Thank you for taking the time to share this video and information. I've been looking into this model for a couple months now. I've been rocking a 2015 Trek 520 for a long while. The Domane seems fair on the wallet with great quality.
Thank you for taking the time to watch and leave your feedback. Both are sincerely appreciated. Yes, the Domane AL2 is a great-value road bike for anyone. I always suggest if budget allows, to go with the AL3 due to the addition of disc brakes.
Hi Old Sports, thanks for this thoughtful video. I've purchased this bike 6 months ago to see if cycling is for me. These 6 months has just proven that I'm really into cycling and wanted to ask you what would you recommend to buy as an upgrade to AL2? Maybe something with carbon below 2k USD. Could be used. I know this question is too broad to answer, but perhaps anything I should be putting more attention to ? Thanks in advance!
This is a great question. Thank you for asking, as well as watching our video. A good carbon upgrade would be either the Domane SL5 or the Checkpoint SL5. Both are great bikes, comfortable to ride, and very upgradable. A used one can be found for $2000-$2200. I own a Checkpoint and absolutely love it.
what do you think about just using the frame and making a classic 11s, easy to fix and service, full ultegra and nicer wheels, carbon seat post, nice tires...?
Thank you for watching, and great question. The max tire size is 38mm, so you should be able to ride some light gravel course. As always, exercise prudence when choosing the gravel trail you'll be riding.
Thank you for the review. One thing I feel you and most other reviewers might be overlooking is the bike's subtle appeal and capabilities for someone who already owns decent bikes but is looking for something a bit more casual for relaxed trips into town. It's a bike you can leave in a bike rack (strapped and locked, of course) without too much concern. I understand it's an entry-level model, and most people are probably assessing it from that perspective. However, I'm seriously considering getting one myself-they're now available for under £600 here in the UK. While there are cheaper options available from supermarkets, this one feels a bit more special. I noticed someone in the comments mentioning the Giant Contend, which I think is another good alternative, similarly priced these days and sharing that same subtle charm.
My friend, thank you so much for watching and contributing to the conversation. You are absolutely correct that we overlooked that subtle yet important detail. This would be perfect for what we refer to here as a canal crawler. If you decide to purchase one, please let us know how it works for you and adventure safely.
I bought a used bike of the same model, its the same bike i want to use it for commuting in the city and maybe change tires for all terrain purpose, like a gravel bike. Would the body handle the rougher style riding? Thanks
You guys don't do justice to this bike. It is highly upgradable as i've done. Even fitted Carbon Elitewheel 35m and mounted Centuratos M 40m that calipered out to 42 inflated to 40psi. 11-40 ultegra cogs, 105 group set. Swapped the Trekro mechanical disk calipers with Mechanical hydraulic Juin Teck F1 set. From road to gravel, it's just amazing and super comfortable on long rides.
A man after my own heart. Thank you for taking the time to watch my friend and leave your feedback. We certainly appreciate it, and I'm sure our other viewers will as well.
I was thinking about just using the frame and making a classic 11s, easy to fix and service, full ultegra and nicer wheels, carbon seat post, nice tires... whats the weight after your up grades.
Great question, and thank you for asking Tim. You can, but you would need to find a generic rack that uses clamps to secure it to the triangle and seat. There are a few options on the market.
Great question, and thank you for asking. Specialized, Salsa, Giant, and Cannondale all have comparable models to the AL2. I would see what dealers in your area carry these brands and then ride each one. Though all of them will have a similar geometry, one will fit you better. That's the one I would choose.
@@GetOutArizona but not all of them has geometry for 190 - 195 cm and maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider, and cargo) of 275 pounds (125 kg) !
Great question, and thank you for asking. I believe the Giant Contend 3 is a competent and capable bike, and I do not feel you would be disappointed if you went this route. My suggestion is to take both bikes for a test ride and see which one fits you the best. Fit and feel make all the difference. I hope this answer is helpful to you, my friend. Thank you for watching and taking the time to ask it.
I just bought this (today!) I first bought a used bike and I fell and broke the gear knob off an that older trek bike. It would have cost half the cost of this new bike to fix... HOWEVER Can I use this for a ride, hence a 4-hour ride with very high altitude meters? I want to compete next summer. Love this content, thanks
Absolutely, this bike shares the same slack geometry as the Domane, so you will have a very comfortable ride even out longer distances and times. Thank you for taking the time to watch and leave your comments. Both are sincerely appreciated. Adventure safely, my friend, and good luck with your races.
Just purchased the domane al 2. I'm curious about the pedals though I plan to upgrade. Does al2 come with clip in pedals with strap? Thanks for great info and perspectives.
It should have come with toe strap pedals. Which in my opinion are the worst pedals ever. Definitely go clipless before going straps. At least you will have the ability to adjust the release tension. Thank you for taking the time to watch the video, leave feedback, and leave feedback. All are appreciated. Keep us posted on how you’re enjoying your new bike. I’d love to hear your feedback. Adventure safe my friend.
This is a bit off the topic of this episode, but do e-bikes have any unique considerations for tubeless tire set ups? I have an Allant 8s and I don't see a tubeless ready tire in the Bontrager lineup that line up with that bike.
That is a great question, and thank you for asking. No, there is nothing unique about a tubeless tire for a peddle assist bike. To be honest, I dislike the Bontrager lineup of tires altogether. I choose Maxis for a majority of my needs, but Panaracer is also a great brand as well. Consult with your local shop to find a solid commuter tire that is tubeless. They may have other options as well. Thanks again for watching and for the interaction. Both are appreciated, my friend. Adventure safely.
Hello Antonio. Thank you for taking the time to watch and ask your question. Both are appreciated. MBM has a good reputation in the biking community. While Brandon nor I have any direct experience with the company or their bikes, their customer feedback indicates people are happy with the product. I wish I had a better answer for you, my friend, but we are limited on the bikes we are able to obtain for review. Again, thank you for watching, and have a great day.
Hey Trik, thanks for watching and asking your question. I am pretty rough on my tires and push them to the absolute breaking point on the road and on the trail. That being said, I typically do not replace it until I start seeing the mesh material through the rubber of the tire. Is this the smart thing to do? Probably not, but that's how I roll, no pun intended. I always keep a spare set at my home so when replacement time rolls around, there is no waiting; I just get it done. You could consult your local shop, though, to gain a second opinion that is equally qualified. Thanks again for watching, my friend. I hope this answer is helpful.
@@tonienduro9956 Well, I can tell you this, I do not like Bontrager tires. I feel they are the worst. Give gator skins a try or even Maxxis for gravel/cyclocross.
Thank you for asking your question. Yes, this is American dollars. We should start being more specific with the pricing. Thank you for watching, my friend.
Yes, these would both make great options as well for someone who is just getting into the sport. Thank you for watching and taking the time to leave your feedback.
@@mikebayless4268 that’s impressive my friend. I know plenty of people that don’t do 1000 miles in a year. We did a review on the Domane Sl5 several weeks ago and just shot a comparison video with the Checkpoint SL5, which I own. The Domane SL5 will be my next purchase.
I would have gone for this bike if I didn’t already have an fx 2. Wanted something racier and more exciting, so I went for a specialized allez. Best choice imo
Hey Rocky, thanks for watching and sharing your feedback with us. I believe all three bikes have their merits and would suit the needs of anyone who would purchase them. You are correct, though; the Allez is a nice bike.
Great question, and thank you for asking. I am a smidge under 5'11" and ride a 56cm. If you are 5'7", I would suggest riding a 52cm to start. Trek has a sizing chart on their website as well.
Hi, I was watching the video and they almost made this bike look like "garbage" for not costing thousands of dollars. It's easy to comment on very expensive bikes and mockingly comment on aluminum frames and rim brakes. Unless someone is very serious about cycling, the vast majority of people will buy bikes around the US 1000 mark and be happy to do so. I live in New York and these are the ones you see on the street. Ask Tour de France winners who used rim brakes if they had "problems" with them...
We appreciate you taking the time to watch and leave feedback. Brandon and I both own aluminum-framed bikes with rim brakes, and we enjoy them quite a bit.
Seems like there's a disconnection on who this is for. This is a budget bike to me, if you can casually spend 1000 on a bike odds are you can spend more. You seem to be judging it as somebody with a much larger budget available like we can just get better. This is my first bike over 1000. Jesus h Christ bikes are fuckin expensive. Comparison is the thief of joy. Y'all seem to dog on but seem like your embarrassed to like it.
Avery, thank you for taking the time to watch our video and offer your feedback. Both are appreciated. I'll unpack your feedback a bit, and forgive me for being verbose. You are correct; bikes are ridiculously priced these days, almost to the point of pricing out an entire segment of the community and those who would become a part of said community. Unfortunately, I do not see this changing, and that is tragic. I think this bike is rad. I rode one the week after we made this video with a friend who eventually purchased one, and she couldn't be happier. If I had the extra cheddar, I would buy one and put a rack on the back, and the house is on the front because I'm that guy. And lastly, we were not being judgmental of anyone. Brandon and I sometimes forget that our sense of humor and dialogue can sometimes be droll. It is not meant to be disparaging; we just grew up watching too much Monty Python. Thanks again for watching, my friend. I hope you enjoy your Domane. Please keep us posted on how she's doing for you and adventure safely.
You are correct. However, this is an exception and not the standard for the industry. I'm not saying that road brakes are not effective, nor am I saying that they do not have their place in the road biking community. But the current mantra, driven by the industry, is that hydraulic disc brakes are the way to go. That being said, thank you for watching and adding to the conversation, my friend.
Yes, I understand. I went to walmart to look at bikes, then I stopped by my local bike shop where they sell trek. I was blown out by the price difference. Trek bikes are on a different level. But their prices are outrageous. Not even my friends honda Civic cost that much.
@@samochoa6733But a thousand dollar bike is just better. Big box store bikes are fine for riding in the neighborhood but they are often cheaply made and don't take much when it comes to wear and tear.
If 1k is a lot for you, then you really are not serious about getting into bicycling. This bike here is cheaper because it has rim brakes which sadly a lot of bikes just don't have anymore. This bike will last a lifetime.....a $250 may last a lifetime but it will have more issues and just won't feel the same riding. Don't get offended by the term entry level. Some guys buy 5k+ bikes and change them like they change their socks. Most commuters use the same bike for years. These guys are not commuters. They ride more than just their own neighborhood....
Thank you for taking the time to share this video and information. I've been looking into this model for a couple months now. I've been rocking a 2015 Trek 520 for a long while. The Domane seems fair on the wallet with great quality.
Thank you for taking the time to watch and leave your feedback. Both are sincerely appreciated. Yes, the Domane AL2 is a great-value road bike for anyone. I always suggest if budget allows, to go with the AL3 due to the addition of disc brakes.
Hi Old Sports, thanks for this thoughtful video. I've purchased this bike 6 months ago to see if cycling is for me. These 6 months has just proven that I'm really into cycling and wanted to ask you what would you recommend to buy as an upgrade to AL2? Maybe something with carbon below 2k USD. Could be used. I know this question is too broad to answer, but perhaps anything I should be putting more attention to ? Thanks in advance!
This is a great question. Thank you for asking, as well as watching our video. A good carbon upgrade would be either the Domane SL5 or the Checkpoint SL5. Both are great bikes, comfortable to ride, and very upgradable. A used one can be found for $2000-$2200. I own a Checkpoint and absolutely love it.
what do you think about just using the frame and making a classic 11s, easy to fix and service, full ultegra and nicer wheels, carbon seat post, nice tires...?
Oh, that is an idea that I can get behind. Seriously, I think that would be a dope setup. Great suggestion, my friend.
Nice bike for sure. U think this could handle the occasional light gravel ride as well?
Thank you for watching, and great question. The max tire size is 38mm, so you should be able to ride some light gravel course. As always, exercise prudence when choosing the gravel trail you'll be riding.
@ hmm are u sure about 38mm. The Website says 28mm but maybe I’m mistaken
@@powidel2118 You are correct, I a[oligize. I was looking at a different model. It's 25mm with a fender and 28mm without.
Thank you for the review. One thing I feel you and most other reviewers might be overlooking is the bike's subtle appeal and capabilities for someone who already owns decent bikes but is looking for something a bit more casual for relaxed trips into town. It's a bike you can leave in a bike rack (strapped and locked, of course) without too much concern. I understand it's an entry-level model, and most people are probably assessing it from that perspective. However, I'm seriously considering getting one myself-they're now available for under £600 here in the UK. While there are cheaper options available from supermarkets, this one feels a bit more special. I noticed someone in the comments mentioning the Giant Contend, which I think is another good alternative, similarly priced these days and sharing that same subtle charm.
My friend, thank you so much for watching and contributing to the conversation. You are absolutely correct that we overlooked that subtle yet important detail. This would be perfect for what we refer to here as a canal crawler. If you decide to purchase one, please let us know how it works for you and adventure safely.
I bought a used bike of the same model, its the same bike i want to use it for commuting in the city and maybe change tires for all terrain purpose, like a gravel bike. Would the body handle the rougher style riding? Thanks
The frame should be durable enough. Just be mindful of the tire size to avoid clearance issues.
You guys don't do justice to this bike. It is highly upgradable as i've done. Even fitted Carbon Elitewheel 35m and mounted Centuratos M 40m that calipered out to 42 inflated to 40psi. 11-40 ultegra cogs, 105 group set. Swapped the Trekro mechanical disk calipers with Mechanical hydraulic Juin Teck F1 set. From road to gravel, it's just amazing and super comfortable on long rides.
A man after my own heart. Thank you for taking the time to watch my friend and leave your feedback. We certainly appreciate it, and I'm sure our other viewers will as well.
Can this 2 Rim model change its brake shoes to Shimano 105?
I was thinking about just using the frame and making a classic 11s, easy to fix and service, full ultegra and nicer wheels, carbon seat post, nice tires... whats the weight after your up grades.
@@emiliojaravasquez914 Yes, it can, my friend. I am sorry I didn't see this early. My humble apologies to you.
Can you install panniers and other bike tour equipment on the Domane AL 2?
Great question, and thank you for asking Tim. You can, but you would need to find a generic rack that uses clamps to secure it to the triangle and seat. There are a few options on the market.
Which bikes would you recommend to buy instead Domane AL 2?
Great question, and thank you for asking. Specialized, Salsa, Giant, and Cannondale all have comparable models to the AL2. I would see what dealers in your area carry these brands and then ride each one. Though all of them will have a similar geometry, one will fit you better. That's the one I would choose.
@@GetOutArizona but not all of them has geometry for 190 - 195 cm and maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider, and cargo) of 275 pounds (125 kg) !
How would you compare this to the Giant Contend 3, also rim brake?
Great question, and thank you for asking. I believe the Giant Contend 3 is a competent and capable bike, and I do not feel you would be disappointed if you went this route. My suggestion is to take both bikes for a test ride and see which one fits you the best. Fit and feel make all the difference.
I hope this answer is helpful to you, my friend. Thank you for watching and taking the time to ask it.
Can this 2 Rim model change its brake shoes to Shimano 105?
Yes, you can use the Shimano brake shoes will work. Thank you for asking your question and watching our video.
@@GetOutArizona This "new" Domane AL use short reach brakes? I remember that old models use long reach brake calipers.
I just bought this (today!) I first bought a used bike and I fell and broke the gear knob off an that older trek bike. It would have cost half the cost of this new bike to fix... HOWEVER Can I use this for a ride, hence a 4-hour ride with very high altitude meters? I want to compete next summer. Love this content, thanks
Absolutely, this bike shares the same slack geometry as the Domane, so you will have a very comfortable ride even out longer distances and times. Thank you for taking the time to watch and leave your comments. Both are sincerely appreciated. Adventure safely, my friend, and good luck with your races.
@@GetOutArizona Thank you so much! Keep up the good content
@@improveplaybook You're welcome. We will do our best.
With this sort of bike Marco Pantani has ridden up Alp D Huez and he still holds the record
Just purchased the domane al 2. I'm curious about the pedals though I plan to upgrade. Does al2 come with clip in pedals with strap? Thanks for great info and perspectives.
It should have come with toe strap pedals. Which in my opinion are the worst pedals ever. Definitely go clipless before going straps. At least you will have the ability to adjust the release tension.
Thank you for taking the time to watch the video, leave feedback, and leave feedback. All are appreciated. Keep us posted on how you’re enjoying your new bike. I’d love to hear your feedback. Adventure safe my friend.
@@GetOutArizona Thank you very much and I will post my bike performance after I've ridden awhile. Looking forward to your next video. Again thank you.
This is a bit off the topic of this episode, but do e-bikes have any unique considerations for tubeless tire set ups? I have an Allant 8s and I don't see a tubeless ready tire in the Bontrager lineup that line up with that bike.
That is a great question, and thank you for asking. No, there is nothing unique about a tubeless tire for a peddle assist bike. To be honest, I dislike the Bontrager lineup of tires altogether. I choose Maxis for a majority of my needs, but Panaracer is also a great brand as well.
Consult with your local shop to find a solid commuter tire that is tubeless. They may have other options as well.
Thanks again for watching and for the interaction. Both are appreciated, my friend. Adventure safely.
@@GetOutArizona Thanks for the quick reply. I'll give those suggestions a try.
What you think about "MBM Starlight" bike? 😀
Hello Antonio. Thank you for taking the time to watch and ask your question. Both are appreciated. MBM has a good reputation in the biking community. While Brandon nor I have any direct experience with the company or their bikes, their customer feedback indicates people are happy with the product.
I wish I had a better answer for you, my friend, but we are limited on the bikes we are able to obtain for review. Again, thank you for watching, and have a great day.
@@GetOutArizona I'ts OK, I will buy Cube Nuroad FE 2023😎
Bought and upgraded to a sora.... Bike is reasonably satisfying for the price.... I would like you to guide me on how we check the tyre wear n tear
Hey Trik, thanks for watching and asking your question. I am pretty rough on my tires and push them to the absolute breaking point on the road and on the trail. That being said, I typically do not replace it until I start seeing the mesh material through the rubber of the tire. Is this the smart thing to do? Probably not, but that's how I roll, no pun intended. I always keep a spare set at my home so when replacement time rolls around, there is no waiting; I just get it done.
You could consult your local shop, though, to gain a second opinion that is equally qualified. Thanks again for watching, my friend. I hope this answer is helpful.
@@GetOutArizona thank you so much taking time for my doubt. The bontrager tires do not have any grip on it...... Even the local shop guy was clueless
@@tonienduro9956 Well, I can tell you this, I do not like Bontrager tires. I feel they are the worst. Give gator skins a try or even Maxxis for gravel/cyclocross.
@@GetOutArizona will upgrade after some more use..... Domane 2 cant accomodate 32 gravel tyre it seems,, rim brakes
Love the fact that this has rim brakes.....dying breed for sure...
Yes, you don't wee too many of them left. Thank you for watching, my friend.
Hey fellas, can you please compare the fx 3 to the gen 5 ds 3
Hi there and thanks fornthe review. Is this 1130 USD? Thanks and ride safe.
Thank you for asking your question. Yes, this is American dollars. We should start being more specific with the pricing. Thank you for watching, my friend.
@@GetOutArizona No problem at all and thank you very much. I appreciate you guys and he safe on the roads! 🙏
I think the Trek FX 2 or 3 hybrid bike is more likely to be an entry-level start to cycling!
Yes, these would both make great options as well for someone who is just getting into the sport. Thank you for watching and taking the time to leave your feedback.
@GetOutArizona I started out with the FX 3 8 months ago and put on 1000 miles so far... buy now I think I'm ready to ugrade to the Domane SL5!
@@mikebayless4268 that’s impressive my friend. I know plenty of people that don’t do 1000 miles in a year.
We did a review on the Domane Sl5 several weeks ago and just shot a comparison video with the Checkpoint SL5, which I own. The Domane SL5 will be my next purchase.
I would have gone for this bike if I didn’t already have an fx 2. Wanted something racier and more exciting, so I went for a specialized allez. Best choice imo
Hey Rocky, thanks for watching and sharing your feedback with us. I believe all three bikes have their merits and would suit the needs of anyone who would purchase them. You are correct, though; the Allez is a nice bike.
will size 47 fit a man with height of 5'7"?
Great question, and thank you for asking. I am a smidge under 5'11" and ride a 56cm. If you are 5'7", I would suggest riding a 52cm to start. Trek has a sizing chart on their website as well.
@@GetOutArizona Thank you!
Hi, I was watching the video and they almost made this bike look like "garbage" for not costing thousands of dollars. It's easy to comment on very expensive bikes and mockingly comment on aluminum frames and rim brakes. Unless someone is very serious about cycling, the vast majority of people will buy bikes around the US 1000 mark and be happy to do so. I live in New York and these are the ones you see on the street. Ask Tour de France winners who used rim brakes if they had "problems" with them...
We appreciate you taking the time to watch and leave feedback. Brandon and I both own aluminum-framed bikes with rim brakes, and we enjoy them quite a bit.
Seems like there's a disconnection on who this is for. This is a budget bike to me, if you can casually spend 1000 on a bike odds are you can spend more. You seem to be judging it as somebody with a much larger budget available like we can just get better. This is my first bike over 1000. Jesus h Christ bikes are fuckin expensive. Comparison is the thief of joy. Y'all seem to dog on but seem like your embarrassed to like it.
Avery, thank you for taking the time to watch our video and offer your feedback. Both are appreciated. I'll unpack your feedback a bit, and forgive me for being verbose.
You are correct; bikes are ridiculously priced these days, almost to the point of pricing out an entire segment of the community and those who would become a part of said community. Unfortunately, I do not see this changing, and that is tragic.
I think this bike is rad. I rode one the week after we made this video with a friend who eventually purchased one, and she couldn't be happier. If I had the extra cheddar, I would buy one and put a rack on the back, and the house is on the front because I'm that guy.
And lastly, we were not being judgmental of anyone. Brandon and I sometimes forget that our sense of humor and dialogue can sometimes be droll. It is not meant to be disparaging; we just grew up watching too much Monty Python.
Thanks again for watching, my friend. I hope you enjoy your Domane. Please keep us posted on how she's doing for you and adventure safely.
You always use to build up your arm muscles it weighs a ton
Ritchey Road Logic still has its rim brake version. And that's not a entry-level road bike.
You are correct. However, this is an exception and not the standard for the industry. I'm not saying that road brakes are not effective, nor am I saying that they do not have their place in the road biking community. But the current mantra, driven by the industry, is that hydraulic disc brakes are the way to go.
That being said, thank you for watching and adding to the conversation, my friend.
I say just spend the money and go for the 5
Haha, yes, I agree, but some need a budget-friendly option. 😉
wish covid didnt happen😭 inflation sucks
Amen to that. Thank you for watching.
I sleep a lot babble guys, boring video
Thank you for your feedback.
Cmon, two guys that give us content for free. Probably just starting out. Why be so mean?
I stopped watching when he said “ the most entry level” like i have more than 1k to burn
Yes, I understand. I went to walmart to look at bikes, then I stopped by my local bike shop where they sell trek. I was blown out by the price difference. Trek bikes are on a different level. But their prices are outrageous. Not even my friends honda Civic cost that much.
@@samochoa6733But a thousand dollar bike is just better. Big box store bikes are fine for riding in the neighborhood but they are often cheaply made and don't take much when it comes to wear and tear.
If 1k is a lot for you, then you really are not serious about getting into bicycling.
This bike here is cheaper because it has rim brakes which sadly a lot of bikes just don't have anymore. This bike will last a lifetime.....a $250 may last a lifetime but it will have more issues and just won't feel the same riding.
Don't get offended by the term entry level. Some guys buy 5k+ bikes and change them like they change their socks. Most commuters use the same bike for years.
These guys are not commuters. They ride more than just their own neighborhood....
What you think about "MBM Starlight" bike? 😀