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Review of Trek Domane AL 3: Endurance Road Bike for Long Days

A high-performance road bike perfect for long weekend training rides, group sportives, or amateur competitions.

Domane AL 3 serves as an ideal upgrade for those planning to take their cycling more seriously.

It could also work as a good starter bike although its price range is on the slightly higher end.

If you want to start extending your time in the saddle and do some longer rides while maintaining comfort, the Domane AL 3 will be a good fit.

It’s a quality piece of equipment for the price.

Trek Domane AL 3 Quick Overview

Trek domane al 3 sizes, is it worth the money, is the trek domane al 3 right choice for you.

Seasoned riders will immediately recognize the stability and build quality of the Trek Domane AL 3.

It’s a clear step up from your standard road bike, with higher-grade components and professional assembly.

It delivers a noticeably more competitive feeling than most bikes in its price range while keeping the geometry relaxed enough for a comfortable ride.

Overall, the Domane AL 3 feels like the perfect long-distance training bike for serious cyclists.

• Frame : 100 Series Alpha Aluminum, DuoTrap S compatible
• Fork : Domane Carbon, fender mounts, alloy steerer
• Front Derailleur : Shimano Sora R3000
• Rear Derailleur : Shimano Sora R3000, 9-Speed
• Number of Gears : 18
• Rear hub : Formula RX-142 alloy, 6-bolt, Shimano 11-speed freehub, 142x12mm thru axle
• Rims : Bontrager Affinity Disc or Bontrager Paradigm SL, both tubeless ready 24-hole, 21mm
• Tire Size : 700x32c
• Weight : 22.71 lbs / 10.30 kg

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The Trek Domane AL 3 is a slight upgrade from the AL2, with better quality Shimano components and lower overall weight.

It also benefits from Trek’s DuoTrap S compatible 100 Series Alpha aluminum frame and an IsoSpeed carbon fork.

Endurance geometry frame

The Domane AL 3 is built around Trek’s lightweight 100 Series Alpha aluminum frame to provide a stable and comfortable ride over long distances.

Built for endurance, the Series 100 Alpha frames are stiff and responsive, instilling confidence in the rider.

The top tube is angled just enough to put the rider in a strong forward position without being overly aggressive while the seat tube angle strikes a balance between power and comfort.

Frame sizes range from 44cm (women) to 61cm, so they should fit riders of almost any height.

The smallest 44cm model on the women’s Domane AL 3 has a 65.7cm standover height, with an 84.2 cm standover height on the largest unisex model.

Carbon Fork

Trek have complimented their fabulous 100 Series Alpha frame on the Domane AL 3 a carbon fork and headset.

The addition of a carbon fork helps to reduce weight and provide a much more comfortable ride.

Trek Domane’s carbon fork has a unique dropout placement to optimize the wheelbase combined with a tight rocker cup for precise placement. The slightly wider fork fits a 5x100m QR and includes convenient fender mounts for those wet-weather riders.

Shimano Sora Groupset

The Domane AL3 is fully kitted-out with Shimano’s Sora R3000 groupset which provides the derailleurs, shifters, chain, cassette, and cranks.

On the rear cassette, you have nine cogs ranging from 11T to 32T and on the front crank, a 50T, and 34T.

While Sora is one of the most widely-used Shimano gearing sets for road bikes and has been trusted for years, it would have been nice to see a Tiagra groupset on a bike of this price.

However, considering the high-performance frame and quality assurance that Trek provides, the overall package still offers good value for money.

Some gearheads might consider an upgrade but the Sora system works perfectly well in this instance.

DuoTrap S Compatibility

Trek’s own line of Bontrager DuoTrap S digital sensors offer some of the best data measuring tools available.

Forget strapping on clumsy sensors to your fork with zip ties, the DuoTrap S screws subtly to the inside of your chainstay and sends data wirelessly to your phone or bicycle computer.

The DuoTrap S supports both ANT+ 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth signals so you can send data to both your phone or a Trip 300 cycling computer.

Blendr Compatible Stem

Trek’s Blendr Stem which is part of its Bontrager components range provides a way to attach accessories securely to your handlebars.

The stem is compatible with a variety of Duo Base attachments that fit phones, lights, satnavs, computers, and cameras.

Rather than using up space on your handlebars by trying to squeeze in third-party attachments, the Blendr stem places your accessories directly into the handlebar stem.

The tight and secure attachment method ensures your devices are safe on even the roughest of terrain.

There are 7 sizes of Domane AL 3 available from riders 4’11” to 6’3″

• 44 : 4’11” – 5’0″
• 49 : 5’1″ – 5’4″
• 52 : 5’4″ – 5’6″
• 54 : 5’6″ – 5’9″
• 56 : 5’9″ – 5’11”
• 58 : 5’11” – 6’1″
• 61 : 6’1″ – 6’3″

The Trek Domane AL 3 is not the cheapest bike in the range of aluminum frame road bikes with Sora components.

If you aren’t picky about build quality and materials you could certainly find something cheaper.

However, unless you are willing to fork out the extra for a full carbon frame you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better bike at this price.

It’s incredibly lightweight for a non-carbon frame and carries the undisputable Trek stamp of quality.

Yes, for a similar price you could get a bike with disc brakes or a Tiagra groupset but you would be sacrificing on quality elsewhere.

Overall, the Trek Domane AL 3 delivers value for money.

Check out our other reviews on Trek Domane bikes : AL 2 , SL4 , SL 5 , SL6 .

Related:   Trek Bikes Explained – In-Depth Overview

It’s affordable while still offering everything a rider needs in a competitive road bike.

The Domane AL 3 is a good bike for that upcoming cyclist looking to go the distance and spend some serious time in the saddle.

Sure, it’ll do you fine for the occasional weekend ride but for the money you’ll want to get a decent amount of use out of this bike.

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6 thoughts on “ review of trek domane al 3: endurance road bike for long days ”.

Very useful review. At the time of this post, there are two more offerings in the Domane AL line: the Domane AL4 (upgrades shifting and adds hydraulic brakes) and the AL5.

I’m thinking of getting this for my first road bike; currently riding an Aventon Level.2 (electric) and Trek Verve 3. (hybrid) I’m thinking this would raise my average speed by at least 3 mph compared to the Verve 3. Verve 3 would then become my gravel bike.

I’m in decent shape, but got dropped immediately on a group ride last weekend, even by older riders. I could only keep up with the fatties on road bikes.

Hi Jeremy, thanks for your comment! You’re right, the Domane would definitely add at least 3 mph compared to the Verve 3 and likely more with a bit of structured training. Enjoy!

Brilliant article i have a giant rapid 2 2017, am looking at getting this one for sportifs, would this be an upgrade on my giant rapid which is a quick commuter

Thanks, Derek! The Domane would be a huge upgrade, you’d be riding much more efficiently and achieving a higher average speed.

Hi, I recently purchased a domane al3 and I am looking into purchasing an indoor trainer for it.. I am new to cycling and do not know a ton about indoor trainers.. do you know of a type/brand that fits this specific bike that you would recommend? Thanks, Sam

Hi Samantha, Here is a link to all our posts related to indoor trainers . You might find one that fits your needs.

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2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Disc Review

The 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Disc might just be the bike for you. But before you make a purchase, it’s important to know all the details about this bike.

Trek is a well-known brand in the cycling world, and the Domane AL 3 Disc is one of their latest models.

This bike is designed for riders who want a comfortable and versatile ride without breaking the bank. But does it live up to its promises?

In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Disc and evaluate its features, performance, and overall value.

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a beginner, this review will help you decide if this bike is the right choice for your needs.

The Trek Domane AL 3 Disc is a road bike that has been designed to provide a comfortable and efficient ride on long-distance journeys.

With advanced features and a sleek design, the 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Disc is a bike that is sure to impress riders of all skill levels.

The 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Disc is a high-quality road bike that provides a smooth and comfortable ride, thanks to its advanced features and components.

With a lightweight 100 Series Alpha Aluminum frame and carbon fork, this bike is built for speed and agility, while the Tektro mechanical disc brakes provide reliable stopping power in any weather condition.

– Lightweight 100 Series Alpha Aluminum frame with a carbon fork for a smooth ride.

– Tektro mechanical disc brakes for reliable stopping power in any weather condition.

– 2×9-speed Shimano Sora drivetrain featuring a 11-32t cassette and compact 50/34 chainrings for smooth and efficient shifting.

– Bontrager Paradigm SL wheels for a fast and stable ride.

– IsoSpeed technology for a more comfortable ride.

– Compatible with DuoTrap S for easy tracking of your ride data.

– Ideal for road riding, commuting, and fitness training.

– Fender and rack mounts for versatility.

Frame and Design

The 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Disc features a lightweight and durable aluminum frame that has been optimized for endurance riding.

The frame is designed to absorb road vibrations, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride even on rough terrain.

The bike also features a carbon fiber fork featuring IsoSpeed tech that further enhances the bike’s ability to absorb shocks and vibrations.

The 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Disc comes equipped with a 2×9 Shimano Sora groupset that provides smooth and precise shifting through the 11-32t cassette and 50/34 compact crankset.

The bike also features Tektro mechanical disc brakes that provide excellent stopping power, even in wet conditions.

The bike’s wheels are Bontrager Paradigm SL wheels wrapped in Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite 700x32mm tires that provide a stable and responsive ride.

One of the standout features of the 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Disc is its comfort.

The bike features an IsoSpeed fork that allows it to absorb more road vibrations.

The bike also features a Bontrager Verse Comp saddle that is designed to provide comfort and support on long rides.

Performance

The 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Disc is a bike that is designed for performance.

The bike’s lightweight frame and components allow it to accelerate quickly and maintain speed on flat roads.

The bike’s disc brakes provide excellent stopping power, allowing riders to descend hills with confidence.

Overall, the 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Disc is an excellent road bike that is designed for endurance riding. With advanced features and a sleek design, the bike is sure to impress riders of all skill levels.

If you’re in the market for a new road bike, the 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Disc is definitely worth considering.

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

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Trek Domane AL 3 Gen 3

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Size / 44cm, 49cm, 52cm, 54cm, 56cm, 58cm, 61cm

At a glance

Where to buy.

Specifications

• Frame 100 Series Alpha Aluminum, tapered head tube, internal routing, fender mounts, DuoTrap S compatible, flat mount disc, 142x12mm thru axle
• Fork Domane AL carbon, tapered alloy steerer, internal brake routing, fender mounts, flat mount disc, 12x100mm thru axle
• Hubs Formula RX-142 alloy, 6-bolt, Shimano 11-speed freehub, 142x12mm thru axle
• Wheels Size: 44, 49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 61, Bontrager Paradigm SL, Tubeless Ready, 24-hole, 21mm width, Presta valve; Size: 44, 49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 61, Bontrager Affinity Disc, Tubeless Ready, 24-hole, 21mm width, Presta valve; Size: 44, 49, 52, 54, 56, 58, 61, Bontrager Paradigm, Tubeless Ready, 24-hole, 21mm width, Presta valve
• Spokes 14g stainless steel, black
• Tires Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite, wire bead, 60 tpi, 700x32mm
• Chain Shimano Sora HG53, 9 speed
• Crank Size: 44, Shimano Sora R3000, 50/34 (compact), 165mm length; Size: 49, 52, 54, Shimano Sora R3000, 50/34 (compact), 170mm length; Size: 56, 58, 61, Shimano Sora R3000, 50/34 (compact), 175mm length
• Bottom Bracket Shimano RS500, 68mm, threaded external
• Front Derailleur Shimano Sora R3000, 31.8mm clamp
• Rear Derailleur Shimano Sora R3000, mid cage, 34T max cog
• Shifters Shimano Sora R3000, 9 speed
• Brakeset Tektro C550 mechanical disc brake, dual piston, flat mount, 160mm rotor
• Handlebar Size: 44, 49, 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, 61, Bontrager Comp VR-C, alloy, 31.8mm, 100mm reach, 124mm drop, 44cm width
• Saddle Size: 44, 49, 52, Bontrager Verse Comp, steel rails, 155mm width; Size: 54, 56, 58, 61, Bontrager Verse Comp, steel rails, 145mm width
• Seatpost Size: 44, 49, Bontrager Comp, 6061 alloy, 27.2mm, 8mm offset, 250mm length; Size: 52, 54, 56, 58, 61, Bontrager Comp, 6061 alloy, 27.2mm, 8mm offset, 330mm length
• Stem Size: 44, Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 70mm length; Size: 49, 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: 61, Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 110mm length
• Headset FSA Integrated, sealed cartridge bearing, 1-1/8'' top, 1.5'' bottom

Q: How much is a 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Gen 3?

A 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Gen 3 is typically priced around $1,449 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 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Gen 3?

The 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Gen 3 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: What size 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Gen 3 should I get?

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

The ideal first road bike?

Steve Sayers / Our Media

Ashley Quinlan

Easy-going handling; entertaining when the effort goes in; slick drivetrain; lots of adaptability

Fully hydraulic disc brake upgrade will require full drivetrain swap-out; annoying saddle material

The Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4 is the cheapest model in the brand's new range.

On paper, it has a very similar specification to the very closely priced Specialized Allez and Cube Attain Pro, but the Domane AL focuses more on an endurance-type ride position and handling characteristics.

The bike even has one eye on traversing light gravel and comes with a full suite of fittings for the commuters and bikepackers among us.

The specification is on a par with the competition, and judicious upgrades (or spending a bit more from the outset) would extract more from the very capable frameset, just like those rivals.

All-in, though, the Domane AL 2 Gen 4 does just enough to claim the 2024 Bike of the Year budget bike award by a whisker.

The Trek Domane AL 2 is our Budget Road Bike of the Year for 2024

The Trek Domane AL 2 is our Budget Road Bike of the Year winner for 2024.

Head to our Road Bike of the Year announcement to find out why – and to see the rest of our winners. We'll also be publishing 54 reviews from our test – head to the Bike of the Year 2024 hub for more.

Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4 frame

The Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4 frame (in Trek’s naming protocol, the ‘2’ refers to the component spec level – see below for details on that) is the latest aluminium representation of the brand’s endurance road bike platform .

The frame is made using Trek's 100 Series Alpha aluminium, paired with a full-carbon fork.

This latest, fourth-generation frameset ensemble is said to weigh around 225g less than the previous-generation Domane AL .

Trek is guarded when it comes to exact claimed frame weights, but it’s fair to say that when the whole bike weighs 10.6kg, a few grams here or there isn’t the be-all and end-all – especially on a bike designed for cost-effective endurance road and light gravel riding duties.

The frame’s sloping top tube design, with slim seatstays, hints towards providing good levels of comfort, but the head tube is notable for its ‘muscular’ profile, which should promote good front-end stiffness and sharp handling.

The frame is certainly kitted out for long days in the saddle – it has mounts for full mudguards (including a removable seatstay bridge) and a pannier rack, plus Bento box mounting points on the top tube.

Tyre clearance is wide at 38mm (without mudguards), scratching the lower end of typical gravel tyre sizes.

Trek is notorious for its conservative tyre clearance estimates, and to my eyes there’s probably enough space for 40mm-wide rubber. That said, it’s worth sticking within the 38mm limit to preserve the bike’s warranty.

The frameset features full internal cable routing, and – impressively at this price point – features entry points at the headset, rather than where they’re commonly situated at the down tube and fork shoulder.

This creates a sleeker overall look to the frame, although it inevitably makes a mechanic’s job a little more complicated – and therefore potentially more costly – to perform maintenance.

The rear dropout and axle is compatible with SRAM’s Universal Derailleur Hanger standard, and the bottom bracket is designed around a BSA threaded design.

The frame accommodates a round 27.2mm seatpost.

Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4 geometry

The Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4’s geometry comes out of the endurance bike playbook.

On my size-58cm test bike, the 72-degree head tube angle is a degree slacker than a Specialized Allez’s (which itself has been eased recently), promoting steadier steering responses.

The seat tube angle, at 73 degrees, should pitch you over the bottom bracket more, in theory helping deliver efficient power transfer.

The wheelbase is long at 1,022mm, but the 425mm chainstays are identical to the Allez, which suggests Trek isn’t putting all of its emphasis on the Domane AL performing away from smooth tarmac.

The 611mm stack and 380mm reach should help prevent riders feeling overly stretched out, while a whopping 40mm of spacers are supplied, enabling riders to jack up the front end even higher, should they need to.

Notably, the standover height is only 796mm – more than two centimetres lower than either the Allez or Cube Attain Pro – which could represent a nod to practicality when it comes to swinging a leg over the bike for a daily commute.

Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4 build

The Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4 sports a latest-generation eight-speed Shimano Claris R2000 drivetrain, with a Claris-level RS200 crankset.

Unlike Specialized’s Allez, Trek has gone the ‘whole hog’ and specced a Shimano cassette and chain.

That said, the HG31 cassette is ported over from the Altus MTB line of components (and visually striking thanks to its black colour). The HG71 chain comes from the brand’s Acera MTB line.

Needless to say, both are compatible with Claris derailleurs and levers, while it’s unlikely to result in noticeable performance differences compared to Claris-level components, or, indeed, Specialized’s chosen SunRace and KMC swap-ins.

The 50/34T compact crankset and 11-32t cassette should offer all the gear range many will need on the road, albeit with a minimum of two-teeth jumps between sprockets (11-13-15-18-21-24-28-32) – the same as the Allez.

Trek has also specced Tektro C550 mechanical disc brakes , which feature two-piston actuation – closing the pads on the rotor on both sides simultaneously.

Properly set up and maintained, this should result in increased power, and more even wear compared to single-piston systems (which push one pad against the rotor and a static pad).

160mm Tektro 6-bolt rotors are used, attaching to Bontrager Paradigm SL wheels, which are tubeless-ready.

The rims are 21mm wide internally – equal to the latest alloy disc brake wheels, and ideal for supporting wider road or even gravel bike tyres .

Trek has specced 700x32c Bontrager R1 Hardcase Lite tyres, looking to extract the known benefits of wider tyres from the get-go (increased volume enables you to run lower pressures , increasing ride comfort and grip). I measured them at 33.2mm at 80psi (5.5 BAR).

These tyres aren’t tubeless-compatible, though, so to run a tubeless setup, a tyre upgrade will be required.

The finishing kit is all Trek or Bontrager (Trek’s sibling components brand), with an alloy stem, handlebar and seatpost.

The Bontrager Verse Short saddle is shorter and wider than average at this price, following the trend for short-nosed saddles on pricier road bikes.

At £1,050 / $1,199.99 / €1,199 / AU$1,999.99, the Domane AL 2 Gen 4 is priced on a par with the Specialized Allez in the US and Europe, but is £50 / AU$200 dearer in the UK and Australia, respectively.

The specs of both bikes are near enough identical on paper, so it’s hard to call a winner on spec alone.

The Cube Attain Pro costs only slightly more, but packs in a 9-speed Shimano Sora R3000 drivetrain, and snazzier-looking (albeit functionally identical) TRP brakes.

That said, the Cube’s smaller tyre clearance and narrower wheelset could be considered more limiting, to a degree.

Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4 ride impressions

The Domane AL 2 Gen 4 is the smoothest-riding contender of the 2024 Bike of the Year budget bike cohort, by a noticeable margin.

No doubt, much of this is down to the 32mm-wide tyres mounted to the 21mm-wide (internal) rims, but the frame also feels extremely composed when traversing broken tarmac.

As a bike to simply hop on and ride, it’s very forgiving, and didn’t require much adaptation of my riding style for me to feel confident pushing the limits of my modest talent when cornering.

The steering responses are stable, rather than sharp, but that’s more than likely a welcome thing if you’re looking for your first road bike, an easy-going commuter bike or a steady winter mile muncher.

Despite the relatively docile handling, I was impressed by how readily the Domane AL would accelerate when I put the effort in.

The geometry may be more endurance-focused than either the Specialized Allez or Cube Attain Pro, which meant I tended to spend more time anchored in the saddle. However, when I did rise up to give it the beans (or got in the drops and pushed the pedals harder), the reaction was surprising – grin-inducing, even.

This may come as a surprise to those who already own a bike with a higher-tier groupset, but Shimano Claris, while relatively gappy compared to groupsets with more gears, feels very efficient when clean and indexed properly. It's probably smoother than either of my own two bikes with slightly worn, dirty drivetrains (Shimano 105 R7100 Di2 and Dura-Ace R9100, for the record).

The downside with Claris is you’re locked into using mechanical disc brakes, or a hybrid system. With the benefit of having tested four mechanically equipped bikes with slightly differing cable routing here, they're a long way from offering the type of performance you expect from hydraulic brakes.

At this price point, such a specification is to be expected, though, and shouldn’t concern those not willing to spend significantly more money, or if you’re starting from ‘zero’ and just want to get going with road cycling.

As installed on the Domane AL, the Tektro C550 brakes performed slightly better here than on the Allez and Attain, which ostensibly have the same calipers.

This might be an indication of improved cable routing, but without being able to draw an average conclusion across multiple controlled installations, it’s impossible to be sure.

The frame can also route hydraulic hoses (as demonstrated by the £1,700 Domane AL 4 Gen 4, which has a 10-speed Tiagra 4700 groupset with hydraulic brakes). So this is a viable upgrade path if you’re willing to swap to a drivetrain with hydraulic-compatible levers.

This kind of upgrade would be worthwhile for many, in my view, because the frameset’s overall behaviour would indicate there’s plenty of potential to unlock.

Likewise, investing more from the get-go on the Domane AL 4 or 105 R7100-equipped AL 5 (£2,000) would also be sound decisions, if you have the cash.

In testing, the only mechanical issue I came across was uneven spoke tension in the front wheel – three spokes were less taut than the rest, resulting in a clearly audible ‘click’ sound, which occurred at the same point in the wheel’s rotation when in contact with the ground.

I still couldn’t produce any noticeable flex, though, unlike the similarly specced Specialized Allez rival’s wheels.

This was solved with some attention by a qualified mechanic, and didn’t rear its head again. Although never something you want to encounter, it isn’t necessarily a sign of a bigger problem with all Bontrager Paradigm SL wheels.

The finishing kit proved capable and adequate for the build, although the saddle surface material (as I also found on the Trek Emonda SL 5 Disc in 2022 ) wouldn’t always anchor me in place properly.

This brought about an odd (and annoying) ‘chattering’ sensation as it lost and gained grip under my weight on the outer fabric of my bib tights.

Budget Bike of the Year 2024 | How we tested

Our 2024 Budget Bike of the Year category bikes are all priced in the region of £800-£1,200, offering a snapshot of what ‘around a grand’ can buy a road bike rider in 2024.

Each bike was subjected to the same test routes I undertake for all my road bike testing – this means performance is assessed against each other, as well as higher-spec bikes I’ve tested previously. Combined, this offers a great opportunity to comment on relative value.

Recognising that upgrading is part and parcel of the enthusiast cycling experience, I also pay attention to how easy it would be to upgrade the bike to a significantly higher level.

A winner was arrived at following back-to-back testing, through the primary prism of a newcomer looking for their first road bike – or an established rider looking for a cost-effective new bike.

Our Budget Bike of the Year contenders

• Cube Attain Pro
• Specialized Allez E5
• Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4
• Vitus Razor Disc VR
• Pinnacle Laterite 2

Our sponsor MET helmets, for its help in making Bike of the Year 2024 happen.

Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4 bottom line

The Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4 could be many people’s ideal first road bike – easy to ride, with no notable performance issues for the £1,050 asking price.

Additionally, its practicality is undoubted, while easy-going handling and wide tyre clearance make it far more than a one-trick pony. There’s plenty of capacity for upgrading further down the line, too.

As it is, the need to swap the entire drivetrain to upgrade to a full hydraulic disc brake system is a potential problem further down the line. However, this is a criticism levelled equally at almost every budget road bike at this price point.

Leaving the small spoke tension and saddle niggles aside, however, the Domane AL 2 Gen 4, is an impressive entry-level performance road bike.

Bearing in mind its easy-going nature and modern ‘all-road’ design, it’s arguably the best option among a competitive field for newcomers to road cycling and plenty of others besides.

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Domane-compatible accessories

Whether you're riding solo, with a group, on smooth roads, or light gravel — here are the accessories you need to make sure your Domane is always ready.

Tips for commuting by bike

Eight tips for fun, stress-free bike commutes.

How to: Pump your tires

Setting your bike's tire pressure correctly will give you a more comfortable ride with better grip and handling. Even better, it can help prevent flats

How to wrap your handlebars

Tips, tricks, and insider knowledge to get a perfectly wrapped road bike handlebar every time you change your bar tape.

How to: Fix a flat tire

Flat? Fixed. Our simple how-to video will show you how to get back on two wheels in no time flat.

Product features

Premium alloy frame.

Every Domane AL Disc has a lightweight aluminum frame with internal cable routing and smooth welds for race-ready looks and performance.

Long-haul comfort

The endurance geometry, wide tires, and carbon fork keep you comfortable when you’re setting distance records.

High-value performance

Domane AL Disc is built in Trek's road race heritage, which means it's a road bike you won't outgrow as your rides get longer and faster.

Any road, any adventure

Disc brakes, extra tire clearance, and mounts for a rack and fenders give it the versatility for any all-road adventure.

Don’t forget your pedals

This bike doesn’t come with pedals because you’ll have a better time on your new bike if you choose your own. See the pedal guide to find the best pedals for your riding style. We recommend flats for versatility or clipless pedals for control and efficiency.

Road-ready gear

Deck out your Domane AL with our favorite compatible accessories

Blendr-compatible stem

Bontrager Blendr stem technology lets you clip your gear directly to the stem for clean looks, maximum user friendliness.

Endurance geometry

Performance. Stability. Victory. Trek endurance geometry is a triple threat, maximizing control, handling, and responsiveness through perfectly tuned rider weight bias.

IsoSpeed fork

It's a one-two punch: generous ride-tuned sweep and shape increases compliance for a smoother ride, and unique dropout placement optimizes the wheelbase.

Rack mounts

Going for a long ride? Rack mounts make carrying accessories a breeze.

Additional Tire Clearance

Additional tire clearance allows Domane to go where no road bike has gone before. Race, ride, explore.