Exploring the Trek Domane+ SLR
Trek’s latest range of road e-bikes is based around the lightweight TQ motor, which is nearly silent in operation. In theory, Trek holds out a coat to the rest of its e-road bike competition and politely asks them to leave the room.
About the Trek Domane+ SLR
Trek announced: “The all-new Domane+ SLR weighs in at just around 11.8 kg thanks to a lightweight frame design and compact e-system. The TQ harmonic pin ring e-system is remarkably lightweight, quiet, and compact while packing enough extra power for the most epic adventures.”
The Domane+ SLR uses Endurance Geometry, compared to the H1.5 geometry found on Madone and Émonda. According to Trek, Endurance Geometry means a taller head tube and longer wheelbase to “maximize comfort and stability.”
All Domane+ SLR bikes in the new range come with tubeless-ready wheels, tires, valves, and TLR sealant.
The TQ Harmonic Pin Ring motor functions differently from other e-bike motors. Most other e-bike motors use gears and belts to transmit power. TQ says these parts take up more space and can make noise or break. The HPR50 uses a harmonic drive transmission that’s small, simple, and dependable.
The TQ system’s specs
The Domane+ SLR offers up to 300 watts of assist, 50Nm of torque, and a 360Wh battery. It has a maximum assist speed of 28mph in the US, 25 kph in the EU and Australia, and 45 kph in New Zealand, and other markets will be subject to local speed regulations.
“The Domane+ SLR doesn’t look, sound fit, or feel like an electric bike. It boasts a
lightweight carbon frame, whisper quiet motor, sleek controls and a road-specific tune for a true road bike experience with a subtle and powerful boost wherever you need it.” (Trek)
The weight is 25.90 lb on the top-of-the-line model, costing $12,999.99. But the range begins with a $8,499.99 starting price. So it’s not a cheap product, highlighted by its compatibility with electronic drivetrains only.
The battery is a 360-watt/hour unit integrated, which can take riders to a range of around 60 miles in Eco mode (or around 90 miles) with the optional 160-watt range extender.
Our Trek Domane+ SLR Verdict
Trek looks to have developed a possible market-leading product that could shake up the road e-bike market and make the competition really pay attention. Furthermore, the Domane+ SLR range can easily transition from road to gravel due to the wide choice of tire options available. So we expect to see great sales for this innovative product.
Further expanding on the range, Trek says: “The Domane+ SLR was built with the same rider-friendly features as the traditional Domane, including rear IsoSpeed to smooth bumps in the road and a stable endurance geometry for long haul comfort.”
Explore more leading electric bikes in our guides to the best e-bikes of 2023 and explore how to choose your perfect e-bike.
