there is a shortage of bike where i live and i went in many stores looking for a bike inside my budged and i finally found this one, thay had my size and everything, i feel so bless, lucky and happy to hear so many good comments about her (yes her), mine is black with gold.
NIce video and the bike looks great for a value road bike. I personally think Claris is fine for any rider who isn't competing. It's a sub 10kg weight, decent drivetrain and all most casual cyclists need. My only concern with the Trek is they don't manufacture themselves so frame quality is unknown. This isn't helped by Trek's site saying '100 series alpha aluminium' which really gives you no idea on what frame material and how it was manufactured. Was it mechanically formed, hydro-formed or even air-formed. I've noticed some brands who are basically importers keep aluminium frame information vague so I guess they can use different factories and even different materials in the same range, this indicates a importer trying to get the best possible frame prices and choosing different factories frequently. The brake calipers look unbranded. Really for me the Giant Contend is a far better option. Appears to be slightly cheaper over here in the UK with slightly better components and almost definitely a better frame. The rear cassette is 11-34t which I think is a better option making hills easier with a marginally lighter bike. At this price point it's amazing how similar bikes are though. However as Trek is basically an importer and Giant is an actual manufacturer I think the Contend delivers much better value in my opinion. Here in the UK I've seen frames that are quite low end, 7005 mechanically formed in more basic factories in Cambodia. Mechanically forming adds a level of pre-fatigue to the frame in comparison to hydro-formed and can still resemble a hydro-formed frame as long as the shaping isn't too ambitious. These have been used on established brands for their entry level models. Was there any indication on the bike's box or the bike itself where the bike was manufactured? I guess I'm still curious to know if Trek are still manufacturing in China (decent quality) or have moved to a lower quality location to save money, Vietnam, Cambodia, Bangladesh etc.
Depends on what you think is an entry level road bike. I ride 70s 80s and 90s road bikes under 100 dollars all over Kansas City with no problem. So This should get you to Vegas from KC pretty much effortlessly .
Great info - Thank you, James! Just purchased mine 7 minutes ago and hope I did the right choice! Two of my bikes being stolen within 3 months of time and this third one hope will "survive!" If someone suggests a nice bike locker I would be grateful for life ( website link would be a great bonus tho)! May God keep You all safe and fit!
Do you think that it would be logical to purchase this bike for daily commuting between home and college? (considering that it is sold for 600 euros where I live.)
I'm a 40 year old pretty out of shape (300 poundish) dude who hasn't ridden a bike in probably like 23 years. I want to get one to start biking for fitness but there's so many to choose from. I've found that this particular brand and model seem to be very highly regarded (allegedly great customer service and parts/build quality) I'm just not sure if it might be a bit too advanced or sophisitcated for someone out of shape who hasn't ridden since they were a kid. What do you guys think? Can unathletic normies acclimate to something like this or is this more of an enthusiast piece? Also are there weight limits for the carbon fork bikes? I don't really see such things listed on spec sheets. Maybe these models come with an expectation of an already more fit rider as opposed to an all aluminum frame? *Edit* Just found the specs. Looks like 275 pound max for rider and bike. Looks like I'm a bit over. Well quite a bit over. Bummer. Back to the drawing board.
Amazing review, James. Thanks for taking your time to share your thoughts with us. I just bought one online, I'll be updating my comment in near future, keep up the good work!!
@@Jamesthebikeguy Hey there James, love your reviews. After owning this Domane Al2 for 5 months, I feel the need to upgrade to keep up with my group rides. So I would like to hear your opinion on exchanging this Domane for a Trek Emonda ALR 5 2020 rim brakes version. I have already watched your review on the Emonda and it seems really nice. Do you think it's worth the upgrade or I should go for a carbon frame instead? Thanks in advance! : )
James I was looking at the new 2021 Trek domane al2 is this bike on the same level and does it have the same speed as a new 2021 specialized allez E5 great video by the way
the bikes seems to be good, now my question would be, can you upgrade components and is it worth it ? or should I just get a better one from the start ???
I gradually upgraded my bike over several months. I suppose it spreads the cost out. However with the gears, you also need to replace the shifters too as the old shifter might not be compatible. For example upgrading from 8 speed Claris to 11 speed Ultegra. You might save a bit if you can buy the gears and shifters together in a “group set” package. Surprisingly buying lighter wheels such as Campagnolo Zonda made the biggest difference , as most bikes come with heavy cheap wheels.
@@ozanerol3142 1019.99 , 1102.86 after new York state tax i got it in black wanted the domane al 2 but the parts on al 3 is much better my first road bike are you interested in this bicycle
@@notmenotme614 I wound up getting the al3 he said it had a better groupset it's black and siliver hope fully I can go the distance its not what I'm used to usually do everything on mountain bike but this is so light compared to them this is my first road bike what tires would you recommend for the future are the road bikes good for tubeless ?
I also got the three I was told its a much better groupset I dont know much about road bike my first but for some reason its comfortable I like the grips or the tape I ride mountain bike's allot it feels like its going to break but doesn't i was warned not to treat it like my stumpjumper I also have a breezer hardtail with ritchey accessories anyway what better way to distance yourself thanks from upstate New York good luck
What hop ups would you do on this bike? I just purchased a 58cm. Deff. the pedals so far. I kind alike not having disc brakes on the bike so far. Its much lighter without them. Thinking of changing to a better deralure set.
Just picked mine up (March 23, 2020). Looking forward to riding on levee trail in New Orleans. NIce bike path along levee from Audubon Zoo to Bonnie Carrie Spillway (about 30 miles) one way.
Jamesthebikeguy yeah coz I find it smoother and faster than the ordinary Claris RS200. In fact I have read road bikers with 8-speed claimed hollowtech is better
Should I get this (I'm 5'3) for my first bike or just keep saving my money for something else? Would just be getting into road cycling so should I get something like this and use it for a couple years and then get a much more expensive bike? I wanna get into racing at some point, so idk what to do.
Great video, would it be possible for you do the same kind of content with the entry level Spz Allez? I'm thinking about getting one road bike but I'm stuck between this two, thanks.
I’m looking for getting into road rides (I usually stick to trails and mountain biking) would this bike be good for like a entry level or first riders bike?
Hey Reginald this is a Great entry level road bike! I purchased mines last summer and bike has been great good for long distance and can move pretty good
I just purchased the 2022 version of this bike as a bike for indoor trainer use and as a monsoon bike. For the price it’s a great bike however the brakes are absolutely crap in fact dangerous in use. I am shocked that a respectable company like Trek can use such brakes on their bikes. The frame is designed in such a way that other Shimano brakes 105 upwards do not fit this bike!!!! I sorted out the issue by installing the Tektro R741 brakes. Come on Trek surely you can do better.
I am about to buy the Rim 2022 model with V Brakes, are you sure the Shimano 105 V Brakes are not tight? because I'm thinking of buying them for that bike. Thank you
I'm currently riding a hybrid (Reid, local aussie brand) with 9 spd alivio, mainly for commute and day rides. Would this bike be worth getting to try drops, go faster. Only concern is the 8spd claris vs my current 9spd. Or am I better off going like a sora/tiagra with the same domane frame as a next upgrade.
The emonda is an ALR, and the Domane is an AL. Two different grades of aluminum. A Checkpoint ALR and Emonda ALR are the same quality and will match in price.
Seems decent on a budget, but just looking at specs it seems like Giant's Contend is a higher value. The Domane's trademark feature would be IsoSpeed. I don't think I'd buy one without that, starting at probably the SL5. It also looks like your saddle is low.
I think this bikes advantage over the Giant Contend is it's tire clearance and the isospeed fork. It can take some decent tires for rough roads and that makes more of a difference than any frame technology can.
@@Jamesthebikeguy The AL2's max tire size is listed at 28. Should be apples to apples. Contend actually comes with tubless tires too, even better if we're talking comfort.
I just purchased this bike in the same color. Looks and feels great. I have yet to take it on a long ride. I plan to do my first century on this bike.
Sweet, enjoy it and good luck with the first Century. You can do it!
@@Jamesthebikeguy 🤙
How are you liking the bike? Considering buying for my first century
@@Jamesthebikeguy I would like to know what specialized has for competition ?
Great bike. I used it a lot for climbing. And of course down hill. It has not let me down. everything on this bike is great.
there is a shortage of bike where i live and i went in many stores looking for a bike inside my budged and i finally found this one, thay had my size and everything, i feel so bless, lucky and happy to hear so many good comments about her (yes her), mine is black with gold.
Hi Carlos, how much it cost and what year is?
I've just ordered Trek domane AL2 as my first bike :) Can not wait to get it in next few days :)
Awesome! Its a nice bike, enjoy
How is it?
NIce video and the bike looks great for a value road bike. I personally think Claris is fine for any rider who isn't competing. It's a sub 10kg weight, decent drivetrain and all most casual cyclists need. My only concern with the Trek is they don't manufacture themselves so frame quality is unknown. This isn't helped by Trek's site saying '100 series alpha aluminium' which really gives you no idea on what frame material and how it was manufactured. Was it mechanically formed, hydro-formed or even air-formed. I've noticed some brands who are basically importers keep aluminium frame information vague so I guess they can use different factories and even different materials in the same range, this indicates a importer trying to get the best possible frame prices and choosing different factories frequently. The brake calipers look unbranded. Really for me the Giant Contend is a far better option. Appears to be slightly cheaper over here in the UK with slightly better components and almost definitely a better frame. The rear cassette is 11-34t which I think is a better option making hills easier with a marginally lighter bike. At this price point it's amazing how similar bikes are though. However as Trek is basically an importer and Giant is an actual manufacturer I think the Contend delivers much better value in my opinion. Here in the UK I've seen frames that are quite low end, 7005 mechanically formed in more basic factories in Cambodia. Mechanically forming adds a level of pre-fatigue to the frame in comparison to hydro-formed and can still resemble a hydro-formed frame as long as the shaping isn't too ambitious. These have been used on established brands for their entry level models.
Was there any indication on the bike's box or the bike itself where the bike was manufactured? I guess I'm still curious to know if Trek are still manufacturing in China (decent quality) or have moved to a lower quality location to save money, Vietnam, Cambodia, Bangladesh etc.
I have one of these exact bikes, same color and everything. The frame says made in china. I love it.
Best review I saw for this bike thus far. I've been considering this one and I think I am going to go for it.
Did you ever pick this one up? if so, what are your thoughts?
Depends on what you think is an entry level road bike. I ride 70s 80s and 90s road bikes under 100 dollars all over Kansas City with no problem. So This should get you to Vegas from KC pretty much effortlessly .
Great info - Thank you, James! Just purchased mine 7 minutes ago and hope I did the right choice! Two of my bikes being stolen within 3 months of time and this third one hope will "survive!" If someone suggests a nice bike locker I would be grateful for life ( website link would be a great bonus tho)! May God keep You all safe and fit!
Have fun!
Do you think that it would be logical to purchase this bike for daily commuting between home and college? (considering that it is sold for 600 euros where I live.)
For sure. This would be a great fit for that
Guys, what is yours opinions?
Thanks for the vid. Purchased one yesterday. Two thumbs up!!!
Sweet, enjoy the riding
I'm a 40 year old pretty out of shape (300 poundish) dude who hasn't ridden a bike in probably like 23 years. I want to get one to start biking for fitness but there's so many to choose from. I've found that this particular brand and model seem to be very highly regarded (allegedly great customer service and parts/build quality) I'm just not sure if it might be a bit too advanced or sophisitcated for someone out of shape who hasn't ridden since they were a kid. What do you guys think? Can unathletic normies acclimate to something like this or is this more of an enthusiast piece? Also are there weight limits for the carbon fork bikes? I don't really see such things listed on spec sheets. Maybe these models come with an expectation of an already more fit rider as opposed to an all aluminum frame? *Edit* Just found the specs. Looks like 275 pound max for rider and bike. Looks like I'm a bit over. Well quite a bit over. Bummer. Back to the drawing board.
I just bought one for $550 at Scheels. It is brand new and will be fun in the spring.
Nice, have fun with it!
@@Jamesthebikeguy I deffinetly will :)
Amazing review, James. Thanks for taking your time to share your thoughts with us. I just bought one online, I'll be updating my comment in near future, keep up the good work!!
Nice, congrats on your new bike!
@@Jamesthebikeguy Hey there James, love your reviews. After owning this Domane Al2 for 5 months, I feel the need to upgrade to keep up with my group rides. So I would like to hear your opinion on exchanging this Domane for a Trek Emonda ALR 5 2020 rim brakes version. I have already watched your review on the Emonda and it seems really nice. Do you think it's worth the upgrade or I should go for a carbon frame instead? Thanks in advance! : )
Interested in Cars, Racing, and R/C Vehicles? Check out my 2nd Channel Jrs Gasoline Alley here: ruclips.net/channel/UCpRReJABfwDGgsfSTYiItUg
Since there's enough tire clearance, can you upsize the tires from 28c to 32c slick or semi slick tires?
James I was looking at the new 2021 Trek domane al2 is this bike on the same level and does it have the same speed as a new 2021 specialized allez E5 great video by the way
the bikes seems to be good, now my question would be, can you upgrade components and is it worth it ? or should I just get a better one from the start ???
What would you be upgrading?
I gradually upgraded my bike over several months. I suppose it spreads the cost out.
However with the gears, you also need to replace the shifters too as the old shifter might not be compatible. For example upgrading from 8 speed Claris to 11 speed Ultegra. You might save a bit if you can buy the gears and shifters together in a “group set” package.
Surprisingly buying lighter wheels such as Campagnolo Zonda made the biggest difference , as most bikes come with heavy cheap wheels.
Getting one 2020 going for a fitting today. Mountain bikes are cool but so heavy this was really good information keep up the good work
How much did you pay for the bike?
@@ozanerol3142 1019.99 , 1102.86 after new York state tax i got it in black wanted the domane al 2 but the parts on al 3 is much better my first road bike are you interested in this bicycle
You’ll certainly find a road bike easier to cycle on. They have less rolling resistance and seem more efficient
@@notmenotme614 I wound up getting the al3 he said it had a better groupset it's black and siliver hope fully I can go the distance its not what I'm used to usually do everything on mountain bike but this is so light compared to them this is my first road bike what tires would you recommend for the future are the road bikes good for tubeless ?
I also got the three I was told its a much better groupset I dont know much about road bike my first but for some reason its comfortable I like the grips or the tape I ride mountain bike's allot it feels like its going to break but doesn't i was warned not to treat it like my stumpjumper I also have a breezer hardtail with ritchey accessories anyway what better way to distance yourself thanks from upstate New York good luck
I own a Triban RC 500 ( Shimano Sora ) , is it worth buying this bike?
Thank you for this video. Could you please do another review after a few 100 km.
Thanks for watching, stay tuned.
What hop ups would you do on this bike? I just purchased a 58cm. Deff. the pedals so far. I kind alike not having disc brakes on the bike so far. Its much lighter without them. Thinking of changing to a better deralure set.
Wonderful 2+ years of experience 👍
Is this bike ok to ride on loose gravel. My ride is a mix of asphalt and small loose gravel road’s built for biking. I never had a road bike. Thanks
Just picked mine up (March 23, 2020). Looking forward to riding on levee trail in New Orleans. NIce bike path along levee from Audubon Zoo to Bonnie Carrie Spillway (about 30 miles) one way.
Have fun!
Very light and very good quality for the price
Yes indeed!
What is ur fastest speed while using this one? Or the average speed
I own this bike. Same color too... But I have changed the crankset to Shimano Claris Hollowtech
Solid upgrade, what made you decide to do it?
Jamesthebikeguy yeah coz I find it smoother and faster than the ordinary Claris RS200. In fact I have read road bikers with 8-speed claimed hollowtech is better
Thanks for the review, might get this soon!
You should!
Looking at getting this or an Emonda ALR 5. Any suggestions on the better bike and why. Thanks
Domane AL is an upright beginner bike. The Emonda ALR 5 is a mid-level performance bike.
Should I get this (I'm 5'3) for my first bike or just keep saving my money for something else? Would just be getting into road cycling so should I get something like this and use it for a couple years and then get a much more expensive bike? I wanna get into racing at some point, so idk what to do.
Nice road bike to start with for sure.
Tenho esse modelo há 3 anos. O sr sabe dizer exatamente qual caixa de direção devo comprar para essa bike?
It's a real nice bike how much is it
Great Road bike! it goes long distance shifts good and its fast thums up
Yes it does!
Great review, What do u think of the new 2021 Domane AL model? is it any better?
The 2021 with disc is sweet. (Lets not lie though, its just a checkpoint with slick tires)
Jamesthebikeguy Thanks James 🙏👍
Great video, would it be possible for you do the same kind of content with the entry level Spz Allez? I'm thinking about getting one road bike but I'm stuck between this two, thanks.
Sure, if I come across one I will!
@@Jamesthebikeguy thanks!
I’m looking for getting into road rides (I usually stick to trails and mountain biking) would this bike be good for like a entry level or first riders bike?
Hey Reginald this is a Great entry level road bike! I purchased mines last summer and bike has been great good for long distance and can move pretty good
Yes, definitely
James would this work for a gravel bike as well or...
Not with the rim brakes and skinny tires.
What would you choose between this and the lapierre audacio 100?
AL2 2021 would be better
Can I put Schwalbe Marathon Plus Reflex Tyres 700x35c along with fenders?
How does it stack up against the allez
very similiar
Does the rs200 fit on a 2022 trek marlin 5?
How much it cost??
Nice Trek Domane AL2 bike
Indeed!
Thanks for the helpful vid, picking mine up next week!
Hope you enjoy it!
Hi, my weight is 100 kg/220 pounds, wheels have 24 spoke each right? its enough for my weight? And whats tire size i can put there?
I mean max tire size which i i can put*
Good for high school trips from home and school?
Absolutely
Even if its a road bike im a teenager so in the morning I cycle on the path so I
go
over curbs is that ok?
Will be stolen 😂😂😅
I just purchased the 2022 version of this bike as a bike for indoor trainer use and as a monsoon bike. For the price it’s a great bike however the brakes are absolutely crap in fact dangerous in use. I am shocked that a respectable company like Trek can use such brakes on their bikes. The frame is designed in such a way that other Shimano brakes 105 upwards do not fit this bike!!!! I sorted out the issue by installing the Tektro R741 brakes. Come on Trek surely you can do better.
I am about to buy the Rim 2022 model with V Brakes, are you sure the Shimano 105 V Brakes are not tight? because I'm thinking of buying them for that bike. Thank you
I am looking for a trek road bike, Is there an superior version of this? With atleast Tiagra
They make the AL4 for 2021 that is Tiagra.
@@Jamesthebikeguy can i buy it online? And how much for that bike?
Is Caad Optimo a good option too?
Could be, I don't have any experience with them.
Just ordered the AL3...much difference anybody know??
Can you explain This model is possible to convert the rim brake to disc brake?
No you are not able to
Do you know what the widest tire is good?
32c
A
nyone know if the plastic ring on the back wheel is meant to come off? Don't know whether to take off mine!!
Take it off
Jamesthebikeguy thank you
In Colombia MY 2020 only costs $500! , is there any difference Vs the 2020 version ?. I think they’re selling the 2019 model.
2019 and 2020 are pretty similiar.
Will you still be in a lower position than a xc mtb
Not always.
HI..
Can i use 32c tires on this bike?
You would need the AL2 Disc to run tires that wide.
can u extend the saddle height?
Yes it can raise and lower
Order the 2021 version, coming in two weeks.
Awesome!
how is it?
@@Enice123 Really good. Everything's great, but the gear shifter which is a Shimano Claris is not as smooth as I expected.
Hi , what size frame Is It?
There a choice... 47 , 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, 60 and 62 cm.
@@notmenotme614 I meant what size Is the video's cycle
@@ajmainbhuiyan3412 he said 54 i think
Is it reliable?
As reliable as the sun rising from the east... But really, yes this is a pretty solid platform
very!
Probably as reliable as Honda
Patrick Mccluskey 🤣
@@patrickmccluskey2959 Honda is trash
Price?
Stop by your local Trek store.
Merida scultura 100 (2019) or Trek Domane Al 2 (2019) or Specialized Allez Red 54 (2018)?
The one that feels most comfortable to you when you test ride it.
I'm currently riding a hybrid (Reid, local aussie brand) with 9 spd alivio, mainly for commute and day rides. Would this bike be worth getting to try drops, go faster. Only concern is the 8spd claris vs my current 9spd. Or am I better off going like a sora/tiagra with the same domane frame as a next upgrade.
What about doing the Domane AL3?
@@Jamesthebikeguy doesn't look like they stock that in Australia. Looks like they stock the Checkpoint AL3 instead. Mechanical disc, with Sora groupo.
Can men ride it too?
Any one can
Can I put a kids trailer on my bike I have small children that love to come bike riding with me
Wait... when you jumble the word Emonda it can be spelled as Domane. LOL :D
And a Keen eye would see the original bike in this naming family is Madone, and it's the same letters too.
@@Jamesthebikeguy DAMN!! MIND = BLOWN = INTO = PIECES ;D
The Domane is going for 799. While the Emonda is going for 1249 at my lbs. is the Emonda that much of a better bike
The emonda is an ALR, and the Domane is an AL. Two different grades of aluminum. A Checkpoint ALR and Emonda ALR are the same quality and will match in price.
They are marketed for different uses. The Domane is built for long distance comfort while the top end Emonda models were built to be super lightweight
Seems decent on a budget, but just looking at specs it seems like Giant's Contend is a higher value.
The Domane's trademark feature would be IsoSpeed. I don't think I'd buy one without that, starting at probably the SL5.
It also looks like your saddle is low.
I think this bikes advantage over the Giant Contend is it's tire clearance and the isospeed fork. It can take some decent tires for rough roads and that makes more of a difference than any frame technology can.
@@Jamesthebikeguy The AL2's max tire size is listed at 28. Should be apples to apples.
Contend actually comes with tubless tires too, even better if we're talking comfort.
i like trek road bike, but no budget to buy huhuhuhu
Trimailovas like sempre 👍🚴 🇧🇷🇱🇹🏁
👍
Needs disk brakes and itd be a winner!
At this level/price it's pretty good. Takes about 1k to do the same thing with disc
I love my bike the color is magenta for women.
Nice color too!
Isn't it pronounced doe-main not doe-mon-ay?
It is pronounced how I said it. Check with your local Trek dealer or the various videos among the internet
Price?
Stop by your local bike shop
@@bretts5571 can you share me the link