trek domane al disc review

• >", "name": "top-nav-watch", "type": "link"}}' href="https://watch.outsideonline.com">Watch
• >", "name": "top-nav-learn", "type": "link"}}' href="https://learn.outsideonline.com">Learn
• >", "name": "top-nav-podcasts", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.outsideonline.com/podcast-directory/">Podcasts
• >", "name": "top-nav-maps", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.gaiagps.com">Maps
• >", "name": "top-nav-events", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.athletereg.com/events">Events
• >", "name": "top-nav-shop", "type": "link"}}' href="https://shop.outsideonline.com">Shop
• >", "name": "top-nav-buysell", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.pinkbike.com/buysell">BuySell
• >", "name": "top-nav-outside", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.outsideonline.com/outsideplus">Outside+

Become a Member

Get access to more than 30 brands, premium video, exclusive content, events, mapping, and more.

Already have an account? >", "name": "mega-signin", "type": "link"}}' class="u-color--red-dark u-font--xs u-text-transform--upper u-font-weight--bold">Sign In

Outside watch, outside learn.

• >", "name": "mega-backpacker-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.backpacker.com/">Backpacker
• >", "name": "mega-climbing-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.climbing.com/">Climbing
• >", "name": "mega-flyfilmtour-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://flyfilmtour.com/">Fly Fishing Film Tour
• >", "name": "mega-gaiagps-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.gaiagps.com/">Gaia GPS
• >", "name": "mega-npt-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.nationalparktrips.com/">National Park Trips
• >", "name": "mega-outsideonline-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.outsideonline.com/">Outside
• >", "name": "mega-outsideio-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.outside.io/">Outside.io
• >", "name": "mega-outsidetv-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://watch.outsideonline.com">Outside Watch
• >", "name": "mega-ski-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.skimag.com/">Ski
• >", "name": "mega-warrenmiller-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://warrenmiller.com/">Warren Miller Entertainment

Healthy Living

• >", "name": "mega-ce-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.cleaneatingmag.com/">Clean Eating
• >", "name": "mega-oxy-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.oxygenmag.com/">Oxygen
• >", "name": "mega-vt-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.vegetariantimes.com/">Vegetarian Times
• >", "name": "mega-yj-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.yogajournal.com/">Yoga Journal
• >", "name": "mega-beta-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.betamtb.com/">Beta
• >", "name": "mega-pinkbike-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.pinkbike.com/">Pinkbike
• >", "name": "mega-roll-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.rollmassif.com/">Roll Massif
• >", "name": "mega-trailforks-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.trailforks.com/">Trailforks
• >", "name": "mega-trail-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://trailrunnermag.com/">Trail Runner
• >", "name": "mega-tri-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.triathlete.com/">Triathlete
• >", "name": "mega-vn-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://velo.outsideonline.com/">Velo
• >", "name": "mega-wr-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.womensrunning.com/">Women's Running
• >", "name": "mega-athletereg-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.athletereg.com/">athleteReg
• >", "name": "mega-bicycleretailer-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.bicycleretailer.com/">Bicycle Retailer & Industry News
• >", "name": "mega-cairn-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.getcairn.com/">Cairn
• >", "name": "mega-finisherpix-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.finisherpix.com/">FinisherPix
• >", "name": "mega-idea-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.ideafit.com/">Idea
• >", "name": "mega-nastar-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.nastar.com/">NASTAR
• >", "name": "mega-shop-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.outsideinc.com/outside-books/">Outside Books
• >", "name": "mega-veloswap-link", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.veloswap.com/">VeloSwap
• >", "name": "mega-backpacker-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.backpacker.com/">Backpacker
• >", "name": "mega-climbing-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.climbing.com/">Climbing
• >", "name": "mega-flyfilmtour-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://flyfilmtour.com/">Fly Fishing Film Tour
• >", "name": "mega-gaiagps-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.gaiagps.com/">Gaia GPS
• >", "name": "mega-npt-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.nationalparktrips.com/">National Park Trips
• >", "name": "mega-outsideonline-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.outsideonline.com/">Outside
• >", "name": "mega-outsidetv-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://watch.outsideonline.com">Watch
• >", "name": "mega-ski-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.skimag.com/">Ski
• >", "name": "mega-warrenmiller-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://warrenmiller.com/">Warren Miller Entertainment
• >", "name": "mega-ce-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.cleaneatingmag.com/">Clean Eating
• >", "name": "mega-oxy-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.oxygenmag.com/">Oxygen
• >", "name": "mega-vt-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.vegetariantimes.com/">Vegetarian Times
• >", "name": "mega-yj-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.yogajournal.com/">Yoga Journal
• >", "name": "mega-beta-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.betamtb.com/">Beta
• >", "name": "mega-roll-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.rollmassif.com/">Roll Massif
• >", "name": "mega-trail-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://trailrunnermag.com/">Trail Runner
• >", "name": "mega-tri-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.triathlete.com/">Triathlete
• >", "name": "mega-vn-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://velo.outsideonline.com/">Velo
• >", "name": "mega-wr-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.womensrunning.com/">Women's Running
• >", "name": "mega-athletereg-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.athletereg.com/">athleteReg
• >", "name": "mega-bicycleretailer-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.bicycleretailer.com/">Bicycle Retailer & Industry News
• >", "name": "mega-finisherpix-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.finisherpix.com/">FinisherPix
• >", "name": "mega-idea-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.ideafit.com/">Idea
• >", "name": "mega-nastar-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.nastar.com/">NASTAR
• >", "name": "mega-shop-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://shop.outsideonline.com/">Outside Shop
• >", "name": "mega-vp-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.velopress.com/">VeloPress
• >", "name": "mega-veloswap-link-accordion", "type": "link"}}' href="https://www.veloswap.com/">VeloSwap

2-FOR-1 GA TICKETS WITH OUTSIDE+

Don’t miss Thundercat, Fleet Foxes, and more at the Outside Festival.

GET TICKETS

OUTSIDE FESTIVAL JUNE 1-2

Don't miss Thundercat + Fleet Foxes, adventure films, experiences, and more!

Trek Domane AL review: Blurring the line

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

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

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

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

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

Trek Domane AL updates

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Updated geometry

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

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

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

Riding the Trek Domane AL

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bike: Trek Domane AL 4 Gen 4

Price: $1,699.99 / £1,875 / €1,999

trekbikes.com

Popular on Velo

What’s it like to be an American cyclist living in France? Watch to get professional road cyclist Joe Dombrowski’s view.

Related content from the Outside Network

One way south, mountain bikers react to their first taste of non-alcoholic craft beer, video review: bmc urs 01 two gravel bike, kiel reijnen vuelta video diary: the painful decision to abandon.

Welcome to Escape Collective. Please select your language.

Please note that this is an automated translation and it will not be perfect. All articles have been written in English and if anything appears to not make sense, please double check in English.

2024 Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4 review: Budget all-road

An impressively versatile and previously-loved bike now held back by a pursuit of aesthetic-led design.

As a tech editor, I’m often more excited to test entry-level bikes than those with sky-high prices. Sure, a 7 kg superbike built with scrap from a space program (not really) is a hoot to ride, but it’s the balance of budget and function that intrigues me so much more about the lower end. 

Here, the assumption is often that those new to cycling will start with such a lower-cost bike. These bikes can make or break the future growth of cycling, and my hope is that the person buying such a bike has a positive experience that encourages them to stick around the sport we love so much.  

That’s where the Trek Domane AL comes in. I tested the previous iteration (released for 2021) and found it to be one of the best entry-level road bikes available. It offered a welcoming fit and confident handling without feeling dull. It provided ample tyre clearance to be used as either a road bike or light gravel bike. It was simple to keep well-tuned. Most importantly, it was an entry-level bike that I truly enjoyed riding. 

And that brings us to the latest iteration of Trek’s best-selling road bike. On paper, the new fourth-generation Domane Al retains a lot of what I liked in its predecessor, but it, of course, introduces a few new twists to the proven recipe. This is a solid bike, but as you’ll read, it fails to impress like the previous version. 

The short of it:  Trek’s most budget road bike, revamped, and still with class-leading tyre clearance. Good stuff:  Room for 40 mm tyres has this one ready for the gravel-curious. Solid build kit and frame will shrug off loaded commuting and mixed surfaces. Ready for fenders and a rack. Welcoming geometry and comfortable touch points. Bad stuff:  Disc brakes make for a heavy bike, and the mechanical disc brakes here aren’t stellar. Heavy wheels and tyres make the bike feel more sluggish than it wants to be. Through-headset cable routing makes no sense on a bike with mechanical gears and brakes. Ultimately cheap gearing and brakes for a bike that, while Trek’s entry-level, isn’t as affordable as it should be.

The new Domane Al explained 

In its modern form, the Domane Al is a dropbar bike that blurs the line between being an endurance road and an all-road bike – the latter being a category of bike that is designed with the versatility to split its time across tarmac and well-kept gravel roads. And with official room to easily clear 38 mm tyres (I comfortably fit measured 41 mm rubber in my sample), it certainly has the tyre clearance to go off-road. Still, look to the gearing and geometry, and it’s clear Trek still intends this one first and foremost for those wanting a road bike (get a gravel bike if your ambitions are predominately focused on riding off-road). 

As Trek’s most affordable road offering, the Domane Al offers a base-level aluminium frame (100 series Alpha in Trek speak) with a handful of more premium features. Many of the tubes are formed into angular shapes to handle specific forces and/or offer a unique aesthetic flourish. For example, the top tube tapers from matching the oversized head tube to that of the comparatively slender seat tube. Meanwhile, the oversized down tube is anything but round in its profile. 

Shapes aside, the most obvious new fancy feature is seen with the oversized headset bearings that now house four gear/brake housings within it which are then fed into the aluminium frame or full carbon fork. That full carbon fork on all price points of the Domane AL is new, too, included in an effort to save weight. 

With such generous tyre clearance, the frame has room and provision for full-length fenders (via a removable seatstay bridge) – with them installed, you’ll still comfortably fit 35 mm rubber. There are mounts for a top tube bag, and a third bottle cage can be mounted on the underside of the down tube. 

Component fitments are kept joyfully regular with an English threaded bottom bracket shell, a 27.2 mm seatpost, an external seatpost clamp, and flat mount brake calipers. And in a first for Trek, and perhaps a first for a road bike of this price point, there’s a Universal Derailleur Hanger (UDH) – a now-standard concept from the mountain bike world that not only ensures you can buy a replacement derailleur hanger anywhere, it also means the frame is ready for newer T-mount type derailleurs (first seen with SRAM Eagle Transmission ).

However, there is one exception to easy component fitments, and that’s the cable routing through the headset – I’ll return to this. 

More quality features include a small adjustable chain-catcher that’s ready in case of a shifting mishap. And then the provided thru-axles offer a nice conical interface, with a removable handle that contains a 4 mm hex key for use across the bike (for adjusting bars, seatpost, etc.) 

I’m happy to say that Trek has made no changes to the geometry since the previous iteration. Across the seven sizes, the Domane AL is intended to put the rider in a more relaxed position than a race bike. The bike also balances a longer wheelbase for stability with relatively quick steering angles to keep it feeling zoomy (61 mm trail figure in a 54 cm with 32 mm tyres). And as Trek has done with Domane for a number of years, the bike sits comparatively low to the ground with a 80 mm bottom bracket drop in the assumption you’ll be running larger-volume tyres (32 mm as stock). 

If the parts dangling off it weren’t enough proof that this bike exists to hit a certain price point, then its weight certainly offers that confirmation. A 56 cm frame is quoted to weigh 1,518 g, while the matching carbon fork sits at 475 g. All told, the base-model Domane AL 2, as tested, strained my scales at 10.42 kg without pedals or cages, and while that’s far from light, it does shave about 200 g off its predecessor. 

As tested, the base-model Domane AL 2 (US$1,200 / €1,200 / £1,125 / AUD$2,000) is built with a mix of Shimano’s entry-level Claris components and a few even cheaper non-series bits for a 2×8 gearing setup. The Tektro disc brakes are of the mechanical kind with a design that pulls both brake pads simultaneously to clamp onto the disc rotor (a design concept shared with the more premium TRP Spyre brake). Meanwhile, Trek’s componentry house brand, Bontrager, is responsible for all the other pieces, including a gravel-inspired handlebar with a subtle amount of flare, a well-padded and welcoming short-nose saddle, and a simple but effective twin bolt alloy seatpost.

Potholes will be fearful of being hit by the Paradigm SL wheels, and the Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite wire-bead tyres that are ready to ride through a river of broken glass bottles. The build may be heavy, but it’ll take more knocks than a door. 

Step up to the Domane AL 4 at US$1,700 / €2,000 / £1,875 / AU$N/A and you’ll see the bike get a welcome upgrade to Shimano Tiagra 2×10 shifting and matching hydraulic disc brakes. Meanwhile, all the other bits are the same as the base model. This is the model I tested in the previous iteration and the one I sought to test again. Alas, it’s unfortunately not offered within the small island of Australia. As I’ll come to explain, this one is worth the extra expense if it’s available in your region. 

Finally, spending US$2,000 / €2,300 / £2,150 / AU$N/A gets you the Domane AL 5. This top-tier option has Shimano’s new 105 12-speed mechanical groupset , while the rest remains the same as above. 

Handling and versatility

Riding the Domane AL is a familiar and welcoming experience. Straight from the box, it offers a comparatively upright but not cramped riding position, and it can be easily (and cheaply!) tuned to offer a more leisurely or aggressive fit. 

The stock stem length (100 mm in the size tested) and new 80 mm reach handlebar left me without complaint, but my initial impressions were that it made the reach feel longer than expected, especially given how upright the position otherwise is. Those wanting a truly relaxed ride may need to swap out to a shorter stem length, while those wanting a truer road bike experience can use the 45 mm of stem spacers provided for fine-tuning the stem height.

I found my 54 cm Domane AL sample handled best with the handlebars lowered by 25 mm (lower handlebar height helps to put more weight on the front tyre and lowers your centre of gravity), however, what fits you best should be the priority. 

Either way, the Domane AL fits the way an endurance-type road bike should, and it’s a far more inviting experience for newer riders than bikes that try to mimic pure race bike geometry. It’s a fit that should have mountain bikers feeling at home, and likewise for those fresh to cycling. 

It’s easy to make a road bike stable, but make it too stable and the bike can become dull to corner with and a little lifeless in finding a rewarding flow. Trek’s proven geometry figures strike a nice balance between easy-riding stability and reactivity. The Domane AL has a longer wheelbase and slacker head angle to ensure it’s not nervous like a race bike, but then, a longer fork offset helps to reduce the trail figure for a ride that remains rewarding to dip into high-speed corners. 

In reviews, we often cover the ride quality of a frame (basically, how smooth the bike feels). The Domane AL is by no means a rattle-can like aluminium bikes of the distant past, but equally, its relatively basic tubing does mean you’ll feel the edge of larger bumps. However, so much of how this bike rides and handles is seemingly intertwined with the stock wheel and tyre setup, something I cover in the following section. 

As a budget offering, you can expect this bike to lack the same level of polish as more premium options. The welds are fairly consistent but aren’t made to look pretty. Likewise, the candy red paint (a black/grey option also exists) offers a premium look, but closer inspection shows it lacks a mirror polish. And then, every time I looked at the crooked Domane logo on the top tube I was further reminded that this was Trek’s budget offering. 

Regardless of how it rides, the Domane AL is certainly robust enough for thumping down a gravel road. Likewise, the room for actual 40 mm tyres means you can equip it for proper off-road use. However, like many road-going bikes, that larger tyre makes the gearing taller (harder), and therefore you’ll probably be wishing for easier gearing on loose steep climbs. Similarly, the frame geometry isn’t ideally optimised for such big rubber, and at least for smaller sizes, you’ll be hitting your toes against a wider front tyre (aka toe overlap) when turning at low speeds. Thankfully, no such toe overlap issues were present with the stock 32 mm tyres in the tested size 54 cm. 

When weight matters 

Physics tells us that the bike’s weight often makes a negligible difference to one’s speed. Still, one of the joys of a pure road bike is the whippy and reactive sensations earned through a light bike, and while it may not result in a huge difference in the Strava rankings, it sure can make a difference in how big of a grin you carry up the hill. 

It’s here where the Domane AL and its excess mass tend to disappoint. There’s no other way to put it, but in its stock form this bike just feels sluggish and hesitant to move. No doubt the basis for such blame comes from the disc brakes, a complaint that my colleague Caley Fretz recently articulated with his review of the more race-orientated Trek Emonda ALR . I won’t repeat that rant, but disc brakes carry increased cost and increased weight, and in an effort to save money, there’s an even bigger trade-off in the weight. However, this is an increasingly pointless argument as rim brake bikes become forever harder to find, and when you do find them, you can bet you’ll be limited to a far narrower tyre width. 

OK, so the new Domane Al is only available with disc brakes and that’s absolutely not going to change. Plus, those disc brakes are why this bike can fit gravel-sized tyres. Thankfully there is good news here as so much of this slug-like-biomimicry is simply related to the provided tyres and wheels. 

Weight is one negative to the stock Bontrager Paradigm SL wheels. Although more obvious was the penalty in rolling resistance and ride quality from the Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite wire-bead tyres (quoted and measured at 32 mm). Here, the provided tyres and wheels have the bike feeling more like an urban commuter than a sporty road bike, and one riding friend remarked that they noticed how suddenly slow(er) I was while testing this bike!

Swapping the wheels to some mid-priced Shimano 105 carbon wheels and performance-type 28 mm road tyres dropped an entire kilogram from the bike. More obvious than the weight was the night-and-day difference in the ride quality and rolling resistance. Suddenly the Domane Al felt like a road bike should – it was reactive to input and didn’t slow as noticeably when the road inclined. Equally, the wooden ride quality caused by the stiff tyres was now softened, resulting in a ride that simply felt smoother for an equivalent tyre pressure. 

Spending the value of a bike on wheels and tyres will of course always transform the ride. It’s often the best upgrade you can do to any bike, and that’s no different here. Even if the budget doesn’t allow for new wheels, changing from the stock 470-gram wire-bead tyres to a more performance-oriented folding tyre will significantly improve your average speed and feel on the bike. 

Now the stock wheels and tyres hold back the bike from being the road bike the Domane AL wants to be, but there are customers who they’re well suited for – notably commuters. Those with aspirations of riding to work during the week and enjoying the sights on the weekend will be well served by the stock wheels and tyres, just don’t expect to ride efficiently with them. 

Shifting, braking, and internal guidance  

Testing such budget bike models is always interesting – sometimes they pleasantly surprise me, other times I’m left wondering about particular specification choices. For the Domane AL 2, it’s a mix of both. 

Sitting below Sora, the Shimano Claris shifting is Shimano’s most budget dropbar option to earn an actual model name. If you were to compare it to Shimano’s mountain bike groupsets, you’d be looking at what used to be Acera (now replaced by CUES). It’s so budget, in fact, that Shimano only offers it in a mechanical brake configuration where it can be connected to rim brakes or as seen here, mechanical disc brakes. 

With both brake pads simultaneously clamping onto the disc rotor, in theory, the provided brakes are pretty good amongst a sea of ever-cheaper mechanical options. However, in practice, I was reminded once again just how stubborn the stock pads and rotor are to bed in for full power. The brakes were downright dangerous for the first 30 minutes of riding, and even once fully bedded in, the power was more comparable to a rim brake than a hydraulic disc brake system. 

While the braking power isn’t great, the Claris brake hoods are at least comfortable to hold. That’s a nice change from what the cheapest stuff used to feel like. Meanwhile, the shifting never failed to find the desired cog, but in doing so, it lacks the smoothness of Shimano’s 10-, 11-, and 12-speed shifting systems. The bigger bother was the square taper crankset that was flexy enough for me to hear the chain rub against the front derailleur when riding out of the saddle. 

Related, I found myself out of the saddle more often as the combination of the compact (50/34T) front gearing and 11-32T cassette don’t provide quite low enough gearing given the sheer weight of the bike and the larger 32 mm tyres. Adding salt to the wound, this gearing will only become a bigger issue if you choose to increase the tyre size further. 

One of our growing complaints with many modern road bikes is that the ever-increasing integration of components and hiding of cables has brought great complications to tuning how a bike fits and how easily it is serviced. Here, Trek at least gets the former right. 

The Domane AL now hides the cables through the headset but thankfully not through the handlebar or stem. As a result, there are no limitations or barriers to adjusting the height of the handlebars, the length of the stem, or the position of the saddle. All this stuff remains traditional and simple to swap and change – no advanced mechanical know-how or specialist tools are required. This semi-concealed design also means you can still box the bike for travel without much of a hiccup. Even better is that you’re unlikely to need to make any component changes as the provided parts offer a comfortable position straight from the box. 

OK, so that concealed cabling may look nice (that’s fundamentally its core purpose), but it absolutely introduces future servicing complications. Changing brake or gear outer cables is certainly more of a fiddle, but hardly a stress compared to the nightmare that will be incurred if you were to ever wear out or rust away a headset bearing that the fork steers on. Here, all the gear cables and brake cables will need to be disconnected (and likely replaced) along with the bartape in order to swap that simple bearing – a service that is likely to cost at least an extra hour of professional labour. 

Worse yet, the bearing durability is now compromised because the elements are welcome to enter through the holes for the brake and gear cables. Indeed a sweaty session on the indoor trainer or a soggy ride out on a gravel road will see contaminants begin to reach the final seals of those bearings. 

All of this is to say that I strongly believe clean aesthetics is not enough reason for brands to utilise concealed cabling on entry-level bikes – a complaint not at all exclusive to Trek. These lower-cost bikes don’t have wireless electronic gears, but rather still use mechanical gears that need smooth paths for the cables to flow. Meanwhile, the bike tested also has steel cables for the brakes, and you can bet that the marginally increased lengths of required cabling come at the cost of increased friction, greater cable compression, and therefore reduced brake efficiency. Hydraulic disc brakes help a lot here, but even then, you still have mechanical shift cables to weave. 

So what’s the answer? Well, you’re locked into this with the new Domane Al. It’s the one thing I think is an obvious (and significant) downgrade from the previous iteration of the Domane AL. And it’s one area where I think the new Specialized Allez Sport keeps things more practically modest (well worth consideration at this price point). Unfortunately for many at this price point, the effort of making such budget bikes look more premium comes at a practical cost, and Trek is joined by the likes of Orbea, Scott, and an increasing number of others in this trend.

The wrap 

Modern bicycles have improved in so many ways. The durability is impressive. The ability to run wide tyres for mixed terrain removes limitations of where and how you can ride your own bike. And no doubt, bikes are more ergonomic and better for the body than before. 

Still, I look at the combination of disc brakes and concealed cabling on a bike built with Shimano’s most entry-level gearing and can’t help but think how much better this bike could be if it had an even simpler frame and a decent rim brake. The braking would be comparable, it would be far lighter, and it would either be significantly cheaper or better equipped. 

Again, that’s not a complaint unique to Trek, but the base-model Domane AL 2 is a prime example of a bike that arguably lacks value where it matters. Indeed it’s a good bike in many aspects, but it carries a hefty asking price for a bike running shifting parts that previously came with bikes costing half as much just a handful of years ago. 

Spending more for the Shimano Tiagra-equipped Domane AL 4 immediately solves all of my issues related to the brakes and shifting. Still, it doesn’t solve for the sluggish tyres and increased complexity of the through-headset cable routing. Either way, if you do decide a Trek Domane AL is right for you, then just know that you’ll be at a speed disadvantage until you at least change the tyres. And as with any bike with through-headset cable routing, be prepared for bigger service bills through the ownership of such a bike. 

What did you think of this story?

😐 Meh 😊️ Solid 🤩 Excellent

Read Comments

escapecollective Trek

2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Disc Review

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

– IsoSpeed technology for a more comfortable ride.

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

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

– Fender and rack mounts for versatility.

Frame and Design

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Performance

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

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

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

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

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

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

View these other popular posts

• Giant Roam 3 Disc Review
• 2023 Kona Sutra ULTD Review
• Vitus Substance VRS-2 Gravel Bike GRX 600 Review
• 2023 Specialized Diverge E5 Review
• Top 5 Bikepacking Mistakes

Related Posts

2023 Cannondale Topstone 3 Review

Cannondale Quick CX 3 Review

Aluminum Gravel Bikes | The BIG List

REI Co-Op Cycles DRT 1.1 Review

• Domane AL 5 Gen 3

• Rider Notes

2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Gen 3

An aluminum frame endurance bike with mid-range components and mechanical disc brakes.

Domane AL 3 Gen 3

In Stock: 44cm & 52cm

Biloxi Bicycle Works

Domane AL 3 Gen 3 - 2023, 54cm

In Stock: 54cm

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.

Similar Bikes

(descending)

Add custom gearing

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

4'11" – 5'1"

5'1" – 5'5"

5'3" – 5'7"

5'5" – 5'9"

5'8" – 6'0"

5'10" – 6'2"

6'0" – 6'4"

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

Feb 2024 · Dave Rome

Trek’s most budget road bike, revamped, and still with class-leading tyre clearance.

Room for 40 mm tyres has this one ready for the gravel-curious. Solid build kit and frame will shrug off loaded commuting and mixed surfaces. Ready for fenders and a rack. Welcoming geometry and comfortable touch points.

Disc brakes make for a heavy bike

And the mechanical disc brakes here aren’t stellar. Heavy wheels and tyres make the bike feel more sluggish than it wants to be. Through-headset cable routing makes no sense on a bike with mechanical gears and brakes. Ultimately cheap gearing and brakes for a bike that

While Trek’s entry-level

Isn’t as affordable as it should be.

Read Review

Now on its fourth iteration, the Trek Domane AL is packed with updates, a lighter frame, and room for larger tires.

Sep 2023 · Calvin Zajac

Can the Trek Domane SLR 7 AXS Gen 4 prove to be the ultimate all-road bike and adventure buddy in our 2023 all-road group test?

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

Sep 2023 · Alvin Holbrook

Big tire clearance and lower weight give the new Trek Domane AL generation 4 all-road bike credibility both on road and on dirt.

Apr 2023 · Suvi Loponen

We take a look at the details of the bike that Trek-Segafredo raced through the Hell of the North

Mar 2023 · Robin Wilmott

The Domane AL 4 Disc is a good budget endurance bike that’s excellent on the road and very capable away from it

Well rounded, coherent ride

Great comfort

Useful practicality

Crankset deviation

Squeaky-feeling saddle

Thin handlebar tape

Jan 2023 · Josh Croxton

Fewer Isospeeds means it's a little less comfortable, but the new Domane SLR 9 is fast, fun, and ready for an adventure

Easy to use storage compartment with neat & organising tool wrap

Simplified Isospeed vibration damping

38mm tyre clearance

Power meter included

Neat, low-maintenance integrated cockpit

Oh boy is it pricey

I would hope for top-spec tyres at this price

Oct 2022 · James Spender

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

Over-engineered

Last updated March 30

Is Trek Domane AL 5 Disc Worth Buying? [Trek Domane AL 5 Disc Enduro Bike Review]

Table of Contents

We have reviewed the Trek Domane AL 5 Disc.

• Price : $2,099.99
• Frame:  100 Series Alpha Aluminum
• Gear:  2×11
• Tires:  700x32c

What we like about it:  The smooth and confidently fast-rolling Domane AL 5 Disc allows you to stay powerfully competitive on long rides.

What don’t we like about it : Some people think its aluminum frame is not as light as carbon.

Rating (4.7/5)

Introduction

When riding on the road or some natural trails we’ll want a bike that can leave the competition far behind. This Trek Domane AL 5 Disc’s premium 100 Series Alpha Aluminum frame, wide enough range Shimano 105 R7020 2×11 drivetrain, and aggressive Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite road tires have us excited about its performance on gravel sections. Excited.

After two months of review, this Domane AL 5 Disc has taken us to conquer all kinds of roads, helped us win applause, again and again, accompanied us to cross different bridges one after another, and experienced the exciting fun of racing with the wind again and again.

Yes, the Domane AL 5 Disc kind of speed that seems to be one with the wind makes us shout for it. And one of our partners who loves off-road riding is in love with road riding.

Below we break down the Trek Domane AL 5 Disc for road riding, endurance riding, key features, components and specifications, and other versions.

If you want to know more, please keep following me, will bring more riding reviews.

Learn More: Trek Domane AL 3 Disc Road Bike Review-Ride the Road Like a Lightning Bolt

Road Riding

As we know road bikes may not be able to match the performance of a lightweight hardtail bike when it comes to climbing, but one has to admit that a lightweight hardtail bike is commendable on the road. But the relatively more professional performance of a quality Domane AL 5 Disc bike on the road will make you overlook its performance.

In its price range, the Trek Domane AL 5 Disc will be praised as a “fast runner” whether riding on normal flat roads or variable natural roads.

Based on the Domane AL 5 Disc’s aggressive 700x32c Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite road tire, there’s also a steep head tube angle (71.9°) that keeps it razor sharp even on bumpy natural roads.

In addition, it has a multiple shifting Shimano 105 HG700-11 2×11 shifting system, which allows me to shift gears to ride according to the terrain when facing changing roads (roads with ascent or descent).

When I made a riding bet with my partner Eve, I won a bottle of his long-cherished red wine. Yes, it’s snappy and the wide shifting gives me more speed options for every situation.

You may notice, as I did, that this bike has no dropper design, which may allow the natural road to put some hindrance on it. But notice the Domane AL carbon fork, which makes up for it tremendously.

All things considered, the Trek Domane AL 5 Disc is a dancer on the road. It gives the rider an exciting enough riding experience with excellent components.

Endurance Riding

Although I am not a pure endurance rider, my good friend David is a rider who loves endurance riding. So on this long endurance ride, I invited him to join me for a two-week long ride.

Our cycling trip was in Hawaii. We had heard about the gorgeous riding roads here for a long time, so we took the opportunity to come here. However, from our chosen starting point all the way through, I have to say that the cycling roads in Hawaii are truly gorgeous. Therefore, I saw the rising sun in the early morning, appreciated the setting sun in the evening, a lookup was the clouds rolling in and out, and a turn of the eye was the quiet water flying birds.

Yes, on this long endurance ride with the Trek Domane AL 5 Disc, I didn’t give up because of subsequent stamina loss. the Trek Domane AL 5 Disc’s excellent 2×11 drivetrain gave me great support, allowing me to save more effort and keep enough energy by shifting.

Its lightweight aluminum frame also made pedaling easier for me. The 60tpi tires suffered no noticeable wear during such a long ride. Also, the two water bottle mounting holes are designed to be well prepared. The mounting of the rear bracket also gave me more confidence to face this riding trip.

I’m happy to mention that my friend David’s bike blew out twice during this ride. This made him very interested in the Trek Domane AL 5 Disc, and I was happy to swap with him. He later told me he swapped his bike and now his bike is a Trek Domane AL 5 Disc.

During this endurance ride, I felt the flexible handling of the Trek Domane AL 5 Disc’s lightweight frame, the wear resistance of the tires, and its practicality. If you are an endurance riding enthusiast, maybe you should try Trek Domane AL 5 Disc.

Main Features

I’m very concerned about the weight of the bike. So when I saw that the Trek Domane AL 5 Disc had a 100 Series Alpha Aluminum frame, I was a little dismayed inside. But what I didn’t expect was the incredible lightness when I tried to pick it up. With an overall weight of 22.27 lbs, even a woman could easily pick it up.

I like the two paint colors of the Domane AL 5 Disc, I think they are retro and trendy. In addition, the clean internal alignment and smooth welds will make you smile involuntarily. Yes, it looks like an elegant gentleman.

What’s more, the Domane AL 5 Disc is fully prepared for long endurance rides. Not only does it have two water bottle mounting holes, so I can go on long rides without worrying about not getting enough water. There is also a rear rack that can be installed, so if I want to go camping I can bring enough necessary equipment to enjoy the camping experience.

As I could see with my naked eye, the geometry of the Domane AL 5 Disc is not that different from that of a regular road bike. But as soon as I stepped on the bike and pedaled, I realized that the bike’s geometry was designed with its specialty, endurance riding, in mind.

For starters, the Domane AL 5 Disc’s steep seat tube angle (73.3°) not only allows you to maintain a comfortable upright riding position but also allows you to pedal more easily. The equally steep head tube angle (71.9°) gives the Domane AL 5 Disc more responsive steering. While on the road, I felt the steep head tube angle made my ride more exciting (it could be my illusion).

Secondly, the more compact Chainstay length (42cm) allows me to be more agile when handling the bike. So it allows me to do some simple jumps more easily.

In addition, the geometry of the Domane AL 5 Disc on long rides allows me to stay in a comfortable riding position.

In short, the geometry engineers of Domane AL 5 Disc have a good grasp of the characteristics of long endurance rides. So its geometry is designed to save effort while taking into account ergonomics, so you can be more comfortable while doing endurance riding.

Components and Specifications

Shimano 105 hg700 2×11 drivetrain.

Now I am surrounded by friends and many people I know who prefer the 1× drivetrain. I can’t let go of my love for the 1× drivetrain, but I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised by the performance of the Shimano 105 HG700 2×11 drivetrain.

Thanks to its wide range of shifting options, it helped me save a lot of energy on my Hawaii ride. However, I must be honest and say that the chain started to wobble a bit during speed changes. But after I made a few simple adjustments it didn’t do that. It may not be as smooth and clean as the 1×, but I must admit that at this price the Shimano 105 HG700 2×11 drivetrain is worthy of praise.

Shimano 105 Hydraulic Disc Brakes

The importance of brakes is probably a point of consideration for everyone, and I am no exception. And hydraulic disc brakes are one of the brakes that I consider to be great. So the brakes on this Domane AL 5 Disc are Shimano 105 hydraulic disc brakes, and this brake provides better control. The braking that I can do by just holding the controller on the handlebars when I encounter a need to stop in a hurry.

In addition, thanks to the convenient ONE-WAY BLEEDING and the simple tubing connection system, the installation and adjustment process is made easier for you.

Not only that, but it can also perform effective braking even on slick roads. Some people think that hydraulic disc brakes can be difficult to maintain, but my daily brake maintenance is less tedious because of its easy and simple oiling system. If you are just worried about the maintenance work afterward, I can tell you for sure that Shimano 105 hydraulic disc brakes are not that troublesome to maintain.

Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite Road Tire

This is a tire created specifically for the road. When it comes in a slim and sharp 700x32c, you may not worry that it will embarrass you in a speed race.

This tire has Hard-Case Lite puncture protection. On endurance rides in Hawaii, it has no significant tire wear from long rides. And with a 60tpi casing and ready-to-run vacuum tires, it not only saves weight but also greatly increases its durability. In addition, the excellent cornering traction gives me a bright performance in road riding.

In my opinion, this is not only a long-lasting road tire but also a versatile tire, but it has to wear resistance and weight to allow you to commute or work out.

Trek Domane AL 5 Disc Bontrager Elite IsoZone VR-SF Handlebars

As we’ve seen, the Trek Domane AL 5 Disc has an attractive curved-moon IsoZone handlebar. So this IsoZone handlebar is made of foam pads integrated directly into the top of the alloy Elite IsoZone bars, providing approximately 20% shock shift.

It also absorbs vibrations from the road when I’m riding on bumpy roads, reducing your riding fatigue. Accordingly, it’s compatible with the Shimano EW-RS910 handlebar-end Junction-A, which allows for a cleaner and neater alignment.

Not only that but with the short extension distance and variable radius shallow flare (VR-SF) design, the brake lever can be used confidently even when descending.

Trek Domane AL 5 Disc IsoSpeed Carbon Fork

I am most familiar with shock-absorbing forks that compress and cushion through travel distances for decompression purposes when hitting bumps. But this Trek Domane AL 5 Disc’s IsoSpeed carbon fork works a little differently. Because of its unique damping, I initially misidentified it.

IsoSpeed carbon fork, I started to notice it because I was facing a sharp descending section where the road was having some small puddles. While I was worried that the bumps would strain my arms, what I didn’t expect was to experience a better ride as the IsoSpeed carbon fork absorbed the vibrations from the road as I dove forward.

Other versions of Trek Domane AL Disc

In this review trip, we did a detailed review of the Trek Domane AL 5’s drivetrain and braking system as well as its tires and geometry. To get a more comprehensive look at the Trek Domane AL 5 Disc, we also found the Trek Domane AL 2 Disc, Trek Domane AL 3 Disc, and Trek Domane AL 4 Disc.

These three models are priced from low to high, and all three are also aluminum frames, and the drivetrain of these three models are 2×8, 2×9 and 2×10 speed ranges respectively. In addition, the Domane AL2 Disc and Domane AL 3 Disc have mechanical disc brakes. So the mechanical disc type is cheaper and light enough. But, I still prefer the smooth feel of hydraulic disc brakes.

If you want to know more, you can keep following us.

What we like about it?

• Lightweight aluminum frame so you can take it anywhere.
• Special IsoSpeed carbon fork, can effectively absorb vibration, experience a more comfortable ride.
• Wide choice of speed, you can get the most suitable speed by variable speed.
• Sharp and aggressive tires allow you to get the thrill of speed.
• The design of the rack can be installed, you can enjoy the fun of riding travel.

What don’t we like about it?

• The choice of two paint colors is not wide enough.
• Some people will think that the 2×11 gearbox will be a bit bulky.

Is it possible to mount a stand on the Trek Domane AL 5 Disc?

The Trek Domane AL 5 Disc is available with a mount.

Who is the Trek Domane AL 5 Disc for?

The Trek Domane AL 5 Disc is suitable for anyone to ride.

What is the frame material of the Trek Domane AL 5 Disc?

The frame of Trek Domane AL 5 Disc is 100 Series Alpha Aluminum.

Trek Domane AL 5 Disc Specs

Comparison Table

Trek domane al 5 disc vs bianchi via nirone 7 – grx 400.

As we can see the Bianchi Via Nirone 7 – GRX 400 uses the Via Nirone 7 Allroad alloy and the Trek Domane AL 5 Disc uses the 100 Series Alpha Aluminum frame. I would prefer the aluminum frame of the Domane AL 5 Disc because it is light enough.

Then, in terms of drivetrain, the Bianchi Via Nirone 7 – GRX 400 2×10 has relatively less drivetrain. But if you don’t need that much range of gearing, you can try the Bianchi Via Nirone 7 – GRX 400.

Besides that, if you prefer a 2×11 drive, I can tell you that the Domane AL 5 Disc’s drivetrain shifts consistently and quickly. Moreover, with a wide range of speed options, you can handle more terrain.

Also, the Bianchi Via Nirone 7 – GRX 400 is fitted with 700x35c tires. So it makes me think that having the more aggressive 700x32c Domane AL 5 Disc would have been faster. When it comes to actual riding, the Domane AL 5 Disc is indeed better.

If you prefer a lighter experience and faster tire roll, you can try the Domane AL 5 Disc.

Bianchi Via Nirone 7 Review – GRX 400 Review – Newest

Trek Domane AL 5 Disc VS Scott Speedster 20

Comparison with the overall shape of these two bikes, we can see that the Trek Domane AL 5 Disc has a softer frame and the Scott Speedster 20 has a stiffer-looking frame. In terms of looks, I would prefer the softer Domane AL 5 Disc.

An then you see the brakes, the Domane AL 5 Disc uses hydraulic disc brakes and the Scott Speedster 20 uses Shimano BR-RS305 mechanical disc brakes. Then, in terms of personal preference, I would prefer the hydraulic disc brakes, which are very powerful and can brake steadily on slippery surfaces. Although the Shimano BR-RS305 mechanical disc brakes are also desirable, I am not so fond of its dry feel.

Also, the Scott Speedster 20 is driven by a 2×10 gear range, which is less compared to the Domane AL 5 Disc. If we pay attention to its weight we will also find that the Scott Speedster 20 is heavier than the Domane AL 5 Disc by about 0.63Ibs.

So if you need a disc with a wider speed range and hydraulic disc brakes, you might want to check out the Domane AL 5 Disc first.

Trek Domane AL 5 Disc vs Fezzari Empire Sport

Many people may not be aware of the Fezzari Empire Sport-bike, which is a relatively niche brand. The price of this bike is very affordable, but its frame is made of carbon. But the carbon frame alone can attract a lot of interested riders. However, its Shimano Tiagra 2×10 gearing versus the Domane AL 5 Disc’s 2×11 gearing may divert many people’s attention.

In addition, Fezzari Empire Sport’s Tektro MD-C550 mechanical road disc brakes, while I don’t deny their braking ability, I prefer their smooth feel compared to the hydraulic brakes of the Domane AL 5 Disc. Moreover, the Domane AL 5 Disc’s hydraulic brakes are easy to maintain and very easy to install.

If you want a bike with a carbon frame, you might consider the Fezzari Empire Sport, but my recommendation is that the Domane AL 5 Disc from the big brand Trek would be more trustworthy. Besides, it’s just as light, and its brakes and drivetrain are suitable for a wide range of terrain.

Learn more : Is Fezzari Empire SL Team Edition Shimano Worth Buying?- [Fezzari Empire SL Team Edition Shimano Review]

Trek Domane AL 5 Disc VS BMC Roadmachine, SEVEN

The price is as high as $2999 for BMC Roadmachine, SEVEN. It is a frame with Roadmachine quality carbon. So its weight is only 19.4Ibs, which is its advantage.

Then, the 2×10 speed range is far from enough for a variable rider like me. So for that reason, I would choose the Domane AL 5 Disc.

Also, both of these are hydraulic disc brakes. Either way, they both feel great to me. But based on my limited budget, I would be more willing to pay for the cheaper Trek Domane AL 5 Disc at about $899.01.

However, if the value for money is more important to you, the Trek Domane AL 5 Disc is a great choice.

In summary, the Trek Domane AL 5 Disc is a confident and versatile enduro bike at a good price.

In case, the above comments are helpful to you, please remember to share the subscription. Have a great day!

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

Related Posts

[Orbea URRUN 10 20mph Review] – Best Used By People Who Enjoy Riding To Get AFeel For The Mountains!

[schwinn admiral hybrid bicycle review] -is schwinn admiral hybrid bicycle worth buying？.

[Specialized Turbo Como 5.0 Review] – Good Choice?

15 of The Best Mountain Bike Saddles You Can Buy

20 INCH FOLDING BIKE BTWIN 120 Review－Fold up and put in “pocket”

2023 Top 10 Best Fun Kids Bike Bells – Will This Bring Joy To Your Child’s Ride?

27.5 vs 29er Mountain Bikes – The Battle Of The Century

Best 20 inch Bikes For 6-13 Years Old Kids Bikes (With Gears)

Best 27.2 Dropper Post

Best 30.9 Dropper Post In

Best 31.6 Dropper Post

Best Mountain Bike Stems-Better Travel Through The Mountains And Forests

Leave a comment cancel reply.

You must be logged in to post a comment.