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Almost 1,000 grams lighter
With the new Domane Carbon, Trek is reimagining its endurance road bike. The fifth generation features a sleeker frame shape and a classic road bike silhouette, whilst offering a wide range of uses. The result is said to be a versatile road bike that is equally at home on long tours, fast training rides and outings on well-maintained gravel tracks.
According to Trek, the new SLR frameset is 305 grams lighter than the previous generation. This is made possible by a streamlined frame design and the use of OCLV carbon. The weight saving is said to be particularly noticeable on the Domane SLR 9 AXS 1x Gen 5. According to the manufacturer, this model is just under 1,000 grams lighter than the lightest model from the previous generation.
Comfort without IsoSpeed
One of the most significant changes relates to comfort technology. Trek has dispensed with IsoSpeed on the new Domane (decoupling the seat tube and top tube via a bearing). Instead, a combination of carbon construction, high-volume tyres and a newly developed seatpost is designed to ensure a smooth ride.
The seatpost is designed to move vertically and absorb vibrations from the road surface. According to Trek, the vibration performance of the new model, when fitted with the recommended tyres, remains within five per cent of that of the previous generation. For riders, this means that comfort should be maintained over long distances without the bike losing any of its responsiveness.
In addition, a new riser handlebar provides 20 millimetres more height. This results in a more upright riding position, whilst keeping the front end looking tidy. The well-known road endurance geometry is designed to provide stable handling at higher speeds and a relaxed riding position.
Up to 40 millimetres of tyre clearance
The new Domane Carbon is no longer designed exclusively for the road. The frame can accommodate tyres up to 40 millimetres wide. This significantly improves comfort, grip and safety on poor-quality roads. It also makes light gravel sections a realistic option.
Integrated attachment points also allow for the fitting of mudguards and various bags. A top-tube bag, frame bag or triangle bag can help prepare the bike for long day trips, changeable weather or multi-day rides.
Ten models to suit different needs
The new carbon range begins with the SL series, which marks the entry point into the carbon endurance class. The SLR models are aimed at riders with higher expectations regarding weight, spec and customisation. Through Project One, riders can customise components, paint finishes, handlebar width and crankset length, amongst other things. The special Project One ICON No. 76 paint finish is limited to 124 bikes worldwide.
List of models with German prices in euros as per the current price list:
- Domane SL 4: not specified
- Domane SL 5: 2,499 euros
- Domane SL 6 AXS: 3,999 euros
- Domane SL 7 AXS 1x: 4,999 euros
- Domane SLR 7: 6,999 euros
- Domane SLR 7 AXS: 7,499 euros
- Domane SLR 9: 9,999 euros
- Domane SLR 9 AXS: 10,499 euros
- Domane SLR 9 AXS 1x: 10,499 euros
- Domane SLR 9 AXS No. 76 ICON: 12,999 euros
With the new Domane Carbon, Trek is launching a versatile road bike that combines classic styling with modern long-distance performance. Its lighter weight, wider tyres and a comfort-oriented riding position make this bike an attractive option for riders who don’t want to have to choose between tarmac, rough roads and light gravel.
Matthias Borchers
Editor
