All-New Trek Domane SLR 2016 – Exclusive First Look
Originally unveiled in 2012, Domane is Trek’s performance road platform for caliper and disc brake-equipped Endurance Race bikes. The original Domane heralded a revolution in road, demonstrating that comfortable is fast and instantly becoming a master of cobbles and rough roads. The new Domane SLR builds upon the award-winning IsoSpeed technology and takes it to the next level.
Adjustable Rear IsoSpeed
We have all seen Trek’s innovative IsoSpeed rear decoupler that isolates the movement of the seat tube from the rest of the frame, improving vertical compliance and comfort. The new Domane features a new generation of IsoSpeed that gives the rider the power to customize the system. This new technology is centered around the idea that riders come in many sizes and shapes, and employ the Domane in varied conditions and terrain all while seeking a preferred ride feel.
Front IsoSpeed
If you have ever ridden an IsoSpeed bike you’ve no doubt experienced the benefits of this technology for yourself. But while half of the body enjoyed increased comfort other parts were left wanting. The challenge for the development of the Front IsoSpeed was not dissimilar to the same the Trek engineers faced in 2010 when the development of the first generation of Domane began: Reduce vibration without sacrificing any efficiency or control. After extensive testing, they found that the solution for the front was not all that dissimilar to the rear.
IsoCore Handlebar
Smart technology is great, but only if you take into consideration the entire system. This is why Trek didn’t stop with the Front IsoSpeed but sought further solutions to improve comfort. The handlebar is literally one of the most critical contact points that influence a bikes comfort.
Constructed with a continuous inner layer of a specialized thermoplastic elastomer encased in proprietary OCLV, the IsoCore handlebar improves damping of high-frequency vibration with a reduction of vibration by 20% over standard carbon handlebars, according to Bontrager.
Disc brake option and additional tire clearance
Domane SLR is available in caliper and disc brake versions, both possessing enhanced tire clearance. Adding to the platform’s versatility, riders can now run 28c tires on Domane SLR and 32c tires on Domane SLR Disc while still meeting CPSC and ISO clearance standards. The caliper Domane SLR features lightweight direct mount brakes while the disc-equipped bikes utilize 12mm thru axles. Both versions include hidden fender mounts.
Love for details
Borrowing from one of the most lauded features of its aero brethren, Madone, Domane SLR is equipped with Domane Control Center, housing an internal Di2 battery just under the downtube water bottle cage.
Trek Domane SLR Prices, Geometry, Lineup
More information can be found on the Trek Website.
Text: Robin Schmitt / Trek Photo: Noah Haxel, Emily Maye, Graham Watson
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About the Author
Robin Schmitt
Robin is one of the two founders of 41 Publishing, a visionary and go-getter. While he now enjoys every second on the bike – whenever his busy schedule allows – he used to race against the clock at enduro events and a few Downhill World Cups. Besides that, Robin practises kung fu and Zen meditation, plays the cello, loves classic cars, travels abroad and still reviews numerous bikes himself. Progressive ideas, new projects and major challenges – Robin loves exploring undiscovered potential and getting to the bottom of new trends.
