trek domane slr 9 test

Trek Domane+ SLR 9 Review

Are you in the market for a new high-performance road bike? Look no further than the Trek Domane+ SLR 9.

With its cutting-edge technology and sleek design, this bike is sure to impress even the most discerning riders.

When it comes to road bikes, Trek is a name that is synonymous with quality and innovation.

The Domane+ SLR 9 is the latest addition to their line-up, and it promises to deliver an unparalleled riding experience.

In this review, we will take a closer look at the Trek Domane+ SLR 9 and explore its features, performance, and overall value.

Whether you’re a professional cyclist or just someone who enjoys hitting the road on the weekends, this bike is worth considering.

So, let’s dive in and see what the Domane+ SLR 9 has to offer.

– Lightweight carbon frame: The Domane+ SLR 9 features a high-performance 800 Series OCLV carbon frame that is both strong and lightweight, providing a smooth and responsive ride.

– Electric assist: Equipped with a powerful 250W motor, this bike offers pedal-assist up to 28 mph, allowing riders to conquer hills and cover more ground with ease.

– IsoSpeed technology: The Domane+ SLR 9 incorporates Trek’s innovative IsoSpeed technology, which provides a smooth and comfortable ride by absorbing road vibrations and reducing fatigue.

– Long-lasting battery: The bike is equipped with a long-lasting 360Wh battery, providing enough power for extended rides without worrying about running out of charge.

– High-performance components: From the Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37 carbon wheels to the Shimano Dura-Ace hydraulic disc brakes, every component on this bike is designed for maximum performance and reliability.

– Versatile riding experience: Whether you’re tackling challenging climbs, cruising on flat roads, or exploring new terrains, the Domane+ SLR 9 offers a versatile riding experience suitable for various riding styles and preferences.

– Trek quality and warranty: As with all Trek bikes, the Domane+ SLR 9 is built with exceptional craftsmanship and backed by Trek’s lifetime warranty, ensuring peace of mind and long-lasting enjoyment.

One of the standout features of the Trek Domane+ SLR 9 is its powerful electric motor.

The bike is equipped with a 250W TQ-HPR50 motor, which provides a maximum pedal-assist speed of 28 mph.

This motor ensures that riders can effortlessly conquer steep climbs and maintain high speeds on flat terrain.

Additionally, the motor is seamlessly integrated into the frame, giving the bike a clean and sleek look.

The Domane+ SLR 9 also features a high-capacity battery, allowing riders to enjoy long rides without worrying about running out of power.

The 360Wh battery provides a range of up to 60 miles, depending on factors such as terrain and rider weight.

The battery is easily removable, making it convenient for charging and storage.

In terms of comfort, the Domane+ SLR 9 excels.

It features Trek’s renowned IsoSpeed decoupler technology, which separates the seat tube from the top tube and allows for greater vertical compliance.

This results in a smoother and more comfortable ride, especially on rough roads.

The bike is also equipped with a carbon fiber frame, which helps absorb vibrations and further enhances comfort.

The Domane+ SLR 9 comes with high-quality components that contribute to its exceptional performance.

It is equipped with a Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 electronic drivetrain, providing smooth and precise shifting.

The bike also features Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, which offer reliable stopping power in all weather conditions.

The Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37 carbon wheels ensure excellent aerodynamics and responsiveness.

Performance

When it comes to handling, the Domane+ SLR 9 delivers.

The bike has a stable and predictable feel, allowing riders to confidently navigate corners and descents.

The combination of its lightweight frame and powerful motor makes it a joy to ride, whether you’re tackling challenging climbs or enjoying a leisurely ride on flat terrain.

Overall, the Trek Domane+ SLR 9 is a top-of-the-line electric road bike that offers outstanding performance and comfort.

Its powerful motor, long battery life, and advanced features make it an excellent choice for both casual riders and experienced cyclists.

Whether you’re looking to explore new routes or enhance your cycling experience, the Domane+ SLR 9 is sure to impress.

Order yours online today and pick it up at your local Trek store, or have it delivered to your home!

Other Popular Bikes

• 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

Velotric Packer 1 eBike Review

Masi Brunello Nove Review

2023 Royce Union RCF Mountain Bike Review

2023 Trek Slash 7 Review

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trek Domane SLR 7

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

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

Custom Options

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

Big Clearance

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

Now With Threads

The Domane uses a threaded T47 bottom bracket.

Flexy Tongue

The compliance of the rear IsoSpeed system is adjustable.

Burrito Carrier

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

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

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

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

Join Bicycling All Access for in-depth bike reviews

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Domane Family

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

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

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

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

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

Ride Impressions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A gear editor for his entire career, Matt’s journey to becoming a leading cycling tech journalist started in 1995, and he’s been at it ever since; likely riding more cycling equipment than anyone on the planet along the way. Previous to his time with Bicycling , Matt worked in bike shops as a service manager, mechanic, and sales person. Based in Durango, Colorado, he enjoys riding and testing any and all kinds of bikes, so you’re just as likely to see him on a road bike dressed in Lycra at a Tuesday night worlds ride as you are to find him dressed in a full face helmet and pads riding a bike park on an enduro bike. He doesn’t race often, but he’s game for anything; having entered road races, criteriums, trials competitions, dual slalom, downhill races, enduros, stage races, short track, time trials, and gran fondos. Next up on his to-do list: a multi day bikepacking trip, and an e-bike race. 

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

The Best Beach Cruisers for Leisurely Rides

The Best Hardtail Mountain Bikes

Best Hybrid Bikes You Can Buy Right Now

The 14 Best Road Bikes of 2024

The Best Commuter Bikes for Getting Around Town

The 10 Best Electric Bikes, Tested by Our Editors

These Folding Bikes Can Go Everywhere

Smoother and Faster: The New Pivot Switchblade

The Best Beginner Mountain Bikes

Reviewed: Colnago's Italian Made C68 Gravel

The 6 Best Kids’ Bikes in 2024

Trek Domane SLR 9 eTap review

Trek's new domane does double isospeed.

You can trust Cyclingnews Our experts spend countless hours testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

This article originally appeared on BikeRadar

Trek Domane 5.9 Dura-Ace review

Trek Domane SLR with front and rear IsoSpeed launched

SRAM Red eTap HRD first ride review

John Degenkolb's custom Trek Domane SLR - Gallery

The original 2012 Domane revolutionised endurance road bikes, but its innovative bump-eating rear end wasn't matched by the IsoSpeed fork. Trek's answer to this imbalance is IsoSpeed within the head tube.

• Highs: Extraordinary comfort, control and performance
• Lows: We'd prefer cleaner-looking, simpler brake calipers
• Buy if: You want a bike that offers as much to the non-racer as to the pros

The new front decoupler has a rocker cup fixed to each side of the head tube by individual pivots, with the upper headset bearing on top. The steerer tube rotates as normal, but can flex fore and aft independently, with no lateral movement.

Trek has redesigned the rear IsoSpeed decoupler system and made it user-adjustable. Instead of a freely-flexing seat-tube, only attached above the bottom bracket by a pivot, this one's moulded to the top tube. The upper two thirds of it is concave, with a separate seat mast completing its profile, this is pierced by the decoupler pivot below the top tube.

You can adjust the rear IsoSpeed decoupler to suit your comfort criteria

The narrow slot between frame and mast contains a U-shaped plastic slider. Loosening the fixing bolt allows the slider to be moved, altering the mast's compliance, with more flex at its lowest point, and less at its highest.

Think of it as a plastic ruler suspended over the edge of a table. Twanging a greater length of ruler means greater oscillation, but pull more on to the table, and the oscillations are limited. It needs no specialist maintenance, and there is no weight penalty — Trek's 600 series carbon fibre, excellent construction and components bring my 56cm example in at an impressive 6.71kg.

When it comes to travelling quickly, the Domane SLR is as effective as any road bike available. Its wide BB90 bottom bracket allows for a huge down tube and solid chainstays, and the oversized IsoSpeed head tube area provides massive front end rigidity. The cumulative effects of the inbuilt compliance delay the onset of muscle fatigue, saving you from tiring vibrations and letting you enjoy riding for longer.

I tested a 56cm Trek Domane SLR 9 eTap, which weighed in at an impressive 6.71kg

Bontrager's 28mm R3 tyres on Aeolus 3 carbon rims have a large air volume and generous contact patch. Incredible frame compliance plus big tyres maximise surface contact, increasing cornering grip, steering and braking accuracy, rider confidence and consequently speed.

The Trek uses Bontrager's compact direct-mount Speed Stop brake calipers with Bontrager-badged Swiss Stop Black Prince pads. Tension adjustment is okay, but not that precise, and it's possible for the free cable beyond the clamp to rub the tyre unless carefully positioned. But they work effectively, with decent feel and power.

With clean lines, intuitive shifting and minimal maintenance, SRAM eTap's compact gearing matches the Domane's go-anywhere abilities. With lengthy 42cm chainstays, a slack 71.9-degree head angle, and 100.8cm wheelbase, the Domane is very stable, and boasts generous tyre clearance, ideal for larger rubber, mucky roads, or for fitting mudguards to the hidden mounts.

Bontrager's Isocore carbon bar incorporates gel pads for comfort and control, and the Affinity Pro carbon rail saddle proved popular.

It's hard to find a weakness in the Domane SLR's makeup. Cutting-edge technology doesn't come cheap, but there's a lot going on in that frame. It accelerates well, and tames rough surfaces like no fast road bike ever has. 

Specification Name: Domane SLR 9 eTap Built by: Trek Price: £7,600.00 / US$11,000.00 / AU$12,999.00

Available Sizes: 50cm 52cm 54cm 56cm 58cm 60cm 62cm Bottom Bracket: BB90 Brakes: Bontrager Speed Stop direct-mount, Swiss Stop pads Cassette: SRAM Red 11-28 Chain: SRAM Red 22 Cranks: SRAM Red eTap, 50/34 Fork: Domane full carbon Fork Offset: 5 Frame Material: 600 Series OCLV carbon, IsoSpeed Front Derailleur: SRAM Red eTap Front Tyre: Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite tubeless 700x28mm Front Wheel Weight: 1070 Handlebar: Bontrager Isocore Pro VR-CF carbon Head Angle: 71.9 Headset Type: Integrated sealed cartridge Rear Derailleur: SRAM Red eTap Rear Tyre: Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite tubeless 700x28mm Rear Wheel Weight: 1380 Saddle: Bontrager Affinity Pro carbon Seat Angle: 73.5 Seatpost: Bontrager Ride Tuned seatmast Shifters: SRAM Red eTap Stem: Bontrager RXL alloy Trail: 6.5 Weight (kg): 6.71 Wheelset: Bontrager Aeolus 3 TLR Bottom Bracket Height (cm): 27 Chainstays (cm): 42 Seat Tube (cm): 48 Standover Height (cm): 80 Top Tube (cm): 55 Wheelbase (cm): 100.8 Frame size tested: 56cm 

Thank you for reading 5 articles in the past 30 days*

Join now for unlimited access

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

*Read any 5 articles for free in each 30-day period, this automatically resets

After your trial you will be billed £4.99 $7.99 €5.99 per month, cancel anytime. Or sign up for one year for just £49 $79 €59

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

Don't think, just dance: Alison Jackson's Paris-Roubaix Bike

Specialized teams to ditch Roubaix for Paris-Roubaix, brand predicts

First Remco Evenepoel, now Mikel Landa crashes out of Itzulia Basque Country

Most Popular

By Peter Stuart February 23, 2024

By Claire Sharpe February 22, 2024

By Tom Wieckowski February 15, 2024

By Tom Wieckowski February 14, 2024

By Josh Ross February 09, 2024

By Josh Ross February 07, 2024

By Claire Sharpe February 06, 2024

By Josh Ross February 05, 2024

By Immy Sykes February 05, 2024

By Claire Sharpe February 02, 2024

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

Trek Domane SLR 9 eTap review

Trek’s new Domane does double IsoSpeed

Russell Burton / Immedite Media

Robin Wilmott

Extraordinary comfort, control and performance

We’d prefer cleaner-looking, simpler brake calipers

The original 2012 Domane revolutionised endurance road bikes, but its innovative bump-eating rear end wasn’t matched by the IsoSpeed fork. Trek’s answer to this imbalance is IsoSpeed within the head tube.

• Bike of the Year 2017: Specialized Roubaix wins Road Bike of the Year
• Specialized Roubaix Pro Di2 review
• Giant TCR Advanced SL 0 review

The new front decoupler has a rocker cup fixed to each side of the head tube by individual pivots, with the upper headset bearing on top. The steerer tube rotates as normal, but can flex fore and aft independently, with no lateral movement.

Trek has redesigned the rear IsoSpeed decoupler system and made it user-adjustable. Instead of a freely-flexing seat-tube, only attached above the bottom bracket by a pivot, this one’s moulded to the top tube. The upper two thirds of it is concave, with a separate seat mast completing its profile, this is pierced by the decoupler pivot below the top tube.

The narrow slot between frame and mast contains a U-shaped plastic slider. Loosening the fixing bolt allows the slider to be moved, altering the mast’s compliance, with more flex at its lowest point, and less at its highest.

Think of it as a plastic ruler suspended over the edge of a table. Twanging a greater length of ruler means greater oscillation, but pull more on to the table, and the oscillations are limited. It needs no specialist maintenance, and there is no weight penalty — Trek’s 600 series carbon fibre, excellent construction and components bring my 56cm example in at an impressive 6.71kg.

When it comes to travelling quickly, the Domane SLR is as effective as any road bike available. Its wide BB90 bottom bracket allows for a huge down tube and solid chainstays, and the oversized IsoSpeed head tube area provides massive front end rigidity. The cumulative effects of the inbuilt compliance delay the onset of muscle fatigue, saving you from tiring vibrations and letting you enjoy riding for longer.

Bontrager’s 28mm R3 tyres on Aeolus 3 carbon rims have a large air volume and generous contact patch. Incredible frame compliance plus big tyres maximise surface contact, increasing cornering grip, steering and braking accuracy, rider confidence and consequently speed.

The Trek uses Bontrager’s compact direct-mount Speed Stop brake calipers with Bontrager-badged Swiss Stop Black Prince pads. Tension adjustment is okay, but not that precise, and it’s possible for the free cable beyond the clamp to rub the tyre unless carefully positioned. But they work effectively, with decent feel and power.

With clean lines, intuitive shifting and minimal maintenance, SRAM eTap’s compact gearing matches the Domane’s go-anywhere abilities. With lengthy 42cm chainstays, a slack 71.9-degree head angle, and 100.8cm wheelbase, the Domane is very stable, and boasts generous tyre clearance, ideal for larger rubber, mucky roads, or for fitting mudguards to the hidden mounts.

Bontrager’s Isocore carbon bar incorporates gel pads for comfort and control, and the Affinity Pro carbon rail saddle proved popular.

It’s hard to find a weakness in the Domane SLR’s makeup. Cutting-edge technology doesn’t come cheap, but there’s a lot going on in that frame. It accelerates well, and tames rough surfaces like no fast road bike ever has.

Share this article

Contributor

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

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!

Powered by Outside

First ride review: Trek Domane+ SLR 9 eTap

Trek takes a leap forward in its e-road bikes..

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 .

On the heels of the recently updated Domane SLR endurance bike, Trek has introduced an electric version called the Domane+ SLR that improves significantly upon the brand’s previous e-road bikes.  

The Domane+ SLR is a mid-drive class-3 e-bike, meaning it is powered by a motor in the bottom bracket and can achieve assisted speeds of 28mph (in the United States at least — other markets have differing maximum legal speeds). By utilizing a compact and quiet yet still powerful TQ harmonic pin ring motor, and building the bike with top end OCLV 800 carbon, Trek has been able to design a lightweight, sleek package weighing under 30 pounds.  

Trek has also borrowed features from the non-electric Domane SLR, including non-adjustable rear IsoSpeed decouplers at the top-tube and seatstays for comfort, and added in space for 40mm tires, effectively making this a gravel bike too.

Also read:  Trek releases significantly lighter Domane SL and SLR

Trek claims a 60-mile range in the lowest assist level, eco, which can be boosted to 90 miles with an external range extender battery.  

For the complete run-down on details, click here .  

So how does it ride?

First ride review

I took the bike on a 23-mile ride with 2,300 feet of climbing that included road climbs, road descents, a gravel climb and a healthy stretch of crosswinds. In the course of that varied route, I made use of all three assist modes, with liberal use of the highest assist mode on climbs.  

I found eco mode to be a little tame for my liking in terms of assist level and I could feel some of the bike’s extra weight. The Domane+ SLR is light by e-bike standards at about 27 pounds, but that’s still about 10 more than the non-electric version. The next highest assist level, however, helped the bike come more alive, and I found that to be an enjoyable trade-off between speed from the bike and challenging myself to still pedal hard and get in a good ride.  

The third and strongest assist mode is great to engage when the gradients get steep. You still have to put in work on climbs, but the motor makes going uphill much more manageable. Just be careful about using this mode too much because it churns through the battery at a fast clip.  

Eco mode can come on a bit strong, causing a lurching feeling when you get moving again after a traffic light before backing off, but otherwise the assist levels feel well balanced. More power is delivered from the motor as your cadence increases, and Trek does a good job of providing a wattage boost complementary to the rider’s own input that feels smooth and natural on the road, rarely feeling overbearing.  

The only time I felt like there was too much power for an extended period of time was on a technical gravel climb, with the highest assist mode making me feel like I was along for a ride, rather than choosing my own line. But backing off to the second assist level solved this.

Trek lets you adjust these assist modes in the Trek Central app, letting you change maximum power, assist percentage, and quickness of the pedal response. Many of these personal preferences on power delivery, and speed at which more assist is provided when you start pedaling, can be fine tuned to find the perfect balance.  

One gripe with the ergonomics of the control buttons is that they can only be accessed from the hoods. It’s an improvement over systems that require you to move your hand to a button on the top tube, but it would be nice if these buttons were more accessible from the drops as well.

The motor is also quiet regardless of mode, sounding more like a faint whistle, and never feels like it’s struggling like a blender’s motor trying to cut through a thick sludge. Trek claims the new bike is 1.5-times less loud than previous e-bikes it has made, and that seems to be the case in the real world.  

Range could be a limiting factor for some. After a 90 minutes, with time spent in all three modes but a lot in the highest assist level on the climbs, the display showed 40% battery remaining, down from a full charge at the start.  

For rides in the two or two-and-a-half-hour range, even with a healthy amount of climbing thrown in, the Domane+ SLR in its base form will provide enough range to not worry about how much time you’re spending in each assist mode. For anything longer, you’ll want to stay in eco-mode for most of the trip, or get the range extender for peace of mind. Trek’s app also has a ride calculator that helps estimate battery use on a given ride.

Trek has managed to keep a non-electric feel to the Domane+ SLR’s handling. It descends confidently and feels agile despite its 10-pound weight penalty, and doesn’t get pushed around much in crosswinds.

And it’s still comfortable like the regular Domane SLR, owing to the IsoSpeed decoupler and 40mm tubeless gravel tires. But hitting any potholes you do feel the added weight of the bike. The narrow Q-factor of the TQ motor also goes a long way in making the bike feel like a traditional road bike, eliminating one drawback of other motors that can make other e-bikes hard to fit truly right, especially on long rides.

Specification

SRAM Red eTap 1x groupset (42T chainring, 10-44T cassette); Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37V wheelset; Bontrager GR1 tires in 700x40c; Bontrager Pro IsoCore VR-SF handlebar; Bontrager RCS Pro stem; Bontrager P3 Pro saddle; Domane carbon seatpost

Price as tested: $13,000

Popular on Velo

\n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/power-analysis-tour-of-flanders-mathieu-van-der-poel\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"power analysis: the moment mathieu van der poel won the tour of flanders\"}}\u0027>\n power analysis: the moment mathieu van der poel won the tour of flanders\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"pinkbike digest:\u00a0dropper posts are out, dropper frames are in, plus why bernard kerr\u2019s prototype frame broke at crankworx rotorua","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/mountain\/pinkbike-digest-dropper-posts-are-out-dropper-frames-are-in-plus-why-bernard-kerrs-prototype-frame-broke-at-crankworx-rotorua\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/mountain\/pinkbike-digest-dropper-posts-are-out-dropper-frames-are-in-plus-why-bernard-kerrs-prototype-frame-broke-at-crankworx-rotorua\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"pinkbike digest:\u00a0dropper posts are out, dropper frames are in, plus why bernard kerr\u2019s prototype frame broke at crankworx rotorua\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/mountain\/pinkbike-digest-dropper-posts-are-out-dropper-frames-are-in-plus-why-bernard-kerrs-prototype-frame-broke-at-crankworx-rotorua\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"pinkbike digest:\u00a0dropper posts are out, dropper frames are in, plus why bernard kerr\u2019s prototype frame broke at crankworx rotorua\"}}\u0027>\n pinkbike digest:\u00a0dropper posts are out, dropper frames are in, plus why bernard kerr\u2019s prototype frame broke at crankworx rotorua\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"remco evenepoel fuming over tt \u2018head-sock\u2019 botched ban as primo\u017e rogli\u010d races with it for the win","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/remco-evenepoel-fuming-over-head-sock-tt-miscue-michael-rogers-leaves-uci-post\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/remco-evenepoel-fuming-over-head-sock-tt-miscue-michael-rogers-leaves-uci-post\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"remco evenepoel fuming over tt \u2018head-sock\u2019 botched ban as primo\u017e rogli\u010d races with it for the win\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/remco-evenepoel-fuming-over-head-sock-tt-miscue-michael-rogers-leaves-uci-post\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"remco evenepoel fuming over tt \u2018head-sock\u2019 botched ban as primo\u017e rogli\u010d races with it for the win\"}}\u0027>\n remco evenepoel fuming over tt \u2018head-sock\u2019 botched ban as primo\u017e rogli\u010d races with it for the win\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"mark cavendish hits another pothole in path to tour de france as racing return delayed","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/mark-cavendish-hits-another-pothole-in-path-to-tour-de-france-as-racing-return-delayed\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/mark-cavendish-hits-another-pothole-in-path-to-tour-de-france-as-racing-return-delayed\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"mark cavendish hits another pothole in path to tour de france as racing return delayed\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/mark-cavendish-hits-another-pothole-in-path-to-tour-de-france-as-racing-return-delayed\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"mark cavendish hits another pothole in path to tour de france as racing return delayed\"}}\u0027>\n mark cavendish hits another pothole in path to tour de france as racing return delayed\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"rogli\u010d is back, evenepoel crashes, pidcock out: wild start in basque country","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/tt-recon-crash-knocks-tom-pidcock-out-of-itzulia-basque-country\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/tt-recon-crash-knocks-tom-pidcock-out-of-itzulia-basque-country\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"rogli\u010d is back, evenepoel crashes, pidcock out: wild start in basque country\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/tt-recon-crash-knocks-tom-pidcock-out-of-itzulia-basque-country\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"rogli\u010d is back, evenepoel crashes, pidcock out: wild start in basque country\"}}\u0027>\n rogli\u010d is back, evenepoel crashes, pidcock out: wild start in basque country\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"ratio technology announce ovalsized jockey wheels","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-gear\/ratio-technology-announce-ovalsized-jockey-wheels\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-gear\/ratio-technology-announce-ovalsized-jockey-wheels\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"ratio technology announce ovalsized jockey wheels\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-gear\/ratio-technology-announce-ovalsized-jockey-wheels\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"ratio technology announce ovalsized jockey wheels\"}}\u0027>\n ratio technology announce ovalsized jockey wheels\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"tour of flanders tech gallery: what we found today in belgium","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-gear\/tour-of-flanders-2024-tech-gallery\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-gear\/tour-of-flanders-2024-tech-gallery\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"tour of flanders tech gallery: what we found today in belgium\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-gear\/tour-of-flanders-2024-tech-gallery\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"tour of flanders tech gallery: what we found today in belgium\"}}\u0027>\n tour of flanders tech gallery: what we found today in belgium\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"without rival: mathieu van der poel dominates tour of flanders with magnus sheffield in top-10","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/without-rival-mathieu-van-der-poel-dominates-tour-of-flanders-with-sensational-solo-victory\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/without-rival-mathieu-van-der-poel-dominates-tour-of-flanders-with-sensational-solo-victory\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"without rival: mathieu van der poel dominates tour of flanders with magnus sheffield in top-10\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/without-rival-mathieu-van-der-poel-dominates-tour-of-flanders-with-sensational-solo-victory\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"without rival: mathieu van der poel dominates tour of flanders with magnus sheffield in top-10\"}}\u0027>\n without rival: mathieu van der poel dominates tour of flanders with magnus sheffield in top-10\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"michael matthews relegated off tour of flanders podium in controversial ruling","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/michael-matthews-relegated-off-tour-of-flanders-podium\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/michael-matthews-relegated-off-tour-of-flanders-podium\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"michael matthews relegated off tour of flanders podium in controversial ruling\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/michael-matthews-relegated-off-tour-of-flanders-podium\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"michael matthews relegated off tour of flanders podium in controversial ruling\"}}\u0027>\n michael matthews relegated off tour of flanders podium in controversial ruling\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"\u2018the hardest race i\u2019ve ever done\u2019: matteo jorgenson blown away by brutal tour of flanders","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/the-hardest-race-ive-ever-done-matteo-jorgenson-vanquished-by-van-der-poel-in-tour-of-flanders\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/the-hardest-race-ive-ever-done-matteo-jorgenson-vanquished-by-van-der-poel-in-tour-of-flanders\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"\u2018the hardest race i\u2019ve ever done\u2019: matteo jorgenson blown away by brutal tour of flanders\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/the-hardest-race-ive-ever-done-matteo-jorgenson-vanquished-by-van-der-poel-in-tour-of-flanders\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"\u2018the hardest race i\u2019ve ever done\u2019: matteo jorgenson blown away by brutal tour of flanders\"}}\u0027>\n \u2018the hardest race i\u2019ve ever done\u2019: matteo jorgenson blown away by brutal tour of flanders\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"review: specialized\u2019s new search \u2018all-road\u2019 helmet & updated recon shoes","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-gear\/review-specialized-search-helmet-recon-2-shoes\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-gear\/review-specialized-search-helmet-recon-2-shoes\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"review: specialized\u2019s new search \u2018all-road\u2019 helmet & updated recon shoes\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/gravel\/gravel-gear\/review-specialized-search-helmet-recon-2-shoes\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"review: specialized\u2019s new search \u2018all-road\u2019 helmet & updated recon shoes\"}}\u0027>\n review: specialized\u2019s new search \u2018all-road\u2019 helmet & updated recon shoes\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"matteo jorgenson defends dwars tactics, plus injury updates for van aert, stuyven, girmay: \u2018wout cried out in pain\u2019","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/matteo-jorgenson-defends-dwars-tactics-and-injury-updates-for-van-aert-stuyven-girmay-wout-cried-out-in-pain\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/matteo-jorgenson-defends-dwars-tactics-and-injury-updates-for-van-aert-stuyven-girmay-wout-cried-out-in-pain\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"matteo jorgenson defends dwars tactics, plus injury updates for van aert, stuyven, girmay: \u2018wout cried out in pain\u2019\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/matteo-jorgenson-defends-dwars-tactics-and-injury-updates-for-van-aert-stuyven-girmay-wout-cried-out-in-pain\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"matteo jorgenson defends dwars tactics, plus injury updates for van aert, stuyven, girmay: \u2018wout cried out in pain\u2019\"}}\u0027>\n matteo jorgenson defends dwars tactics, plus injury updates for van aert, stuyven, girmay: \u2018wout cried out in pain\u2019\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"how many carbs inside the monumental menus that fuel tour of flanders, paris-roubaix, and cycling\u2019s cruelest classics","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-training\/pro-cyclists-fuel-tour-of-flanders-paris-roubaix\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-training\/pro-cyclists-fuel-tour-of-flanders-paris-roubaix\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"how many carbs inside the monumental menus that fuel tour of flanders, paris-roubaix, and cycling\u2019s cruelest classics\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-training\/pro-cyclists-fuel-tour-of-flanders-paris-roubaix\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"how many carbs inside the monumental menus that fuel tour of flanders, paris-roubaix, and cycling\u2019s cruelest classics\"}}\u0027>\n how many carbs inside the monumental menus that fuel tour of flanders, paris-roubaix, and cycling\u2019s cruelest classics\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"uci announces initial findings in its urgent review into hookless rims and tires","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/uci-announces-initial-findings-in-its-urgent-review-into-hookless-rims-and-tires\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/uci-announces-initial-findings-in-its-urgent-review-into-hookless-rims-and-tires\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"uci announces initial findings in its urgent review into hookless rims and tires\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/uci-announces-initial-findings-in-its-urgent-review-into-hookless-rims-and-tires\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"uci announces initial findings in its urgent review into hookless rims and tires\"}}\u0027>\n uci announces initial findings in its urgent review into hookless rims and tires\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"wout van aert\u2019s classics exit sends shockwaves through visma-lease a bike: \u2018he was in the form of his life\u2019","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/wout-van-aerts-classics-exit-sends-shockwaves-through-visma-lease-a-bike-he-was-in-the-form-of-his-life\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/wout-van-aerts-classics-exit-sends-shockwaves-through-visma-lease-a-bike-he-was-in-the-form-of-his-life\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"wout van aert\u2019s classics exit sends shockwaves through visma-lease a bike: \u2018he was in the form of his life\u2019\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/wout-van-aerts-classics-exit-sends-shockwaves-through-visma-lease-a-bike-he-was-in-the-form-of-his-life\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"wout van aert\u2019s classics exit sends shockwaves through visma-lease a bike: \u2018he was in the form of his life\u2019\"}}\u0027>\n wout van aert\u2019s classics exit sends shockwaves through visma-lease a bike: \u2018he was in the form of his life\u2019\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"3,000 calories, endless cobbles: deciphering the stem sticker nutrition strategies of the tour of flanders","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-training\/deciphering-nutrition-strategies-tour-of-flanders\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-training\/deciphering-nutrition-strategies-tour-of-flanders\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"3,000 calories, endless cobbles: deciphering the stem sticker nutrition strategies of the tour of flanders\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-training\/deciphering-nutrition-strategies-tour-of-flanders\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"3,000 calories, endless cobbles: deciphering the stem sticker nutrition strategies of the tour of flanders\"}}\u0027>\n 3,000 calories, endless cobbles: deciphering the stem sticker nutrition strategies of the tour of flanders\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"updated: wout van aert out of flanders, roubaix with \u2018broken collarbone and several ribs\u2019","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/wout-van-aert-exits-in-ambulance-after-crash-decimates-dwars-door-vlaanderen\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/wout-van-aert-exits-in-ambulance-after-crash-decimates-dwars-door-vlaanderen\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"updated: wout van aert out of flanders, roubaix with \u2018broken collarbone and several ribs\u2019\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/wout-van-aert-exits-in-ambulance-after-crash-decimates-dwars-door-vlaanderen\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"updated: wout van aert out of flanders, roubaix with \u2018broken collarbone and several ribs\u2019\"}}\u0027>\n updated: wout van aert out of flanders, roubaix with \u2018broken collarbone and several ribs\u2019\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"forget the favorites: here are five outsiders for the tour of flanders","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/five-outsiders-for-the-tour-of-flanders\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/five-outsiders-for-the-tour-of-flanders\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"forget the favorites: here are five outsiders for the tour of flanders\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/five-outsiders-for-the-tour-of-flanders\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"forget the favorites: here are five outsiders for the tour of flanders\"}}\u0027>\n forget the favorites: here are five outsiders for the tour of flanders\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"was matthews robbed is the koppenberg too steep all hail mvdp, elb: flanders finest delivers","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/was-matthews-robbed-is-the-koppenberg-too-steep-all-hail-mvdp-elb-flanders-finest-delivers\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/was-matthews-robbed-is-the-koppenberg-too-steep-all-hail-mvdp-elb-flanders-finest-delivers\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"was matthews robbed is the koppenberg too steep all hail mvdp, elb: flanders finest delivers\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/was-matthews-robbed-is-the-koppenberg-too-steep-all-hail-mvdp-elb-flanders-finest-delivers\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"was matthews robbed is the koppenberg too steep all hail mvdp, elb: flanders finest delivers\"}}\u0027>\n was matthews robbed is the koppenberg too steep all hail mvdp, elb: flanders finest delivers\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "},{"title":"report: grand tour-smashing lead sport director to leave visma-lease a bike","url":"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/grand-tour-smashing-ds-zeeman-to-leave-visma-lease-a-bike\/","markup":" \n \n\n\n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/grand-tour-smashing-ds-zeeman-to-leave-visma-lease-a-bike\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"report: grand tour-smashing lead sport director to leave visma-lease a bike\"}}\u0027>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n >\", \"path\": \"https:\/\/velo.outsideonline.com\/road\/road-racing\/grand-tour-smashing-ds-zeeman-to-leave-visma-lease-a-bike\/\", \"listing_type\": \"recirc\", \"location\": \"list\", \"title\": \"report: grand tour-smashing lead sport director to leave visma-lease a bike\"}}\u0027>\n report: grand tour-smashing lead sport director to leave visma-lease a bike\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n "}]' > >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>advertise >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>privacy policy >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>contact >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>careers >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>terms of use >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>site map >", "name": "footer-menu", "type": "link"}}'>my newsletters manage cookie preferences privacy request healthy living.

• Clean Eating
• Vegetarian Times
• Yoga Journal
• Fly Fishing Film Tour
• National Park Trips
• Warren Miller
• Fastest Known Time
• Trail Runner
• Women's Running
• Bicycle Retailer & Industry News
• FinisherPix
• Outside Events Cycling Series
• Outside Shop

© 2024 Outside Interactive, Inc

Trek Domane SLR 9 AXS Gen 4 Review

The 2023 Trek Domane went on a serious diet for its 4th generation. Now with just half the IsoSpeed as before, wider tires and a comfort-tuned carbon layup make up the difference on the Gen 4 Domane. In review for almost a year now, the Domane SLR 9 AXS is likely a shoe-in for 2023 bike of the year honors.

Trek Domane SLR 9 AXS Gen 4 Features:

• 800-Series OCLV Carbon frame and fork
• Rear IsoSpeed only
• Aerodynamic Kammtail tube shapes
• Integrated frame storage in downtube
• Full SRAM Red AXS drivetrain with Quarq Zero power meter
• Internal cable routing for a clean look (and watt savings)
• Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37 wheelset
• Bontrager Verse Short Pro saddle with carbon rails
• Bontrager Pro IsoCore VR-SF 42mm bars
• Clearance for 38mm tires
• T47 threaded bottom bracket
• Weight: 16.6 lbs (56cm, actual)
• MSRP: $13,199

Domane SLR Gen 4 stunner

This particular frame and build kit represents the best that Trek offers in their Gen 4 lineup. At a $13,199 price point, there better not be anything left to be desired. No doubt, every box is checked with their highest-level wheels, components and paint. SRAM Red AXS is the best there is and an integrated power meter is a necessity for demanding riders. Including the versatile and fast Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37 Wheelset is also a great choice — even though someone paying this much for a bike may want a set of Zipp 353 NSW wheels. (As luck would have it, I tested those on this bike too.) That said, the Domane SLR 9 is for those with deep pockets or adept budgeting skills.  For more details you can ogle over the specs on the Trek web site .

While this spec is the best of the best, thankfully much of the performance I’ve come to love can be had at lower price points. The SLR models start at $7999 while the SL models start at $3499. Trek also offers Domane SLR, SL and RSL framesets should you wish to swap parts from your existing bike and/or do a custom build.

Utilizing Trek’s best 800-series OCLV carbon throughout, the Domane SLR 9 AXS is light enough to go toe-to-toe with many climbing bikes, yet comfortable enough to ride all day on all terrain. You’ll notice that the simplified IsoSpeed unit is now only in the rear and absent from the head tube. That alone dropped hundreds of grams off the frame. Tube shapes are now optimized for aerodynamics as well, for a true one-bike quiver.

Most high-end bikes now come with full internal routing from drops to stays. While the sleek lines do make for an amazing aesthetic, most of the time that type of routing limits stack height variations or cockpit changes unless you’re a skilled mechanic. Thankfully, Trek has outfitted the Domane SLR AXS with a separate bar/stem and unique cable routing that allows for cockpit and fit changes without much fuss. The secret is the Bontrager RCS Pro Blendr Stem , with its cable-concealing cover that hides and routes brake cables neatly through the head tube. Spacers can be inserted or removed and stem length/rise can be accommodated (within a reasonable range) without brake hose disassembly.

Fit and geometry

A quick note on the overall fit and geometry of the new 4th-gen Domane. As Trek’s most popular model, the Domane is built to fit everyday riders and high-octane riders alike. You can slam it or let your body dictate the right feel. For me, the geometry is as if it was custom-built. With two 5mm spacers and a 100mm stem, the reach is spot-on and I’m in the proper position to attack all types of terrain in absolute comfort. And, because it has a separate bar and stem, I can further change the cockpit as needed.

Something to note is that if you have long legs for your frame size, you might find yourself needing a longer seatpost than comes standard. I have a 30″ saddle height and that’s within a few millimeters of the max height. I don’t see alternative lengths available for purchase, but perhaps my sample bike inadvertently came with a shorter length?

Compared to other endurance bikes, like the Cannondale Synapse Carbon 1 RLE and the BMC Roadmachine X One , the Gen 4 Domane looks and feels pro with minimal spacers. I love the sleek look, but most of all I love that I can get into the correct body position for best performance on the Domane. It’s not always that my 48-yr-old self can have a bike that looks sleek and pro and fits like a glove, but that’s what I get with the new Domane.

Of course, your best fit starts with your friends at your local Trek dealer, who can begin with their fit system and refine from there. Or, you can get fully-dialed with a professional bike fitter for maximum performance. (I use my friend, Jeff Sherrod at Precision Bike Fit here in Sandy, UT.)

First rides and more

As you should know by now, I actually ride test bikes and products for a long time before posting a review. I have the luxury of not being beholden to editorial timelines or advertising campaigns. With this bike arriving in August 2022, I’ve had it a long time. Utah’s epic snow year did draw things out — but that’s not the only reason. The real reason is because this bike is so much fun. So, beyond a first ride impression, this is a well-rounded review of how the Domane SLR performs on all types of terrain and conditions — including gravel.

My first three pre-launch rides went swimmingly. Each one was on roads and Strava segments I’ve ridden hundreds of times. At this point, PR’s and cups are hard to come by, but each ride had a handful with several other segments just barely off those top times. Call it “Domane Courage,” but my initial results had me convinced that there’s something to this new bike.

Let’s talk about climbing first since it’s obviously second-fiddle in that department to the Emonda. Long, mountain ascents are best served by a light and snappy climbing bike, but the Domane ascends quite capably. At 16.6 lbs, it’s not the lightest bike, but it still beats everything but the pure climbers. Aerodynamics, comfort and power transfer all add to the Domane’s climbing ability. I can settle into a rhythm and knock out even the longest climbs while seated or standing. I love mixing things up with a quick shift and standing to add variety and power through steeper sections.

Some endurance bikes feel floppy when standing and climbing, but not the Domane. The frame is rock-solid and all power is efficiently converted into forward motion without wandering or wonkiness. With all the efficiency, I still appreciated the 1:1 gearing on the steepest climbs, but didn’t use it all that often as I danced my way up most climbs.

When it comes to rolling terrain, the aerodynamic shapes and fast-rolling wheels come into play. Yes, the Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite 32c tires are a little wider than the Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37 wheelset, which does reduce aerodynamics, but they also aren’t the fastest-rolling treads on the market. Still, they are comfortable and durable, which usually wins the day. Back to rolling terrain… the Gen 4 Domane SLR simply shines at speed. Once you’re pedaling along at a good clip (18-21 mph), momentum is maintained and the entire bike just slices through the wind and keeps speed through undulating terrain. Not since the 2020 Specialized Venge Pro have I had so much fun on rolling roads.

Whether you’re coming back down the Utah’s Alpine Loop or descending a shorter hill, the Domane SLR delvers confidence beyond confidence on any descent. Speeds are deceiving because the ride is just so pleasant and planted. Trek has nailed the perfect combination of road feel and road dampening. It’s easy to point it where you want it and the bike follows — almost like it’s tapped into my brain. With some luck, wide open roads have been my reward and I’ve been able to open it up and spank any descent at speeds I haven’t hit in years.

One of the keys to the Domane’s greatness is how well it handles. Most endurance bikes lack that race bike panache. They don’t track perfectly through tight corners while maintaining momentum or a progressive track. With the Gen 4 Domane, I have found it to handle as well as the best bikes I’ve tested. Yes, that means I’d stack it up against a Pinarello Dogma and the Specialized Venge Pro (two of my all-time favorite bikes). It’s as if the bike anticipates corners and allows me to angulate into and out of them in a whiptastic way. Momentum is maintained and it pops out of turns with speed. Winding descents are an absolute gas and I just can’t seem to get enough of them.

With excellent 1:1 gearing and stiff, responsive layup, I can climb up anything, roll through any roads and descend like a rock. Considering the Domane SLR’s body of work, I see it as the one to beat — by a clear margin. If you want an even racier Domane, you can custom-build the RSL frameset to your liking, but tire clearance is reduced to 35c on that frame.

Going from dual IsoSpeed to a singular, simplified unit does have some people saying that the new Domane feels less cushy than before. For me, it’s just right. Rolling at 55-60 psi with the R3 32c tires offers plenty of comfort and the IsoSpeed is icing on the cake. I appreciate Trek’s approach and the simplification this decision provides.

Domane SLR does gravel

With 38mm tire clearance, the new Domane is ready for all the local gravel routes and a wide variety of gravel tires on the market. With IsoSpeed, tubeless gravel tires and wide rims, comfort is outstanding. Instead of removing the Bontrager R3 tires, I decided to mount up a set of WTB Vulpine 36c tires to the Zipp 303 S Carbon wheels and give it a go. These tires measure out to 36.5mm and there’s plenty of clearance for even wider rubber.

I didn’t hesitate taking the Domane everywhere I ride other gravel bikes with even wider tires. Road approaches led to rolling gravel and winding singletrack. Across all terrain, the Domane responded with an adeptness I hadn’t imagined. One one of my first gravel rides, I hit a segment I’ve ridden nearly 150 times and got the third best time ever. I was floored. The Domane is not only fast and efficient on the road, but gravel too.

On singletrack, it feels just as capable as it does on wide-open gravels. The only thing I miss from my Open WIDE is the added flare from the ENVE SES AR Bars . Well, and I do miss a little more rubber to charge even harder on rough terrain. But, standing climbs, fast flats and descents are all tackled with capability beyond anticipation with an “endurance” bike. If you can find the right treads, I’d max them out at 38c and find yourself a second set of gravel wheels ( Bontrager Aeolus Pro 51 or Pro 3V are both great choices for easy swapping).

For gravel or other long rides, the downtube storage is a huge bonus. With a flat kit in there and a few other small items, you can get away without a saddle bag and augment it with food or other items in jersey pockets. This storage compartment remains water-tight and keeps mud and dirt at bay. Plus, it includes a sleeve that’s set up to quietly carry tools and a flat kit.

Alas, not everything is perfect

Now that I’ve showered the latest Domane with praise, it’s time to be nit-picky a little bit. Ultimately, my biggest grip is with the handlebar selection. In my opinion, an endurance/gravel bike should not have traditional drop bars. The Bontrager Pro IsoCore VR-SF bars included here feel like a miss-spec. Not only are compact drop bars more wildly popular, they would feel better on this bike and put riders in a more versatile position when riding in the drops. The C-curved drops feel dated and out of place on a bike like the Domane. Why the shorter and more comfortable-dropped Bontrager Pro IsoCore VR-CF bars weren’t spec’d is beyond me.

The proprietary seatpost and IsoSpeed system is greatly simplified from the adjustable one from years past and provides excellent compliance and comfort without sacrificing efficiency. However, after a few creaky rides, I had to empty a sinful amount of carbon paste on the post and seat tube to keep it from creaking. Thankfully, it did fix it. On top of that, the oddly-short seatpost for a 56cm size is a little baffling.

Fit: I’m 5’11” and 175 lbs, riding the 56cm. With the stock tires, running tubeless, I settled on 55 psi front and 60 psi rear. 

• A beautiful combination of aerodynamics, efficiency and comfort
• Handles as adeptly as most race bikes
• Versatile tire clearance for all terrain
• Simply flies down curvaceous descents
• Tons of fun on gravel too
• Downtube storage is an added bonus
• Dropped a ton of weight over previous model
• R3 tires are versatile and grippy
• STABLE at speed without any twitchiness whatsoever
• Creaky seatpost required a ton of carbon paste
• Short seatpost maxes out at just over a 30″ saddle height on a 56cm frame
• Why the compact drop VR-CF bars weren’t spec’d is beyond me

The Bottom Line: Trek Domane SLR 9 AXS Gen 4

It’s hard to imagine a better overall “bike” on the market today. The Gen 4 Domane has all the right mix of aerodynamics, comfort and speed to enjoy anything you can throw at it. At speed, it’s a hammer and it just devours mountain descents with Italian-like precision. It does yield a little to pure climbers when the roads tick upwards, but that’s only a mind game since the overall package is just so delightful.

Buy Now: Visit TrekBikes.com

I settled right into the new Domane like an old friend. The geometry and spec delivered a near custom-fit for my body shape and riding style. Above all, this bike is just plain fun to ride -- everywhere. While it shines on all terrain, I love the responsive, race-like handling without any twitchiness that's sometimes associated with a fast-handling bike. It's the right combination of all the things to elevate this bike to the top of the endurance bike class, in my mind. The Domane SLR 9 AXS is expensive, but the same performance can be had at lower price points.

• Ride Quality 10
• Handling 10
• Descending 10
• Pedaling Efficiency 10
• Aesthetics 10
• Parts Kit 9

• X (Twitter)

A native of the Pacific Northwest, Jason quickly developed a love for the outdoors and a thing for mountains. That infatuation continues as he founded this site in 1999 -- sharing his love of road biking, mountain biking, trail running and skiing. With extreme attention to detail, he has been a technical product manager for top 10 web properties, eCommerce businesses and SaaS companies for 20+ years. The combination of outdoor experience and technical savvy gives him a unique perspective that is channeled into every gear review. Utah's Wasatch Mountains are his playground. He rigorously tests every product and usually uses them beyond their intended purpose -- just for the sake of testing. (Note: Jason receives sample products in exchange for authentic reviews. He is not paid, nor influenced to share anything other than his honest opinions.)

You Might Also Like

2024 trek farley 7 fat bike review, run amok: hoka speedgoat 5 gtx review, killer bibs: pearl izumi attack air bib shorts review.

Please, 55 psi front and 60 psi rear on road tires or gravel tires?

That was with the stock Bontrager R3 TLR 32mm tires on the Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37 wheeset. When I ran the WTB Vulpine 36’s on the Zipp 303 S wheelset, I ran 38 front and 40 psi rear. You can do it!

i’m in Austin TX, i’m riding my Cervello P5TT bike, I’m about to buy a new road bike, one i won’t need to upgrade as i “want” more features. happy to spend the price tag of the Trek SLR9 gen 4, (there is a little wait on it though) just wondering if you would recommend looking at anything else in the same category ? TIA

You have some good rolling terrain and rough roads/gravel out there in TX. I can’t imagine a more versatile overall bike than the new Domane SLR 9. With it, you can ride everywhere, or just the road, if that’s all you typically ride. Trek really has checked off all the boxes here — it’s responsive and light, but also comfortable and smooth. I honestly don’t know of another overall bike I’d recommend over the Gen 4 Domane.

Thanks for the first class analysis. One question I have. If you had to choose, which bike would you choose: the classic Domane or the electronic Domane +? Which did you enjoy more?

I am currently faced with the choice of which version to buy. I have some reservations about ebikes, but the prospect of riding more flexible routes and more distance in the same amount of time and still getting out there is appealing to me.

Does the + really ride like a classic bike?

Curious to hear your feedback. Jan

Thanks for the kudos and a great question about the Trek Domane+ SLR vs. the Trek Domane SLR. Both are awesome bikes for sure and the Domane+ does have many of the great features of the acoustic Domane, but it doesn’t ride like the regular Domane.

Reasons to buy the Domane+ SLR: – Covering more terrain – A little help on longer climbs – It looks and feels as close to a regular Domane as it possibly can (but it can’t match it)

Reasons to buy the Domane SLR: – MUCH lighter – Smoother overall ride – Snappier and more lively ride feel – You don’t have to worry about running out of battery (~2 hours with lots of climbing like we have here in Utah) – Handles much more adeptly – Based on your country, the Domane+ may not have the level of assist that it does in the USA (28mph here, which is great)

I really, really liked riding the Domane+. It was a really fun bike. But unless I REALLY needed an eBike, I would choose the regular Domane every time.

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

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

Trek Domane SLR 9 eTap in Review

The Trek Domane SLR 9 eTap wants to combine endurance race performance, high levels of comfort and all-round riding characteristics. Does the platform, which has already had wins at the Roubaix and Flanders races, have a chance at success in our gravel group test?

Click here for an overview of the best gravel bike 2020 group test .

Developed to dominate the Spring classics, the Trek Domane SLR 9 eTap has a range of unique features. The updated IsoSpeed system, adopted from the current Trek Madone, is designed to offer the highest level of comfort. It consists of two components. At the rear, the seat tube is decoupled from the top tube, allowing it to swing freely with adjustable compliance. An updated integrated damper is designed to reduce the undamped, springy feeling of previous versions. Up front, Trek uses the same principle by decoupling the top half of the steerer tube from the head tube to provide more compliance. The design prevents lateral movement, meaning the handling of the bike shouldn’t be affected. Additional comfort is provided by the vibration damping IsoCore carbon bar which features an elastomer fill. Integrated mounts for light, mudguards and the internally routed cables all contribute to the clean look. A compartment in the down tube eschews the need for a saddlebag, offering space for a tube, multi-tool, tyre levers and CO2 cartridge. The frameset clears up to 700 x 38C tires and is constructed from Trek’s 700 OCLV carbon – Trek’s high-end carbon construction. Our test bike came with a complete 2×12 SRAM RED eTap AXS groupset and Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V wheelset, weighed 8.08 kg in size 56 and costs € 11,299.

The Trek Domane SLR 9 eTap in detail

Drivetrain SRAM RED eTap AXS Gearing 48/35 t and 10-28 t, 2×12 Brakes SRAM RED HRD, 160/160 mm Handlebar Bontrager IsoCore VR-CF, 420 mm Stem Bontrager XXX, 100 mm Seatpost Bontrager Integrated, 20 mm offset Wheels Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V Tires Bontrager R3 TR, 700 x 32C

The Trek Domane SLR 9 eTap in review

In comparison to its test competitors, the Trek is a decidedly quick accelerator. Its excellent efficiency makes climbing easy and riding at high speeds a true delight. It’s not at all susceptible to crosswinds, offers a stable ride as well as very capable and intuitive handling. On the road, the sporty Standert has a slight advantage in terms of speed, but the scales tip in the Trek’s favour on gravel. The relatively compact position, the excellent stability and its high comfort make it the perfect companion on forest tracks. However, if you’re looking for an aggressive position, more precision and more agile handling, you might be better served by the Standert.

The Project One finish is called New Molten Marble and will melt the roads you ride

Loose ground and technical terrain can be ridden, but are not the Trek’s forte as it quickly reaches its limits here. The IsoSpeed system convinced us throughout the test period with its high level of comfort. The adjustable and well-damped compliance is a big improvement over previous versions of the concept. The down tube storage compartment can hold all the spares you need, while the low position helps maintain the bike’s centre of gravity. It’s just the inlet on the top tube for the internally routed cables that doesn’t quite match the otherwise sleek design.

If you’re on the lookout for an endurance bike for training, long rides, occasional gravel excursions and your next Gran Fondo, you don’t need to look any further. With the Trek Domane SLR 9 eTap, the American brand has introduced an innovative and coherent concept with high levels of comfort, innovative features and lots of stability. Quick direction changes that require precise line choice or riding on technical terrain are not the Trek’s strengths, which neither is nor wants to be a dedicated gravel bike.

• good stability
• high comfort without a negative impact on efficiency
• confidence-inspiring at speed

• cable routing around the cockpit
• limited in technical terrain

Riding Characteristics

Value for money, technical data.

Trek Domane SLR 9 eTap

Size: 44 47 50 52 54 56 58 60 62 Weight: 8.08 kg Price: € 11,299

Indended Use

For more info: trekbikes.com

All bikes in test: Argon 18 Dark Matter | Cannondale Topstone Carbon Ultegra RX | Canyon Grail AL 7.0 | Cervélo Áspero | Giant Revolt Advanced Pro Force | Kona Libre AL | Liteville 4-ONE MK1 | OPEN WI.DE. | Pivot Vault Team Force | ROSE BACKROAD GRX RX810 Di2 | Santa Cruz Stigmata CC | Specialized Turbo Creo SL Expert EVO | Standert Pfadfinder | Trek Domane SLR 9 eTap

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

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

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

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

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

Words: Photos: GRAN FONDO-Team

You may also like

THE LAB – Magped ROAD2 – The magnetic alternative to clipless pedals

130 BPM – Riding under doctor’s orders

THE LAB – Wahoo KICKR MOVE smart trainer – You like to move it move it?

La vie en bleu – The Unbearable Lightness of Biking

Vorfreude – the new GRAN FONDO issue #026 is here!

2024 ROSE BACKROAD FF on test – A gravel race bike gone aero

Trek Domane+ SLR 9 eTap Review

•   Home
•   Reviews
•   Brands
•   Trek Reviews
•   Trek Domane+ SLR 9 eTap Review

• Trek Reviews
• Class 3 Electric Bike Reviews
• Electric Gravel Bike Reviews
• Electric Road Bike Reviews
• Light Electric Bike Reviews
• Mid-Drive Electric Bike Reviews
• An ultra light weight 28.5lb electric road bike with endurance comfort geometry and iso speed vibration dampening seat post interface. The first ebike to feature Trek's OCLV carbon fiber. Available in five colors and seven frame sizes.
• This particular build uses top of the line SRAM components with a 1x12 drivetrain, flared drop bar, and 40c wide gravel tires. Alternative builds offer narrower road tires and a 2x12 Shimano drivetrain. SRAM Red electronic shifting and 160mm hydraulic disc brakes.
• Hidden fender mounts add utility, integrated top top tube display panel works well and is easy to read, optional smartphone app provides motor tuning settings, optional range extending 160wh bottle shaped battery pack provides 40% more range and off-bike charging.
• Excellent control pad button placement on left and right hood. Includes 4 amp fast charger despite having a lower capacity 360wh battery. Main battery not removable for charging and storage. Seat post is a proprietary shape so upgrade options are limited.

Video Review

Introduction

Body position:, suggested use:, electric bike class:, learn more about ebike classes, availability:, model year:, bicycle details, total weight:, battery weight:, motor weight:, frame material:, frame sizes:, geometry measurements:, frame types:, frame colors:, frame fork details:, frame rear details:, attachment points:, gearing details:, shifter details:, brake details:, seat post length:, tire brand:, wheel sizes:, tire details:, tube details:, accessories:, electronic details, motor brand:, motor type:, learn more about ebike motors, motor nominal output:, motor peak output:, motor torque:, battery brand:, battery voltage:, battery amp hours:, battery watt hours:, battery chemistry:, charge time:, estimated min range:, estimated max range:, display type:, drive mode:, written review.

This review was provided for free, but Trek Coquitlam supplied a temporary demo bike for me to test. My goal is to be transparent and unbiased with you, this video and writeup are not meant to be an endorsement of Trek products. I welcome your corrections, additions, and feedback in the comments below, and the Trek electric bike forums .

Observations:

• Trek is one of the “Big Three” North American bicycle manufacturers (including Specialized and Giant). The company launched in 1975, specializing in hand-brazed steel frames, and then expanded to 90 different countries. In my opinion, they are one of the very best ebike makers with high quality designs, above average support, and a wide range of frame configurations, sizes, and accessories.
• This was the first time I had ever tried the TQ drive system, and I was very impressed with the power. It’s compact, fairly quiet, and feels natural, but doesn’t sacrifice torque or high RPM support! I spun as fast as I could during my test rides, and the motor kept up very well.
• The Domane+ line of electric bike includes carbon fiber and aluminum builds. This review is focused on the SLR carbon fiber models. You can get a 2×12 Shimano Dura-Ace 24 mechanical drivetrain or the 1×12 SRAM eTap electronic divetrain featured on this ebike. The 2×12 is setup for road use with a narrower bar and tires while the 1×12 has a flared bar and knobby gravel tires. It’s amazing that each build comes in five colors and seven frame sizes!
• A fun bit of trivia for you here, the Domane+ name is an anagram of the other Trek road bike models including Madone (racing road) and Emonda (light weight climbing)! It’s their comfort endurance geometry.
• This is the lightest full sized electric bike I have ever tested and reviewed. Weighing just 28.5lbs, it’s easy to lift and carry up stairs, mount on bike racks, and pedal without assist. Still, the motor is powerful and offers noticeable support, even in the lowest of three assist levels. Trek claims it can reach 60mi per charge on this lower level, which is excellent considering the lower capacity 360wh battery pack.
• For those who wish to ride farther, Trek is offering a bottle sized range extender battery pack that actually fits into the seat post bottle cage and plugs into the charge port just below. You could conceivably carry multiple 160wh range extenders. Each one weighs just 2.09lbs.
• The Domane+ geometry is tuned for comfort and endurance riding, ideal for the Paris–Roubaix race. I found the gravel tires, short nose saddle, padded grip tape, and IsoSpeed decoupler seat post interface to provide vibration dampening qualities that felt great during my test rides.
• Clean aesthetic with near complete internal cable routing that starts at the stem, enters the steer tube, and exits near each component. Note that all non-frame hardware is black to create a professional matching look.
• I was very impressed by the TQ motor. It has a very small width of just 135mm, allowing the q-factor of the bike to be 163mm. It weighs just 4.07lbs, while most mid-drives are at least 6lbs. Based on my ride tests, I believe that it provides well over 120 RPM pedal support, so you can downshift and spin fast approaching a hill without losing motor power. The motor also cuts power extremely fast once you reduce pedal pressure and slow or stop your cadence. TQ stands for technology and quality, in case you were wondering! The Trek Fuel EXE full suspension mountain bike uses this same motor, in case you’re looking for a light mountain bike.
• This is a small thing, but I appreciate how the TQ motorized bottom bracket introduces a bit of backpedal friction, so the cranks won’t spin out of control if you slip off. It doesn’t produce a loud clicking noise when pedaling backwards, as shown in the video review above.
• For all of the Domane+ eTap models, which offer electronic shifting from SRAM, the derailleur is powered by the rechargeable ebike battery! You don’t need to worry about removing and charging a little battery pack on the derailleur like so many other models. Those batteries add weight to the derailleur, can run out before the bike, can get mud and water damage etc. It’s so convenient that everything electronic runs off the same main bike battery for this model!
• Shifting is extremely fast and quiet. I’ve heard some other electronic derailleurs that produce a louder electronic chirping noise when changing gears. The single click paddles work well, and it will shift multiple gears if you hold the paddle in longer.
• Very impressive deep dish carbon fiber wheels on this model. The rims and bladed spokes are aerodynamic. Each wheel uses just 24 spokes vs. 32 or 36 on most electric bikes I cover. This thing is very high performance.
• The brake levers have plastic paddles just below with single click to shift gears down and up. There are small circular buttons mounted inside the hoods that allow you to change assist levels down or up using your left and right thumbs respectively. It’s very intuitive and natural, and it doesn’t block any of the hand positions (hoods, drops, flats)… If you hold the left button, it will go to assist level zero for acoustic cycling. If you hold the right button it will change the display readout to show Battery Charge Level Percentage, Trip Time, Odometer, Human Watts and Motor Watts, Current Speed, Average Speed, Pedal RPM, and even Range Estimate.
• It’s cool that the frame has hidden fender mounts, on the inside of the fork and rear stays, although I believe you need to be running narrower tires to use them. The 40c wide gravel tires that come on this build are max width.
• The Trek marketing videos and descriptions explain that the TQ motor is 1.5 to 2 times quieter and less distracting than their other ebikes. I still noticed some electronic whine, but it is quieter than the higher powered Bosch motors that most of their other ebikes utilize.
• Trek designs their paints and decals with some reflectivity to add safety. They offer a bunch of aftermarket Bontrager rechargeable lights to add to handlebars, seat posts, helmets, and clothing. I think it’s great that they made a white color scheme option, since it’s highly visible in low light conditions.
• The chainring is made from light weight aluminum alloy and has a narrow wide tooth pattern to lock onto the chain, reducing drops. I noticed the carbon fiber crank arms have plastic protection at the ends, in case of ground strikes, and plastic stickers on the sides to reduce scuffs. The chain stay also has a clear plastic sticker to prevent chips and protect the paint.
• The display panel was easy to read in bright and dark conditions, it only has one button and is intuitive to interact with. I found it to be simple and reassuring. I love that it shows 10 bars on the battery charge level infographic, and that there’s a percentage readout and range estimate! Very good battery level feedback.
• These electric road bikes are very expensive, especially this particular build at nearly $13k. The most affordable build is $8,499 for the Domane+ SLR 6. I feel that in addition to the amazing frame, components, and drive system, you are also getting value from the vast network of dealers and excellent warranty here. You can spend a lot less on one of the aluminum alloy road models, but they don’t use the TQ mid-motor drive system, which is more efficient and more powerful depending on the gear you choose to pedal with.
• Since the primary battery is semi-permanently mounted inside the downtube (removable for service or replacement only), it’s less convenient to charge. Perhaps you’re commuting to work with this platform but there’s no plug near the bike rack. At home, you might have to leave the bike in a hot or cold garage which will impact the battery lifespan and daily range. I believe that Lithium-ion batteries do best in cool, dry environments and 20% to 80% fill.
• While I love that Trek chose a standard 31.8mm circular handlebar, which is easy to swap for alternative bars, the seat post is more unique and proprietary. It’s not a circular design, the back is flat. This helps to keep it straight, and might support some bend or vibration dampening in combination with the IsoSpeed seat tube mount… but you cannot swap the post out for a true suspension seat post like the Kinekt products as easily.
• The bike doesn’t ship with pedals or a kickstand, it doesn’t even offer kickstand provisions at the center or rear. This not uncommon for high performance road bikes, but it means that the bike could tip over more easily. This is especially true if you’ve got the charging cable plugged in and someone trips over it or pulls it. In general, the charge port is low on the frame and the charging cable could get snagged on one of the crank arms. I understand that they located it here for use with the Range Extender battery, which needs to plug in easily and stay out of the way while pedaling.
• Compared to most of the other city and mountain electric bicycles that Trek offers, this motor and battery pack are weaker and lower capacity. They fit the light performance build of the Domane+ but I would call this a more active ebike that depends on rider input. That said, I would call the performance above average. I prefer this TQ to the Fazua and Specialized light weight systems that I have tried. And I love that it’s a Class 3 speed pedelec in the US markets!
• There’s no USB charging port on the display panel or battery pack for maintaining portable electronics, and the 2″ top tube display panel offers limited readouts. Consider using the optional Trek Central smartphone app (for iOS and Android) for motor tuning, mapping, and more ride feedback… but you’ll have to depend on the phone battery alone.
• This is a small point, but you have to look farther down to see the integrated display panel on the top tube than if they were using a bar-mounted display. I love how clean and open the handlebar is, making a phone mount very easy. I’m not sure if you can turn the top tube display off if the light bothers you during night rides?
• I love that they chose hydraulic disc brakes for this model, even though the rotors are fairly small at 160mm diameter vs. 180mm+ that’s probably fine for a light weight road bike. The brakes appear to have an aluminum alloy core for heat dissipation, which is important for a higher speed Class 3 model like this.
• I wonder if Trek will partner with Redshift Sports Shock Stop or design a stem suspension element for their high speed road models at some point? I saw this from Specialized with the Future Shock and love how it performed. I mention this more for the non eTap models with the smoother lower volume road tires. Comfort was good on the bike, but I get more fatigue riding faster and farther on electric vs. acoustic.
• I believe this bike is only available in high step frame style. This may be due to the increased strength it offers, allowing for the light weight carbon fiber build. Still, it requires a tall standover height, which may exclude some riders.

Useful Resources:

• Trek electric bike dealers .
• Official Trek website.

Review Updated On

More trek reviews.

Trek FX+ 2 Stagger Review

• MSRP: $2,499
• MODEL YEAR: 2023
• City Electric Bike Reviews
• Commuting Electric Bike Reviews
• Hub Motor Electric Bike Reviews
• Womens Electric Bike Reviews

An affordable, quiet, light weight, feature complete electric bicycle. Available in three frame sizes and three premium colors. Assembled and serviced by one of the largest bicycle networks in North America, it comes with a two year comprehensive warranty with lifetime frame warranty.. The mid-step frame design is approachable, easy to step over, but also sturdy and light.…...

Trek Rail 9.9 XX1 AXS Review

• MSRP: $13,549.99
• MODEL YEAR: 2021, 2022
• All Mountain Electric Mountain Bike Reviews
• Downhill Electric Mountain Bike Reviews
• Electric Mountain Bike Reviews
• Full Suspension Electric Bike Reviews

Trek's best long-travel electric mountain bike, designed for All Mountain and Enduro Riding. Light weight optimum compaction low void (OCLV) carbon fiber and magnesium frame comes in three sizes. Flip chip spacer in the rear swing arm further refines geometry for low and high settings.. Available in three premium color schemes, the bike is setup with 29" wheels but can…...

Trek E-Caliber 9.9 XTR Review

• MSRP: $11,499.99
• MODEL YEAR: 2021
• Cross Country Electric Bike Reviews

One of the lightest and fastest full suspension cross country ebikes available today, weighing just 36.6lbs with pedals. Carbon frame, crank arms, seat post, handlebar, and rims, the bike comes in four sizes. Designed around Boost hub spacing with 15mm and 12mm thru-axles for improved stiffness and support for wider tires. The battery and motor are built into a removable drivepack that can be swapped for an empty storage box so you can ride as a lightweight acoustic bike at just 30.1lbs.. High quality Fox Factor air shocks front and rear. Unique single pivot strut design in…...

Trek Powerfly FS 9 Equipped Review

• MSRP: $5,999
• Hybrid Electric Bike Reviews
• Touring Electric Bike Reviews

A premium "do anything" full suspension electric bike that's equipped to handle pavement, trails, light mountain terrain, rain, shine, day, or night conditions. Available in five frame sizes for optimal fit, the XS and S come with 27.5" wheels and the M, L, and XL come with 29" wheels. Sold through one of North America's largest network of dealers. Trek and Bosch provide excellent support and warranty.. Custom made extra-wide plastic fenders are durable and quiet, very capable in off-road conditions. A…...

Trek Verve+ 3 Review

• MSRP: $2,999

The 3rd generation of Trek's popular Verve+ ebike maintains the excellent quality of previous models while providing more power and range, supported by a large network of dealers and available in a wide range of size and frame options. Excellent craftsmanship and tuning showcase Trek's prowess in bicycle manufacturing, accessories are seamlessly integrated and…...

Trek Allant+ 7 Review

• MSRP: $3,599
• MODEL YEAR: 2020
• Hardtail Electric Mountain Bike Reviews

A great all-around electric bike that's capable on city streets and light trail, it replaces the Trek Dual Sport+ from earlier years. Proven Bosch Peformance Line CX motor with shift detection. The high-step frame has mounts for adding a second battery pack (Bosch Range Boost) to double capacity, but the step-thru does not. Durable and quiet plastic fenders, sleek and sturdy Racktime rear rack, bright integrated lights with…...

Trek Verve+ 2 Review

One of Trek's most popular and affordable electric bike models, loaded with accessories and high-quality components, available in a wide range of frame types, styles, and colors, backed by a fantastic warranty, and supported by a large network of dealers and repair shops. An excellent city and commuting Ebike thanks to full plastic fenders, integrated always-on lights, and…...

Trek Dual Sport+ Review

• MODEL YEAR: 2019

A versatile electric bike that's efficient on road but capable of light trail riding as well, puncture resistant tires with tight knobby tread offer traction, stability, and a bit of comfort due to increased air volume. Durable spring suspension fork provides 63mm of travel with preload and lockout adjust, hydraulic disc…...

Trek Powerfly 7 LT Review

• MSRP: $5,499

A stealthy, long travel, all-mountain electric bike with longer wheel base and adjustable seat stay hardware to optimize geometry for climbing and descending, proprietary "Active Braking Pivot" rear suspension reduces skipping, Knock Block headset and Hartzell Hug impact-absorbing downtube bumpers allow for straight downtube. Trek-invented Boost hub spacing improves spoke bracing angle and support for larger plus sized tires,…...

Trek Super Commuter+ 7 Review

• MODEL YEAR: 2018

A stealthy looking, sturdily built, feature-rich urban electric bicycle complete with tubular alloy fenders, premium integrated lights from Supernova, and powerful hydraulic disc brakes. Upgraded Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain with one-way clutch to reduce chain bounce, sleek proprietary derailleur…...

Trek Verve+ Review

• MSRP: $2,299

A versatile city electric bike with sturdy paint-matched aluminum fenders, a bright and aimable headlight as well as a flashing backlight (both are powered by the main battery), and mounting points for a bottle cage and rear rack. Surprisingly comfortable, the wider tires provide cushion and stability, the saddle and suspension seat post…...

Trek Lift+ Lowstep Review

• MSRP: $2,799
• MODEL YEAR: 2017
• Cruiser Electric Bike Reviews
• Kids Electric Bike Reviews

A comfortable, low-step, cruiser style electric bike with balanced motor and battery position, multiple fun color choices, and several sizes (also available in high-step). Nicer 10-speed drivetrain with clutch for reducing chain bounce and slap, easy to pull hydraulic…...

Trek CrossRip+ Review

• MSRP: $4,499

A lightweight, high speed, electric road bike with sturdy 12 mm thru-axle on the front wheel, Carbon fiber fork, and Alpha 200 Gold alloy frame to dampen vibration. Capable and comfortable on hard packed trails as a gravel grinder, sturdy Aluminum fenders and…...

2017 Trek Dual Sport+ Review

A lightweight, trail-capable, hybrid commuter electric bike, the larger 700c wheelset provides efficient rolling momentum and lower attack angle to smooth out cracks and bumps. Shimano STePs mid-drive is responsive, less power hungry than competing products, and relatively quiet, The…...

Trek Neko+ Review

A sporty hybrid electric bike offering a blend of efficiency and trail capability, suspension fork with lockout, hydraulic disc brakes. Removable battery and display panel reduce weight when lifting and transporting the bike, quick release…...

Trek Super Commuter+ 8S Review

• MSRP: $4,999

A streamlined, feature-complete, commuter style electric bike with Class 3 high-speed operation (up to 28 mph), available through a wide network of dealers. 11-speed Shimano SLX drivetrain offers plenty of range for comfortable pedaling at low and high…...

Trek Powerfly 8 FS Plus Review

A full suspension trail bike from one of the "big three" brands in the US, it offers 130 mm travel with custom tuning for the added weight and power of the bike, excellent weight distribution. Quick-release wheels, removable battery, and removable display make the bike flexible and easy to transport…...

Trek XM700+ Review

• MSRP: $3,499
• MODEL YEAR: 2016, 2017, 2018

A sleek, light weight, speed pedelec capable of reaching ~28 mph, built around the Bosch Performance Speed drive system and a Shimano SLX 10 speed drivetrain. Integrated plastic fenders and chain guard keep you clean and are reinforced to reduce rattle…...

Trek Conduit+ Review

• MODEL YEAR: 2016

A light weight, high-step only electric bike with premium fenders, pannier rack and integrated LED lights that would be perfect for commuting or short range touring. Delivers Shimano hydraulic disc brakes, a 10 speed drivetrain with Shimano Deore derailleur and quality…...

Trek Lift+ Review

A light weight, efficient and more upright city style electric bike with a two year warranty, features an adjustable stem and is available in both high-step and step-thru frame styles in four sizes for improved fit. Leverages the Shimano STePs drive system keeping weight low and centered across the frame, the…...

2011 Trek FX+ Review

• MSRP: $2,679
• MODEL YEAR: 2010, 2011

An efficient road-style electric bike with narrow slick tires and carbon fiber fork available in five frame sizes. Integrated LED lights run off the main battery pack, lots of additional mounting points for…...

2011 Trek Transport+ Review

• MODEL YEAR: 2011
• Electric Cargo Bike Reviews

One of the earliest mass produced electric cargo bikes in the US (available in 2011) offered a purpose built frame with lots of attachment points (front basket, rear rack, running boards and included cargo bag). High-end drive system from BionX, rebranded as "Electric Propulsion Systems" EPS by Trek offering smooth,…...

Comments (17) YouTube Comments

Super great review! You really highlight the (lack of) noise from the motor, which is my biggest question.

Of course I have to ask the question – what’s the power like compared to the Creo, which seems like the most obvious competitor. Has brand S been one-upped by this new contender? Certainly seems like it from the noise perspective. If it offers more power, seems like we have a real challenge to the Creo’s road/gravel throne.

Full disclosure, I have a Creo SL, that over time has evolved to be equipped pretty close to the same as this one… right down to the ‘chunky’ SRAM brake noise that you can hear well with headphones. :)

Ride safe! Jack

Hello, Jack!

I would say that they are very close, and it has been so long since I rode the SL models from Specialized… it’s difficult for me to say. I was very impressed by the Trek Domane+ SLR 9, to the point where it seemed better than the Creo. Trek has been doing amazing stuff in recent years. I think Specialized is very cool, but Trek dealers are so friendly and the company just seems organized and professional. It sounds like you’re having a blast with your Creo! I bet there’s a Trek store nearby, maybe you can go for a test ride and report back with your opinion on the MAHLE from them vs. the TQ from Trek :D

I’ll do just that – these don’t seem widely available just yet, but the minute they are in Dallas, I’m all over it and will report back vs the Creo!

I don’t video well (face made for radio, LOL), but I’ll write something as soon as I can!

I came to this seeking a head-to-head comparison between the Specialized Creo & this new Trek Domane+SLR – do you plan to publish something like that?

Perhaps I’ll write something like that in the forums eventually. Been traveling for work a lot recently and just have the compare tool, which shows specs. You can watch the two videos. For me, the bikes were very comparable. I was impressed by both systems but got very excited about TQ because Trek has really earned my trust recently with their depth of products, stable dealer network, and great warranty.

I have a Specialized Creo as well, and would be interested in a comparison between the two bikes. Court, if you could get the bike from Trek Coquitlam again I’d be more than happy to meet up so you could do a video of both bikes in a comparison video. We never did connect last year. I love the idea of the Domane+ and think I’d be lot happier with it than my Creo.

Oh man! Yeah, we were planning to connect and I actually have a calendar reminder. It was so great meeting you (at DOST HQ I think?) let’s try for this. Are you free tomorrow afternoon? I think this week is going to be beautiful, give me a text or call any time. Thanks Allan!!

OOOH – I hope you guys have video for us soon! :)

Sorry, I didn’t check until now so I’m sure tomorrow afternoon has passed. I will send you a pm with my cell again. I know I had yours but no longer have it. If you want to meet up some time for a ride I’m game, and of course I’d love to do a video of the Creo and Domane+. It would be cool to be in a video, that way everyone who I’ve met on the forums here could see me!

So this is what $13K gets you? Yow!

But it’s nice to have such a wide assortment of bikes and price points available for the enthusiast. Still, to me it’s a bit like a purist comparing the pros and cons of the McLaren seat-belt buckle mechanism to the one in a Ferrari.

To each his own.

Does the Domane+ SLR 6 integrate with a Garmin head unit (1040 solar)? I noticed that there isn’t a place to install the DuoTrap in the chainstay like previous Trek bicycles. I’m curious if the Garmin will be able to read information from the Domane+ computer.

I’d also like to know if the Garmin 1040 solar will pair with the Shimano Di2 system and allow the Enhanced Di2 system setup and information like it does for the Edge 1030?

There seems to be a shortage/backorder for the range extender battery pack (as in “there not available with no timeline provided for shipment”) which is disappointing . . . I’m not sure what the hangup is but one would think Trek would have a better grip on their supply chain when they advertise the extender in their literature.

Hi Paul, yeah it’s interesting that many of the Range Extender options for Trek, Specialized, and others are frequently out of stock. I don’t have answers for your Garmin questions, but perhaps someone else will chime in, or you can re-post in the Trek ebike forums here .

Hi, nice summary. Can you tell me what the bike is like with the assist turned off? Is there any noticeable motor friction? I have a Bosch powered eMTB which is like riding a tank if you turn assist off!! thanks

Hi David! In my experience, the reduced weight of the battery and motor for the TQ system makes this electric bike feel much more natural when pedaled without assist. It’s responsive, there’s no extra friction when pedaling, and the weight is pretty low. Hope this helps, but you can also usually find a Trek dealer to take a test ride and see for yourself!

I have the “more affordable version”, haha. The SLR6, with Shimano Di2 and the road wheels/tires (32mm). It rolls really well without any assist at all – just like a normal road bike. I have 2 acoustic road bikes and a gravel bike, and the Domane is very comparable, except perhaps slightly slower on steep grades. But that’s what the assist is for. At 29 lbs with pedals, it is only 11 lbs heavier than my lightest – a Spec Roubaix Expert.

As for pairing the bike with other devices, not possible. But you can pair the Trek phone app with HR monitors. The app has it’s own navigation tracking and gives all sorts of metrics on instantaneous/average watts provided by both Rider and Motor. The motor tuning itself is fantastic, allowing one to tune all three levels as to the amount of assist provided, the max, and how quickly you want it to react to rider input. In use it is almost telepathic in the nature of power delivery.

Post a Comment

Cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published.

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

• Domane SLR 9 Gen 4

We'll take care of you. Period.

It's our mission to provide you with world-class hospitality every time you visit us online or in-store. We're always here to help you. It's the Trek way.

Free shipping and professional assembly

All bikes ordered online ship for free to your local Trek shop for professional assembly. Participating retailers will even deliver your new ride to your doorstep!

30 Day Unconditional Guarantee

If for any reason you aren't 100% happy with your trekbikes.com purchase, you can return it in like new condition within 30 days - no questions asked.

"Trek’s best road bike gets faster, lighter, quicker, and better"

"When you get on a bike that is fast, quick, and communicative but also floats and coddles the rider like a newborn baby, well, that is a special bike. And that is what the new Domane is: Special. A great bike made better. A bike for the modern road rider: Freaking fast, wonderfully comfortable, and oh so practical."

"The original racer, yet massively versatile"

"The ride is simply sublime. Its balance between smooth, vibration-eliminating comfort, sharp handling, and out-and-out speed combines with an ability to get off the beaten track."

"Smooth operator"

"The level of smoothness on the Domane continues to impress, creating an experience akin to being chauffered around in a luxury sedan. It absorbs all road vibrations, operates quietly, and accelerates on flats deceptively quickly…I'll be in for a rude awakening after returning to a road bike without IsoSpeed."

"Fast on all terrain"

"I took the Domane on my local gravel and some select chunky bits to see how it would fare. The most notable transition from road to gravel was the sense of ease. Usually, when you roll from tarmac to stones, the bike can feel skittish and nervous (rider or bike). The Domane feels stable, and instead of holding your breath, you breathe out."

More options

• New comments
• Military Photos
• Russian Military
• Anti-Aircraft
• SA-21/S-400 Triumf

92N6E Radar, S-400

• Oct 18, 2010

Media information

Share this media.

• This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies. Accept Learn more…