Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap
- Price: $7499
- Category: Endurance Road Bikes
- Frame: Carbon
- Gear: 2×12 Electronic
- Tires: 700x32c
What we like about it: The aggressive Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite tires help you go off-road without a hitch.
What we don’t like about it: The asking price is a bit high relative to the components.
Rating (4.7/5)
Introduction
I believe that every road rider wants a great vehicle that offers comfort, versatility, and speed all in one. If you are currently looking for such a vehicle, then try our protagonist today – Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap.
Entering the 2019 Editors’ Choice Awards with its great versatility and specifications that provide comfort for any endurance ride.
As an ultra-light endurance road bike, it has fast and efficient performance while maintaining the ultimate comfortable riding experience.
For starters, the oclv’s carbon frame maintains a stable body while providing a stylishly large internal storage space. In addition, the new SRAM Rival eTap AXS wireless e-drive system with a power meter for precise gear changes shifts quickly, and the front and rear IsoSpeed absorb fatiguing bumps in the road to keep you riding longer.
We have two months of measurement experience with the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap. To make the results more informative for you, we will elaborate on the performance of the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap while riding, key features, components, specifications, and other versions of the series. If you want to learn more about the other versions of the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap, please refer to our review.
Trek Domane SL 6 Road-Riding
There’s no denying that Trek is uniquely suited to road bikes. As an ultra-light, endurance road bike, the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap will have you excited to jump in the saddle and ride hard for miles.
Yes, that’s what I did. Our test track was a five-kilometer stretch of flat road. Of course, what attracted me most was Trek’s most unique device, the IsoSpeed. Unlike the previously fixed stance, it is adjustable at the rear. All you need is a 4mm hex wrench to tighten the disconnector bolts to the right size, which sets the stage for a comfortable ride.
The up-and-down movement of the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap carbon fork counteracted most of the vibration from the ground for me during this process. Also, the 12x100mm barrel distance improved the forgiveness of the Trek Domane SLR 6. This is reflected in the fact that I was able to maintain absolute stability despite the wet asphalt.
Of course, there is no denying that the 700x32c tires on the Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V had a lot to do with my travels. The slim tires allowed me to maintain excellent steering through the corners, so there was no way for Tom, who was with me, to match my speed. It gave me the confidence to do the last 3km sprint.
Experience
The SRAM Rival eTap AXS, 12-speed is a popular trend in the market. I have high expectations for SRAM, and it does a good job in this area. But personally, the 2x system may not be the high-end of existence.
However, trying to adjust to a satisfactory speed didn’t take me much time at all when I was coasting from a flat road through a gravel section. This changed my stereotypical image of the 2×. At this point, perhaps the performance of the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap’s drivetrain can be expected.
Trek Domane SLR 6 Endurance Race Riding
The best thing about the Trek Domane SLR 6 bike is its versatility. Not only for short commutes, and weekend rides but also for some short fast rides, especially professional enduro races.
The original Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V is stable and sturdy, with a rim width of 25 mm. In addition, the tires are equipped with 32 mm tubeless tires that roll fast while maintaining a stable body. Whether you’re riding on the cobblestone roads of Florence or the flint and gravel of Kansas you’ll be able to get back and forth quickly and agilely.
On the actual ride, the muddy country trail had me most worried about the brakes. After all, no one wants to roll around in the mud. However, the good news is that the Trek Domane SLR 6 hydraulic disc SRAM Paceline performed well as usual and shifted crisply and reliably. It uses flush-mounted Ultegra hydraulic disc brakes, which add to the feel of long technical descents. Also, the integrated internal storage and fender mounts keep you safe when it rains.
Experience
Of course, the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap does not disappoint me when it comes to the details of the operation. In terms of smoothness, in addition to Isospeed bringing a new standard of compliance to the bike, the handlebars are constructed with a setup that is suitable for the general public.
What’s more, Bontrager’s Isocore handlebars are wrapped in oclv’s continuous rubber compound inner layer. In our two consecutive months of real-world testing, we concluded that Isocore is more solid and tougher than the average carbon, capable of absorbing 20% more vibration than the average material. This is certainly good news for those who have high requirements for vibration-damping performance.
Overall, the Trek Domane SLR 6 is a great ride for country trails, city commuting, or off-road.
Main Features
Frame
Unlike the usual aluminum used in cross-country road bikes, the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap is made of 700 series OCLV carbon. It keeps the body agile and light while absorbing bumps from the earth.
One of the most satisfying things for me is that the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap has an absolutely wide range of colors to choose from. Prismatic / Trek Black; Amethyst; Radioactive Coral Yellow Fade and many more are available to satisfy your quest for cool bodywork.
Of course, you can also set up fenders and removable brackets to hold water cups according to your needs and preferences, which can be used to solve the problem of water supply during the journey.
Geometry
Geometrically set up, the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap does not disappoint the majority of users either. First of all, the 73.3° seat tube angle is not an extreme setting. This not only takes into account the need for traction on the ascent, but also the need to maintain a comfortable seating position on the descent in the first place.
Secondly, the low BB center of gravity of 256mm can ensure that you can make flexible steering while the body is stable. At the same time, the wheelbase of 1003mm can keep you in absolute control of the handlebars and tires when driving.
You can feel the demand for the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap from the general public. For example, the 533mm stack is the distance that Trek has found to be more compatible with the human body in many comparisons, so I can easily straddle the body and maintain a comfortable body flex position.
Components and Specifications
SRAM Rival eTap AXS, 12-speed Drivetrain
Wireless shifting with excellent performance in all road conditions and the newly upgraded eTap shifting system give you the capital to go all the way on the road. It also maintains strong traction and stability on piled-up fine gravel roads.
The electronic transfer is the most character and innovative upgrade to the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap. Because the powerful SRAM Rival AXS maintains great forward momentum, you don’t have to worry about tangled cables appearing in front of you, putting a damper on your ascent and descent. Of course, the SRAM Rival also gives it an extremely long life, helping you to maintain great pedaling efficiency during your trip without having to worry about the chain coming off the
Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite Tires
I believe that for those who are obsessed with road cycling, the Bontrager series of tires should have a deep impression because it is synonymous with high performance.
The Bontrager R3 tire is a perfect upgrade from the previous version, and the surface aramid beads have been given a more prominent treatment. As a result, it has strong friction on gravel roads and rarely slips. In addition, the built-in vacuum tire can show high elasticity and wear resistance to the road.
Also, the 700x32c tire is the result of Trek’s many road riding experiences. It can steer nimbly while remaining stable, which was a great surprise during the two months of riding. And you don’t have to worry about annoying maintenance costs, because it has a long service life.
Fork: Domane SLR Carbon
The Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap is also unique in its choice of fork material, Trek is obsessed with carbon, but it is also absolutely right. Compared to the traditional aluminum fork, the Domane SLR carbon fork has a tougher toughness and a smaller size, providing more useful help.
In addition, the tapered carbon steering tube allows for more flexible removal and installation, while the lighter material ensures a stable and reliable overall body mass. The 12x100mm barrel axle also enhances its forgiveness rate. It allows you to maintain a comfortable riding position even when facing slopes.
But it also means higher prices, and there may be a price to pay for the repair and maintenance of the materials. And I think this may also be a small blow to your wallet.
Brake: Paceline
This disc brake disc incorporates the elegant design of our eTap AXS road package with a new brake track vent design for smooth, quiet braking performance.
When I need to stop in a hurry, I can brake by simply pressing the control on the handlebars. In addition, the convenient and simple tubing connection system will make your installation and adjustment process easier and more convenient.
Other versions of Trek Domane
To give you more possibilities in choosing, we tested other models of Trek Domane SLR 6 and conducted some time-riding tests, including the Trek Domane SLR 6 and Domane SL6, to be objective and fair.
Trek Domane SLR 6
First of all, the $4,999 price makes the Trek Domane SLR 6 a definite advantage, which is certainly good news for the price party.
Not only that, but it still targets the Trek Domane SLR 6 in terms of material, choosing the 600 series oclv carbon. Some people may think it is lacking in material, but it is more than enough for novice endurance racing.
Domane SL 6
As the previous generation version of Domane SL 6, it had also been highly regarded and popular among riders with extremely low-cost performance. Also with the 2x drivetrain, it has a relatively wide range of speed adjustments. However, the 600 series carbon body is not as strong as expected in terms of damping. Perhaps Trek also took this into account and switched to the more advanced 700c series in the next upgrade.
Learn more:Is Trek Domane SL 5 Worth Buying? [Trek Domane SL 5 Review]
What we like about it
1.700 series oclv carbon material gives a stronger and more resilient body structure.
2. SRAM drivetrain helps you to cope with all kinds of gravel roads.
3. The slim tire configuration allows you to have more flexible steering.
4. Color diversity to meet your personalized choice.
5. Electronic drive eliminates annoying cable setups.
What we don’t like about it
1, heavier body construction
2, High price relative to the component.
FAQ
1. What is the price of the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap?
The Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap is priced at $7,449
2. What is the body material of the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap?
The Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap body material is oclv carbon.
3. What is the drivetrain of the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap?
The drivetrain of the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap is the SRAM XG-1250, 12-speed
4. What is the tire size of the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap?
The Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap tire size is 700x38c
Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap sizing chart.
| Size | Rider Height | Inseam |
| 47 | 152 – 158 cm 5’0″ – 5’2″ | 71 – 75 cm 28″ – 30″ |
| 50 | 158 – 163 cm 5’2″ – 5’4″ | 74 – 77 cm 29″ – 30″ |
| 52 | 163 – 168 cm 5’4″ – 5’6″ | 76 – 79 cm 30″ – 31″ |
| 54 | 168 – 174 cm 5’6″ – 5’9″ | 78 – 82 cm 31″ – 32″ |
| 56 | 174 – 180 cm 5’9″ – 5’11” | 81 – 85 cm 32″ – 33″ |
| 58 | 180 – 185 cm 5’11” – 6’1″ | 84 – 87 cm 33″ – 34″ |
| 60 | 185 – 190 cm 6’1″ – 6’3″ | 86 – 90 cm 34″ – 35″ |
| 62 | 190 – 195 cm 6’3″ – 6’5″ | 89 – 92 cm 35″ – 36″ |
Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap Specs
Frameset
| Frame | 700 Series OCLV Carbon, front IsoSpeed, adjustable rear IsoSpeed, internal storage, tapered head tube, internal cable routing, 3S chain keeper, DuoTrap S compatible, fender mounts, flat mount disc, 142x12mm thru axle |
|---|---|
| Fork | Domane SLR carbon, tapered carbon steerer, internal brake routing, fender mounts, flat mount disc, carbon dropouts, 12x100mm thru axle |
| Frame fit | Endurance |
Wheels
| Wheel front | Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V, OCLV Carbon, Tubeless Ready, 25mm rim width, 100x12mm thru axle |
|---|---|
| Wheel rear | Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V, OCLV Carbon, Tubeless Ready, 25mm rim width, SRAM XD-R driver, 142x12mm thru axle |
| Skewer front | Bontrager Switch thru axle, removable lever |
| Skewer rear | Bontrager Switch thru axle, removable lever |
| Tire | Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite, Tubeless Ready, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 700x32c |
| Tire part | Bontrager TLR sealant, 6oz |
| Rim strip | Bontrager TLR |
| Max tire size | 38c |
Drivetrain
| Shifter | SRAM Rival eTap AXS, 12 speed |
|---|---|
| Front derailleur | SRAM Rival eTap AXS, braze-on |
| Rear derailleur | SRAM Rival eTap AXS |
| *Crank | Size: 47 SRAM Rival AXS Power Meter, 46/33, DUB spindle, 165mm length Size: 50, 52 SRAM Rival AXS Power Meter, 46/33, DUB spindle, 170mm length Size: 54, 56 SRAM Rival AXS Power Meter, 46/33, DUB spindle, 172.5mm length Size: 58, 60, 62 SRAM Rival AXS Power Meter, 46/33, DUB spindle, 175mm length |
| Bottom bracket | SRAM DUB, T47 threaded, internal bearing |
| Cassette | SRAM XG-1250, 10-36, 12 speed |
| Chain | SRAM Rival, 12 speed |
Components
| *Saddle | Size: 47, 50, 52 Bontrager Verse Elite, austenite rails, 155mm width Size: 54, 56, 58, 60, 62 Bontrager Verse Elite, austenite rails, 145mm width |
|---|---|
| *Seatpost | Size: 47, 50, 52, 54, 56 Bontrager carbon internal seatmast cap, integrated light mount, 20mm offset, short length Size: 58, 60, 62 Bontrager carbon internal seatmast cap, integrated light mount, 20mm offset, tall length |
| *Handlebar | Size: 47 Bontrager Pro IsoCore VR-SF, 38cm Size: 50, 52 Bontrager Pro IsoCore VR-SF, 40cm Size: 54, 56 Bontrager Pro IsoCore VR-SF, 42cm Size: 58, 60, 62 Bontrager Pro IsoCore VR-SF, 44cm |
| Handlebar tape | Bontrager Supertack Perf tape |
| *Stem | Size: 47 Bontrager Pro, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 70mm length Size: 50 Bontrager Pro, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 80mm length Size: 52, 54 Bontrager Pro, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 90mm length Size: 56, 58 Bontrager Pro, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 100mm length Size: 60, 62 Bontrager Pro, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 110mm length |
| Brake rotor | SRAM Paceline, rounded, centerlock, 160mm |
Accessories
| Battery | SRAM eTap battery pack (with charger) |
|---|---|
| Bag | Bontrager BITS Internal Frame Storage Bag |
Weight
| Weight | 56 – 8.85 kg / 19.52 lbs |
|---|---|
| Weight limit | This bike has a maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider, and cargo) of 275 pounds (125 kg). |
Video
Comparison Table
| Bicycles | Price | Tires | Drivetrain | Click view |
| Trek Domane SL 5 | $3299 | 700x38c | Shimano 105 HG601, 11 speed | Click view |
| BMC Roadmachine X ONE | $6699 | 700x33c | SRAM FORCE 12 Speed | Click view |
| Ribble Endurance SL R – Pro, Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 | $5599 | 700x25c | Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 R9150 11-Speed. | Click view |
| Cervelo Caledonia-5 Rival eTap AXS | $6000 | 700x30c | SRAM Rival, 12 spd | Click view |
Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap vs Trek Domane SL 5
Like the previous generation version of the Trek series, the Trek Domane SL 5 has a friendlier price tag, and it can be used as an entry vehicle for novice enduro racers.
Although, it does weigh a bit compared to the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap (8.7kg for the Trek Domane SLR6 and 9.3kg for the Trek Domane SL 5). But this will not affect your ride too much.
This may also be because the Trek Domane SL 5 is made of aluminum in the choice of tires. Although there is a slight price discount, there is a relatively large gap in terms of damping and the lightness of the body. This is a factor that has to be considered.
Not surprisingly, in terms of body material is also the choice of lower 500 series of oclv carbon material, so it is difficult to say that it has a relatively large highlight in the ride body comparison.
This brings us to the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap’s excellent oclv carbon frame. Combined with the ultra-high-end components, it not only has a greater appeal in terms of weight but also more responsive braking.
In addition, the electronic drive system of Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap 2×12 has a more flexible operation, and the wireless design avoids the problems caused by too many control cables.
If you’re looking for a higher level of riding experience and a smoother, more technical shifting experience, then the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap is still the right choice for you.
Learn more: Trek Domane SL 5 Review – Are Performance Road Bikes Worth Buying?
Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap vs BMC Roadmachine X, ONE
If you’re a fan of the world of endurance cycling, there’s no way you haven’t heard of the BMC Roadmachine X, ONE, a tough road machine that’s loved by competitors for its tough looks and comfortable ride.
The BMC Roadmachine X, ONE is an obsessive fan of carbon. This is reflected in the use of carbon in the fork, tires, and frame. It is clear that BMC Roadmachine X, ONE has never skimped on the use of carbon.
Not only that, but it has opted for the popular 1x shift structure in the drivetrain, which also means that you can get a satisfying speed without too much operation of speed regulation.
However, in terms of drivetrain, I prefer the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap because not only does it have a wider range of speed options (2×12), but some may find the 2× shifting to be relatively cumbersome. But because it is electronic, it is highly responsive and smooth in terms of shifting.
Not only that, but the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap equipped with 700x32c Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite also has unmatched rolling efficiency. There is also a 20tpi design on the puncture protection, which can better adapt to various surfaces in actual riding.
If you want a bike that stands out both in terms of brand and performance, this Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap qualifies as your next bike of choice.
learn more：Is BMC Roadmachine X Two Worth Buying? [BMC Roadmachine X Two Review]
Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap vs Ribble Endurance SL R – Pro, Shimano Dura-Ace Di2
I have to admit that on past rides, I was always drawn to the cables around the bodywork. Because disordered cables make me feel like the bike will give me a messy feeling.
But the good news is that the Ribble Endurance SL R – Pro, Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 has taken note of this and opted for an electronic drive. You can command bodywork more responsively, quickly, and quickly.
For that matter, this Ribble Endurance SL R – Pro, Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 does a good job, but I think the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap would be better.
It can be noted that the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap also uses an electronic drive in its transmission and has a wide range of speed options.
In real-world riding, I get a better feel when shifting on the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap. I think the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap would be a good choice if you want more speed options along with faster shifting.
Not only that, but the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap uses a relatively wider 32c tire, which makes it more stable than the Ribble Endurance SL R-Pro, Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 (25c tire width).
If you’re more focused on the thrill of the gravel roads or want smoother and faster shifts, this Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap is worth a look.
Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap vs Cervelo Caledonia-5 Rival eTap AXS
In our actual comparison test, the Cervelo Caledonia-5 Rival eTap AXS had an absolute advantage in terms of speed (67km/h). This is a presence that is difficult to match in other bikes and may be good news for those who seek speed.
Not only that, but the Cervelo Caledonia-5 Rival eTap AXS also has its ideas when it comes to body stabilization settings. Perhaps many people think that the 30c tires are too slim to maintain the center of gravity during the ride. I would say that such a worry is superfluous.
Of course, the tires on the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap 32c aren’t much wider though. But for some riders who prefer more stable handling, the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap will undoubtedly be a relatively better choice.
In addition, the Cervelo Caledonia-5 Rival eTap AXS has a longer wheelbase and front center length for a more even weight distribution in terms of geometry, allowing for a relatively stable seating position while maintaining agile steering.
However, the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap’s relatively steeper seat tube angle (74.2°) makes it easier to maintain a more aerodynamic position for acceleration. Also, the relatively low trail (59mm) has more agile steering.
If you’re more focused on speed and more agile steering, the Trek Domane SLR 6 eTap may be an experience you can’t miss.
In case, the above comments are helpful to you, please remember to share the subscription. Have a great day!
learn more: Is Cervelo Caledonia 105 Worth Buying? [Cervelo Caledonia 105 Review]
