trek domane 4 series price

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Trek Domane 4 Series Road Bike

Domane 4 Series flies past any other carbon endurance race bike in its class, with IsoSpeed for race comfort, endurance geometry for stability, and Power Transfer Construction for speed.

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Smooth ride

Saddle White bar tape Heavy wheels

The ride is very smooth through the saddle, but a lot is transmitted through the handlebars. The bike is very stable on downhills up to my max of 44 mph. Upgraded the cassette and chain to Ultegra and shifting the rear became much smoother; cheapest maintenance change to do when your chain is worn. Upgraded the wheels to Dura Ace and lost about 1.25#; climbing instantly became better. Next upgrade is carbon handlebars 46cm and hopefully I'll get less road transmission into my arms. The dirty white bar tape will go away. The saddle was replaced early on with a Brooks. I average about 200 miles per week and do a significant amount of moderate climbing. So far there is about 7000 miles on the bike and I really enjoy it. I didn't give it a 5 overall because there is always something better out there, but this is the bike I'll be riding for a few more years at least. One of my better purchases. I recommend this for anyone looking for nimble, comfortable ride. Probably not for a racer, because lighter models are available.

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No longer care if there is chip seal. Smooth ride for your butt. Good component set.

Race light wheel spokes do not hold up. Remember you are isolated from a lot of the impacts the bike is absorbing. Hands and feet still vibrate. Section of road with caterpillar track damage hurts my feet but the vibrations don't get to my seat. White bar tape immediately looks dirty. Bontrager seat is not comfortable. 4 series carbon not so light. Notice seat movement with cadence over 105. (but smoothed out stroke, originally noticed movement over 90 cadence). Carbon bike: SKS raceblade fender mounts mar the surface finish. I need to get the Trek fender mount accessory pieces.

Smoooooth! Good commuter and distance ride. Bet you will change out wheels and seat. Reliable and takes a beating so you don't.

Very stiff, very smooth, great handling. 6800 ultegra group is brilliant. Wheels feel excellent, stiff durable and smooth. Spokes are standard dt which will make replacements cheap and easy to source.

Seat hurt me, but others may like it...not a deal breaker.

2014 Trek Domane - I've been riding and racing for about 15 years, have owned 1 custom steel, 2 aluminum, 1 carbon and a scandium alloy bikes. This is a huge step up! The marketing jargon is true, the bottom bracket is as stiff as any bike I've ridden. However the isospeed REALLY works, I was even pedalling seated across stock grids! It handles great, and all (except stock saddle) the bits feel spot on. Oh and it looks great. It's actually a really nice pearlecent white which you can't see on the website. I test rode giant defy advanced, cannondale synapse, specialized roubaix. All the others were good, but this was the best, I don't want to change anything other than the seat. This was also the cheapest. Oh yeah I'm not little either with a fighting weight of 90 kg if it can be this good for me, I reckon it's pretty darn good. Highly recommend it.

Those little nuts on the presta stems Reflectors Air in tires

This is a great bike. I like riding it.

Ultegra/105 components, superior seat vibration relief, light and stiff frame, metallic paint scheme.

None so far after 500 miles

Great mix of Ultegra and 105 components for this price range. The standout though is the Iso Speed decoupling, its no gimmick and definitely smooths out road chatter and bumps from uneven pavement. Its not a miracle cure and your hands still get rattled up on rough pavement but coming from a Synapse using the same saddle, there is a HUGE difference in what you feel transmit to your seat. The frame is beefy and offers great comfort for up to 63 miles, my longest since owning it, with just slight discomfort which I know my upcoming fitting will remedy. The frame has a BB90 bottom bracket, hidden fender bolts, a chain dropping prevention device (I've dropped mine 3 times, LBS says it needs adjusting) and will take 28mm tires which is my next upgrade and has been highly recommended. The other Bontrager RL components seem like good pieces so far.

Canondale Synapse

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The All-New Trek Domane AL Gen 4 Gets a Half-Pound Lighter with More Room for Tires

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Now on its fourth iteration, the Trek Domane AL is packed with updates, a lighter frame, and room for larger tires. The new Gen 4 Domane comes in economical offerings for the most bang for the buck and looks like a gateway bike for other disciplines.

The Domane AL is Trek’s entry-level do-it-all road bike boasts the most versatility in its lineup. The frame is aluminum, the fork is carbon, and the accessory mounts are plentiful, meaning this bike can do much more than a local fondo.

Whats New — Trek Domane AL Gen 4

The Trek Domane AL is entering a new life in Gen 4, and it’s getting bigger all-road tire clearance (up to 38mm), a sleeker frame design with internal cable routing.

New Frame and Fork Material

Trek says the new Domane AL (complete bike) is around half a pound lighter than the previous Domane AL Disc model.

How? Mainly from the redesigned frame made with Trek’s 100 Series Alpha Aluminum and a new full-carbon fork.

Can it double as a gravel bike? Yes — Word from Trek is that the max tire size is 38mm, which seems true for most tires, though it depends on your rim width. We had zero problems getting a 40mm Maxxis Reaver tire rolling in the frame, but the chainstay clearance is slightly tight. It’s good that Bontrager makes the GR1 in a 35mm width; that tire on this bike would be fast and fun.

Don’t let the carbon fork fool you; it doesn’t make this bike less of an all-arounder. The fork and newly designed frame come with plenty of mounts for fenders, bag (top tube), and anything you can think of to improve your commuter or race.

Universal Derailleur Hanger

For the first time, Domane AL comes with a new thru-axle for Universal Derailleur Hanger compatibility. This design is the same UDH on Trek mountain bikes. This means fewer hangers around the basement and more cross-category compatibility with other bikes.

What’s That Handlebar?

The front end is more modern on the new Domane, thanks partly to the headset’s internal cable routing and an updated bar. The Trek Domane AL Gen 4 gets a modern road bar with a shorter reach and a 4mm flare between the hoods and drops.

Trek Domane AL Gen 4 Geometry

The geometry remains unchanged for the Domane AL from previous versions. The setup is the Trek endurance geometry, which isn’t too aggressive and laid back enough for newer riders to feel comfortable.

Available Sizes : 44, 49, 52, 54, 56, 58 and 60cm

Trek Domane AL Gen 4 Models and Pricing

The new Trek Domane AL Gen 4 comes in three different build options, starting at $1,200 and tops out at $2,000. All have the same updated 100 Series Alpha Aluminum frame and a new full-carbon fork.

The difference is in the components and hubs. All three bikes feature the same handlebar/stem, saddle, rims, and seatpost.

Where they differ is the top-end 105 version gets Bontrager Alloy sealed bearing hubs, and the Claris and Tiagra versions get Formula RX-512 alloy hubs.

Top Level Domane AL 5 Gen 4

• Groupset: Shimano 105
• Weight: N/A
• Price: $2,000

Mid Level Domane AL 4 Gen 4

• Groupset: Shimano Tiagra
• Weight: 22.82lbs/10.35kg
• Price: $1,700

Entry Level Domane AL 2 Gen 4

• Groupset: Shimano Claris
• Weight: 23.26lbs/10.50kg
• Price:$1,200

Trek Domane AL Availability

Those looking to test ride or purchase a Domane AL are currently available globally on Trekbikes.com and through Trek’s global network of retail partners.

Look for a review of the Trek Domane AL 3 shortly as we put it through the paces this fall alongside the new Bontrager Aeolus Pro 49V wheels.

Jordan Villella is the Racing Tech Editor for BikeRumor.com, specializing in cross-country mountain, gravel, road, and cyclocross. He has written about bicycles and bike culture for over fifteen years with no signs of stopping.

Before BikeRumor, Jordan raced professionally and wrote for MTBR and the now-defunct Dirt Rag Magazine. He’s covered the World Championships, World Cups, and everything in between — where he loves to report what people are riding.

Based in Pittsburgh, PA,  Jordan coaches cyclists of all abilities with  Cycle-Smart ; you can find him racing bikes around North America and adventuring with his family.

For an inside look at his review rides follow him on Strava .

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How about dropping weights in metric too. Can’t be that difficult.

Just added – thanks!

The “brake bridge” in the photos is for mounting fenders and need not be installed for normal use…the formed headtube is also not new, my 2018 Emonda ALR has a hydroformed headtube, also. Glad Trek is still making aluminum road bikes, though.

This formed headtube is a new formed headtube. I think even the first gen Domane AL had a hydroformed headtube too. But they’ve updated it with every iteration.

Pretty great that there’s a $1200 bike, even if it’s Sora

Crazy, over 23#!. my 30 year old steel slim chance is 19#, my aluminum co-motion tandem is only a pound heavier. I was selling Centurion Ironmans 30 years ago, steel, and only 20# at $550! Progress?

I stopped reading when it said headset cable routing.

Cables passing through the headset at this price level – INSANITY! The owner will never want to pay what it will cost to replace the bearings. A quick note, you wrote that it has: “a modern road bar with a shorter reach and a 4mm flare between the hoods and drops” I know you guys struggle with metric, but I assume you mean 4 degrees, because 4 mm is effectively nothing there.

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

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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• Sizes Available: 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60 (tested), 62cm
• Weight: 18.12lbs
• Proper Bike Fit: Comfort and Efficiency on Every Ride
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The New Trek Domane: A Great Bike Made Better

The new Domane is everything great about the old bike, plus lighter and quicker.

The Takeaway: Trek’s best road bike gets faster, lighter, quicker, and better

• Frames are 300 grams lighter
• Slight aerodynamic improvements
• Compatible with any bar and stem

Price: $3,500 (SL 5) to $13,200 (SLR 9 eTap, tested) Weight: 19.7lb. (SL 5) to 16 lb. (SLR 9) 16.8 lb. as tested (SLR 9 eTap 52cm)

Trek Domane MK.4 Gallery

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. So, I am happy to report that one of the most significant changes to the fourth generation frame is it is lighter by about 300 grams (more than half a pound. A large part of the weight savings came from simplifying the bike’s signature rear IsoSpeed Decoupler and eliminating the IsoSpeed Front system that debuted in the previous generation Domane.

When asked why Trek eliminated IsoSpeed Front, Jordan Roessingh, director of road bikes, stated that much of the system's benefit—which never offered the same compliance improvement as rear IsoSpeed—was made redundant by riders' increased adoption of higher volume tubeless tires run at lower pressures. Combined with the system’s weight penalty, Trek decided the juice was not worth the squeeze and punted IsoSpeed front into the dustbin of history.

Meanwhile, at the rear, Trek removed the adjustment from the SLR’s top tube IsoSpeed. All frames now have fixed compliance. Reggie Lund, a design engineer at Trek, said that it found, “A lot of our riders were never taking advantage of the adjustability on the previous generation bike,” so they decided to remove the feature which simplified and lighted the frame. Roessingh stated that the new Domane’s fixed compliance is in line with the previous generation SLR’s IsoSpeed set to the most compliant position.

SL-level frames also see a change to their rear IsoSpeed system. Trek has multiple iterations and generations of IsoSpeed. While third-generation Domane SLR frames had adjustable top tube IsoSpeed, third-generation Domane SL frames had non-adjustable seat tube IsoSpeed. SL and SLR fourth generation Domanes get the new non-adjustable top tube IsoSpeed.

Roessingh said that one of the drawbacks of the third-gen Domane’s non-adjustable seat tube IsoSpeed was that the system got more rigid as the seat tubes got shorter. In short, smaller and likely lighter riders experienced a rougher ride than larger riders. Top tube IsoSpeed eliminates this compromise and lets Trek tune compliance per frame size, said Rosseingh, so all riders experience similar levels of comfort.

Another signature feature of carbon framed Domane models that went to the dustbin was Trek’s No Cut semi-integrated seat mast. Instead, all models now use a seat post, although a proprietary D-shaped post instead of being round. Thankfully, Trek offers two lengths (280 and 320mm) and two offsets (five and 20mm) to help riders dial in fit. The seatpost clamp hides under a snap-on cover on the top tube, which helps clean up the lines of the new Domane.

Another way Trek cleaned up the Domane’s appearance is with a new stem with a cap that hides the hoses and housing before they enter the frame through the upper headset cover. But while the bike appears to have fully integrated routing, you can swap stem lengths without pulling the hoses or housing. The bike is compatible with a standard handlebar, and riders can use standard stems. However, if you want to install a standard stem, you will need to acquire a different upper headset cover from Trek, and you will probably want to zip-tie your hoses and housing together underneath the stem.

Trek’s Domane stem comes in sizes 60 to 130mm in minus-seven degree rise and 60 to 100mm in plus-seven degree rise. The faceplate features a single bolt mount for a computer/light/camera. Unfortunately, the Domane stem’s one-bolt mounting standard is different from Trek’s one-bolt mounting system for the Madone and Emonda and also different than any of the other stems with this feature (3T, Cervelo, Fizik, Specialized, Felt, Easton).

Trek also states that the new Domane is more aerodynamic than the previous generation due to the updated shape of the fork, downtube, seat tube, seat stays, and more-integrated cables in the front. However, Trek did not provide any data on the aerodynamic improvements. When I asked Roessingh for time or watt improvements, he told me, “I don’t think we have a specific claim other than saying we do know the bike is faster. But it’s not a huge amount so it’s not a claim we’re labeling as one of the headlines of the launch.”

One small new feature added to the Domane is a mount in the top tube for a feed bag. What has not changed is the Domane has clearance for up to a 38mm tire, hidden fender mounts, the threaded (T47) bottom bracket, and the in-frame storage accessed through the hatch in the downtube.

SL and SLR frames are compatible with mechanical drivetrains. But, there is a catch outlined in Trek’s FAQ, “The frame does not have a front derailleur housing stop, which means that you are limited to front derailleurs with a built-in stop, like Shimano toggle front derailleurs.” That means the frame is not compatible with SRAM or Campagnolo mechanical-shift drivetrains.

Trek Domane Four—SL Versus SLR

There are two grades of Domane frame: SL and SLR. According to Roessingh, “SL and SLR are essentially identical from a feature set perspective and frame shape perspective.” The biggest difference is the carbon: The SL uses Trek’s “500 Series” carbon while the SLR uses “800 series” carbon. That material difference results in a 200-300 gram reduction in frame weight. According to Trek, this puts the SL frameset at 2,500 grams and the SLR frameset around 2,200 grams.

Trek Domane Four—RSL for the Racers

Although Trek’s professional racers ride a Domane in some events, typically the cobbled classics, they do not ride the standard frame. Instead, they use the Domane RSL (Race Shop Limited). It is the frame ridden to victory in the 2022 Paris-Roubaix Femmes by Elisa Longo Borghini , and it has a few notable differences from the mainline frame.

The primary distinction is fit. The RSL fame is much lower and longer than the SL and SLR Domane. Using a 56cm frame as an example the RSL’s reach is 21mm longer (395 versus 347mm) while the stack is 43mm shorter (548 versus 591mm). The RSL also has a much shorter trail length (51mm compared to 61), likely because of the increased weight the RSL’s geometry places on the front wheel.

Other changes include eliminating the top tube bag mounts and in-frame storage hatch—you do not need those things when you have a fleet of team cars behind you—and the fender mounts. These changes help shave weight off the frame compared to the standard Domane. The RSL frame also has less tire clearance—its maximum tire width is 35mm instead of 38mm—but will fit larger chainrings (RSL: 2x 54/40, 1x 54T; SLR and SL: 2x 52/36, 1x 50T) than the SL and SLR models. Another noteworthy difference: The RSL is only compatible with electronic shifting.

Trek only offers the RSL as a frameset ($4,200) and only in sizes 52 to 60cm, four fewer sizes than the mainline frame. Claimed frameset (frame and fork) weight is 1600 grams for the RSL. On paper, that makes the RSL a whopping 600 grams lighter than the SLR. But when I fact-checked that weight delta with Roessingh, he told me, “The way we measure ‘frameset” weights in those metrics isn’t apples to apples. It includes a bunch of hardware and components. The RSL frame weight is only about 100g lighter than the SLR’s.”

Trek Domane Mk.IV—Geometry

Most of the Mk. IV Domane models carry forward the Mk. III’s endurance geometry with no changes. It is a shorter reach and a taller stack fit, with a longer wheelbase and mellower handling than a race bike. Trek offers nine sizes, from 44 to 62cm.

The RSL version previously mentioned features a lower and longer fit race fit that is even more aggressive than the Madone and Emonda race bikes with the brand’s H1.5 geometry. The RSL is only offered in five sizes, from 52 to 60cm.

Trek Domane Mk.IV—Builds, Prices, and Weights

Trek’s rolling out the new Domane with 11 models: five SL builds priced between $3,500 to $7,500 and six SLR models priced at $8,000 to $13,200. Only one model, the $3,500 SL 5, has a mechanical shifting drivetrain (Shimano 105); all the rest have electronic drivetrains from Shimano and SRAM. The SL 5 is also the only 11-speed bike; the rest are 12-speed.

All models come with Bontrager tubeless-ready wheels and Bontrager’s R3 folding-bead, tubeless-ready tires in 32mm.

Claimed weights start at 8.93Kg (19.7 lb.) for the SL 5, with the lightest complete bike coming in at 7.25kg (16 lb.). One interesting note on prices and weights: For the same relative equipment level— Ultegra Di2 versus Force eTap AXS —most Shimano-equipped bikes are less expensive and lighter than the SRAM-equipped bikes. There is a big “but” because all SRAM-equipped Domanes from the SL 7 eTap and up have power meters while the Shimano builds have standard cranks. The other exception is the SL 6 ( Shimano 105 Di2 ) and SL 6 eTap ( SRAM Rival eTap AXS )—the Shimano bike is $600 cheaper but slightly (10 grams) heavier.

As always, the Domane will eventually, though not immediately, find its way into Trek’s Project One customization program for riders who want to pick their parts and paint. Trek also offers the SL ($2,499), SLR, and RSL (both $4,200) framesets for purchase.

Trek Domane Mk.IV—Ride Review

Trek’s Domane has been a favorite of mine since the first generation, but the third generation was flat-out amazing. Comfortable, practical, and fun, it had most of the speed of a race bike without the bullshit that makes race bikes so limited and limiting. It fits big tires! You could run any bar and stem! It could store a burrito in the downtube! And it was fast .

So when Trek told me they were sending me the new, fourth generation, Domane I hoped and prayed that they found a way to make it better without messing up what made it so great. And friends, my hopes and prayers were answered because riding the fourth generation Domane was like reacquainting with a dear old friend, but one who lost a bunch of weight and now goes to therapy. Because this bike is everything the gen-three Domane was, but better.

You can read what I said about the third-generation Domane when I reviewed it and when I wrote it up as our 2020 Bike of the Year and take all of the good stuff and apply it to the new, fourth-generation Domane. But my complaints about it being a little heavy are gone. And with the weight reduction, the gen-four Domane unlocks new performance levels.

The biggest difference is the new bike is quicker, snappier, and just flies. When you hear someone talk about a comfortable road bike, it usually suggests a bike that is squishy and slow feeling. But when you get on a bike that is fast, quick, and communicative but also floats and coddles the rider like a newborn baby, well, that is a special bike. And that is what the new Domane is: Special. A great bike made better. A bike for the modern road rider: Freaking fast, wonderfully comfortable, and oh so practical.

A gear editor for his entire career, Matt’s journey to becoming a leading cycling tech journalist started in 1995, and he’s been at it ever since; likely riding more cycling equipment than anyone on the planet along the way. Previous to his time with Bicycling , Matt worked in bike shops as a service manager, mechanic, and sales person. Based in Durango, Colorado, he enjoys riding and testing any and all kinds of bikes, so you’re just as likely to see him on a road bike dressed in Lycra at a Tuesday night worlds ride as you are to find him dressed in a full face helmet and pads riding a bike park on an enduro bike. He doesn’t race often, but he’s game for anything; having entered road races, criteriums, trials competitions, dual slalom, downhill races, enduros, stage races, short track, time trials, and gran fondos. Next up on his to-do list: a multi day bikepacking trip, and an e-bike race. 

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Trek Domane AL review: Blurring the line

Big tire clearance and lower weight give trek’s aluminum all-road bike credibility both on road and on dirt..

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The Trek Domane serves as the entry point not only to Trek’s road bike lineup for many but also to road cycling as a whole. Many of these cyclists will go with the Trek Domane AL a road bike that has to wear many hats. Some want it to be a swift recreational ride. Others want it as a potential commuter. Somehow, the Domane AL has managed to competently do both. 

As versatile a package as the previous Domane AL disc was, this latest fourth-generation Domane AL can realistically serve as someone’s gravel bike now, with some caveats.

As such, the Domane AL (pronounced ‘dough-MA-knee’) has been updated to offer even more options for the prospective cyclist who is looking for one bike to be both a road bike and a gravel bike.

Trek Domane AL updates

The updated Trek Domane AL is built with Trek’s Alpha 100-series aluminum. There isn’t much to it: standard alloy tubes, plain welds, and all of that. Despite the lack of serious tube shaping, there is a passing semblance between this bike and the Domane SL carbon bike I’ve ridden as well as the high-end Domane SLR road bike . Paired with that is a new full-carbon fork that offers loads of tire clearance.

Trek claims the updated Domane AL frame and fork is around a half pound lighter (approx 225 grams) than the previous Domane AL Disc. 

The Domane AL is updated to include internal cable routing from the headset down to clean up the cables. While this looks clean and it works well for the most part, replacing shift housing and fixing hydraulic brake lines will likely be a more expensive proposition when compared to the previous-generation Domane AL Disc.

There’s a standard 27.2 mm seat post and English threaded bottom bracket like before, but the bottom bracket area is updated to include a chain catcher that’s integrated into the frame. Additionally, the Domane AL features a rack mount at the rear for commuting. Fender mounts there to keep you dry on your ride, with the rear featuring a removable seat stay bridge too.

The Domane Al receives a Sram Universal Derailleur Hanger (UDH). While the UDH spec makes finding a new derailleur hanger an inexpensive and simple proposition, the Domane AL is also one of the first road bikes I’ve seen with it.

And perhaps most interestingly, the price of the Domane AL has gone down, at least in the U.S. Our Domane AL 4 shown here is $100 US cheaper than previously. Prices in other markets remain consistent.

Can a Trek Domane AL be a gravel bike? Mostly, yes

The updated feature set comes with Trek’s eyes set not only on the road but for gravel too. Official tire clearance is for 700c x 38 mm tires, but the Domane AL fits 40 mm knobby gravel tires front and rear without an issue. More importantly, the tires cleared the Shimano Tiagra front derailleur, meaning you won’t have to swap a front derailleur and crankset to have proper tire clearance with a gravel tire.

Further, the bottom bracket bottle cage mount and the top tube bag mount are distinct features once reserved for gravel bikes.

Trek has also updated the Domane AL with new handlebars. While Trek hesitates to call them flared handlebars, the bars do flare out to be wider in the drops than at the brake levers. My size 52 cm bike featured bars with a 40 mm width at the tops, but a 44 cm width at the drops. 

Is a handlebar a big deal in the grand scheme of things? No, but it goes a long way toward right-sizing handlebars for cyclists. Further, the wider drops offer a sense of greater control while in the drops. That’s huge for anyone, and good to see Trek thinking about that at this price point.

Importantly, this added capability makes the Trek Domane AL a worthwhile choice for someone looking to dabble in both road bike and gravel bikes. While the bike is still a road bike at heart, its features make it capable enough to ride lighter gravel frequently.

Updated geometry

The Domane AL geometry hasn’t changed compared to the previous generation, but that’s not a bad thing. The Domane might just be the poster child of an upright road bike, with geometry that always leans on the upright as opposed to aggressive scale.

Further, the slack head angle, longer fork offset, 420 mm chainstays, and low 80 mm bottom bracket drop across sizes further lean into the bike’s mission of being approachable for riding long distances.

One thing to note is that the bike’s handling isn’t languid or sluggish: rather, the trail figures here indicate a bike that turns won’t quite feel like a boat on the road.

Riding the Trek Domane AL

My bike is essentially a Trek Domane AL 4. It features a Shimano Tiagra 10-speed drivetrain with hydraulic disc brakes. The rest of the build comes from Bontrager: Paradigm SL wheels, a Verse Comp saddle, and R1 Hardcase Lite tires in a 32 mm width.

My size 52 cm Trek Domane AL 4 weighed in at 22.27 pounds (10.1 kg) set up with tubes in the tires.

The updated Domane AL is exactly what you’d expect from the Domane lineup: comfort-first body positioning and predictable handling. Part of that comes down to the low bottom bracket; the 80 mm bottom bracket drop on my bike brings the center of gravity ever so slightly lower. Doing so makes the bike feel more stable and confidence-inspiring through the corners, at least theoretically. 

In reality, that low bottom bracket and the 32 mm tires as this bike was built make the bike feel really stable through corners. There’s plenty of grip, sure, but the confidence makes you feel willing to push the bike further on the road.

On gravel? The Domane AL rides along without complaint. The low bottom bracket offers good stability riding through chunk even with 40 mm tires. And while the trail figures are a little quicker than an average gravel bike at this price point, it feels quick and sporty on gravel. It would be an easy choice to ride on smooth gravel at events like SBT, but probably not the right bike for an event like Unbound. 

The Trek Domane AL 4 features a Shimano Tiagra 10-speed drivetrain with hydraulic brakes. While the groupset isn’t especially lightweight, the shifts are consistently crisp. Further, the braking is strong, consistent, and a worthwhile upgrade over most mechanical disc brakes. 

Trek’s in-house component line, Bontrager, fills in the rest of the gaps here. The wheelset rode along without complaint, and its tubeless-ready profile makes it an easy wheelset to hold onto in the future. They are heavy wheels, however, weighing in at 2130 grams without tires. 

While the Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite 32 mm tires are known to be hard-wearing and durable, they aren’t quick-rolling. They’re heavy too; swapping them for a set of 32 mm Teravail Telegraph tires made the bike feel noticeably more spry. Ride through them if you’d like, but swapping these tires is an easy upgrade to the Domane AL’s overall ride.

I would’ve liked to see Centerlock compatible hubs here rather than 6-bolt so the end user can choose between 6-bolt and Centerlock rotors, but I suspect 6-bolt rotors were less expensive. Nonetheless, the brakes stopped reliably and brake rotor replacements will be cheaper down the line.

One more nitpick, particularly for folks riding a smaller frame: the seat tube water bottle cage mount is set too high. You can fit a 21 oz bottle here with a little room, but there is loads of space to mount it lower. I understand why Trek didn’t do it – the band-on front derailleur mount and integrated chain catcher need room – but smaller riders want bigger bottles, too!

The touch points on the bike – the bars and saddle work well. The handlebars are comfortable all over, with a slightly flattened profile at the tops and plenty of room to move around in the drops, partially thanks to the flare in the drops. Further, I get along well with the Bontrager Verse Comp saddle, a choice that feels right on bikes three times the price of this Domane AL.

I would call the Trek Domane AL safe. The bike doesn’t feel particularly urgent or excited to get up to speed, but it does feel confident and composed once there. The handling is predictable and smooth, but not especially sharp. They’re exactly what I expected from the Domane. But the gravel road capability surprised me, giving the Domane AL real all-road bike credibility.

The gravel bike tire clearance, mounts for racks and fenders, and full carbon fork are nice upgrades to a bike that I think will make a lot of people happy, whether they’re new to cycling or a seasoned rider alike.

Bike: Trek Domane AL 4 Gen 4

Price: $1,699.99 / £1,875 / €1,999

trekbikes.com

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Results have arrived, trek domane bikes & framesets for sale.

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:

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A Versatile Road Bike: Trek Domane 4.0

If you can only own one bike, this Trek might be the most versatile out there.

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Trek Domane 4.0 $2,100, Trekbikes.com

Unless you’re planning to own multiple bikes, you’re going to have to decide between a triathlon-specific bike and a well-rounded road machine. The Trek Domane, however, offers a compromise.

This smooth-riding road bike is suited to finding the sweet spot between traditional road and tri positions. Slapping aerobars on a road bike often forces the rider into a scrunched position, resulting in a loss of power. The Domane’s geometry—handlebars higher above the ground and closer to the rider than many race-tuned road bikes—creates a conservative road position and facilitates an efficient aero position when coupled with clip-on aerobars.

RELATED: Can One Bike Do It All?

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$3k Endurance Bike Shootout: Trek Domane 4.7 Review

• Price : $3199
• Frame Size : 56cm
• Weight : 18.03 pounds
• Front wheel with skewer, tire and tube : 1130 grams
• Rear wheel with cassette, skewer, tire and tube : 1720 grams
• Frame Material : Domane 400 Series OCLV carbon
• Color : White
• Fork: Trek IsoSpeed
• Shifters : Shimano Ultegra
• Front Derailleur : Shimano Ultegra
• Rear Derailleur : Shimano Ultegra
• Cassette : Shimano Ultegra (11-28)
• Chainrings : Shimano Ultegra (50-34)
• Chain : Shimano
• Brakes : Shimano Ultegra
• Wheels : Bontrager Race
• Tires : Bontrager R2, 25c
• Bars : Bontrager Alloy Blade
• Stem : Bontrager RL
• Headset : FSA
• Saddle : Bontrager affinity 2
• Seat post : Bontrager
• Cables/Housing : Jagwire Lex-SL
• Cable Routing : External

Attachments

Brent_Smith

How about adding the Orbea Avant to the list. I paid $3299 for an Ultegra disc equipped bike last year. Fantastic bike. Thanks Jason.  

Am I the only one who thinks the Domane rear end is scary in a bumpy turn? I feel it in the front in my hands, but the rear feels like I'm skidding because there's very little feedback.  

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• Rider Notes

2017 Trek Domane S 4

A carbon frame endurance bike with mid-range components and rim brakes.

Manufacturer Price

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Based on frame geometry and build specs.

A bike with lower gearing will be easier to ride up steep hills, while a higher top end means it will pedal faster down hills.

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• 6'0", size 56cm, Just right

Feb 2024 · road.cc Tech

With Classics season upon us, let’s take a look back at the high-tech bike that Spartacus rode in his final race season, with rim brakes and mechanical shifting

Read Review

May 2018 · Anna Cipullo

A bike that’s comfortable and forgiving, but stiff and powerful in all the right places. Buy if you want an exceptionally smooth and comfortable ride, but aren’t willing to sacrifice speed or control for the privilege

IsoSpeed and big 32mm tyres really smooth out the road, exceptionally comfortable, excellent climber, built-in ANT and Bluetooth sensor

A fraction heavier than some competitors, but still a better climber

The Trek Domane SL7 endurance road bike comes in a wide variety of specs, prices and with disc or rim brakes. But the real selling point is the IsoSpeed decouplers front and rear that reduce bumps and impact forces to improve long distance cycling comfort. Read our Trek Domane review for tech details & more!

Jul 2017 · Benjamin Topf, Manuel Buck, Robin Schmitt

Trek Domane SLR 10 RSL: Race Shop Limited – The American manufacturer doesn’t really do understatements, not even when it comes to the name of their bikes.

Mar 2017 · Fred Dreier

We got word that John Degenkolb was set to ride a new custom Trek Domane H1 version this Sunday at Gent-Wevelgem. On Friday, Degenkolb took the new whip

Mar 2017 · Andy Waterman

The Trek Domane 4.3 Disc is the future, and it only takes one ride for you to realise it

Geometry is perfect

It is not a lightweight set up and will quickly be superseded

Feb 2017 · Matthew Pioro

The endurance bike gets smoother

Oct 2016 · Henry Robertshaw

Slider down the side of seat tube lets you alter the ride quality

Incredibly versatile

Comfortable on long rides

Great power transfer

Excellent wheels

Tyres cut easily

No adjustability on lower models

Last updated July 21 Not listed for 2,473 days

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• Domane SL 5 Gen 4

Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4

Domane SL 5 is ready to take on rough roads and long miles with a ride that's smooth, sleek, and aerodynamic. The lightweight 500-series OCLV Carbon frame has rear IsoSpeed to smooth out bumps in the road and reduce fatigue, and an integrated cockpit for a setup that looks as good as it feels. It features a reliable Shimano 105 drivetrain, disc brakes for all-weather stopping power, and an easy-access internal storage compartment for stowing ride essentials. Plus, tire clearance for lofty 38c hoops lets you take on almost any road, from tarmac to light gravel. It's right for you if... You want a fast ride that's built for the long haul, and prefer the feel of vibration-damping, lightweight and carbon and road smoothing IsoSpeed. Rides might take you over smooth pavement, rough roads, and well beyond, and you want a bike with wide tire clearance and disc brakes to get you through it all. The tech you get A light and refined 500 Series OCLV Carbon frame and fork with road-smoothing rear IsoSpeed, powerful flat-mount disc brakes, a full 2x11 Shimano 105 groupset, and tubeless ready wheels with wider 700x32 tires. An integrated cockpit, internal storage, top tube mounts, and cable routing add to the bike's capability and sleek look. The final word Carbon, comfort, capability. Domane SL 5 is the dream bike for long rides. Its light and fast carbon frame, stable endurance geometry, and road-smoothing rear IsoSpeed keep you comfortable through long miles. You also get the added advantage of a higher-end Shimano 105 drivetrain and powerful disc brakes that let you run wide tires. Why you'll love it - The sleek all-new frame saves weight and gives you more free speed thanks to updated Kammtail tube shapes - This bike is super versatile, super smooth, and equally suited to all-day adventures on the open road, club rides, and racing - Road-smoothing rear IsoSpeed absorbs fatiguing bumps in the road for a smoother, more comfortable ride - A sleek internal storage compartment gives you a versatile spot to stow tools and gear, while top tube mounts let you cleanly bolt on a bag for all day adventures

Due to supply-chain issues, Specs are subject to change without notice.

* Subject to change without notice.

Part Numbers

2023 Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 Review

Trek has been one of the leading manufacturers in the cycling industry for decades, and their latest release is no exception.

The 2023 Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 is a high-end road bike that promises to deliver a smooth and comfortable ride while also being fast and efficient.

In this review, we will take a closer look at the features of the 2023 Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 and evaluate its performance on the road.

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a beginner, this bike may be the perfect addition to your collection. So, let’s dive into the details and see what this bike has to offer.

The Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 is a road bike that has been designed for endurance rides and long-distance cycling.

With a lightweight carbon frame and a comfortable riding position, this bike is perfect for riders who want to take on challenging rides without sacrificing comfort.

The 2023 Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 is a top-of-the-line road bike that offers exceptional performance and unmatched comfort.

Designed for serious cyclists who demand the best, this bike is packed with advanced features that make it the perfect choice for long-distance rides, races, and everything in between.

– Advanced 500 Series OCLV Carbon frame construction for maximum strength and durability.

– IsoSpeed decoupler technology absorbs bumps and vibrations for a smooth, comfortable ride.

– Shimano 105 2×11 groupset featuring a 11-34t cassette and compact 50/34t chainrings provide reliable shifting and excellent performance.

– Tubeless-ready Bontrager Paradigm SL wheels and Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite 700x32mm tires for improved traction and reduced rolling resistance.

– Flat mount Shimano 105 hydraulic disc brakes for superior stopping power and control.

– Bontrager carbon seatpost and alloy handlebars for a lightweight, responsive feel.

– Sleek, modern design with eye-catching color options.

– Excellent customer reviews and ratings.

Frame and Design

The 2023 Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 comes with a lightweight 500 Series OCLV Carbon frame that has been designed to provide maximum comfort on long rides.

The frame features Trek’s IsoSpeed technology that helps to absorb road vibrations, making the ride smoother and more comfortable.

The bike also comes with a carbon fork that helps to reduce weight and increase stiffness.

The 2023 Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 comes with a Shimano 105 2×11 groupset, which is known for its reliability and smooth shifting.

The bike features a compact 50/34T crankset and an 11-34T cassette that provides a wide range of gears for climbing hills and sprinting on flats.

The bike also comes with Bontrager Paradigm SL wheels that are lightweight and provide excellent aerodynamics.

The 2023 Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 has been designed for maximum comfort on long rides.

The bike features Trek’s IsoZone handlebar system that helps to reduce road vibrations and provide a comfortable grip.

The bike also comes with a Bontrager Verse Short Comp saddle that provides excellent support and comfort for the rider.

Performance

The 2023 Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 is a bike that is designed for endurance rides and long-distance cycling.

The bike’s lightweight frame and comfortable riding position make it easy to ride for long hours without feeling fatigued.

The bike’s Shimano 105 groupset provides smooth shifting and a wide range of gears, making it easy to tackle challenging climbs and sprint on flats.

The 2023 Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 is a road bike that has been designed for endurance rides and long-distance cycling.

With its lightweight frame, comfortable riding position, and reliable components, this bike is perfect for riders who want to take on challenging rides without sacrificing comfort.

If you’re looking for a bike that can take you on long rides and provide maximum comfort, the 2023 Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 is definitely worth considering.

Order online and have it shipped to your local dealer for final assembly!!

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The Best Road Bikes for Racing and Endurance

Hit the pavement with these five dynamic picks

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Shopping for a new road bike can be as fun as it is nerve-wracking. There are hundreds of options, from practical picks to WorldTour-level bikes ridden by the pros. The sheer number of builds, features, and specifications can confuse even the most avid riders.

Fortunately, we have a team of experts who spend their days obsessing over what exactly makes the best road bike for racing, recreation, and endurance. We tapped them to test this year’s crop of 42 bikes all over the world to help you make the right decision.

At a Glance

• Editor’s Choice: Cannondale SuperSix EVO ($8,300)
• Best High-End Performance Race Bike: Specialized Tarmac SL8 ($14,000)
• Best Value: Trek Domane AL ($1,699)
• Best Fast Road Race Bike: Scott Foil RC Pro ($8,999)
• Best Endurance/Performance Hybrid: Lauf Uthald ($4,690)
• Best Versatile Aero Bike: Giant Propel Advanced SL 0 ($12,500)
• Best Sequel: Cervelo Soloist Ultegra Di2 ($6,800)

How We Test

Meet our lead tester, how to choose a road bike.

All gear in this guide was tested by multiple reviewers. If you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This supports our mission to get more people active and outside. Learn more .

Editor’s Choice

Cannondale supersix evo.

$8,300 at Cannondale

Test bike: SuperSix Evo Hi-Mod 2 (56 cm) Weight: 16.1 lbs

Pros and Cons ⊕ Lightweight ⊕ Comfortable ⊕ Relatively aerodynamic ⊗ The rider will feel more small bumps and vibrations at the saddle in comparison to the previous generation bike

The SuperSix Evo is Cannondale’s updated lightweight racer. It’s not quite as aerodynamic as the American brand’s aero-at-all-cost SystemSix or as smooth as the Synapse all-road bike, but it is far more comfortable, lighter, and still offers agile handling considering its extremely fast pace. Though this new iteration doesn’t represent the same performance leap as the first model, the upgrades to this version make the bike easier to work on and generally more aerodynamic.

Much of those aero gains are found at the front end. On the previous SuperSix, Cannondale made the well-intentioned decision to route the cables largely internally but in front of the headset bearings, which added bulk to an otherwise slim-tubed bike. It also limited just how much the bars could turn left or right. In the latest system, the cables are routed through the headset bearings using a triangular steerer tube. This allowed Cannondale to make the headtube area much more slender, making for a trimmer, more aerodynamic (and therefore faster), profile.

There are three different tiers of carbon frame construction within the SuperSix Evo family. Most riders will be happy with the standard carbon option, though the Hi-Mod and Lab71 frames are even lighter (and more expensive). We tested the SuperSix Evo Hi-Mod 2, which featured a Shimano Ultegra Di2 drivetrain, Hollowgram R-SL 50 wheels, and a Vision aero carbon handlebar. One small downside: in our 51-centimeter test model, we found the bike to be a touch less compliant at the saddle than the previous generation. Swap from the stock 25-millimeter tires to 28 millimeters or wider, however, and you’ll get one of the best fast road bikes you can buy today.

Read the Full Review

Best High-End Performance Race Bike

Specialized tarmac sl8.

$14,000 at Specialized

Test bike: Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL8 Dura-Ace Di2 Weight: 14.72 lbs

Pros and Cons ⊕ Energetic on the uphill ⊕ Stable on the downhill ⊗ Pricey

There’s no denying that there’s a lot of hype surrounding the Tarmac SL8 race bike —you’re just as likely to see it at the group ride as on your favorite influencer’s Instagram account—and we’re here to report that the hype is real.

The eighth generation of Specialized’s Tarmac comes with all the customary claims of being lighter, smoother, and stiffer. What makes this bike stand out from the competition is how it rides. Its low weight makes it feel eager up punchy climbs, and the frame’s stiffness provides direct, confidence-inspiring steering. As a whole, this bike will make you want to ride farther than you have before.

Specialized offers the Tarmac SL8 in an ultra-lux S-Works model (with their lightest-weight 12R carbon frame) and a range of build kits using a less expensive 10R carbon frame. Both are available in myriad drivetrain configurations from SRAM and Shimano and a range of colorways that we noticed invoked jealous commentary from cycling friends. While our test bike was a top-spec S-Works model—which nets a top-tier drivetrain and wheels alongside their best frameset—the standard Tarmac frames are still among the lightest road bike frames available.

All of this comes at a price—$14,000, to be exact, which is the biggest drawback to the new Tarmac. But if you’re willing to shell out, we recommend models with the less-costly 10R carbon frame, as it offers the same stiffness, compliance, and ride quality as the ultra-luxe S-Works. Those start at $6,500 and still net you a race-ready bike with electronic shifting. Trust us—your bank account will thank you.

Trek Domane AL

$1,700 at Trek

Test bike: Domane AL 4 Gen 4 (56 cm) Weight: 22.8 lbs

Pros and Cons ⊕ Extremely affordable ⊕ Versatile ⊗ Heavier compared to other options

The aluminum Trek Domane (pronounced ‘dough-MA-knee’) is the brand’s least expensive way to get into road cycling. It is also one of the most popular first road bikes out there, thanks in part to its ability to wear several hats. Some cyclists will use this endurance road bike as a swift recreational ride, while others might use it for commuting. For the fair price of $1,699, the iteration we recommend—the Domane AL 4—does both competently.

Much of the Domane’s long-time popularity comes thanks to a comfortable riding position, generous tire clearance, and predictable, composed handling. None of that changes in this iteration. While the Domane offers a choice between several carbon-framed builds, our recommendation is for the Domane AL (AL for its aluminum frame), which offers all of this capability in an unassuming and budget-friendly package.

The Domane is an endurance bike with geometry to match, placing the rider more upright than most road bikes, and ensuring the handling is approachable rather than aggressive. This makes the bike stable-feeling on fast downhills without feeling clunky on the climbs. The generous 38-millimeter tire clearance means you could reasonably ride gravel aboard the Domane AL as well. The touch points—the handlebars, the saddle, and even the bar tape—are high-quality and help the bike feel more than the sum of its parts.

Best Fast Road Race Bike

Scott foil rc pro.

$9,000 at Scott

Test bike: Foil RC Pro Weight: 15.9 lbs

Pros and Cons ⊕ Extremely confidence-inspiring at high speeds ⊗ Pricey and aggressive geometry make it a non-option for some cyclists

What goes up must come down, and going down is when we fell in love with the Foil RC, designed with the singular purpose of going fast. Not only is it stable and confidence-inspiring at the highest speeds, but it gives you enough feedback to feel the speed, too. Its one-piece bars and overall lateral stiffness deliver a responsive ride that makes you want to push harder on every bend of the descent. Its unique seat post provides the comfort of a thin seat post with the aero benefits of a deeper aero-foiled post. The benefit is that the bike rides so comfortably that we felt more confident more quickly than we did while riding many others while going that fast.

Aero bikes are normally heavier than other options, due largely to their larger tube shapes that optimize for aero efficiency first and low weight second. However, our medium-sized Scott Foil RC Pro was light enough that even our climbing-focused testers were happy with its uphill performance.

The Scott Foil RC features an aggressive fit and handling geometry, so it’s not for beginner cyclists. Further, while the Foil RC is less pricey than many other aero road bikes, its high performance comes at a cost. $4,799 nets you the bike itself. An upgrade to carbon wheels will cost you extra, which makes the Foil RC a worthwhile proposition for only a select few. But those riders will be treated with one of the fastest-feeling, confidence-inspiring race steeds available today.

Best Endurance/Performance Hybrid

Lauf uthald race wireless.

$4,690 at Lauf Cycles

Test bike: Uthald Race Wireless Weight: 17.5 lbs

Pros and Cons ⊕ A comfortable, high-value option that will work well for most cyclists ⊕ Easy to maintain ⊗ Out-of-the-box experience takes some getting used to

The Lauf Uthald is either an anomaly in the road bike world or a bike ahead of its time. Lauf calls it a “fast performance bike,” its spec sheet labels it an “endurance road bike,” and the overall package challenges several performance bike norms. Our verdict: The Uthald (Icelandic for “endurance”) is a versatile ride that would work for a wide swath of riders. First, the frame geometry makes it slightly slower to turn than the race bikes on this list and more settled in a straight line at speed. Further, its fit geometry isn’t quite as back-breaking as a race road bike, and not as upright as many endurance bikes. This makes it a great option for riders who want to ride long distances on the road without sacrificing comfort.

Lauf aimed to make the Uthald both versatile in its handling and easy to maintain for the end user, and they succeeded. The traditional stem and bar are easy to swap for fit; the threaded bottom bracket is easy to replace when it wears out; and the bike comes with a high-end but easy-to-fix SRAM Universal Derailleur Hanger (UDH).

As much as the bike’s geometry stands out, its value is what’s truly unique. A complete Lauf Uthald Weekend Warrior Wireless starts at $3,490 which nets you a Uthald frame, a carbon bar and seat post, and DT Swiss alloy wheels. The SRAM Rival AXS drivetrain with wireless electronic shifting does its job wonderfully and comes equipped with a power meter to boot. Overall, the Uthald is a hard-to-beat value proposition with some of the most sensible features on the market.

Best Versatile Aero Bike

Giant propel advanced sl 0.

$12,500 at Mike’s Bikes $12,500 at Giant

Test bike: Propel Advanced SL 0 Weight: 15.2 lbs

Pros and Cons ⊕ Some of the best aerodynamics we tested ⊕ Very light and stiff ⊗ Fully-internal cable routing makes fixes more difficult

Giant set out to improve the aerodynamic efficiency of the 2023 Propel while also making it more of an all-around performer. This bike is still intended to slice through the air, and makes use of truncated airfoil tube profiles everywhere it matters: namely, the down tube, seat testing tube, seatstays, head tube, and fork blades. However, the Propel also now strikes a much more svelte-looking profile that further blurs the lines between the all-out aero machine it’s supposed to be and semi-aero lightweights like Giant’s own TCR Advanced SL.

Even without wind-tunnel testing, it was clear from our first pedal stroke that the Propel Advanced SL 0 is a proper rocket ship. It’s easy to bring up to high speeds and requires less effort to hold them. During group rides, we inadvertently kept riding away from our buddies on non-aero road bikes.

Perhaps more important to everyday riders is how the Propel feels when going fast—it’s a glorious bike to ride. It’s tangibly light and stiff—not just for an aero bike, but for a good road bike, period. The Propel is a wonderful partner on long climbing days and when you feel inspired to attack steep pitches. Sharp stabs at the pedals are rewarded with quick bursts of speed with no hint of delay or hesitation. The handling is equally precise and responsive. It feels somewhat buzzy and electric, but without being harsh or unwelcoming like many other aero road bikes. It’s a veritable eager puppy, always up for another go and brimming with more energy than you.

There’s a smorgasbord of great choices in this category right now. If you’re after the ultimate aero gains, you’ll either have to head into a wind tunnel or do some instrumented on-road testing to find out which offers the most performance for your particular body. However, if you’re the type of roadie that wants to go fast without giving up much in the way of other performance aspects—such as comfort and handling—the Propel is an incredible machine.

Best Sequel

Cervelo soloist.

$6,800 at Backcountry $6,800 at Competitive Cyclist

Test bike: Soloist Ultegra Di2 Weight: 16.5 lbs

Pros and Cons ⊕ Precise handling ⊕ Exceptional power transfer ⊗ Harsh ride on bumpy roads

For 2023, Cervelo revived its game-changing Soloist franchise with an impressive list of updates and improvements that make for a compelling race bike at a fair price. The new Soloist is equipped with a completely redesigned frame, featuring a new carbon layup that has increased stiffness and reduced weight. The bike’s aerodynamics are also far better, with the incorporation of Cervelo’s latest Squoval Max tube shapes.

The cockpit includes Cervelo’s “externally integrated” two-piece handlebar and stem system, which provides a clean and aerodynamic cockpit but still allows tinkering—the cables run underneath the stem and through the headset bearings. It’s not perfect, but the system allowed for easy fit adjustments, and the ergonomic design of the bars provided a comfortable grip.

During testing, the Soloist proved to be incredibly responsive and fast. The bike’s new frame design made for exceptional power transfer, and the tube shapes minimized drag. The bike’s handling was also noteworthy, with precise cornering and stability at high speeds. One thing to note: while we expect a stiff ride from such a machine, it was notably harsh on less-than-perfect roads.

With its upgraded frame design and aerodynamics, the Soloist is a force, and one we’d happily toe a start line with. It might become the most popular Cervelo among self-funded racers for years to come.

What is the difference between a road bike and a gravel bike?

A road bike is designed first and foremost to be ridden on harder surfaces. That generally means roads and bike paths, but chip-sealed, cracked, and pothole-littered roads can be ridden in a pinch on a road bike, too.

A road bike will typically offer a lightweight frame, wheels, and components to match. Almost every road bike these days features a drop handlebar that curls from the top down, as it offers the rider several hand positions while riding. The tires are almost always narrow, typically ranging from 25 millimeters to 38 millimeters, and have essentially zero tread on them in the name of more efficient riding.

Road bikes don’t come with suspension, but they don’t need it for performance on pavement—modern road bikes are smoother and more comfortable to ride than ever. You’re likely not going to find suspension or even wider tires on a road bike, as that’s the territory of a gravel bike.

A gravel bike, which is designed for riding on dirt and gravel roads first, will prioritize grip and comfort for the seat and handlebars. It will do so at the expense of weight and speed on smooth roads and tarmac. Be sure to see our Best Gravel Bikes of 2024 guide for more information.

If you know you want to ride mostly on-road, and you don’t intend to carry any extra gear, then a road bike is the right choice. Choose the gravel bike if you know you want to ride predominantly gravel and dirt paths, or if you’re uncertain exactly where your riding will take you.

What type of road bike do I need?

There are two broad categories of road bikes: race road bikes and endurance road bikes. Each of those has subcategories that can quickly become confusing.

The type of road bike that is best for the majority of riders is an endurance road bike, occasionally called an all-road bike. An endurance road bike emphasizes comfort and approachable handling. They’re typically easier to manage as the speeds increase and offer up to 38 millimeters of tire clearance to smooth your ride. Further, they’re more likely to have mounts for fenders, racks, or even additional water bottle cages. All-road bikes offer as much as 40 millimeters of tire clearance but retain handling characteristics optimized for riding on roads.

The flashiest road bikes are typically race bikes. They’re more likely to place the rider in a lower, more aerodynamic body position that emphasizes speed over comfort. The frames are lighter and offer stiffer riding to help you go faster. Further, the handling is typically more responsive, sometimes bordering on twitchy. Race road bikes typically feature 25 to 28-millimeter-wide tires, and ditch any feature that doesn’t make the bike easier to ride quickly.

Not all race bikes are the same, however. Some are aero road bikes, which have deeper tubes and rims that prioritize aerodynamics and out-and-out speed. Others are called climbing bikes, which prioritize low weight and stiffness at the expense of aero efficiency.

How much do I need to spend on a road bike?

Most of the bikes we’ve tested qualify as high-end bikes, which can cost as much as a used car. However, there are some fantastic road bikes at a more affordable price point. Budgeting to buy a road bike isn’t just buying the frame. Getting the most out of your road bike requires having the right accessories. At a minimum, you’ll need a quality set of bike lights and a well-fitting helmet in the name of safety. Further, you’ll need to budget for a decent set of pedals, and matching shoes if you want to use clip-in style pedals rather than a more accessible flat pedal.

At the entry-level, one can expect to pay anything between $1,000 to $2,000, depending on what features the bike offers. Clothing, including a jersey, shorts, a helmet, and clip-in shoes can cost anything from $150 to $300. Those accessories we mentioned? Expect to pay $100 to 150 at a minimum, and more depending on your specific needs.

How do I choose the right size road bike?

Road bikes come in a range of sizes to fit riders of all heights. This size range is usually expressed in centimeters, though sometimes you’ll find an XS to XL range.

To figure out the correct size for you, go for a test ride. That means standing over the top tube of the bike (sometimes referred to as a crossbar) to see whether you can comfortably stand with both feet flat on the ground. The top tube can touch you, but the bike is a better fit if it doesn’t.

The right-size road bike will place your arms at roughly a 90-degree angle from your torso without feeling uncomfortable. Your knees will have a slight bend in them at the bottom of your pedal stroke. Most importantly, the bike will feel comfortable to maneuver around.

Of course, the best course of action is to go to a trusted bike shop to have a bike properly sized and fit. Having another set of eyes to help you find the correct size bike will ensure your money is well-spent. They’ll help you determine the right bike for you based on your riding experience, mobility, and needs, and they’ll help you determine proper sizing for features like handlebars, saddles, and even your frame.

• Number of Testers: 5
• Number of Bikes Tested : 42
• Longest Test Ride: 142 miles

Five dedicated riders from around the world put 42 bikes through their paces on varied terrain and across hundreds of collective miles—from west Texas to Steamboat Springs, Colorado to Glasgow, Scotland. The road bikes we tested—ranging from entry-level to ProTour worthy—were chosen to encapsulate the best range of bikes on the market today. Yes, we tested road bikes from all the major road bike brands, but we also tested the small brands to cover all bases.

Our test rides included local loops, big days out, group rides, and everything in between. After each ride, we asked each reviewer to judge a bike on the following criteria: Who is it best suited for, and what type of riding was it designed for? What were its strengths, what were its weaknesses, and was there anything that made it stand out above the competition? Every reviewer not only took the time to ride each bike to assess its performance but also built them out of the box and maintained them through weeks of testing to learn more about their ins and outs.

Alvin Holbrook is a tech editor for Velo. He’s been in the bike industry for almost a decade and covers road, gravel, and e-bikes. When he’s not geeking out over bike gear, he uses his background in urban planning to cover stories about active transportation, policy, tech, and infrastructure through the Urbanist Update series. He lives in San Antonio, Texas with his wife and an ever-growing stable of bikes and kitchen utensils.

• 2024 Gear Reviews
• 2024 Summer Gear Guide
• Road Biking

When you buy something using the retail links in our stories, we may earn a small commission. We do not accept money for editorial gear reviews. Read more about our policy.

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