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Trek Domane AL 2 review

In these days of ever-increasing bike prices, Trek’s entry-level Domane is still refreshingly affordable

Dave Caudery / Our Media

Simon Withers

Great handling; excellent component specification; willing ride

The handlebar can transmit vibration at high tyre pressures on rough stuff

The class-leading Domane has always been the wild child in Trek’s triumvirate of road bikes whose names are all anagrams of each other. Shortlisted for our 2022 Budget Bike of the Year award , the AL 2 offers impressive handling and spec at an entry-level price.

Forever searching for alternate lines, not phased by rough surfaces, and with the ability to conquer almost anything, the Domane was one of the first really effective endurance bikes .

Far from the World Tour’s Paris-Roubaix winning rigs, this Domane AL 2 promises elements of those bikes’ performance at a very realistic price. Is it just marketing, or does it really work?

Trek Domane AL 2 specifications

test trek domane al 2

The Domane AL 2’s frame is built from Trek’s 100 Series aluminium tubes, which include some hydroformed profiles. It’s Trek’s lowest grade of aluminium tube, as you’d expect on an entry-level road bike , but shows obvious design care, and is welded neatly throughout.

The IsoSpeed carbon fork is designed to absorb a lot of road vibration up front, with a 27.2mm alloy seatpost and well-padded saddle at the rear.

To keep costs low, Trek fitted Shimano’s 8-speed Claris groupset, although the double chainset is substituted with a non-series RS200 item, and the brakes with some unbranded Lee Chi alloy dual-pivot calipers. The alloy handlebar and stem are from Bontrager, as are the TLR wheels and tyres.

Trek Domane AL 2 geometry

test trek domane al 2

The Domane follows the evolved geometry trend for endurance bikes, which is that of slightly relaxed race machines.

The head angle on my 54cm example is 71.3 degrees, with a 73.7-degree seat angle. Head tube length is kept to a sporty 16cm, while the effective top tube length is 54.2cm.

The chainstays are 42cm, the wheelbase 101cm, and bottom-bracket drop is a stability-inducing 8cm, which all suggests that the Domane AL 2 has the essential qualities to calm stormy tarmac.

Trek Domane AL 2 ride impressions

test trek domane al 2

An endurance bike is intended for all road types, although predominantly tarmac. With countless miles of roads and lanes to hand, where smooth surfaces were definitely the exception, I aimed the Domane at many of my tried-and-tested training routes.

I inflated the 25mm tyres to 75-80psi, which usually works well for my 78kg, and took in every sort of climb, slog and drag I could, as well as plenty of technical corners.

Trek has designed the Domane to fit most riders, whether they prefer to get long and low, or ride in a more commanding position. Since testing the very first Domane to arrive in the UK, I’ve always found them to be an ideal fit, straight out of the box. So it proved here, with all positional options easily achievable.

Unlike its loftier brethren, and particularly the carbon Domane range , the Domane AL 2 can only count on an IsoSpeed fork to help quell roughness.

The aluminium frame, although nicely constructed, has no elements that are designed to offer any IsoSpeed-like benefits. Instead, the rear of the bike relies on the classic 27.2mm alloy seatpost and a very plush saddle. The air volume of the 25mm tyres, which measure 27.5mm wide, helps further.

Up front, Bontrager’s alloy Comp VR-C handlebar and Elite stem are fairly standard fare, with a tough black finish and rounded drops.

The head tube mimics the shaping of the carbon Domane, and is satisfyingly, organically chunky.

All of the cables are routed externally, running beneath the down tube, and the rear brake cable angles pleasingly across beneath the flattened top tube from right to left, which gives it an ideal route from the left brake lever.

test trek domane al 2

Casting an eye over the AL 2 exposes the groupset shortcuts, which help keep costs down.

The non-series RS200 chainset is pretty basic, and spins on a UN300 cartridge bottom bracket, with square tapered axle ends.

These are simple fit-and-forget items that can provide decent service, but their bearings are well inside the bottom bracket shell, and this narrow arrangement makes them prone to lateral play sooner than bottom brackets with more widely spaced bearings positioned on each side of the shell.

The Domane’s plain black dual-pivot rim brake calipers aren’t named on Trek’s component spec, but a check of the spare parts list shows them to be Lee Chi items.

From the lever, their action feels quite lively, but whatever Trek has used for the brake pads seems to be allergic to alloy rims, as they have no bite, just a very wooden feel with no pad compression or the ability to increase pressure and stop faster.

I didn’t get the chance to ride them in the wet, but I doubt that would improve their performance. Swapping the brakes would have been very easy and inexpensive, and it’s a shame Trek didn’t do exactly that.

In the very comfortable saddle, the Domane AL 2 showcases its bump-smoothing ability. Like oil calming a rough sea, it glides along, seemingly rolling across the surface.

test trek domane al 2

If I was riding on 32mm or larger tyres at lower pressures, it would be easier to understand, but these are 25mm at normal road pressure. The higher-specced carbon Domanes amplify this effect much further, but finding this ride quality on an entry-level machine is impressive.

Anyone expecting a choppy ride on a budget aluminium frame will be blown away by the Domane AL 2.

Where the tarmac’s top surface coating has worn away, leaving uneven patches, or when it looks more washboard than A-road, the Domane rounds off the sharpness of the expected impact, keeping everything well under control.

The Shimano Claris levers have a very familiar feel, and are about as comfortable as most Shimano levers. Their shifting, across an eight-speed cassette, has less finesse than Shimano’s 10, 11 and 12-speed groupsets, but is still quite swift.

One downside of only having eight sprockets is larger jumps between some gears, which is inevitable with their 11-32 range. The front shifting performance is acceptable – it mainly does the job reliably, but occasionally needs a little coaxing not to get stuck mid-shift.

The gearing range is ideal for the Domane’s expected use, with a 50/34 compact chainset mated to that 11-32 cassette. Almost 1:1 low gearing on a reasonably swift road bike is quite generous, and 50x11 is big enough for most scenarios.

That relaxing ride quality translates to handling fun. It gives great confidence when cornering, descending and changing line to avoid obstructions. The Domane feels utterly stable, encouraging you to push a little harder, and the Bontrager tyres grip very well.

With a helpful breeze and friendly gradient, the Trek can really fly, but when the tables are turned, the Bontrager TLR wheelset shows its limitations.

On short drags, where I’m usually able to carry speed, until needing to stand up and power over the top, I found my approach speed was slower, and I’d have to change at least one gear before slogging over the crest.

They’re solid wheels that can be converted to tubeless for some puncture protection, but trying to muster a town sign sprint requires far more power than it should, and the resultant speed is underwhelming.

With mounts for full mudguards and a rear rack, this Domane could make an ideal winter bike or quick commuter , and there’s enough room for at least a 28mm tyre without mudguards.

Trek Domane AL 2 bottom line

test trek domane al 2

Trek’s Domane AL2 has a lot to offer, especially at this price.

Its tidy frame and vibe-eating fork are a sound basis for a good bike, which overall the Trek is.

The groupset does its job well, but the non-series chainset and narrow cartridge bottom bracket let the side down, with some iffy shifts and axle deflection. And the less said about those rim brakes, the better.

The ride quality from 25mm tyres is impressive, and increasing volume would add comfort and a little grip. Adding speed would require a wheel upgrade , which is quite straightforward, but not essential.

Budget Bike of the Year 2022 | How we tested

Our 2022 Budget Bike of the Year testing was handled by regular BikeRadar contributors Simon Withers and Robin Wilmott – two highly-experienced testers who have reviewed dozens of road and gravel bikes at the budget end of the market over the years.

Testing involved long rides on favourite routes around Bath, as well as laps of rolling hills in Somerset. Unlike our more performance-focused categories, the best road bikes around £1,000 are also more likely to be used for commuting by bike and other errands.

With this in mind, we’ve paid close attention to how easy the bikes are to live with for day-to-day use and how they fare on urban jaunts.

Our 2022 Budget Bike of the Year contenders are:

  • Boardman ADV 8.9
  • Forme Monyash 2
  • Giant Contend 1
  • Trek Domane AL 2
  • Triban RC 500

Thanks to our sponsors HUUB , Lazer , 100% and Garmin for their support in making Bike of the Year happen.

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test trek domane al 2

Trek Domane AL 2 Review: High-End Endurance on a Budget

trek domane road bike

An affordable mid-range road bike for those looking to level up their weekend rides to something a bit more competitive.

The Domane AL 2 is a good bike for those looking for an introduction to competitive road racing. It may not have all the bells and whistles of an expensive road bike but provides everything needed to put some serious hours in on the tarmac.

You’ll struggle to find a road bike under $1,000 that comes equipped with the same quality parts and advanced frame geometry.

Trek Domane AL 2 Quick Overview

Main features, is trek domane al 2 worth the money, final verdict.

Trek Domane AL 2

Overall, the Trek Domane AL 2 is an excellent introductory road bike for amateur riders looking to take their cycling to the next level.

It has a professional frame feel, but it’s not too aggressive so it doesn’t take the fun out of the ride.

If you’re looking for quality at an affordable price, it’s hard to fault the Trek Domane AL 2.

Whether you simply want comfort and performance for weekend rides or a bike that will help you compete professionally, it’ll do the job.

  • Frame: 100 Series Alpha Aluminum
  • Fork: Domane Carbon, fender mounts
  • Front Derailleur: Shimano Claris R2000,
  • Rear Derailleur: Shimano Claris R2000, 8-Speed
  • Number of Gears: 16
  • Rear hub: Formula RX-142 alloy, 6-bolt, Shimano 11-speed freehub, 142x12mm thru axle
  • Rims: Bontrager Tubeless Ready 24-hole, 17mm
  • Tire Size: 700x32c
  • Weight: 23.73 lbs / 10.76 kg

Get From Trek

The Trek Domane AL 2 combines midrange Shimano components with a high-quality frame, carbon fork, and some nice finishing touches to provide a smooth, solid ride.

Lightweight endurance frame

Lightweight frame

The Domane AL 2 adopts Trek ‘s high-performance 100 Series Alpha aluminum frame for a blend of comfort and performance.

The frame aims to strike a balance between saving on weight while maintaining decent strength and stiffness.

All frames come fitted with a lightweight Trek carbon fork to keep the weight down and provide a comfortable ride.

The endurance geometry is another well-balanced work of art that manages to put the rider in a race-ready position without compromising on comfort. The frames have an average 74-degree seat tube angle with 8cm of clearance on the bottom bracket and 37.4cm of frame reach on the midsize (54cm) bike.

Frame sizes range from 44cm to 62cm to accommodate riders of almost any height. The smallest 44cm model has a 65.7cm standover height, with an 84.2cm standover height on the largest unisex model

IsoSpeed Carbon Fork

The Trek IsoSpeed headset and carbon fork is designed to provide a smoother ride while improving stiffness and reducing weight.

It features a unique dropout placement that optimizes the wheelbase and a rocker cup with zero lateral movement for extra precision.

The slightly wider fork provides additional tire clearance, allowing for wider tires if you feel the desire to tackle tougher terrain.

Shimano Claris Drivetrain

Shimano Claris drivetrain

Shimano provides the gears, derailleurs, and shifters for the Domane AL 2. Trek has chosen to go with the Claris R2000 gearing system which, while not top of the range, provides a smooth shifting experience.

Claris is a well-trusted gearing system used on many midrange road bikes. Some professional riders may opt to upgrade to Shimano’s Sora or Tiagra system at a later stage but if well maintained, Claris gears shouldn’t give any trouble.

The rear cassette features 8 speeds ranging from 11T to 34T and on the front crank is a compact double ring with 50 and 34T cogs.

DuoTrap S Compatibility

The Bontrager DuoTrap S digital sensor is a nifty tool that can be attached to compatible Trek bicycles for measuring cycling data. Rather than messy, makeshift zip ties, the DuoTrap S screws securely onto the frame and transmits data wirelessly to your phone or bicycle computer.

You can use the DuoTrap’s combined ANT+ 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth signals to simultaneously send data to both your phone and a Trip 300 cycling computer. The sensor is concealed neatly on the inside of your chainstay to maintain a clean appearance and aerodynamic functionality.

Blendr Compatible Stem

The bike is compatible with Blendr

The Trek Domane AL 2 features a stem that is compatible with the Blendr integration system for cycling accessories. It allows for the easy attachment of various holders for lights, computers, phone holders, and navigation systems.

Blendr is a proprietary stem attachment system developed by Trek’s Bontrager components team. It fits a wide range of purpose-built Blendr Duo Base attachments to fit almost any bicycle accessory. No need for any more fiddly screw-on or clip-on attachments that often fail, putting your devices at risk.

There are seven sizes of Trek Domane AL 2 for riders 4’11” to 6’3″

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

Trek Domane AL 2 is worth the money!

It fits neatly into the price range of road bikes with similar components. While you might find cheaper bikes with a Shimano Claris drivechain, not many would benefit from the same quality frame materials that Trek is famous for.

When you add the lightweight carbon fork and high-quality finishing touches, you have a bike that would be difficult to beat for around $1,000. If you can afford the extra cash for the Domane AL3 and want slightly better parts, go for it. But if you want value for money, with the Domane AL 2, you certainly can’t go wrong.

Check out our other Trek Domane reviews: AL3 , SL 4 , SL 5 , and SL 6 .

Want to read more about Trek Bikes? Check out our review on the best Trek Bicycles You Can Get .

suggested

The Domane AL 2 is part of a range of Trek bikes aimed at riders looking to advance their road cycling to the next level. While it is one of the lowest-specced bikes in the range, it is in no way a beginner’s bike.

The Domane AL 2 is the perfect bike for an amateur rider that wants to begin competing more seriously in competitions or weekend sports.

If you feel you are already past the stage of an amateur competitor, you could check out the slightly upgraded Domane AL3. It’s slightly lighter and benefits from a Shimano Sora groupset.

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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.

Dave Rome

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). 

A 28 mm tyre sits within the wide front fork.

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. 

The front end of the Domane AL, showing the cable routing entering the headset.

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. 

A photo of the back of the bike, showing the derailleur hanger, number of speeds, and rear thru-axle.

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). 

Geometry chart belonging to new the Domane AL.

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. 

A wide photo showing the front end of the bicycle, with the fork in focus. It shows a red paint that fades to a deeper colour at the fork blade.

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. 

Front of bike, showing a large number of headset spacers.

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. 

A close up of the Domane logo on the top tube.

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!

A close up of the Bontrager wheel and tyre.

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. 

Full bike shot, showing a modified version of the Domane AL with a change of wheels.

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. 

Front disc brak.

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. 

The Shimano Claris drivetrain in view, with a focus on the rear derailleur.

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. 

Headset top cap lifted with to show the internal cable routing and headset bearing.

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.

test trek domane al 2

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. 

A view from of the downtube, taken from the back of the bike.

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A Review Of My Trek Domane AL 2 Disc

Trek domane al 2 disc road bike review.

  • Final rating

For those who are on a budget and looking to get into road cycling, choosing the Trek Domane AL 2 would be a wise choice as it will offer reliability, comfort as well as speed.

  • Budget friendly
  • comfortable ride
  • needed very little servicing
  • weight limit
  • vibrations on bumpier ground

User Review

Introduction.

I’m back with another cycling-related blog post and this time I’m reviewing my very own road bike, the Trek Domane AL2.

I purchased this bike in early 2020 and have had the pleasure of riding 1000’s of miles on it through some of the most scenic routes in mid-Wales . I wanted to share my experiences of riding this bike with you so you can read an honest review which may help you decide whether this bike could be the one for you.

At the time of purchase, this was the very first road bike I’d ever purchased as I’d been predominantly into off-road riding up to that time, although I did have a hybrid which I used for some road cycling.

The Covid pandemic changed everything in the world of cycling; for the first time ever the roads we clear, the weather was superb and the days were long with plenty of time to get on the open road – what better opportunity to rack up the miles on the road bike, especially with many other sports out of the question due to the rules at the time.

Features of the Trek Domane AL 2

Here are what I consider to be the most important features of the Trek Domane AL 2:

In my experience of owning this bike for a number of years, the components have mostly all been great. Here is a breakdown of what I’ve experienced so far:

Frame: As expected, no issues whatsoever and still to this day after many hours of riding, even through the testing Welsh weather it is still looking great, albeit with a few scratches.

Weight and weight limits: The Trek Domane AL2 feels light compared to all the other bikes I’ve ever ridden and this definitely shows on some of the local climbs.

Brakes: The brakes are still performing brilliantly and offer great reliability in all conditions.

Handlebar tape: This was one aspect that I found slightly disappointing with the bike, after not so much riding I had to change the handlebar tape as it had become loose.

Tyres: Great tyres which have offered solid performance across many roads, steep climbs and fast descents.

Chain and cassette: The Trek Domane AL 2 has offered some of the smoothest shifting I’ve ever experienced and still continues to do so to this day.

Some of the great things I’ve found about the Trek Domane AL 2

So, what have I found to be some of the best features of the Trek Domane AL 2?

Having a predominantly mountain biking background where you are sat in a more upright position, I was worried about the switch to the different posture needed for road cycling.

Whilst it did take some getting used to, the geometry of the Trek Domane AL 2 has offered comfort on rides.

I think the Trek Domane AL 2 was a great purchase for the price I paid for it, and even to this day it is still a fantastic price when you consider the amount of price rises in recent times.

I often like to track value for money against the amount of miles I complete in a year – this year I’ve managed a lower total of around 1200, but that still makes the cost less than £1 a mile!

Reliability

The Trek Domane AL 2 has never let me down. From short rides of under 10 miles to long rides of over 50 miles this bike has always delivered amazing performance and I’ve never had to worry about whether I’ll make it home.

DuoTrap S compatibility

Although I’ve never taken advantage of this feature you are able to connect a Bluetooth speed and cadence sensor to track performance via a compatible device. I had something similar on an old hybrid bike which I used to use for Zwifting and these are a good option if you are looking to track performance.

Low servicing need

After all the miles I’ve completed on this bike I’ve only taken it back to the bike shop for one full service. I think this shows how well the bike is put together and designed to cope with high mileage.

Additional features of the Trek Domane AL 2

There are a couple of additional features on the Trek Domane AL 2 which can be utilised if needed:

  • The bike arrives without pedals as standard giving you the freedom to choose which pedals best suit your style.
  • The Trek is built with long-distance and comfort in mind meaning you can be sure to feel as comfortable at the end of a long ride as you did at the start.
  • There is also options to add additional items such as mud guards and saddle bags.

Current cost of the Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 3

Not that I’m in the market for another road bike at the moment, but the Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 3 is currently priced at around £900, which I think makes it excellent value for money.

You’d be able to pick up an older model or second hand Trek Domane for much less than this, and providing the second hand model is in good condition you can expect hours of cycling enjoyment.

Does it look good?

Take a look at my pictures below and make up your own mind, but I think the model I chose looks fantastic, and I’ve had quite a few compliments over the years on how good it looks. I personally love the colours but I did remove the orange reflectors!

Trek Domaine 2 in Aberystwyth cycle fest

A round up of the pros and cons of the Trek Domane AL 2

bike with a view

  • Budget friendly – a great value bike for anyone, but especially for those looking to get into road cycling
  • A very reliable bike which will enable you to complete many worry-free miles
  • The Trek Domane has good geometry for a comfortable ride.
  • My Trek Domane has been super reliable and has needed very little servicing since new.
  • 125kg weight limit could be problematic if you plan to attach heavy baggage to the bike for touring rides.
  • The rider can feel some vibrations through the handlebars on bumpier ground.
  • Only suitable on road surfaces.

Final rating and conclusion

I’m giving the Trek Domane AL 2 a solid 4.5/5 final rating as this bike has performed solidly for many miles, across a variety of different mid-Wales courses.

For those who are on a budget or looking to get into road cycling, choosing the Trek Domane AL 2 would be a wise choice as it will offer reliability, comfort as well as speed, a bike that is suited to climbing and options for modifying to suit the riders needs.

I haven’t regretted purchasing my Trek Domane AL 2 at all and I’m looking forward to many more miles, once the weather has improved a little bit – in the meantime I’ll head back to Zwift!

mike k

Mike is an experienced road cyclist and mountain biker and splits his time between the two disciplines. In his spare time he can often be found tackling the big hills and mountains of mid-Wales, attempting to beat his previous times

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2023 Trek Domane AL 2 Review

Are you in the market for a new bike? Look no further than the 2023 Trek Domane AL 2. But before you make your purchase, it’s important to know what you’re getting into.

Trek is a well-known brand in the cycling world, and their Domane line has been a popular choice for riders of all levels.

The 2023 version of the Domane AL 2 promises to be a great entry-level option for those looking for a reliable and comfortable ride.

2023 Trek Domane AL 2 Review

In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the features and specifications of the 2023 Trek Domane AL 2, as well as its pros and cons.

By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of whether or not this bike is the right fit for you.

If you’re looking for a versatile road bike that can handle long distances and rough terrain, the 2023 Trek Domane AL 2 might be the bike for you.

2023 Trek Domane AL 2 Review

The 2023 Trek Domane AL 2 is a high-quality road bike designed for riders seeking a comfortable and versatile ride.

Featuring Trek’s 100 Series Alpha Aluminum frame, this bike is lightweight and durable, perfect for long-distance rides or commuting.

2023 Trek Domane AL 2 Review

– Lightweight and sturdy 100 Series Alpha Aluminum frame.

– Endurance geometry for a comfortable riding position.

– Shimano Claris 2×8-speed drivetrain with a 11-32t cassette and compact 50/34t chainrings for smooth and reliable shifting.

– Alloy dual-pivot rim brakes for powerful and reliable stopping.

– Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite, wire bead, 60 tpi, 700x28c tires for excellent grip and performance.

– Fender mounts for added versatility.

– Designed for long-distance rides, commuting, and everything in between.

2023 Trek Domane AL 2 Review

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just getting started, the 2023 Trek Domane AL 2 is a great choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and versatile road bike.

With its lightweight frame, smooth ride, and reliable components, this bike is sure to provide years of enjoyable riding.

2023 Trek Domane AL 2 Review

Frame and Design

The 2023 Trek Domane AL 2 features a lightweight, but sturdy aluminum frame that is designed to absorb shock and reduce fatigue during long rides.

Some of the frames features are fender mounts, DuoTrap S compatible, rim brakes, and 130x5mm quick release skewers. 

The bike’s sleek and modern design is sure to turn heads on any ride.

2023 Trek Domane AL 2 Review

Components and Performance

The 2023 Trek Domane AL 2 is equipped with a Shimano Claris 2×8 drivetrain that provides ample gearing options from its 11-32t cassette and 50/34t compact chainring set.

The bike also has Alloy dual-pivot brakes that offer reliable and consistent stopping power in most all weather conditions.

The bike’s Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite tires are wide enough at 28mm to provide stability and traction on rough roads, but not so wide that they slow you down on smooth pavement.

2023 Trek Domane AL 2 Review

Comfort and Fit

The 2023 Trek Domane AL 2 is designed for comfort on long rides.

The bike’s endurance geometry puts the rider in a more upright position, which reduces strain on the back and neck.

The bike also has a Bontrager saddle that provides ample cushioning and support.

2023 Trek Domane AL 2 Review

Value and Price

The 2023 Trek Domane AL 2 offers excellent value for its price.

With its combination of high-quality components, comfortable design, and durable frame, this bike is a great option for anyone looking to get into road cycling or upgrade their current bike.

Overall, the 2023 Trek Domane AL 2 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a road bike that can handle a variety of terrain and distances.

Its combination of comfort, performance, and value make it a top pick for riders of all levels.

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

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Trek Domane Bikes Compared: Which One to Choose?

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In this article, I’ll help you navigate the Trek Domane endurance road bikes (also sometimes called all-road gravel bikes) by comparing the Domane AL 2 to SLR 9 .

You will also learn:

  • Who are they best suited for?
  • Why I think you shouldn’t buy Trek Domane with SRAM groupset.
  • And which model gives you the best value for your money?

KEY TAKEAWAY

Trek Domane bikes are ideal for on and off-road adventures. They are lighter but less terrain-oriented than the Trek Checkpoint family . The models differ in components (e.g., electronic shifting) and frames. The more expensive ones are usually lighter and have a higher-grade carbon frame, but usually diminishing returns.

Let’s dive deeper to help make your decision easier.

Trek Domane AL 2 to SLR 9

The following table summarizes the main differences between all Domane bikes.

Domane Pros & Cons Summary

I summarized the pros & cons of the Domane series below.

Domane Pros

  • Wide tire clearance (up to 38mm)
  • Aluminum and carbon models are available
  • Versatility
  • Relaxed geometry
  • Availability in multiple sizes and colors
  • Integrated cable routing
  • Lifetime warranty

Domane Cons

  • Slower than Madone and heavier than Émonda road bikes

Domane Main Features

Let me now explain the most important features of the Trek Domane road bikes.

Frame and Geometry

The Domane bikes are part of Trek’s road and gravel bikes lineup (together with Trek Checkpoints ). They’re made of aluminum or carbon , depending on the price range.

Trek Domane.

The names of the bikes have abbreviations that refer to the type of material used for the frame:

  • AL  are  aluminum  frame bikes.
  • SL are bikes with 500 series OCLV*  carbon (mid-range).
  • SLR are bikes with 800 series OCLV carbon (high-end).

*OCLV carbon is Trek’s patented carbon fiber process ( learn more ).

ALR Domanes are great for beginners, thanks to their affordability. They are competitive with bikes from other manufacturers.

SLs are the best mid-range option. They are lighter than ALs but heavier than SLRs. But they are much more expensive than ALs and more affordable than SLRs.

And finally, SLRs are the most high-end, which results in lower weight but higher price.

Most Domanes are available in 47-62 sizes, so whether you are short or tall, you should find a size that will suit you.

They are also available in multiple colors to suit your liking.

Their geometry is relaxed, similar to other endurance road bikes or all-road gravel bikes.

It’s ideal for long-distance riding at a slower pace because it is more gentle to your lower back and neck. The following picture shows the comparison with Canyon Endurance CF 7.

Trek Domane vs. Canyon Endurance geometry comparison using bikeinsights.com tool.

Weight & Aerodynamics

Trek Domane frames are heavier than Émonda, especially due to their thicker tubes, hidden storage compartments, and IsoSpeed decoupler on the higher-end models.

However, they take inspiration from Madones, so you can also enjoy some aero gains.

Trek Domane view from the front.

Unfortunately, no data from wind-tunnel testing are available. However, if you don’t count every second and prefer comfort, Domane is hands down a better option.

Wheels and Tires

Most low to mid-range Domane models come with Bontrager Paradigm SL (or Comp) aluminum wheels. More expensive models have carbon wheels like the Bontrager Aeolus Pro 37 or better.

Fortunately, all the wheels are tubeless-ready. Just make sure that the model you choose has tubeless tires if this feature matters to you.

Domane bikes are known for their wider tire clearance compared to Madone and Émonda (28mm). They can fit tires up to 38mm, making them ideal for light gravel, dirt roads, and other off-road adventures.

The wider tire clearance is what makes Domane bikes so versatile. You can ride them fast on paved roads, but they can also handle off-road terrain.

Unlike many gravel bikes on the market, the Domane bikes have 2X drivetrains, not 1X.

Trek fits them with Shimano and SRAM groupsets, and the number in the bike name indicates the groupset.

  • Models ending with 2 use Shimano  Claris  (R2000) groupset.
  • Models ending with 3 use Shimano  Sora  (R3000) groupset.
  • Models ending with 4 use Shimano  Tiagra  (R4700) groupset.
  • Models ending with 5 use Shimano  105  (R7000) groupset.
  • Models ending with 6 use Shimano Ultegra , 105 Di2 (R7100) or SRAM Rival AXS groupsets.
  • Models ending with 7 use Shimano Ultegra Di2 (R8100) or SRAM Force AXS groupsets.
  • Models ending with 9 use Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 (R9200) or SRAM Red AXS groupsets.

SRAM RED groupset detail on Trek Domane.

Interestingly, the Domanes with SRAM are heavier than the Domanes of the same series with the Shimano groupset. In addition, those with Shimano are also cheaper.

This is somewhat strange because Shimano retail prices are higher than SRAM. That’s why I recommend choosing Trek bikes with Shimano groupsets unless you prefer SRAM.

TIP : You might also be interested in this comparison of Shimano vs. SRAM .

Unlike the Émonda and Madone, Trek Domane bikes have racks and fenders mounts , making them a better choice for bike packers.

Additionally, they also offer hidden storage compartments for extra storage capacity.

Hidden compartment on the Trek Domane.

And lastly, carbon frame Domanes have an IsoSpeed decoupler that improves riding comfort by absorbing road vibrations.

IsoSpeed decoupler on the Trek Domane detail.

So, which Trek Domane bike is the best?

If you’re considering buying a Domane, I suggest a model with a Shimano groupset. They are lighter and less expensive than the equivalent SRAM models.

The AL models are ideal for beginners and those who want to try a versatile road bike.

I believe the Domane SL models offer a better price-value ratio than SLRs because they are much cheaper while being reasonably lightweight and have similar components. The Domane SL 6 with the Shimano 105 Di2 is a good deal.

If you have more money to spend and don’t want to compromise, check out the SLR line.

Trek Domane FAQ

Trek Domane bikes are for bike packers and those who don’t want to limit themselves to paved roads only. Wider tires on Domanes will allow you to ride off-road through light terrain and experience new adventures.

The main difference between Domane and Madone is that Domane is a more versatile road bike thanks to the wider tire clearance, while Domane is faster because it’s an aero road bike. For more detailed info, please check out my comparison of Domane vs. Madone .

The main difference between Domane and Émonda is that Domane is a versatile (endurance) road bike with wider tire clearance. Émonda is a simple, lightweight racing bike. Domane is somewhere between Émonda and Madone. Learn more in my Domane vs. Émonda comparison.

The main difference between Domane and Checkpoint is that Domane is a versatile road bike that can also be classified as an all-road gravel bike. It has narrower tire clearance and fewer mounting points than Checkpoint. Checkpoint is a pure gravel bike with different gearing. Check out my Domane vs. Checkpoint comparison for more details.

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test trek domane al 2

  • Rider Notes

2020 Trek Domane AL 2

test trek domane al 2

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

Manufacturer Price

For This Bike

View more similar bikes →

Based on frame geometry and build specs.

A bike with lower gearing will be easier to ride up steep hills, while a higher top end means it will pedal faster down hills.

Domane AL 2

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  • 6'0", size 56cm, Just right

VeloNews

Oct 2021 · Ben Delaney

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

Read Review

road.cc

Jul 2021 · Mat Brett

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

Smooth ride

Space for big tyres

Internal storage

Not especially light

Jan 2021 · Dave Rome

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

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

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

Canadian Cycling Magazine

Jul 2020 · Terry McKall

Entry level road bike or weekday commuter? How about both

Bikerumor

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

Road Bike Action

Apr 2020 · Troy Templin

Trek’s Domane+ offers added boost (sometimes)

Dec 2019 · Richard Windsor

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

Comfortable

Slightly sluggish on steep hills

Cyclist

Dec 2019 · Stu Bowers

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

Supremely smooth

Wide tyre clearance

Direct handling

Lacks low-end punch

Somewhat heavy

99 Spokes on YouTube

Last updated August 21 Not listed for 1,345 days

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Trek Domane AL 2 : le patin n’est pas mort !

Trek domane al 2 : description et analyse.

Confortable, stable et relativement léger pour cette gamme de prix, le Trek Domane AL 2 a tout pour vous convaincre si votre budget est inférieur à 1000€ !

Les caractéristiques clés

Un vélo avec freinage patin (une version disque existe aussi) et poids contenu pour une polyvalence plutôt intéressante. Dans la lignée d’un Specialized Allez, ce Trek Domane est un très bon vélo de route.

Les coloris proposés pour ce Trek Domane

Pour le cru 2023, on retrouve deux coloris avec le Trek Black / Carbon Smoke ainsi que le Mulsanne Blue / Matte Trek Black ! Des peintures bien travaillées sur cette gamme de prix raisonnée.

Une paire de roues lourde mais robuste

Côté roues, on retrouve une paire de jantes maison avec les Bontrager. Tubeless Ready, elles se montrent un peu lourdes. Le poids des roues n’est pas communiqué… Preuve que ?

Le conseil de la rédac :

Un groupe complet Shimano Claris

Ce vélo de route Trek Domane AL 2 est équipé d’une transmission Sora 8 vitesses et double plateaux.

La cassette arrière 11-32 est couplée avec le double plateau compact 50/34.  La longueur des manivelles dépendra surtout de la taille du cadre mais varie entre 165 et 175 mm.

Sur ce Trek Domane, la plupart des composants sont issus de la marque Bontrager (qui appartient à Trek). On retrouve donc une selle Bontrager P3 Verse Comp avec rails en acier, un cintre Bontrager Comp VR-C ou encore une potence Bontrager Elite.

À qui est destiné ce Trek Domane ?

Avec un tube de direction plus haut, ce Trek Domane est clairement tourné vers l’endurance. La stabilité et le confort sont ses deux points forts pour enchainer facilement les heures de selle. On notera aussi la compatibilité avec des garde-boue, idéal pour les sorties humides hivernales.

Trek Domane AL 2 : notre avis de testeur

Si votre budget le permet, upgradez par la suite ce Trek Domane AL 2 avec une paire de roues carbone à patin !

✅ son prix ✅ sa polyvalence

❌ les roues d’origine ❌ son poids

Vos questions à propos du produit Trek Domane AL 2

Trek domane al 2 : combien ça coûte , quels sont les avantages du produit trek domane al 2 , quels sont les inconvénients du produit trek domane al 2 , 3 autres vélos de route qui devraient vous intéresser.

test trek domane al 2

Excellent rapport poids / rigidité Prix contenu

test trek domane al 2

✅ Le confort ✅ Le rendement ✅ Le rapport composants / prix

test trek domane al 2

✅ Fixations sur le top tube ✅ Câblerie intégrée ✅ Prix

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test trek domane al 2

IMAGES

  1. Vélo route Trek Domane AL 2

    test trek domane al 2

  2. Trek Domane AL 2 Disc Road Bike 2021 Trek Black/Carbon Smoke

    test trek domane al 2

  3. Domane AL 2

    test trek domane al 2

  4. An Overview Of Trek Domane AL2

    test trek domane al 2

  5. An Overview Of Trek Domane AL2

    test trek domane al 2

  6. Trek Domane AL 2 Road Bike 2023 Gloss Blue/Matt Black

    test trek domane al 2

VIDEO

  1. Test Ride Impression TREK DOMANE AL ... Sumringah banget rasanya!!

  2. TREK Domane 5.9 Review

  3. Should YOU buy the 2023 Trek Domane AL 5?

  4. Trek Domane AL 3 Two Week Review And Impressions

  5. TREK Domane+

  6. TREK DOMANE AL 2 GEN 4 || review

COMMENTS

  1. Trek Domane AL 2 review

    Trek Domane AL 2 review - BikeRadar

  2. Trek Domane AL 2 Review: Endurance Riding on a Budget

    The Trek Domane AL 2 features a stem that is compatible with the Blendr integration system for cycling accessories. It allows for the easy attachment of various holders for lights, computers, phone holders, and navigation systems. Blendr is a proprietary stem attachment system developed by Trek's Bontrager components team.

  3. 2024 Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4 review: Budget all-road

    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 ...

  4. 2019 Trek Domane AL 2

    Trek's new Domane AL Disc is definitely worth a look. Read Review. Bike Test: Trek's Domane+ LT 7. Apr 2020 · Troy Templin. Trek's Domane+ offers added boost (sometimes) Read Review. Trek Domane SL 6. Dec 2019 · Richard Windsor. The versatile and comfortable Trek Domane SL 6 put to the test.

  5. A Review Of My Trek Domane AL 2 Disc

    The Trek Domane AL 2 doing amazing things in the Aberystwyth cycle fest. 44-mile ride and 3000ft of elevation! A round up of the pros and cons of the Trek Domane AL 2 The Trek Domane AL 2 having a deserved rest in the Aberystwyth sunshine. Pros. Budget friendly - a great value bike for anyone, but especially for those looking to get into road ...

  6. 2022 Trek Domane AL 2

    The All-New Trek Domane AL Gen 4 Gets a Half-Pound Lighter with More Room for Tires. Sep 2023. Now on its fourth iteration, the Trek Domane AL is packed with updates, a lighter frame, and room for larger tires. Read Review. Trek Domane AL review: Blurring the line. Sep 2023 · Alvin Holbrook.

  7. 2023 Trek Domane AL 2 Disc Review

    The 2023 Trek Domane AL 2 Disc is an entry-level road bike with a range of features for riders who are looking for a reliable, performance-oriented ride. For the rider on tight budget, you won't find many alternatives at this price point that offer the same level of quality and performance. The Domane AL 2 Disc's well thought out frame ...

  8. 2024 Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4

    2024 Trek Domane AL 2 Gen 4 review: Budget all-road - Escape Collective. Feb 2024 · Dave Rome. Trek's most budget road bike, revamped, and still with class-leading tyre clearance. ... The Trek Domane SLR 7 AXS Gen 4 in review - Head-to-head in our all-road group test. Sep 2023 · Calvin Zajac. Can the Trek Domane SLR 7 AXS Gen 4 prove to ...

  9. Start Road Riding With This Bike

    Everyone has to start road riding somewhere and a road bike like this 2021 Trek Domane AL 2 presents a perfect place to start. It uses an aluminum frame and ...

  10. 2021-2022 Trek Domane AL 2

    #NewBikeDay! This is my first ever road bike: The 2021 Trek Domane AL 2. It's Trek's most affordable roadie with a 2x8 full Shimano Claris group set, aluminu...

  11. 2023 Trek Domane AL 2 Review

    The 2023 Trek Domane AL 2 features a lightweight, but sturdy aluminum frame that is designed to absorb shock and reduce fatigue during long rides. Some of the frames features are fender mounts, DuoTrap S compatible, rim brakes, and 130x5mm quick release skewers. The bike's sleek and modern design is sure to turn heads on any ride.

  12. 2022 Trek Domane AL 2 Disc Feature Review & Weight

    The Trek Domane AL 2 Disc is a pretty neat way to get a versatile Trek road bike at a low cost. It's the same frame they use all the way up until the carbon ...

  13. 2018 Trek Domane AL 2

    2018 Trek. Domane AL 2. An aluminum frame endurance bike with mid-range components and rim brakes. ... The versatile and comfortable Trek Domane SL 6 put to the test. Highs. Versatile. Comfortable. Great spec. Lows. Slightly sluggish on steep hills. ... The Trek Domane SL7 endurance road bike comes in a wide variety of specs, prices and with ...

  14. Trek Domane Bikes Compared: Which One to Choose?

    Trek Domane AL 2 to SLR 9. The following table summarizes the main differences between all Domane bikes. Domane AL 2 Domane AL 2 Disc Domane AL 3 Disc Domane AL 4 Disc Domane AL 5 Disc Domane SL 5 (Gen 4) ... You can read more about how I pick and test products and about my story. Feel free to follow me on my social media:

  15. Domane AL 2

    Domane AL 2 is the perfect gateway to comfortable road biking. It's stable, light, easy to accessorize, and fun to ride—all of which makes it the ideal choice for anyone looking for a great first experience with a real road bike. Plus, it's built in Trek's performance heritage and backed by our lifetime warranty. Compare. Color / Matte Trek ...

  16. Your Riding Journey Starts Here: 2023 Trek Domane AL 2 Disc Review

    Trek has designed this bike so that your road riding journey starts with the 2023 Trek Domane AL 2 Disc beginner road bike. We explore the features of this b...

  17. Domane AL 2 Gen 3

    Domane AL 2 Gen 3. 128 Reviews / Write a Review. Model 1045557. Retailer prices may vary. Domane AL 2 Disc is an awesome pick for your first road bike. The lightweight frame is responsive yet stable for a fun, confidence inspiring ride. Plus, it's built with reliable parts and disc brakes that provide better stopping power in any weather.

  18. 2020 Trek Domane AL 2

    Trek Domane AL Disc 4 review: An astounding and affordable all-roader - CyclingTips. Jan 2021 · Dave Rome. ... Bike Test: Trek's Domane+ LT 7. Apr 2020 · Troy Templin. Trek's Domane+ offers added boost (sometimes) Read Review. Trek Domane SL 6. Dec 2019 · Richard Windsor.

  19. Domane AL 2 Rim

    Domane AL 2 Rim. 136 Reviews / Write a Review. $999.99 $1,129.99. Model 1044959. Retailer prices may vary. Domane AL 2 is the perfect gateway to comfortable road biking. It's stable, light, easy to accessorize, and fun to ride—all of which makes it the ideal choice for anyone looking for a great first experience with a real road bike. Compare ...

  20. 2021 Trek Domane AL2 Disc Review :Gravel or Road Bike

    Gravel Kidz Review of the 2021 Trek Domane AL2 Disc. The Gravel Bike that you can find. Check out the store at https://gravelkidz.com/Tubeless conversion Val...

  21. Vélo de route Trek Domane AL 2 : caractéristiques, avis et stock

    Ce vélo de route Trek Domane AL 2 est équipé d'une transmission Sora 8 vitesses et double plateaux. La cassette arrière 11-32 est couplée avec le double plateau compact 50/34. La longueur des manivelles dépendra surtout de la taille du cadre mais varie entre 165 et 175 mm. Sur ce Trek Domane, la plupart des composants sont issus de la ...

  22. Trek Domane Al2 Disc

    A closer look and a quick review on the Trek Domane Al2 Disc.Full specs:https://www.trekbikes.com/us/en_US/bikes/road-bikes/performance-road-bikes/domane/dom...