trek domane sl 6 vs specialized roubaix

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Results have arrived, specialized roubaix vs. trek domane - tire clearance, tech, & options.

The Specialized Roubaix and the Trek Domane endurance road bikes are the benchmarks for comfort, performance, and tech. It's Future Shock vs. IsoSpeed. Let's learn which is right for you.

Written by: Bruce Lin

Published on: Jun 10, 2022

Posted in: Road

Imagine a road bike that can do it all. You can race, take on gran fondos, jump in fast group rides, and grind out your daily commute. If you're feeling daring, you can venture away from the pavement and explore rough gravel roads. If this is the riding you dream of, an endurance road bike might be just what you need. 

Endurance bikes were originally designed to tackle the cobbled classics, hard one-day pro races on Europe's roughest roads. They have relaxed geometry , upright riding positions, and stable handling, plus more compliance and wider tire clearance to reduce rider fatigue and improve performance on bumpy surfaces. 

The two undisputed kings of the endurance category are the Specialized Roubaix and the Trek Domane . If you're looking for an endurance bike, there's a good chance you're considering one or the other. Maybe that's why you're here! So how do you choose which is right for you? We'll explore the history, technology, features, race results, and even popularity to help you decide.

Specialized vs. Trek: History and tech

• Future shock vs. IsoSpeed
• Tire clearance  

On-bike storage

Bottom bracket standards, rim and disc brake options.

• Women's models

Race results

Final thoughts.

[button] Shop Roubaix [/button] | [button] Shop Domane [/button] | [button] Shop all road bikes [/button]

Roubaix (2004-2007)

The Specialized Roubaix debuted in 2004, and it has come to define the modern endurance bike genre. The Roubaix takes its name from Paris-Roubaix. Known as the "Hell of the North," Paris-Roubaix is a grueling spring classic that includes about 29 rough sectors of cobblestone roads in Northern France. Endurance bikes like the Specialized Roubaix were created to help the world's best riders tame the 'stones.

Robert Hines, the inventor of the Roubaix, felt that the bikes used in Paris-Roubaix were ill-suited for cobbled racing as well as general “real-world” riding. Road racing bikes were stiff with steep angles and super-short chainstays. This made them agile and fast for flying up mountains, but unstable over Roubaix's brutal cobbled sectors. Plus, on these bikes, riders were unable to fit wide tires, making them even harsher. With the Roubaix bike, Hines hoped to improve comfort after many hours in the saddle.

“The endurance position with higher bars and suspension built into the frame launched a whole new category of bike,” he said in an interview with The Pro's Closet in 2019 . “If you’re more comfortable, you’re going to be able to go faster and harder for longer.”

The “suspension” came from Specialized’s Zertz technology. Zertz inserts are elastomers inserted into the fork legs, seat stays, and seatpost that helped dampen vibration and increase comfort. The Roubaix was also capable of fitting larger tires than most road racing bikes (27-30mm), further increasing comfort over rough terrain. Tires of this size have since become the standard for endurance bikes.

The Roubaix has become the most dominant bike at Paris-Roubaix with seven wins to date. Some of the world’s best classics riders, such as Tom Boonen, Fabian Cancellara, and Peter Sagan, have won aboard a Roubaix.

There have now been six generations of the Roubaix. In some cases, previous-generation Roubaix bikes may have continued briefly after the release of a new model in entry-level Sport or Comp trims.

[button] Shop Roubaix [/button]

Roubaix SL2 (2008-2010)

Roubaix SL3 (2010-2012)

Roubaix SL4 (2012-2017)

Roubaix with Future Shock (2017-2019)

Roubaix (2020+)

Trek Domane

Domane (2012-2015)

Trek debuted its Domane in 2012 in the lead-up to the classics. The Specialized Roubaix was already entering its fourth generation and other manufacturers were catching on and producing bikes to compete. Trek worked extensively with world and Olympic champion Fabian Cancellara, one of the greatest classics riders in modern history, to develop the bike.

Before the release of the Domane, Trek’s flagship road bike was the Madone, named for a famed climb in Nice, France. The Domane name is an anagram of Madone, but it also means “the King’s Crown” in Latin. (Trek continued this anagram naming convention with the Emonda road bike.)

The Domane features relaxed endurance geometry similar to the Roubaix but it is offered in two fits — Endurance and Pro Endurance. (These are sometimes referred to as H3 and H1.5 geometry.) Endurance is the most common geometry and most Domanes are Endurance geometry unless otherwise noted.

Trek describes the Endurance geometry as stable but still race-oriented, with a taller headtube for better control, handling, and responsiveness. It’s tuned for the majority of riders, especially those looking to put in the long miles.

The Pro Endurance geometry is designed to meet the demands of riders who prefer an aggressive out-front position but still want predictable handling over rough roads. These Domanes will have shorter head tubes for a lower, more aggressive race position. Pro Endurance models are only offered through Trek’s Project One custom program, and only down to the 54cm frame size. They are very limited in the used marketplace and often only ridden by high-level and professional racers.

Since its introduction, the Domane has experienced race success at the Cobbled classics under Cancellara. It is now in its third generation.

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Second-generation Domane (2016-2019)

Third-generation Domane (2020-2022)

Future Shock vs. IsoSpeed

Specialized future shock.

The introduction of Future Shock on the 2017 Roubaix was a large departure from the simplicity of Zertz inserts, which are passive damping inserts with no moving parts. Specialized partnered with Formula 1 innovators, McLaren Applied Technologies, to design the new Future Shock. It uses a spring in the head tube that actively suspends the rider with 20mm of vertical travel.

Specialized chose to use a coil spring system because it can actively absorb the frequencies encountered on the road without adding excessive weight. Springs are also less complex and have less stiction than traditional suspension systems (e.g., an air fork on a mountain bike) and require less force to initiate their travel.

Because the Future Shock is positioned under the stem, rather than between the fork and frame (like a suspension fork on a mountain bike). When the front wheel encounters rough terrain, the entire bike moves up toward your hands rather than the wheel moving toward the frame in isolation. Specialized claims this provides comfort benefits without losing any handling or efficiency. The bike's wheels are held together rigidly by the frame and the wheelbase doesn’t change through the suspension's travel so handling is more predictable that way. 

The damping of the original Future Shock could be adjusted to suit different rider weights, terrain, and stiffness preferences. For the fifth-generation Roubaix, this requires disassembling the system, removing it from the head tube, and swapping the spring. This should be a fairly simple task for most novice mechanics with basic tools. The majority of fifth-generation Roubaixs come standard with the “hard” spring installed. “Medium” and “soft” springs are also available.

Future shock only suspends the front of the bike. At the rear, seatpost flex is the main source of comfort. Increasing the seatpost’s effective length enhances this so Future Shock Roubaixs have a seat clamp located 65mm lower than the top of the seat tube to provide optimal flex. The seat tube opening is flared above that to provide ample room for the post to move.

The Future Shock system is also in use on Specialized’s Diverge all-road bike, Ruby women’s endurance bike, and Sirrus fitness bike.

Note: Specialized issued a recall January 2019 for certain Future Shock headsets. Not all bikes from all model years are affected. Addressing the recall involves replacing the steerer tube collar to improve its resistance to stress corrosion cracking. All Future Shock bikes sold at The Pro’s Closet are inspected for this recall and serviced if needed.

The 2020 Roubaix introduced Future Shock 2.0 on the high-end of S-Works, Pro, and Expert builds. This adds a hydraulic damper to the system to further improve the suspension characteristics. It still utilizes a small coil spring, but the hydraulic damper improves compression and rebound damping, and it gives the rider an external dial to adjust damping on-the-fly. Turning the dial clockwise closes damping. This makes the Future Shock feel stiffer for sprinting (it does not fully lock-out). Turning it counter-clockwise opens damping to make it feel softer and more active on rough surfaces. There is also a more discrete looking shock boot under the stem.

Future Shock 2.0 tech only comes on the higher-end builds. All other 2020 Roubaixs like the Sport and Comp models come with a simplified Future Shock 1.5 that improves on the original but leaves out the hydraulic damping and external dial. Compared to the original Future Shock, Future Shock 1.5 uses a more progressive main spring, a new top-out spring, and a new bottom-out bumper. Extra booster springs can be added for riders looking to fine-tune the stiffness. Specialized’s official stance on retrofits is that the hydraulically damped Future Shock 2.0 cannot be retrofitted to previous generation Future Shock, or new Future Shock 1.5 Roubaix.

Trek IsoSpeed

This video shows IsoSpeed in action on the second generation Domane SLR:

The goal of Trek’s IsoSpeed is the maintain the stiffness, efficiency, and handling characteristics of a race-ready frame while introducing enough compliance to reduce the jarring and fatiguing effect of rough road surfaces. Trek sought to do this without the addition of a suspension system. 

With the second-generation Domane, Trek brought the IsoSpeed decoupler to the front of the bike. The decoupler was contained inside a rocker cup at the top of the headset. The steerer tube is joined to the rocker cup by a horizontal shaft and two sealed cartridge bearings, similar to the rear decoupler. This system allowed the steerer tube to flex fore and aft, providing additional compliance at the front of a bike. The rocker cup was designed to have zero lateral movement, allowing the bike to still steer and handle with precision.

The second-generation Domane also introduced a slider on the seat tube for high-end SLR models to adjust the compliance of the rear IsoSpeed decoupler to suit conditions and rider preferences. The slider worked by changing the amount of seat tube that is allowed to flex. Increasing the effective length of the seat tube increases compliance because a longer lever will flex more than a short lever. Moving the slider toward the bottom increases compliance for rough roads while moving it toward the top increases stiffness for race conditions. The less-expensive Domane SL maintained the original IsoSpeed decoupler without the adjustable slider.

Trek brought IsoSpeed technology over to the Boone cyclocross bike in 2014, the Procaliber cross country mountain bike in 2016, and the Madone Aero Road Bike in 2018.

For the high-end 2020 Domane SLR, Trek utilizes the Top Tube IsoSpeed design that has been refined on the latest Madone. While the original IsoSpeed decoupler relied on the entire seat tube to flex between a split top tube, Top Tube IsoSpeed splits the seat tube in two. The upper portion of the seat tube forms an L-shaped component. The bottom of this “L” extends forward into the top tube and is braced underneath it. The lower part of the seat tube is fixed in place, but the top L-shaped section is still able to flex fore and aft.

Trek claims that Top Tube IsoSpeed allows for more discrete tuning between frame stiffness and ride comfort than the original IsoSpeed design. Originally, because bigger frames had longer seat tubes, taller riders got a softer ride and shorter riders got a firmer one. (The slider on the second-generation Domane SLR could be used to help combat this.) With the latest IsoSpeed design, the seat tube section braced underneath the top tube controls the stiffness and flex. The length of this component can be varied independently of frame size which allows it to be engineered to provide a softer ride for smaller frame sizes. A new built-in damper inside the seat tube also helps control movement better than the previous design.

On the Domane SLR, the stiffness of Top Tube IsoSpeed is adjustable using a slider hidden underneath the top tube. The Front IsoSpeed design remains the same. Like the previous generation, less expensive Domane SL models will not have the adjustable slider.

Specialized Roubaix vs. Trek Domane: Tire clearance

Most endurance bikes are able to fit larger tires than most road racing bikes. In the last decade, rider preferences and tire trends have been pushing manufacturers to provide more and more tire clearance. Wider tires allow riders to run lower tire pressures to increase comfort. Lower tire pressures and the larger contact patch of a larger tire also provide more versatility for riding rough roads, dirt, and gravel. Early generation Roubaixs and Domanes are generally able to clear tires in the 27-30mm range. Clearance will vary and may depend on several factors such as tire manufacturer, rim width, and brake caliper clearance, so you may need to test fit first.

With the introduction of disc brake models (available on the 2013+ Roubaix and 2015+ Domane), tire clearance grew to 32mm, giving riders even more tire options.

For 2020, tire clearance has again grown for both bikes. The Roubaix is able to fit up to 33mm tires. It will come stock from the factory with 28mm tires.

[newsletter]

The 2020 Trek Domane is the first to feature Trek’s new Hidden Storage compartment. This is a hollow storage area in the down tube only available on 2020 carbon Domane frames. The down tube bottle cage mount is attached to a removable hatch that’s accessed with a small lever. Attached to that cover is a holder for a multi-tool, and inside the down tube is a nylon tool roll for holding spare tubes and tools. (This functions similarly to the S.W.A.T. box available on some Specialized mountain bikes.)

Bottom brackets are a contentious topic in the cycling world. Consumer attitudes have been pushing many manufacturers to move away from press-fit bottom bracket shells to traditional threaded bottom brackets. If you are particular about what type of bottom bracket your bike uses, you may have to look for specific model years.

The Specialized Roubaix used the common BSA threaded (a.k.a. English) bottom bracket standard until the forth (SL4) generation. From there it transitioned to Specialized’s OSBB bottom bracket standard. OSBB stands for “oversized bottom bracket” and encompasses various press-fit standards from BB30 to PF30 depending on the frame. This has been the standard for Specialized’s high-end models for the 2012-2017 model years. In 2017 Specialized began transitioning the Roubaix and other models back to traditional BSA threaded bottom brackets. For the fifth-generation Roubaix, various models came with either an OSBB and BSA bottom bracket shell. Frames still using OSBB had Praxis Works threaded conversion bottom brackets installed instead of standard press-fit bottom brackets to increase reliability. For 2020, all Roubaix models are now BSA threaded.

The Trek Domane has used Trek’s BB90 press-fit bottom bracket standard since its inception. The new third-generation Domane, however, has been built around the new T47 threaded bottom bracket standard. T47 is a larger version of traditional BSA threaded bottom bracket shell that claims to increase stiffness and crankset compatibility.

If you’re a rim brake connoisseur interested in a Roubaix or Domane, purchasing used or “new old stock” is going to be your only option. Disc brakes have taken over as standard for both bikes because of the increased stopping power and tire clearance.

The Roubaix was available with rim brakes only from 2002 to 2012. The first disc brake model was introduced for the 2013 model year and Specialized offered both rim and disc options until 2017. Rim brake Roubaixs do exist from 2018 but were sold as “pro-only” variants supplied to the Bora-Hansgrohe and Quick-Step Floors race teams. These teams chose to stay on rim brake in 2018 for faster wheel changes in case of tire punctures. These bikes are rare will be very hard to come by.

Trek offered the Domane with rim brakes from 2013 to 2019. The first disc brake version wasn’t introduced until the 2015 model year. From 2020 onward, the new generation Domane will only be available with disc brakes.

Women’s models

Specialized and Trek have both historically offered women’s variants of the Roubaix and the Domane. The women’s Roubaix was called the Ruby. It used different geometry and touchpoints intended to suit the proportions of female riders. Trek offered WSD (Women’s Specific Design) versions of the Domane which also adjusted geometry and touchpoints.

Over the years, data gathered from sales, bike fitters, and testing have shown that many women’s bike fits don’t deviate far from men’s fits. As a result, both Specialized and Trek now offer bikes with identical have now transitioned to unisex geometry for the Roubaix and Domane. The women’s specific Specialized Ruby and Domane WSD are not available after 2019. Women’s specific models will still be offered by Specialized, with only the touchpoints altered. Both bikes are offered in large size ranges to accommodate more riders.

Both the Roubaix and Domane have experienced success at the cobbled classics. This is the type of racing that inspired these designs. Listed below are the winners riding either the Roubaix or Domane at major cobbled races in the last 10 years. Italy's Strade Bianche has also been included because its long gravel sectors are similar to the types of roads recreational endurance riders might seek out.

Paris-Roubaix 2019 | Philippe Gilbert - Roubaix 2018 | Peter Sagan - Roubaix 2014 | Niki Terpstra - Roubaix 2013 | Fabian Cancellara - Domane 2012 | Tom Boonen - Roubaix 2010 | Fabian Cancellara - Roubaix

Tour of Flanders 2014 | Fabian Cancellara - Domane 2013 | Fabian Cancellara - Domane 2012 | Tom Boonen - Roubaix

Gent-Wevelgem 2016 | Peter Sagan - Roubaix 2012 | Tom Boonen - Roubaix

E3 2013 | Fabian Cancellara - Domane 2012 | Tom Boonen - Roubaix

Strade Bianche 2016 | Fabian Cancellara - Domane 2012 | Fabian Cancellara - Domane

Over the last decade, the Roubaix has achieved nine major wins to the Domane’s six. Keep in mind, however, that list only shows wins and does not factor in podiums or any other results to create a more detailed and nuanced picture. For example, in the 2019 Paris-Roubaix, the Specialized Roubaix achieved the amazing feat of having five finish in the top 10.

There are also many cases of pro riders choosing standard race bikes in these classics. Several riders have won Flanders, Gent-Wevelgem, and E3 on the Specialized Tarmac. Bike choice often comes down to personal preference, and many pros may choose ultimate efficiency over comfort. As we all know, pros are fitter and tougher than the average rider, so don't assume you should always have the same gear that they do.

For the average rider, pro racing may have little application to everyday riding. Pros are exceptionally fast and, of course, their physical talents make the biggest difference in results. Note that Cancellara and Boonen feature heavily on this list. They were the kings of the classics and likely could have won on any bike.

Ultimately, this should not be taken as definitive evidence that any bike is superior to another. But professional racing does show how products perform at the absolute limit. This can be powerful for influencing fans and inspiring brand loyalty. It is not uncommon for particular brands to become popular due to successful pro riders, as you will see in the next section.

Because The Pro’s Closet is the world leader in used bikes, we have substantial data about what bikes sell well. I dug into our road sales for the last 12 months and compared how many Roubaix bikes we sold compared to the Domane. The two are our top-selling endurance bikes and also the top-selling bikes of any type from each brand. We have a fairly similar stock of both bikes, and inventory has yet to be depleted, so sales can be fairly compared to determine popularity among our customers.

I also polled riders in our shop to see which bike they preferred between the two. Our employees all love cycling, obsess over bikes, and have access to a huge selection of products. They are knowledgeable and opinionated. We had over 60 respondents to this poll and many explained why they would pick one over the other.

The charts below show the results:

Individual preference is a huge driver behind which bike a rider prefers. In our shop poll, I asked why people choose one over the other. Below are some of their answers.

Specialized Roubaix

• I like the paint and looks better.
• I like the active feel of Future Shock. It’s really game-changing on rough roads. No other bike feels like this. The Adjustability of Future Shock 2.0 is fantastic.
• It will likely have slightly better resale (see our article about resale ).
• It has won Paris-Roubaix more than any other bike.
• Peter Sagan rides one.
• It’s not a Trek.
• I like the muted, smooth, efficient feel of IsoSpeed. I don’t want my bike to feel suspended and active like Future Shock. IsoSpeed is simpler and there are fewer moving parts to worry about.
• The new integrated toolbox is much cleaner looking and better designed.
• Huge tire clearance.
• Fabian Cancellara rode it.
• It’s not a Specialized.

As you can tell from our shop poll, looks and brand loyalty play a large part in buying decisions. Maybe you already have made up your mind, but setting loyalties aside, the matchup between the  Specialized Roubaix  and  Trek Domane  is a tough one to call.

In my estimation, the two tech factors that should play the largest role in your decision are Future Shock vs. IsoSpeed and tire clearance. Future Shock and IsoSpeed have very different feels when riding on the road. The difference can be described as “active” vs. “passive.” Future Shock is noticeable in how it is constantly moving to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road. IsoSpeed sits more in the background, muting vibration. Some riders will prefer one ride feel or tech concept more than the other. Also, note that older Roubaix bikes (pre-2018) using Zertz inserts have a less muted feel than the Domane.

When shopping for road bikes on The Pro’s Closet, there is a handy compare tool that allows you to look at three bikes side-by-side. This allows you to compare things like geometry, weight, component spec, and price. If you have any questions, our expert Ride Guides can help you find your next endurance bike.

If you want to fit larger than 33mm tires for riding dirt and gravel, the Domane is the obvious choice. For me, personally, that is the one factor that tips the scale in the Domane’s favor. You might not need tires larger than 33mm. If so, consider the other differences, and rest assured that both bikes are fantastic options.

Are you a Roubaix or Domane fan? A Future Shock or IsoSpeed fan? Or is there a different option out there you think is even better? Let us know in the comments!

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2024 Specialized Roubaix vs Trek Domane

In this article, our bicycle authority Alex Lee compares the Specialized Roubaix and Trek Domane, comparing the variant, features, technologies and pricing.

In this comparison, I’ll dissect two popular bike models; the Specialized Roubaix vs Trek Domane .

I’ll compare their lineups, bike specifications, and suggested retail prices in USD, then discuss the carbon fiber technology ( Specialized FACT and Trek OCLV ) and frameset technologies.

The goal is to give you a better understanding of Specialized Roubaix and Trek Domane to help in your decision-making.

Specialized Roubaix

The Specialized Roubaix is an endurance bike that got its name from the hardest one-day bike race ; the Paris-Roubaix. It has a slightly relaxed frame geometry and wider tire clearance compared to the Tarmac.

Specialized sponsored teams will ride this model for the race instead of their usual Tarmac for its Future Shock suspension system. This technology helps make riding more comfortable when the pros ride across rough cobblestones at 30mph.

There are six models in the Specialized Roubaix lineup based on its groupset setup. It’s also available in S-Works frameset only.

Specialized Roubaix vs others

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Head to Head: Specialized Tarmac SL7 vs Roubaix

Trek Domane

Specialized vs trek carbon fiber, specialized fact carbon.

Specialized FACT (Functional Advanced Composite Technology) is an advanced carbon fiber technology used in high-performance Specialized bicycles. It offers a lightweight yet strong frame construction with precise carbon layup, resulting in optimal strength-to-weight ratio and improved ride quality. 

FACT carbon frames are engineered to efficiently transfer power, absorb road vibrations, and provide a comfortable riding experience. With continuous innovation and refinement, FACT Carbon demonstrates Specialized’s commitment to delivering top-notch performance and enhancing the overall cycling experience.

The carbon is available in three grades. The choice between FACT 12r , 11r , or 10r carbon depends on the bike model, your preferences, riding style, and budget.

• Specialized FACT 12r Carbon is the highest-grade carbon used by Specialized. Bikes (S-Works models) with frames made from FACT 12r carbon are the lightest and stiffest in the Specialized line-up . These frames are manufactured using the most advanced techniques and materials.
• Specialized FACT 11r Carbon used to be the highest-grade carbon until the S-Works Tarmac (SL5). Today, it’s the highest-grade carbon for the S-Works Roubaix.
• Specialized FACT 10r Carbon is two steps below 12r in the Specialized carbon hierarchy. While it doesn’t provide quite the same level of weight savings and stiffness as 12r, 10r frames are still very light and stiff, providing a high level of performance. FACT 10r carbon is used in all non S-Works models and is ideal for riders who want a balance of performance and value.

Trek OCLV carbon

The OCLV (Optimum Compaction, Low Void) carbon is a proprietary carbon fiber manufacturing technology developed by Trek.

• Optimum Compaction refers to the heat and pressure applied during the curing process to squeeze out excess resin and ensure that the carbon layers are compacted to the optimal density.
• Low Void refers to the goal of reducing microscopic air pockets or voids that can occur in the carbon fiber and create weaknesses.

One of the key advantages of OCLV carbon is its ability to achieve an optimal balance between stiffness, strength, and weight. Trek engineers carefully tune the carbon layup and utilize varying modulus carbon fibers to create stiff frames in certain areas to maximize power transfer while maintaining compliance in other areas to enhance comfort and ride quality.

The OCLV carbon is available in 800 and 500 series.

• OCLV 800 is the highest-grade carbon fiber used by Trek. The carbon modulus is higher in OCLV 800, making it stiffer and lighter. The manufacturing process is more refined, using more advanced carbon and resins, leading to a bike frame that provides top performance levels for stiffness, weight, and strength. OCLV 800 is used in all models with SLR .
• OCLV 500 is a lower-grade carbon but still offers a high level of performance. It has a slightly lower carbon modulus, meaning it’s a bit less stiff and heavier than OCLV 800. OCLV 800 is used in all models with SL .

It’s worth noting that the different OCLV grades don’t only refer to the material itself, but also to the manufacturing techniques used to form the carbon fiber into bike frames. Higher-grade carbon requires more precise manufacturing techniques to take full advantage of its superior material properties.

Frameset technologies and innovations

Specialized Roubaix and Trek Domane framesets incorporate advanced technologies to enhance their bikes’ performance and ride characteristics.

Here’s an overview of the technologies used in each bike model.

Where to buy

Specialized shops.

• Specialized online shops . Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, Slovakia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, United Kingdom, United States
• Specialized retailers . Use this tool to find your nearest Specialized retailers.
• Trek online shops . Australia, Austria, Canada, Germany, Netherlands, United Kingdom, United States
• Trek retailers . Use this tool to find your nearest Trek retailers.

Alex Lee is the founder and editor-at-large of Mr. Mamil. Coming from a professional engineering background, he breaks down technical cycling nuances into an easy-to-understand and digestible format here.

He has been riding road bikes actively for the past 12 years and started racing competitively in the senior category during the summer recently.

Mr. Mamil's content is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The content is not a substitute for official or professional advice. Please do your own due diligence.

Mr. Mamil participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. We also participate in various other affiliate programs, and at times we earn a commission through purchases made through links on this website.

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Specialized Roubaix vs. Trek Domane: Clash of the endurance bike titans

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

When it comes to endurance road bikes, there exist two outright titans of the segment: the Specialized Roubaix and the Trek Domane SLR . Specialized arguably created the segment when it launched the first Roubaix in 2004, and although Trek followed closely afterward with the Pilot, it wasn’t until the company launched the Domane in 2012 that it could really go head-to-head. Ever since, the two bikes have been locked in a battle for sales supremacy.

Endurance road bikes are all about comfort and confidence, and the latest versions of the Roubaix and Domane are unquestionably the most progressive examples either company has put forward to date. Both feature new — and truly legitimate — pavement-specific suspension technologies designed to smooth out rough roads, powerful disc brakes, stable handling with back-friendly fits, and clearance for big, cushy tires.

The Roubaix and Domane are very similar, but they differ greatly on the road — and in this hotly contested market, there can be only one winner.

The contenders

Specialized introduced the first Roubaix more than ten years ago, and in hindsight, that debut was little more than a toned-down race bike. The handling was slightly more stable, the ride quality smoother and more composed, the rider position more upright and relaxed. Zertz elastomeric inserts at the seatstays and fork blades supposedly helped attenuate road vibration (although it was highly debatable whether they ever worked), but the tires were still just 23mm wide.

That original Roubaix may not pass the sniff test for what an endurance road bike should be in modern terms, but it had a massive impact on the market back then. Whereas virtually every mainstream road bike at the time simply mimicked the look, feel, and fit of full-blown racing bikes, the Roubaix marked the first time a major brand took more of an everyday-rider approach instead of forcing everyone to ride bikes that didn’t make sense for what they were doing.

More than a decade later, the new Roubaix still holds rider comfort at the top of its design priorities, but it bears little resemblance to its grandfather.

Rider comfort is still very much at the top of the bike’s list of design requirements, but in place of those squishy Zertz inserts is the far more radical FutureShock coil-spring short-travel suspension cartridge up front, paired to a novel approach to a traditional solution out back.

Unquestionably the most intriguing aspect of the Roubaix’s design, FutureShock offers up 20mm of movement via a set of telescoping tubes, a pair of simple steel coil springs, and low-friction roller bearings — a concept very similar to Cannondale’s earliest Headshok designs. But whereas a conventional suspension fork moves the front wheel up and down below the frame, Specialized positions FutureShock above the head tube; the front wheel stays put while the bar and stem move up and down.

According to Specialized, conventional suspension forks are designed for bigger impacts. FutureShock, however, is aimed more at reducing vibration and protecting the rider’s upper body from fatigue over longer rides.

At the opposite end, the new Roubaix is more straightforward.

Seatpost flex is one of the primary sources of rider comfort while sitting in the saddle, and bike designers have long understood that decreasing the seatpost’s diameter and increasing its effective length can enhance that effect. As such, the new Roubaix’s seatpost collar is now 65mm lower than usual — well below the seatstays, in fact — and the seat tube opening is flared above that to provide room for the post to move. In addition, the Specialized CG-R carbon fiber seatpost incorporates an unusual kink up top that promises even more movement, and while the company could have gone further with a more undersized seatpost diameter (like Cannondale and others), the 27.2mm size is the smallest option that still allows for easy replacement as needed.

Trek’s latest Domane SLR endurance platform presents a very different approach to the same issue.

On any bike, it’s not just the seatpost that flexes when a rider hits a bump; the entire seat tube bends like a diving board. Frame designers — particularly those working with carbon fiber — have long attempted to enhance that movement without compromising other aspects of a frame’s performance.

With the Domane SLR, Trek incorporates the groundbreaking IsoSpeed “decoupler” that was first seen on the original Domane, launched in 2012. A mechanical pivot at the intersection of the top tube and seat tube separates those two elements from each other (hence the “decoupler” moniker). This allows the seat tube to flex much more than usual when hitting bumps, as it no longer is constrained by the top tube or seatstays, yet it also keeps the frame from flexing in ways you don’t want it to.

This latest version ups the ante by offering user-adjustable ride stiffness, tunable with a handy vertical slider that effectively changes the length of that diving board by altering the fulcrum point — just like what real-life competitive divers do, in fact.

The effectiveness of IsoSpeed has rarely been disputed, but earlier Domanes were criticized for delivering an unbalanced ride with the front end decidedly less cushy than the rear. The new Domane SLR, however, now incorporates a Front IsoSpeed mechanism to match. Here, the upper headset bearings sit in a pivoting cradle instead of the usual fixed seat, allowing the steerer tube to flex more than usual when hitting bumps. And just like with the rear IsoSpeed setup, the isolated two-dimensional movement on Front IsoSpeed promises to limit the undesirable out-of-plane movement that can yield unpredictable handling.

Otherwise, the new Roubaix and Domane SLR are quite similar to each other.

Typical for the segment, the geometry on both bikes features mellower handling and more upright riding positions relative to full-blown race bikes: the head tube angles are slacker, the front ends are taller, the wheelbases are longer, and the bottom brackets are lower, all of which prioritize stability and confidence over agility.

Also standard on both the Domane SLR and Roubaix are flat-mount disc brakes , 12mm-diameter thru-axles, and room for tires up to 32mm-wide (the Roubaix is disc-only, but the Domane SLR is also offered with rim brakes). A little extra practicality is on tap for the Trek with its hidden fender mounts; the Roubaix incorporates fittings for Specialized’s optional SWAT storage box down by the bottom bracket.

Carbon fiber construction keeps the frame and fork weights similar for both, too. Trek claims an official weight of 2,030g for its top-end 56cm Domane SLR Disc model, including the frame, fork, headset, integrated seat mast topper, front and rear IsoSpeed units, and all associated hardware. Specialized claims 1,975g for a 56cm Roubaix under similar conditions (and including the FutureShock cartridge).

For this head-to-head review, I rode both bikes for an unusually long period as compared to typical bike tests — 16 months for the Domane, five months for the Roubaix. I tackled a wide range of both paved and unpaved surfaces throughout, and also sampled a collection of wheels, tires, and saddles on both machines to get as well-rounded an opinion of their respective characters as possible.

It’s also worth noting at this point that I’m not comparing specific models here, but rather the performance of each platform in general. Both bikes are offered in a wide range of build kits and multiple grades of carbon fiber, and while the Domane SLR tends to be slightly more expensive for a given spec, they’re close enough to be considered direct competitors.

On paper, these bikes target the exact same type of rider and promise similar performance benefits. But in the end, they couldn’t be much more distinct.

The same, but different

The coil-spring front suspension on the Roubaix is easily the most polarizing feature of either bike so it makes sense to discuss that first. Say what you will about the FutureShock’s aesthetics, but in terms of function, it works far better than one might expect — myself included.

Coming from a mountain-bike background, I initially questioned Specialized’s decision to omit any sort of damping mechanism in the FutureShock design. But in fairness, it’s precisely that approach that allows the Roubaix front end to be so effective at protecting your hands from vibration. FutureShock isn’t so much a way to absorb individual bumps as it is a filter for the road buzz that can be so disruptive on longer rides. Provided you take the time to select the right spring for your weight and riding style — there are three different spring rates available — your hands essentially float in the sweet spot of the spring’s travel range while the front of the bike busily follows the contours of the road beneath you.

FutureShock isn’t just about comfort, either; there’s also a traction benefit, which I happily exploited while racing the mixed-surface Boulder Roubaix race earlier this year, where tires tend to skitter through the many loose-over-hardpack dirt turns that punctuate that course, and washboard sections make it hard to keep the front end on the ground. With FutureShock, I was able to push down harder on the front end than I normally would have, and the tire stayed more confidently planted for faster cornering and more effective speed control.

That said, the lack of damping can feel clunky on bigger bumps, and with such stiction-free movement, the bars are constantly moving up and down to some degree, especially in out-the-saddle sprints and climbs. How disruptive you find that movement will depend on your preferences, but there’s no way to eliminate it completely, even with the stiffest spring option.

There’s also no getting around the FutureShock’s ungainly appearance. Effective or not, it certainly challenges widely accepted notions of how an elegant, high-end road bike should look.

Trek drew plenty of criticism with the original Domane for its unbalanced ride quality: the rear end was pillowy smooth, but the front end was comparatively harsh. With the Roubaix, it’s the exact opposite. FutureShock is incredibly effective on vibration, but less so on individual bumps. The extended seatpost, meanwhile, works better on unexpected impacts, but feels considerably stiffer overall.

The effectiveness of the flexing CG-R seatpost head is also dependent on the amount of saddle setback and rider weight: heavier riders and/or riders running more saddle setback will notice some benefit, but lighter riders who ride with their saddles further forward likely won’t be able to tell the difference between the CG-R and a conventional carbon seatpost.

In comparison, the Domane SLR is far more balanced. Front IsoSpeed rides firmer than the FutureShock cartridge on the Roubaix: the latter eradicating vibration almost completely; the former behaving more like a filter that removes the harshness from the road surface. Nevertheless, it’s still very effective, and offers a vastly smoother ride than what the previous-generation Domane front end once offered. To put it in automotive terms, FutureShock is like an old Cadillac; Front IsoSpeed is more akin to a well-tuned German suspension.

Meanwhile, I continue to be in awe of how well IsoSpeed works out back, and the adjustable version only improves it further still. Whereas the rear end of the Roubaix is still occasionally jarring and buzzy, the tail end of the Domane SLR varies from eerily smooth to firm-yet-comfy, depending on where you place the slider. The system does bob more under power than what Specialized uses on the Roubaix, but that softer feel also leaves you feeling fresher after a long day.

As a bonus, Trek has done a great job of integrating both IsoSpeed units into the Domane SLR frame. They’re nearly invisible from a distance, and in profile, there’s almost nothing in the Domane SLR’s shape to suggest that there’s anything unusual baked into the chassis.

Ride comfort isn’t the only thing that matters when it comes to endurance road bikes, though, and while the two bikes once again share plenty of character traits, there are still notable differences.

Trek has achieved the once-dichotomous performance characteristics that bicycle frame makers have sought for ages: excellent stiffness where you want it; copious amounts of give elsewhere. The front end is rock-solid when climbing or sprinting out of the saddle (steerer tube flex notwithstanding), and that huge main triangle yields little when mashing the pedals.

Meanwhile, the Roubaix, with its more slender and svelte frame construction, feels slightly less stout, but arguably livelier beneath you — less muscle, more personality.

Nevertheless, Trek may have strayed too far toward the stability end of the spectrum when it comes to the Domane SLR’s handling.

By nature, endurance bikes are built to lend their riders more confidence while on the road (or dirt). And while the Roubaix’s bottom bracket is already lower to the ground than what you’d normally find on a race bike, the Domane SLR is practically scraping the asphalt with a full 80mm of drop relative to the axles (70mm is more common on road bikes). Likewise, the Roubaix geometry also features shorter chainstays and shorter wheelbases across the board, as well as longer trail dimensions.

https://velo.outsideonline.com/2011/02/the-geometry-of-bike-handling/

As a result, the Domane SLR is stable almost to a fault, lending heaps of rider confidence when it comes to staying upright on the straight-and-narrow, but feeling less willing to snake its way through twisty stretches of road. The Roubaix is still steady in its demeanor, but not as extreme in its approach, requiring a less deliberate lean and less countersteering to hit your apexes. It’s nimbler through the corners, feels more eager to snake its way down through fast and twisty canyons, and generally seems more playful overall as compared to the sleepier Domane SLR.

Bits and baubles

Elsewhere, it’s more a question of subtle quirks and novel features when it comes to distinguishing between the Domane SLR and the Roubaix.

Both bikes are approved for tires up to 32mm-wide, but only Trek takes full advantage of that clearance from the factory. Depending on the model, Specialized equips each Roubaix model with 26mm or 28mm-wide tires instead, arguing that it’s a more appropriate size for the paved surfaces on which most Roubaix riders are expected to ride. Indeed, this contributes somewhat to the Roubaix’s spritelier personality straight of the box when riding on the road, but at the expense of multi-surface capability.

Specialized’s tire size argument holds some merit, but switching to 32mm-wide tires still substantially expands the comfort envelope in terms of what the Roubaix can handle. Given the minimal impact in terms of weight and rolling resistance, it’s a bit disappointing that Specialized decided against diving right into the high-volume pool straight from the factory, especially given the fact that the company obviously had no qualms building the entire bike around the FutureShock suspension unit.

CyclingTips Podcast, Episode 9: Rethinking road bike tire sizes and pressures

The Domane also has the edge in terms of all-weather capability with its discreetly integrated fender mounts, which still leave room for those meaty 32mm-wide treads. Curiously, no fender mounts are included on the Roubaix at all.

Specialized does incorporate mounts down by the bottom bracket for the handy SWAT storage box, however — a tidy plastic container with enough room for a spare tube, an inflator cartridge and head, a tire lever, and a multi-tool. It’s more an issue of aesthetics and convenience (cue the anti-saddle bag crowd), but neat to have nonetheless.

I wouldn’t normally go into depth on bottom brackets when comparing two bikes, but given the proliferation of press-fit systems — and the annoying creaking that often goes with them — it’s worth mentioning that Specialized has the upper hand here.

On the Domane SLR, Trek uses its long-standing BB90 system , which features a 90mm-wide bottom bracket shell with cartridge bearings that press into recesses that are molded directly into the carbon fiber structure. From an engineering standpoint, BB90 makes a lot of sense: it’s always better to space bearings further apart on a rotating shaft, there’s more room for bigger frame tubes and broader chainstay spacing for extra tire clearance, and with no additional cups required, it saves a decent amount of weight.

But those bearing seats can loosen over time, and while Trek offers slightly oversized bearings to fit in those situations, no other aftermarket solutions exist. Meanwhile, Specialized has reversed course from recent years, outfitting every new Roubaix (save for the top-end S-Works version) with a conventional threaded shell . It’s a few grams heavier, but far easier to service at home, and offers more aftermarket options and greater compatibility with different crankset formats.

Unfortunately, that advantage is negated by the Roubaix’s woefully clumsy headset adjustment.

Instead of the usual single preload bearing and headset cap sitting atop the steerer tube, a pair of grub screws sit on either side of the upper headset cover. The lower ones adjust the bearing preload, and the upper ones are tightened on top of those to lock the setting in place — in theory, not unlike how an old threaded headsets work.

In reality, though, having just two points of contact (instead of the fully circumferential one you would normally get by evenly pushing the stem down on top of the upper headset cover) makes it tricky to get a balanced adjustment. Tightening the upper set screws on top of those can also add extra unwanted preload, and there’s no way to directly counter-rotate the lower and upper set screws against each other; thread-retaining compound is a must.

As a result, I found myself on more than one occasion with a headset that was either tighter than I ideally wanted, or one that refused to stay tight. In general, the design feels disappointingly unfinished and crude, to the point where it arguably should never have left the engineer’s computer.

Decisions, decisions

Taking everything into consideration, then, which one would I choose?

Specialized deserves a lot of credit for incorporating something as radical as FutureShock on to its highest-volume road family. It’s undoubtedly polarizing, but it also works. That said, it also has a few rough edges, the ride quality of the rear end can’t keep up, and there are a few too many curious spec issues to ignore.

Had Specialized addressed all of this before the bike’s release, it might have been a closer fight. But as is, the Domane SLR’s ride quality is more balanced, it feels more refined and polished overall, it includes fender mounts for year-round usability, and at least in my opinion, its more cohesive design just flat-out looks better.

For me, my money is on the Domane SLR.

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Specialized vs Trek Road Bikes: My Comparison Guide

So you’re interested in comparing the road bike ranges of Trek and Specialized, huh?

Well, you’ve come to the right… oh wait, you’re not?

No matter. I’m going to write about it anyway.

I’m interested and that’s all that matters (and you may find it useful, entertaining, a useful sleep aid). Onward!

This post contains affiliate links. If you click and buy something, I may get a commission.

Why Specialized and Trek For This Special Comparison, Mont?

Well, I’ve ridden a Trek carbon road bike for these past (nearly) six years and I’ve been very happy with it. I’d certainly consider buying another one.

We’ll get onto this, but one of the (less rational) reasons for buying my bike (the Domane) was that it was both an ‘endurance’ bike (built for the less fit who want a more comfortable ride) and cool* (it was the bike Fabian Cancellara would use to ride Paris-Roubaix).

(* I … M … H … O)

Things have moved on slightly (‘endurance’ and all out racing bikes have converged somewhat), but Specialized also had (still have) a cool ‘endurance’ bike (i.e. aimed at the less flexible gent) that evoked the spring classics: the Specialized Roubaix – the clue’s in the title.

So Specialized remains the bike manufacturer I almost went for (the one that got away).

Other Slightly Related Facts

I did end up buying a Specialized steed a year after the conclusion of my endurance bike purchasing quest.

Only it was a 20″ Specialized Hotrock hardtail mountain bike for my son. Whilst an excellent bike, less relevant for this post.

Finally, true fact, the colour scheme for this ‘ere blog, which I updated last year is based on my current favourite team jersey: the Trek-Segafredo women’s kit (circa 2019).

So Let’s Start With The Basics

Both Trek and Specialized are US manufacturers.

Trek was founded in 1976 in Waterloo, Wisconsin by Richard Burke, owner of an appliance distribution business, and Bevil Hogg, a bike shop owner. As a lifelong fan of Lord Wellington and Abba (both of who loved distributing appliances), this appeals to me.

The company started life in a barn , a building which I recall from an episode of the Cycling Tips podcast, Trek still keeps as part of its current ‘campus’.

(Come on, that’s history, innit.)

The company (as far as I can tell) continues to be owned by the family of the original founders, and is run by John Burke, son of Richard.

Specialized was founded in 1974, two years earlier than Trek, by Mike Sinyard. Initially Sinyard imported Italian bike parts that he’d discovered on his bike travels, but by 1981, Specialized had started making its own bikes, with one of the first being the Allez road bike*.

(* Wait! They still make the Allez, all these years later. Amazing…).

The company is 49%-owned by Merida, a Taiwanese firm that also make bikes. I think I probably knew this (prior to undertaking the ‘sort-of-research’ for this post) but was more surprised to discover that it made the acquisition in 2001. Anyway, Sinyard remains CEO.

Where Do Trek and Specialized Make Their Bikes?

Both companies undertake a large amount of their manufacturing overseas. It’s difficult (or impossible) to get precise figures as both are privately owned.

I can see why companies keep this information to themselves. When she was standing for political office a few years ago, the opponents of Mary Burke (of the Trek family) focused heavily on the fact that Trek bikes were made overseas and not supporting American jobs…

Trek sells in the millions of bikes per year (not all road bikes), of which maybe 10,000 of the really high end ones are manufactured in the US. Whilst much of the overseas production is (I think) in China, it also manufactures in Holland and Germany.

According to this article (which sounds legit but don’t believe everything you read on the internet, kids), all Specialized bikes are made in Asia, with key suppliers being Merida (makes sense), Giant and ‘Ideal’ (?!?)

Summary of the two ranges

I doubt you came here just for the history and some speculation over manufacturing facilities (though you should be aware that I do have actually have a history degree).

Wherez arez the bikez.

I thought I’d try to break down the road bike ranges of each company to help understand what compares with what. I could try to do that for their mountain bikes as well, but with my lack of knowledge on that front, I’d quickly be well over my skis. Look for that info elsewhere.

Similarly for their hybrid, e-bikes and other random ranges, well… whatever.

Trying to boil it down, here is a list of the road bike model ‘families’ made by each company, classified by the target sub-segment of the roadie market:

Trek’s Road Bike Range

• Aluminium (beginner/budget) road bike: aluminium versions of the Domane and Emonda
• Endurance (relaxed fit): Domane
• Lightweight (racey climby): Emonda
• Aero road (as opposed to pure aero): Madone
• Gravel (adventure): Checkpoint, Boone and Crockett (not a 1960s group of protest musicians)

Here’s a link to the full range of Trek’s road bikes , in case you can’t work out how to Google.

Specialized’s Road Bike Range

• Aluminium (beginner/budget) road bike: Allez
• Endurance (relaxed fit): Roubaix
• Lightweight (racey climby): Tarmac
• Aero road (as opposed to pure aero): Venge
• Gravel (adventure): Diverge

And here’s a cheeky link to the Specialized website , so you can see all the up-to-date variants.

How Do Trek And Specialized Denote Better Bikes (Model Naming Conventions)?

This is not always an exact science, as specifications can vary as models can be updated each year.

(Inexact science is my jam…)

Trek signal different levels of specification, higher quality (or lighter) frames, additional expensive features, through a combination of numbers (mainly) and letters (to a limited degree).

Higher numbers denote a higher specc’ed bike. The current Domane SL 5 has a Shimano 105 groupset. The SL 6 has Ultegra. Top of the range, the SLR 9 has full Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 electronic gears.

Trek bikes at the lower end of the price scale generally have the ‘SL’ designation (unless they’re aluminium frames, in which case they’re ‘AL’). I query if all the bikes in a range can be Super Light (or superleggara ) but there you go.

At the upper end an R is added, to arrive at SLR (I’m guessing Super Light Race). The key difference between SL and SLR bikes is the frame.

Using the Domane as an example, the SLR frame has adjustable resistance settings on the Isospeed ‘suspension’ at the front and rear of the bike. The SL frame doesn’t (you’ll get the level of resistance you’re given).

The Emonda SL frame is made from 500 series OCLV* carbon and weighs 1.68kg. The SLR version is upgraded to 700 series OCLV and weighs 1.19kg.

(* Optimum Compaction Low Void, in case you’re wondering…)

Specialized (thankfully) adopt a slightly more straightforward forward approach to naming their bikes.

Generally speaking, the basic version is just called the, er, name. So the basic Specialized Roubaix is called the… Roubaix.

Then as you go up the spec tree (this monkey loves climbing the spec tree), you have the following suffixes:

Finally, at the top end, presumably in a nod to Lockheed’s advanced aircraft development arm (Skunk Works), Specialized does an ‘S-Works’ version of each bike (although ‘S-Works’ goes at the start, i.e. ‘S-Works Roubaix’ rather than ‘Specialized Roubaix S-Works’…).

Want To See More Photos Of Beautiful Trek and Specialized Road Bikes?

Of course you do.

The websites of both Trek and Specialized do a fine job of showing off their bikes to the fullest.

I ride a Trek Domane as my main road bike. I *love* the look of the new Emonda (shown here). Gold though...?

I am rather partial to the S-Works Tarmac (pictured here), if Specialized want to send me one to review....

Well there is no conclusion, is there?

Because I haven’t finished.

The first draft of this post (which wasn’t even finished) was knocking on 5,000 words. Too much for even the most patient blogfans to bear.

I’ve broken it down into what looks like four future posts, each one dealing with a different bike category. So I’ll compare the Trek Emonda with the Specialized Tarmac, the Madone with the Venge. You get the idea.

Update: I’m pleased to report that I’ve published the Trek/Specialized endurance bike comparison – so now you can read it:

• Trek Domane vs Specialized Roubaix: Endurance Road Bike Comparison  

Now, quick show of hands.

Who here owns a Trek road bike or a Specialized? Which one? What are your thoughts and would recommend the one you’ve got?

Let me know in the comments section below.

Cheers Monty

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33 thoughts on “Specialized vs Trek Road Bikes: My Comparison Guide”

I have 2013 S Roubaix and love it. Not sure I would purchase the latest model, everything seems to be getting to ‘technical’ and awkward to fix out on the road. I like to keep things simple stupid.

2016 Roubaix with 105 was my first drop bar bike, loved it but over time it became clear I needed a size 58 rather than the 61. Replaced it with a 2018 Roubaix and got it pro fitted, it’s amazing now. Followed up with a 2018 Diverge E5 to have an aluminum bike without the future shock but with the same fitting for dog trailer pulling, winter, and trainer use (SUPER similar geometry to the Roubaix)

I’ve been really happy with them, and never felt like it was holding me back compared to a Tarmac. They can be set up similar regardless, and the accumulated fatigue of chip seal around here makes the Roubaix a no brainer.

How tall are you? I’ve been waffling about a 58

Hi Jonathan – I’m between 5’9 and 5’10. Hope that helps!

I have a 2019 Roubaix Expert.

IT’S FABULOUS!!!!!

2018 Specialized Allez Sport. My first bike since I was a kid, so I don’t have much to compare it to, but it seems fast enough (I have a couple KOMs locally) and is comfortable at a century so nothing to complain about. It could be a little lighter, I’ve been thinking of upgrading and keeping the Allez for commuting but it will be hard to convince the wife it is a worthwhile expense.

Trek Domane. Great bike.

I have a Trek Checkpoint 5.0 and a Specialized Diverge Sport. I like both bikes. As a general comment, the Trek is heavier than the Specialized. So when you are buying at the bottom price of each carbon model, Trek seems to go for durability and flexibility of use over lightweight. By the way, my Checkpoint was made by Giant in Taiwan (on the bike box).

I finished 4 RAAM times on a Specialized S-Works Roubaix – loved it ; very comfortable to ride for hours, but slow and hard to ride fast. Just did RAW on my Trek Emonda – the best! Super light and fast. Actually, I love both of these bikes – there are just very different.

Had a 2013 Roubaix for a couple of years, loved it, did some 100 milers and the Grand Depart 2019 for Prostate Cancer UK 130 miles including cobbles. Last ride on Doris (the Roubaix) was Revolve 24 at Brands Hatch, again she performed well. I now have a 2016 Tarmac SL3 Expert, early days but loving the sportier geometry and the ability to put the power down.

I have a 2014 Trek Domane 4.5 which I purchased after a bike fit with my Boardman Team Carbon demonstrated that I needed a smaller bike. If this sounds familiar I went for the bike fit after reading your blog as I prepared for Ride London – just as you did a year before! I love this bike and have rode Ride London in 2014, Velothon Wales in 2015, Ride London 46 in 2016 and Velo Birmingham in 2017 numerous 100Km plus rides. I must have ridden well over 4000 miles. BUT – this year I was due to ride it on Ride London again. Following a gear cable break on a training ride I discovered play in the cranks and this was traced to a siezed BB bearing which was spinning in the frame and had worn the BB housing. This required a return of the frame to Trek for a repair which they would not do under the lifetime warranty- apparently this is wear and tear. The repair wasn’t cheap but wasn’t as bad as I first feared but couldn’t be done in time for this years Ride London. So I’d be interested to know what maintenance regime other Trek users have used to avoid this happening to them. With the Trek unavailable for RL this year used a smaller 2014 Boardman Team Carbon which I bought at the end of 2014 for £750 when it was end of line at Halfords, an absolute bargain and a third of the price of the Trek. Upgraded from 10-speed 105 to 11 speed Ultegra, and getting it set up properly for me it is just as good as the Trek and climbs better although is perhaps a little harsher on rough roads. I use Specialised Toupe saddles on all my bikes though!

I have a 2017 Trek Domane SL7 (Ultegra Di2) for my normal road bike. I’ve updated it in a few places, Deda Zero 100 bars and Stem, Hunt wheels with Swalbe Pro one tubeless tires, Absolute Black Oval chainrings,Selle Italia Superflow SLR saddle. Weight saved was 0.8KG. Overall love my Domane, a much better ride on the welsh pothole riddled roads than previous bikes. Will use it on next years Ride London (assuming I get a place) rather than my Look Huez (great as a lightweight climbing bike for the welsh hills).

I had a 2015 Specialized Roubaix expert. It was good. Made the mistake of test riding a 2018 Roubaix Comp with Future Shock. First ride not much difference. We changed the shock spring from the stiffest to lightest. Night and day better. This bike floats over bumps compared to my previous Roubaix. It’s quick and fast. The 28 tires are excellent too.

Thanks for the great post.

After laboring (or “labouring” if you are in Europe) – or really obsessing – about my “retirement” bike, I finally chose the 2019 Specialized Tarmac Pro frameset (my first full carbon bike was the first iteration of the carbon Tarmac – so many decades ago!) I chose this over the Trek Domane SLR, and the Cervelo S-3 for its slight weight advantage and because it seemed to have the best overall reviews in terms of speed, weight and comfort. As I still race in age-grouped triathlons and aquabikes, but am now at an age when a full-on tri frame is too jarring, the last attribute was important.

Simply put, I love this bike. Though the others are amazing in their own right, the Tarmac has offered the speed and comfort that I longed for. I have raced it (including an aquabike with a 26-mile bike leg, and the one-person sprint tri that I did yesterday, (I came in first on that one, ) it has exceeded my expectations and wishes. It is built with Sram Etap, Reynolds Attack wheels (with 25mm tubeless tires,) a Zipp cockpit, and the stupidly expensive s-works saddle the name of which I have forgotten, but which is heaven to sit on.

I choose the 2017 Specialized Roubaix sport w/105 . Added Zipp’s course 30 wheel set W/ S-Work 28mm tires. this year Absolute black oval chain ring sub compact 32/48 for lots of climbing and 34/11 in the rear. I love the ride and the feel of the bike wish I could afford the S Works Roubaix

First road bike was an Allez and loved it several bikes and many years later I have a Roubaix Comp. This has to be the best bike I have ridden the perfect balance of comfort and pace, ok younger legs might get better speed out of a Tarmac, loving it.

I have a 2017 Roubaix with Specialized’s future shock suspension and at 50 years old appreciate that little bit of comfort. The rest of the standard bike is pretty good too

I’m not a top-end rider. I don’t race or compete at all, I’m just an average guy that likes to ride. I owned a Specialized hybrid and it was a very good bike. When I decided I wanted a road bike I found both Specialized and Trek lacking unless you were willing to spend a *lot* of money. My preference was a road bike with a Shimano 105 group set. While both Specialized and Trek advertized a 105 group set, both were only partially 105’s. Many of the components were not 105’s ( read “less expensive”). I wanted to by from an American manufacturer (I live in America), but I bought a bike from a German manufacturer (Bulls). The Bulls bike had 105 components across the board and cost about 1/2 (yes, a full half) of the closest equivalent Specialized or Trek. In my opinion, Specialized and Trek make some very good bikes, but they are more expensive.

I have a Specialized Roubaix Sport 2017 model which I bought to do Ride London 100 in August this year. My first carbon bike. I bought it on recomendation from a work colleague and I love it. Such a good comfortable bike. I had a professional fit on your recomendation Monty. 105 groupset. I put a 34/11 cassette on the rear to help me up the hills in the peak district. Don’t believe Shimano. 105 can take a 34 rear cog without any adjustment. All in all very happy.

Despite all the advice regarding Disk brakes I went for the Trek Emonda SL7 Disk, purchased at the end of May this year (2019) and not at all what I set out to buy. I use a Spa Audax Ti bike for winter and commuting so have only done 506 miles so far but have to say that the SL7 has exceeded my expectations in many areas including the Disk brakes. The bike was set up with data from a previous Retul bike fit in 2016 done on a Bianchi Infinito CV (loaned to me for a couple of years by my Son) and from the beginning has given me pain free cycling, I do intend to have another Retul fit done on the Trek when time and money allows. I would not hesitate to recommend both Trek as the manufacturer and the SL7 Disk as a fast, sporty climber that ticks many of the “Endurance” qualities along with a comfortable and smooth ride.

Trek Emonda ALR 5, this is my first bike since my Schwinn Varsity when I was a kid a long time ago. So not much to compare to, it goes up hills really nice, around turns with confidence. If I want to reduce any weight, the best way would be to lighten the rider not the bike! I think it is lightweight, had several people have asked if it is carbon, the welds are great. I ride it on the road and rail trails.

I’ve got a Trek Domane 5.2, 2014 vintage, replacing a Cannondale R2.8 that I really liked. But I was really amazed at the differences in the old Dale vs. the Trek. I had ridden several other bikes before selecting the Domane and all the others seemed to be just a newer version of the Dale, the trek felt like an actual upgrade beyond just newer.

Finally, I’ll be expecting Mont to compile these comments and add these survey notes to one of the remaining 3 posts : )

iI am a vintage weekend warrior (so to speak) ie +50 , i bought a Trek Emonda SL6 with upgraded Mavic wheel set about three years ago – best bike I have had ! especially on the hilly bits. Before this i was ( in recent times anyhow) a Specialized convert with an aluminium Allez followed by a carbon Roubaix – both great bikes

Thanks for posting this blog.. I’m recently getting back into road biking after over 20 years away from it when i was in college riding my, then at the time, Bianchi race bike. I’m been riding pretty regularly recently and just did a recent sportive, and looking to upgrade my bike, originally was thinking ‘endurance’ but others in my ‘sportive team’ all ride the ‘race’ bikes. Been back and forth between Trek Emonda vs Cannondale Supersix / CAAD13, as well as carbon vs aluminium. Specialized keeps coming up in my research but not sold by my LBS. Just asking out of curiosity and because I’m really interested in learning more.. 1) why you didn’t include Cannondale in your blog.. I thought this would have been a natural comparison in the mix (is there a reason i should discount Cannondale) 2) are any bikes still manufactured in the US by Trek and Specialized?… and more specifically the models you listed above? This would be helpful as I continue my search for my next bike and value the opinion in the other comments above. Cheers!

Hi Monty Firstly love your work please keep it up especially the videos, great fun 👍

I missed this last year so apologies

I spent a year waiting for the new Roubaix to be released in Australia and went to buy one May 2019 I wanted the Di2 version with a 61cm frame Well the only color Specialized would offer was Matt black I’m not a drug dealer so why would I want s stealth matt black bike

My local bike shop where amazing, they asked Specialized to offer another color anything but black but no luck After a month or so of trying the bike shop even offered to paint the bike for me

At that point I decided Specialized did not deserve my $6000 and purchased a Cervelo R3 which I am really happy with in fluro green 😎

May be you could do a blog on bike color/ paint jobs in the future

Keep up the great work Safe riding

KS Brisbane AUS

Thanks KS. Glad you’re enjoying the blog and the vids. That’s great to hear. I’ll keep the bike colour topic in mind for future content. Cheers, Monty

Kinda late, but just reading this. The Trek Domane versus S Works Roubaix argument. I have a 2012 Domane 6.1 P1 with the Ultegra, a superb bike, but no front suspension dampening. I’ve demo’d the Spech Roubaix also, and these bikes are quite different in their handling, IMO Mostly due to frame dimensions.

The Spech has a ton of stack ( I ride 58 cm at 5-10 ) and is a bit.more jittery at higher speeds on windy roads. So, I’m buying another Domane, the SLR 9 with Dura Ace as a P1 (mostly paint). I may also get the Spech S Works, same components, but I really need to ride the 56 and 58 again.

I’m older (62), so no racing, just like nice bikes!!

Did you ever wrote the comparison articles as I cannot find them

Hmm, I did…. but then I haven’t quite finished and posted them. You’re prompt is a helpful kick up the bum. I’ll get them published. loveyoubyeeee

Hi there, i hope you can help me out.

Im looking for a road bike. i am 5’8″ and 130 lbs. What size is good for me? thanks so much

I have trek madone 2013 after specialized tarmac 2016 now i have giant tcr advance 2019 and its the best for qualité and price

I have a Trek Emonda SL6 disc, which I bought new a little over 2 years ago. After reading about how light the Emonda was, I went to the Trek store to ride one. They didn’t have any SLs, but one of the guys at the shop let me ride his personal SLR disc. On a quick spin, the bike felt amazingly responsive and quick. I figured how much difference could there be between the SL and SLR, so for probably 1/2 the price, I got the SL6 instead of the SLR6. HUGE MISTAKE! The two bikes are nothing alike. I’m super disappointed in the SL, which weighed 17.75 lb without pedals or bottle cages at delivery. Plus it came with 60 tpi tires that roll like square blocks. I replaced the tires with Conti GP5000s, so at least the bike is rideable, but I now ride my wife’s old Trek 5000 WSD instead. I average about 10,000 miles per year, but I probably have only about 5000 miles on the Emonda in the past two or three years. That’s what I get for trying to save a few bucks.

2012 Madone 4.5, great bike, fast very comfortable 2015 S-Works Tarmac, great bike, extremely fast

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Specialized Roubaix vs. Trek Domane: battle of the plush

Comfort, where art thou?

Ben Delaney

After years battling over ‘stiffest’ and ‘lightest’, Trek and Specialized are now fighting at the other end of the spectrum — the ‘cushiest’, with wildly different approaches.

• Trek Domane SLR 7 Disc review
• Specialized Roubaix 2017 review

This article was updated on 4 April 2017

So which is better, the new Specialized Roubaix with its cartridge suspension between the stem and head tube or the new Trek Domane with a flexing frameset and massive 32mm clinchers?

As with so many things in cycling, it depends on your preference. For instance, is Shimano or Campagnolo best? Well, that depends on how you like the respective hood shapes, lever placements and overall ergonomics.

That said, I can tell you how each performs in different situations, which bike certain types of riders will appreciate, and the pros and cons of vertical movement on a road bike.

T wo five-star machines

After some thorough testing, I gave the Domane SLR 7 Disc five stars and declared it the best endurance road bike. My colleague Warren Rossiter spent a lot of time on the new Roubaix and gave it five stars , and, you guessed it, declared the bike to be the best endurance road bike.

Aside from providing our readers with a laugh — you are both our favorite child — the two bikes do bring up an interesting discussion on design philosophy. Namely, should the bike or the rider be suspended?

Trek is hesitant to even call the Domane design suspension, but the big flexing seat tube is in effect a leaf spring, as is, to a lesser degree, the steerer that pivots fore and aft in the bolted headset. In any event, the frameset has some give, while the handlebar remains fixed in relation to the rider.

On the Roubaix, the front end of the bike is fully rigid — but the stem and handlebar ride on cartridge suspension. The bike’s rear is similar to the Domane, but with the cobra-looking CG-1 seatpost offering substantial fore/aft flex.

I was skeptical about the Domane design until I rode it; now I’m sold. I’m not light, but I can stand to climb or sprint on the Domane and the massive BB90-anchored frame doesn’t budge, nor seemingly does the handlebar when really reefing on it. But ride over nasty pavement or rough dirt and the bike — especially with low pressure in the fat tires — just floats.

I was even more skeptical about the new Roubaix with its bobbing handlebar. How could that not feel weird? However, after spending a few months on it and pointing the front wheel towards more and more dirt roads, and even tame singletrack, I’ve come to appreciate that the suspended handlebar can be a very good solution for many riders.

How much is the frame and how much are the tires?

Back when I was editor of VeloNews we did a lab test of four endurance bikes, measuring vibration with accelerometers while riding on lumpy rollers . The idea was to quantify comfort, as defined by reduction of a fixed level of vibration.

For years, the tires have been the best place to add comfort — go a little wider, reduce a little air pressure

The old Roubaix did the best by a wide margin, largely because it had 25mm tires while the others were shod in 23s. When we swapped wheels and tires the other bikes, like the Bianchi Infinito, were quite similar. (It’s funny that 25s seemed huge when we did that test in 2011.)

You have probably performed similar experiments with your own bike; less pressure, especially in wider tires, makes for a softer ride, right?

And comfort can certainly be injected into the mix at other points: the wheels, the seatpost, the saddle, the handlebars, the handlebar tape, the gel under the handlebar tape… and on and on.

• Five soft-riding seatposts tested in the lab and on the road

But there is a limit to how much cushioning each one of these components can offer before a road bike just feels weird. No roadie wants a saddle that feels like a giant feather bed or handlebars that flex like taffy.

For years, the tires have been the best place to add comfort — go a little wider, reduce a little air pressure — without sacrificing the overall feel of the bike. One of the coolest things about disc brakes on road bikes is how much they open our options for rubber.

Old flex, new flex and lousy hardtails with drop bars

Adding some mechanical squish to a road bike isn’t new. The Pinarello Dogma K8-S with its elastomer rear suspension, for instance, is really just a rehash of the Klein design from 2001. The Cannondale Slate with a suspension fork? RockShox had suspension forks on road bikes at Paris-Roubaix in the early 1990s.

We’ve also seen a number of suspension designs at the stem and seatpost over the years. The most recent is the BodyFloat, which Californian Denise Mueller just used in her 147mph paced land speed record ride .

So why haven’t any of these designs taken hold? If smoother is indeed faster, and everyone likes to be comfortable, then why don’t we see widespread adoption of mechanical suspension on road bikes?

My colleague Oli Woodman cracks up at some of the more extreme examples of adventure road bikes where huge, knobby tires roll on a rigid frame with a short-suspension fork… with drop bars. “At what point is this just a lousy hardtail?” he asks.

Personally, I like seeing builders push the envelope. Even if 99.9 percent of us will never have a road bike with cartridge suspension, a good majority of us will appreciate the general trend towards making road bikes a little more comfortable.

Front end comparisons: spring vs. flex

Before you have even clipped in, the Roubaix feels like no other road bike. Press on the handlebars and they sag, then rebound. There are three spring weights, but all are undamped. A highly tuneable cross-country fork with compression and rebound settings this is not.

So, at first blush, this confirms many riders’ pre-ride impressions: this feels weird. Once riding, however, you don’t really notice the float when riding straight in the saddle. Think about riding a mountain bike — or driving a car for that matter — bumps get absorbed and that’s a good thing.

Even rhythmic climbing isn’t off-putting. Yes, the bars move a bit, but the bike still feels connected.

The Domane handlebar, on the other hand, will do exactly nothing if you press on it before climbing aboard. But when you hit a hard bump, the front end slightly reduces the jarring. It is far more subtle than the deep bow of the rear end, but it is perceivable.

Where the Roubaix feels weird to me is hard breaking before or diving into hard corners. The front end dips and my gut feeling is always that my tire has gone soft. It’s hard to tease out how much is old habit from what just isn’t a refined design.

Roubaix flexing seatpost vs. Domane flexing seatmast and seat tube

The original Domane debuted Trek’s IsoSpeed concept where the the seatmast and the seat tube are free to bow as one, flexing from near the bottom bracket all the way up to the saddle, pivoting on the ‘IsoSpeed Decoupler’ pivot at the junction with the top tube and seatstays.

The new Domane refined this with an adjustable design, which effectively shortens or lengthens the amount of seat tube that flexes.

Specialized’s ‘cobble gobbler’ CG-R seatpost does a similar thing, but with the lower point of the flex determined by the seatpost collar. In past Roubaix bikes this was in the relatively traditional spot above the top tube. On the new bike, this two-clamp collar is down below the top tube. The seatpost has roughly twice the flex of a regular carbon post.

Here, the Domane and the Roubaix are much more similar than they are up front. Hit a hard bump while in the saddle and your weight will sag down into the bike just a little.

Generally, this is a positive thing. There is no need to feel the contours of every pothole in your pelvis.

In two situations, the massive flex on both bikes caught me a little off guard. Sprinting hard in the saddle (the Domane I tested had a compact and I like to sprint my friends because I’m a child) you can generate the same flex that a bump induces, which on flat ground feels like you may have a flat — and that you should stop sprinting. Similarly, hitting a bump mid corner causes the saddle to drop a little, approximating the sensation when your tire is going soft.

Geometry comparisons

As with shoes, if your bike doesn’t fit you right, it doesn’t matter how much wonderful technology it contains. Specialized and Trek initially aimed these disc machines at the endurance market, with more upright geometry.

Trek also had a race geometry version of the Domane in rim brake and in late March added race geometry for the disc version, too.

The Roubaix’s suspension design means you can only get the front end so low, although swapping to a flat bar (as shown here) from the riser bar will chop off 2cm.

Specialized Roubaix vs. Trek Domane — here's Warren's take

Roubaix: probably best for recreational riders and maybe even some off-road rowdies

I have enjoyed watching the reactions of fellow staffers at BikeRadar and friends at other magazines and websites to the Roubaix. The initial reaction was a near-universal, what the hell? But quite a few of us have come round to appreciating a softer ride — and/or pushing the bike into chunkier terrain.

It seems this bike is best suited to two different groups of riders. Recreational riders who are looking to get in some good miles on the open road by themselves or with a small group of friends will probably really enjoy the Cadillac ride.

On the other end of the spectrum, some mountain bikers who enjoy being in the dirt could probably appreciate the bike for its abilities — and not be put off by the idea of suspension. (Others might scoff at the primitive spring design.)

I found myself taking the Roubaix on rougher and rougher terrain. I put on 32mm cyclocross file treads, pumped them to 40psi and rallied the thing on singletrack. Switching back to the Domane, the hard bumps felt much harder and left me more with the thought that I probably shouldn’t be riding a road bike on a trail.

Domane: probably best for aggressive road riders and traditionalists

The Domane doesn’t look or initially feel all that different from a normal road bike, which makes it more appealing to racers and traditionalists.

When you stand up and sprint, the bike goes. There is zero bobbing. When you dive into corners, the handlebar remains in a fixed position.

The suspension at the front is much more subtle than the Roubaix’s, which makes it more predictable if also harsher.

The rear can be tuned to your liking, whether you want to adjust it for the day or just set it and forget it.

And now with the race geometry option, the Domane is definitely a better fit for those who like to pin on numbers.

So which sounds like the better bike for you? Roubaix all day or Domane for the money?

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Trek Domane SL 6 review

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

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The Trek Domane SL 6 is a do-it-all bike that offers amazing comfort over long distances. It may not be the most sprightly bike out there, but it's a versatile machine that won't let you down, and comes with a great spec at a competitive price.

Comfortable

Slightly sluggish on steep hills

You can trust Cycling Weekly. Our team of experts put in hard miles testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

The Trek Domane SL 6 enters Editor's Choice 2019 thanks to its superb versatility and great spec that provides comfort over any endurance ride. I've done century rides, touring rides and fast paced group rides with the Domane SL 6 never letting me down. A reliable bike that is a pleasure to ride, the Domane SL 6 is well worth it's place in this year's Editor's Choice.

The Trek Domane SL 6 is a very different kind of bike to the super-stiff frame and racey geometry I'd usually choose to ride. It's endurance setup and all-round capabilities won me over though and I was left hugely impressed after putting in a lot of miles on it.

>>> Best road bikes

>>> Buy now: Trek Domane SL 6 at Evans Cycles for £3200

The Domane is Trek's endurance offering, with its ride-smoothing IsoSpeed frame technology the unique selling point over other brands. The SL 6 is the mid-range offering, retailing at £3,200 with the most expensive version (the SLR 9) retailing at over £9,500.

The front and rear IsoSpeed is certainly the most noticeable thing when first riding the bike. Coming from a super-stiff frame, it's instantly noticeable how forgiving this bike is over rough roads and was perfect for the varying quality of British lanes in the early winter.

The IsoSpeed decouplers sit at the rear of the top tube and in the head tube, but unlike the higher end models in the Domane range you aren't able to adjust the rear IsoSpeed for more stiffness or more comfort on the SL 6. It would be a nice option to be able to adjust the bike to the style of riding your doing, but the comfort offered here on the fixed setting felt great nonetheless.

One concern ahead of riding the SL 6 was whether the dampening technology would compromise any power transfer or how fast the bike would feel. The SL 6 carbon fibre frame has some quite bulky tubes, and was responsive to seated and sprint efforts along the flats and draggy inclines. The aerodynamic shaping of the tubing also added to that feel.

Really steep climbs with efforts out of the saddle was the bike's weakest point however. It didn't feel sprightly - particularly in comparison to the Specialized Tarmac and Giant TCR I'd just ridden - and wasn't inspiring any attacking on the harsh ramps. But the Domane isn't really designed for that, though it features a wide range of gearing (50/34 at the front with 11-34 rear) that did allow me to get over anything with no trouble.

The best thing about this bike is definitely it's versatility. I used it for short commutes, long weekend rides, some short fast rides and even for multi-day touring. Trek has helped this feeling of versatility by building in neat features like the down tube storage compartment for your tubes, tyre levers and CO2 canisters, as well as built in mounts front and rear for Bontrager lights; all great touches that helped on those long rides and while touring.

Wheels can often be a mixed bag at this sort of price range, but I was impressed by the Bontrager Paradigm Comp 25 wheels provided on the Domane SL 6. With a rim width of 25mm, the wheels came shod with 32mm tubeless Bontrager R2 Hard-Case Lite tyres that I thought rolled really well and felt plenty fast considering their size and shallow rim depth. Moreover, the wheels felt stable and robust, adding to the comfort factor for endurance riding. I had no punctures or issues with the wheels at all over hundreds of miles of testing. The frame also allows you to add up to 38mm tyres if you want to as well as mud guards, perfect for winter or taking the bike over cobbles or light gravel paths.

The SL 6 comes with mechanical Shimano Ultegra R8000 which as usual performed brilliantly with crisp and reliable shifting. The bike uses flat-mount Ultegra hydraulic disc brakes which really added to the feel on long or technical descents.

In terms of value I think the Domane SL 6 is in the expected range for what its offering, coming in £200 cheaper than the comparable Specialized Roubaix Comp for example. Although this isn't the kind of bike I would usually ride, I was genuinely taken with what the SL 6 offered with it's all-round capabilities.

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Follow on Twitter: @richwindy

Richard is digital editor of Cycling Weekly. Joining the team in 2013, Richard became editor of the website in 2014 and coordinates site content and strategy, leading the news team in coverage of the world's biggest races and working with the tech editor to deliver comprehensive buying guides, reviews, and the latest product news.

An occasional racer, Richard spends most of his time preparing for long-distance touring rides these days, or getting out to the Surrey Hills on the weekend on his Specialized Tarmac SL6 (with an obligatory pub stop of course).

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Trek Domane vs Specialized Roubaix

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I am looking for my first road bike and trying to decided which route to go. Alum bike (sectur, 2.3 trek) or a lower end carbon? The two bikes I am debating on are the Specialized Roubaix line or the Trek 4.0. Both bike shops sold it as being better then the other with the built in iso tech on the trek and zerts on the Specialized. I did a new store mini ride on the Specialized and it was a great ride but really need to wait for the weather to break to test drive longer. I really don't want to go over 2,000 bucks and the domane 4.0 will be on sale in March for 1700.00.The Roubaix is 1600.00. I am comparing sora on the Roubaix which I was told is last years 105 and the Trek 4.0 with Tegra. I just wonder how well the domane rides with its new technology in Alum like the 2.3 .I would hate to spend this kind of money and not ride it much and though that money away. All my roadie friends are saying do carbon but I worry about the durability and price. Thoughts?  

Both are fine bikes. Personally I'd go with the Roubaix because I like Specialized better than Trek. 2 factors that are important are which bike shop you like better and which paint job you like better. Good luck!  

I'd go for the Trek for the Tiagra instead of the Sora on the Specialized. I think Tiagra shifting is way better than Sora. Just one man's opinion.  

I took a 2.3 and a 4.5 Domane for couple hour rides each before buying. Both are nice bikes, very comfortable endurance geometry. The carbon frame is noticeably more compliant over bumps/rough roads. I didn't ride the Specialized so can't comment on that comparison. I will say the 2.3 and 4.5 both shifted very nicely.  

Its funny you say this I stopped by the LBS today and the guy stated them might have the 4.5 for 20-25% off for one day only coming in March. That price would have me look closer at the 4.5 then the 4.0 or 2.3. He really wanted to sell me the 4.5 for alot of reasons over the 4.0. You get the race wheels, tubless ready and 105 components. If I get the 4.0 and upgrade the wheels I am looking at 600 which is the difference between the 4.0 and 4.5 2000.00 vs 2600.00 for the 4.5. At that upgraded price you are getting better components too!!! I really need to test drive these bikes hoping for a break in the weather soon before there sale. The other thing that concerns me is transport. I have top tube 5 bike yakiama rack i bought last year and now I read Trek doesn't recommend those racks for carbon. I would have to get a new rack aghhh..  

I'd go for neither. Both brands suck. Be different. Buy a bike that 8,000,000 other people don't have.  

My advice is to test ride all the bikes under consideration (preferably with appropriate tire pressures for your weight/ tire size and road conditions), narrowing the field from there. Focus on fit/ feel, ride and handling along with control placement/ function. Make these test rides real.. as in, out on the roads, ideally in similar terrain that you'll be riding, and consider which LBS's emphasize the importance of sizing (and those test rides) because IMO/E, that's what separates the better shops. If other brands are offered in your area, I suggest branching out some and test riding those. There's nothing wrong with any of the bikes you're considering, and you may well go back to one of them, but at least take some time to check out other offerings before deciding. Lastly, I wouldn't get too caught up in iso tech/ zertz anything. Many brands resort to techno-jargon to separate themselves with others. Use test rides to determine what really feels best to you.  

This I agree with +1  

matty1 said: I am comparing sora on the Roubaix which I was told is last years 105 and the Trek 4.0 with Tegra. Click to expand...

I have a 2013 Trek Madone 2.3 and it comes with a 105 group set as does the Domane. The only Tigara piece is the rear cassette and the main crank is an R565. I actually looked at the 3 series for the carbon frame, but the components were downgraded to Tiagra. It also wasn't that much lighter so I opted for the better components.  

Trek!!!!  

He's claiming that last year's 105 is this year's sora? I think someone is trying to rip you off. Roubiax Compact: MSRP $1750.00 Domane 4.0: MSRP $2099.99 Don't look at the price tag however. Ride the frames and see how you feel. I would suggest you to consider a slightly more expensive Specialized like the Roubiax Sport Compact which comes with Tiagra parts.  

The Domane has much better ride quality than the Roubaix. The iso-speed system allows the saddle to move up to 32mm when absorbing bumps. the zertz in the Roubaix do nothing for bump absorption. they do damp some road vibration, but it's generally accepted to be at frequencies not normally encountered on the road. The Domane is also a lot stiffer through the front end of the frame and in my opinion (yes, i've ridden both, more than once) handles better. Yes, i work at a Trek dealer. But after riding both bikes the Domane is much, much better at doing what it's designed to do.  

I agree with the above in terms of ride quality and handling. That's why I bought a Domane 4.5. I liked the Ultegra shifting much better than the Tiagra on the 4.0 - it felt much crisper and enhanced the enjoyment of the ride. I didn't care for the Sora shifters at all on some models I rode. I also liked the carbon frame much better (obviously). It felt much more comfortable. If you can get a Domane 4.0 or even a 4.5 on a sale, I'd go for that. As for another brand - well, I looked at what my LBS carried. I was happy with the options and ride for me, not what others think. Of course, when it comes to cars I drive a 2012 Maxima (GM, Toyota reference) because it's a great, sporty, near luxury sedan that I LOVE. I hate the blandness and numb handling of Toyota and Honda.  

Specialized and Trek are like GM and Toyota. Get something a little different. How about Wilier Izoard XP with Sram Rival? Competitive has it for $1899 out the door! 2013 Wilier Izoard XP/SRAM Rival Complete Bike - Competitive Cyclist  

aclinjury said: Specialized and Trek are like GM and Toyota. Get something a little different. How about Wilier Izoard XP with Sram Rival? Competitive has it for $1899 out the door! 2013 Wilier Izoard XP/SRAM Rival Complete Bike - Competitive Cyclist Click to expand...

I have a buddy who suggested I look at a Surly Crosscheck. Its a simple bike but for a newbie the cromely frame is durable, bombproof for crashes. He has had carbon and alum in his past and settled on the cross check which being steel handles the road well iHHO. I just need to find a dealer that has one to look at . Thoughts on this compared to a Alum with carbon seat and fork?  

matty1 said: I have a buddy who suggested I look at a Surly Crosscheck... Thoughts on this compared to a Alum with carbon seat and fork? Click to expand...

I own an SL4 Roubaix and a Crosscheck and have ridden a Domane. The Crosscheck is a different kind of bike. It's heavy old school do it all kind of bike. You can put big tires on it for off road use, racks for commuting or touring. It can be set up for single speed. It depends on what you want the bike for. I use my Crosscheck for gravel rides, bad weather days, Winter use, slow rides. For road rides of any consequence at all ill take the Roubaix. I test rode a Domane 6.9 and liked it. Nice bike.  

Wow that is great information on the Surly. I going to be hitting a few bike shops tomorrow and trying to nail down my choices. I really would like carbon but it's It's Looking more and more that Alum with carbon fork is going to be it. I will have to check out the sectur on the specialized side and the 2.3/2.0 on the trek side. I don't have the extra money for a new bike rack to carry a carbon bike and just bought a new Yakiama hitch rack for the family last year. I also need to have money for the first time things like, shoes, etc. I still think alum or not the domane still will shine above the rest for what I am reading. I am going to look at Cannondale tomorrow and a Surly for kicks with crosscycle styling I don't need. That said I really want a fat tire Surly next winter.:thumbsup: I also have to factor in a fitting of some kind either basic or full fitting. Most shops want 200 plus for the full fitting the Trek shop said for fitness riding they can dial me in pretty close for 60 bucks and then do adjustments after a month or two of riding. If i get the Alum Domane I am leaning toward getting better components 105 seems to be the highest they offer for the Domane Alum series.  

Those are some nice looking bikes.  

Internet and sales pitch overload! Some observations from riding a few different bikes... Frame material per se is not that important. Aluminum, steel and carbon can all be built stiff or flexy. Test riding can give you some insight. Not much, tbh. Although you may notice more in terms of handling - how the bike feels in hard cornering, that kind of thing. Different sets of wheels can give a bike fairly different behaviors. Since you're buying a complete, I don't think there's that much harm in having your judgement colored by the wheels that come on the bike. Aluminum technology hasn't changed much in several years. It's still refined from bauxite, it's still mixed with some kind of magic dust and heat treated, and it's still tunable to a variety of ride qualities. Some of the production processes have been getting more sophisticated over time, but it's not a fast enough pace for a '13 bike to have new technology in any real way. Various weird inserts have been around for a while. Usually, I don't think they do anything. Sometimes, they cause failures. Since I don't really get a choice about their presence or absence if I like a bike in general, I wouldn't let them deter me. But I certainly wouldn't consider them a selling point. Since that new Trek thing is actually changing the nature of the joint and not just another insert, I guess I can believe it might actually do something. Wouldn't sell me the bike, but maybe it makes a ride quality that would. Fit makes a huge difference. I'm finally boxing up a nice but too-big bike to send to my brother in favor of a bike that's less nice on paper but is a more appropriate size for me. It'll also be good to simplify a little more before my next move. Tire pressure makes a huge difference. Huge. I suspect that if I were to feel a real difference in ride quality between frames, I'd need to ride them back-to-back on the same wheels and tires. When I broke a frame a while ago, at first I thought I had flatted my tire. And yeah - try to refine your use case. The more comparable Surly to the bikes you mentioned earlier would be the Pacer. Almost everybody has some entries in the endurance road category. Not too surprising - sooner or later, someone was going to notice that they were being charged more money for less versatile bikes... so the market's swinging the other way some again. Some questions you might want to ask yourself about how you're using the bike are what your primary use is going to be, whether or not you'll ever race it, whether or not you'll ride it to work, if you might ever want to try touring, if you'll self-support any really long rides - like over eight hours, give-or-take, if you might want to ride off-road, how easily deterred by bad weather you are. You're pretty likely to change your use patterns from what you anticipate now, but I figure it doesn't hurt to try to land close to the mark to begin with.  

AndrwSwitch said: Tire pressure makes a huge difference. Huge. I suspect that if I were to feel a real difference in ride quality between frames, I'd need to ride them back-to-back on the same wheels and tires. When I broke a frame a while ago, at first I thought I had flatted my tire. Click to expand...

I liked the Domane quite a bit when I rode it. I only got to take it out for 45 min, so its hard to make a real solid judgement. It was a Trek Demo Days event. I also took out a Madone which I did not like as much as the Domane. The Domane was was shorter in the top tube area compared to the Roubaix. Not sure how much of that was stem vs frame geometry. I felt a bit cramped. The Roubaix is a better fit for me. Still, a nice bike for sure. I didn't notice in the limited ride time I had on the Domane any big advantage or disadvantage in handling. The front end actually felt a bit harsh, but maybe that was just in comparison to the ride in the seat which was so smooth. I wish I could have taken it out for a long ride. I really like my SL4 Roubaix, but would be quite happy on a Domane as well. I think I would have to take a good look at the fit to see if it would work, but thats just my body size/preference.  

I got a 2013 Roubaix Elite Compact and I had to ditch the stock saddle in order to get the "plush" ride many rave about. I tried the stock Toupe for a month and was seriously doubting the "plush" ride claim until I swapped saddles and finally understood what everyone was raving about. I honestly don't know why Specialized includes such a hard saddle on an endurance bike. Something like a Romin Evo gel would have been a much more appropriate choice for this bike IMO (leave the Toupe for Tarmacs and Venges lol.) As far as Sora on the base Roubaix I test rode one of those and it's nowhere near "last years 105." I had 9 speed 105 on my old road bike and Sora is much sloppier in feel. I would go with at least the Roubaix Sport Compact with Tiagra shifters. If you shop around it's not difficult to get 10-15% off MSRP (I was able to get over 20% off on my Roubaix.)  

You mean a brand sold at your LBS? Because there are two shops near me that sell Wilier. There just happen to be online retailers that also sell Wilier. I would agree that you should buy from a LBS. the knowledge, expertise, and post purchase support will be so much better. That's why I bought my Wilier from my LBS. They do make great bikes though.  

Unless you plan to ride this bike for 20+ years, don't sweat the durability of the carbon. Still riding the 2004 Trek 5900. I've gone down many times over the past 9 years. The bike has fared better than me.  

Two things. 1) In real life, sales on larger-ticket items are never 3 hours only. If it's available tomorrow for that price and they want to move the bike, they'll sell it to you for that price on another day. 2) Which bike did you like better? I couldn't follow your post with regard to which bike had which component group, so no idea what the shop is asserting 105 is $400 better than. The jaded side of me doubts that it could be true, but then the entire spec is usually a bit different, not just the Shimano-branded drivetrain components. (And much of the time, you get hosed on wheels at every price...)  

Sorry the 2.3 domane had 105 on sale tonight for 1500 instead of normal price of 1700 after sale. The 2.0 domane is only 10% off tonight from 1300 normally and it runs tigra. I wonder if the prices are set by each dealer or trek. They told me the trek dealer will be there tonight.  

matty1 said: Sorry the 2.3 domane had 105 on sale tonight for 1500 instead of normal price of 1700 after sale. The 2.0 domane is only 10% off tonight from 1300 normally and it runs tigra. I wonder if the prices are set by each dealer or trek. They told me the trek dealer will be there tonight. Click to expand...

Also on the Domane 2.0 vs. 2.3 - I don't think the 2.3 has that much over the 2.0. Same frame, same wheels, near-identical cockpits. There may still be a small difference in lever feel with 105 vs. Tiagra, but the differences are mainly in the attractiveness of the finishes and probably a few grams here and there. The crank on the 2.3 isn't even the 105 crank. This is more-or-less par for bikes listing a certain level of component as their spec lately - you get the shifters and derailleurs, but the wheels often have some other, crappy hub and the brakes are frequently Tektros. Cranks are often mismatched too, either FSA (not a fan) or a Shimano non-series crank. Tektro brake calipers are fine, although if you ride in wet weather you'd want to replace the brake pads right away, but still - the whole thing is kind of lame. To Trek's credit, I guess they're not calling the 2.3 a "105 bike" or putting "105" in the name. How did you feel about the rides of these bikes, such as they were, vs. the Roubaix? And, I'm confused - were you thinking about doing some extended riding on gravel?  

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Trek Domane SL 6 Review: Is It The Best Performance Road Bike

• By Daniel Shakibaie
• Road Bike , Trek Bikes

Welcome to my Trek Domane SL 6 Review.

Today I will show you why I think Trek Domane SL 6 is the best road bike available on the market in 2021. If you are looking for a performance road bike that can be relied upon to be fast and comfortable, this should be your pick. It incorporates road-smoothing advantages of a lightweight OCLV Carbon frame with the added functionality of Front and Rear IsoSpeed, a top-notch drivetrain (full Shimano Ultegra drivetrain), and the best of the high-quality wheels.

It also has hydraulic disc brakes to ensure you stop in any weather conditions. If that weren’t enough for you, it also comes with a storage compartment for stowing ride essentials.

In this review, I will go deep into every feature and benefit of this fantastic bike.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Road Bike

The most important thing for you to consider when shopping for a Road bike is where you will be planning to take your new ride. The Trek Domane SL 6 is perfect to take on smooth roads that will allow you to maximize your speed to allow you to zoom along at an expeditious pace. Trust us, you will be noticed as you are flying on by!

Bike Frame Materials: When shopping for a bike to take out into the world, you have to account for the bike frame materials are very important because this is where most of the bike’s weight comes from. The Trek Domane SL 6 ss made out of a carbon frame, which is extremely lightweight yet durable.

Gears: The bike gears control the bike to reach certain speeds and determine how it handles going some of the ups and down you will run into via elevation. For speed and climbing slopes there are different gears. Certain types of bikes require different gear settings. The Trek Domane SL 6 has gears that work effectively to get up to speed quickly.

Seat and Handlebars: The seating and positioning of the handlebars determine what riding position you will be in and, to nobody’s surprise, is extremely important. The Trek Domane SL 6 has a comfortable, yet aggressive riding position, which works best when pushing the speed limits. 

Brakes: The braking system on the bike is vital to ensure the safety of the rider. On this bike, your brakes will be your best friend as they can bring you to a stop when necessary.

Features & Benefits

The features and benefits of the Trek Domane SL 6 are well for both performance and comfort.

The frame of the Trek Domane SL 6 is made with carbon fiber which will ensure a reliable ride. It can handle rough terrain while also keeping at a speed that will keep you on your toes. the frame of the bike is designed based on Trek’s innovative Stache platform. This bike will perform to the level of expectations that Trek has relied upon for years.

The frame of the Trek Domane SL 6 can handle all terrains you expose it to and do so with comfort. Because of how rugged the frame is, it does weigh a little more than some of the similar road bikes by Trek. Compared with a steel frame, a carbon fiber is more lightweight and can get you moving fast quickly. Along with it being lighter, you do not have to worry about all the additional noise a mechanical frame would give off.

More: The Best Bike for Short Female On The Market [Review and Buying Guide]

• 500 Series OCLV Carbon & IsoSpeed
• 3S chain keeper
• 142 x 12mm thru-axle

Specifications:

• Domane SL carbon
• Tapered carbon steere
• Internal brake routing
• Fender mounts
• Flat mount disc
• 12 x 100mm thru axle

Suspension System

The suspension system is the system that keeps the rider from becoming overwhelmed from the roughness of the uneven roads. For road bikes, the suspension system is one of the most important things to consider because it will determine how comfortable and safe a ride you will have with rough terrain.

The Trek Domane SL 6 is outfitted with the latest technology suspension. The suspension on the Trek Domane SL 6 is so good that many people are wondering if it will be sold as a separate part for use with other bikes. Right now, this suspension only available in Trek models.

When seeking a top-level speed out on the road, you need the wheels to get it done. The Trek Domane SL 6 can fit up to 38c wide wheels to offer speed while also accounting for the roughest roads. The wheels are tubeless-ready, which only ensures you continue to reach high consistent speeds.

The wheel materials used are durable and support your speed in an effective fashion. When thinking about the Trek Domane SL 6 wheels is that they are stable, strong, and create strong traction.

More: Diamondback Road Bike Reviews: Is It A Good Brand?

The Trek Domane SL 6 has all of the gears that you should need for long rides over difficult terrains. The only downside to the gearing system that we could find is that some people have reported that they wish the bike had gears to make climbs easier.

The Trek SL 6 has a range of 2 x 11-gears. This can give you access to 22 different gears as you see the need based on the speed and terrain you are dealing with.

Shimano manufactures the gear component, which comprises all drivetrain gear components and shifters. The shifting gears with this system are easy and it remains in the gear without accidentally shifting out. These gears allow the rider to cross different terrains without damaging the chain.

The Trek Domane SL 6 relies on a hydraulic disc brake system to stop you quickly. Hydraulic brakes are highly effective for making quick stops even in wet conditions. Shimano makes the brake system. Hydraulic braking systems offer the most powerful stopping power. You can trust this bike to come to a clean stop no matter the terrain or road conditions.

Compared to mechanical brakes, hydraulic brakes are high-performance in all weather conditions. Mechanical brakes use a cables system, while hydraulic brakes use pressure to force the hydraulic fluid to activate the brake pads.

The Trek Domane SL 6 is considered to be one of the best bikes in cycling. It is highly rated by consumers and continues to demonstrate a high level of reliability for all. When looking to find your next bike, you really need to consider the Trek Domane SL 6

More: Specialized Allez Review: The Only Bike You Need To Have

Alternatives

Trek has a comprehensive line of road bikes. Here is a summary of how the Trek Domane SL 6 compares with the other Domane SL models and the Specialized Roubaix:

Trek Domane SL 6 vs  Trek Domane SL 5

The Trek Domane SL 6 is very similar to the Trek Domane SL 5. They look very similar, and the biggest difference between the two is that the SL 6 comes in at 1.8 pounds lighter. When you are in the world of milliseconds, that weight matters.

They are both reliable bikes and constructed similarly. You can’t go wrong either bike but one will move just faster. The choice is yours.

More: If you are looking for cheaper road bike here is our list of road bike under $1500

Trek Domane SL 6 vs  Trek Domane SL 7

As we referenced above, the Trek Domane bikes are of similar construction, but the major difference is the weight of the bike itself. That is the case here too. The Trek Domane SL 7 is now lighter than the SL 6 model by a whole pound. That does play a difference when you are looking to move quickly.

Trek Domane SL 6 vs Specialized Roubaix

When comparing the Trek Domane SL 6 to the Specialized Roubaix, you will be surprised how similar they are. This is surprising as they are from different companies. They are built similarly and perform conquerable to each other.

In considering your choices between the two, the Trek Domane SL 6 will be nicer on your wallet while performing just as well as the Specialized Roubaix.

The Trek Doman SL 6 bicycle is a bike that will push your speed limits to the brink. This top-notch bike will provide top-level performance and will thrill any thrill-seeker with its speed. This bicycle is a top-rated performance bicycle. With the various options out in the market, this one will meet your needs if you are an avid thrill-seeker seeking performance and comfort in one bike.

If you are also seeking to jump out into more rugged terrain, the cycle will make that happen too. There is something great about a bike offering a wide range of capabilities, while constantly displaying a versatility that provides the rider the kind of bike ride they deserve.

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Trek vs Specialized Bikes – 8 Key Differences Explained

As a long-time cycling enthusiast, I’ve had the privilege of riding a variety of bikes from different brands. Two brands that have always stood out to me are Trek and Specialized. It’s like the classic tale of the seasoned veteran versus the innovative trailblazer.

Trek, with its vast array of options and years of experience, is like the wise old sage of the bike world. I remember my first Trek bike, a reliable companion that served me well on many adventures.

On the other hand, we have Specialized, mavericks of the bike industry. They’re the ones who introduced us to the first carbon fiber bikes, forever changing the game. I’ll never forget the first time I rode a Specialized bike , the feeling of cutting-edge technology at my fingertips was exhilarating.

So, who comes out on top? Is it Trek, with its wide variety of bikes and years of experience? Or is it Specialized, with its relentless innovation and boundary-pushing technology? Strap in, because we’re about to delve into this epic showdown between two titans of the biking world.

Trek vs Specialized Bikes

• Trek:  Known for their durability and high quality, Trek bikes are like the heavyweight champions of the bike world. They might be a bit more expensive, but you’re paying for a bike that’s built to last. Plus, with a wider range of models, Trek offers something for every kind of rider.
• Specialized:  These bikes are the featherweights of the industry – lighter and nimbler, but perhaps not as durable as their Trek counterparts. They might not have as many models, but what they lack in variety, they make up for in innovation.

So, who’s the winner in the Trek vs Specialized showdown? Well, that depends on you. If you’re the type of rider who values durability and quality, and you’re willing to shell out a bit more cash, then Trek might be your champion. But if you’re looking for a lighter ride and you’re okay with sacrificing some durability, then Specialized could be the one holding up the belt.

Remember, the best bike for you depends on your budget, riding style, and desired features. So, choose your champion wisely!

Founded in 1976 by bike racer Dick Burke and frame builder Bevil Hogg, Trek entered the ring with a vision for high-quality, lightweight bikes. They started out with hand-built steel frames , but soon moved on to aluminum and other materials, always staying ahead of the curve.

Today, Trek has over 700 dealers in North America and Europe. They offer a wide range of bikes, from entry-level rides to high-end racing machines. It’s like a candy store for those who enjoy riding these.

Their most popular model is the Domane , a road bike that’s all about comfort and stability. The heavyweight champion of road bikes, it features a unique frame construction that shields the rider from road vibrations. It’s perfect for those long, grueling rides where comfort is key.

But Trek isn’t just about traditional bikes . They’ve also got a line of electric bikes , the Powerfly. These bikes come with a motor and battery that give the rider a helping hand, making it easier to tackle hills and long distances.

So, if you’re looking for a bike that’s built to last and offers a wide range of options, Trek might just be your champion. With their diverse lineup, there’s bound to be a Trek bike that’s perfect for you.

Our pick: Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2

Trek Marlin 5 Gen 2 definitely stands out as a top pick. This model truly embodies the essence of Trek’s versatile line. Priced reasonably, it provides an entry point for mountain biking enthusiasts without compromising on quality.

It is equipped with SR Suntour’s 100 mm of travel and is adorned with Bontrager tires that are 2.20″ wide. This makes it an ideal companion for XC riders, those who tread on mild trails, and even for those daily commutes on roads that aren’t perfectly paved.

A standout feature is its hydraulic disc brakes, which are a rarity in the entry-level trail segment. These brakes significantly elevate the on-trail experience. Paired with Shimano Altus components and a 2×8 drivetrain, this model is set to impress.

• Excellent for mountain beginners
• Versatile for trails and commutes
• Hydraulic brakes for better control
• Reasonably priced
• Might need upgrades over time
• Limited to hardtail design

Specialized Bikes

Founded in 1974 by Mike Sinyard , Specialized has been delivering knockout punches in the form of high-quality bicycles for nearly five decades.

Sinyard was inspired by the European cycling culture and wanted to bring that same level of quality and passion back to the States. Starting in a humble garage, Specialized has since grown into a major player in the bike world, with a fan base that spans from amateurs to professionals.

Specialized offers a wide range of bicycles, from road to mountain, and even kids’ bikes. They also offer cycling accessories and apparel, making them a one-stop shop for all your cycling needs.

But what really sets Specialized apart is their innovative spirit. They were one of the first companies to produce mass-produced carbon fiber bicycles, and they’re always looking for ways to improve the cycling experience for their customers.

With a strong presence in the United States, Europe, Asia, and Australia, Specialized bikes are available all over the world. You can find Specialized dealers in most major cities, making it easy to get your hands on one of their quality bikes.

So, if you’re looking for a bike that’s built to last and offers a wide range of options, Specialized might just be your champion. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, there’s a Specialized bike that’s perfect for you.

Our pick: Specialized Allez

The Specialized Allez emerges as a distinguished contender in the world of road bicycles. Drawing from firsthand encounters, it’s clear that this model masterfully merges top-tier quality, adaptability, and ease of use.

Crafted with a robust aluminum structure and complemented by a sleek carbon fork, the Allez promises both resilience and a feather-light touch. Its advanced Shimano Claris gear system, paired with an 8-speed, 11-32 Sunrace cassette and a 50/34t chainring, empowers riders to tackle steep terrains and maintain an impressive speed effortlessly.

Designed with an endurance-focused geometry, the Allez ensures riders remain comfortable, whether embarking on extensive journeys or swift city rides. As a standout selection from Specialized’s lineup, the Allez epitomizes the ideal road partner.

• Premium aluminum and carbon composition
• Dynamic gear setup
• Exceptional value for the price
• Adaptable for varied ride durations
• Preference for disc over rim brakes
• 8-speed cassette range

Trek Bikes Range

Trek comes out swinging with a wide range of bikes for every type of rider. Whether you’re a road warrior looking for speed, a mountain biker seeking adventure, or just someone who enjoys a leisurely ride, Trek has got you covered.

Their road bikes are like the sprinters of the bike world, built for speed and endurance. Whether you’re looking to shave seconds off your time or just enjoy a long ride, Trek has a road bike for you.

Their mountain bikes are the off-road champions, built to handle everything from cross-country riding to downhill thrills. If you’re looking for a bike that can handle all kinds of terrain, Trek’s mountain bikes are a great option.

Trek’s hybrid bikes are all-rounders, combining the best features of road and mountain ones. They’re perfect for city riding and trail exploration.

And let’s not forget about the kids. Trek offers a wide range of kids’, from balance to mountain bikes. If you’re looking for a bike that your child will love, Trek has a great option for you.

Trek also offers a wide range of accessories, from helmets and gloves to bike racks and trailers. No matter what your riding needs are, Trek has you covered.

Specialized Bikes Range

Specialized counters with their own range of high-quality bikes. From road and mountain biking to city commuting and leisure riding, Specialized has a bike for every need.

Their road bikes are like the racehorses of the bike world, designed for speed and agility. Models like the Tarmac and Venge are built for speed, while the Roubaix and Diverge are perfect for tackling tougher terrain. And if you’re just starting out, the Allez is a great entry-level option.

For mountain bikers , Specialized offers the Epic, Enduro, and Stumpjumper. These bikes offer different levels of suspension and durability to suit different riding styles.

And for those looking for a versatile and stylish ride, Specialized’s hybrid and city bikes are excellent options.

No matter what your cycling needs, Specialized has a bike to suit. With a wide range of models and styles available, there’s something for everyone.

The bike frame. This is like the skeleton of your bike, and choosing the right one is crucial.

First up, consider your riding style. If you’re a road warrior who loves the feel of smooth pavement under your tires, a Specialized  frame might be your champion. But if you’re an off-road adventurer who craves the thrill of the trail, the frame of a Trek mountain bike might be your winner.

Next, let’s talk about frame material. Specialized tends to favor aluminum or carbon fiber frames , while Trek usually sticks with aluminum. Carbon fiber is like the featherweight champion – lighter and stronger than aluminum, but also more expensive. So, if you’re looking for a lightweight ride and don’t mind spending a bit more, Specialized might be your pick.

Finally, consider the frame size. This is like choosing the right weight class. You’ll want a frame that’s the right size for your height and weight. If you’re stuck between two sizes, it’s usually better to go with the larger one. After all, in the ring of bike riding, size matters.

Choosing between a Trek or Specialized bike frame is like choosing your champion. It’s a personal decision that depends on your riding style, preferred frame material, and size. But by considering these factors, you can find the perfect frame for you.

This is like the engine, and both Trek and Specialized offer a wide range of options. But just like in a boxing match, there are some key differences between the two.

Trek has strong but more entry-level groupsets, like the Shimano Tourney. This is perfect for the beginner cyclists, those just stepping into the ring for the first time.

Specialized meanwhile produces more high-end groupsets, like the SRAM RED eTap AXS. This is for the seasoned pros, those who’ve been in the ring for a while and are looking for top-notch performance.

Both brands offer a wide range of mid-range groupsets, like Shimano’s Ultegra and SRAM’s Force. But Trek’s groupsets tend to be slightly cheaper than Specialized’s, making them a great option for the budget-conscious cyclists, those who want a good fight without breaking the bank.

When it comes to their best groupsets, both Trek and Specialized offer options from Shimano and SRAM. But Trek pulls a surprise punch by being the only brand that offers Campagnolo’s flagship groupset, the Super Record.

Now, let’s roll into the topic of bike wheels . This is like the footwork of your bike, and both Trek and Specialized offer a wide range of options. But just like in a boxing match, there are some key differences between the two.

• Trek has a wide range of wheel sizes, while Specialized focuses primarily on the 27.5″ and 29″ options.
• When it comes to material, both brands offer aluminum and carbon fiber options.
• In terms of weight, Trek wheels tend to come in lighter than Specialized wheels
• As for spokes, Trek wheels typically have more spokes than Specialized wheels
• And finally, when it comes to price, Trek wheels are typically more expensive than Specialized wheels.

So, whether you’re looking for a wide range of sizes, a specific material, a lighter weight, more spokes, or a certain price point, both Trek and Specialized have wheels that can meet your needs.

Now, let’s talk about the tires. Both Trek and Specialized offer a wide range of options. But there are some key differences between the two.

Trek Tires:

• Fast Rolling
• Prone to punctures
• Not as comfortable as some other brands

Specialized Tires:

• Comfortable
• Good grip in wet conditions
• Slower rolling
• More expensive than some other brands

So, who’s the winner in the Trek vs Specialized tire showdown? Well, that depends on you.

If you’re looking for a fast-rolling tire that’s good in dry conditions, Trek might be your champion. But if you’re looking for a comfortable tire that performs well in wet conditions, Specialized could be the one holding up the belt.ds.

Bike brakes are one of the most important components on a bike, and there are a few different types to choose from.

Trek and Specialized offer different brake options on their products, so it’s important to know which one is right for you before making a purchase.

Here’s a quick overview of the different brakes offered by Trek and Specialized:

Trek Brakes:

• Rim brakes: These are the most common type of brake, and they work by using pads to grip the rim of the wheel. Rim brakes are simple and reliable, but they can be less powerful than other types of brakes.
• Disc brakes: Disc brakes are more powerful than rim brakes, and they work by using pads to grip a disc that is attached to the wheel. Disc brakes are more expensive than rim brakes, but they offer better performance in all conditions.

Specialized Brakes:

• Rim brakes: Specialized offers rim brakes, and these work in the same way as Trek’s rim brakes.
• Disc brakes: Specialized offers disc brakes, and these work in the same way as Trek’s disc brakes.
• Drum brakes: Drum brakes are a type of disc brake that is encased in a housing. Drum brakes offer the same performance as other types of disc brakes, but they are more expensive.

It depends on your budget and riding conditions. If you’re looking for the best possible performance, disc brakes are the way to go.

If you’re on a tight budget, rim brakes will be just fine. And if you’re looking for something in between, drum brakes might be the perfect option.

Whatever you choose, make sure you get the right brakes for your bike and your riding style to stay safe and keep in mind to check if the brakes are gripping like they’re supposed to.

Next up, the brakes. Both Trek and Specialized offer a wide range of options, but there are some key differences between the two.

Specialized Saddles:

• Well-padded for comfort
• Generally wider than Trek saddles
• Some models have a cut-out section in the center to relieve pressure on sensitive areas

Trek Saddles:

• Narrower than Specialized saddles
• More minimalist designs
• Often favored by racers and hard-core riders who don’t need as much padding

If you’re looking for the best possible performance, disc brakes might be your champion. If you’re on a tight budget, rim brakes could be the one holding up the belt. And if you’re looking for something in between, drum brakes might be your pick.

Riding Experience

Now, let’s talk about the riding experience. Both Trek and Specialized offer a great ride. But there are some key differences between the two.

• Trek bikes come out strong with a more upright riding position. This position is preferred by some riders for comfort on long rides.
• Specialized bikes have a more aggressive riding position. This position can be better for climbing and racing.

Both brands offer a wide range of bikes to suit different riding styles and budgets. They both brands offer high-quality bicycles in all weight classes.

Which One To Choose?

Choosing between a Trek and a Specialized bike is like choosing between two boxing champions. Both brands are well-known and respected in the cycling world, so it can be tough to decide which one is right for you. Here are some things to consider when you’re in the ring making your decision:

• First, consider your budget. Just like choosing between a title fight and a local match, Trek and Specialized offer bikes at a range of price points. So, you’ll need to figure out how much you’re willing to spend before making a decision.
• Next, think about the type of riding you’ll be doing. If you’re mostly going to be dancing around the ring on the road, a road bike from either brand would be a good choice. But if you’re interested in going off-road, like mountain biking, then you’ll want to look at the specialized models from each company.

Then, consider the weight. If you’re looking for a bike that’s lightweight and easy to maneuver, like a featherweight boxer, Trek might be the better option. Specialized bikes are typically on the heavier side, like a heavyweight boxer.

Finally, think about your riding style. Trek are known for being stable and comfortable, like a boxer with a strong defense. On the other hand, Specialized are more aggressive and fast, like a boxer with a strong offense. So, if you’re looking for a leisurely ride, Trek might be your champion . But if you’re looking to race or get some serious exercise, Specialized might be your title holder.

How do the warranties compare between Trek and Specialized bikes?

Both companies offer warranties, but the terms and durations may differ. It’s essential to check the warranty details for the specific bike you’re interested in.

Do both Trek and Specialized offer electric bikes?

Yes, both brands have ventured into the e-bike market and offer various models for different riding styles and needs.

Which brand is more innovative in terms of technology?

Both have made significant innovations in bike technology over the years. Specialized is often recognized for its unique features and designs, while Trek is known for its extensive research and development.

Can I customize bikes on both Trek and Specialized websites?

Many models from both brands offer some level of customization, whether it’s color options, components, or other features. Check their official websites for detailed customization options.

How do Trek and Specialized road bikes compare in terms of performance?

Performance can vary based on the model and components used. Both brands have strong presences in the road cycling community and offer bikes that cater to beginners to professional racers.

Where are Trek and Specialized bikes made?

Both brands have global operations. While many of their high-end models are designed in the USA, manufacturing can be global. It’s best to check the specifics for each bike model.

Reflecting on this epic showdown between Trek and Specialized, I’m reminded of my own journey as a cyclist. I’ve had the pleasure of riding both brands and can vouch for their quality and performance.

Trek, with its vast array of options and emphasis on comfort and durability, is like the reliable workhorse of the cycling world. I remember the countless adventures I’ve had on my Trek bike, each one a testament to its enduring quality.

On the flip side, Specialized, with its innovative spirit and focus on performance, is like the spirited stallion of the bike industry. The thrill of riding a Specialized bike, with its cutting-edge technology, is an experience that’s hard to forget.

So, who comes out on top in this Trek vs Specialized showdown? Well, that’s a decision that ultimately rests with you. It’s about finding the bike that best fits your needs, budget, and riding style. Whether you value durability and comfort or innovation and performance, both Trek and Specialized have something to offer.

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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 SL 5 Gen 4

Roubaix SL8 Sport 105

(descending)

Based on build material and quality level of the frame, fork, wheelset, groupset, suspension system, and more.