Brief Domane SLR7 Review
#1
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Brief Domane SLR7 Review
I had a 2014 Domane 4.3, the original V1 of the IsoSpeed. Was 105 DT and their heavier carbon frame. Probably weighed in around 19 pounds. Now, I wasn't unhappy with the 4.3. It rode very well and I didn't have a lot of complaints.
Gifted myself a 2019 white SLR 7 Disc recently. A pound lighter plus electronics and V2 dampening (now on the front, plus adjustable rear)
Holy cow...does this thing smoke! Ultegra Di2, better wheels. I can't even describe how smooth this bike rides and how utterly capable it is of producing a massive smile on my face! Frankly, it had better be that good at this price! What's amazing is that the geometry is identical to my 4.3.
The front end dives into corners where the 4.3 tended to track straight. With an 11-32, it climbs well and doesn't spin out at speed. The IsoSpeed is real; clean, unobtrusive and effective.
I didn't spend a lot of time testing riding other frames, pretty much know I wanted to make this jump without too much thinking. Did consider the Emonda, but happy with the decision to stick with the Domane.
Gifted myself a 2019 white SLR 7 Disc recently. A pound lighter plus electronics and V2 dampening (now on the front, plus adjustable rear)
Holy cow...does this thing smoke! Ultegra Di2, better wheels. I can't even describe how smooth this bike rides and how utterly capable it is of producing a massive smile on my face! Frankly, it had better be that good at this price! What's amazing is that the geometry is identical to my 4.3.
The front end dives into corners where the 4.3 tended to track straight. With an 11-32, it climbs well and doesn't spin out at speed. The IsoSpeed is real; clean, unobtrusive and effective.
I didn't spend a lot of time testing riding other frames, pretty much know I wanted to make this jump without too much thinking. Did consider the Emonda, but happy with the decision to stick with the Domane.
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#3
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I recently bought a Domane SLR 5. It's similar enough that I think I understand what you like about the bike.
The IsoSpeed really works. There are times I feel like I'm floating. The SLR 5 has an 11-34 cassette. So far, I'm never wanting for a lower gear. There have been a few times, on a mostly flat ride, I wish I had a 12-25 and tighter gear spacing. But that's a minor complaint
My biggest complaint is that the saddle really hurts after about 45 minutes. The next 45 minutes are fine as the discomfort settles in. And the last 30 minutes of a two hour ride are no fun.
Oh. And I really like have 32mm tires.
The IsoSpeed really works. There are times I feel like I'm floating. The SLR 5 has an 11-34 cassette. So far, I'm never wanting for a lower gear. There have been a few times, on a mostly flat ride, I wish I had a 12-25 and tighter gear spacing. But that's a minor complaint
My biggest complaint is that the saddle really hurts after about 45 minutes. The next 45 minutes are fine as the discomfort settles in. And the last 30 minutes of a two hour ride are no fun.
Oh. And I really like have 32mm tires.
#4
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Saddle fit is a thing...I've been there, for years, and recently decided to get measured. Once I got on the right size saddle, all my discomfort evaporated. It'll make the bike feel as enjoyable at hour 3, 4, or 10 as it did in hour 1.
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#6
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I recently bought a Domane SLR 5. It's similar enough that I think I understand what you like about the bike.
The IsoSpeed really works. There are times I feel like I'm floating. The SLR 5 has an 11-34 cassette. So far, I'm never wanting for a lower gear. There have been a few times, on a mostly flat ride, I wish I had a 12-25 and tighter gear spacing. But that's a minor complaint
The IsoSpeed really works. There are times I feel like I'm floating. The SLR 5 has an 11-34 cassette. So far, I'm never wanting for a lower gear. There have been a few times, on a mostly flat ride, I wish I had a 12-25 and tighter gear spacing. But that's a minor complaint
#7
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No doubt!
This was a retirement gift to myself, as I leave the workforce tomorrow. Wanted to buy a great bike once in my life and this is it. Spent a lot of time considering that this was really going to be 'stupid' money. It is. But no regrets!
This was a retirement gift to myself, as I leave the workforce tomorrow. Wanted to buy a great bike once in my life and this is it. Spent a lot of time considering that this was really going to be 'stupid' money. It is. But no regrets!
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#8
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Two years into my Domane SLR 6 Disc and still love it. It's heavy, but I'm not racing.
I run 28s at a pretty low pressure. What are you running your 32s at?
I run 28s at a pretty low pressure. What are you running your 32s at?
#9
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Congrats and well deserved! I loved my original 2013 Domane frame that I built up. I can only imagine the newer versions are so much better. FWIW, halfnour Club is retirees who easily outride the bulk of us since they ride so much!
Enjoy your retirement and ride safe!
Enjoy your retirement and ride safe!
#10
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This is the most valid reason for a bike purchase I've ever read on this forum. Congrats and enjoy the bike and the free time!