I have two bikes. One is a $7k+ Cervelo S-Series, and the other is a <$1K Trek Domane AL 2. With the same perceived effort applied, my Cervelo goes much faster. I am able to routinely hit above 20mph mark with ease, whereas with the Trek, I struggle even to get up to 17/18mph. The Trek is noticeably more difficult to ride. I feel like I need to apply so much more effot to the pedals in order to get the bike to move. I would like to upgrade the Trek so that for any given wattage, it goes faster.
My question is, what exactly is making the Trek so much slower than the Cervelo? A few things come to mind.
- Aerodynamics
- Weight
- Rolling resistance.
The Cervelo is more aerodynamic, but it doesn't seem like the resistance I feel is because of aerodynamics.
The Cervelo is lighter, but only by 3.5 lbs. Again, doesn't seem to be the biggest culprit.
I have Continentall GP 5000 tires on the Cervelo, and just the stock basic Bontrager tires on the Trek, so that could be part of it?
For me, it seems like the Shimano Claris groupset is the biggest culprit. It feels very clunky. Would upgrading to a Shimano 105 be something to consider for this bike?