trek domane slr 7 2020 review

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. How we test gear.

Trek’s Best Road Bike Ever Is the Third-Generation Domane SLR

Smooth, fast, and smart: The new Domane is everything a modern road bike should be.

The Takeaway: Higher performance, more features, more versatile: The third generation Domane is one of the best road bikes you can buy right now.

• Clearance for up to 38mm tires
• Internal storage system
• Improved aerodynamics save 12 watts
• 27 percent more compliant than the previous model

Price: $7,800 Weight: 18.9 lb. (54cm)

The third generation of Trek’s Domane is not just the best Domane, it is Trek’s best-ever road bike. And one of the best road bikes on the market right now.

Few bikes offer what the Domane SLR does: a bike that’s equal parts performance, comfort, practicality, and versatility. It’s more aerodynamic than the outgoing Domane (saving 12 watts at 4oKph) and takes at least a 38mm tire, and it has hidden fender mounts and sleek internal storage.

It has compliance-enhancing decouplers front and rear that work very well to improve both rider comfort and control, and that don’t detract from the bike’s pedaling efficiency or handling. The steering is light, and its handling precise, but with a mellower edge and more stability than a road-racing bike. That helps make it one of the best bikes on which to descend roads, as well as a capable all-road and light-gravel bike.

Style Road, All Road Material Carbon Tire clearance 38mm Drivetrain Shimano Ultegra Di2 Chainrings 34/50 Cassette 11-32 Brakes Shimano Ultegra Hydraulic Disc Wheels Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3v, tubeless ready, 25mm internal width Tires Bontrager 32 Hard-Case Lite, 32mm Handlebar Bontrager Pro IsoCore VR-CF Stem Bontrager Pro Saddle Bontrager Arvada

It is what a modern road bike should be: fast, crisp, useful, adaptable, and rider-friendly. The 32mm tires come stock on all but one model, a decision I couldn’t applaud more. Fat tires rule because they’re less prone to flats, can go more places, and don’t require you to dodge every groove and hole in the road. Not only do they ride smoother, Trek says its testing indicates they’re faster at speeds under 20mph (over 20 and the aero penalty takes over).

It is a touch heavy—it gains about 100 grams compared to the outgoing version—though it doesn’t ride that way. And it’s such a good and well-done bike, the extra weight seems worth it.

Trek Domane SLR 7

But if you’re a gram counter, know that the long-term review bike—a $7,800 Domane SLR 7 with Ultegra Di2 Carbon wheels and carbon handlebar—weighed just a touch under 19 pounds. That means the lower-end bikes will weigh even more. This new third-generation bike comes in 10 models priced from $2,300 to over $11k, plus the option to customize build and finish in Trek’s Project One program.

This is the bike most of us should ride. It’s entertainingly sharp and sporty, smooth, smart, and versatile enough for most forms of road riding—paved or gravel. And that’s why it’s one of the best bikes you can buy right now and why we chose it as the best bike of 2020.

Custom Options

There are 10 stock Domane models, but you can also customize in Trek’s Project One.

Big Clearance

The Domane officially fits 38mm tires. Unofficially, you can squeeze in 40s.

Now With Threads

The Domane uses a threaded T47 bottom bracket.

Flexy Tongue

The compliance of the rear IsoSpeed system is adjustable.

Burrito Carrier

Fit a repair kit and more inside the Domane’s down tube.

The 2020 Domane is the third generation of Trek’s venerable endurance—and race—frame. Jordan Roessingh, Trek’s global director or road product calls it “Our most versatile performance road bike ever,” which is the kind of thing you’d expect a person in his position to say. But it’s hard to argue with him when you look over the Domane’s details.

This system is up to 27 percent more compliant than the one found on the second-generation Domane, with a rubber elastomer providing damping to tame unwanted bounce. Compliance is pegged to frame size—larger bikes get stiffer IsoSpeed tongues, smaller bikes have softer tongues. Lower-grade Domane SL models continue to use the seat-tube adjustable IsoSpeed system from generation-two Domane models. This system does not have the size-specific tune or the damper.

The new Domane still uses Trek’s modified seatmast system—though the cap now fits inside the seat tube instead of over—with an internal binder for a sleeker look. The mast top comes in several lengths and two offsets.

Join Bicycling All Access for in-depth bike reviews

Most gen-three Domane models ship with 32mm tires. Bigger tires are more comfortable and offer better grip. And for most recreational riders, Roessingh says the 32mm tires are faster. According to Trek’s testing, says Roessingh, at speeds under 20mph, a 32mm is faster because it has less rolling resistance than a narrower tire. However, when speeds creep over 20mph, the aerodynamic hit of the bigger tire becomes a factor and begins to swamp the rolling resistance advantage of a wider tire.

The Domane can fit up to a 38mm tire with 4mm of clearance on all sides. That means you can shoehorn in a bigger tire—perhaps up to 40mm—though with less debris clearance. Like earlier versions, the new Domane has hidden fender mounts; with fenders, up to 35mm tires may be fitted.

Trek’s engineering elves managed to add a bit of free speed to the Domane by adding some aerodynamic features. Compared to the previous-generation frame, and with the same build, the new Domane saves about 12 watts at 40Kph (good for about one minute of time savings per hour). The aero gains are due to refined tube shapes, as well as new hose and housing routing.

The hose and housing routing is smart. The Domane’s front IsoSpeed system prevents Trek from stuffing hoses and housing along the fork steerer, a solution many other bikes employ. On the Domane, they enter the frame behind the headset, directed there by a simple hoop that clips into the faceplate of the bike’s Bontrager stem. The Domane is compatible with any bar and any stem, though only Bontrager stems work with the hose and housing hoop.

The Domane is the first bike to launch with Trek’s new internal storage system. It’s the same concept as Specialized’s SWAT box : Remove the panel under the bottle cage to access the inside of the down tube. Included with the bike is a cloth-covered organizer roll with spots for a tube, tire lever, Co2 cartridge, and inflator head. You can fit the organizer roll and a bit more—a few bars or gels, for example—though the amount of space varies with frame size. You can expect to see this system on more Trek models in the future.

Another new feature is a modified T47 bottom bracket system. Trek narrowed the width of the Domane’s BB shell by one millimeter (compared to the T47’s written standard) then added thicker flanges (a half millimeter on either side) to the BB itself. This gives the T47’s installation tool more material to bite on. Frankly, it’s a good modification: The standard T47 BB’s have very thin flanges and it’s easy to slip a tool when trying to install or remove one of the bottom brackets. Trek’s modification does not affect the system’s compatibility with cranks or bottom brackets.

Though an all-new frame in most ways, mainline Domane models carry forward the same endurance geometry. Through Trek’s Project One customization program, you can order a lower stack and longer-reach geometry that Trek calls H1.5.

The Domane Family

The new Domane line consists of 10 stock models priced from $2,400 to $11,299. All models have carbon frames and use disc brakes. If the stock builds don’t suit your needs, the new Domane is also in Trek’s Project One customizable-build-and-paint program. You can also purchase Domane frameset for $3,300.

There are two frame levels: SL with Trek’s 500-series carbon and SLR with 700-series carbon. SLR models get all the new features and are lighter. Lower-grade Domane SL models continue to use the seat-tube-adjustable IsoSpeed system from second-generation Domane models: This system does not have the size-specific tune or the damper.

Only SLR models get Bontrager’s IsoCore carbon bar which features a layer of vibration-damping material in the carbon. However, all models get IsoZone gel pads under the bar tape.

Following a growing trend, Trek did away with women’s-specific geometry and model designations in the new Domane line. Instead, the company added more sizes, more builds, and more color options to its mainline Domane models. So while Trek’s Domane WSD models go away, representatives argue that all riders get more options than before.

Some of the build adjustments from its women’s-specific models—shorter-reach and narrower bars, shorter stems, and shorter-reach brake levers—were incorporated into smaller sizes. The only thing not found in this new scheme are models that come stock with a women’s saddle. Buyers will need to work with their Trek retailer to get a saddle that suits their anatomy. I hope Trek retailers will swap for an equal-level Bontrager saddle at no charge.

Ride Impressions

I attended the Domane launch in Italy, where I had the opportunity to ride only a customized version of the Domane. Though it is possible to build the bike I rode through Project One (the price of the bike I rode would be approximately $11,600), it was not a mainline model with a stock build.

The day after Trek launched the new Domane, I received a Domane SLR 7 ($7,800 with black/silver finish) for long-term review. This model has Shimano Ultegra Di2 drivetrain (34/50 rings with 11-34 cassette) and brakes, Bontrager’s Aeolus Pro 3V tubeless-ready wheels, 32mm Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite tires, and a Bontrager IsoCore carbon bar.

On my scale, the Domane SLR 7 weighed 18.9 pounds (54cm). That’s not light for a nearly $8,000 carbon road bike in 2019. For comparison, my Cannondale SuperSix Evo Hi-Mod Disc Ultegra Di2 ($7,750) review bike weighs 17.1 pounds (54cm) with similar build, and a power meter. The Domane SLR 9 with the 28mm tires, higher-end wheels, and top-of-the-line drivetrain will be lighter than my review bike. But almost all other 2020 Domane models will likely weigh about 19 pounds or more.

The Domane has a lot of stuff going on; it’s the most feature-rich performance road bike you can buy right now. But adding stuff adds weight. Adding performance—aerodynamics, and compliance—can add weight. “The new [Domane] SLR and SL frames both gained about 100g when all the frame and hardware (IsoSpeed included) are rolled up,” said Roessingh.

But given how obsessive cyclists are about weight—despite constant reminders that weight isn’t a major influence on performance in most situations—if a brand is going to add weight, it better damn well pay off.

Based on my impressions of the Domane so far—ride and otherwise—it does. The weight is not a concern. Most important, it doesn’t ride heavy. The bike is quick and fast feeling; extremely stiff at the bottom bracket, with light and precise steering. On the steepest grades, yeah… it’s not as crisp and ethereal as a 13-pound climbing bike , but then it doesn’t feel like a 19-pound bike either. Before I knew its weight, I had it in my head that it weighed around 17.5 pounds—a typical weight for a bike with an Ultegra Di2 disc group.

But more significantly, the amount of time I spend on the type of grades where its weight might be noticeable or impactful is tiny. I suspect it’s the same for most riders who aren’t in the pro peloton.

And what you get for a bit of extra weight is Trek’s best road bike, and one of the best road, and more, bikes you can buy.

This is a stiff, quick, and high-performance bike. The steering is light and communicative, though not as fast as the typical road-racing bike. But the Domane also has a lot of BB drop (about 78mm, almost a centimeter more than a typical road bike), a bit longer chainstays (420mm), and a slightly stretched wheelbase. All of that gives it supreme stability.

On top of the geometry are the IsoSpeed decouplers, which not only add comfort to the rider but also help the rider stay centered on the bike and not bounced off line by bumps. And then there are the floaty and sticky 32mm tires. Friends, the Domane has been a great bike to descend with, but this new model puts it on a whole new plain. It descends like an anvil dropped from the ISS.

As much as I love to go downhill, I’m only a good, not great, descender on the road. But I’ve never felt more confident on the descents or had as much fun descending as I have on the Domane. Its limits are very high, but it’s also very communicative and very confidence-inspiring.

So, it rides great. But it’s also extremely smart and versatile.

I loved the SWAT box when Specialized launched it, and I love it here. It’s more, and more elegant, storage for your tools and spares and food. However, I have some worries about the integrity of the door. With a full bottle in the cage, there’s a concerning amount of flex and wobble in the door (Specialized’s doors are rock solid). I wonder how this will play out with tolerance drifts, and over the long haul. How will it hold up after a year of pounding? Time will tell, I suppose. And as much as it wobbled and flexed, it held firm and makes no noise. Trek’s representatives say they’ve tested the snot out of the system and its passed with flying colors. I hope it proves so reliable in the real world.

I also love the tire clearance. Swap the tires, and this is a good all-road or even gravel bike. Frankly, I think a lot of gravel bikes are over heavy and over slow. But a good set of mid-width gravel tires on this Domane and it’s a cracking machine for all but the most gnarly gravel roads. Put lighter skinnier tires on it, and it’s going to be a fast road bike (watch those pedals in the corners—the BB is LOW with smaller tires). I love that blend of road-race performance with all-road versatility.

I also love that the new Domane has aero touches (because improved aerodynamics are one of the few things that legitimately make you faster), that it doesn’t use a stupid or annoying proprietary bar and stem system, has fender mounts, and that Trek was able to give this bike so many features, and they made it look good.

Yes, it is a bit less sharp than a pure road-racing bike, and it might be a bit heavy, but then so am I. The Domane is a blend of versatility, practicality, and performance that no other bike currently offers. It’s the kind of bike we could all use in our life.

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. 

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

The Best Beach Cruisers for Leisurely Rides

The Best Hardtail Mountain Bikes

Best Hybrid Bikes You Can Buy Right Now

The 14 Best Road Bikes of 2024

The Best Commuter Bikes for Getting Around Town

The 10 Best Electric Bikes, Tested by Our Editors

These Folding Bikes Can Go Everywhere

Smoother and Faster: The New Pivot Switchblade

The Best Beginner Mountain Bikes

Reviewed: Colnago's Italian Made C68 Gravel

The 6 Best Kids’ Bikes in 2024

• Paraphernalia
• 2024 Official Tour de France Guide / AUS pre-orders
• 2024 Official Tour de France Guide / NZ pre-orders

Bike test: Trek Domane SLR 7 ‘Gen 4’ – covering some of the basics (part of a series)

The new Trek Domane was launched a few weeks ago. It’s a ‘road bike’ but don’t let that title limit your thinking. With clearance for up to 38mm tyres* and a list of other features, it will also serve you well on the gravel and other rough stuff…

– Part of an ongoing review by Rob Arnold

Review bike details

• Trek Domane SLR7 eTap with SRAM Force AXS and Bontrager Aeolus Pro 37 wheels
• Colour: Project One (‘Deep Smoke’ with spectrum logo)
• Cost: AUD$11,999
• For more: trekbikes.com

“The IsoSpeed system looks a bit more refined,” he said, and I nodded.

“It’s sealed a bit better,” explained Nash, who has worked on every generation of the Domane since it was launched 10 years ago. For the latest, there’s only one IsoSpeed on Gen 4, and it’s at the rear (rather than front and rear, as has been the case in the past) and, Nash adds: “There’s a cover that goes over everything which we haven’t had before.”

– Click the link below to watch the ‘Unboxing and workshop’ video of the Trek Domane. –

Perhaps I’ve benefitted from the IsoSpeed but it doesn’t scream out for attention. If it works, great. If it impacts the ride quality, it does so quietly and effectively.

The Trek/Bontrager site tells me this about the 32mm tyres and the Bontrager Aeolus Pro 37 wheels :

• Maximum pressure: 70psi
• Tubeless ready (phew, as that’s how they are fitted)
• Sealant volume: 45ml
• 37mm rim height
• 21mm internal rim width
• 28mm external rim width
• The wheels are “Warrantied for life”, with “no rider weight limit”

But I’m missing my punchline, because I went to find the recommended tyre pressure for my weight (as I’ve used online pressure calculators before with, for example,  Zipp wheels and Goodyear tyres , while Pirelli have a similar chart ) but Bontrager only lists maximum for these wheels: “ 70psi ”.

Yes, you can spend hours on this bike and not feel battered. The 32mm tyres, lower pressures, and perhaps the IsoSpeed contribute to that comfort factor. But, for me, knowing that my adventure in different locations didn’t have to end because of a gravel road (or rougher) gave me confidence to explore.

When I’m in Sydney I know where I can go without having to turn around because a road becomes a trail. But this bike took me around Wollongong for the week of the world championships and, later, the Sunshine Coast while on holidays, and more than once did I find myself on gravel and dirt… and it never bothered me.

Aero or add-ons

Much has been made of Domane’s new frame shape. The “Kammtail Virtual Foil (KVF) tube shaping and an all-new integrated cockpit for improved aerodynamics,” they say in the highlight summary in the launch documentation.

It’s what we’ve come to expect from Trek. Of course there are “improved aerodynamics” (and yes, Gen 4 is lighter and more comfortable… etc), but your intended use may vary.

The Domane frame hasn’t quite been subjected to the numerous drillings that the aluminium of the ideal bike-packing rig, the  Checkpoint ALR5  (another Trek review bike that I’ll tell you more about in the coming weeks) but it does respond to the market’s demand for accessories.

The range of road bikes…

With each Trek road bike launch the differences between the trio of offerings – Madone, Émonda and Domane – seems to diminish. The new Madone race bike is, of course, more aerodynamic (and more comfortable, and lighter). The latest Émonda is indeed lighter (and more comfortable, and more aero). And now the Domane is more comfortable… with aerodynamic and weight-saving advantages.

And so, we’re left to wonder: when will they all merge and become one?

The Ma-Ém-Do seems to be what Trek is striving for.

I’ve ridden them all over the years. I’m yet to try the new Madone (and supply chain issues continue to impact the first of the relaunched road bikes by Trek in 2022) but I do understand the benefits – and the intentions – of each in the range. Until now, the Domane has been the Trek bike I’ve ignored the most.

It’s a combination of elements that prompts my last statement and it relates to how this review bike handles external forces, like the road surface but, importantly, the wind.

At high speeds the Domane is a pleasure to ride, with its predictability a true asset. On steep downhills, even when there’s plenty of wind blowing, I’ve hit 80km/h or faster and the bike is stable; I feel like I’m in complete control. Not once have I had any cause for concern.

Stable in a range of situations

With 37mm rims, frame angles that are slightly more relaxed than I’m used to, and a fork that is practical (ie. offering tyre clearance) while also being attractive and aero, the Domane handles better in crosswinds than my Izalco Max. At high speed this bike sings and the wheels don’t get pushed around like others I’ve used recently.

When the bike was still in the workshop, Nash said he expected that the Domane would have a longer wheelbase than other road bikes (see comparison chart, below ).

There are several comments added to a couple of RIDE Media’s YouTube videos featuring the Domane where viewers have asked for more information about frame size. And it seems Trek’s site is steering customers towards larger-than-usual recommendations.

“I’m 5’9”,” writes Craig Whittle, “and Trek website is recommending the 56cm frame but all my bikes have been size 54.”

In response to Craig, Michal Waldner wrote: “This year I have purchased a Trek Emonda in size 54 despite Trek website recommending me size 56. I was able to try both sizes at my LBS and 54 fits me way better. I am also 5’9”.”

Similar sentiment has been sent in by others who are keen to find out more about sizing, and the recommendations from Trek (so far) have all been for a larger bike than what the potential customers have previously ridden.

It was stem length that stood out the most for me once the bike came off the workstand, and it wasn’t a visual cue. The first thing I noticed when I got on the bike was how short I felt.

My saddle was positioned the same distance behind the bottom bracket as I have on my bike, but the immediate urge was to stretch out more than I could with the 90mm supplied stem. This is mentioned in my first video review ( see below ).

At around the 25km mark of my second ride, I pulled into a carpark and nudged the saddle back only a few millimetres on the rails and, voilà ! Problem solved. I haven’t felt compromised on the Trek ever since. (Note: the supplied Bontrager Arvada Elite saddle measures 270mm tip to rear, while my Repente saddle is 280mm.)

Furthermore, with the slightly higher front end than my bike (Domane: 835mm vs Izalco Max: 820mm), we decided to build the review bike with the smallest of Trek’s supplied, integrated stem spacers. (You will also notice that, rather than the neat, Domane-specific top cap over the stem, there’s extra fork length and a round top cap… because, as this is a review bike, we left some wiggle room and didn’t cut the fork too short in case the eventual owner want a slightly higher position.)

Spending longer in the drops

When I ride, I tend to switch hand position regularly: on the hoods, in the drops, and on the tops. Of course, this depends on the conditions, but I’d say my most common hand position is on the hoods… at least that’s how it has been over the last two years during the drought of review bikes.

With the Domane’s slightly higher front, I am gravitating to the drops more and more.

It’s different to my bike in many ways, but I’m comfortable on this Domane.

This is an all-day bike. It is comfortable and it does feel fast. But for me the biggest selling point is just how stable it is. It is also very versatile, and a great solution for a bike that meets many of my desires for the kind of riding I’m doing in 2022. If I wanted pure speed, I might look elsewhere in the Trek catalogue but I’m confident the latest Domane will suit more riders than the race-orientated Madone.

Trek’s ‘climbing bike’, the Émonda, might be slightly lighter and have other benefits… but, in my appraisal, the new Domane is not just a great bike for all-day comfort. It is, quite simply, a great bike. And in 2022 it is the Trek road bike that I would put at the top of my wish list.

– By Rob Arnold

*Trek’s official tyre clearance recommendations: “38mm without mudguards, 35mm with mudguards”. Price quoted is correct in Australia as of October 2022.

More from RIDE Media on Instagram , Twitter , Facebook and YouTube .

• RWR Home Page
• Recent Posts
• Bike Reviews

2022 Trek Domane SLR 7 Review

• by Riding With Ryan (Official)

In this 2022 Trek Domane SLR 7 review I’ll share my 1,000 mile update since receiving the bike. I ordered this bike in 2021, and it was delivered right around the New Year. Thanks to a much warmer spring than expected, I’ve been able to put a lot of miles on this bike.

If you aren’t familiar, the Domane is Trek’s Endurance road bike. It’s made for brutally long and rough rides. The 2022 Domane SLR 7 includes Trek’s IsoSpeed technology, which acts as a suspension for your rigid frame road bike.

2022 Trek Domane SLR 7 Key Features

Weight – Endurance bikes are made for comfort so cyclists can last all day in the saddle. That typically makes them heavier. That’s not the case with the SLR 7 because it weighs just 18.5 pounds, or 8.4 kilograms. Most mid-level road bikes weigh around 20 pounds, so weight is one feature putting the SLR 7 in the super bike category.

I soSpeed – It’s crazy to think Trek was able to get this bike below 20 pounds considering the frame includes Trek’s tunable IsoSpeed. Typically a suspension adds weight, but according to Trek, there is no weight penalty from IsoSpeed.

Ultegra Di2 – Arguably, the best feature of the 2022 Trek Domane SLR 7 is the Shimano Ultegra Di2 groupset. The brake modulation with Shimano Ultegra hydraulic disc brakes feels amazing. The speed, reliability and accuracy of wireless shifting is remarkable.

Is Shimano Ultegra Di2 Worth It?

Having worked in a bike shop recently I’ve had the opportunity to ride bikes equipped with SRAM Red eTap AXS, as well as Shimano’s Dura Ace Di2. Of all the different groupsets I’ve been fortunate enough to ride, it is my opinion Shimano Ultegra Di2 is the best value in electronic shifting.

Anyone that has ridden with electronic shifting knows mechanical will be extinct one day. Nothing compares to the precision, accuracy, and quiet gear changes that electronic shifting gives you. It is by far the best experience I’ve had on a bike in terms of equipment. (My best riding experience is riding Going to the Sun Road in Glacier National Park.)

Ultegra Di2 is durable enough to go on a gravel bike, but lightweight enough you can put it on your climbing bike. The price point on Ultegra is great, marginally higher than the 105 lineup known for it’s incredible value. It is the most important feature in this Trek Domane SLR 7 review.

Trek Domane SLR 7 Accessories

This bike screams for new bar tape. The options within Project One were dreadful. Cyclists buying a high-end super bike like this probably already have a favorite bar tape. I love LizardSkins, and decided to add a bit of matching color, which is a first for me.

You get a great selection of saddles during the P1 experience, so this was the first road bike I didn’t have to immediately upgrade. Pedals on the other hand are still something manufacturers leave off bikes. It makes sense that pedals are not included. There is no standard cleat preference, even at the highest level of cycling, so manufacturers leave pedals off.

Much like bar tape, you probably already know what pedals you like. You splurged on an incredible bike, why not upgrade your pedals too. It’s a great opportunity to try Speedplay pedals, or SPD-SL.

The only other accessory I highly recommend is a flat kit for the downtube storage. The downtube storage is a cool feature and it would be a shame not to take advantage of it. I take a spare tube and Co2 cartridge in mine.

If you enjoyed this 2022 Trek Domane SLR 7 review, consider reading about these XXX cycling race shoes:

• Bontrager XXX Shoe Review

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Privacy Overview

Trek Domane SLR review

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

• Sign up to our newsletter Newsletter

Test bikes come and go here at Cycling Weekly, but the Trek Domane SLR was a bike that I kept coming back to throughout the summer between testing other models, long after I’d formed a definitive opinion on it and had finished making my notes. The ability to change the bike’s ride characteristics using a little slider on the side of the seat tube might sound gimmicky, but you can’t argue with performance. This is a bike with a rear end that can be compliant to smooth out rough roads, or stiff for efficient power transfer when riding in the saddle. This is complemented by technology at the front of the bike that while non-adjustable still manages to smooth out vibrations without detracting too much from a design geared towards racing. If you’re after a bike that will put you at the front of races and keep you comfortable on six, seven, eight-hour rides, then the Trek Domane SLR is hard to beat

Incredibly versatile

Comfortable on long rides

Great power transfer

Excellent wheels

Tyres cut easily

No adjustability on lower models

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

Over the last few years, the original Trek Domane has established itself as one of the leading endurance bikes on the market.

Now Trek has released a new model, with a standout feature that sets it apart from everything else available today.

The standout feature of the Trek Domane SLR is the adjustable rear IsoSpeed decoupler. In effect the bike has an extended seatpost that sits behind a cut out seat tube, with the two attached using a pivot bolt at the junction with the seatstays and the top tube, and a second bolt that also doubles as the bottom bottle cage bolt.

This apparently gives the new bike an adjustment range of 20 per cent of compliance. This means that the bike can go from being as stiff and relatively uncompliant as Trek’s other race bikes, the Madone and Emonda , to being up to 14 per cent more compliant than the old Domane .

Adjustment is done via a slider which runs between the two tubes: move the slider to the top to get a stiffer, less compliant ride similar to the Madone and Emonda, and move it to the bottom to get the most comfortable rider that the Trek Domane SLR can offer.

A similar IsoSpeed technology is used at the front, where the fork steerer tube is isolated, allowing it to rotate independently. This means a front end that is, according to Trek, 5-10 per cent more compliant than that of its predecessor.

Aside from IsoSpeed there are a number of extra comfort features built into the new Trek Domane SLR. First up are the IsoCore handlebars, which have a rubber compound woven into the carbon-fibre to dissipate road vibrations, meaning a claimed 24 per cent benefit over aluminium bars and 20 per cent benefit over standard carbon bars.

The bike also has a new IsoSpeed fork (with 12mm thru-axles on the disc brake versions), with the positioning of the dropouts apparently increasing compliance by 7 per cent compared to a standard road fork.

Other than the IsoSpeed technology, the Trek Domane SLR comes with a whole host of other features that come together to create what Trek reckons will be its most versatile road bike ever.

For all that talk of extra compliance and comfort, Trek has also redesigned the down tube of the new bike, giving it a curved look and making it wider, apparently meaning better power transfer.

Specification

Our Domane SLR test bike came with a top-end build that meant a Shimano Dura-Ace groupset with rim brakes rather than discs.

For those deciding whether to make the switch, there are a big selection of disc brake bikes throughout the Domane range, but it is good to see that Trek, unlike Specialized with its new Roubaix, is still giving customers a choice of which braking system to go with.

The wheels were a pair of tubeless-ready Bontrager Aeolus 3 clinchers topped with 28mm Bontrager R3 Hardcase Lite tyres. While the wheels were excellent, providing a fast yet comfortable ride, the tyres cut very easily and would be the first thing we would change.

I came to the Trek Domane SLR with two preconceptions; firstly that it is an endurance bike, and secondly that the slider was a gimmick. On both counts the bike proved me wrong.

The difference in the ride between having the slider at the top and having it at the bottom is profound. Move it all the way to the bottom and you get a super-comfortable endurance bike with a compliant rear end that is the equal of any other endurance bike on the market.

I’ve ridden this bike on the cobbles of Flanders , and with the slider at the bottom it was seriously smooth, while the IsoSpeed system at the front helped to keep my hands and wrists in decent shape, even while riding without gloves.

But move the slider and the Domane SLR is no longer an endurance bike. Back in Blighty, and with smoother roads and faster rides on the agenda, I moved the slider all the way to the top and turned it into an out-and-out race bike.

Power transfer through the bottom bracket and rear end is absolutely superb, with the bike rocketing along even with the 28mm tyres.

At the front, when sprinting I didn’t experience the handlebars bobbing up and down as expected, although I can’t claim to have fully pushed this to the limits as I’m a relatively light rider.

In practice I found myself generally setting the slider at its mid-point and leaving it there for most rides, but it’s always nice to have the option to switch things up or down to create a horse that will run well on any course.

How to ride the cobbles

I’m torn over the value on offer by the Trek Domane SLR. Seven thousand pounds is a lot of money to spend on a bike, but the Trek goes a long way to justifying that price tag with the ability to double up and perform just as well in a road race as it would on a 200km Audax over sketchy lanes.

My frustration is that the slider that makes this bike so versatile is only available on top-end Domanes — the most affordable bike with this technology costs £3,600 and comes with basic alloy wheels and second-tier Shimano Ultegra .

Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

Get The Leadout Newsletter

The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!

Henry Robertshaw began his time at Cycling Weekly working with the tech team, writing reviews, buying guides and appearing in videos advising on how to dress for the seasons. He later moved over to the news team, where his work focused on the professional peloton as well as legislation and provision for cycling. He's since moved his career in a new direction, with a role at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

The Slovenian has taken an early lead, but can he keep burning matches without emptying his box?

By Adam Becket Published 7 May 24

'It's nice to finally be able to ride like normal again,' says two-time Tour champion

By Tom Davidson Published 7 May 24

Demi Vollering's bike at the Vuelta Femenina appeared to be shod with an update on the Roval Rapide hoops

By Michelle Arthurs-Brennan Published 7 May 24

Useful links

• Tour de France
• Giro d'Italia
• Vuelta a España

Buyer's Guides

• Best road bikes
• Best gravel bikes
• Best smart turbo trainers
• Best cycling computers
• Editor's Choice
• Bike Reviews
• Component Reviews
• Clothing Reviews
• Contact Future's experts
• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Cookies policy
• Advertise with us

Cycling Weekly is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future Publishing Limited Quay House, The Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA. All rights reserved. England and Wales company registration number 2008885.

• MAGAZINE OFFERS
• BIKE INSURANCE
• Best Products
• Maintenance
• Accessories
• Long-Term Reviews
• BikeRadar Podcast
• First Look Friday
• Bike of the Week
• Tech Features
• Routes and Rides
• Bike Galleries
• BikeRadar Bargains
• Buyer's Guides
• Fitness & Training
• Sizing & Fit
• Mountain Biking UK
• Cycling Plus

Trek Domane SLR 7 review

Radical front- and rear-cushioned race machine

Immediate Media

Warren Rossiter

Compliance, comfort, handling and speed

Very little – though you’ll find it hard to resist fiddling with and big tyres may put off purists

Okay, this isn’t the full WorldTour-spec model, which is in short supply. But the new Domane promises to be one of the year’s most radical and compelling frames – and it’s not like a 7.58kg Ultegra Di2-equipped model is exactly slumming it.

• How the Trek Domane SLR just revolutionized road bike design
• New Trek Domane spotted under Fabian Cancellara

Trek’s original Domane was groundbreaking, with its IsoSpeed decoupler effectively creating a pivot in front of the junction of the seat tube and top tube. It worked too, offering a soft-tail-feel that smoothed bumps and damped vibrations.

Up-front damping

The new incarnation takes things a step further. IsoSpeed remains, but the pivot is now in line with the seat tube with the tube itself split, allowing the two halves to work independently. Even more radically, you can adjust the amount of flex the system offers using a slider that runs the whole length of the seat tube.

Trek claims that the new design delivers a 14% increase in vertical compliance over the previous model.

There are changes elsewhere too, with this Domane also featuring ‘Front IsoSpeed’. It’s a system that builds in float in the top section of the headset, which sounds, er, interesting, but Trek assures us that this has no effect on steering, handling or strength.

What it does deliver is a claimed 10% increase in vertical compliance. The final touch is the new ‘IsoCore’ bar, which retains the earlier bar’s elastomer pads but with the addition of thermoplastic elastomer layers to damp high-frequency vibrations.

Silky yet reponsive ride

We were expecting a soft and bouncy feel as a result of all these features, but what you actually get is a positive, rapid and responsive ride. At its shallowest setting the ride feels like the Madone’s, with just enough damping to keep road buzz at bay.

At the other end of the scale we expected the difference to be more marked, and the ride to be super-plush. When we hit cobbled roads and rutted, gravelly byways the system really does come into its own. Ramp up the speed and absolutely go for it over the worst surfaces and the SLR comes alive, easily matching speeds over the rough stuff that we’d only previously experienced on dedicated gravel machines.

The Domane’s ability to cope with the worst surfaces you can throw at it, and at speed, is truly stunning. And any doubts we had about the Front IsoSpeed were unfounded, with the steering feeling as direct as on its Emonda stablemate.

Bontrager’s tubeless-ready wheels have wide rims, and Trek has made the most of that by fitting fat 28mm tyres. They roll smoothly, are as fast as slimmer tyres and they grip superbly through corners. These contribute to limpet-like traction on descents, allowing you to confidently attack even the roughest corners, the twin-IsoSpeed setup never getting unsettled like super-stiff carbon frames can.

The direct-fit Bontrager Speed Stop brakes are very effective in combination with the alloy rims. We think Dura-Ace and SRAM Red have a slight edge in terms of feel, but these look great and we can’t fault the performance.

The new Domane sets another benchmark in comfort, combining clever technology with an exciting ride. And for added practicality it even comes with hidden mudguard/fender mounts. Neat. Now we just need to get hold of that elusive pro version…

Share this article

Senior technical editor

• Terms & Conditions
• Subscribe to our magazines
• Manage preferences

The Trek Domane SLR 7 AXS Gen 4 in review – Head-to-head in our all-road group test

The Trek Domane SLR 7 AXS Gen 4 claims to be a high-end, performance-oriented bike. It doesn’t show at first glance. Upon closer inspection, however, it’s full of hidden details and technical gadgetry. We found out how the most expensive bike on test fares against the competition in our all-road group test, with its hefty € 10,999 price tag.

This bike was tested as part of our 2023 all-road group test – you can find an overview of the group test and the featured bikes over here: The best all-road bike of 2023 – 10 all-road bikes in review

Trek already stood out from the crowd in our gravel race bike group test with the well thought-through and uncomplicated Checkpoint. In our all-road group test, Trek take on the competition with the Domane SLR 7 AXS Gen 4. Although it isn’t the flagship model, it has all of the standout features, including IsoSpeed damping at the rear and a storage compartment in the down tube. The damping elements and geometry are identical across the latest Domane range. But our supposed high-end bike for just under € 11,000 saves on the components, and is somewhat restrained in terms of handling. How does it fare in the all-road segment and our test field?

Trek Domane SLR 7 AXS Gen 7 – More than just average?

Trek have established their own, unique design language. As such, there’s no mistaking the Domane SLR 7 for anything else. It combines the characteristic shield-like head tube with the Trek head badge. The curved top tube flows into the seat stays, and the classic, aero-optimised, oversized down tube with the bold Trek lettering completes the picture. The bike also features an updated version of Trek’s in-house IsoSpeed damping mechanism, swallowing bumps and impacts. The design is superior to the simple flex in the Specialized Roubaix, and it’s clearly noticeable, at least at the rear. Another standout feature is the designers’ attention to detail: a magnetic, colour-matched cover hides both the seat post clamp and the mounting point of the IsoSpeed system. The frame also comes with a storage compartment in the down tube, one of only two bikes in our test to do so, alongside the Argon 18, as well as an integrated chain guide. The latter helps to keep the chain in place when things get bumpy. Underlining its all-road character, the Domane caters to a wide range of use cases. For example, the top tube bag mounts allow you to expand the onboard storage capacity for longer rides. With mounting points for mudguards, the bike is ready to tackle any weather, making it our first choice for commuting.

With a price point of almost € 11,000, the components aren’t quite what you might expect. While the SRAM Force AXS 2x groupset comes with a power meter and offers a gear range suitable for all-road use, it isn’t SRAM’s top end model. As such, the Trek isn’t on par with the similarly priced bikes from Wilier and SCOTT, both of which come equipped with Shimano’s flagship DURA-ACE groupset. The same applies to the Bontrager Aeolus Pro 37 wheels. Although they’re beyond reproach, they don’t stand out for their brilliant performance or looks either. The tires on the Domane are sourced in-house too, and the 32 mm Bontrager R3s offer extremely solid handling, sufficient grip – even on loose terrain – and roll efficiently on smooth asphalt. With 38 mm tire clearance, the frame also has plenty of room left to be converted into a true all-road monster. The cockpit can also be customised easily thanks to the external cable routing past the stem and the absence of a one-piece design. However, the more affordable Wilier and SCOTT do them one better here, too, relying on a higher-quality one-piece carbon cockpit. Unfortunately, it’s also the only bike on test with which we had to contend with rattling cables. The SRAM hoses are routed internally through the frame, running along the bottom of the down tube, where additional cable guides or foam sleeves might help to reduce the noise. Overall, the bike is conspicuously inconspicuous in its components and looks – not least because of the green colour, based on Disney’s “Go Away Green,” which is intended to make objects not draw attention. Thus, by and large, the almost € 11,000 bike is somewhat boring and easy to forget.

Trek Domane SLR 7 AXS Gen 4

Specifications

Seatpost Domane Carbon Brakes SRAM Force eTap AXS 160 mm Drivetrain SRAM Force eTap AXS 2x12 Stem Bontrager RCS 100 mm Handlebar Bontrager IsoCore Pro 440 mm Wheelset Bontrager Aeolus Pro 37 Tires Bontrager R3 700x32c

Technical Data

Size 47 50 52 54 56 58 60 62 Weight 8,54 kg

Specific Features

Storage compartment in the down tube Mounting points for bags, mudguards, and bottle cages The only bike on test with a power meter Cleverly integrated IsoSpeed damping mechanism at the rear

On cloud 9 – The Trek Domane SLR 7 AXS Gen 4 absorbs all the bumps

The Trek’s ride feel is significantly influenced by the IsoSpeed system. It works extremely well, smoothing out all the bumps without decoupling the rider from the experience completely. It also works well together with the rigid front end: while having no damping up front bothered us on the Checkpoint gravel bike, resulting in an imbalance between the front and rear, it suits the all-road bike perfectly. The handling is stable and composed, restrained for a road bike, tracking true and straight. It’s confidence instilling even on unfamiliar roads and rough terrain. The Domane is the most fun on long, fast corners, where the handling and conservative riding position can play to their strengths. It remains predictable and intuitive on gravel roads and cobblestones, and it has the potential to venture even further off-road considering the maximum tire clearance. Pulling away, the bike feels somewhat sluggish, as it isn’t super reactive or agile, though it will get up to speed willingly and hold it there efficiently over long distances. It doesn’t blast up the climbs quite like the bikes from MERIDA or Wilier, but it’s destined for relaxed all-road riding. It will get up every mountain pass, master the descents, and just eat up kilometres on the straights. The Trek Domane is fun to ride thanks to its good-natured and intuitive handling. The long-distance comfort makes it the perfect choice for epic all-day rides, never dishing out any nasty surprises.

Textbook all-road, though eye-wateringly expensive.

Who is the Trek Domane SLR 7 AXS Gen 4 for?

The great strength of the Trek Domane SLR 7 AXS Gen 4 is its versatility, making it an interesting option for different use cases and conditions. The ample tire clearance, mudguard and top tube bag mounting points, the – albeit small – storage compartment in the down tube, the chain guide, and, finally, the standout IsoSpeed feature make for an incredibly versatile bike. It doesn’t just cater to classic all-road riding – from smooth asphalt to gravel – but also cuts a fine figure as a commuter or long-distance tourer. The timeless design and subtle colour give the bike a discreet look, which suits the Trek well. If you’ve got the necessary change and are happy to accept a few compromises regarding the components, you get a capable all-road bike for all occasions.

Tuning tip: Foam sleeves for the internally routed cables to quieten things down.

Riding Characteristics

• comfortable

Value for money

Size: 47 50 52 54 56 58 60 62 Weight: 8,54 kg Price: € 10,999

Indended Use

Conclusion on the trek domane slr 7 axs gen 4.

The Trek Domane SLR 7 AXS Gen 4 is chock-full of features. It offers sufficient long-distance comfort via the IsoSpeed system and has plenty of tire clearance. Thanks to the predictable and restrained handling, it’s capable of more than just classic all-road riding and turns out to be a great choice for the more adventurous among us. With its € 10,999 price point and mediocre spec, however, the Domane is neither affordable, nor does it offer great value for money.

• coherent and versatile concept
• very comfortable thanks to the inconspicuously integrated IsoSpeed system
• timeless look that you won’t get tired of looking at

• internally routed cables rattle loudly

You can find out more about at trek.com

The testfield

All bikes on review: Argon 18 Krypton (Click for review) | Merida Scultura Endurance 9000 (Click for review) | Parapera Atmos² (Click for review) | Pinarello X (Click for review) | Rondo Ratt CF (Click for review) | Rose Reveal Plus (Click for review) | Scott Solace eRide 10 (Click for review) | Specialized Roubaix Comp (Click for review) | Trek Domane SLR 7 AXS Gen 4 | Wilier Granturismo SLR (Click for review)

No, it’s not about perfect race tracks, it’s about efficiency. Fast, fleet-footed and efficient – those who want to speed along high-speed passages need a defined and spritely bike that accelerates with ease and efficiency. Nevertheless, reliable components are important too. We interpret “Smooth tarmac” bikes as follows: Hard efforts at high speeds with a maximum efficient bike on a consistently well-paved road. Effort-joy ratio: 80:30 (not everything has to be 100%!) ↩

… also known as bike riding. Broken-up roads in the hinterland, deadlocked gravel roads, loose surfaces – sometimes muddy, sometimes bone-dry. For this, it takes bikes with super all-round, handling and wearing qualities uphill and downhill. Effort-joy ratio: 50:50 ↩

If you want to use your bike almost every day, you usually do not need an extremely tuned racing machine. Solid components, which are able to cope with the rigours of continuous usage in any kind of weather, are part of the basic equipment. At the same time, the bike should have practicable details: integrated fenders/assembly options, luggage racks/attachment points and a light system or at least the option of installing bike lights. The position on the bike should be rather relaxed, the overall comfort high, so that the Afterwork Ride becomes a cure and not a curse. Effort-joy ratio: 30:70 ↩

You can find more info about our rating system in this article: Click here! ↩

Did you enjoy this article? If so, we would be stoked if you decide to support us with a monthly contribution. By becoming a supporter of GRAN FONDO, you will help secure a sustainable future for high-quality cycling journalism. Click here to learn more .

Words: Calvin Zajac Photos: Jan Richter

You may also like

The perfect wheel and tire combo – Why it’s not just the rim depth that matters

The perfect fit? Bike fitting put to the test

FOCUS PARALANE 8.9 – Back to the roots yet up to date?

2024 GIANT Defy Advanced SL – More than just a pretty face?

Canyon Endurace CF SLX 8 AXS Aero – All in the name of speed and distance?

Specialized S-Works Roubaix SL8 – A gravel wolf in all-road clothing?

• Rider Notes

2020 Trek Domane SL 7 eTap

A carbon frame endurance bike with high-end components and hydraulic disc brakes.

Manufacturer Price

Domane SLR Red eTap AXS - 2020, 56cm

In Stock: LG

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 7 eTap

Similar Bikes

(descending)

Add custom gearing

4'11" – 5'1"

4'11" – 5'3"

5'1" – 5'5"

5'3" – 5'7"

5'5" – 5'9"

5'8" – 6'0"

5'10" – 6'2"

6'0" – 6'4"

6'2" – 6'5"

• 6'0", size 56, Just right
• 5'7", size 54cm, Just right

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

Read Review

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.

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.

Apr 2020 · Benjamin Topf

Trek Domane SLR 9 eTap Project One in our big group test of 12 international competitors. Does the IsoSpeed comfort system make this the ultimate fun-machine?

High level of integration

Balanced comfort

Clever features

Lacking precision at the limit

Comparatively less light footed when accelerating

Apr 2020 · Troy Templin

Trek’s Domane+ offers added boost (sometimes)

Dec 2019 · Richard Windsor

The versatile and comfortable Trek Domane SL 6 put to the test

Comfortable

Slightly sluggish on steep hills

Dec 2019 · Stu Bowers

Hard to fault in marrying superb ride quality with outstanding comfort but just not convinced on the execution of the BITS compartment

Supremely smooth

Wide tyre clearance

Direct handling

Lacks low-end punch

Somewhat heavy

Smooth, fast, and smart: The new Domane is everything a modern road bike should be.

A stunning blend of speed, comfort, and versatility

Huge model range

A little heavy

Last updated February 12 Not listed for 1,177 days

Trek Domane+ SLR is an e-bike with all the ride sensations of a traditional road bicycle

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

Trek’s Domane+ SLR is genuinely an all-new animal for road riding. Trek uses its newly updated Domane frameset and the TQ (Technologie in Qualität) HPR50 to craft an all-road e-bike that feels traditional but is anything but.

The design focus for the Domane+ SLR was to create an e-bike with natural road bike sensations with a seriously impressive weight-to-speed ratio. The lightest offering for the Domane+ SLR tips with scales at around 25.90lbs with a 28 mph (25 km/h in Europe) max assist.

Trek Domane+ SLR

The mission of the Domane+ SLR is to give a road bike experience with a featherweight frame and a boost when you need it. To give the rider that needs an extra push for the adventure they dream of without the extra weight of a traditional e-bike. The Domane+ SLR doesn’t look, sound, fit, or feel like an electric bike, and that’s exactly what Trek wanted.

Domane+ SLR — 800 series OCLV carbon

A significant change in design for the new Domane+ SLR is the decision to use Treks’ 800 series OCLV carbon. The 800 carbon series is Trek’s top road and performance line carbon. The move to 800 series carbon allowed the design team to craft a lighter frame by eliminating excess carbon around the battery (more on that later) and harness a better overall ride quality.

The new Domane+ SLR frame features 100×12 mm front, and 142×12 mm rear spacing, with mounts for fenders and small accessories. The frame does not come with internal storage like the acoustic Domane but should fit all manner of frame bags easily.

For those that heed the call to adventure, take note the tire clearance grows from a generous 35mm for the acoustic Domane to 40mm for the Domane+ SLR. The Domane+ SLR 9 eTap pictured above supports a 40mm Bontrager GR1 tire mounted to a Bontrager RSL 37 rim with a 21mm internal and 26mm external.

Assist modes: Ride far, ride fast, ride often

Domane+ SLR has a max assist of up to 28 mph, with a 360-watt/hour battery. That range can take riders around 60 miles in Eco-mode or around 90 miles with the optional 160-watt/hour Range Extender.

The Domane+ SLR comes from the factory with three assist modes; Eco, Mid, and High. You can now customize each mode and plan routes in the new Trek app. The app also allows you to see how far your current battery charge will take you and allow you to make adjustments to the assist, ensuring you get to the end of the ride. Though the app works great, the integrated top tube display is in plain sight and will give you the ride details when needed.

What’s the motor?

If you saw the new Trek Fuel EXe announcement , we’re guessing you know which motor comes on this new Domane+. The TQ-HPR50 harmonic pin ring e-system motor. This motor is remarkably lightweight (3900g), tranquil, and gives a boost without the lurch of some e-bike motors.

What is a pin motor? In a nutshell, most e-bike motors use gears and belts to transmit power. These parts take up more space and can make noise or break. The HPR50 uses a harmonic drive transmission that’s small, simple, and dependable. To learn more about the workings of the new TQ motor, check out our deep dive into the TQ HPR50 here .

Using the TQ motors, designers employed a close-to-standard road Q factor of around 163mm. This narrow Q-factor helps riders from a traditional road bike make the switch naturally and not feel like riding a horse or fat bike.

Assist at the shifter

Trek opted to move the assist mode adjustment closer to the shifter, helping riders keep their hands in one place, making for an immaculate presentation. The intuitive mode control buttons on the hoods and road-specific tune give Domane+ SLR a traditional road bike fit and feel while still providing a natural-feeling boost.

Where is the battery?

I asked this question when our review bike arrived; the simple answer….was it’s IN the frame (best Zoolander voice). Having the battery molded into the frame of the new Domane+ SLR allowed the design team to cut weight (carbon and battery fittings) and make the frame as sleek looking as possible.

Can you remove the battery? Trek says an experienced home mechanic can remove the battery in 15-30 minutes “Remove the drive unit cover, remove the drive unit, remove the screws that hold the battery charge port in place, remove the battery.” If that sounds like too much wrenching for you, your local Trek retailer is happy to help.

Need more battery? The mileage you get from each battery varies on many factors, such as rider weight, assist level, tire choice, riding surface, terrain, and more. If you’re looking to go longer than the frame battery can take you, Trek offers a Range extender battery that can add around 30 extra miles to your ride. The Range Extender battery sits in the water bottle cage and weighs around the same amount as a 26oz full bottle. The Range Extender plugs into the charging port and keeps the wires nice and tight to keep your pedaling smooth. For added security, Trek includes a strap to help stabilize the Range Extender for those long days exploring the gravel.

Domane+ SLR Geometery

The geometry for the Domane+ SLR is almost exactly the same as the Trek Domane  “endurance” or H2 geometry. The Domane+ SLR frame has 10mm longer chainstays (43cm vs. 42cm on a 54cm frame). The longer rear gives the Domane+ SLR a planted feel in the corners and on the road. A longer wheelbase is good because the speeds you can hit on the flats with the TQ motor may be unfamiliar territory to some riders.

The H2 geometry features a higher top tube and a slightly longer wheelbase to give the bike a stable feel no matter the terrain. The all-new Domane+ SRL frames boast a wide range of sizes, starting at 50cm and ending at 62cm.

Trek Domane+ SLR Specs, models, and weights

The Trek Domane+ SLR frame is electronic shifting only, so the shifting offerings are all top-notch. Each model comes in a Shimano Di2 or SRAM eTap configuration. The SRAM option employs a single front ring, while the Shimano uses a double.

The top offering Domane+ SLR 9, arrives with either SRAM eTap RED (single front ring) or Shimano Dura Ace 12 speed with a double ring set-up.

The line trickles down from Di2 Ultegra 12 speed and SRAM eTap Force for the Domane+ SLR 7 and Shimano Di2 105 or SRAM Rival eTap for the Domane+ SLR 6.

The Shimano spec is slightly more road-focused, with narrower 32mm tires, and the SRAM with 40mm gravel-ish ones. You can choose your density for your Domane+ SLR as they all come with Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37 wheels , a BikeRumor staff favorite for its super lightweight and versatility.

Each Domane+ SLR, no matter what configuration, comes with the same base frameset, though the Project One offerings have a flashier paint job.

• Trek Domane+ SLR 9 Project One eTap (tested): Price: $13,000, Weight: 27.03lbs* actual
• Trek Domane+ SLR 9 Project One Shimano: Price: $13,000, Weight: 25.90lbs
• Trek Domane+ SLR 7 Project One eTap: Price: $10,000, Weight: 27.56lbs
• Trek Domane+ SLR 7 Project One Shimano: Price: $10,000, Weight: 26.90lbs
• Trek Domane+ SLR 7: Price: $9,500, Weight: 26.90lbs
• Trek Domane+ SLR 6 Project One eTap: Price: $9,000, Weight: 27.78lbs
• Trek Domane+ SLR 6 Project One Shimano : Price: $9,000, Weight: 27.78lbs
• Trek Domane+ SLR 6: Price: $8,500. Weight: 27.34lbs

Trek Domane+ SLR 9 Project One eTap — Initial ride impressions

Out of the box, the Trek Domane+ SLR 9 looks like a regular road bike with a beefy down tube. Once you look closer, you notice the screen and the gearbox. Trek isn’t trying to “hide” the motor on the bike. They are attempting to make it feel more like an acoustic road bike. Maybe to make you think less about the motor and additions and more about riding the bike.

The Trek Domane+ SLR 9 was easy enough to pair with the Trek Central app, which is new from the launch of the Trek Fuel EXe with the TQ motor. The app acts as a riding partner, helping you dial in tire pressure, motor settings, and maps.

Trek Domane+ SLR 9 feels like an acoustic bike on the open road, especially while corning and riding tight roads.  Most ebikes have a very bottom-heavy feel (like riding with full bottles vs. without). The Trek Domane+ SLR 9 doesn’t have any of these ride sensations. The fact that it feels more like a traditional road bike makes you want to push the limit in corners and on the flats. The Domane+ geometry is right in the sweet spot for stability and spark when you need it.

The IsoSpeed damper is a perfect addition to the Trek Domane+ SLR 9; with the 28mph speed threshold, the bike can roll on the flats, and the IsoSpeed eats up the chatter.

I found adjusting the modes at the shifter to be highly intuitive; never having to take your hands off the bars is paramount on an e-bike with such speed capabilities. The top tube screen is bright and clear, enough to get all the necessary information.  The bike worked well with the Garmin and Wahoo head units we used during our initial outings, plus the new Bontrager stems have a spot for out-front computer mount.

The Domane+ SLR will be available globally on trekbikes.com and through Trek’s global network of retail partners. We’re excited to get out more on the Trek Domane+ SLR 9. Look for a full review coming in the future. Until then, check out TrekBikes.com for more information.

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

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

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

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

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Ultra clean looking bike TREK! I think this lightweight e-light category is poised for growth. I had high hopes for the Spesh Creo when it came out. I found i could only get around 25 miles of range or less from the 360Wh battery going full gas. Maybe get a few range extender batteries in the jersey pockets… Sidenote: “The IsoSpeed dampener,” it’s called a damper. A dampener would be something that gets wet, like a sprinkler, or a garden hose.

Agree its a nice design, but think I’d strike the same issue I also had with the Creo – had to run it in Turbo to get a good run climbing, but blew 75% of the battery in about 25km (15 miles).

Trek has 50 NM motor, whereas, Specialized Creo has only 35 NM motor, which sucks for assist during hill climbing.

The price for the top-tier model is actually quite surprising considering the prices we see for some non-ebikes these days.

Three assist modes; Eco, Mid, and High. Anyone know how many watts the motor puts out in each mode? I’m trying to understand how much assist you get vs the power you can put out.

Max is 300w ontop of what you’re doing. All modes can be fine tuned via app to cover what range of assist you’d like each one to do.

It depends…but: 360W/H battery. Eco is claiming 100KM but they don’t specify speed. The math is like so: 360W/H / 100KM = 3.6WH/KM, then multiply by the speed they calculated at (who knows) so 3.6wh/km * 30km/h (seems high) = 106 watts of power. At 20km/h we get 72 watts of assist.

I own a Domane+ SLR9 and it’s all smoke and mirrors. There is no built in power meter so the eAssist is a guessing game for power assist. It displays power reading and works off the power reading but the accuracy is off approx 100%. Trek acknowledge the issue and say they do not say that there is a power meter only inaccurate but consistent power readings from an inaccurate algorithm. The result is that all the training apps pick up the wrong TSS scores and screw up your averages. $17000 worth of crap in my opinion.

Please, just call it as you like, but I implore you and all, to just call regular bikes, as always, plain and simple, bikes, or,if you must, normal bikes…

What is an “acoustic road bike”?

As opposed to an electric bike (i.e. acoustic guitar vs. electric).

Electric = Rock n’ Roll.

The speed of an ebike but stealthy and refined like a conventional bike. Your competition won’t see you coming or passing. It will definitely keep them guessing.

I vote for “analog” if we must use a term other than “bike” or “pedal bike”.

I have a BMC Allpenchallenge AMP and this Trek is the same concept, but in a nicer package. 25kmh limitation in Europe is a problem if you want to do flat group rides, but it works really well if you ride alone or in the mountains.

With the TQ motor technology these should see significantly more mileage range than a similar setup from a different company. Plus you could double that with one of their range extender batteries if you wanted. ISO speed is a great addition to the Domane+, wish they would have kept the front ISO on the new pedal Domanes.

“28mph speed threshold” is this true/correct?

Imagine paying $13 grand for a friggin Trek….

Billboards are expensive!

So of course I have to ask, as it wasn’t written here: How does it compare to the unnamed competition over at brand S?

I own and have loved the S bike. I would like the additional wattage in power, and I”m definitely down for less obvious ruckus from the motor.

I owned a Creo. Sold it after 1 year. Kept breaking down, the motor noise was high. I weigh 210 lbs, so climbing even slowly I used up a lot of battery, and had to have one or even two extenders at times. I’ve been waiting for a new development in motors rather than S’s Bosch. TQ sounds like this is it.

Have had not one problem with the motor on mine. The rest was normal bike stuff.

I’m 225, but in Texas where it is flat, can get about 30 miles on Turbo with the extender

Upgraded the heck out of it (went full SRAM/ENVE). It has gotten quieter, and slightly more powerful (either that or it actually does work for fitness) as it has aged. The battery still shows 100% life after over 5k miles.

What accounts for the $500 price difference between the SLR 6 ($8,500) and the other two SLR 6es (eTap or Shimano at $9,000)?

• Trek Domane+ SLR 6 Project One eTap:  Price: $9,000, Weight: 27.78lbs
• Trek Domane+ SLR 6:  Price: $8,500. Weight: 27.34lbs

Project One paint

hi, good article. If i ride mostly on roads, but like option for gravel, would gravel configuration work fine for roads & gravel?

Follow Us On

Subscribe Now

Sign up to receive BikeRumor content direct to your inbox.

• Domane SLR 7 AXS Gen 4