TREK DOMANE SL 5
- Price: $3,299.99
- Frame: OCLV carbon fiber frame
- Gear: 2×11
- Tires: 700c×32c
What we love about it: A versatile OCLV carbon fiber road bike designed for long distances that remains stamina for all-day adventures.
What we don’t like about it: Some people think its tires look slick and might not be good for climbing.
Rating (4.7/5)
Every component of the Trek Domane SL 5 is fully reinforced for a smooth ride and responsive speed. The overall streamlined geometric design of the Domane SL 5 really surprised us at first.
In terms of color, there are not only the restrained and low-key Satin Trek Black, the gradient Deep Dark Blue Fade, and the gentle Quicksilver. Color alone gives us more options. Not only that, the Trek Domane SL 5 2×11 has a wide range of speed options, which allows you to experience the joy of shifting. In addition, Trek Domane SL 5 uses OCLV carbon fiber material, which reduces the overall weight a lot and indirectly improves the speed.
We have a full review of the Domane SL 5 through our two months of riding. Below is our take on the Trek Domane SL 5 for endurance and natural riding, key features, components and specs, and other editions of the range. If you want to know more, you can check out our review.
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Endurance-Road Ride
The Trek Domane SL 5 is on the road. In our review of the Trek Domane SL 5, our first stop was an unknown road. From the pavement of this road, we can see that very few people pass by. If it wasn’t for the evaluation, we probably wouldn’t have the opportunity to come here. There are not too many stones on the road and most of them are loose particles.
Honestly, if I hadn’t been wearing non-slip shoes, I’d probably have been embarrassed. When I started pedaling the Trek Domane SL 5, due to the smoother road and the tighter head angle, I couldn’t get my bearings for a while. But stability is maintained by the force of the pedals to push the wheels forward.
Of course, we couldn’t have just rode such a short distance, we did long endurance rides. We rode non-stop for over 2 hours and about 80+ miles. After such a long endurance ride, I really didn’t feel tired, but had time to feel the operation of the various components of the Trek Domane SL 5.
Also, because of the Domane SL 5’s two water bottle mounting holes, this gave us plenty of water for the second half of our long endurance rides.
During the second half of the drive, we switched directions and drove onto a smooth stretch of road. Unexpectedly, we were riding faster, which has a lot to do with its slender tires and drivetrain.
Not only that, the Domane SL 5’s Drop Bars can position your body by placing your hands there. I did that too and it really made my ride more comfortable.
Natural Riding
While road bikes are good at riding flat roads, I have higher expectations for the Trek Domane SL 5.
Therefore, we came to this natural road section of the town. It is hard to imagine that there is such a road here. The road that is not fully built is full of potholes and there are many irregular stones.
Even though the road conditions made me frown, I did a ride review. Sure enough, the Trek Domane SL 5 did not disappoint me, the Domane Sl 5 jumped easily over bumpy terrain, and the jumping process made me feel no discomfort. What surprised me, even more, was that I didn’t have time to react when I encountered a tight turn. When I pressed the brake, the Trek Domane SL 5’s braking gave me a smooth braking feeling, and only felt a very low inertia force.
Not only that, but the SL 5’s tires didn’t flinch when faced with irregular stones, leaving them far behind the car when going fast. That’s because the Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite TLR road tire uses a proprietary TR-Speed compound and improves Hard-Case Lite for puncture protection.
The Domane SL 5 turned out to pass our ride review and it will be my road bike.
If most of the roads in your area are like this, I suggest you check out our review and experience what the Trek Domane SL 5 has to offer.
Main Feature
Frame
Colour
Trek Domane SL 5 has three paint colors, and each color has its own character and sense of technology, which can take into account the preferences of more people. In addition to this, we also paid attention to the placement of the high-performance cables of the Domane SL 5. After years of racing experience, Trek has optimized the cable routing system to virtually eliminate friction for crisp shifting in any condition.
Detail
In addition, the Domane SL 5 also provides two water bottle mounting holes, which allows us to be well prepared for the water when we are doing enduro races. Not only that, the Trek Domane 5 has a frame-integrated storage compartment. This gives me a versatile place to store tools and gear, the only thing that doesn’t feel so convenient is having to use Trek’s Bontrager BITS inner frame storage bag.
Material
As we all know, Trek’s OCLV carbon fiber material is a high-tech material that is not only lightweight but also strong.
So when I noticed that the Domane SL 5 uses OCLV carbon fiber for the frame, I was delighted. This makes the Trek Domane SL 5 a lot lighter overall (only 20.29 lbs) and makes my ride more comfortable.
In fact, the Trek Domane SL 5 does a great job, it would be even better if it could fit a luggage rack.
Geometry
Road bike geometries are all about the same, and the Trek Domane SL 5’s streamlined geometry has a near-perfect design.
Thanks to the Trek Domane 5’s steep seat tube angle, this allowed me to pedal easier while riding for faster and longer rides. And it also puts the rider’s center of gravity forward, which makes it harder to lift the front wheel, which is good for climbing. Not only that, but the steeper head tube angle (71.6°) makes the bike’s steering response quicker.
In the meantime, let’s take a look at the Chainstay length (42cm). The short Chainstay length, some feel this makes the Trek Domane more prone to falls when climbing. But I think the shorter Chainstay length of the Trek Domane SL 5 would be more agile in terms of handling.
In addition, the frame stack height of the Trek Domane SL 5 affects the rider to choose the appropriate size, the maximum is 65.6cm, and the minimum is 51cm. The wide selection of sizes allows not only tall riders to choose the Trek Domane 5 for them, but also petite female riders, allowing everyone to choose the best size bike for them.
However, the effective top tube length of the Trek Domane SL 5 is relatively short, which may make it difficult for riders with longer arms to stretch their arms, and may encounter some obstacles on long rides. So I suggest that you must carefully determine the size of the bike that suits you when choosing.
Components and Specifications
Shimano 105 R7000 2×11 Drivetrain
One of the things that surprised me about the Trek Domane SL 5 during our speed review was the Trek Domane SL 5’s Shimano 105 2×11 drivetrain. First of all, it has more speed options, which allows the rider to choose the appropriate speed in the face of different situations, and only needs a simple finger derailleur to achieve gear shifting.
Not only that, the SHIMANO 105 R7000 series will enable more riders to fall in love with road cycling, it can accompany beginners in training and competition.
In addition, we have to mention the Domane SL 5’s front IsoSpeed, which allows our riders to reduce the fatigue effects of long rides in endurance riding, reduce physical exertion, and keep the rider fresh for longer. I think SHIMANO 105 R7000 is not only the power system of the bicycle, but also a good friend who accompanies me to experience cycling.
Shimano SM-RT70 Brakes
I just happened to have rain while reviewing the Trek Domane SL 5. To get a solid review, I rode the Trek Domane SL 5 on slick city roads in the rain. The sidewalks are crowded and I’m still smiling despite the rain on my Trek Domane SL 5. When I was in a situation that required a quick stop, I pressed the brakes and the Trek Domane SL 5 came to a stop like a good soldier, really reliable. Trek Domane SL 5’s perfect braking experience thanks to its Flat Mount disc brakes.
Obviously, Flat Mount disc brakes brake more elegantly than traditional disc brakes, and are also lighter and smaller. Provides excellent performance and stopping power even in harsh environments.
In fact, through this braking experience, I trust SL 5 even more. If you want a road bike and your neighborhood requires a road bike with excellent braking, try the Trek Domane SL 5.
Tire
Some people say that “tires are like human feet”. A bicycle is driven by nothing but wheels. The Domane SL 5 uses Bontrager TLR 700x32c road-specific tires. The TLR is a lightweight road tire featuring a proprietary TR-Speed compound, in addition to improved Hard-Case Lite puncture protection.
It’s no exaggeration to say that the Bontrager TLR’s puncture protection and lightweight tread provide traction and confidence in any corner.
However, some people believe that the 32c size tires will suffer from a loss of climbing ability. However, I have to say my climbing feeling. Compared with professional mountain bikes, Domane SL 5 really cannot beat professional mountain bikes in terms of climbing ability. However, thanks to the Bontrager TLR tubeless tires, it’s light, and when you’re on a climb, it’s lighter for indirect acceleration. Not to mention the Bontrager TLR’s grip and traction are equally good.
In addition, the Trek Domane SL 5 is designed with extra tire clearance, which not only allows the installation of fenders, but also allows the Domane SL 5 to explore places where there is no road.
Other versions of Trek Domane SL
The Trek Domane SL series has always been one of Trek’s most popular products. If you’re interested in the Trek Domane SL 5, I think the SL 7 might catch your attention as well. The Domane SL 5 has an OCLV carbon fiber body and dedicated TLR tires. Whether it is the transmission system or the brakes, it is the best at this price.
The SL 7 is nearly half the price of the Domane SL 5 at $6,629.99, but it weighs less. At the same time, Domane SL 7 has this 2×12 speed range, which is wider than Domane SL 5. But I’m a little surprised that the Trek Domane SL 7 doesn’t have a dropper design at this price point. But other than that I have no idea about it because the price of the Trek Domane SL 7 puts me off.
What do we like about it?
- Long endurance rides and still keep a smile.
- The 32c tires still have excellent grip and traction on the climbs.
- Shimano SM-RT70 brakes maintain excellent stopping power even on slippery surfaces.
- There is clearance for installing fenders, allowing you to experience off-highway terrain more freely.
What do we not like about it?
- In terms of climbing speed, it can’t compare with professional mountain bikes.
- Some people think that without the dropper design, the shock absorption will be weakened (I think the carbon fiber material has a good shock absorption effect).
Trek Domane SL 5 Specs
Frameset
| Frame | 500 Series OCLV Carbon, front & 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 | Size: 44, 47 Domane SLR carbon, tapered carbon steerer, internal brake routing, fender mounts, flat mount disc, carbon dropouts, 12x100mm thru axle Size: 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62 Domane SL carbon, tapered carbon steerer, internal brake routing, fender mounts, flat mount disc, 12x100mm thru axle |
| Frame fit | Endurance |
Wheels
| Hub front | Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, centerlock disc, 100x12mm thru axle |
|---|---|
| Skewer front | Bontrager Switch thru axle, removable lever |
| Hub rear | Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, centerlock disc, Shimano 11-speed freehub, 142x12mm thru axle |
| Skewer rear | Bontrager Switch thru axle, removable lever |
| Rim | Bontrager Affinity Disc, Tubeless Ready, 24-hole, 21mm width, presta valve |
| Spokes | 14g stainless steel |
| Tire | Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite, wire bead, 60 tpi, 700x32c |
| Max tire size | 38c |
Drivetrain
| *Shifter | Size: 44, 47, 50, 52 Shimano 105 R7025, short-reach lever, 11 speed Size: 54, 56, 58, 60, 62 Shimano 105 R7020, 11 speed |
|---|---|
| Front derailleur | Shimano 105 R7000, braze-on |
| Rear derailleur | Shimano 105 R7000, long cage, 34T max cog |
| *Crank | Size: 44, 47 Shimano 105 R7000, 50/34 (compact), 165mm length Size: 47, 50, 52 Shimano 105 R7000, 50/34 (compact), 170mm length Size: 54, 56 Shimano 105 R7000, 50/34 (compact), 172.5mm length Size: 58, 60, 62 Shimano 105 R7000, 50/34 (compact), 175mm length |
| Bottom bracket | Praxis, T47 threaded, internal bearing |
| Cassette | Shimano 105 HG700-11, 11-34, 11 speed |
| Chain | Shimano 105 HG601, 11 speed |
Components
| Saddle | Bontrager Arvada Comp, steel rails, 138mm width |
|---|---|
| *Seatpost | Size: 44, 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: 44, 47 Bontrager Comp VR-S, alloy, 31.8mm, 81mm reach, 118mm drop, 36cm width Size: 50 Bontrager Comp VR-S, alloy, 31.8mm, 81mm reach, 118mm drop, 38cm width Size: 52 Bontrager Comp VR-S, alloy, 31.8mm, 81mm reach, 118mm drop, 40cm width Size: 54, 56 Bontrager Comp VR-C, alloy, 31.8mm, 100mm reach, 124mm drop, 42cm width Size: 58, 60, 62 Bontrager Comp VR-C, alloy, 31.8mm, 100mm reach, 124mm drop, 44cm width |
| Handlebar tape | Bontrager Supertack Perf tape |
| *Stem | Size: 44 Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 60mm length Size: 47 Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 70mm length Size: 50 Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 80mm length Size: 52, 54 Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 90mm length Size: 56, 58 Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 100mm length Size: 60, 62 Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 110mm length |
| Brake | Shimano 105 hydraulic disc, flat mount |
| Brake rotor | Shimano SM-RT70, centerlock, 160mm |
Accessories
| Bag | Bontrager BITS Internal Frame Storage Bag |
|---|
Weight
| Weight | 56 – 9.89 kg / 21.80 lbs |
|---|---|
| Weight limit | This bike has a maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider, and cargo) of 275 pounds (125 kg). |
Comparison Chart
| BIKE | PRICE | GEAR | BRAKE | TIRE | CLICK VIEW |
| CANNONDALE SYNAPSE 105 | $1,999.99 | 2×11 | TRP Spyre-C Cable Drive Reel | 700 x 30c | CLICK VIEW |
| Schwinn Fastback Carbon 105 | $2,299.99 | 2×11 | Shimano 105 BR-7000 caliper brakes | 700c x 25c | CLICK VIEW |
| Cervelo Caledonia 105 | $3200 | 2×11 | Shimano 105 7020 Hydraulic Disc | 700×30c | CLICK VIEW |
| Cannondale Synapse 105 | $2000 | 2×11 | TRP Spyre-C Cable Drive Reel | 700 x 30c | CLICK VIEW |
CANNONDALE SYNAPSE 105 vs Trek Domane SL 5
The CANNONDALE SYNAPSE 105 is a SmartForm C2 alloy road bike. In terms of overall body weight, it is relatively heavier, and the 22 shifts give it a wider range of speed options.
In fact, I think CANNONDALE SYNAPSE 105 can do better. The CANNONDALE SYNAPSE 105 TRP Spyre-C cable drive disc is not bad at braking, but I think it takes a lot of effort when I start the brakes. And I feel it vibrates noticeably on rough and bumpy trails, and I hope it goes a step further.
This has to look at the Domane SL 5. Not only is its braking more responsive, but I don’t think it makes me use a lot of force. And in the same speed range, because the Domane SL 5 is made of OCLV carbon fiber, which not only reduces its weight, but also makes our acceleration easier. So I personally prefer the light and brake sensitive Trek Domane SL 5.
Schwinn Fastback Carbon 105 vs Trek Domane SL 5
I also rode a Schwinn Fastback Carbon 105 before I started riding my Trek Domane SL 5. Its steep seat tube angle and head tube angle prevented me from maintaining an upright comfortable ride while riding, but the forward riding position provided a sporty, aerodynamic position that allowed me to go faster.
Also, it uses an N LITENED Black Label carbon fiber frame, which makes it relatively light in weight, which is nice. But I have to talk about an experience of mine. On a city road ride after the rain because I was going very fast, but unfortunately I ran into a situation that required an emergency stop. The Schwinn Fastback Carbon 105’s Shimano 105 BR-7000 caliper brakes didn’t hold up firmly, allowing me to coast forward for quite a while and almost hit it. This led me to put the Schwinn Fastback Carbon 105 in my garage.
After this, when we reviewed the Trek Domane SL 5, I liked the Domane SL 5’s consistent braking performance in all conditions. Not only that, but the paint on the Domane SL 5 is something I admire a lot, even more than when I ditched it on gravel roads and it didn’t let me down.
If you love riding in all kinds of weather as much as I do, check out our review.
Cervelo Caledonia 105 vs Trek Domane SL 5
The easiest way to look at a bike’s rating is to look at the price. But sometimes the bike you want to buy may not differ much in price. The price difference between the Trek Domane SL 5 and the Cervélo Caledonia 105 is similar.
Even so, I hope that through our analysis, you can have a more suitable choice for you. Both bikes are also made of carbon fiber, but as we all know, Trek’s OCLV carbon fiber is their own research and development, and they have been tested in many ways. OCLV’s carbon fiber is lighter and stronger than ordinary carbon fiber, and I agree with Trek Domane SL 5 more on this point.
It is worth mentioning that the Cervélo Caledonia 105 uses Shimano 105 7020 hydraulic discs. Most of the bikes I ride have hydraulic disc brakes, so I’m more familiar with it. That’s not to say, I don’t think the Domane SL 5’s brakes are bad. In fact, I have experienced the Domane SL 5’s braking, I really like the Domane SL 5, if I have to say, I think you should choose according to your own habits.
Cannondale Synapse 105 vs Trek Domane SL 5
Some consider the Cannondale Synapse 105 a relatively heavy bike, and that’s because its frame uses SmartForm C2 alloy. However, I think this with its 30c tires will make the tires stick tightly to the ground when going downhill.
But I do prefer the Domane SL 5. Not only because of its lightweight frame and neat speed regulation, but also because of its Shimano SM-RT70 brakes, which can maintain stable braking even in rough terrain. So even if it’s more expensive, I’m still willing to pay for it.
Learn more:
Top 8 Best Road Bikes Under $3000
Top 10 Best Road Bikes Under $1000 – Great Value For Money
All in all, I think the Trek Domane SL 5 is an affordable and capable bike, if you are interested in the Trek Domane SL 5, give it a try.
