I am needing some advice on a purchase I’m looking to get a Domane SL $3799 or AL for $2099. I plan on riding for 100+ miles. Me being new to the game I wanted some input to see if carbon was worth the price difference or if I’d be better off upgrading the AL. Any advice would help thanks!
by MrMan0625
8 Comments
I have the sl5 gen4 and it’s pretty sweet. I would recommend it as in my opinion it’s the best affordable carbon bike (entry level carbon if that’s a thing).
I don’t know how much experience you have or how long you’ve been riding though, if you’re looking to start getting into cycling you should probably consider a used aluminum bike (can be found for like $500 or less) and then upgrade to carbon after a few years if you’re into it. If used is too much of a hassle go to a bike shop if you can and ask about affordable beginner road bikes. Most people wouldn’t give a new Mercedes to a 16 year old learning to drive, ya know.
If you know what you’re doing or if you have unlimited money go with the carbon imo
New to the game how? As in you’ve never ridden anything with dropbars before?
An aluminium frame would be better for a beginner imo. But if you have the money then suuuure, got for the nice and shiny carbon frame bike.
I got the sl5 back in 2000. A month before the pandemic started. It cost $2300. Amazing bike. I still ride it every week.
I guess I would advise the aluminum bike if you are just starting out. Never know, you may not care for it as much as you plan. The aluminum bikes are very good, upgradable and will give you all of the experience of riding regularly. Another option is looking used in your size. This time of year is great for used bike bargains from people with expensive bikes sitting in their garage or basement that were intended to be used but for whatever reason ended up mostly in storage. Trek also has a red barn used program with a lot of bikes at a good discount in excellent condition. If you can find a bike you want in your size you’ll save a grand or more from new.
I got an AL4 in 2024. I just started riding and I didn’t know if I would keep riding after the newness wore off. It worked fine and I kept riding. I upgraded to the SL5 a year later after the AL4 frame was warrantied. I think the biggest surprising difference was the carbon ride feel was smoother and more comfortable. The 105 vs. the Tiagra drivetrain was also surprising. The 105 just worked better, shifted easier, and required less fiddling with adjustments.
Ride both.
I was in the same boat as you and ultimately went for the sl5. The carbon frame will significantly help for comfort on long rides especially since you’re planning to do an ironman. So far mine’s been great. I did get mine for $2899 brand new on a closeout sale just a few months ago so I’d recommend holding out for a bit or looking at used
Carbon is nice but at 3.8k a very tough sell. Its a nice frame but otherwise basic bike and parts. Kinda insane they are asking 3.8k for that. (Also goes for the AL5 but to a lesser extend.) I do see the SL versions on sale quite often tho. An SL with a nice discount would probably be my preference.