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Started as a complete novice on a Domane AL 2 Gen 4 with mechanical brakes and 8-speed Claris. A year later, with better skills and fitness, they outgrew the drivetrain and are having 12-speed 105 fitted.
“I bought the Al2 Gen 4, with mechanical brakes and 8 speed claris. One year later,better biking skills ,better fitness now as well. Just updated to 12 speed 105 ,still in the shop getting installed.”
Overall happy with a Domane AL 2 Gen 4, but the 8-speed Claris cassette leaves them between gears at their preferred cadence. Considering swapping the stock 11-34 for a 12-28 to get closer gear steps, since the Chicago area has few real climbs.
“Overall happy with my Domane Al 2 Gen 4, but the 8 speed Shimano Claris cassette has been killing me - feels like I’m always between gears for preferred cadence.”
Has had a Domane AL 2 Gen 4 for a year for road and gravel, chosen over a Checkpoint for its 2x gearing. Rode the Delaware tow path on the stock 32 mm tyres without trouble, finds it comfortable with fine Claris shifting, and has fitted tubeless Girona Pro tyres for trail bikepacking.
“I rode road and gravel last year on the Delaware Tow Path with no problems on the stock 32’s. The bike is comfortable and shifts fine with the Clairis.”
Commutes daily on a Domane AL 2 and calls it the perfect commuter for the price. It is heavy for a road bike, the mechanical disc brakes are slow to bed in, and it is not the most comfortable on gravel; recommends replacing the stock tyres.
“I use it for the daily commute and it's perfect. It is heavy for a road bike, and the mechanical disc brakes don't bed in very quickly, but it's a pleasure for only $1500 Aussie bucks.”
Moved up from a Trek FX1 hybrid to a Domane AL 2 Gen 4 a year after starting to ride, loves it and rode their first near-century on it. Thinks the AL 4 with Tiagra and hydraulic brakes is the sweet spot if the budget allows, and plans to keep the AL 2 for years.
“I started cycling in June 2023 on an FX1. Got a Domane AL2 Gen 4 the following summer and I love it. I completed my first (almost) century last summer.”
A lifelong road and mountain biker who races an Émonda keeps a Domane AL 2 Gen 4 for relaxed rides and, with different tyres, gravel. Loves the frame and the comfortable, welcoming position; the stock groupset leaves a lot to be desired next to Ultegra Di2 but is solid and does the job.
“have this exact same bike for chill rides with the spouse or swapping tires and using it as a gravel bike. I absolutely love this bike, the frame feels great and the ergonomics are comfortable and welcoming.”