trek domane sl5 2021 review

Review of Trek Domane SL 5: Carbon Road Bike for Endurance Rides

Trek Domane SL 5 is a step up from an entry-level carbon bike, featuring high-quality components and Trek’s patented IsoSpeed frame.

Trek’s Domane SL 5 carbon road bike features its unique 500 Series OCLV Carbon frame with front and rear IsoSpeed to absorb shock and reduce fatigue.

The IsoSpeed system is the result of years of research and development to create a frame with unprecedented comfort and maximum efficiency.

The Domane range of carbon road bikes is slightly heavier than typical carbon frame racing bikes due to the additional strength and comfort features.

These include thicker tires, heavier rims, and hydraulic brakes.

Trek Domane SL 5 Quick Overview

Main features, is the trek domane sl 5 the right choice for you, is it worth the money.

Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 is fitted with high-quality, lightweight components that complement its OCLV carbon frame.

This, coupled with IsoSpeed technology, makes for a surprisingly tight yet smooth ride. 

• Frame : 500 Series OCLV Carbon IsoSpeed
• Fork : Domane SL tapered carbon steerer
• Front Derailleur : Shimano 105, R7000
• Rear Derailleur : Shimano 105, R7000
• Rims : Bontrager Affinity Disc Tubeless Ready
• Number of Gears : 22
• Brakes : Shimano SM-RT70
• Tires : Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite, aramid bead, 700x32c
• Weight : 19.69 lbs / 8.93 kg

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Rather than just a well-equipped carbon frame bike, the Domane SL 5 fits together specific features to create a light and comfortable road bike that can also tackle rough terrain.

The carbon IsoSpeed frame is supported by a Shimano 105 groupset and hydraulic disc brakes.

IsoSpeed carbon frame

Trek’s IsoSpeed system features front and back decouplers with a rocker cup that allows flex in the seat tube and steerer tube.

This helps to provide a smooth ride without losing solid road contact and stability.

The frame uses optimized endurance geometry to give the rider a confident, controlled feeling in the saddle.

When it comes to carbon frames, its 500 Series OCLV is on the heavier side which is most noticeable on hills. However, it makes up for this but cutting through bumpy surfaces with ease.

Performance Cable Routing

The rear gearing and brake cables are internally routed through the bike’s carbon body, keeping the frame neat and clean.

This not only protects the cables but makes everything more attractive and aerodynamic.

Unfortunately, the front disc brake cabling is not routed through the fork, leaving a rather untidy zip-tie solution running down the left fork.

An odd choice for a road bike in this price range but it works just as well, albeit a bit less easy on the eye.

Shimano 105 groupset

Trek’s decision to use Shimano’s 105 groupset for the Domane SL 5 was an excellent choice and suits its high-quality carbon frame.

The complete Shimano groupset includes the shifters, chain, hydraulic brakes, front and rear derailleurs, and an 11-speed cassette.

The complete set works together to provide excellent, fault-proof mechanics and seamless operation that lets you focus on the road ahead.

Shimano 105 is one of the most reliable drivechains available and has been a firm favorite of cyclists around the world for decades.

The Domane SL 5 incorporates Bontrager Paradigm rims for their strong, durable nature.

Wrapped around the Domane SL 5’s Paradigm rims are Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite 700x32c tires.

The extra-large tires are an unusual choice for a carbon road bike, further solidifying its purpose as an all-terrain machine.

Endurance geometry

The endurance geometry used in the Domane range of road bikes is designed for long-distance rides, with a slightly higher headtube.

It attempts to balance speed and comfort, providing a more relaxed seating position than is commonly found on carbon racing bikes.

The sloping top tube reaches the seat post at an angle that makes it appear to move almost continuously into the seatstays.

The thicker-than-usual downtube also has an ever-so-slight bend that creates an appealing profile view.

It’s a marriage of technical perfection and high-quality materials to deliver a truly unique carbon frameset.

The Trek Domane SL 5 comes in 9 different sizes to fit heights of 4’11 to 6’2.

• 44 : 4’11” – 5’0″
• 47 : 5’0″ – 5’2″
• 50 : 5’2″ – 5’4″
• 52 : 5’4″ – 5’6″
• 54 : 5’6″ – 5’9″
• 56 : 5’9″ – 5’11”
• 58 : 5’11” – 6’1″
• 60 : 6’1″ – 6’3″
• 62 : 6’3″ – 6’5″

Trek’s Domane SL 5 is a serious carbon-framed road bike for dedicated riders looking to cover long distances on a regular basis.

It would suit semi-professional cyclists and triathletes looking to train regularly for competitions and events.

Sure, if you’re just a weekend rider and can afford it, you’ll love it.

However, a bike of this quality deserves to be put through its paces by those aiming for the podium.

It’s tough, fast, comparatively light, and most importantly: it provides a beautifully smooth ride.

Check out our other reviews on Domane AL 2 , AL3 , SL4 and SL6 .

Related:   Trek Bikes Explained – In-Depth Overview

High-quality carbon frame: check.

High-quality Shimano components: check.

A price tag under $3,500: check.

I would say, yes, the Trek Domane SL 5 is most certainly a piece of equipment that ticks all the right boxes to offer excellent value for money.

There are faster and lighter carbon road bikes in a similar price range, and there are tougher bikes too, but none of them find the balance quite as well as the Trek Domane SL 5 does.

This is a long-lasting bike that will seldom require any repairs or upgrades.

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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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The Trek Domane SL is a smooth-riding road bike – even an all-road bike – courtesy of IsoSpeed tech both front and rear, which helps it damp down small vibrations and bigger hits. It's not the lightest bike out there, but if ride quality is your main concern, it's a real contender.

First of all, a quick explanation of the bike we're reviewing. The Domane SL frameset arrived at road.cc built up with the new SRAM Rival eTap AXS groupset so that we could review those components too. It's not a standard build, but we've not reviewed the Domane SL before and thought we'd take the opportunity.

> Buy now: Trek Domane SL Disc frameset from Trek for £2200.00

Our 58cm bike, complete with Zipp 303S wheels set up tubeless with WTB Exposure 700 x 30mm tyres, weighs 8.82kg (19.4lb).

Trek does offer the Domane SL 6 eTap with a SRAM Rival eTap AXS groupset for £4,200, although this model is fitted with Bontrager Paradigm Comp 25 wheels.

Okay, on with the show...

IsoSpeed is the headline news here, so let's kick off with what it actually is. You can scroll down a few paragraphs if this is old news for you.

Trek first introduced IsoSpeed in 2012, although it has evolved since then. Rear IsoSpeed came first, decoupling the top of the seat tube from the rest of the frame. The aim is to take the edge off big hits and smooth out smaller vibrations by allowing a small amount of movement at the saddle, thereby keeping you feeling fresher for longer. That's the plan.

How does it do it? Although the seat tube is fixed to the bottom bracket area in the normal way, it isn't moulded to the top tube or seatstays. Instead the tubes are joined by a pivot, allowing the seat tube to flex more than would otherwise be possible.

Front IsoSpeed is a more recent introduction, the idea being greater compliance at the handlebar. Front IsoSpeed comes in the form of a rocker cup at the top of the headset that allows the fork's carbon steerer to flex backwards/forwards, but not from side to side.

Put another way, the upper section of the headset can tilt to take advantage of the inherent flex in the steerer, meaning the stem and handlebar can move slightly in response to rough roads. See? It's simpler than it sounds.

Best of three

The Domane frameset comes in three different flavours. At the entry level there's the Domane AL, with an aluminium frame. This one doesn't feature front or rear IsoSpeed although, a little confusingly, Trek does describe the carbon fork as IsoSpeed on the basis that the legs are designed to absorb vibration. Complete bike prices start at £695, although the cheapest disc brake model is £895.

At the top of the range there's the posh Domane SLR, which comes with front and (adjustable) rear IsoSpeed. Bikes are priced from £6,600.

In the middle you get the Domane SL bikes, which are made from a lower grade of carbon than the SLRs – Trek's 500 Series OCLV, rather than lighter and stiffer 700 Series OCLV. You get both front and rear IsoSpeed, neither of which is adjustable. That means you can't alter the setup according to the terrain but, on the other hand, it's simpler.

> road.cc Frameset of the Year 2020/21

The most accessible 2022 complete SL currently available is the Domane SL 6 eTap mentioned above, although the 2021 Domane SL4, with a mostly Shimano Tiagra groupset, is £2,325.

On the road

So the big question is: how much difference does the IsoSpeed technology make? Don't think that all this tech means the Domane SL feels unlike any other road bike you've ever ridden.

First of all, if you've ridden mountain bikes with loads of travel, IsoSpeed is nothing like that. Not even on the same page. Cast all thoughts of mountain bike suspension from your mind.

When you're riding on level, well-surfaced tarmac, IsoSpeed doesn't feel unusual at all, and even over rough roads it's subtle. In some ways it feels like running wide tyres at fairly low pressures... though in other ways it doesn't feel at all like that (I'll explain in a mo).

You get just a bit of movement to insulate you from what's going on beneath your wheels, and it's more noticeable at the saddle than the handlebar. Crack into a steep-edged pothole at warp speed and you still feel it – just slightly less than you otherwise would.

The main feature, though, isn't the protection from the big hits, it's the smoothing you get from the smaller stuff: little holes, manhole covers, drains, frost damage, badly patched tarmac, kerbs on and off the cycle path... you know, all those things you constantly encounter on a typical ride.

It would come in handy over cobbles too, although chances are you don't have too many of those around your way.

Again, IsoSpeed doesn't eliminate bumps and vibrations from any of this stuff, it just turns it all down a few notches. It's forgiving. The rougher the surface, the bigger the difference IsoSpeed makes. It's great on old, scuffed up tarmac and it's also pretty active on gravel roads although, naturally, the tyres make a big difference here.

> 19 of the best 2021 gravel bikes & adventure road bikes

The Domane takes a maximum size of 700 x 38mm. It isn't designed as a gravel bike – and most people would prefer something a bit wider for full-on gravel – but it's brilliant for short cuts to link up two sections of tarmac, for instance, and if you fancy riding gravel on 38mm tyres, well, you can fill yer boots.

I said above that IsoSpeed can feel like you have large, low pressure tyres – but not entirely. The big difference is that a big tyre can feel squishy and mushy when you put the power down, and that can be annoying on the road.

IsoSpeed doesn't feel like that at all. There's no extra bounce when you're out of the saddle, and no additional lateral movement. The front end tracks and steers well, with no nasty surprises when you bang it hard into a fast, downhill bend.

Speaking of surprises, the frame-integrated storage compartment is a natty addition. You flick a lever on the down tube – where the bottle cage attaches – to release a plate and access the space inside.

The cover has a multi-tool slot on the back, and Trek also offers a tool roll specifically designed to fit. It takes stuff like a CO2 canister and chuck, tyre levers, a spare tube, an emergency Snickers bar... you do carry an emergency Snickers bar, don't you?

Specialized does something similar on its Diverge gravel bikes, and while packing things in these cubbyholes is a bit of an art, it's a really handy addition for emergency essentials.

The Domane SL is relaxed by road bike standards. Trek calls it an endurance fit. I've been riding the 58cm model with a 54.8cm seat tube, a 56.7cm effective top tube, and a 19.5cm head tube. It's a tall bike with a 61.1cm stack height, while the reach is short at 38.0cm. That puts the stack/reach at 1.61 for this size.

Some people are going love how the ride position is more upright than a more speed-orientated bike's, such as Trek's Madone or Emonda, for instance, while others won't be down with it at all. It depends what you're after.

Trek says the current generation Domane is much more aero than previously – courtesy of truncated airfoil tube profiles – but there's only so far you can tweak your position, and that's always going to be more significant when it comes to drag. Personally, I can't see typical Domane SL buyers being over-concerned with aerodynamics, although I guess it all helps.

The brake hoses are exposed only between the ends of the handlebar tape and the front end of the top tube, just behind the stem, where they duck inside via a removable plate. This ensures a clean look and keeps them out of the wind.

As mentioned, the bike I've been riding has a SRAM Rival eTap AXS groupset so there are no shift cables/wires to worry about anyway, but if there were any, this is the only place you'll see those too.

Other features you need to know about include the adjustable seat mast that's particular to the Domane – held by an internal clamp accessed via a slot in the extended seatpost – and the T47 bottom bracket. Hooray for threaded BBs!

Mudguards? You can fit 'em easily enough. You get threaded holes on the fork legs (filled with itty bitty grub screws when not required) and another beneath the fork crown. You get more at the bottom of the seatstays, and fairly discreet mountings for a chainstay/mudguard bridge towards the top.

The only real downside to the Domane SL is that it's not particularly light. Trek claims a frame weight of 1,365g while, as mentioned, this complete bike came in at 8.82kg (19.4lb). Okay, the SRAM Rival eTap AXS isn't a lightweight groupset, but then a few hundred grams on the frame doesn't affect the ride as much as some people would have you believe.

The money bit

There aren't many road bikes designed to smooth the ride quite like the Domane. The most obvious rival is the Specialized Roubaix, which has Future Shock front suspension – a spring in a cartridge above the head tube that allows movement of the stem and handlebar.

The top-end Specialized S-Works Roubaix Team frameset is £3,700, but comparing prices with the second-tier Domane SL is unfair. Trek's flagship Domane SLR frameset is £3,500, so there's not a great deal in it.

The Domane SL keeps you comfortable thanks to relaxed geometry, front and rear IsoSpeed tech, and the ability to take tyres up to a whopping (by road bike standards) 38mm wide. It's as versatile as it is smooth, and if you want to mix up the surfaces you ride on while retaining plenty of speed, the Domane SL is a strong option.

Smooth endurance bike with loads of tyre space and masses of versatility

road.cc test report

Make and model: Trek Domane SL Disc frameset

Size tested: 58cm

Tell us what the frameset is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about the bike?

Trek says, "The lightweight Domane SL Disc Frame Set is built with 500 Series OCLV Carbon and includes road-smoothing Front and Rear IsoSpeed, so you can stay stronger for longer. This carbon endurance road frame is designed for flat-mount disc brakes, has a built-in storage compartment, and includes a headset and a Domane Disc full carbon fork."

Trek tells you everything you need to know about IsoSpeed over here: www.trekbikes.com/gb/en_GB/inside_trek/isospeed

Trek says, "IsoSpeed challenges the traditional design of a bicycle frame. Devoid of the more favoured approaches to the compliance quandary (such as suspension systems, elastomers or a vibration damper), IsoSpeed maintains the diamond-shaped frameset geometry but 'decouples" the seat tube from the top tube, allowing the seat tube to flex with the forces of the road. The result is a bike that moves with the road while maintaining the feel and efficiency of the traditional race bike design.

"One of the consistent pieces of feedback from riders that have enjoyed rear IsoSpeed was that even though they could plough unfazed through rougher roads than ever before, they could still feel the road shock through their arms from the front wheel. Our solution was to take everything that works from IsoSpeed and move it up the bike. The same technology that provides great compliance at the saddle now delivers compliance at the front end. Front IsoSpeed, located at the top of the headset, is captured in a rocker cup similar to rear IsoSpeed. This allows the steerer tube to flex, providing additional compliance at the front of the bike. The rocker cup of the upper steerer has zero lateral movement, allowing the bike to steer and handle with precision."

State the frame and fork material and method of construction

Frame: 500 Series OCLV Carbon, front and rear IsoSpeed, internal storage, tapered head tube, internal cable routing, 3S chain keeper, DuoTrap S-compatible, mudguard mounts, flat-mount disc, 142x12 mm thru-axle

Fork: Domane SL carbon, tapered carbon steerer, internal brake routing, mudguard mounts, flat-mount disc, 12x100 mm thru axle

Tell us about the build quality and finish of the frame and fork?

It's built to a very high standard.

Tell us about the geometry of the frame and fork?

Trek calls it an 'endurance fit,' and it's pretty relaxed by road bike standards. I've been riding the 58cm model with a 54.8cm seat tube, a 56.7cm effective top tube, and a 19.5cm head tube. It's a tall bike with a 61.1cm stack height, while the reach is short at 38.0cm. That puts the stack/reach at 1.61 for this size.

How was the bike in terms of height and reach? How did it compare to other bikes of the same stated size?

It's taller and shorter than an equivalent Madone or Emonda, say, putting you in a considerably more upright position.

Riding the bike

Was the bike comfortable to ride? Tell us how you felt about the ride quality.

Yeah, this is what the Domane is all about. It feels very comfortable courtesy of the front and rear IsoSpeed, and the ability to fit tyres up to 38mm wide. The relaxed geometry takes the strain off your back and neck, too.

Did the bike feel stiff in the right places? Did any part of the bike feel too stiff or too flexible?

The IsoSpeed tech allows up/down movement, but doesn't affect the lateral stiffness of the bike.

How did the bike transfer power? Did it feel efficient?

It feels pretty efficient, yes.

Was there any toe-clip overlap with the front wheel? If so was it a problem?

My shoe just missed 30mm tyres; there's a small amount of overlap with larger tyres.

How would you describe the steering? Was it lively neutral or unresponsive? It's pretty neutral

Tell us some more about the handling. How did the bike feel overall? Did it do particular things well or badly?

This is a bike that's more about stability and ride quality than sharp handling.

This isn't especially focused on accelerating or sprinting.

Your summary

How does the price compare to that of similar products in the market, including ones recently tested on road.cc?

The most obvious comparison is with the Specialized Roubaix, which has Future Shock front suspension – a spring in a cartridge above the head tube that allows movement of the stem and handlebar.

Did you enjoy riding the bike? Yes

Would you consider buying the bike? If ride quality was my highest priority, definitely

Would you recommend the bike to a friend? Yes

Use this box to explain your overall score

The performance is very good. Although the price is higher than many other road bikes, it's very good when you consider the tech that features here.

Overall rating: 8 /10

About the tester

Age: 48   Height: 190cm   Weight: 80kg

I usually ride:    My best bike is:

I've been riding for: Over 20 years   I ride: Most days   I would class myself as: Expert

I regularly do the following types of riding: commuting, club rides, sportives, general fitness riding,

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Mat has been in cycling media since 1996, on titles including BikeRadar, Total Bike, Total Mountain Bike, What Mountain Bike and Mountain Biking UK, and he has been editor of 220 Triathlon and Cycling Plus. Mat has been road.cc technical editor for over a decade, testing bikes, fettling the latest kit, and trying out the most up-to-the-minute clothing. We send him off around the world to get all the news from launches and shows too. He has won his category in Ironman UK 70.3 and finished on the podium in both marathons he has run. Mat is a Cambridge graduate who did a post-grad in magazine journalism, and he is a winner of the Cycling Media Award for Specialist Online Writer. Now over 50, he's riding road and gravel bikes most days for fun and fitness rather than training for competitions.

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£2,325 for a Tiagra equipped bike is having a laugh......

It's horses for courses. I had an SL5 disc with Vison 40mm carbon rims and 105 as standard a few years ago and tbh, it's a nice enough bike but I found it dull as dishwater...as did a couple of people I know who bought better and lesser versions of the same model year.

The person I sold mine to loved it however and boasted of smashing PB's. If you can I'd advise a test ride

How upright are we talking? Can you still stretch yourself out riding the drops?

SaintClarence27 wrote: How upright are we talking? Can you still stretch yourself out riding the drops?

More than likely, provided you get the correct size.

The only way to answer that is to sit on one. A decent substitute is to compare the geometry to a model you're familiar with.

It's certainly taller, but not that much shorter than an Emonda say.

I have both and they're setup within a couple of mm of each other

Latest Comments

My 6KU, replaced everything but the front chainring over the past 5 years.

This was a very good listing of bikes for under 1,000....

Radar tells me their closing speed, if they are slowing and how far away. Then I decide to say a prayer. The change of light pattern is incidental.

Quite so, which is why our village 20mph zone covers the whole residential extent. Of course, enforcement is another thing..

No, that's very doubtful while proper testing would be fully destructive.

What's wrong with dropping down on to the Millenium Bridge, or the swing bridge, then the brief, but satisfying climb back up the hill? #training....

The relatives might of course disagree, but in general I'd countenance a relatively light sentence* if only we could fix it so that those who...

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Trek Domane SL5

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Trek Domane SL 5

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Size / 44cm, 47cm, 50cm, 52cm, 54cm, 56cm, 58cm, 60cm, 62cm

At a glance

Where to buy.

Specifications

• Frame 500 Series OCLV Carbon, front & rear IsoSpeed, internal storage, tapered head tube, internal cable routing, 3S chain keeper, DuoTrap S compatible, fender mounts, flat mount disc, 142x12mm thru axle
• Fork Size: 44, 47, Domane SLR carbon, tapered carbon steerer, internal brake routing, fender mounts, flat mount disc, carbon dropouts, 12x100mm thru axle; Size: 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62, Domane SL carbon, tapered carbon steerer, internal brake routing, fender mounts, flat mount disc, 12x100mm thru axle
• Hubs Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, centerlock disc, Shimano 11-speed freehub, 142x12mm thru axle
• Wheels Bontrager Paradigm SL, Tubeless Ready, 24-hole, 21mm width, presta valve
• Tires Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite, Tubeless Ready, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 700x32c
• Chain Shimano 105 HG601, 11 speed
• Crank Size: 44, 47, Shimano 105 R7000, 50/34 (compact), 165mm length; Size: 50, 52, Shimano 105 R7000, 50/34 (compact), 170mm length; Size: 54, 56, Shimano 105 R7000, 50/34 (compact), 172.5mm length; Size: 58, 60, 62, Shimano 105 R7000, 50/34 (compact), 175mm length
• Bottom Bracket Praxis, T47 threaded, internal bearing
• Front Derailleur Shimano 105 R7000, braze-on
• Rear Derailleur Shimano 105 R7000, long cage, 34T max cog
• Shifters Size: 44, 47, 50, 52, Shimano 105 R7025, short-reach lever, 11 speed; Size: 54, 56, 58, 60, 62, Shimano 105 R7020, 11 speed
• Brakeset Hydraulic Disc
• Handlebar Size: 44, 47, Bontrager Comp VR-S, alloy, 31.8mm, 81mm reach, 118mm drop, 36cm width; Size: 50, Bontrager Comp VR-S, alloy, 31.8mm, 81mm reach, 118mm drop, 38cm width; Size: 52, Bontrager Comp VR-S, alloy, 31.8mm, 81mm reach, 118mm drop, 40cm width; Size: 54, 56, Bontrager Comp VR-C, alloy, 31.8mm, 100mm reach, 124mm drop, 42cm width; Size: 58, 60, 62, Bontrager Comp VR-C, alloy, 31.8mm, 100mm reach, 124mm drop, 44cm width
• Saddle Bontrager P3 Verse Comp, steel rails, 145mm width
• Seatpost Size: 44, 47, 50, 52, 54, 56, Bontrager carbon internal seatmast cap, integrated light mount, 20mm offset, short length; Size: 58, 60, 62, Bontrager carbon internal seatmast cap, integrated light mount, 20mm offset, tall length
• Stem Size: 44, Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 60mm length; Size: 47, Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 70mm length; Size: 50, Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 80mm length; Size: 52, 54, Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 90mm length; Size: 56, 58, Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 100mm length; Size: 60, 62, Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 110mm length

Q: How much is a 2022 Trek Domane SL 5?

A 2022 Trek Domane SL 5 is typically priced around $3,299 USD when new. Be sure to shop around for the best price, and also look to the used market for a great deal.

Q: Where to buy a 2022 Trek Domane SL 5?

The 2022 Trek Domane SL 5 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: What size 2022 Trek Domane SL 5 should I get?

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Is Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 A Perfect Selection? – [Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 Review]

Table of Contents

Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 Review

• Price: $3,499
• Frame: Carbon
• Tires: 700c Aluminum
• Gears: 2 × 11

What we like about it: It can effortlessly handle rough roads and long journeys, providing a smooth and aerodynamic ride.

What we don’t like about it:  The limited adjustability range of the seat post.

Rating: (4.9/5)

The Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 features a lightweight 500 Series OCLV carbon fiber frame and rear IsoSpeed, which absorbs road vibrations and ensures a comfortable ride. Its integrated bike seat enhances both its appearance and riding feel.

Now, let’s dive into the riding experience, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4. In the latter part of this article, we will also compare it with several other top bicycle models. If you’re interested in more bike reviews, stay tuned.

Riding Experience

The Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 offers a lightweight and responsive riding experience, with high-performance components and generous 38c tire clearance. This allows me to tackle almost any road, from smooth asphalt to gravel paths.

For this review, I took the Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 on a spontaneous ride through the countryside, starting with mostly flat and open roads. As I progressed, I encountered some unpaved gravel roads, providing an opportunity to test the bike’s capabilities.

Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 On the Road

As soon as I hopped on the Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4, I was impressed by its responsive pedaling feedback. The lightweight and robust 500 Series OCLV carbon fiber frame contributed to the bike’s agility and speed. The integrated design of the entire bike frame made it even more aerodynamic, allowing me to pick up speed.

When I desired a faster pace, the Shimano 105 2×11 drivetrain provided silky-smooth shifting and efficient power transfer. By increasing my pedaling cadence, I effortlessly achieved higher speeds. The bike’s excellent geometry also made it easier to maintain a forward-leaning riding posture while climbing, maximizing power output. Combined with the ample gear options, I adjusted the rear derailleur to a larger freewheel, making pedaling feel light and energy-efficient when tackling uphill sections.

After conquering the climbs, and facing a long downhill stretch, I took advantage of inertia and barely needed to pedal to maintain high speeds. The Shimano 105 hydraulic disc brakes, on the other hand, offered strong and reliable stopping power. A gentle squeeze was all it took to apply ample braking force, ensuring safety and stability during downhill rides.

Gravel Riding

The Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 also proved to be a capable gravel bike. Towards the end of my ride, I encountered a stretch of gravel road.

Thanks to the carbon fiber frame, front fork, and rear IsoSpeed design, the bike absorbed road vibrations, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride.

The 700c wheels demonstrated excellent rolling capability, allowing me to effortlessly navigate over minor gravel obstacles. The 700x32c tires, in my opinion, were sufficient for handling these gravel sections. However, if you still have concerns, the Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 supports a 38c tire clearance, which should alleviate any worries.

Specifications

The Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 offers a smooth, aerodynamic, and comfortable ride. Its lightweight 500 Series OCLV carbon fiber frame, combined with the rear IsoSpeed design, eliminates road vibrations and reduces rider fatigue.

The bike is available in 7 frame sizes, catering to riders with heights ranging from 4’11” to 6’2″. It covers a wide range of rider heights, making it suitable for a diverse audience.

It features the reliable Shimano 105 drivetrain, known for its smooth shifting. Additionally, the Shimano 105 hydraulic disc brakes provide all-weather stopping power, remaining dependable even in adverse conditions.

Finally, the down tube houses a convenient internal storage space for essential riding items, making it suitable for long-distance rides. Additionally, the generous 38c tire clearance allows you to ride on nearly any road surface, from asphalt to gravel.

What do we like about it?

• IsoSpeed technology and up to 38mm tire clearance absorb road fatigue and provide a smoother, more comfortable riding experience.
• Wireless 2×11 Shimano 105 drivetrain, offering excellent reliability for entry-level professional components.
• It is versatile and smooth, suitable for long rides on open roads, gravel riding, and racing.
• The internal storage compartment in the down tube offers a multifunctional space for riders to store tools and cycling gear.
• The new frame design reduces weight and offers higher riding speeds with an updated Kammtail tube shape.
• The stable endurance geometry ensures comfort on long rides while maintaining the speed of a racing bike.

What don’t we like about it?

• The limited adjustability range of the seat post.
• What is the rider weight limit for this bike?

The rider weight limit is 275 pounds, which is the standard limit for other Trek road bikes.

• Can this bike accommodate gravel tires?

It can accommodate 38mm gravel tires.

• How do I choose the right size?

These sizes are general guidelines, and the best way to find your perfect size may vary from person to person. The easiest way to determine your size is to go for a test ride.

Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 Specs

C omparison t able, trek domane sl 5 gen 4 vs. trek domane sl 6 gen 3.

Comparing these two bikes, the latter features a higher-level Shimano Ultegra R8000 drivetrain compared to the former, which comes equipped with Shimano 105 components. Therefore, the shifting and transmission efficiency will be slightly better on the latter.

Regarding braking performance, both of these bicycles offer reliable and trustworthy braking capabilities. However, the latter has a higher-level component, which primarily translates to improved operation.

So, between these two bikes, the Trek Domane SL 6 Gen 3 appears more like an upgraded version of the Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4, and you can choose based on your budget.

Learn More: Is Trek Domane SL 5 Worth Buying? [Trek Domane SL 5 Review]

Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 vs. Liv Avail Advanced 2

In terms of geometry, the former has a more aggressive design, suitable for higher riding speeds. Meanwhile, the latter features a geometry more akin to a mountain bike, giving it better off-road riding capabilities.

As for the drivetrain, both bikes use Shimano 105 components, ensuring smooth gear shifting and excellent transmission efficiency. In the braking department, both provide reliable and powerful braking, offering riders peace of mind. However, the latter has components of a slightly higher level, which translates to better operation.

Ultimately, between these two bikes, you can choose based on your preference for the type of riding terrain you favor.

Learn More: Is Liv Avail Advanced 2 Worth Buying? – [Liv Avail Advanced 2 Review]

Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 vs. BMC Roadmachine FIVE

In terms of frame design, the former offers more detailed features. For instance, the IsoSpeed technology and the storage space on the downtube enhance the overall riding experience.

However, when it comes to drivetrain components, both bikes use Shimano 105 drivetrain components. The latter, however, features an electronic version with more gear options and easier daily adjustments. On the other hand, the mechanical version of the former is lighter in weight.

Finally, the former has slightly wider tire sizes, making it suitable for riding on more varied road surfaces and providing a more comfortable riding experience. The latter has lower rolling resistance, resulting in higher riding speeds.

So, between these two bikes, if you’re looking for a faster riding experience, the BMC Roadmachine FIVE is the better choice. Conversely, the Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 offers better overall riding capabilities.

Learn More: Is BMC Roadmachine X Two Worth Buying? [BMC Roadmachine X Two Review]

Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 vs. 2022 Bianchi Impulso – GRX 810

When comparing these two bikes, the latter is undoubtedly more of a pure gravel bike.

In terms of the drivetrain, the former uses Shimano 105 road bike components, offering better drivetrain efficiency. However, the latter is equipped with Shimano GRX 800 gravel bike-specific components, making it more robust and durable.

Furthermore, regarding the geometry, the former has a more aggressive riding posture, allowing for faster riding speeds. In contrast, the latter has a looser geometry, which makes it better suited for handling complex road surfaces.

In summary, the Bianchi Impulso – GRX 810 excels in off-road riding capabilities and is more suitable for gravel biking, while the Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4 offers higher riding speeds.

Learn More: Is Bianchi Impulso Pro – Ekar A Great Bike? [Bianchi Impulso Pro – Ekar 1x13ps Review]

The above is my review of the Trek Domane SL 5 Gen 4. In our opinion, it is a versatile endurance bike that handles various road surfaces with ease, which is why we gave it a rating of 4.9.

Of course, if you want to learn about other endurance bikes, we also review many bikes of various price ranges, and we find them all quite interesting. We welcome you to check out our related tests.

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• Rider Notes

2021 Trek Domane SL 5

A carbon frame endurance bike with upper mid-range components and hydraulic disc brakes.

For This Bike

View more similar bikes →

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.

Domane SL 5

Similar Bikes

(descending)

Add custom gearing

Based on build material and quality level of the frame, fork, wheelset, groupset, suspension system, and more.

163cm – 169cm

167cm – 175cm

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179cm – 186cm

184cm – 190cm

• 183cm, size 56cm, Just right

Oct 2022 · James Spender

The Domane is a tremendously smooth bike thanks to Trek’s IsoSpeed rear damping system and high volume, 32mm tubeless tyres

Over-engineered

Read Review

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

Sep 2022 · William Tracy

Simplified IsoSpeed headlines a lighter and faster version of the endurance bike built for Roubaix.

Oct 2021 · Ben Delaney

Lizzie Deignan (Trek-Segafredo) rode off the front of the peloton on the pavé and into the history books on Saturday, winning the first ever Paris-Roubaix Femmes aboard a Trek Domane with some custom touches. Deignan said her solo attack was definitely not the team plan, but that once she had a gap, she just kept … Continued

Jul 2021 · Mat Brett

Smooth-riding endurance bike with loads of tyre space and masses of versatility

Smooth ride

Space for big tyres

Internal storage

Not especially light

Jan 2021 · Dave Rome

Trek's new entry-level road bike combines an endurance fit with sporty handling and a whole bunch of versatility.

Huge tyre clearance, unique geometry is great for the purpose, quite comfortable ride quality, easy to service and upgrade, rides lighter than it feels to pick up, Shimano Tiagra just works, rim width, quality thru-axles.

Basic and heavy frame, making the bike tubeless requires new tyres and a handful of parts, extremely heavy wheels (especially given the bike’s price), handlebar drop shape is too compact.

Jul 2020 · Terry McKall

Entry level road bike or weekday commuter? How about both

You don't have to spend a fortune to get a great looking road bike with a ton of features. Trek's new Domane AL Disc is definitely worth a look.

Last updated April 6 Not listed for 12 days

Trek Domane vs Specialized Roubaix: Which Is The Best Endurance Road Bike?

In this post I’m going to compare the Trek Domane with the Specialized Roubaix. Which, if you’ve stumbled upon this post by accident and you’ve missed the tone of things round here, are both road bikes.

I’ll give an overview of the range of bikes available within each of these model families. I’ll also look at the particular features that are specific to the bikes, particularly in the area of comfort and ride smoothening.

This is part of a series of posts I’m writing, comparing the road bikes stables of these two large US bike manufacturers, Trek and Specialized. If you haven’t already, you should check out my introductory post on the subject .

Whilst other posts in this series (will) deal with aero bikes, lighter climbing bikes and gravel bikes, this one is really about my specialist subject (sort of): the bike for the older, more comfort-seeking gent.

Or ‘endurance road bike’, as the cycling industry seems set on calling it.

Why I Might Be Biased

I own a Trek Domane (a 4.3, which I bought in 2013). I really like it.

So much so that I just took it back to the frame, cleaned all the components, bought some new bits and then put it all back together:

I do therefore have an affinity towards it, and Trek in general.

That said, I would  really  like a Roubaix (or any high-end Specialized road bike), so I can’t see me being particularly negative about it, or the company as a whole, as I write this post.

Drool mode… engaged:

Bikes Mentioned In This Post

Er, this isn’t going to come as much of a shock…

• Specialized Roubaix – click here to visit the Specialized website to see the full range
• Trek Domane – click here to see the Domane at Trek

Note: this post contains affiliate links. If you click and buy something, I get a commission.

It’s All In The (Brand) Positioning

Trek and Specialized, pretty early on, both identified that the sort of bike frame that might suit the amateur MAMIL (more relaxed geometry; a bike that soaks up bumps in the road; a more upright riding position, all else being equal) was similar to that used by the pros in the more arduous cobbled classics races (sort of: the pros still use an aggressive riding position).

Thusly, with a bit of smart branding, we could buy a bike altogether more suited to our riding needs and low levels of flexibility whilst still pretending that we had a race-ready riding rig.

If Fabian Cancellara was riding the Domane and Tom Boonen the Roubaix whilst battling it out on the  Carrefour de l’Arbre  in the early 2010s, who could question the pro pedigree of our choice of bike?

Fabian Cancellara's farewell Paris-Roubaix Trek Domane SLR | https://t.co/U3YFUhcXU6 https://t.co/DizNSUTTvt pic.twitter.com/0GX0kKRfur — Cyclingnews (@Cyclingnewsfeed) April 8, 2016

In fact, in the pro world, there is probably less of a gap between ‘endurance’ and ‘race’ bikes these days.

The early and middle parts of races are generally being ridden with more intensity, so race management is much more about reducing fatigue going into the later stages.

Increasing rider comfort on the bike can help with this, and this is being reflected in pro bike geometry, riding positions and tyre choices.

Professionals still look better on a bike than us mere mortals though.

Trek (You Say) Domane

Trek’s endurance bike is the Domane. No one seems to know how to pronounce the word.

Whilst sort of looking French, it’s made up. It’s an anagram of Madone (the name of Trek’s aero road bike, as well as an infamous climb near Nice).

If I were in Trek’s marketing department, I’d say it the same way you pronounce ‘domain’ in English. As I’m not, it seems to be ‘doe-ma-knee’ (emphasis on the ‘ma’).

I Am A Very Happy Domane Owner

You can  read my ‘review’ of my Domane 4.3 here . That was written years ago (I’m thinking of doing an update in video form). Here’s a photo from the archives:

I bought the bike back in July 2013 as part of an extensive overhaul of my whole bike setup ( new bike, new bike fit, new pedals, new shoes ). It hasn’t disappointed. It’s still going strong.

One of the reasons for getting the Domane (in addition to trying to fool myself that I’m a pro Spring classics rider) was that if it was designed to be robust enough for the Roubaix cobbles, then it must be capable of dealing with the Derbyshire potholes. This reasoning has played out.

My Domane has been subject to a good amount of (road surface based) abuse. I’ve upgraded the wheels (to these Campagnolo Zondas ) but the stock ones (Bontrager) held up well.

Is That Frame Broken (Fire Up The Isospeed Decoupler)?

The most innovative feature of the Domane is the fact that the top tube doesn’t actually connect to the seat post. Which sounds like a recipe for disaster.

In truth the tubes do connect. They’re just not fused together (is that what they do with carbon fibre? ‘bonded’ maybe). Instead, there is an ‘Isospeed Decoupler’ linking the two.

This bracket allows the seat tube to flex (a bit) over its full length, rather than being held in place where it meets the top tube. This limited amount of ‘give’ reduces vibration and that brittle jarring you get when riding over rough surfaces.

And ‘rough surfaces’ is essentially the lot of the British MAMIL in his home environment.

All this vibration damping and flexing at one of the key rider contact points aims to reduce (unnecessary) fatigue over the course of the ride, so the rider is fresh enough to contest the selection, when it comes. Or in my case, to allow me to finish a ride (hopefully).

Upgrades To The Original Domane

My Trek Domane features the first generation of Isospeed ride cushioning.

Subsequent models have seen a number of iterations of the rear ride dampening technology.

In addition to making the joint more sleek, for the higher end SLR models, Trek has given riders the ability to adjust the amount of flex in the seat tube via moving a slider, initially on the seat tube itself and, most recently, underneath the top tube.

The original rear Isospeed was introduced for the derrière. Since then, Trek has brought in a front Isospeed for your…. arrière?

The front Isospeed is located at the top of the headseat, allowing for (again, limited) flex in the steerer tube, reducing the road noise that riders feel through their arms.

Trek describes the headset as sitting in a rocker cup. This allows front and back movement in the steerer tube, but no lateral movement. Which is probably a good thing if you want to avoid riding into hedges.

You can  read more about the whole Isospeed caboodle on the Trek website  (if you should so desire…).

Other Things That Have Changed Since 2013…

Whilst the UK legislative agenda may have ground to a halt, we’ve at least had the ‘disc brake revolution’.

All Domanes these days come with disc brakes only. No rim brakes allowed (other than on the aluminium version, the AL, but thats essentially a different bike for a different blog post).

With great (disc brakes) power comes great responsibility (tyre clearance). I recall when I bought my Domane, much fanfare was made about its ability to handle wider tyres. That was something like 28cm.

The most recent generation of Domanes can take up to a 38cm width. They’ll be fitting it with front and rear suspension next. Oh, wait…

Next, the latest generation of Domanes have a hole (deliberately) in the down tube which provides an internal storage compartment for tools and, say, a CO2 cartridge.

And what’s this?

The Trek Domane No Longer Uses A Press Fit Bottom Bracket!

That’s right. The BB90 press fit bottom bracket that is apparently hated by everyone (but which I enjoyed learning how to fit in this video) has been replaced with a T47 threaded bottom bracket.

Mechanics everywhere will rejoice. Monty will stand around looking vacant.

(Whilst he’s looking vacant, let’s move on to the Specialized Roubaix)

Roubaix Roubaix Roubaix Roubay (Ooo-oo-ooo-oo)

Specialized’s endurance bike model is, as mentioned, the Roubaix. It featured on the short list of bikes I considered back in 2013.

Roubaix is a town in northern France famous historically for producing wool and textiles. It was chosen as a model name by Specialized to fit in with its strategy of choosing industrial names for bikes, like the Tarmac.

(I’m very tempted just to stop here…)

Sure, there’s a famous bike race each year that finishes in the Roubaix velodrome. Famous for traversing 29 cobbled sectors ( proper  cobbles). Famous for testing riders and their bikes to the limit. And being called ‘the Hell of the North’.

So Specialized probably named the Roubaix after that. Sure sure sure.

Does The Specialized Roubaix Have Suspension?

At the time I was looking at buying a Roubaix, Specialized tackled the whole ‘quasi-suspension’ thing by integrating ‘Zertz’ inserts into the seat stays and the fork.

These plastic (okay, ‘viscoelastic polymer’) dampeners purported to absorb vibrations that would otherwise pass unhindered into the rider’s butt-oxe and hands.

Specialized adopts a similar principle to the comfort features of the Domane. Logic as follows:

• Vibrations lead to fatigue.
• Fatigue leads to tiredness.
• Tiredness leads to pain.
• Pain leads to anger. Anger leads to hate. Hate leads to… suffering.

Anygroad, Specialized have dispensed with Zertz in the most recent generations of Roubaix (Roubaiz?). Instead they do have an actual shock absorbing piston, with 20mm of travel, built into the head tube.

This feature, known as the ‘Future Shock’ gives (understandably) more vertical movement than the Zertz-based flexy-forks approach. This makes for a more comfortable rider experience in the ‘cockpit’ area of the bike.

Like Trek’s Isospeed feature (in the more expensive models), the Future Shock 2.0 used in bikes at the higher end of the Roubaix range can be adjusted to control the amount of dampening.

Towards the bottom end of the range (Roubaix Comp and below), the Future Shock 1.5 is used, which does not have the adjustment knob (it still has 20mm of travel though).

Does The Specialized Roubaix Have Rear Suspension?

In short, no.

Distinct from the Domane, the Roubaix provides no mechanical ‘comfort features’ around the seat tube and chain stays. Your butt-oxe will no longer be cossetted. Many apologies.

That said, all of the models come with the S-Works Pave seatpost (there you go – a little bit of S-Works bling, even at the low end of the range).

Specialized states that the Pave is the ‘first compliant seatpost that’s aerodynamic’ and without any ‘contraptions’ (surely a dig at Trek?). More flex has been built into upper part of the seat post (quite what ‘more flex’ is relative to isn’t stated).

Anyhoo, at least Specialized are thinking about these things, so it’ll be better than nothing.

The Specialized Roubaix Range

The aim of this section is to give an overview of the Specialized Roubaix range so you can quickly triangulate between the name (Sport, Comp, etc), the price and the high level spec.

For more detail you’ll want to check out the Specalized website (also the range differs slightly between the US and the UK).

Roubaix Sport

• Cost: £2,750 / $2,900
• Frame: FACT 10R
• Suspension: Future shock 1.5
• Colour scheme options: 2
• Components: Shimano 105 R7000 (11 speed) other than Praxis Alba crankset (compact)
• Wheels: DT Swiss R470

Roubaix Comp

• Cost: £3,500 / $3,600
• Components: Shimano Ultegra R8000; compact 11 speed; clutch rear derailleur RX800

Roubaix Expert

• Cost: £4,750 / $6,000 (no idea why the US price is so high relative to the UK)
• Colour scheme options: 1
• Suspension: Future shock 2.0
• Components: Shimano Ultegra R8000 Di2; compact 11-speed; clutch rear derailleur RX805 (Di2)

Roubaix Pro

• Cost: £6,600 / $6,700
• Suspension: Future Shock 2.0
• Components: SRAM Force eTAP with RED etap rear derailleur; 12 speed; compact (46/33t)
• Wheels: Rovel Alpinist CL

S-Works Roubaix – SRAM Red eTAP AXS

• Cost: £10,500
• Frame: FACT 11R
• Components: SRAM RED eTAP AXS 12-speed with power meter
• Wheels: Rovel Alpinist CLX

S-Works Roubaix – Sagan Collection

• Cost: £10,069
• Components: Dura-Ace Di2 11-speed with dual-sided powermeter
• Wheels: Rovel Rapide CLX

The Trek Domane Range

Oof, there are a lot of variants of the Domane available, making them difficult to summarise without this post descending into a turdpile of tedium*.

(* Ha ha, yes, I see, you already think it’s a tur…)

Again, you’ll want to check out the full range at the Trek website:

At the top end you have the SLR series of bikes, all of which use Trek’s highest quality OCLV 700 Series carbon frame (something to do with the quality of the carbon layup…).

Then you have a few sub-variants:

• SLR 6 – mechanical Ultegra / Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V wheels – $6,800 / £5,500
• SLR 7 – electronic Ultegra Di2 / Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V wheels – $7,800-8,300 / £6,350-6,900
• SLR 7 eTap – wireless electronic SRAM Force eTap AXS / Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V wheels – $8,500-8,800 / £7,000
• SLR 9 – electronic Dura-Ace Di2 / Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37 wheels – $12,000 / £10,000
• SLR 9 etap – wireless electronic SRAM RED eTap AXS / Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37 wheels – $12,000 / £10,100

In case you’re wondering, the prices ranges for the two SLR 7 variants is because there appears to be a ‘standard’ colour scheme for each one (lower price) and then a few colour options that are built to order (higher price)

The SLs all have the OCLV 500 series frame. Not as high spec as the 700 but designed to be lightweight, strong and stiff (but aren’t they all…).

• SL 4 – mix of Shimano Tiagra and Praxis / Bontrager Affinity Disc wheels – $2,400 / £2,100
• SL 5 – Shimano 105 / Bontrager Affinity Disc wheels – $2,900 / £2,550
• SL 6 – mechanical Ultegra / Bontrager Paradigm Comp wheels – $3,800 / £3,350
• SL 7 – electronic Ultegra Di2 / Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V wheels – $6,000 / £5,100
• SL 7 eTap – wireless electronic SRAM Force eTap AXS / Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V wheels – $6,200 / £5,650

In case it’s not obvious (it really isn’t), you can transmogrify between the SLR and SL ranges to see that the number 7, say, corresponds to a spec featuring Ultegra Di2 and Aeolus Pro 3V wheels.

I’ll save the electric and aluminium versions of the Domane for other blog posts.

Is There A Trek Domane Women’s Bike?

Actually, yes. And no. Mainly no.

Trek used to do a higher end women’s version of the Domane. Now they are saying that for all new Domane SLRs and SLs, they’re producing frame sizes down to 44cm (i.e. small). So there should be an option that fits every rider, whether they are man, woman or squirrel.

As an aside, there are two new AL (aluminium-framed) versions of the Domane that are described as ‘Women’s’. The frames do look slightly different to the equivalent men’s models (they’re a different colour at least) but the bumf on the website makes more of them being fitted with ‘women-specific’ saddles and handlebars than the geometry.

It’s Probably Worth Saying…

I’ve only ridden one Trek Domane (the one in my garage). The technology and ride feel has no doubt moved on. Similarly, I’ve never been lucky enough to try out a Specialized Roubaix.

This post from Bikeradar  provides a comparison based on their reviews of both bikes (albeit from previous generations of both bikes). And for an actual bike review, you’d like to think they’ve ridden them extensively…

Which Should You Buy?

Here I must disappoint. I’m going to sit on the (carbon fibre) fence.

I have really enjoyed riding my Trek Domane this past six years. Many readers of this blog found it by reading my original ‘review’ of the bike. Almost every comment or email I’ve received about it has been positive.

That said, I (obviously) covet a nice Specialized Roubaix. I’m sure it’s also an excellent choice.

So it looks like if you’re in the market for a new endurance bike (and no cyclist is truly out of the market for a new bike), you’ll have to test them both out. What a hassle…

Stay tuned for the next episode in this occasional Trek versus Specialized series.

In the meantime, do you own either the Domane or the Roubaix (or maybe both!)?

Let me know your views in the comments below.

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9 thoughts on “Trek Domane vs Specialized Roubaix: Which Is The Best Endurance Road Bike?”

Hello, At long last after38 years I have now switched from a vintage Koga Miyata Radonneur steel frame to Specialized Roubaix and I am amazed about the quality and smoothness of the ride. Yes, my steel steed was comfortable but some sections of tarmac roads we have here in Scotland are horrible, even on a steel bike. Imagine my astonishment when I rode the Roubaix (2016 model), Zipp Firecrest303 carbon wheels, on these roads and they just became smoother and less harsh. I always thought that carbon is harsh but in the right configuration it is marvelous, not to mention the nearly 9kg in weight saving.

I have a 2016 Specialized Roubaix SL4 Elite Disc, and it is the most comfortable bike I’ve ever ridden. When I was buying in 2016 I got my shortlist down to the Domane and Roubaix. Test rode both, and couldn’t separate them for ride quality and comfort. It eventually came down to price, with the Roubaix being £50 less. On saying that, I’m heading back to the ride quality of steel in a few weeks time, with a Mason Resolution 2 on order. So, if anybody fancies a well looked after Roubaix…? 😂

Thanks for the info. Im still riding my 2013 domane 500 series as well. But thinking it’s time for disc brakes. You didn’t mention electronic shifters either ! Maybe time for that info as well !

Have been following you for a while, always find you entertaining and informative. I wrote off my beloved 2015 domane disc in a ‘night time chain gang vs pothole’ incident (as well doing a number on my right wrist, which is now part bone, part titanium). ( I am now banned from night riding by SWMBO). Bought a Mason Definition 2 with Di2, based on the reviews and an hours ride from their base on the South Coast. But we’ve never ‘gelled’. It gives me neither the comfort nor the speed of the domane. It also feels quite harsh up front, which is not good for my often painful wrist, so the new domane is an itch I think I’ll have to scratch. Looking at a sale 2020 SL 7 with Force eTap and carbon wheels at a bargain price. Never had eTap, but the reviews are excellent. A little nervous as I adore Di2, but almost certainly going to pull the trigger once I’ve had a ride.

Hi Glenn – did you go for another Domane in the end?

Hello Glenn, could you share more about your “wrist?” I just purchased the 2021 Roubaix Sport, after returning from an almost 30-year hiatus and riding, again, my 40 year old, too-big-for-me Fuji Flair. Riding the new bike, I brake entirely too hard and have jolted myself to where I hurt my right wrist (I am right-handed). Thanks in advance for your time and attention.

I’ve ridden a Trek Domane 4.3 since 2013 and recently purchased the Domane SL5. I’ve found the post very low in comparison so have flipped the stem, which has made me more upright. The Arvada saddle for me is creating a lot of pressure compared to my Affinity (no longer available) saddle on my 4.3. I’m therefore changing this to a Trek Versa and hope this will alleviate the problem. Still love my 4.3 and hopefully will enjoy my new SL5 as much once it’s sorted to my liking. The SL5 is my 4th Trek with the pride of my collection being the SL8 full Dura Ace Emonda.

The Affinity saddle is available for a bargain basement price of $75 (carbon rails too). I picked one up for my Trek Fuel and it is the most comfortable saddle I have tried. Search “overstock” on trek’s website. https://www.trekbikes.com/us/en_US/equipment/cycling-components/factory-overstock/bontrager-affinity-pro-carbon-factory-overstock-bike-saddle/p/24630/?colorCode=white

I had the domane 4.3 for many years, great bike. Now I went for the domane sl7 2021 with di2. I love it!

I did my first bike race at 315km. What a comfort!

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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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Trek Domane SL6 review

IsoSpeed front- and rear-equipped sportive bike that's one of our Endurance Bike of the Year 2020 contenders

David Caudery / Immediate Media

Warren Rossiter

Ride quality, assured handling, smoothness throughout

It carries a bit more weight than its rivals

For 2020, the Trek Domane’s front and rear IsoSpeed suspension-equipped chassis has undergone a major overhaul. It's lost a little weight, gained further aero shaping and, now that the design is disc specific, it’s opened up tyre clearance to a massive 38c size.

The geometry's been tweaked too, to a short reach at 380mm, with a mid-height 611mm stack for a 58cm-sized endurance bike.

What hasn’t changed, though, is the key to the Domane’s continued success – its palmarès includes wins at Paris-Roubaix and the Tour of Flanders – and that’s the quality of the ride.

Bike of the Year 2020

The Trek Domane SL6 is part of our annual Bike of the Year test.

Head to our Bike of the Year hub for the full list of winners, categories and shortlisted bikes, as well as the latest reviews – or read our behind-the-scenes feature on how we tested Bike of the Year 2020 .

Trek Domane SL6 frame

At the heart of this is its IsoSpeed decoupler. Simply put, it maintains the diamond-shaped geometry but 'decouples' the seat tube from the top tube, allowing the seat tube to flex with the lay of the road.

Trek has done a great job in reshaping the Domane and the bike now looks super-clean with little in the way of exposed cables anywhere, adding to the aerodynamic appeal.

The front-end routes the cables under the bar and stem and around the steerer tube, entering the frame just behind the head tube in a similar fashion to how Cervélo routes cables on its long running S-Series aero bikes.

The new Domane frame also includes quite a neat little surprise under the down-tube bottle bosses. There you'll find a compartment with a quick-release lever with enough space to store a spare tube, C02 cartridge and multi-tool. Inside there’s also a custom-sized tool wrap to stop any rattles or shakes.

It’s a neat idea and one I really like because it keeps your jersey pockets free of stuff and the bike looks cleaner without a grubby, mud-splattered saddle pack.

Trek Domane SL6 kit

Trek’s choice to specify 32mm tyres is certainly at odds with most endurance bikes and elevates overall weight to the 9.5kg mark, which is more in line with a gravel bike than a road-ready rig.

However, the SL6 doesn’t feel heavy when you’re riding it and the R2 tyres are impressive, featuring durable all-weather tread and hard-case protection that covers the roughest ground smoothly – everything from roughly chipped tarmac to frost scarred lanes and even light gravel – which makes up for carrying a few hundred extra grams over its rivals.

I’ve been impressed by their grip and puncture protection too, during plenty of winter test miles.

They sit well (and wide) on the Paradigm Comp 25 wheels. The Paradigms have an alloy rim that’s seriously broad at 25mm wide internally, which shapes the R2 tyres with a smooth, constant radius that boosts confidence when cornering.

Those wheels are beautifully put together with a build comprising serviceable brass nipples that hold the aero-bladed spokes in place, while the Rapid-drive, 54-tooth rear picks up quickly and spins smoothly. At 1,775g, they're not the lightest wheels but they're damn tough.

Unfortunately, unlike the Paradigm wheels, the tyres aren’t tubeless-compatible, so should you want to get the benefits of an inner tube-free ride, more versatility on tyre pressure, the elimination of pinch punctures and an ever-widening range of tyre options in the larger sizes the Domane can handle, you’ll need to replace them.

Just like pretty much every bike out there in this price range, Ultegra is the order of the day and the kind-to-your-knees 50/34 gearing is matched to a wide 11-34 cassette.

This equipped me with a low enough gear to attack the steepest of inclines knowing that a one-to-one bottom gear was there in reserve.

Trek Domane SL6 ride impressions

In an ideal world, the Domane would be a little lighter because it doesn’t share the same sprightly upward momentum as its lightweight endurance rivals, such as Canyon’s Endurace or Cannondale’s Synapse, but it boils down to a trade-off between class-leading comfort or climbing prowess.

Downhill, though, the Domane is a supreme partner. The IsoSpeed-equipped chassis sits down and grips where plenty of bikes can skit and skip across the road surface, especially when the surface is less than ideal.

Paired with excellent Ultegra brakes and Ice-tech rotors, the SL6 is one of the most enjoyable descending companions out there.

The Domane’s handling feels very stable and, despite that short 380mm reach and mid-height 611mm stack, doesn’t feel cramped or particularly upright or pedestrian. It’s just a very good place to spend lots of hours in the saddle.

Trek Domane SL6 overall

The SL6 has a huge amount going for it. The ride quality never fails to impress and it handles with assured stability without being dull.

If I was looking for a bike for a big challenge on sub-optimal roads then the Domane would be the first bike on that shortlist.

Trek Domane SL6 geometry

• Sizes (* tested): 44, 47, 50, 52, 54, 56, 58*, 60, 62cm
• Seat angle: 73 degrees
• Head angle: 72 degrees
• Chainstay: 42.5cm
• Seat tube: 54.8cm
• Top tube: 56.7cm
• Head tube: 19.5cm
• Fork offset: 4.8cm
• Bottom bracket drop: 7.8cm
• Wheelbase: 1,022mm
• Stack: 61.1cm
• Reach: 38cm

With thanks to...

BikeRadar would like to thank 100% , Q36.5 , Lazer , Garmin and Facom for their support during our Bike of the Year test.

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