trek domane al 3 2020

Review of Trek Domane AL 3: Endurance Road Bike for Long Days

A high-performance road bike perfect for long weekend training rides, group sportives, or amateur competitions.

Domane AL 3 serves as an ideal upgrade for those planning to take their cycling more seriously.

It could also work as a good starter bike although its price range is on the slightly higher end.

If you want to start extending your time in the saddle and do some longer rides while maintaining comfort, the Domane AL 3 will be a good fit.

It’s a quality piece of equipment for the price.

Trek Domane AL 3 Quick Overview

Trek domane al 3 sizes, is it worth the money, is the trek domane al 3 right choice for you.

Seasoned riders will immediately recognize the stability and build quality of the Trek Domane AL 3.

It’s a clear step up from your standard road bike, with higher-grade components and professional assembly.

It delivers a noticeably more competitive feeling than most bikes in its price range while keeping the geometry relaxed enough for a comfortable ride.

Overall, the Domane AL 3 feels like the perfect long-distance training bike for serious cyclists.

• Frame : 100 Series Alpha Aluminum, DuoTrap S compatible
• Fork : Domane Carbon, fender mounts, alloy steerer
• Front Derailleur : Shimano Sora R3000
• Rear Derailleur : Shimano Sora R3000, 9-Speed
• Number of Gears : 18
• Rear hub : Formula RX-142 alloy, 6-bolt, Shimano 11-speed freehub, 142x12mm thru axle
• Rims : Bontrager Affinity Disc or Bontrager Paradigm SL, both tubeless ready 24-hole, 21mm
• Tire Size : 700x32c
• Weight : 22.71 lbs / 10.30 kg

Get From Trek Bikes

The Trek Domane AL 3 is a slight upgrade from the AL2, with better quality Shimano components and lower overall weight.

It also benefits from Trek’s DuoTrap S compatible 100 Series Alpha aluminum frame and an IsoSpeed carbon fork.

Endurance geometry frame

The Domane AL 3 is built around Trek’s lightweight 100 Series Alpha aluminum frame to provide a stable and comfortable ride over long distances.

Built for endurance, the Series 100 Alpha frames are stiff and responsive, instilling confidence in the rider.

The top tube is angled just enough to put the rider in a strong forward position without being overly aggressive while the seat tube angle strikes a balance between power and comfort.

Frame sizes range from 44cm (women) to 61cm, so they should fit riders of almost any height.

The smallest 44cm model on the women’s Domane AL 3 has a 65.7cm standover height, with an 84.2 cm standover height on the largest unisex model.

Carbon Fork

Trek have complimented their fabulous 100 Series Alpha frame on the Domane AL 3 a carbon fork and headset.

The addition of a carbon fork helps to reduce weight and provide a much more comfortable ride.

Trek Domane’s carbon fork has a unique dropout placement to optimize the wheelbase combined with a tight rocker cup for precise placement. The slightly wider fork fits a 5x100m QR and includes convenient fender mounts for those wet-weather riders.

Shimano Sora Groupset

The Domane AL3 is fully kitted-out with Shimano’s Sora R3000 groupset which provides the derailleurs, shifters, chain, cassette, and cranks.

On the rear cassette, you have nine cogs ranging from 11T to 32T and on the front crank, a 50T, and 34T.

While Sora is one of the most widely-used Shimano gearing sets for road bikes and has been trusted for years, it would have been nice to see a Tiagra groupset on a bike of this price.

However, considering the high-performance frame and quality assurance that Trek provides, the overall package still offers good value for money.

Some gearheads might consider an upgrade but the Sora system works perfectly well in this instance.

DuoTrap S Compatibility

Trek’s own line of Bontrager DuoTrap S digital sensors offer some of the best data measuring tools available.

Forget strapping on clumsy sensors to your fork with zip ties, the DuoTrap S screws subtly to the inside of your chainstay and sends data wirelessly to your phone or bicycle computer.

The DuoTrap S supports both ANT+ 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth signals so you can send data to both your phone or a Trip 300 cycling computer.

Blendr Compatible Stem

Trek’s Blendr Stem which is part of its Bontrager components range provides a way to attach accessories securely to your handlebars.

The stem is compatible with a variety of Duo Base attachments that fit phones, lights, satnavs, computers, and cameras.

Rather than using up space on your handlebars by trying to squeeze in third-party attachments, the Blendr stem places your accessories directly into the handlebar stem.

The tight and secure attachment method ensures your devices are safe on even the roughest of terrain.

There are 7 sizes of Domane AL 3 available from riders 4’11” to 6’3″

• 44 : 4’11” – 5’0″
• 49 : 5’1″ – 5’4″
• 52 : 5’4″ – 5’6″
• 54 : 5’6″ – 5’9″
• 56 : 5’9″ – 5’11”
• 58 : 5’11” – 6’1″
• 61 : 6’1″ – 6’3″

The Trek Domane AL 3 is not the cheapest bike in the range of aluminum frame road bikes with Sora components.

If you aren’t picky about build quality and materials you could certainly find something cheaper.

However, unless you are willing to fork out the extra for a full carbon frame you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better bike at this price.

It’s incredibly lightweight for a non-carbon frame and carries the undisputable Trek stamp of quality.

Yes, for a similar price you could get a bike with disc brakes or a Tiagra groupset but you would be sacrificing on quality elsewhere.

Overall, the Trek Domane AL 3 delivers value for money.

Check out our other reviews on Trek Domane bikes : AL 2 , SL4 , SL 5 , SL6 .

Related:   Trek Bikes Explained – In-Depth Overview

It’s affordable while still offering everything a rider needs in a competitive road bike.

The Domane AL 3 is a good bike for that upcoming cyclist looking to go the distance and spend some serious time in the saddle.

Sure, it’ll do you fine for the occasional weekend ride but for the money you’ll want to get a decent amount of use out of this bike.

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6 thoughts on “ review of trek domane al 3: endurance road bike for long days ”.

Very useful review. At the time of this post, there are two more offerings in the Domane AL line: the Domane AL4 (upgrades shifting and adds hydraulic brakes) and the AL5.

I’m thinking of getting this for my first road bike; currently riding an Aventon Level.2 (electric) and Trek Verve 3. (hybrid) I’m thinking this would raise my average speed by at least 3 mph compared to the Verve 3. Verve 3 would then become my gravel bike.

I’m in decent shape, but got dropped immediately on a group ride last weekend, even by older riders. I could only keep up with the fatties on road bikes.

Hi Jeremy, thanks for your comment! You’re right, the Domane would definitely add at least 3 mph compared to the Verve 3 and likely more with a bit of structured training. Enjoy!

Brilliant article i have a giant rapid 2 2017, am looking at getting this one for sportifs, would this be an upgrade on my giant rapid which is a quick commuter

Thanks, Derek! The Domane would be a huge upgrade, you’d be riding much more efficiently and achieving a higher average speed.

Hi, I recently purchased a domane al3 and I am looking into purchasing an indoor trainer for it.. I am new to cycling and do not know a ton about indoor trainers.. do you know of a type/brand that fits this specific bike that you would recommend? Thanks, Sam

Hi Samantha, Here is a link to all our posts related to indoor trainers . You might find one that fits your needs.

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Trek Domane ALR 3 review

Aluminium Domane inherits Trek’s comfort-boosting elastomer

Robert Smith Photography / Immediate Media

Simon Withers

Lovely-looking highly developed frame; smooth and comfortable ride; great 28mm tyres

Weightier than some comparable £1,000 bikes, 9-speed groupset

Trek has been using IsoSpeed elastomers in its carbon bikes for years. But in the world of trickle-down technology it was inevitable this accessory would turn up in its aluminium frames — and Trek’s 2018 Domanes are some of the first bikes to get it.

You get less for your money than the similarly priced Specialized Allez, but it might be a worthwhile trade-off if IsoSpeed brings some of the comfort it delivers in the carbon Domanes.

• Specialized Allez Elite review
• Ribble R872 Black 105 Fulcrum SE review

The Domane ALR3 looks fantastic in a rich pillar-box red, but IsoSpeed is the bike’s real USP. Trek says, this “‘decouples’ the seat tube from the top tube, allowing the seat tube to flex… The bike moves with the road while maintaining the feel and efficiency of the traditional road bike design”.

But it’s not smoke and mirrors, as Trek’s palmarès on the pavé of Paris-Roubaix and the gravel-heavy Strade Bianche shows, which are just some of the races won on IsoSpeed-equipped Treks since 2012. It has been influential too, with Lapierre and Wilier among brands with elastomer-equipped road bikes.

The flipside of IsoSpeed is cost, because it’s more complicated and more expensive to manufacture. This means you don’t get Shimano 105 or Tiagra, but 9-speed Sora. It’s an effective groupset though with decent ergonomics, and it does have a pleasingly wide range of gears, which I feel are the right choice on a bike at this price, where it will appeal to the newer rider and the older cyclist returning to the sport.

With my knackered footballer’s knees, I appreciated the smallest 32-tooth sprocket on hillier test rides. It’s noticeably lower than a bike with a 28-tooth bottom gear, and easily worth the price of bigger jumps between gears, which only becomes an issue if you’re competing. One deviation from Sora is the brakes, but the direct-mount Tektro 731s with cartridge blocks proved very effective.

So, are aluminium and IsoSpeed compatible? Yes.

The Domane’s ride is smooth, though this isn’t purely down to IsoSpeed. The wide, tubeless-ready rims and slick 28mm Bontrager rubber contribute their own share of surface-smoothing road-riding goodness. Might 28mm just become the new de facto standard on non-racing road bike? Well, you can run them at lower pressures for greater comfort, there’s little distortion, and no discernible loss in performance.

Through the saddle, this is probably the most comfortable aluminium frame at this price that I’ve ridden, and comparable with carbon. But it’s so subtle that you don’t really notice it; there’s no unwanted flex, no bobbling or weaving, but hit a pothole, scarred tarmac, small or large road bumps and it takes rough edges off very, very effectively, and without hampering the handling.

The geometry, with its slightly relaxed head angle and longer wheelbase, shows that this is a bike built for endurance rather than all-out speed, and compared with other £1,000 bikes, such as the Pinnacle Laterite 3 and Cannondale Synapse Sora AL Disc , the Domane is carrying a little extra weight. But it carries this very well. And though it hasn’t got rack mounts, its neat, discreet eyelets allow you to fit mudguards, which will just about squeeze in with 28mm tyres.

The result is a superb sportive machine or century rider, well geared for the hills and great for poor quality roads.

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Trek Domane AL 3 Womens Road Bike 2020 in Blue

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The Domane al 3 is a great-looking bike for a great price, and it's a super foundation for a happy future of road riding;a lightweight frame and quality parts make it a totally appropriate platform for fast group rides;the stable endurance geometry is comfortable over long distances, but this is still a quick racing bike. The unique isospeed carbon fork, which swoops forward toward the dropouts, absorbs vibrations from the road so your arms won't fatigue as quickly;

Key Features & Benefits

• The lightweight Alpha Aluminium frame, has mounts for mudguards and a carbon fork – a feature that's not typically available in road bikes at this price point.
• The Shimano drivetrain has 18 speeds, with shifters that are integrated into the brake levers so your hands never have to leave the bars. The wide range of gears makes it easier to ride terrain that varies in elevation.
• Endurance Geometry, Trek have utilised their renowned experience in developing endurance racing bikes on the AL3 and developed a bike that's both very stable and comfortable.

Full Specification

• Frame:  100 Series Alpha Aluminium, DuoTrap S compatible, hidden mudguard mounts
• Fork:  Domane carbon, hidden mudguard mounts
• Number of Gears:  18
• Gear Shifters:  Shimano Sora, 9-speed
• Chainset:  Shimano Sora
• Chainrings:  50/34T
• Rear Cassette:  Shimano Sora, 11-32, 9-speed
• Chain:  Shimano Sora HG53, 9-speed
• Front Derailleur:  Shimano Sora
• Rear Derailleur:  Shimano Sora
• Bottom Bracket:  Sealed cartridge
• Pedals:  Wellgo nylon body w/alloy cage
• Rims:  Bontrager Affinity, Tubeless Ready, 24-hole, 21 mm width, Presta valve
• Front Hub:  Formula TK-31 alloy, 5x100 mm QR
• Rear Hub:  Formula TK-32 alloy, Shimano 8/9/10 freehub, 5x130 mm QR
• Front Tyre:  Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite, 700x28c
• Rear Tyre:  Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite, 700x28c
• Brakes:  Alloy dual-pivot
• Handlebars:  Bontrager Comp VR-C, 31.8 mm
• Handlebar Tape:  Bontrager tape
• Headset:  Integrated, cartridge bearing, sealed, 1-1/8˝
• Stem:  Bontrager Elite, 31.8 mm, 7-degree, w/computer and light mou
• Saddle:  Bontrager Arvada Comp, steel rails
• Seatpost:  Bontrager, 2-bolt head, 27.2 mm, 8 mm offset
• Accessories:  N/A
• Weight:  Not Available

Women's Bike Sizing Guide

Womens bikes, regardless of whether they are road bikes, hybrids or mountain bikes tend to use the T-Shirt sizing of S, M, L etc. but some will still have the size in cm or inches. Women’s specific bike designs will offer a little more clearance over the top tube, and a shorter reach, by a combination of adjusting the frame design and changing key components such as the saddle, seatpost, stem and handlebar.

As a rule of thumb if you can identify your size as Medium on one brand, you should use that as a starting point on another brand too.

If you already own a medium mountain bike for example and are comfortable with the sizing, start there.

If you need any more advice on bike sizing for women's bikes please contact us and we can help you make the right choice.

Geometry for Trek Domane AL 3 Womens Road Bike

Dimensions in mm unless otherwise stated

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Is Trek Domane AL 3 Disc A Good Bike? [Trek Domane AL 3 Disc Review]

Table of Contents

We have reviewed the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc

• Price: $1,449.99
• Frame: 100 Series Alpha Aluminum
• Tire: 700×32c

What we like about it: Lightweight, sturdy frames and tires take you on bigger adventures.

What we don’t like about it: Mechanical disc braking some people think it’s not powerful enough (actual riding experience tells me mechanical disc braking is just as powerful).

Rating: (4.6/5)

Introduction

As a cyclist, for a road bike, I want it to be unbeatable on flat roads, so when faced with the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc I wanted it to be a road runner, but I expected more from it.

This road bike’s excellent 100 Series Alpha Aluminum, slim 700×32c tires, and multi-shifting 2×9 drivetrain show us not only its lightning speed on the road, but also its ability to catch the eye of passersby like a magnet when it comes to commuting and light gravel roads, and its comfortable performance that is hard for me to ignore.

After a 3-month long review, this bike took us on nearly 80 miles of road riding, through park trails, and conquering gravelly countryside trails. Not only did we feel the bike’s excellent road speed, but we also experienced its outstanding performance on fitness and light gravel roads.

Below we break down the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc for road riding, gravel performance, general riding, key features, components and specs, and other versions.

If you want to know more about it, please stay tuned and we will bring more bike reviews.

Learn More: Trek Domane SL 5 Review – Are Performance Road Bikes Worth Buying?

Road Riding

Generally speaking, hardtail bikes are much better in rough, wooded terrain where this road bike is no match for a hardtail. However, on a flat road ride, the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc will keep the hardtail bike from seeing its tail.

This time we joined a road riding group that started together on an asphalt road, and although I was initially a bit behind them, I have to say that the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc had me cheered on by the crowd of teammates in the riding group for the second half of the ride.

Based on its slim 700×32c Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite road tires, and with a steep head tube angle (71.3°), it was able to maintain an above-average bike speed even on rides where I wasn’t doing my best.

Also, the Shimano Sora HG53 2×9 drivetrain, when facing different road surfaces, it allows me to make shifts to adjust to the most appropriate speed and its shifting is not as complicated as I thought.

In addition, it has Tektro C550 mechanical disc brakes, which allow me to maintain strong braking when descending on wet roads and needing to stop in a hurry.

As we have noticed, this is a road bike, so in terms of damping it is no trail or mountain bike professional shock absorber, but it is important to mention that this bike’s IsoSpeed carbon fiber fork, it makes up for it in this aspect.

All in all, I’m fascinated by the speed of the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc on the road at the same price point.

Gravel Riding

I wasn’t expecting much from the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc in terms of gravel performance, but I was ruthless enough to throw it out on the gravel trails in order to get a more complete picture of all aspects of performance.

The trail was covered with small and large gravel blocks and flowing winding paths, which I was also concerned would cause some hindrance to the Domane AL 3 Disc ride.

However, after the ride, I really couldn’t wait to jump off the bike and share with my friends that I was dazzled by the bike’s performance on the gravel trails. This is because of its special IsoSpeed carbon fork, which allows it to effectively absorb bumps caused by gravel, which made my ride more fun by not only not losing my pedaling efficiency, but also reducing my fatigue.

In addition, the Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite road tire is undaunted by gravel. The relatively slim 32c tire features Hard-Case Lite puncture protection, which gives it greater wear resistance and allows it to travel quickly and safely in the face of gravel.

In short, the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc is not only suitable for road riding, but also outstanding in its performance even when riding on gravel.

General Terrain

If you think that the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc’s features can only be used for road racing, then I must say that you really don’t know much about the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc.

As we all know, global warming, and the ecological environment needs each of us to take action to protect, low-carbon life, starting from me. So now whether it’s for work, or for some normal travel, we can see the bicycle figure, and I am no exception. So in this 3-month cycling review, I abandoned my usual riding partner and used Trek Domane AL 3 Disc for commuting, fitness, and leisure.

Based on the weight of the lightweight body and the Bontrager Comp VR-S road handlebars, it will be more agile when performing maneuvers, and its handlebars will provide shorter drop and reach distances, retaining the classic variable radius shape that provides a quick and comfortable transition from the hood to the sprint drop.

On my daily commute to work, my start-up speed always causes amazement among my peers when the light turns green, which is a source of joy for me throughout the day.

The smooth Tektro C550 mechanical disc brakes and 2×9 transmission shine when I’m riding for fitness with friends in the park or on flat village roads.

If you are a low-carbon living environmentalist, or if you are a commuter rider who loves fitness, the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc will be one of your quality choices.

Main Features

As we all know, aluminum is a popular frame material, and a regular aluminum frame doesn’t feel as comfortable on my long rides, but when I rode the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc on long rides, it made me smile on my long rides, whether it was over rough trails or through gravel trails.

In fact, at one point in my riding, I thought that this was a road bike with a carbon frame, but the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc is indeed a road bike with an aluminum frame.

Yes, Trek’s engineers have researched methods that allow the material to retain the best properties of aluminum – lightness, and strength – while improving ride quality.

In addition, this bike’s subdued Lithium Grey, quiet Crystal White, and individual Alpine Blue to Dnister Black Fade are three paint colors that really appeal to me and have a relatively wide range of options.

If you like clean and tidy frames and look like I do, I think this bike will catch your eye too. I was impressed by its clean internal alignment and simple and generous frame design.

In addition, the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc’s two water bottle mounting holes and rear rack mounting holes are set up so that I can carry plenty of water and camping gear.

Comfortable geometry that will make me love the movement on two wheels. With the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc’s steep head tube angle (71.3°), I get faster steering on winding roads.

However, I must also mention that on rough terrain, steering may be a bit unstable if done at high speeds (although I don’t feel this way on my rides).

In addition, its steep seat tube angle (73.7°) and proper seat tube length (500mm) make my riding easier, allowing me to pedal more easily and maintain a comfortable upright ride with a higher range of vision.

 Also, proper Trail (59mm) has faster and more agile steering, in addition to an improved ability to maintain a straight line in tight corners, while it is also stable in speed.

Components and Specifications

Shimano sora r3000 2×9 drivetrain.

For mountain biking, 1× would give me a better experience, but more speed options on the road are what I want, so the Shimano Sora R3000 2×9 speed range is what I like.

On this road ride, Trek Domane AL 3 Disc was sturdy and most attractive 9-speed parts, it added a lot of fun to my riding trip.

The drive has a sleek and clean design with higher-level kit technology, so even if you are changing speeds on rough terrain, you don’t have to worry about chain rap issues happening too often (provided it is set up correctly). Some may think the 2× may be more complicated to change speeds, so I asked a less experienced rider to experience it and he told us that the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc 2× didn’t feel any different from the 1×.

So I think the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc with Shimano Sora R3000 2×9 drivetrain is for anyone.

Tektro C550 Mechanical Disc Brake

When I started riding the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc, my friend was surprised and asked, “This is not the hydraulic disc brake you like?” In response to her question, I told her for sure that this mechanical disc brake was the most cost-effective brake I wanted to have.

Most people who love to ride understand that hydraulic disc brakes are very capable and feel good, but they are relatively expensive and troublesome to maintain.

Mechanical disc brakes are relatively affordable, and it does not have a weak braking ability. In addition, maintenance for mechanical discs will be easier, and in my actual riding, when I need to stop the wheel, I often don’t need to spend much effort to stop the bike steadily.

Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite Road Tire

My first impression of this bike’s tires was that it was too slim, and with a 32c tire width, I was skeptical of its stability. But I still had a riding experience and sure enough the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc broke my misconceptions about it.

Because the Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite road tire has Hard-Case Lite puncture protection, there is no noticeable wear on the tire over gravel, and the 32c width of the tire reduces rolling resistance and provides enough traction on almost every road, even when facing corners. The 32c width reduces rolling resistance and provides enough traction on almost every road, even when facing corners.

IsoSpeed Carbon Fiber Fork

As we can see, the bike doesn’t have a shock, and like many of you, I may have wondered “what if I hit a bumpy, rough road?” Don’t worry, the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc takes this into account. The special IsoSpeed carbon fiber fork reduces the feeling of bumps on the ground without sacrificing the efficiency of riding speed, allowing me to remain relaxed and happy while doing the rugged ground riding.

Other Versions of Trek Domane AL

In our current review, we have reviewed and experienced in detail the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc’s frame, Shimano Sora R3000 2×9 drivetrain, Tektro C550 mechanical disc brakes, and its tires and other components. To get a more detailed look at the bike, we found other versions of it.

The Trek Domane AL is available as a 2×9 Trek Domane AL 3, but also as a 2×10 Trek Domane AL 4 and a 2×11 Trek Domane AL 5 . These are priced at $1,799 and $2,099 respectively, and both are hydraulic disc brakes, so if you prefer more variable speed or hydraulic disc brakes you can also try them out.

All in all, there are 3 different Trek Domane AL’s to choose from, so no matter what your budget is and what your speed change requirements are, you can find the right comfortable road bike for you here.

Learn More: Trek Domane AL 4 Disc Review – Chariot Suspect Revealed!

What do we like about it?

• The lightweight aluminum frame can enjoy the freedom of Mercedes-Benz on the road.
• The wide range of 2×9 shifts allows for appropriate gear shifts to suit the changing terrain.
• Aggressive road tires that take you to exciting driving speeds.
• Tektro C550 mechanical disc brake is affordable and low maintenance.
• Rack-mountable setup allows you to carry more essential items.

What we don’t like about it?

• Some people think mechanical disc brakes are too cheap (it will surprise you if you are willing to try it).
• Not too rich a paint color selection.
• What is the material of Trek Domane AL 3 Disc’s frame?

Trek Domane AL 3 Disc’s frame is 100 Series Alpha Aluminum.

• How many gears does the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc have?

Trek Domane AL 3 Disc has a variety of gears.

• How much does the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc weigh?
• Which height riders do the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc fit?

Trek Domane AL 3 Disc size chart:

Trek Domane AL 3 Disc Specs

Comparison table, trek domane al 3 disc vs schwinn fastback carbon 105.

To be honest, I was a little surprised to see that the Schwinn Fastback Carbon 105 is a carbon fiber frame at $2299.99. At this point, some people may think the Domane AL 3 Disc’s aluminum frame is slightly inferior, but in my opinion, the lightweight aluminum frame doesn’t give me a bad experience.

Also, since the Schwinn Fastback Carbon 105’s cable-pull brakes produce some harshness on slippery surfaces and are not enough for a rider like me who loves to go fast, I would prefer disc brakes.

Also, 700c x 25c tires, maybe better in speed, but the 25c tires are a bit slim, which may take more attention for novices to handle it when driving fast.

If you’re on a budget and prefer disc brakes, you can look at the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc, which is $850 cheaper and will give you a pleasant surprise.

Learn more : Top 10 Best Road Bikes Under $1000 – Great Value For Money

Trek Domane AL 3 Disc vs Scott Contessa Speedster 25

It was really hard to choose between these two bikes. First of all, they are both $1499.99 in price and they have the same 2×9 transmission range, but in real-world riding the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc feels better to me, it doesn’t have a noticeable rustle when shifting.

With almost identical mechanical disc brakes, there is little difference in their performance on wet roads. If I had to say one thing, the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc is 0.44Ibs lighter than the Scott Contessa Speedster 25, so the Domane AL 3 Disc gives you a better experience in braking.

Also, as we can see, both bikes have the same tire size of 700 x 32c, but if you notice the tread pattern, you’ll notice that the 60tpi Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite road tire has relatively more wear and traction.

If you are looking for lighter weight or better tires, you can try the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc.

Trek Domane AL 3 Disc vs Trek Domane AL 5 Disc

The Domane AL 5 Disc and the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc are both parts of the Domane AL series. Both bikes have the same aluminum frame, but the Domane AL 5 Disc costs $650 more than the Domane AL 3 Disc.

However, the Domane AL 5 Disc is a hydraulic disc brake, which may be softer compared to a mechanical disc, and the Domane AL 5 Disc has a 2×11 drivetrain, so there are a few more speed options than the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc. If you like more speed options, you may be attracted to the Domane AL 5 Disc.

It’s also worth mentioning that the tires on both bikes are the same, so there’s not much difference between them in terms of wear resistance and traction.

If the 2×11 transmission is complicated for you, you can choose the more suitable 2×9 transmission, both in terms of ease of speed change and speed range selectivity it is sufficient, and you can save $650 to upgrade your car.

Learn More: Trek Domane AL 5 Disc Endurance Bike Review– Would It Be The Endurance Bike You Want?

Trek Domane AL 3 Disc vs Canyon Endurace 8 Disc

As we can see the Canyon Endurace 8 Disc has a 2×11 shift range and it also comes with Shimano RT70 hydraulic disc brakes, so it appeals to me in at least those two areas and the not-so-high price tag has me intrigued.

Although the bike looks great from the drive and braking side, that doesn’t mean that the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc will admit defeat.

The Domane AL 3 Disc’s mechanical disc brakes are affordable, light, and low maintenance, and not only that, but the brakes work reliably even on slippery surfaces. Some people may think that the speed range of the Domane AL 3 Disc 2×9 is a bit too small, but in my opinion, it depends on your needs and the 2×9 shifting is great in my real-world riding. I also like the affordable price of the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc.

Whether you’re riding on light gravel roads or flat roads, I think the Trek Domane AL 3 Disc is one of the bikes you should choose for the money.

In case, the above comments are helpful to you, please remember to share the subscription. Have a great day!

Canyon Endurace 8 Disc Review – Superb Entry Enduro Bike

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Results have arrived, trek domane bikes & framesets for sale.

Shop new & used Trek Domane bikes and framesets at TPC - The Pro's Closet. Find reviews, specs, weight info, prices and size charts on various models (SL 7, SLR) and popular model years. Read our Trek Domane Quick-Take Review below.

Trek Domane Size Chart

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Trek Domane - Weight, Specs, Price

Trek domane 3rd party reviews, 2022 trek domane review - a tpc quick-take.

• IsoSpeed Technology: A standout feature, the rear IsoSpeed decouplers absorb fatiguing road chatter. They make the ride unmistakably smooth, like riding on a cushion of air.
• Storage integration: The built-in storage compartment on the down tube is genuinely useful. It beats having to strap a saddlebag to the frame and clutter the bike.
• Versatility: Generous tire clearance (up to 38mm without fenders) and the overall design mean the Domane is adept at handling both tarmac and light gravel. It opens up avenues for exploration beyond the usual road routes.
• Endurance geometry: Maintaining the spirit of the Domane lineage, the 2023 version offers a comfortable, upright riding position suited for long rides.
• Weight: (18.5 lbs size 56cm) The Domane, with all its tech and features, is on the heavier side, especially in its base models. This might not be a concern for the casual rider, but weight weenies might raise an eyebrow.
• Cost: The technology packed into the Domane makes it a bit pricey. While you get a lot for your money, it might be overkill for those not intending to utilize all its features.
• Aero compromises: Compared to race or aero road bikes, the Domane doesn't cut through the wind as efficiently. It's built for comfort over speed, and it shows.
• Over-engineering for some: While tech enthusiasts might rejoice, the myriad of features could be overwhelming for someone looking for a simple endurance experience.

Bottom Line:

2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Disc Review

The 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Disc might just be the bike for you. But before you make a purchase, it’s important to know all the details about this bike.

Trek is a well-known brand in the cycling world, and the Domane AL 3 Disc is one of their latest models.

This bike is designed for riders who want a comfortable and versatile ride without breaking the bank. But does it live up to its promises?

In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Disc and evaluate its features, performance, and overall value.

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a beginner, this review will help you decide if this bike is the right choice for your needs.

The Trek Domane AL 3 Disc is a road bike that has been designed to provide a comfortable and efficient ride on long-distance journeys.

With advanced features and a sleek design, the 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Disc is a bike that is sure to impress riders of all skill levels.

The 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Disc is a high-quality road bike that provides a smooth and comfortable ride, thanks to its advanced features and components.

With a lightweight 100 Series Alpha Aluminum frame and carbon fork, this bike is built for speed and agility, while the Tektro mechanical disc brakes provide reliable stopping power in any weather condition.

– Lightweight 100 Series Alpha Aluminum frame with a carbon fork for a smooth ride.

– Tektro mechanical disc brakes for reliable stopping power in any weather condition.

– 2×9-speed Shimano Sora drivetrain featuring a 11-32t cassette and compact 50/34 chainrings for smooth and efficient shifting.

– Bontrager Paradigm SL wheels for a fast and stable ride.

– IsoSpeed technology for a more comfortable ride.

– Compatible with DuoTrap S for easy tracking of your ride data.

– Ideal for road riding, commuting, and fitness training.

– Fender and rack mounts for versatility.

Frame and Design

The 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Disc features a lightweight and durable aluminum frame that has been optimized for endurance riding.

The frame is designed to absorb road vibrations, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride even on rough terrain.

The bike also features a carbon fiber fork featuring IsoSpeed tech that further enhances the bike’s ability to absorb shocks and vibrations.

The 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Disc comes equipped with a 2×9 Shimano Sora groupset that provides smooth and precise shifting through the 11-32t cassette and 50/34 compact crankset.

The bike also features Tektro mechanical disc brakes that provide excellent stopping power, even in wet conditions.

The bike’s wheels are Bontrager Paradigm SL wheels wrapped in Bontrager R1 Hard-Case Lite 700x32mm tires that provide a stable and responsive ride.

One of the standout features of the 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Disc is its comfort.

The bike features an IsoSpeed fork that allows it to absorb more road vibrations.

The bike also features a Bontrager Verse Comp saddle that is designed to provide comfort and support on long rides.

Performance

The 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Disc is a bike that is designed for performance.

The bike’s lightweight frame and components allow it to accelerate quickly and maintain speed on flat roads.

The bike’s disc brakes provide excellent stopping power, allowing riders to descend hills with confidence.

Overall, the 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Disc is an excellent road bike that is designed for endurance riding. With advanced features and a sleek design, the bike is sure to impress riders of all skill levels.

If you’re in the market for a new road bike, the 2023 Trek Domane AL 3 Disc is definitely worth considering.

Order online and have it shipped to your local dealer for final assembly!!

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• Rider Notes

2018 Trek Domane AL 3

An aluminum frame endurance bike with mid-range components and rim brakes.

Manufacturer Price

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Based on frame geometry and build specs.

A bike with lower gearing will be easier to ride up steep hills, while a higher top end means it will pedal faster down hills.

Domane AL 3

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• 6'0", size 56cm, Just right

Feb 2024 · road.cc Tech

With Classics season upon us, let’s take a look back at the high-tech bike that Spartacus rode in his final race season, with rim brakes and mechanical shifting

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Dec 2019 · Richard Windsor

The versatile and comfortable Trek Domane SL 6 put to the test

Comfortable

Slightly sluggish on steep hills

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

A stunning blend of speed, comfort, and versatility

Huge model range

A little heavy

Jul 2019 · Dan Cavallari

Trek introduces the third generation of its endurance bike, the Domane, and gets a lot of things right. Dan Cavallari went to Italy to ride it.

Feb 2018 · Nick Legan

Save your money for travel and good food. This is all the road bike you really need to enjoy cycling. Buy if you're looking for a way to take on big miles without a big payout

A ride reminiscent of Trek’s carbon Domane model, fantastic value, luxurious touches, good looks

Stopping power let down by sub-par brake pads

The Trek Domane SL7 endurance road bike comes in a wide variety of specs, prices and with disc or rim brakes. But the real selling point is the IsoSpeed decouplers front and rear that reduce bumps and impact forces to improve long distance cycling comfort. Read our Trek Domane review for tech details & more!

Jul 2017 · Benjamin Topf, Manuel Buck, Robin Schmitt

Trek Domane SLR 10 RSL: Race Shop Limited – The American manufacturer doesn’t really do understatements, not even when it comes to the name of their bikes.

May 2017 · William Tracy

Trek's Domane crushes cobbles, sure. But on smooth blacktop it’s just as capable.

Last updated February 15 Not listed for 2,270 days