfort” bike for weekend warriors. Despite accommodations for a smooth ride, it is as stiff and race-worthy as I could ask. Yet the slightly longer wheelbase makes it extremely stable, and it’s one of the few bikes I’ve ever plunged downhill at 40mph with a crosswind while still feeling relaxed. The fit adds to the comfort factor, as the slightly taller head tube gives you a more head’s-up position than Trek’s race bikes. Paired with a set of shallow-drop Bontrager handlebars , I felt great in each of the riding positions, an essential element of a long, comfortable ride.

Domane: Initial Acceleration is Direct and Instant

The adage “laterally stiff and vertically compliant” has gone beyond cliché to become something of a running joke in road bike circles. The notion that a bike can be a stiff-as-heck race machine and still be comfortable over rough pavement on long rides is not unlike a unicorn—a magical beast that surely can’t exist. But on the Domane, initial acceleration is direct and instant, with the massive, squared down tube and BB90 bottom bracket all but eliminating lateral flex.

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Back in Issue #16 I reviewed the Volagi Liscio, which also features an unusual seat tube arrangement—the seatstays bypass the seat tube and connect to the top tube. While the Liscio was smoother than the Domane in a straight line, it can’t compete with the Domane in terms of power transfer and handling accuracy. The Domane makes no sacrifices in these areas.

The Shimano Ultegra build kit performed flawlessly, as I expected. The compact crankset paired with an 11-28-tooth cassette offers tons of range for tackling the steepest pitches. The 105-level brake calipers offer power to spare, as a single finger is often enough to bring the bike to a stop.

Hitting the street for less than $2,800, the Domane 4.5 struck me as a steal, considering the high-end frame technology and the smart build kit. While it will likely be pitched to riders looking for a high-performance ride for centuries and gran fondos, the Domane is a race bike at heart that won’t beat you up on the weekdays.

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  • Price: $2,730
  • Sizes Available: 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60 (tested), 62cm
  • Weight: 18.12lbs
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The 2023 Trek Domane is now official: SL, SLR, and RSL options explained

The endurance road bike returns to its endurance road purpose..

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

Trek hasn’t exactly been shy about the fact a new Domane was imminent. We saw the endurance-come-all-road bike earlier in the year at the Classics, and Elisa Longo Borghini even rode it to victory at Paris-Roubaix Femmes. 

Now Trek has lifted the translucent curtain from the new bike, revealing all the finer details and model options. We have the new Domane SLR in hand for review but we need a little more time on it before we can offer an informed opinion. In the meantime, here’s what we know about the newly updated endurance road platform that consists of the Domane SL, the top-tier Domane SLR, and the return of a pro-friendly Domane RSL.

Simpler = lighter 

In many ways, the new Domane returns to the roots of the endurance road platform. When it was first released a little over a decade ago, the Domane was a fully-fledged road bike, just with added ride comfort and more relaxed geometry. A subtly modified version was Fabian Cancellara’s pick for conquering the cobbles, and Trek surely sold a lot of bikes off that imagery. 

However, more recent years have seen the Domane get increasingly more complicated, and that complexity came with added mass. For example, Trek took its original IsoSpeed concept from a simple flexible seat tube decoupled at the top tube via a bearing-based pivot and turned it into a system (at least at the high-end) that split the seat tube around a sliding mechanism that allowed you to tune the seated comfort. Meanwhile, the once ordinary front-end of the bike earned a de-coupled headset that allowed the fork steerer to flex more freely.

All impressive features, but also things that made the Domane heavier than a bike of its price should be.  

And so we come to the newest version of the Domane. This bike waves goodbye to both the adjustable rear IsoSpeed and front IsoSpeed and instead moves to Trek’s fourth iteration of the comfort-inducing feature. Similar to the original introduced in 2012, this new and rear-only IsoSpeed isn’t adjustable and the only moving components are isolated to the pivot point that sits between the seat tube and top tube. 

domane trek

The reasons to walk away from front IsoSpeed are closely related to what was seen with the latest Checkpoint gravel bike . It comes down to modern tyre technology and trends toward going wider in volume. The front IsoSpeed is said to have been beneficial when tyres were 28 mm in size and run at high pressures but is too stiff to make an appreciable difference with a wider-volume tyre system, such as the 32 mm tubeless tyres supplied with the bikes.  

Meanwhile, Trek has claimed that the return to its top tube-based IsoSpeed is more effective across the full-size range versus the previous seat tube-based IsoSpeed, which was unintentionally stiffer in smaller sizes. That non-adjustable flex is now said to match the most comfortable setting of the previous generation and is size-specific in the compliance provided.  

What’s new is that Trek has moved away from its almost signature upside-down seatpost topper or post-within-a-post designs, and instead adopted its own telescoping D-shaped carbon post. Securing it is a binder wedge that’s integrated with the new IsoSpeed system. The binder is hidden beneath a magnetic cover plate and is designed to work with common pre-set 5-5.2 Nm torque wrenches (or any style of torque wrench). Meanwhile, the proprietary carbon seatpost is being produced in two different set-back versions. 

domane trek

With fewer moving parts the new Domane SL and SLR framesets are approximately 300 grams lighter than before. Additionally, the new SLR version is the lightest Domane Disc yet. Trek quotes 56 cm framesets for the Domane SL (OCLV 500-series carbon) and Domane SLR (OCLV 800-series carbon) at 2,500 g and 1,700 g, respectively. However, precisely what those framesets include is somewhat unclear. Add in some refined Bontrager wheels and the formerly porky base-level Domane SL5 complete bike is now a claimed 700 g lighter – although it’ll still sit above 9 kg with pedals. 

The two tiers of Domane share the same moulds and are therefore visually and feature-wise identical. The weight difference is merely down to the Domane SL using a lower modulus “OCLV 500-series” carbon fibre lay-up. In contrast, the Domane SLR uses Trek’s high-modulus “OCLV 800-series” blend (the highest grade of carbon used in the Domane to date) that carries quite the premium pricing. Trek’s entry-level aluminium endurance road bike, the Domane AL – a bike we reviewed in 2021 – remains unchanged. 

Not unlike what we’ve seen with other bikes in this category, Trek claims improved aerodynamic performance through features already seen with its Emonda , including revised Kammtail (aka truncated airfoil) shaping and an integrated-ish cockpit with semi-concealed cable routing. That cockpit consists of a two-piece handlebar and stem, where the brake hoses and mechanical gear cables (if applicable) are routed outside of the bar and underneath the new RCS Pro stem, which features a removable cover. The cables/hoses then flow into Trek’s proprietary headset spacers/top cap before being fed through the top headset bearing. And while it’ll look less seamless, the system allows regular stems and handlebars to be used. 

Spanning a generous range, the nine available frame sizes point to the popularity of this platform. The Domane SL and SLR keep with Trek’s ‘endurance’ geometry which offers shortened reaches and raised stacks compared to its race-focussed Emonda and Madone offerings. Steering geometry remains on the quicker side for the endurance road category, while the wheelbase is a tad longer than some. 

domane trek

Still ready for all-road use

Trek claims the new Domane is a “road first” platform, but simultaneously talks to its versatility provided by the class-leading 38 mm tyre clearance. That massive tyre clearance remains unchanged from the previous generation and is based on a 6 mm window all the way around the tyre. The figure is based on what Trek considers to be the largest 38 mm-measured tyre width on the market, so there’s plenty of tolerance in here to go bigger than what is officially recommended. All Domane complete bikes come stock with 32 mm tyres. 

domane trek

If I had a way to bang a gong and shout this news, I would. The new Domane spells the end of Trek’s BB90 press-fit system, and the American company’s entire road range now features a threaded bottom bracket. Like we’ve seen with the Madone and Emonda, the Domane uses Trek’s take on the T47 ‘internal’ threaded bottom bracket, one that has open compatibility with all aftermarket T47 bottom brackets and modern crank spindle systems. 

Like previous generations, the hidden fender mounts remain, and using those allows for up to a 35 mm tyre to be fitted. Also continuing over is the down tube storage hatch that hides beneath the bidon cage. Within it you’ll find the same tool and tube wrap. Meanwhile, the mounts for a top-tube feed bag remain, too. Another minor and overlooked detail is Trek’s integrated 3S chain keeper which works admirably well. 

domane trek

The RSL, a return of the pro version

Go back to the days of Fabian Cancellara skipping across the cobbles and you’ll find that his Domane wasn’t like the one you’d find in your local Trek store. Rather it was a Race Shop Limited (RSL) version from Trek’s Project One range. Sold only in the sizes needed by the key riders of WorldTour team, this pro version combined a race-specific geometry with the wider tyre clearance and smoother frame that the Domane sought to offer. Now Trek has brought the pro version back as a frameset-only option in the form of the Domane RSL. 

domane trek

While the regular Domane SL and SLR come in a choice of nine sizes, the RSL version is offered in just five sizes spanning from 52 through to 60 cm. Those five sizes feature Trek’s H1.5 fit which offers more aggressive stack and reach figures in line with its Emonda and Madone bikes. Meanwhile, steeper head angles result in super short trail figures that should equate to a quicker steering characteristic. 

There are a few other differences that expand beyond the geometry. Pro riders tend to push bigger gears and the RSL version is designed to clear up to 54/40T rings, or a 54T if run 1x. By comparison, the Domane SL/SLR will only fit a maximum of 52/36T gearing or a 50T single ring. That chainring clearance comes with the trade-off of reduced tyre clearance, with the RSL designed to fit up to 35 mm rubber. And while the SL/SLR framesets can use either electronic or mechanical groupsets, the RSL is electronic-only. 

domane trek

Made with racing in mind, the Domane RSL also drops the down tube storage hatch, the top tube bag mounts, and the fender compatibility. As a result, it’s approximately 100 g lighter than the SLR version. 

Models and pricing 

There are many complete bike options within the new Domane SL and SLR ranges. Excluding the top-tier SLR 9 eTap (which has Trek-Segafredo team look-a-like Pirelli tyres), all models come equipped with tubeless-ready wheels (hooked bead), Bontrager R3 32 mm tubeless-ready tyres, and tubeless valves and sealant are also provided. 

The premium-priced SLR starts with the expected Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 and SRAM Red AXS options, and goes down to models with new Shimano 105 Di2 and SRAM Rival AXS. There are five stock frame colours choices shared amongst the SLR bikes and framesets. A frameset is also available for US$4,200 / €5,000 / £4,500 / AU$NA. 

domane trek

Meanwhile, the lower-cost Domane SL frame is available at the base level with Shimano 105 mechanical, and goes up to models with either Shimano Ultegra Di2 or SRAM Force AXS. And being cheaper doesn’t mean any less choice in paint, with options spanning from boring through to sparkle-drenched. And somewhat unexpectedly, Trek will offer the Domane SL as a bare frameset for US$2,500 / €3,000 / £2,700 / AU$NA.

domane trek

And as already mentioned, the pro-edition RSL is available only as a frameset, priced at US$4,200 / €5,000 / £4,500 / AU$5,600.

Review to come 

CyclingTips’s head of tech, James Huang, recently received a new Domane SLR for test, and I plan on borrowing one in October. You can expect a deep-dive review on this new endurance road bike in the coming months. 

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visma-lease a bike: cian uijtdebroeks exits giro d\u0027italia\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"giro d\u0027italia stage 11: jonathan milan wins crash-marred sprint, tim merlier relegated","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/giro-ditalia\/giro-ditalia-stage-11-jonathan-milan-wins-tense-high-speed-sprint\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/giro-ditalia\/giro-ditalia-stage-11-jonathan-milan-wins-tense-high-speed-sprint\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"giro d\u0027italia stage 11: jonathan milan wins crash-marred sprint, tim merlier relegated\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/giro-ditalia\/giro-ditalia-stage-11-jonathan-milan-wins-tense-high-speed-sprint\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"giro d\u0027italia stage 11: jonathan milan wins crash-marred sprint, tim merlier relegated\"}}\u0027>\n giro d\u0027italia stage 11: jonathan milan wins crash-marred sprint, tim merlier relegated\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"team car hits cyclist in french junior national championships","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/news\/team-car-hits-cyclist-french-junior-national-championships\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/news\/team-car-hits-cyclist-french-junior-national-championships\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"team car hits cyclist in french junior national championships\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/news\/team-car-hits-cyclist-french-junior-national-championships\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"team car hits cyclist in french junior national championships\"}}\u0027>\n team car hits cyclist in french junior national championships\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"giro d\u2019italia stage 15: tadej poga\u010dar annihilates rivals with victory on queen stage","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/giro-ditalia\/giro-ditalia-stage-15-tadej-pogacar-annihilates-rivals-with-victory-on-queen-stage\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/giro-ditalia\/giro-ditalia-stage-15-tadej-pogacar-annihilates-rivals-with-victory-on-queen-stage\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"giro d\u2019italia stage 15: tadej poga\u010dar annihilates rivals with victory on queen stage\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/giro-ditalia\/giro-ditalia-stage-15-tadej-pogacar-annihilates-rivals-with-victory-on-queen-stage\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"giro d\u2019italia stage 15: tadej poga\u010dar annihilates rivals with victory on queen stage\"}}\u0027>\n giro d\u2019italia stage 15: tadej poga\u010dar annihilates rivals with victory on queen stage\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "}]' > >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>advertise >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>privacy policy >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>contact >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>careers >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>terms of use >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>site map >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>my newsletters manage cookie preferences privacy request healthy living.

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Trek Domane SLR 9.9 Project One first ride review

Eye-burstingly expensive but bum-coddlingly comfortable

Rob Spedding

Incredible levels of comfort, potential gravel-dabbling versatility and the adjustable IsoSpeed system is genuinely useful

Very expensive, even for base-level models

The third generation of the Trek Domane carries the revised rear IsoSpeed layout first seen on the new Madone , has massively increased tyre clearances, features neat integrated storage, and has a host of aero-improvements that make it a true — and truly comfortable — super bike.

  • The 2020 Trek Domane gets more aero, more adjustable and goes disc-only
  • Trek’s cheapest ever Madone is here
  • Best road bikes 2019: how to choose the right one for you

2020 Trek Domane SLR9.9 Project One key specs

Delightful sparkly glittery Trek Domane

  • Updated frameset with top-tube mounted IsoSpeed system
  • Semi-internal cable routing
  • SRAM Red eTap AXS groupset
  • Bontrager Aeolus XXX 4 wheelset
  • Bontrager R3 28mm tyres
  • Project One bikes start at £9,650 / €10,500

More comfortable, more aero, more faster-er

The headline figures for the new Trek Domane SLR are impressive — Trek claims the bike is up to 27 per cent more compliant than the previous flagship Domane, “one minute per hour faster” than the last model and the top-end Project One version we were given to test around the roads of Padova, Italy, has a £9,650 / €10,500 ($ N/A) price tag.

I’m not expecting you to feel sorry for me but that last figure is actually one of the problems with bike launches — we get to ride the toppest of top-spec machines and, with few exceptions, they’re always impressive. And Trek will be pleased to hear that their flagship Domane Mk. III is impressive.

I’m going to start with the faster claim. While not an overtly aero bike in the same vein as the Madone, Trek has generally cleaned up the Domane to make it more slippery.

There’s nothing instantly obvious — no Kammtail seat tube, air-slicing fork designs or minuscule clearances between tyre and frame. Cables, however, are now almost entirely internal which will go some way to reducing drag.

Domane SL5 cable routing

Almost entirely internal? Trek has opted to only internalise the cables from the top tube back, which is something that I’m happy to support. Should you want to swap your bars or, you know, travel with your bike, there’s no battling with a complicated, proprietary internally-cabled stem and bar system.

Is this setup faster than the last Domane? Well, the external ‘cabling’ on this rider surely negated any aero gains from the bike but, I was lucky enough to ride last year’s Madone SLR at its launch and that, genuinely, felt like a rocket ship. Even when I was feeling rinsed, I’d look down at my Wahoo and be amazed at the speeds I was sustaining.

The Domane didn’t quite perform such miracles and doesn’t have the same accelerative oomph as the Madone but, honestly, it feels fast enough, not least for an endurance bike.

Our test model was rolling on Bontrager’s excellent Aeolus XXX 4 47mm-deep aero wheels — these are stiff, stable and quick and complement the frame well.

We’re used to bike brands telling us how their latest and greatest bikes are lighter than ever before but the new Domane has put on around 200g over the previous iteration, but then the same — at the very least — can probably be said for me compared to when I rode that Madone.

I can’t say that the Domane felt like a slouch on the climbs — I did and our Italian ride guide Allesandro will vouch for that — but it isn’t necessarily designed to be a KOM-killer in the same vein as the Emonda . You’ll have to wait for the climbing verdict of someone far skinnier for a definitive view of the Domane’s ascending attributes.

Trek Domane Mk3 tyre clearance

Tyre-wise, you can fit rubber up to 38mm-wide on the new Domane with 4mm of clearance on either side, and all bikes below the 9.9 we were riding will ship with new 32mm tyres.

It’s de-rigueur to point a comfort bike at potholes and the Domane, with its front and rear IsoSpeed, does a truly excellent job at soaking up all but the biggest hits

These, claim Trek, roll faster than narrower tyres in almost all conditions and help contribute to the Domane being their most versatile road bike ever. Could the Domane be a road and gravel machine rolled into one? Certainly, the journalists who took the Domane on a hard, fast and technical gravel ride seemed impressed.

For the road ride, we were running standard 28mm rubber and this was in no way detrimental to the Domane’s main selling point — its comfort.

  • Best road bike tyres in 2019: everything you need to know

Okay, the Italian roads we were riding were, on the whole, pretty good but there were still opportunities to test the bike’s compliance. It’s de-rigueur to point a comfort bike at potholes and the Domane, with its front and rear IsoSpeed, does a truly excellent job at soaking up all but the biggest hits.

The star of the Domane’s cushioning show is the adjustable toptube IsoSpeed damper... you can tune your Domane from racy stiff to smooth operator in just a couple of minutes

When we did encounter a rutted, broken asphalt descent the Domane handled it with aplomb — the compliance encourages you to descend faster and brake later than you might on a more rigid machine.

The star of the Domane’s cushioning show is the adjustable toptube IsoSpeed damper, which debuted on the Madone in 2018. Undo a couple of allen bolts below the top tube and a slider is revealed — move it forwards and you add more flex, backwards and the bike stiffens up.

As with the Madone, this really does work and there’s a tangible difference, meaning you can tune your Domane from racy stiff to smooth operator in just a couple of minutes. It’s worth mentioning that the top tube-mounted IsoSpeed system is only available on SLR models, although the SL’s will inherit the tuneable seatpost IsoSpeed currently found on the outgoing range toppers.

The front end IsoSpeed isn’t tuneable but does a good job of isolating shocks through the bars and the bars themselves are carbon IsoCore models. These have a layer of elastomer within the carbon which Trek says adds another 20 per cent of cushioning to the front end.

Elsewhere, our test build was decked out with SRAM’s Red eTap AXS 12-speed groupset . We love it, simple as that and, of course, the fancy Project One pearlescent paint is always a hit with any MAMIL who once lusted after a TVR Chimera .

2020 Trek Domane Mk. III early impressions

Obviously, we want to spend a lot more time on the new Domane and will be getting our hands on one back in the UK soon but first impressions are good.

It’s an excellent bike that does a very good job of catering for both fans of speed and connoisseurs of comfort. Of course, we’re also keen to test the more affordable — though the base Tiagra-equipped model comes in at a pricey $2,499 / €2,299 / £2,100 — 2020 Domane SL models as these are likely going to be more relevant to more riders. Watch this space.

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The Trek Domane+ Flattens Hills and Conquers Headwinds

Ride faster, ride farther, and make hills smaller with this powerful e-road bike.

Price: $7,000 Weight: 37.89 lb. (claimed, 56cm) Style: Electric, drop-bar endurance road bike Drivetrain: 1x11 SRAM Force 1 Material : Carbon (500 Series OCLV) Tire clearance: 35mm Motor: Bosch Performance Speed, 350 watt, 63Nm, 28 mph Range: Up to 60 miles The right bike for: Pretty much anyone who wants a little e-assistance out there on the road

The 2019 Domane+ is the electric version of Trek’s popular Domane , a bike highly regarded for its ability to smooth out rough roads. It’s designed for riders who appreciate the reliable comfort of the Domane’s endurance geometry and IsoSpeed decoupler but want the additional fun and function of an electric assist. At just under a claimed 38 pounds, the Domane+ is lighter than more utilitarian e-bikes, like the Trek Super Commuter+ , which can weigh upward of 50 pounds. That said, it’s heavier than some of the newest entries in the electric road category, like the Orbea Gain, which use a smaller motor and battery system but also don’t have as powerful an assist. The Domane+ offers 350 watts of power, while Orbea’s Gain, for example, tops out at around 250 watts.

5 Trek Domane+ Features We Love

Bosch Powertube battery

Powertube Battery

Bosch’s integrated 500Wh Powertube battery can be charged on and off the bike.

Bosch Performance Line Speed motor

350-Watt Motor

A Bosch Performance Line Speed motor offers pedal assist up to 28 mph.

Product, Red, Bicycle part, Bicycle accessory, Bicycle saddle, Bicycle seatpost, Vehicle, Carbon, Bicycle lighting, Bicycle,

Integrated Lighting

Integrated front and rear lights are powered by the battery—no charge required.

Bicycle accessory, Red, Bicycle part, Line, Bicycle frame, Carmine, Black, Maroon, Carbon, Bicycle,

IsoSpeed Technology

Trek’s decoupler technology in the seatpost makes rough terrain less likely to cause fatigue.

Bicycle handlebar, Bicycle accessory, Bicycle part, Bicycle, Water, Vehicle, Tire, Technology, Bicycle wheel, Automotive wheel system,

4 Assist Modes

Expect to get about 5o to 60 miles out of the Domane+ when it’s in Eco mode.

Given its smooth ride and powerful motor, the Domane+ is a serious contender to replace your car, especially for longer commutes. With four assist modes (Eco, Sport, Tour, and Turbo), it takes the sting out of hills and headwinds (max speed is 28 mph) and provides a range of 50 to 60 miles in Eco mode. Integrated front and rear lights make you visible day or night and—bonus!—you don’t have to charge them because they’re powered by the motor’s battery. Hidden fender mounts and clearance for up to 35mm tires mean the bike is ready for casual touring, group rides, and adventure outings on anything from pavement to gravel to rutted city roads.

It’s too soon to tell whether the U.S. market will embrace an electric road bike, but the overall e-bike market is booming—sales in the U.S. have doubled since 2016, says Jocelyn Vande Velde, Trek’s e-bike marketing manager. The company is betting that the Domane+ will appeal to anyone who wants to ratchet up the wheee! , as well as riders coming back from injury or illness, older athletes who still want to mix it up with a speedy group, and friends or couples with different fitness levels. Vande Velde says that Trek Travel will order a full Domane+ fleet for 2019, making its bike tours more accessible than ever to a wide range of riders.

Trek Domane+

Just One Domane+

While the Domane family is extensive (more than 20 models ranging from the $850 aluminum AL 2 to the nearly $12K carbon SLR 9 Disc eTap, not including Trek’s custom program, Project One), there is only one electric model for 2019. However, the drop-bar Trek CrossRip+ uses the same 350-watt Bosch Performance Speed motor on an aluminum frame with a similar drivetrain and hydraulic disc brakes for $4,200. The CrossRip+ is just a couple of pounds heavier than the Domane+, comes with rack and kickstand, and earned a Bicycling Gear of the Year designation for 2018.

Familiar Bosch Motor

The Domane+ uses a 350-watt Bosch Performance Line Speed motor with removable 500Wh Bosch Powertube battery. While the bike may be heavier than some other electric road bikes (the motor and battery add up to just under 15 pounds), the higher power output may appeal to riders who want a boost stronger than a brisk tailwind. Those extra watts, along with features like the integrated lighting and hidden fender mounts, make it a versatile choice that performs equally well on utilitarian and recreational adventures. Trek says the included 4-amp charger will take the battery to full in about three to four hours, and it can be charged on or off the bike.

Trek Domane+

Geometry Shared With Domane

The Domane+ is built on the same endurance road geometry as the regular Domane. That means a taller head tube for a more upright riding position and a longer wheelbase for greater stability. The bike also utilizes Trek’s proven IsoSpeed decoupler technology in the seatpost (but not in the fork like analog Domane), which makes rough terrain less likely to cause fatigue over long miles. In terms of construction, the company modified the carbon layup to accommodate the battery and motor. “Every bike model and size at Trek has a unique carbon fiber layup to optimize structure, ride quality, and weight,” says a spokesperson at Trek. “Domane+ is no different.”

SRAM 1x11 Drivetrain

The 1x11-speed SRAM Force 1 drivetrain and flat-mount hydraulic disc brakes make for easy shifting and reliable stopping in any conditions, and 35mm Schwalbe G-One Speed tires add cushiness off the pavement. The Bosch Purion Performance controller/display is easy to operate and read. Use the up and down arrow buttons to toggle through power modes. You can also view speed, trip distance, and real-time range estimates based on riding style and assist mode.

Riding the Domane+

I had the opportunity to preview the Domane+ at Trek headquarters in Waterloo, Wisconsin, during a short ride on local paved roads and some unpaved paths in Waterloo Firemen’s Park.

Despite sharing geometry and comfort features, the Domane+ feels different than its analog cousin. It’s simple physics: The added weight of the battery and motor, and their location (on the down tube and the bottom bracket, respectively), makes for distinct handling. Most notably, the front end feels so much lighter than the rest of the bike that, at first, it seemed to have a life of its own. And, at about twice the weight of a standard Domane, the e-version feels heavier overall. Still, the assist makes up for the extra heft, letting you accelerate quickly, slice through headwinds, and prance up steep climbs. On one steep hill, I cruised along in Turbo mode at 15 mph, much faster than I would have on an unassisted road bike, and easily matched someone who would have dropped me otherwise. It was still an effort, but much more manageable than riding a nonmotorized bike.

The Domane+ comes to life when you take it off the pavement: The burly tires and IsoSpeed technology gobble up bumps and provide stability, while the assist lets you hit speeds on gravel you might not achieve otherwise—leaving you with all the send-y feels. Shifting the 1x11-speed SRAM Force 1 drivetrain is a breeze, although the handlebar-mounted control unit requires you to move your hand to switch between assist modes. That’s not a huge deal, but it is a bit less convenient than on a road bike, especially when your hands are on the hoods or in the drops.

Overall, the bike is a blast to ride and straddles the territory between lighter e-road bikes and heavy electric utility bikes; it has the potential to be a real game changer for so many riders.

3 Great Cold-Weather Cycling Caps

SealSkinz Belgian Style

SealSkinz Belgian Style

Wind- and waterproof, with reflective knit at the back for better visibility.

Castelli Difesa 2 Cap

Castelli Difesa 2 Cap

Full coverage: Gore Windstopper on top, Thermoflex on the flaps.

Giro Merino Winter Cap

Giro Merino Winter Cap

Wool keeps your head warm and stink-free, the X-Static liner wicks sweat.

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.css-1t6om3g:before{width:1.75rem;height:1.75rem;margin:0 0.625rem -0.125rem 0;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-background-size:1.25rem;background-size:1.25rem;background-color:#F8D811;color:#000;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-position:center;background-position:center;}.loaded .css-1t6om3g:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/bicycling/static/images/chevron-design-element.c42d609.svg);} Bike Reviews

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  • Domane+ AL 5 - 2024, 49cm

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Trek Domane SL 6 Disc Road Bike Gen 4 2024

  • Trek 500 Series OCLV Carbon frame with IsoSpeed, mudguard mounts and internal storage
  • Trek Domane SL carbon fork with mudguard mounts
  • 12-speed Shimano 105 Di2 electronic groupset
  • Shimano 105 hydraulic disc brakes
  • Tubeless-ready Bontrager Paradigm Comp 25 wheels
  • Clearance for 38c tyres without mudguards, 35c with mudguards

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Trek Domane AL 5 Gen 4 Disc Road Bike

Versatility: Domane AL 5 excels on both smooth roads and gravel paths, thanks to its Alpha Aluminium frame and clearance for larger tires.

Affordability and Comfort: Ideal for beginners, it offers a comfortable all-day geometry, making it suitable for extended rides, while remaining budget-friendly.

Advanced Technology: Boasting a 12-speed Shimano 105 drivetrain, powerful disc brakes, and integrated mounts for additional gear, the Domane AL 5 provides a seamless and high-performance road biking experience.

Trek Domane SL 6 ETap Disc Road Bike Gen 4 2024

  • 12-speed SRAM Rival wireless electronic groupset
  • SRAM Rival hydraulic disc brakes

Trek Domane SLR 6 ETap Disc Road Bike Gen 4 2023

  • Trek 800 Series OCLV Carbon frame with IsoSpeed, mudguard mounts and internal storage
  • Trek Domane SLR carbon fork with mudguard mounts
  • 12-speed SRAM Rival eTap AXS wireless electronic groupset
  • Integrated power meter
  • SRAM Rival eTap hydraulic disc brakes
  • Tubeless-ready Bontrager Aeolus Pro 37 OCLV Carbon wheels

Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 3 Disc Road Bike

  • Trek Domane 500 Series OCLV Carbon frame with front and rear IsoSpeed, internal storage and mudguard mounts
  • Shimano 11-speed 105 groupset
  • Bontrager Paradigm SL wheelset
  • Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite, tubeless-ready tyres, 700x32c

Trek Domane AL 2 Disc Road Bike

  • Trek 100 Series Alpha Aluminium frame and hidden cables
  • The unique IsoSpeed Carbon fork, which swoops forward toward the dropouts, absorbs vibrations from the road so your arms won't fatigue as quickly
  • Endurance Geometry
  • Setting your wheels up as tubeless reduces the overall weight of your bike and the chance you’ll get a flat
  • Bigger tyre clearance (up to 38c) lets you run wider tyres for more traction and stability on trails and other light gravel roads
  • DuoTrap S compatibility makes it easy to wirelessly track your rides, so you can set goals and watch yourself reach them
  • Shimano Claris 8-speed compact drivetrain
  • Tektro C550 mechanical disc brakes

Trek Domane+ AL5 Electric Road Bike 2023

100 Series Alpha Aluminium frame Shimano 105 11-speed components with compact gearing 250-watt rear hub motor with a 250Wh battery offering up to 55 miles of range

Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 2024

IsoSpeed Comfort: Absorbs road vibrations for a smooth and comfortable ride, enhancing stability and endurance. Shimano 105 Precision: Reliable 12-speed shifting with the Shimano 105 groupset, ensuring efficient and smooth gear changes. Terrain Versatility: Wide tyre clearance adapts to various terrains, making it suitable for all-day adventures, club rides, and racing.

Trek Domane AL 2 Road Bike 2022

  • 12-speed Shimano Ultegra Di2 electronic groupset
  • Shimano Ultegra hydraulic disc brakes

Trek Domane SL 5 Disc Road Bike Gen 4 2023

  • 11-speed Shimano 105 groupset

Trek Domane SL 7 Disc Road Bike Gen 4 2023

  • 12-speed Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 electronic groupset
  • Shimano Dura-Ace hydraulic disc brakes
  • Tubeless-ready Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37 OCLV Carbon wheels with 32c Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite tyres

Trek Domane SLR 9 ETap Disc Road Bike Gen 4 2023

  • 12-speed SRAM RED eTap AXS wireless electronic groupset
  • SRAM RED eTap hydraulic disc brakes
  • Tubeless-ready Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37 OCLV Carbon wheels with 32c Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite tyres

Trek Domane+ SLR 7 Electric Road Bike 2023

Lightweight carbon frame with IsoSpeed technology Shimano Ultegra Di2 electronic groupset Bontrager Aeolus Pro 37 carbon wheels and R3 Hard-Case Lite tires TQ HPR50 electric motor and 360Wh battery for pedal-assisted riding up to 25kph (15.5mph)

Trek Domane SLR Disc Frameset Gen 4

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IMAGES

  1. Trek Domane SL 7 AXS Gen 4

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  2. 2022 Trek Domane SLR 9 eTap

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  3. Trek Domane AL 5 Road Bike 2023

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  4. Buy Trek Domane SL 5

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  5. Trek Domane SL 6 Gen 3 2023

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  6. Trek Domane launch: Pave-busting road bike with… suspension + video

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VIDEO

  1. #trek domane SL6 + #princeton carbon works

  2. TREK DOMANE my 2024

  3. Trek Domane SL5 2023

  4. Trek Domane RSL9 2024 Team Black #cycling #trekbike #roadbike #cyclist #wheelworx

  5. Trek Domane RSL #cycling #trekbike #cyclist #roadbike #trekbicycles #bicycle #trekbike

  6. TREK Domane SL 5

COMMENTS

  1. Domane

    Domane is a smooth, fast, and fun performance road bike that delivers incredible endurance comfort without sacrificing speed so you can ride stronger longer. ... Domane was developed in collaboration with the pros of Trek-Segafredo to create a race-ready bike that's fast and capable enough for the world's most epic events - including the ...

  2. Domane endurance road bikes

    Domane SL Gen 3 Frameset. $2,199.99. 1 of 23. View all Domane View the archive. Domane is an endurance-focused road bike that delivers incredible comfort, performance, and speed on anything from smooth pavement to light gravel.

  3. Trek Domane Review

    Trek Domane Generation Four—What is New. My biggest knock against the third-generation Domane was the weight. It was an excellent and feature-rich bike but a little hefty.

  4. Domane SL 7 Gen 3

    Domane SL 7 Gen 3. Model 5263367. Retailer prices may vary. Domane SL 7 is a high-performance endurance road bike with an all-new wireless electronic Ultegra Di2 drivetrain for lightning fast precision shifting in any conditions. An OCLV Carbon frame with Front and Rear IsoSpeed, carbon wheels, and hydraulic disc brakes keep it smooth and fast ...

  5. 2023 Trek Domane+ e-road bike review: Ultra-quiet, ultra-stealthy

    Trek isn't touting the new Domane+ as an aero bike, but it still bears a lot of aero cues. Save for a 10 mm increase in chainstay length - a consequence of the TQ HPR-50's motor casing size - frame geometry is the same as the non-powered Domane, down to the millimeter.

  6. Trek Domane SLR Review 2020

    Trek narrowed the width of the Domane's BB shell by one millimeter (compared to the T47's written standard) then added thicker flanges (a half millimeter on either side) to the BB itself.

  7. Trek's new Domane is lighter, simpler, and racier than ever

    The Domane SL will retain the 500 Series carbon that features on the current model. The new approach from Trek continues through the development of the frame's tube shapes, which have been given ...

  8. Trek Domane SLR 9 review: Can a £13k+ bike ever warrant such a price?

    The 2023 Trek Domane SLR is upgraded to Trek's top-tier OCLV 800 carbon (SL uses the cheaper, less-refined OCLV 500). The frame has retained a similar silhouette to before, but Trek has simplified ...

  9. Meet the all-new Trek Domane

    The Domane was designed to be the ultimate cobble-eating road bike, and the go-to for all-day adventurers — the perfect blend of comfort and performance. Now, with the all-new fourth generation Domane, Trek has made its "ode to the open road," a bike that's ready to top podiums and go anywhere, from your local gravel trails to the famed ...

  10. New 2023 Trek Domane Endurance Road Bike: What to Know

    New 2023 Trek Domane Endurance Road Bike Released. The BikeExchange Team September 08, 2022. Originally released as an endurance road bike designed to take riders wherever the road took them, from wins at Paris-Roubaix to their first century. Now in its fourth iteration, the Domane is as refined and versatile as ever, with a performance focus ...

  11. Domane

    The Domane was developed in collaboration with the pros of Trek-Segafredo to create a race-ready bike that's fast and capable enough for the world's most epic events - including the infamous Paris-Roubaix, where Elisa Longo Borghini and Lizzie Deignan raced Domane to victory two years in a row. Read the story.

  12. Trek Domane Bikes & Framesets For Sale

    The Domane SL5 is a versatile machine that provides confidence while taking on all-day adventures, from weekend races to leisure rides. With Trek's lightweight 500 Series OCLV Carbon and IsoSpeed system, your ride will be even smoother, faster, and more comfortable. The Domane AL2 provides stability and comfort for your endurance trips at an ...

  13. Review: Trek Domane 4.5

    Trek Domane 4.5 - A High-End Frame and Smart Build Kit. The Domane was developed with considerable input from Swiss pro cyclist Fabian Cancellara, who is known for his steam-engine riding style, using his massive power output to crush cobblestones in the fabled Spring Classics.He is said to enjoy the bike so much that he rides it year-round, even in the Tour de France, choosing it over Trek ...

  14. 2023 Trek Domane SLR review: A tauter ride, but some curious ...

    Trek includes a roll-up pouch to keep repair items organized. The full-carbon fork is a good visual match for the frame. Yep, hidden fender mounts here, too. Yet more sparkles! Trek officially approves tires up to 38 mm-wide for the Domane, but many 40s will fit. Room to spare.

  15. The 2023 Trek Domane is now official: SL, SLR, and RSL options ...

    The new Domane spells the end of Trek's BB90 press-fit system, and the American company's entire road range now features a threaded bottom bracket. Like we've seen with the Madone and Emonda, the Domane uses Trek's take on the T47 'internal' threaded bottom bracket, one that has open compatibility with all aftermarket T47 bottom ...

  16. Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4 review

    Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4 review | Budget Road Bike of the Year winner | BikeRadar.

  17. Trek Domane SLR 9.9 Project One first ride review

    Our review of the 2020 Trek Domane SLR 9.9 Project One, the flagship version of Trek's third-generation Domane road bike

  18. Trek Domane+ E-Road Bike Review

    Just One Domane+. While the Domane family is extensive (more than 20 models ranging from the $850 aluminum AL 2 to the nearly $12K carbon SLR 9 Disc eTap, not including Trek's custom program ...

  19. Domane+ AL 5

    Scratch on fork near drop out. 0.22 miles on odometer. Slammed stem. Put through 151-point inspection, washed, overhauled, and serviced by an expert Trek technician. Lifetime warranty on framesets (frame and rigid fork), main frame, and full suspension swing arms. Quick assembly guide and all necessary tools included.

  20. Trek Domane

    Compare. Trek. Domane SL Disc Frameset Gen 4 2023. slide 1 to 2 of 2. £2,429.99. RRP £2,700.00 Save 10%. Browse the full range of Trek Domane Road Bikes available to buy with FREE UK delivery and easy returns on all orders over £60 at Sigma Sports.