2016 Trek Domane 4.5 Review
- Price: $2500 (used site)
- Category: Road Bikes
- Frame: OCLV carbon
- Gear: 2×11
- Tire: 700×25c
What we like about it: The 400 series OCLV carbon frame, hidden fender mounts, and 2×11 speed drivetrain for your long road rides.
What we don’t like about it: Hard to find sources and limited quantities.
Rating (4.7/5.0)
Introduction
Is the once great “General” still as good as it was today? I think the 2016 Trek Domane 4.5 was very hard to get at the time, and even if you got it, you had to wait a long time to get it. However, now with the constant updates of Trek, it is no longer in production. However, it is a very classic road bike. Both performance and comfort are no problem today.
Next, I break down the 2016 Trek Domane 4.5’s uphill and downhill performance, key features, and components and specs for a breakdown, as well as how it compares. If you’re interested, stay tuned!
Trek Domane 4.5 Road-Uphill Review
Classics never go out of style. This 2016 Trek Domane 4.5 is still hot on used sites, even though it’s discontinued. That’s thanks to its durable configuration and design.
I found this 2016 Trek Domane 4.5 in my friend’s garage, so I decided to review this 2016 Trek Domane 4.5.
Coincidentally, I moved back home to rural Ohio some time ago, where the population is sparse and there are only large expanses of forest and rolling hills. I wanted to take the 2016 Trek Domane 4.5 to enjoy my hometown. And so, I began a ride of over two months.
I re-wiped this bike down and adjusted the slightly loose screws and seat post. The road in front of me would lead to a nearby nature park, and the first half of the road was a very smooth tarmac with only a few minor undulations.
I started in this 2016 Trek Domane 4.5 wondering if it would go on strike in the middle of the ride. However, it turned out that I was overly concerned.
Experience
The first thing is that the comfortable saddle and grip of the Trek Domane 4.5 made me feel relaxed as soon as it made contact with me. It was like I was holding a sponge, but with more support than a sponge.
Secondly, ISOspeed’s carbon frame and fork allow me to go uphill without too much strain, reducing the stress that the terrain puts on me. I can enjoy the upward climb with more focus.
Not only that, but the gentle geometry gave me more energy on the uphill. I didn’t feel any pressure on my spine from long rides.
In addition, it has a slack 71.9° head tube angle with a 73.3° seat tube angle. I think this is the main reason why I can always be able to maintain a comfortable position while riding.
Once again, the Bontrager R2 Hard-Case Lite’s tires provided me with reliable support. The tread pattern on it fits tightly to the ground as it rolls, firming it up and smoothing it forward at the same time. I was especially surprised by its grip when I encountered some of the steeper uphill grades, which had the feel of an old but still sharp knife.
I can say very directly that it will outperform some of the newer bikes like this.
Trek Domane 4.5 Downhill Review
If the uphill performance of the 2016 Trek Domane 4.5 is a 90 in my mind, the downhill performance will be slightly lower, but that’s only five points lower! But I think that’s a pretty good score for a bike that’s a few years old.
I still didn’t feel a lot of strain on my lower back on some of the drop-off descents. Yes, I dived slightly and the Trek Domane 4.5’s ISOspeed frame allowed me to gain acceleration more easily in the process.
And, I have to say that it is configured with a Shimano Ultegra 2×11 speed gear range which was exactly what I was expecting. The rich and dense gear ratios coupled with the stable crankset made my speed soar and the whole descent was very smooth and unobstructed. The big trees lined up on both sides were left as blurred shadows in my perspective, while the roadside grass could be vaguely seen swaying in the wind.
Its v-brake also kept up with me when I hit some of the more curvy turns, and I didn’t have to work too hard to hold the brake lever down and squeeze the corner with ease. However, the Trek Domane 4.5 may not have as quick a time to recover and is slightly less responsive than the hydraulic disc brakes. But in the uncrowded countryside, this had little effect on my riding.
Overall, it does have some limitations in terms of braking. But if it is on a wider route, there is no problem. So I would recommend not going to some muddy land to ride the 2016 Trek Domane 4.5, it is not suitable.
Main Features
Frame Group
First of all, its exquisite paintwork is on full display on this bike. The bike comes in very classic and understated colors, Matte Trek Black, Dnister Black, and Viper Red.
Secondly, carbon is already prevalent within the road bike segment. However, brands will still strive for excellence and keep looking for breakthroughs. Trek can be called a connoisseur in this area.
On the frame, the 2016 Trek Domane 4.5 features the exclusive IsoSpeed. as a result, it not only has the power transfer of a traditional carbon frame, but it is also smoother than a traditional carbon frame.
It maintains a diamond-shaped frame geometry that allows the seat tube to flex. This setup helps the rider in achieving an aerodynamically efficient position and reduces fatigue.
And, as it turns out, the Trek Domane 4.5 is not exaggerated. There are many past Spring Classic winners equipped with this frame.
Geometry
The geometry of the 2016 Trek Domane 4.5 isn’t perfect, but it has the standards that an endurance road bike should have.
First, the 73.3° seat tube angle is not very steep; it allows the rider to bend gently to gain more efficient speed and stay smooth.
Secondly, the Trek Domane 4.5 has a 71.9° headtube angle. It gives a looser feel, but I think it’s just right. Because it doesn’t affect our flexibility when steering even when we keep driving at high speed.
On top of that, its 42cm rear lower fork length is relatively short. This also means that the rider will be riding closer to the rear tire of the bike, which helps to improve the rider’s speed up hills.
Components and Specifications
Shimano Ultegra Drivetrain
The Shimano Ultegra drivetrain gives us a range of 2 x 11 speeds. This is more than enough play for a road bike.
Moreover, the Trek Domane 4.5 features a lightweight crank, hollow outer sprocket, and wider tooth spacing, which increases frame clearance. The lightened crank design optimizes the bike’s power transfer efficiency.
Not only that, but the 11-32T cassette will also be more advantageous when climbing, and the larger gears will make our pedaling relatively easier.
In addition, the front derailleur of Trek Domane 4.5 also offers a lighter shifting operation than before, mainly because of its new linkage structure. So, we don’t need to worry about not getting the exact speed we want when operating.
Shimano 105 Braking System
The bike is equipped with dual lever v-brakes that are not only affordable but also reliable.
The Trek Domane 4.5 has an integrated shift cable that is both lightweight and strong, yet very smooth and easy to use. Yes, you only need to hook your finger to brake. It’s rider friendly and easy to maintain daily.
In addition, the optical gel electric coating on its surface can protect the cable from corrosion. And the durability of the cable will be improved.
Bontrager R2 Hard-Case Lite Tires
The wheelset of the 2016 Trek Domane 4.5 features Bontrager R2 Hard-Case Lite tires on Bontrager Race rims.
First, the Bontrager R2 Hard-Case Lite tire is a road tire with Hard-Case Lite puncture protection for durability. Its lightweight tread casing increases the tire’s traction.
Therefore, even if we encounter a sharp turn, this set of tires will have excellent grip so that we can finish the turn smoothly.
Secondly, Bontrager Race rims are strong and fast, not only well-designed but also very light in terms of weight.
In addition, it is easy to disassemble. That is to say, we do not consume much energy either to maintain it or to replace it.
Other versions of Trek Domane 4.5
In the above article, we have learned that this bike uses mechanical brakes, while its other version is set up with a hydraulic disc brake system. They don’t bring the same riding experience. If you are interested, you can check out the 2016 Trek Domane 4.5 Disc Compact.
2016 Trek Domane 4.5 Disc Compact
In my opinion, the Trek Domane 4.5 with Shimano RS685 hydraulic discs is indeed slightly better in terms of braking.
And, it was also replaced with a disc-type balanced joint. It can make our handling smoother and make its braking smoother.
In addition, even in hot weather, its good heat dissipation performance can keep the bike running properly.
There is one thing to say, the hydraulic version of the 2016 Trek Domane 4.5 is a good choice if you have enough budget.
However, if you think you want a lighter road bike, then the 2016 Trek Domane 4.5 is the ideal choice for you.
What we like about it
- 400 Series OCLV carbon provides an ultra-lightweight frame
- IsoSpeed technology helps us reduce fatigue on the ride
- Concealed fender brackets prevent tires from being attacked by heavy mud
- Shimano Ultegra’s drivetrain is smooth and quiet enough
- Bontrager R2 Hard-Case Lite tires have great grip
What we don’t like about it
- Not strong enough braking system
- Fewer colors
FAQs
1. What is the frame material of the 2016 Trek Domane 4.5?
The 2016 Trek Domane 4.5’s frame material is carbon
2. What is the drivetrain of the 2016 Trek Domane 4.5?
The drivetrain of the 2016 Trek Domane 4.5 is Shimano Ultegra
3. What sizes are available for the 2016 Trek Domane 4.5?
| Size | 47cm | 50cm | 52cm | 54cm | 56cm | 58cm | 60cm | 62cm | 64cm |
| Rider height | 5’0″ – 5’3″ | 5’2″ – 5’5″ | 5’4″ – 5’7″ | 5’6″ – 5’9″ | 5’8″ – 5’11” | 5’10” – 6’1″ | 6’0″ – 6’3″ | 6’2″ – 6’5″ | 6’4″ – 6’7″ |
2016 Trek Domane 4.5 Specs
Build
| Frame | 400 Series OCLV Carbon, IsoSpeed, Power Transfer Construction, hidden fender mounts, E2 tapered head tube, BB90, DuoTrap compatible, 3S chain keeper BB Standard: BB90, 90.5mm, Press Fit |
| Fork | Trek IsoSpeed carbon, E2 steerer |
| Bottom Bracket | BB90, 90.5mm, press-fit |
| Headset | FSA Integrated, sealed cartridge bearings, 1-1/8″ top, 1.5″ bottom |
| Stem | Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, 7°, w/Blendr computer & light mounts |
| Handlebar | Bontrager Race Lite IsoZone, VR-CF, 31.8mm |
| Saddle | Bontrager Paradigm R, hollow chromoly rails |
| Seatpost | Bontrager carbon, 2-bolt head, 27.2mm, 8mm offset |
Groupset
| Rear Derailleur | Shimano Ultegra |
| Front Derailleur | Shimano Ultegra, braze-on |
| Crank | Shimano RS500, 50/34 (compact) |
| Shifters | Shimano Ultegra, 11 speed |
| Cassette | Shimano 105, 11-32, 11 speed |
| Brakes | Shimano 105 |
Wheels
| Rims | Bontrager Race Tubeless Ready |
| Tires | Bontrager R2 Hard-Case Lite, aramid bead, 700x25c |
Video
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Price | Drivetrain | Brakes | Tires | Click view |
| Cannondale Synapse Carbon 4 | $2,600 | 2×10 speed | Shimano Tiagra hydraulic disc | 700x30c | Click view |
| 2022 Canyon Endurace WMN CF SL Disc 7.0 | $2,599 | 2×11 speed | Shimano 105 hydraulic disc | 700×28c | Click view |
| 2023 Specialized Roubaix Sport | $3,500 | 2×11 speed | Shimano 105 Hydraulic Disc | 700x28c | Click view |
| Specialized Women’s Diverge Sport | $2,800 | 2×11 speed | Shimano 105 R7070 hydraulic disc | 700x38c | Click view |
2016 Trek Domane 4.5 vs 2022 Cannondale Synapse Carbon 4
The 2022 Cannondale Synapse Carbon 4 is made of Synapse carbon, and it has a SynapseSense rear triangle. Hidden flex fields in the seat tube and seat post help absorb shock, while the proportionally responsive design allows the rider to get the most out of the riding position.
Compared with Trek Domane 4.5, its framework has its characteristics.
However, in terms of drivetrain, it goes for the Shimano Tiagra series, which offers 2 x 10-speed shifting. It is significantly weaker than the Trek Domane 4.5’s Shimano Ultegra drivetrain, both in terms of top speed and handling.
Obviously, at the same price point, Trek Domane 4.5 is much more cost-effective.
2016 Trek Domane 4.5 vs 2022 Canyon Endurace WMN CF SL Disc 7.0
The Canyon Endurace WMN CF SL Disc 7.0 is a women’s road bike that comes in beautiful aquamarine colors.
At the same time, it has a saddle designed for women riders. This saddle has a decompression cutout to provide maximum comfort for female riders.
However, compared to the Trek Domane 4.5, it has a slightly more moderate set configuration performance. If you are a female rider who wants to try long-distance road riding, such a configuration is perfectly adequate and you can consider this bike.
2016 Trek Domane 4.5 vs 2019 Specialized Roubaix Sport
This 2019 Specialized Roubaix Sport frame is made of Fact 9r carbon. And its Future Shock provides a smooth feel to the rider by moving up and down like a telescopic mountain bike fork. In addition, the 11-34 cassette offers a wide range. And its geometry is designed to meet the rider’s requirements for an endurance bike.
But after our comparison, we don’t see much difference between them. But Trek Domane 4.5 is a bit cheaper.
2016 Trek Domane 4.5 vs 2019 Specialized Women’s Diverge Sport
The 2019 Specialized Women’s Diverge Sport is a women’s road bike.
In terms of components, it uses a Shimano 105 drivetrain and Shimano 105 R7070 flush-mount disc brakes.
And its tires utilize the 700 x 38cc Sawtooth Sport, which provides excellent grip for the rider. These are not much different from the Trek Domane 4.5.
However, it has a saddle built specifically for women and is ergonomically designed for women.
I think that everyone should choose the bike that is more helpful for their riding, and everyone is different.In case, the above comments are helpful to you, please remember to share the subscription. Have a great day!
