I think a better question is, for the vast majority of cyclists, whether racing bikes are still relevant, given most of us don't race. And neither do many of us still retain the flexibility to take full advantage of them. The comfort afforded by endurance bikes, particularly on longer rides, seems far more paramount than finishing your ride a few minutes faster.
Agree, I have a 2021 Domane SLR and an first edition Emonda ALR and love them both. I was looking at the Emonda SLR and found that I really enjoy the Domane and the weight is just not a huge concern for me, if it was that big of a deal, I would give up ice cream, but, no. :)
Thank you and well said!!! I enjoy watching bike races BUT i am not intending to compete in Crit races or an endurance race like the Roubaix. I just enjoy cycling for the pure enjoyment as i am sure most average people do. Too much emphasis is placed on racing, technology and the newest gadget that can ne put on to a bike to make sales. Bike manufacturers need to place far more emphasis on the love of riding in all types of conditions. Simply put, get more people riding bikes by bringing down these outrageous prices being charged to simply own and ride a bike. After all it’s still just a bike.
Racing bikes are not relevant for majority of these weekend warriors period. Its their ego and wanting to look like a pro who can’t even podium on any races they enter into. Its pretty delusional. But if it makes them more healthy and cycle more then i support that. There will always be a suckers that buys marketing hype bs unfortunately.
I agree, but so many aren't commenting on where gravel fits, they just stop at road. Gravel is the bike that will kill endurance, not road with big tires. Non race oriented gravel, that is.
I am a Trek dealer in New York City. We sell, by far, more Domane than Emonda and Madone put together. David, for sure, Endurance/"All Road" bikes are getting squeezed on either side, however, the Domane is the best, "Real Person" bike. Not overly racy, nor is it a bicycle version of Ewan and Charlie. It's the road bike for most of us. I, for one, love this bike. Ain't jus' sayin it, honest! :) Thanks, David!
What're your thoughts of the AL 5? How's the quality of the aluminum? The 100 series kind of makes me nervous, makes me think it's not as well made as the Checkpoint.
As a long time Domane rider I feel the same way. I’ve had 5 mountain bikes and two “race” bikes and at 59 my Domane SL5 has been the perfect bike for the past 10,000km
@Jimmy870 the al 5 is great but its pretty stiff ive serviced a couple that have been riden for 2-3 years and they have had little to no issues other than regular maintenance things. the only bent one ive seen was rear ended on a rack but honestly wasnt as mangled as i thought it would be hearing the story on the phone
THE reason to buy a Domane is the relaxed geometry. Unless you are getting paid to ride, your 'speed' means nothing. Being more relaxed and upright makes longer days SO much more ENJOYABLE. Which is what is really important.
Yes!! So true!! Even if I ride 2x Domane SL myself the speed comes so much from how I feel in the body and airflow thru it so to speak. Everyone asks me if my bike is a gravelbike to even tho I have road tires on, tho 38mm but still 12mm cleareance everywhere around fork and so on
@@bikebudha01so why not just get a hybrid bike that’s even more upright ? Just genuinely curious if being upright is more comfortable , why don’t people get hybrid
@@JitinMisra Hybrid bikes don't work for longer rides. To much pressure on the crotch. If you ride a lot, which I do, you want to spread your weight between the crotch and your hands. Also, hybrid don't handle well. They are great for the bike path, but terrible everywhere else.
@@bikebudha01 what’s your limit in terms of distance , for hybrid bikes ? I only did 8-10 miles but I only consider road bike, because I feel like it engages your hips and glutes more
Endurance bikes still are the best option for most riders due to their geometry more applicable to riders who haven’t got the body mass of Kate Moss or an FTP of 300w. Race bikes still have aggressive geometry which means sore neck and shoulders for most. Race bikes if you race and endurance for the rest.
You are talking lots of sense mate. But most delusional weekend warrior thinks they can ride race geometry bikes. Theres a reason why after a few months you will see these bikes on sale 🤷♂️🤣🤣🤣
Why not go for more aero position. I am cycling for exercise and improve my overall stamina, at the same time improve my pr. When a peloton overtake me, I do really need those aero position and chase them, keep up with them, save a lot of energy at higher speed, so fun. Even you have endurance bike, when the time come, you still need the aero position. Even weekend rider still riding fast in peloton at 40km/h minimum. Conclusion, know your objective, need and body capability and buy either race or endurance bike.
@@apair4002 why you want aero when you cant sustain it for hours? 🤷♂️ want to look like a pro but with a body of average punter right? It dont make sense mate 🤦♂️ comfort and power are king for average weekend warriors like you and majority of people taking cycling.
@@apair4002 many of us don't ride in peloton. I mainly see people cycling on their own and when it's more it's usually 2 or 3 no more. So riding at 40kph is not really a THING for us mere mortals...
I am riding a new Emonda SL5 on a daily commute and weekend warrior efforts after my 2018 Emonda SL died in a crash earlier this year. I have to say the H1.5 geometry with Pirelli tubeless 28mm is a significantly more comfortable ride than my 2018 frame. It is a bit slower (probably because of the added weight (frame, disc, and wheels) but overall glad I went with the Emonda over Domane, which my local bike shop tried to sell.
I ride 80% road 20% gravel but I wouldn't purchase an Emonda because the head tube is too short for my liking (30 mm shorter). I wouldn't purchase a pure Checkpoint as the head tube is even shorter than the Emonda and the reach is longer than both bikes. The Domane is perfect for this 62 year old who isn't getting more limber with age, only worse. Endurance bikes are perfect and I hope they continue building them. Great video and your question is a great talking point.
100% agree with you. The geometry prevented me from getting a Checkpoint. The Domane, on the other hand, is the best there is out there for my body proportions and bike fit.
I think stack height is more important than top tube length for this right? Checkpoint is slightly higher. Also the frame reach being longer is compensated for with a shorter stem.
In March 2022 I purchased a 61CM Checkpoint SL6 eTap (it started as a 2021 but because I had to wait 10 months it became 2022) and have ridden about 2,300 miles on it including two 100-mile century rides. It replaced my 16yr old Trek Madone. I am in my early 60s and ride about 90% road and 10% gravel mainly in the Santa Cruz mountains with roads that have 4% to 15% portions. Originally thought I would have liked a Domane but the one in my size through my local dealer still isn't arriving until October (so maybe a 2023 model now?). It is almost an impossibility to have two different models of the correct size that you can try out at the same time before you buy. I do like the Checkpoint. I now have two wheelsets, and mainly ride on 32c road tires, the other has 40c MB tires. Hard to say if I would have liked the Domane more. The gear ratio of the Checkpoint with the Rival 40t chainring and 10-44 cassette works where I live. It would be nice to have a slightly larger gear range for those occasional times when you are on the flats with a tailwind but I am not in my 40s anymore and also great to not deal with two chainrings. Whichever way one goes, I highly recommend electronic shifting.
Endurance bikes are absolutely relevant, from a geometry standpoint. Most of us are not suited for long and low race bikes. For me, even my Domane ALR is still a tiny bit too short and too low (given my short arms and bad back)
I remember when you couldn’t get a TREK bike for pre embargo testing. Now yow you have the only one in the UK. Not early, but still a privilege to be amongst the first. I haven’t seen anyone else review it yet.
I have a 2020 SL6 and it rides like a dream! the frame geometry fits like a glove, better than and with zero touch point modifications that I need to (or have needed to) on my full on race bikes. Gravel bikes are toads, the bigger tires don't 'plane' above smooth roads like a proper road bike. My Domane glides over the pavement with ease unlike a gravel bikes I have ridden (Diverge) and climbs like a mountian goat and is super comfortable despite being a few pounds heavier than my other road bikes. 50+ mile rides at a whim and I feel great at the end of the ride! Endurance bikes have a future because they are road race fast and they're a lot more comfortable than say a Madone. Endurance bikes are fast bikes for regular people.
I think endurance bikes will stay sort of relevant for genral public due to geometry. Racing geometry is getting so aggressive these days that only really fit people will fit ( no pun intended). An if you're not interested in gravel the endurance may be the way to go. I'm on that situation since the geometry of my 10 years old TCR is more similar to todays Defy than the new TCR.
Yep its all abbout the geometry, and also some of the "comfort" features, like flexible seat posts (great if you have a bad back...). Some gravel bikes are also getting really aggressive geometry wise.
Agree and to build on this point as a long-legged, short torso rider, for some people a "race" geometry will never fit without significant modification regardless of how much work has been put into core stability and flexibility exercises. The whole categorization of "endurance" vs "race" fit needs to be discarded by the manufacturers from my point of view as it enforces the false narrative that getting lower and stretchier is always better, regardless of body type - that is simply not the case.
Seen a few folk out on stupid high seat to low bars and short wheelbase. Very slow and unstable in traffic and, I guess, not great for reading the road any distance ahead. At 67, I can ride much lower than most and prefer to do so with toes down but the guys I've seen around my area just look awkward and unhappy on their bikes
We are all getting older and the older we get the more relevant endurance geometry becomes. I’m 75 and ride an older Domane that doesn’t even have internal cables. It’s fantastic and I hope to still be riding it for years.
I’ve been riding my Gen 4 Domane SL6 eTap for about 3 weeks, the bike is amazing. I’m a 55 y/o - I’m a petite 208 pounds 😂 I bought this bike because I enjoy the endurance geometry, I upgraded from a 2019 Gen 3 Domane SL6, the new bike is lighter and rides faster and still extremely comfortable. I ride around 250-300 miles a month, usually in 20-30 mile chunks and for me it over delivers, it’s really fun riding this new bike. I think this bike fits a broad range of cyclist, let’s face it we all can’t ride in the Tour de France 🇫🇷. But when your riding this bike you almost feel like you are, SRAM drivetrain is awesome and works flawlessly, I’m running the Bontrager R3 tires tubeless 32c and they are great so far. I have to tip my hat to Trek they made a comfortable endurance bike, that can stand up to anything with your average Joe behind the bars.
I lucked upon one yesterday. I got a SLR 7 etap on sale as another local shop was having a taking over by Trek Corp sale and my shop did not want to lose sales, so they matched it. I picked up my bike for 30% off... just lucked into this deal. Moved wheels, saddle, pedals, etc, today, got all the parts synched and firmware updated, got the powermeter setup. Taking my maiden voyage tomorrow morning.
@@justsomedude7556 What a great deal! I test rode a Gen 4 SLR6 today and it excited me at how it handled and how smooth, refined and quiet it was on bumpy roads. Gotta get one. Holding out for an SLR Ultegra Di2 ..Might be a while. Or I could grab the SLR6 with Rival eTap. I just don't feel the love for Rival eTap.
@@gair1944 I was always a Shimano guy, prior Domane was di2 Ultegra, I have to say, I am digging the eTap. I am looking at converting an older bike that is not di2 compatible. Just a little relearning of the gearing of the 46/33 versus the 50/34. I am glad I took the chance
The Domane is a popular bike in Wisconsin, Trek's home state, as it allows for exploring our lumpy roads and occasional gravel bike trails w/o feeling beat-up at the end of the ride. My 2020 SL7 is by far the nicest bike to ride that I've ever owned in 35+ years of cycling. The Gen 4 model addresses the one issue I have with my Gen 3, that being the seat post mast allowing water into the frame.
I have a 2022 SLR Domane and a 2020 SLR Emonda. I live in the San Francisco Bay area where the roads are poor, and in my area, the gravel is too rocky for your average gravel bike - more mt. bike terrain. That said, I've fitted out my Domane with tubeless Gravel King SS tires (32C on the front, 35C on the back.) My Emonda has tubeless Conti 5000 tires both 32C, though the bike isn't specked for that large a size but they fit fine. For long distance riding 60-100 miles (100 to 160km) I prefer the Domane. When I'm hammering with my club mates, and the rides are shorter, I prefer the Emonda. On a long ride, say a century...I feel pretty beat at the end when using the Emonda, where as the Domane is very plush, plush enough that I notice the difference between the two on longer rides. I'm 65 years old and have been riding for years. I average 200 miles (320km) per week. Prior to Covid, I was still racing and if I start racing again I will use the Emonda. But if you have rough roads, and you like long even paces rides, the Domane is king. So after a long winded comment, I believe endurance bikes are still relevant and I'm fortunate that I have both an Emonda and a Domane.
Thanks. I'm now 68 years old and riding around 250 miles (400km)/week at an average of 17-18 mph (a bit under 30km). Though I still have the same Domane I now use a Cervelo Caledonia. Though labeled as an endurance bike by Cervelo, I made a few mods to make it so; better wheels (Zipp 303 FC), and replaced the seat tube, stem and bars w/Zipp carbon versions. The Caledonia comes with Al versions and makes the bike less compliant. It's quite a bit lighter than the Domane and little more race oriented but still comfortable over long rides.
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@@BobGrove hope to watch more videos from you with the Cervelo 🙏😊
I’ve been riding a Domane since 2017 and it’s perfect for urban riding (NYC) and anything from short after work rides to weekend century’s. Average speeds from 15 to 20mph depending on distance and elevation, which I think covers most use cases and rider types. That said…I replaced stock alloy wheels with Hunt 50mm carbon and saved about 1lb, but still around 17lbs with cages and power meter (Assioma duo) pedals, which is at least 1lb heavier than it should be in a damn size small frame! 🤯 For someone like me who does a wide variety of surfaces from smooth tarmac to hard pack gravel and urban pothole broken pavement, it’s great. It climbs and descends fine, not super fast straight but again, fine. Can put down close to 1,000 watts and the frame doesn’t feel like it’s torquing or flexing (and if so, very very little). For 99% of recreational riders, a Domane SL with carbon wheels and 105 mechanical is enough, 99% of the time.
I have a Domane with two wheelsets. Currently running 32c GP5K on the road wheelset and 38c GravelKing SS+ on the "gravel" wheelset. I'm not doing tons of big chunky gravel or long runs of single track but I've been pretty impressed by the capability of the bike.
totally agree, a dedicated gravel wheel set (30mm) on my Roubaix works fine on most of the gravel I ride, and I still have my road wheels for the bulk of my riding. 👍
This is EXACTLY my use case. 90%+ riding on weekends/evenings with the Group Ride, larger guy so I want wider tires than 28mm, not a weight weanie. I've thought long and hard about aero frame but the reality that a set of tri bars on a round handlebar that gets my body in a good position will save more watts than flat handlebars and an aero frame. Totally interested in taking up gravel and with a second set of wheels, this one frame can do both.
@@torstenkenning it's a Domane Gen III and I use the stock Bontrager Affinity disc for the Gravel King. I had an extra of the same for the GP5k until this year when I upgraded to the Aeolus Pro 3V.
Have a Domane AL4 that is used 90% of the time for long rail trails on crushed limestone. I was able to fit a set of Pirelli Cinturato Gravel H 40c tires on this bike with frame clearance to spare. The front derailleur needed to be changed to a 105 R7000, otherwise the Tiagra 4700 long arm would touch the tire. Extremely happy with this setup for long distance on light gravel.
For those of us that don't race or aren't comfortable with the head-in-your-crotch style of riding necessitated by low stack height road-race bikes, the endurance bikes offered are not only relevant, they're damn near a necessity. Riding twenty-five to fifty miles with friends to grab a sandwich and a coffee then returning home on roads that while still paved are far worse than even our broken-up interstates is better done with a touch of comfort on an endurance bike than a touch of cramps on a race bike.
I have a 2021 Domane SL5 & I love it. I’ve been riding a Domane sense 2013. I’m not a racer I just enjoy riding. So I’m interested in the new Domane. Can’t wait to throw my leg over the saddle .
David, I think you are looking at Endurance road bikes from the wrong angle, they are more than wider tyres it's the geometry that makes them an endurance bike a shorter top tube a higher stack etc. whether they continue to be relevant depends on market forces I guess.
I have both a Giant Revolt advanced Pro gravel bike and a Giant Defy advanced Pro endurance bike and the similarities between the two bikes are huge. The Defy feels faster and more agile but on Strava the times between the two bikes are very similar. As for endurance bikes I still feel there relevant as I’d gladly swap the Defy for a TCR if it wasn’t for the more stretched out position which kills my neck :(( when your older David you might well see the benefits of a less aggressive position.
I sold my Pinarello endurance bike to buy a Giant TCR. I’m very happy with the switch, I go much faster now and I’m not experiencing fatigue more than before. I actually find the TCR more enjoyable
This seems like more of an 'every dude' bike as opposed to a Madone and I'd love to try one -- even with balloon tires, the Madone will be a challenging ride for most people due to the lower stack height and aggressive geometry. One of my (minor) gripes with Trek is the garish, comically large logo on the downtube and yes, I have a Trek but an older, more modest generation. They should have a "subtle logo" option liike that pretty new Madone in your shop (better keep that locked up well!).
I have ridden the Emonda and Domane and loved both of them, for what they were designed for. The Emonda was great for climbing in the hills around Los Angeles, and the Domane was great for the 235 mile tour I did this past weekend. Yes, you can customize a road or gravel bike to get close to an endurance bike, but you still have to customize it (more cash out of pocket). My Domane is still running on all factory components. No customization (of frame or components) needed.
I think they're still relevant. I own a 22 Domane SLR and a 22 Madone SLR and a '17 Salsa Warbird for gravel. For shorter rides where I want speed, I'll take the race bike, but I do endurance work on weekends of 100+ miles, even did a 200 miler this past year. My Domane is hands down more comfortable on anything beyond 2 hours in the saddle. If you're just riding around doing under 50 miles on your rides, what ever - Get the bike you want... But if you're not being paid to ride like a pro and you're riding 5-14 hour rides, endurance bikes certainly have a place and I feel they're the right tool for the job in that circumstance. I run 32mm wide tires on my Pro 3V wheel set (37 mm depth / 25 mm inner width) and 28's on my RSL 37's.
I value the comfort of endurance bike geometry on 40 - 50 mile rides. Most definitely. 65 years old. Love to ride. Don't race obviously, but love the sport of cycling 'comfortably'.
Love my domane since its the more road-focused gravel bike in my opinion. Everything is one by and for the 20-30% of gravel I do, having a spare set of wheels with 40c tires to put on is a great all-rounder bike. With a slammed -10 degree stem, you can get a plenty aggressive sitting position for the road to get nice and aero.
Owner of a Domane SL7 2021 eTap SRAM Force- Im very pleased with the bike. I changed tires from 28 to 32 so it can be now used as allround bike, long distances/endurance,taking the hills very well,light gravel as well.All good :)
GCN Tech just did (9/8/2022) a poll question asking what type of bike geometry is preferred. Race or endurance and the results from the viewers was 62% preferred endurance geometry to 38% for race geometry.
Interesting and tells you a lot about their audience, but generally endurance bikes have been higher sellers than pure race bikes for most bike brands over the years
I like my endurance bike (Giant Contend AR 1) with various upgrades like carbon handlebars and custom alloy wheelset because the geometry is more comfortable (I am middle aged) and I like the 32c tubless tires to prevent flats. It has endurance gearing (11-34 and 50-34) which helps on the hills even if it isn't as fast. It allows me to ride on rougher pavement and light gravel and make my rides more adventurous, trying new routes.
I've got a 2022 Domane SL 5 and in my gravel set up, I am running Paradigm Comp 25 wheels with GravelKing SK 38mm tires. My aero set up includes Aeolus Pro51 wheels with GP5000 32mm tires.
Endurance bikes are the best pick especially if you can't follow (n+1) formula. They are basically good bikes for the road and good enough for majority of the gravel riding and anything in between (like CX:). I'm personally riding on a budget: simple Fuji Sportifwith up to 38mm tires that allows me to ride anything from group rides, centuries, gravel, local mtb trails and CX and it's all for the fracture of the price of nowadays endurance bikes😃👌🏼 Long live the endurance bikes🤘🏼
I have 2020 Domane SL5 and love it. I ride it every day if weather allows. The only upgrade I made was a saddle swap to specialized power mimic. This bike will stay with me for years to come :)
I have a 2021 Domane SL5. Doing about 100-150 miles of riding a week on tarmac with the stock setup and I think it rides exceptional. Done a small amount of gravel with 32mm hybrid tires and it was okay. Thinking 38 or 40 mm gravel tires would help. Overall, my version of the Domane is great for the rode and can handle light gravel stuff without an issue. My thinking the endurance bikes will be around for a long time because they are for everyday riders and the long distance riders.
David, you make a great point about the endurance vs gravel differentiator - Domane vs Checkpoint - one is mostly road with some gravel and the other is mostly gravel with some road. I'm perfectly happy to be in the Domane camp with 80% road use with the occasional gravel riding. My goal is to acquire a second set of wheels where one set will have gravel tires mounted, the other with road. I plan to rid myself of the MTN Giant hardtail I've had for a couple of years. Yes, I believe endurance bikes will remain relevant due to geometry and the vast number of older riders who seek the comfort for long days over tarmac.
I use my 2019 Domane as a gravel bike. Done 1000 km of rough gravel riding with no issues. Running Bontrager GR2 tyres in 40 mm and still enough clearance -never had an issue. Agree that front Isospeed is more of a gimmick than real benefit. That D shaped seat post is a real hassle. Can't fit any dropper post.
I think that endurance road bikes are still the sweet spot for many cyclists who ride primarily or exclusively on the road. Race bikes usually have aggressive geometry that most of us don't find as comfortable and won't take much advantage of the aero improvements with that body position. New endurance bikes are giving plenty of clearance for wider tires so going to a gravel bike isn't needed if not venturing off road and needing even more clearance. I find the Domane to be comparatively expensive and instead chose to order a Fairlight Strael steel bike that ends up pretty close in weight (sub 9kg) to the Domane and considerably less expensive at a similar spec (Ultegra Di2).
Hi David, due to the availability issues many brands suffer lately, I spend last months watching a lot of review videos on your channel…looking for the ultimate, suitable bike for myself but seems I still haven’t found it. During these months of reviewing I decided that it should be an endurance bike for me. Longer rides on the flat Dutch roads and occasionally on the Italian/abroad gravel. Would love to see Trek offer a 1x setup on the Domane…but they don’t…😏 Keep up the good work on your channel and get the 2023 Domane quickly 😉😃 on the road for a real review!
I feel like Domane is a quiver killer, would be for me. Over the years I slowly migrated from pure gravel rigs to a more sportier gravel bikes wit clearance up to 40 mm and their great. For anything more I have a hardtail and a fullsusser. I’d like meself a Domane. Only problem, there is no Trek dealer in my country and I will not be bothered to import myself, because then the field turns immensely wider so to speak. Looks good though, the Domane.
I like the top tube mounts. I have marred my paint on my SL6 because of my top tube bag. I use it for longer rides (60miles+) to store lip balm, wallet, gels, sunscreen, etc.
Endurance road bikes are relevant and it's obviously not just about tire clearance, its about geometry. I think a bunch of consumers want a fast light pure road bike with a geometry a bit less aggressive than one used by a 25 year old pro rider. For gravel I have a gravel bike. It is a different animal. In fact, companies would be advised to make more bikes along the lines of a Canyon Endurace. Once you get a little older you'll understand (or maybe not since you once shilled ceramic bearings for the steerer tube). And companies need to know that relevance to a pro rider in a single race shouldn't necessarily drive all their decisions on what bikes they will actually sell to people who are actually paying for their bikes. Fortunately Tek seems to get this.
I went to a custom built 2019 Orbea Avant endurance bike for the upright riding position. I am in my mid 50’s and race bikes are just uncomfortable. My last race bike was a 2019 Specialized Venge, it was fast but not fun on long rides. My recent purchase is a 2022 3t Exploro Racemax with 650b and its great for gravel and some pavement. I feel like there is still a need for endurance bikes but would like to try the Orbea Orca to see if it’s comfortable on long rides. Long rides for me are 70 to 100 miles.
Been selling bikes 17 years. This year's hot bikes Cannondale Topstone and alloy Domane along with carbon Domane however lack of stock hitting the carbon market hard. Could sell them week in week out. Diverge popular too. Accommodating an aging bike buying market. Kids are not buying bikes.
Many people have said it already, but geometry is key on this. I'm ~188cm tall, am all leg, and have wide shoulders. These newer race bikes with really aggressive geometry are just tough for me to ride and I don't necessarily want my gravel bike to double as my road bike. The geometry of these bikes may mean they don't have the sick looks of a race bike, but you're only as fast as you can somewhat comfortably ride a bike.
I feel they definitely still are relevant as road conditions, especially back roads are in bad shape and the wider tires do afford a bit of security and comfort for these conditions. Also as others have mentioned the ergonomics of an endurance bike are very welcoming especially to us riders that are in our senior years. Comfort over rides speed.
I value the comfort of endurance bike geometry on modest 40 - 50 mile rides. A lot of people in my local cycling clubs value the comfort of endurance bikes on group rides, I am 65 years old, in decent shape but I value the more relaxed comfort the geometry offers as well as compliance from a well designed carbon fiber bike. I love the sport of cycling and love it. more when I can do it 'comfortably'.
Endurance bikes fall in the sweet spot for me. Generally riding loops 30-100km directly from my house in the suburbs, average quality tarmac with some of my routes going over 15-35 km light gravel sections occasionally. I ride a Domane and its giving me juste the right performance when i feel like pushing for a good segment time, just the right confidence when hopping across those gravel sections and most importantly, allows me to still sit down for dinner after a 100+ km afternoon ride. If I bought a gravel bike, I would have to load it up in the car and drive to gravel-land to have fun, much like I already do for mtb.
I love my top tube bag and my next bike will absolutely have a dedicated mount. I’m done with Velcro. I don’t understand why such a simple feature is not standard on an endurance bike.
Currently running 2022 Domane with both front and rear isospeed. Love the bike. I am older and enjoy long rides 30 mile runs. Love the endurance series. Buddy riding a Specialized Roubaix, also enjoys the endurance geometry and ride. Hope the companies continue with the endurance style frames.
I have a 2021 SLR Domane and it all depends on the season for me. I run 28mm tires in the spring and summer and I’ll occasionally go to either 32 or 35mm during the cooler seasons. Been very happy with it
Have the 2020 sl 5. Used it for touring, bikepacking, grand fondos, crits, gravel races, and commuting. It's even a size too small but idgaf it's so damn comfortable and versatile
Most riders get a race bike because that is what the pros ride. They think...I just have to have one of those because that is what so and so is riding. Unless your serious about racing, most riders should get a endurance bike. I would love to have a Trek Domane.
I am glad they updated the IsoSpeed as you mentioned, I've adjusted twice when I first got the bike and have not touched it. I would consider getting the frameset and moving over my current setup from my current Domane versus buying the full build. edit: I happened onto one of these in the SLR 7 eTap that dropped into my lap. Rides like a dream.
Yes, I think they are still relevant. In fact, I think one of the smartest things Trek did is to offer an ebike version of the Domane for old guys like me who want the road bike experience, and be able to handle long rides in comfort on all kinds of roads.
I'd say this is a better 'all round' bike than the Canyon earlier reviewed...... And to answer the question - Yes, these bikes are really what the majority of riders should be riding, especially if you ride on the awful roads of the UK. Comfort is king. I'm on my 4th Domane, and they've all managed gravel, even the rim braked versions. This is on my radar....
2020 Domane SL7 here, I run 30mm road tires and 35mm gravel. The bike is a tad heavy, but it absolutely suits my needs wonderfully. I've bike packed with it as well. Not sure there is a need for the rsl pro version, however, for consumers, I suspect the diet the Domane received, is going to make the new model a great option for endurance and recreation riders.
I got my Domane in 2020 and rarely use big tyres (38mm) but it is useful. Primarily for road backpacking however I’ve now got a separate gravel bike so for anything rough that gets used. I normally ride the Domane with 32mm GP5000 STR’s, fine for long days, club ride but also the club TT’s and Crits!
An endurance bike is the perfect bike for me so I certainly hope they stay relevant! I want the all day, many kilometer comfort an endurance road bike geometry offers but I don't need nor want a gravel bike because there are very few gravel roads where I live and even fewer that are worth riding.
I'm buying a new endurance bike to replacing my ten year Look 566. Comfort for my regular 30km-50km solo rides is my main focus. Relaxed geometry is essential. I'm also looking forward to getting 32mm tyres. Is a new Domane a better option than a new Specialised Roubaix? (I'm not too worried about price as i only spend money on a replacement bike every 10 years or so, i just ride them stock and don't do upgrades). Any advice greatly appreciated from Domane owners
SLR Damane 2020 which I LOVE! I ride country roads in the US midwest and every summer there is fresh gravel dumped on these road and the tires I put on are 38s. I love them and notice they are much more stable on those roads with and without gravel and I feel safer and the tires filled to 65 psi makes for a comfortable ride. I had to ride my older FX/3 recently for a week and I could not believe the difference, all the bumps and road vibration is much more tiring, as is the heavier bike generally.
Why not just have both? Flip your stem and you have increased stack height. Oh wait....the new bikes dont let you do that as they have proprietary over priced one piece bar and stem combo lol
I think it depends on your level of cycling - as a racer i would look at the Domane but the SLR version with H1.5 geometry , this way i get the racey geometry i am after with a more compliant smoother ride for our terrible roads. For me that offers a fantastic UK specific bike now with a more aero frame and lighter weight!! Most people riding sub 20mph do not warrant an aero bike or even deep wheels so these bike do have a place!
I used to think they had no place but now I think they are a really good option. My wife who is not hard core can ride a nice road bike that she could race on and then have a spare set of wheels for light gravel which is perfect I think they are awesome all round bikes that does everything well other than single track
Yes, there’s a future for road bikes with a geometry more suited for the masses (i.e., higher stack, shorter reach) than found in “race” bikes. Whether it’s called a “gravel” bike or an “endurance” bike is just marketing smoke
I have the 2021 Domane SL 5 and have kept the bike stock on the 32s. I'm >50, so a relaxed geo of an edurance bike suites me! It's a pity they have finally realized they need to drop the weight as the 21 SL5 is just a tad over 10KG with peddles!!! Absoutely ridiculous for a modern 105 carbon bikel And now £4.4K for the new 105 di2 2023 version - wacko. If it hadn't havd been for the bike shortage during covid, I'd had plumbed for the Scott Addict, but my LBS had plenty of domanes in stock.
The joys of importing to U.K - prices for this bike vs similar brands is ludicrous - almost 4K for a stock 105 group set. That’s almost 25% increase in 12 months by Trek. And that’s with stock £100 wheelset you would need to spend another £1k on carbon wheels.
On my Domane I still ride the 32 mm tyres the bike was delivered with... when I mount new tyres I will probably go a bit slimmer, towards 30 maybe even 28 mm.
Really enjoy the Domane bike.. I believe the bike is the perfect mix of comfort and speed. I usually put on 32 on my Domane bike... I find that width allow a good bit of give and speed on road and allows light gravel. This year grabbed a AL Domane for commuting to work... 1500 miles so fare... super comfortable position and ride quality with speed
I just bought my second Domane. My first was an ALR electric, it got stolen off my Saris bike rack a few weeks ago. The second that I just purchased is a SL 6 Gen 4. I’m sold, it’s a great riding bike for those of us that don’t race and just want to go out for a 20 mile ride without feeling like the bike is to slow, to heavy, not fashionable or lacks technology. My ALR road like a Cadillac, heavy and smooth. In two plus years of riding that I used the electric assist maybe 3 times. The bike really didn’t need electric assist. The Fuza motor worked well when I turned it on, but it’s not for everyone. My SL6 Gen 4 is a different ride. It’s carbon fiber with electric shifting. It rides light and strong. The shifting is quick and light regardless if you are putting all your weight on one pedal or coasting down hill. The electronic shifting is really nice. It also has ISO speed which my ALR didn’t have. That’s a nice touch as well. The bike rides light, smooth and fast! For those who say the Damone is no longer relevant, I say give me something better and I’ll drop $5000 on it, because I haven’t found a better bike yet! I hope this post helps those that are thinking about buying a Damone. Go ride one, form your own opinion!
I recently bought a Trek Checkpoint. My first gravel bike. In hindsight the Domane would have been better for me. I ride it 80% on the road and have found the 40mm tyres it came fitted with are more than enough for the type of gravel I ride. I could put similar tyres on the Domane.
I have two wheelsets (with 32mm tyres and 40mm tyres) on my Canyon Grail and I am very happy with the performance. But for me as a customer its good to choose from a full range of choices. So i hope endurance bikes stay relevant to offer opportunities for every kind of requirements, we live in flatlands, in the Mountains or something in between.
Well I am never sure what makes a good bike, but I think its always the one that works best for the individual. The fits are always a mystery process that seems to have to be designed individually for all the variations in a persons structure. Finding the fit is almost impossible as the body changes faster in time than the bike. I have found a few fits in my life , one Italian bike,one French bike,Seven bike ,older Domane, (new one could not ride) and a Canon bike. I have changed over time and the bikes stayed the same.
I think an endurance road bike is a better all round bike than a gravel bike tbh. (I like my gravel bike but riding it all day on road can be tedious), In my part of the world at least there are far more roads than gravel paths. And an aero bike is too expensive and too uncomfortable.
I don't see the point of the Domane if a rider wants to ride gravel in any capacity. I went with the 2022 Checkpoint SL6 and can swap between 2 wheelsets for the type of riding I'm going out to do. For mixed riding and/or gravel dedicated, I ride the Bontrager Pro3V with CinturatoH 40mm tires. For dedicated road, I run the Bontrager Aeolus Pro51 with 28mm Pirelli tires and latex tubes. Absolutely LOVE that setup as a one bike for everything type of setup. I can ride higher speed road runs and then swap wheels and take the bike on mountain bike trails and gravel. Checkpoint just seems the best option for a one bike solution as you can always run narrower tires on a wide frame but can't run wider tires on a narrow frame.
Think it depends how off road the "gravel" you plan to ride is. I intend to only ride very light gravel here in the UK and the Domane is perfect for that as 90% of my riding will be on road. If your ratio leans closer to off road at say 60/40, then sure get a Checkpoint.
I have a 2021 Domane SL5 with Bontrager Pro 51 wheelset riding on 28mm Gatorskins. The wheelset is a MAJOR speed upgrade and I prefer the 28 over the 32 mm. I love the bike and have ridden 108 mi in one day as well as 65 milers on Skyline Drive in Front Royal, VA. I'm considering upgrading to the 2023 SL6 with Di2 as I ride a lot. Good video too.
I have the previous generation Domane with SRAM components and have not been able to use 38s. I do use my bike with 35s on light grave and and they work fine.
Endurance geometry makes way more sense to the majority of people. Besides, 32mm max, the max being the keyword is still not enough. 38mm here in the domane is really big clearance. I think 34/35mm max (which allows a 32mm tire with wide wheels) is the sweetspot for an endurance/racier bike. The enve fits the bill. Racier geometry but ability to easily go 32/34mm tires. The 32mm max from most racing bikes is not enough for an all-day, 7 days on a row bike.
The stack measurement of race bikes has been getting *less* aggressive over the last 10 years. Having options is good though, as everyone's body, level of fitness, riding style, goals are different... so, yes, "endurance" bikes are relevant, however you want to label/market them.
Sounds great, but the reality has been hugely disappointing. Quite how a major brand can send out bikes with the wrong seatpost is beyond me. Took 6 weeks to replace it with the right size! Also I'm dubious about the components - even though I bought the AL3 - as free hub needed replacing after 400 miles. Great looking bike but these are basic issues that shouldn't exist.
Negative on the top tube mounts. I have little use for a gravel bike, but in as much an endurance bike is essentially a regular road bike I definetly see a use for an endurance bike and I hope they will still offer one when I buy my next bike because thats what I'm going for.
I just got my domane this month and I love the relaxed geometry on it. I tried a gravel bike 3 months ago and I didn't like the very aggressive riding position on it (Cube Nuroad).
No, you shouldn‘t buy it, no matter how good this bike is: 10.000 € for the ultegra version, 10.500 € for force axs is nothing but insane. And honestly, on paper, I love this bike …
I think you also have to take in the condition of the roads in the area that you ride in. The Domane is perfect for most Maine roads as they are not perfect by any means. Cracks, bumps, and potholes are everywhere.
Your questions about the endurance Domane and the Gravel bikes are especially apropos for me right now. I’m looking back and forth between these two bikes and can’t really make up my mind yet. Do I buy the Checkpoint and use smaller 35mm or 32mm tires, or do I go with the Domane? Certainly the Checkpoint is more versatile. It can be used for touring, I suppose, while the Domane is more for the road rather than off-road or gravel, which I also like. And the Domane has a larger chain ring, which enables faster riding on the road. So, yes, I believe that the endurance bikes have a future, especially if you’re looking for comfort on the road as well as an experience moving over rougher terrain. Yet, I still haven’t made up my mind, so the squeeze between these two bikes can be torturous.
A brilliant review David! I love what you do - keep up the greatness! I was looking at getting the previous Domane LT+ at one stage but the cable routing and rear isospeed made me turn away, so I agree with the point you made.
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I think a better question is, for the vast majority of cyclists, whether racing bikes are still relevant, given most of us don't race. And neither do many of us still retain the flexibility to take full advantage of them. The comfort afforded by endurance bikes, particularly on longer rides, seems far more paramount than finishing your ride a few minutes faster.
Agree, I have a 2021 Domane SLR and an first edition Emonda ALR and love them both. I was looking at the Emonda SLR and found that I really enjoy the Domane and the weight is just not a huge concern for me, if it was that big of a deal, I would give up ice cream, but, no. :)
Right said.
Thank you and well said!!! I enjoy watching bike races BUT i am not intending to compete in Crit races or an endurance race like the Roubaix. I just enjoy cycling for the pure enjoyment as i am sure most average people do. Too much emphasis is placed on racing, technology and the newest gadget that can ne put on to a bike to make sales. Bike manufacturers need to place far more emphasis on the love of riding in all types of conditions. Simply put, get more people riding bikes by bringing down these outrageous prices being charged to simply own and ride a bike. After all it’s still just a bike.
Racing bikes are not relevant for majority of these weekend warriors period. Its their ego and wanting to look like a pro who can’t even podium on any races they enter into. Its pretty delusional. But if it makes them more healthy and cycle more then i support that. There will always be a suckers that buys marketing hype bs unfortunately.
I agree, but so many aren't commenting on where gravel fits, they just stop at road. Gravel is the bike that will kill endurance, not road with big tires. Non race oriented gravel, that is.
I am a Trek dealer in New York City. We sell, by far, more Domane than Emonda and Madone put together. David, for sure, Endurance/"All Road" bikes are getting squeezed on either side, however, the Domane is the best, "Real Person" bike. Not overly racy, nor is it a bicycle version of Ewan and Charlie. It's the road bike for most of us. I, for one, love this bike. Ain't jus' sayin it, honest! :) Thanks, David!
What're your thoughts of the AL 5? How's the quality of the aluminum? The 100 series kind of makes me nervous, makes me think it's not as well made as the Checkpoint.
As a long time Domane rider I feel the same way. I’ve had 5 mountain bikes and two “race” bikes and at 59 my Domane SL5 has been the perfect bike for the past 10,000km
Ya this guy does not get it he thinks everyone is an idiot while still crying about seatpost and disc brakes
@Jimmy870 the al 5 is great but its pretty stiff ive serviced a couple that have been riden for 2-3 years and they have had little to no issues other than regular maintenance things. the only bent one ive seen was rear ended on a rack but honestly wasnt as mangled as i thought it would be hearing the story on the phone
THE reason to buy a Domane is the relaxed geometry. Unless you are getting paid to ride, your 'speed' means nothing. Being more relaxed and upright makes longer days SO much more ENJOYABLE. Which is what is really important.
Yes!! So true!! Even if I ride 2x Domane SL myself the speed comes so much from how I feel in the body and airflow thru it so to speak. Everyone asks me if my bike is a gravelbike to even tho I have road tires on, tho 38mm but still 12mm cleareance everywhere around fork and so on
@@allemyr I'm running 35 tubeless myself, it's luxury..
@@bikebudha01so why not just get a hybrid bike that’s even more upright ? Just genuinely curious if being upright is more comfortable , why don’t people get hybrid
@@JitinMisra Hybrid bikes don't work for longer rides. To much pressure on the crotch. If you ride a lot, which I do, you want to spread your weight between the crotch and your hands. Also, hybrid don't handle well. They are great for the bike path, but terrible everywhere else.
@@bikebudha01 what’s your limit in terms of distance , for hybrid bikes ? I only did 8-10 miles but I only consider road bike, because I feel like it engages your hips and glutes more
Endurance bikes still are the best option for most riders due to their geometry more applicable to riders who haven’t got the body mass of Kate Moss or an FTP of 300w.
Race bikes still have aggressive geometry which means sore neck and shoulders for most.
Race bikes if you race and endurance for the rest.
You are talking lots of sense mate. But most delusional weekend warrior thinks they can ride race geometry bikes. Theres a reason why after a few months you will see these bikes on sale 🤷♂️🤣🤣🤣
Why not go for more aero position. I am cycling for exercise and improve my overall stamina, at the same time improve my pr. When a peloton overtake me, I do really need those aero position and chase them, keep up with them, save a lot of energy at higher speed, so fun.
Even you have endurance bike, when the time come, you still need the aero position.
Even weekend rider still riding fast in peloton at 40km/h minimum.
Conclusion, know your objective, need and body capability and buy either race or endurance bike.
@@apair4002 why you want aero when you cant sustain it for hours? 🤷♂️ want to look like a pro but with a body of average punter right? It dont make sense mate 🤦♂️ comfort and power are king for average weekend warriors like you and majority of people taking cycling.
@@apair4002 many of us don't ride in peloton. I mainly see people cycling on their own and when it's more it's usually 2 or 3 no more. So riding at 40kph is not really a THING for us mere mortals...
I am riding a new Emonda SL5 on a daily commute and weekend warrior efforts after my 2018 Emonda SL died in a crash earlier this year. I have to say the H1.5 geometry with Pirelli tubeless 28mm is a significantly more comfortable ride than my 2018 frame. It is a bit slower (probably because of the added weight (frame, disc, and wheels) but overall glad I went with the Emonda over Domane, which my local bike shop tried to sell.
I ride 80% road 20% gravel but I wouldn't purchase an Emonda because the head tube is too short for my liking (30 mm shorter). I wouldn't purchase a pure Checkpoint as the head tube is even shorter than the Emonda and the reach is longer than both bikes. The Domane is perfect for this 62 year old who isn't getting more limber with age, only worse. Endurance bikes are perfect and I hope they continue building them. Great video and your question is a great talking point.
100% agree with you. The geometry prevented me from getting a Checkpoint. The Domane, on the other hand, is the best there is out there for my body proportions and bike fit.
I think stack height is more important than top tube length for this right? Checkpoint is slightly higher. Also the frame reach being longer is compensated for with a shorter stem.
In March 2022 I purchased a 61CM Checkpoint SL6 eTap (it started as a 2021 but because I had to wait 10 months it became 2022) and have ridden about 2,300 miles on it including two 100-mile century rides. It replaced my 16yr old Trek Madone. I am in my early 60s and ride about 90% road and 10% gravel mainly in the Santa Cruz mountains with roads that have 4% to 15% portions. Originally thought I would have liked a Domane but the one in my size through my local dealer still isn't arriving until October (so maybe a 2023 model now?). It is almost an impossibility to have two different models of the correct size that you can try out at the same time before you buy. I do like the Checkpoint. I now have two wheelsets, and mainly ride on 32c road tires, the other has 40c MB tires. Hard to say if I would have liked the Domane more. The gear ratio of the Checkpoint with the Rival 40t chainring and 10-44 cassette works where I live. It would be nice to have a slightly larger gear range for those occasional times when you are on the flats with a tailwind but I am not in my 40s anymore and also great to not deal with two chainrings. Whichever way one goes, I highly recommend electronic shifting.
I thought it was just me getting less flexible. That’s a relief 😎 Well said. Ride good!
Endurance bikes are absolutely relevant, from a geometry standpoint. Most of us are not suited for long and low race bikes. For me, even my Domane ALR is still a tiny bit too short and too low (given my short arms and bad back)
I remember when you couldn’t get a TREK bike for pre embargo testing. Now yow you have the only one in the UK. Not early, but still a privilege to be amongst the first. I haven’t seen anyone else review it yet.
Wouldn’t be possible without your support Frankie 👍
A great review, as always. SLR 6 with Shimano 105 for USD$8000. The top model SLR 9 with SAM RED USD$13200. The world has gone made.
incredible. you drop 8K and get a 105 groupset. Seriously Trek?
@@Aramis7 I got the $4k Sl4 with mechanical 105...Think that is the way to go price wise ..bit ya..i hear ya
I have a 2020 SL6 and it rides like a dream! the frame geometry fits like a glove, better than and with zero touch point modifications that I need to (or have needed to) on my full on race bikes. Gravel bikes are toads, the bigger tires don't 'plane' above smooth roads like a proper road bike. My Domane glides over the pavement with ease unlike a gravel bikes I have ridden (Diverge) and climbs like a mountian goat and is super comfortable despite being a few pounds heavier than my other road bikes. 50+ mile rides at a whim and I feel great at the end of the ride! Endurance bikes have a future because they are road race fast and they're a lot more comfortable than say a Madone. Endurance bikes are fast bikes for regular people.
I think endurance bikes will stay sort of relevant for genral public due to geometry. Racing geometry is getting so aggressive these days that only really fit people will fit ( no pun intended). An if you're not interested in gravel the endurance may be the way to go. I'm on that situation since the geometry of my 10 years old TCR is more similar to todays Defy than the new TCR.
Yep its all abbout the geometry, and also some of the "comfort" features, like flexible seat posts (great if you have a bad back...). Some gravel bikes are also getting really aggressive geometry wise.
Agree and to build on this point as a long-legged, short torso rider, for some people a "race" geometry will never fit without significant modification regardless of how much work has been put into core stability and flexibility exercises. The whole categorization of "endurance" vs "race" fit needs to be discarded by the manufacturers from my point of view as it enforces the false narrative that getting lower and stretchier is always better, regardless of body type - that is simply not the case.
Exactly, endurance geometry is basically what the majority of people really need lol.
Seen a few folk out on stupid high seat to low bars and short wheelbase. Very slow and unstable in traffic and, I guess, not great for reading the road any distance ahead. At 67, I can ride much lower than most and prefer to do so with toes down but the guys I've seen around my area just look awkward and unhappy on their bikes
We are all getting older and the older we get the more relevant endurance geometry becomes. I’m 75 and ride an older Domane that doesn’t even have internal cables. It’s fantastic and I hope to still be riding it for years.
I’ve been riding my Gen 4 Domane SL6 eTap for about 3 weeks, the bike is amazing. I’m a 55 y/o - I’m a petite 208 pounds 😂 I bought this bike because I enjoy the endurance geometry, I upgraded from a 2019 Gen 3 Domane SL6, the new bike is lighter and rides faster and still extremely comfortable. I ride around 250-300 miles a month, usually in 20-30 mile chunks and for me it over delivers, it’s really fun riding this new bike. I think this bike fits a broad range of cyclist, let’s face it we all can’t ride in the Tour de France 🇫🇷. But when your riding this bike you almost feel like you are, SRAM drivetrain is awesome and works flawlessly, I’m running the Bontrager R3 tires tubeless 32c and they are great so far. I have to tip my hat to Trek they made a comfortable endurance bike, that can stand up to anything with your average Joe behind the bars.
I lucked upon one yesterday. I got a SLR 7 etap on sale as another local shop was having a taking over by Trek Corp sale and my shop did not want to lose sales, so they matched it. I picked up my bike for 30% off... just lucked into this deal. Moved wheels, saddle, pedals, etc, today, got all the parts synched and firmware updated, got the powermeter setup. Taking my maiden voyage tomorrow morning.
@@justsomedude7556 What a great deal! I test rode a Gen 4 SLR6 today and it excited me at how it handled and how smooth, refined and quiet it was on bumpy roads. Gotta get one. Holding out for an SLR Ultegra Di2 ..Might be a while. Or I could grab the SLR6 with Rival eTap. I just don't feel the love for Rival eTap.
@@gair1944 I was always a Shimano guy, prior Domane was di2 Ultegra, I have to say, I am digging the eTap. I am looking at converting an older bike that is not di2 compatible. Just a little relearning of the gearing of the 46/33 versus the 50/34. I am glad I took the chance
The Domane is a popular bike in Wisconsin, Trek's home state, as it allows for exploring our lumpy roads and occasional gravel bike trails w/o feeling beat-up at the end of the ride. My 2020 SL7 is by far the nicest bike to ride that I've ever owned in 35+ years of cycling. The Gen 4 model addresses the one issue I have with my Gen 3, that being the seat post mast allowing water into the frame.
Are the differences between the SL7 generations documented somewhere?
I have a 2022 SLR Domane and a 2020 SLR Emonda. I live in the San Francisco Bay area where the roads are poor, and in my area, the gravel is too rocky for your average gravel bike - more mt. bike terrain. That said, I've fitted out my Domane with tubeless Gravel King SS tires (32C on the front, 35C on the back.) My Emonda has tubeless Conti 5000 tires both 32C, though the bike isn't specked for that large a size but they fit fine. For long distance riding 60-100 miles (100 to 160km) I prefer the Domane. When I'm hammering with my club mates, and the rides are shorter, I prefer the Emonda. On a long ride, say a century...I feel pretty beat at the end when using the Emonda, where as the Domane is very plush, plush enough that I notice the difference between the two on longer rides. I'm 65 years old and have been riding for years. I average 200 miles (320km) per week. Prior to Covid, I was still racing and if I start racing again I will use the Emonda. But if you have rough roads, and you like long even paces rides, the Domane is king. So after a long winded comment, I believe endurance bikes are still relevant and I'm fortunate that I have both an Emonda and a Domane.
Exceptionally impressive for your age! Rice on.
Great feedback, very impressive! 🎉
Thanks. I'm now 68 years old and riding around 250 miles (400km)/week at an average of 17-18 mph (a bit under 30km). Though I still have the same Domane I now use a Cervelo Caledonia. Though labeled as an endurance bike by Cervelo, I made a few mods to make it so; better wheels (Zipp 303 FC), and replaced the seat tube, stem and bars w/Zipp carbon versions. The Caledonia comes with Al versions and makes the bike less compliant. It's quite a bit lighter than the Domane and little more race oriented but still comfortable over long rides.
@@BobGrove hope to watch more videos from you with the Cervelo 🙏😊
I’ve been riding a Domane since 2017 and it’s perfect for urban riding (NYC) and anything from short after work rides to weekend century’s. Average speeds from 15 to 20mph depending on distance and elevation, which I think covers most use cases and rider types.
That said…I replaced stock alloy wheels with Hunt 50mm carbon and saved about 1lb, but still around 17lbs with cages and power meter (Assioma duo) pedals, which is at least 1lb heavier than it should be in a damn size small frame! 🤯
For someone like me who does a wide variety of surfaces from smooth tarmac to hard pack gravel and urban pothole broken pavement, it’s great. It climbs and descends fine, not super fast straight but again, fine. Can put down close to 1,000 watts and the frame doesn’t feel like it’s torquing or flexing (and if so, very very little).
For 99% of recreational riders, a Domane SL with carbon wheels and 105 mechanical is enough, 99% of the time.
I have a Domane with two wheelsets. Currently running 32c GP5K on the road wheelset and 38c GravelKing SS+ on the "gravel" wheelset. I'm not doing tons of big chunky gravel or long runs of single track but I've been pretty impressed by the capability of the bike.
totally agree, a dedicated gravel wheel set (30mm) on my Roubaix works fine on most of the gravel I ride, and I still have my road wheels for the bulk of my riding. 👍
This is EXACTLY my use case. 90%+ riding on weekends/evenings with the Group Ride, larger guy so I want wider tires than 28mm, not a weight weanie. I've thought long and hard about aero frame but the reality that a set of tri bars on a round handlebar that gets my body in a good position will save more watts than flat handlebars and an aero frame. Totally interested in taking up gravel and with a second set of wheels, this one frame can do both.
Which Trek model/Gen do you own?
What set of rims are you using on the GP5k, resp. Gravelking?
@@torstenkenning it's a Domane Gen III and I use the stock Bontrager Affinity disc for the Gravel King. I had an extra of the same for the GP5k until this year when I upgraded to the Aeolus Pro 3V.
Have a Domane AL4 that is used 90% of the time for long rail trails on crushed limestone. I was able to fit a set of Pirelli Cinturato Gravel H 40c tires on this bike with frame clearance to spare. The front derailleur needed to be changed to a 105 R7000, otherwise the Tiagra 4700 long arm would touch the tire. Extremely happy with this setup for long distance on light gravel.
For those of us that don't race or aren't comfortable with the head-in-your-crotch style of riding necessitated by low stack height road-race bikes, the endurance bikes offered are not only relevant, they're damn near a necessity. Riding
twenty-five to fifty miles with friends to grab a sandwich and a coffee then returning home on roads that while still paved are far worse than even our broken-up interstates is better done with a touch of comfort on an endurance bike than a touch of cramps on a race bike.
Like I said this dud is full of it... I have diec brake and love external cables ... so I like the things other people don't like 🙃 wah wah
I have a 2021 Domane SL5 & I love it. I’ve been riding a Domane sense 2013. I’m not a racer I just enjoy riding. So I’m interested in the new Domane. Can’t wait to throw my leg over the saddle .
I have a an emonda but I had a chance to ride the domane and I found it super comfortable.
How is the Domane AL vs SL series different in geometry ? On paper they are same but I find they felt different , no?
@@JitinMisra . The SL5 is smoother vs a aluminum bike. The carbon frame and ISO speed helps.
David, I think you are looking at Endurance road bikes from the wrong angle, they are more than wider tyres it's the geometry that makes them an endurance bike a shorter top tube a higher stack etc. whether they continue to be relevant depends on market forces I guess.
I have both a Giant Revolt advanced Pro gravel bike and a Giant Defy advanced Pro endurance bike and the similarities between the two bikes are huge. The Defy feels faster and more agile but on Strava the times between the two bikes are very similar. As for endurance bikes I still feel there relevant as I’d gladly swap the Defy for a TCR if it wasn’t for the more stretched out position which kills my neck :(( when your older David you might well see the benefits of a less aggressive position.
I sold my Pinarello endurance bike to buy a Giant TCR. I’m very happy with the switch, I go much faster now and I’m not experiencing fatigue more than before. I actually find the TCR more enjoyable
This seems like more of an 'every dude' bike as opposed to a Madone and I'd love to try one -- even with balloon tires, the Madone will be a challenging ride for most people due to the lower stack height and aggressive geometry. One of my (minor) gripes with Trek is the garish, comically large logo on the downtube and yes, I have a Trek but an older, more modest generation. They should have a "subtle logo" option liike that pretty new Madone in your shop (better keep that locked up well!).
I have ridden the Emonda and Domane and loved both of them, for what they were designed for. The Emonda was great for climbing in the hills around Los Angeles, and the Domane was great for the 235 mile tour I did this past weekend. Yes, you can customize a road or gravel bike to get close to an endurance bike, but you still have to customize it (more cash out of pocket). My Domane is still running on all factory components. No customization (of frame or components) needed.
David, you have the best content of this type on TH-cam. Good job. Keep up the great work.
Thanks 🙏
Endurance bike to me is still relevant. I have a 2022 Domane AL2 the comfort got me back into road cycling again after not riding road since 2016
I think they're still relevant. I own a 22 Domane SLR and a 22 Madone SLR and a '17 Salsa Warbird for gravel. For shorter rides where I want speed, I'll take the race bike, but I do endurance work on weekends of 100+ miles, even did a 200 miler this past year. My Domane is hands down more comfortable on anything beyond 2 hours in the saddle. If you're just riding around doing under 50 miles on your rides, what ever - Get the bike you want... But if you're not being paid to ride like a pro and you're riding 5-14 hour rides, endurance bikes certainly have a place and I feel they're the right tool for the job in that circumstance. I run 32mm wide tires on my Pro 3V wheel set (37 mm depth / 25 mm inner width) and 28's on my RSL 37's.
I value the comfort of endurance bike geometry on 40 - 50 mile rides. Most definitely. 65 years old. Love to ride. Don't race obviously, but love the sport of cycling 'comfortably'.
Love my domane since its the more road-focused gravel bike in my opinion. Everything is one by and for the 20-30% of gravel I do, having a spare set of wheels with 40c tires to put on is a great all-rounder bike. With a slammed -10 degree stem, you can get a plenty aggressive sitting position for the road to get nice and aero.
I ride a DOMANE .
I run 38 mm Gravelking Slicks, tubeless.
I absolutely love it.
Owner of a Domane SL7 2021 eTap SRAM Force- Im very pleased with the bike. I changed tires from 28 to 32 so it can be now used as allround bike, long distances/endurance,taking the hills very well,light gravel as well.All good :)
GCN Tech just did (9/8/2022) a poll question asking what type of bike geometry is preferred. Race or endurance and the results from the viewers was 62% preferred endurance geometry to 38% for race geometry.
Interesting and tells you a lot about their audience, but generally endurance bikes have been higher sellers than pure race bikes for most bike brands over the years
I like my endurance bike (Giant Contend AR 1) with various upgrades like carbon handlebars and custom alloy wheelset because the geometry is more comfortable (I am middle aged) and I like the 32c tubless tires to prevent flats. It has endurance gearing (11-34 and 50-34) which helps on the hills even if it isn't as fast. It allows me to ride on rougher pavement and light gravel and make my rides more adventurous, trying new routes.
I've got a 2022 Domane SL 5 and in my gravel set up, I am running Paradigm Comp 25 wheels with GravelKing SK 38mm tires. My aero set up includes Aeolus Pro51 wheels with GP5000 32mm tires.
Endurance bikes are the best pick especially if you can't follow (n+1) formula. They are basically good bikes for the road and good enough for majority of the gravel riding and anything in between (like CX:). I'm personally riding on a budget: simple Fuji Sportifwith up to 38mm tires that allows me to ride anything from group rides, centuries, gravel, local mtb trails and CX and it's all for the fracture of the price of nowadays endurance bikes😃👌🏼 Long live the endurance bikes🤘🏼
I have 2020 Domane SL5 and love it. I ride it every day if weather allows. The only upgrade I made was a saddle swap to specialized power mimic. This bike will stay with me for years to come :)
I have a 2021 Domane SL5. Doing about 100-150 miles of riding a week on tarmac with the stock setup and I think it rides exceptional. Done a small amount of gravel with 32mm hybrid tires and it was okay. Thinking 38 or 40 mm gravel tires would help. Overall, my version of the Domane is great for the rode and can handle light gravel stuff without an issue. My thinking the endurance bikes will be around for a long time because they are for everyday riders and the long distance riders.
David, you make a great point about the endurance vs gravel differentiator - Domane vs Checkpoint - one is mostly road with some gravel and the other is mostly gravel with some road. I'm perfectly happy to be in the Domane camp with 80% road use with the occasional gravel riding. My goal is to acquire a second set of wheels where one set will have gravel tires mounted, the other with road. I plan to rid myself of the MTN Giant hardtail I've had for a couple of years.
Yes, I believe endurance bikes will remain relevant due to geometry and the vast number of older riders who seek the comfort for long days over tarmac.
I use my 2019 Domane as a gravel bike. Done 1000 km of rough gravel riding with no issues. Running Bontrager GR2 tyres in 40 mm and still enough clearance -never had an issue. Agree that front Isospeed is more of a gimmick than real benefit. That D shaped seat post is a real hassle. Can't fit any dropper post.
I'm considering the same thing. Use it as commuter and gravel bike. It fits tires up to 35mm with fenders.
Absolutely no reason that a D shaped dropper post can't be made, c'mon Trek !
I think that endurance road bikes are still the sweet spot for many cyclists who ride primarily or exclusively on the road. Race bikes usually have aggressive geometry that most of us don't find as comfortable and won't take much advantage of the aero improvements with that body position. New endurance bikes are giving plenty of clearance for wider tires so going to a gravel bike isn't needed if not venturing off road and needing even more clearance. I find the Domane to be comparatively expensive and instead chose to order a Fairlight Strael steel bike that ends up pretty close in weight (sub 9kg) to the Domane and considerably less expensive at a similar spec (Ultegra Di2).
Great videos today. I’m a Big fan of Trek I’ll have the One behind you thanks. Keep up the good work 👍👍🚴♂️🚴♂️
Hi David, due to the availability issues many brands suffer lately, I spend last months watching a lot of review videos on your channel…looking for the ultimate, suitable bike for myself but seems I still haven’t found it.
During these months of reviewing I decided that it should be an endurance bike for me. Longer rides on the flat Dutch roads and occasionally on the Italian/abroad gravel. Would love to see Trek offer a 1x setup on the Domane…but they don’t…😏
Keep up the good work on your channel and get the 2023 Domane quickly 😉😃 on the road for a real review!
Yes, endurance bikes are still relevant to me.
I feel like Domane is a quiver killer, would be for me. Over the years I slowly migrated from pure gravel rigs to a more sportier gravel bikes wit clearance up to 40 mm and their great. For anything more I have a hardtail and a fullsusser. I’d like meself a Domane. Only problem, there is no Trek dealer in my country and I will not be bothered to import myself, because then the field turns immensely wider so to speak. Looks good though, the Domane.
I like the top tube mounts. I have marred my paint on my SL6 because of my top tube bag. I use it for longer rides (60miles+) to store lip balm, wallet, gels, sunscreen, etc.
Endurance road bikes are relevant and it's obviously not just about tire clearance, its about geometry. I think a bunch of consumers want a fast light pure road bike with a geometry a bit less aggressive than one used by a 25 year old pro rider. For gravel I have a gravel bike. It is a different animal. In fact, companies would be advised to make more bikes along the lines of a Canyon Endurace. Once you get a little older you'll understand (or maybe not since you once shilled ceramic bearings for the steerer tube). And companies need to know that relevance to a pro rider in a single race shouldn't necessarily drive all their decisions on what bikes they will actually sell to people who are actually paying for their bikes. Fortunately Tek seems to get this.
I went to a custom built 2019 Orbea Avant endurance bike for the upright riding position. I am in my mid 50’s and race bikes are just uncomfortable. My last race bike was a 2019 Specialized Venge, it was fast but not fun on long rides. My recent purchase is a 2022 3t Exploro Racemax with 650b and its great for gravel and some pavement. I feel like there is still a need for endurance bikes but would like to try the Orbea Orca to see if it’s comfortable on long rides. Long rides for me are 70 to 100 miles.
Been selling bikes 17 years. This year's hot bikes Cannondale Topstone and alloy Domane along with carbon Domane however lack of stock hitting the carbon market hard. Could sell them week in week out. Diverge popular too. Accommodating an aging bike buying market. Kids are not buying bikes.
Many people have said it already, but geometry is key on this. I'm ~188cm tall, am all leg, and have wide shoulders. These newer race bikes with really aggressive geometry are just tough for me to ride and I don't necessarily want my gravel bike to double as my road bike. The geometry of these bikes may mean they don't have the sick looks of a race bike, but you're only as fast as you can somewhat comfortably ride a bike.
I feel they definitely still are relevant as road conditions, especially back roads are in bad shape and the wider tires do afford a bit of security and comfort for these conditions. Also as others have mentioned the ergonomics of an endurance bike are very welcoming especially to us riders that are in our senior years. Comfort over rides speed.
I value the comfort of endurance bike geometry on modest 40 - 50 mile rides. A lot of people in my local cycling clubs value the comfort of endurance bikes on group rides, I am 65 years old, in decent shape but I value the more relaxed comfort the geometry offers as well as compliance from a well designed carbon fiber bike. I love the sport of cycling and love it. more when I can do it 'comfortably'.
Endurance bikes fall in the sweet spot for me. Generally riding loops 30-100km directly from my house in the suburbs, average quality tarmac with some of my routes going over 15-35 km light gravel sections occasionally. I ride a Domane and its giving me juste the right performance when i feel like pushing for a good segment time, just the right confidence when hopping across those gravel sections and most importantly, allows me to still sit down for dinner after a 100+ km afternoon ride. If I bought a gravel bike, I would have to load it up in the car and drive to gravel-land to have fun, much like I already do for mtb.
I love my top tube bag and my next bike will absolutely have a dedicated mount. I’m done with Velcro. I don’t understand why such a simple feature is not standard on an endurance bike.
Currently running 2022 Domane with both front and rear isospeed. Love the bike. I am older and enjoy long rides 30 mile runs. Love the endurance series. Buddy riding a Specialized Roubaix, also enjoys the endurance geometry and ride. Hope the companies continue with the endurance style frames.
I have a 2021 SLR Domane and it all depends on the season for me. I run 28mm tires in the spring and summer and I’ll occasionally go to either 32 or 35mm during the cooler seasons. Been very happy with it
GCN did a survey and endurance bikes came out on top, so I presume that is what most people (non-racers) want.
Yes, absolutely! I just got an SLR7 with Aeolus RSL 51 wheels and RSL Aero handlebars. Couldn't be happier!!!!
Have the 2020 sl 5. Used it for touring, bikepacking, grand fondos, crits, gravel races, and commuting. It's even a size too small but idgaf it's so damn comfortable and versatile
Still rocking a 2013 Domane here. Still seems relevant. Still love riding it.
Most riders get a race bike because that is what the pros ride. They think...I just have to have one of those because that is what so and so is riding. Unless your serious about racing, most riders should get a endurance bike. I would love to have a Trek Domane.
I am glad they updated the IsoSpeed as you mentioned, I've adjusted twice when I first got the bike and have not touched it. I would consider getting the frameset and moving over my current setup from my current Domane versus buying the full build. edit: I happened onto one of these in the SLR 7 eTap that dropped into my lap. Rides like a dream.
Yes, I think they are still relevant. In fact, I think one of the smartest things Trek did is to offer an ebike version of the Domane for old guys like me who want the road bike experience, and be able to handle long rides in comfort on all kinds of roads.
I'd say this is a better 'all round' bike than the Canyon earlier reviewed......
And to answer the question - Yes, these bikes are really what the majority of riders should be riding, especially if you ride on the awful roads of the UK. Comfort is king.
I'm on my 4th Domane, and they've all managed gravel, even the rim braked versions. This is on my radar....
2020 Domane SL7 here, I run 30mm road tires and 35mm gravel. The bike is a tad heavy, but it absolutely suits my needs wonderfully. I've bike packed with it as well. Not sure there is a need for the rsl pro version, however, for consumers, I suspect the diet the Domane received, is going to make the new model a great option for endurance and recreation riders.
My 6.7kg (with pedals) Domane from 2014 still way faster and lighter than these new PITA to work on Domanes.
I got my Domane in 2020 and rarely use big tyres (38mm) but it is useful. Primarily for road backpacking however I’ve now got a separate gravel bike so for anything rough that gets used. I normally ride the Domane with 32mm GP5000 STR’s, fine for long days, club ride but also the club TT’s and Crits!
An endurance bike is the perfect bike for me so I certainly hope they stay relevant! I want the all day, many kilometer comfort an endurance road bike geometry offers but I don't need nor want a gravel bike because there are very few gravel roads where I live and even fewer that are worth riding.
I'm buying a new endurance bike to replacing my ten year Look 566.
Comfort for my regular 30km-50km solo rides is my main focus. Relaxed geometry is essential. I'm also looking forward to getting 32mm tyres.
Is a new Domane a better option than a new Specialised Roubaix? (I'm not too worried about price as i only spend money on a replacement bike every 10 years or so, i just ride them stock and don't do upgrades).
Any advice greatly appreciated from Domane owners
SLR Damane 2020 which I LOVE! I ride country roads in the US midwest and every summer there is fresh gravel dumped on these road and the tires I put on are 38s. I love them and notice they are much more stable on those roads with and without gravel and I feel safer and the tires filled to 65 psi makes for a comfortable ride. I had to ride my older FX/3 recently for a week and I could not believe the difference, all the bumps and road vibration is much more tiring, as is the heavier bike generally.
Why not just have both? Flip your stem and you have increased stack height. Oh wait....the new bikes dont let you do that as they have proprietary over priced one piece bar and stem combo lol
Definitely relevant.
For my next bike I am confused between Domane or Defy!
I think it depends on your level of cycling - as a racer i would look at the Domane but the SLR version with H1.5 geometry , this way i get the racey geometry i am after with a more compliant smoother ride for our terrible roads. For me that offers a fantastic UK specific bike now with a more aero frame and lighter weight!! Most people riding sub 20mph do not warrant an aero bike or even deep wheels so these bike do have a place!
I used to think they had no place but now I think they are a really good option. My wife who is not hard core can ride a nice road bike that she could race on and then have a spare set of wheels for light gravel which is perfect
I think they are awesome all round bikes that does everything well other than single track
Yes, there’s a future for road bikes with a geometry more suited for the masses (i.e., higher stack, shorter reach) than found in “race” bikes. Whether it’s called a “gravel” bike or an “endurance” bike is just marketing smoke
I have the 2021 Domane SL 5 and have kept the bike stock on the 32s. I'm >50, so a relaxed geo of an edurance bike suites me! It's a pity they have finally realized they need to drop the weight as the 21 SL5 is just a tad over 10KG with peddles!!! Absoutely ridiculous for a modern 105 carbon bikel And now £4.4K for the new 105 di2 2023 version - wacko. If it hadn't havd been for the bike shortage during covid, I'd had plumbed for the Scott Addict, but my LBS had plenty of domanes in stock.
The joys of importing to U.K - prices for this bike vs similar brands is ludicrous - almost 4K for a stock 105 group set. That’s almost 25% increase in 12 months by Trek. And that’s with stock £100 wheelset you would need to spend another £1k on carbon wheels.
On my Domane I still ride the 32 mm tyres the bike was delivered with... when I mount new tyres I will probably go a bit slimmer, towards 30 maybe even 28 mm.
Really enjoy the Domane bike.. I believe the bike is the perfect mix of comfort and speed. I usually put on 32 on my Domane bike... I find that width allow a good bit of give and speed on road and allows light gravel.
This year grabbed a AL Domane for commuting to work... 1500 miles so fare... super comfortable position and ride quality with speed
I just bought my second Domane. My first was an ALR electric, it got stolen off my Saris bike rack a few weeks ago. The second that I just purchased is a SL 6 Gen 4.
I’m sold, it’s a great riding bike for those of us that don’t race and just want to go out for a 20 mile ride without feeling like the bike is to slow, to heavy, not fashionable or lacks technology.
My ALR road like a Cadillac, heavy and smooth. In two plus years of riding that I used the electric assist maybe 3 times. The bike really didn’t need electric assist. The Fuza motor worked well when I turned it on, but it’s not for everyone.
My SL6 Gen 4 is a different ride. It’s carbon fiber with electric shifting. It rides light and strong. The shifting is quick and light regardless if you are putting all your weight on one pedal or coasting down hill. The electronic shifting is really nice. It also has ISO speed which my ALR didn’t have. That’s a nice touch as well. The bike rides light, smooth and fast!
For those who say the Damone is no longer relevant, I say give me something better and I’ll drop $5000 on it, because I haven’t found a better bike yet!
I hope this post helps those that are thinking about buying a Damone. Go ride one, form your own opinion!
I have a 2022 Domane SL5 and love it. The only thing I've changed is my tire size, 700x30 from 32 and it's great.
I recently bought a Trek Checkpoint. My first gravel bike. In hindsight the Domane would have been better for me.
I ride it 80% on the road and have found the 40mm tyres it came fitted with are more than enough for the type of gravel I ride. I could put similar tyres on the Domane.
I have two wheelsets (with 32mm tyres and 40mm tyres) on my Canyon Grail and I am very happy with the performance. But for me as a customer its good to choose from a full range of choices. So i hope endurance bikes stay relevant to offer opportunities for every kind of requirements, we live in flatlands, in the Mountains or something in between.
Well I am never sure what makes a good bike, but I think its always the one that works best for the individual. The fits are always a mystery process that seems to have to be designed individually for all the variations in a persons structure. Finding the fit is almost impossible as the body changes faster in time than the bike. I have found a few fits in my life , one Italian bike,one French bike,Seven bike ,older Domane, (new one could not ride) and a Canon bike. I have changed over time and the bikes stayed the same.
I think an endurance road bike is a better all round bike than a gravel bike tbh. (I like my gravel bike but riding it all day on road can be tedious), In my part of the world at least there are far more roads than gravel paths. And an aero bike is too expensive and too uncomfortable.
Choices will always be relevant !!!
What size trek is that?
I don't see the point of the Domane if a rider wants to ride gravel in any capacity. I went with the 2022 Checkpoint SL6 and can swap between 2 wheelsets for the type of riding I'm going out to do. For mixed riding and/or gravel dedicated, I ride the Bontrager Pro3V with CinturatoH 40mm tires. For dedicated road, I run the Bontrager Aeolus Pro51 with 28mm Pirelli tires and latex tubes. Absolutely LOVE that setup as a one bike for everything type of setup. I can ride higher speed road runs and then swap wheels and take the bike on mountain bike trails and gravel. Checkpoint just seems the best option for a one bike solution as you can always run narrower tires on a wide frame but can't run wider tires on a narrow frame.
Think it depends how off road the "gravel" you plan to ride is. I intend to only ride very light gravel here in the UK and the Domane is perfect for that as 90% of my riding will be on road. If your ratio leans closer to off road at say 60/40, then sure get a Checkpoint.
I have a 2021 Domane SL5 with Bontrager Pro 51 wheelset riding on 28mm Gatorskins. The wheelset is a MAJOR speed upgrade and I prefer the 28 over the 32 mm. I love the bike and have ridden 108 mi in one day as well as 65 milers on Skyline Drive in Front Royal, VA.
I'm considering upgrading to the 2023 SL6 with Di2 as I ride a lot. Good video too.
I have the previous generation Domane with SRAM components and have not been able to use 38s. I do use my bike with 35s on light grave and and they work fine.
Endurance geometry makes way more sense to the majority of people. Besides, 32mm max, the max being the keyword is still not enough. 38mm here in the domane is really big clearance. I think 34/35mm max (which allows a 32mm tire with wide wheels) is the sweetspot for an endurance/racier bike. The enve fits the bill. Racier geometry but ability to easily go 32/34mm tires. The 32mm max from most racing bikes is not enough for an all-day, 7 days on a row bike.
The stack measurement of race bikes has been getting *less* aggressive over the last 10 years. Having options is good though, as everyone's body, level of fitness, riding style, goals are different... so, yes, "endurance" bikes are relevant, however you want to label/market them.
I have a 2021 Domane SL 6 with Zipp 303s and 28cc Pirelli Race TLR tires. Its phenomenal. My first time with 28cc on this bike
Sounds great, but the reality has been hugely disappointing. Quite how a major brand can send out bikes with the wrong seatpost is beyond me. Took 6 weeks to replace it with the right size! Also I'm dubious about the components - even though I bought the AL3 - as free hub needed replacing after 400 miles. Great looking bike but these are basic issues that shouldn't exist.
Negative on the top tube mounts. I have little use for a gravel bike, but in as much an endurance bike is essentially a regular road bike I definetly see a use for an endurance bike and I hope they will still offer one when I buy my next bike because thats what I'm going for.
If you had a choice which one would you choose…
2023 Domane SL 6 eTap Gen 4 or Specialized Aethos Comp?
I just got my domane this month and I love the relaxed geometry on it. I tried a gravel bike 3 months ago and I didn't like the very aggressive riding position on it (Cube Nuroad).
No, you shouldn‘t buy it, no matter how good this bike is: 10.000 € for the ultegra version, 10.500 € for force axs is nothing but insane. And honestly, on paper, I love this bike …
Hi David how do you compare this domane to the 3t exploro ekar are they a similar bike in terms of ride feel?
I think you also have to take in the condition of the roads in the area that you ride in. The Domane is perfect for most Maine roads as they are not perfect by any means. Cracks, bumps, and potholes are everywhere.
As a senior citizen rider, I am keen to know if a 2023 Domane+ LT (e-bike) is due soon and if it will get similar upgrades
Your questions about the endurance Domane and the Gravel bikes are especially apropos for me right now. I’m looking back and forth between these two bikes and can’t really make up my mind yet. Do I buy the Checkpoint and use smaller 35mm or 32mm tires, or do I go with the Domane? Certainly the Checkpoint is more versatile. It can be used for touring, I suppose, while the Domane is more for the road rather than off-road or gravel, which I also like. And the Domane has a larger chain ring, which enables faster riding on the road. So, yes, I believe that the endurance bikes have a future, especially if you’re looking for comfort on the road as well as an experience moving over rougher terrain. Yet, I still haven’t made up my mind, so the squeeze between these two bikes can be torturous.
A brilliant review David!
I love what you do - keep up the greatness!
I was looking at getting the previous Domane LT+ at one stage but the cable routing and rear isospeed made me turn away, so I agree with the point you made.
I have a 2019 Domane with full mechanical ultegra rim brake and it’s good enough for me