trek rail 9 usata

• Rider Notes

2021 Trek Rail 9.8 XT

A 29″ carbon frame full suspension enduro e-bike with high-end components. Compare the full range

Manufacturer Price

For This Bike

View more similar bikes →

Based on frame geometry and build specs.

A bike with lower gearing will be easier to ride up steep hills, while a higher top end means it will pedal faster down hills.

Rail 9.8 XT

Similar Bikes

(descending)

Add custom gearing

Based on build material and quality level of the frame, fork, wheelset, groupset, suspension system, and more.

Compare the full Rail model range

Apr 2022 · BHowell

An excellent e-bike with a lot of electronics.

Well rounded ride

Suspension quality

Powerful Bosch motor

Seat angle could be steeper

Vulnerable Bosch controller and Kiox

Read Review

Mar 2022 · Guy Kesteven

Trek’s Rail 9.9 eMTB is loaded with carbon fiber and wireless tech. Guy Kesteven explores what the pricey Bosch powered flagship is like to ride on a wet and rocky Lake District demo loop

Lightweight yet super precise full carbon frame

Extended enduro geometry

Superbly controlled suspension performance

Latest big battery Bosch Smart System

Full SRAM AXS and Wiz comms componentry

AirWiz feels gimmicky

Mar 2022 · Jeremy Benson

The Rail 9.7 is a powerful electric mountain bike from the Trek Bicycle Company. This 29er has 150mm of rear-wheel travel paired with a 160mm fork and a...

Price: $13549.99.00 | Model Year: 2021, 2022 | Trek's best long-travel electric mountain bike, designed for All Mountain and Enduro Riding. Light weight optimum compaction low void (OCLV) carbon fiber and magnesium frame comes in three sizes. Flip chip spacer in the rear swing arm further refines geometry for low and high settings.

Trek's best long-travel electric mountain bike, designed for All Mountain and Enduro Riding. Light weight optimum compaction low void (OCLV) carbon fiber and magnesium frame comes in three sizes. Flip chip spacer in the rear swing arm further refines geometry for low and high settings.

Available in three premium color schemes, the bike is setup with 29" wheels but can accommodate 27.5" or a mixed mullet setup (smaller rear wheel, larger front). Sturdy 12mm and 15mm thru-axles with Boost hub spacing offer stronger spoke bracing angle. Magnetic 6mm hex wrench quick release lever makes trail-maintenance convenient.

SRAM AXS wireless electronic shifting, dropper post, and air pressure settings and alerts for the tires and suspension. Bosch Smart System LED Remote, Kiox 300 display, PowerTube 750 battery, and CX motor with eBike Flow app. Premium quad-piston hydraulic disc brakes with extra-large 220mm front extra thick front rotor. Bottle cage bosses and ABUS keyed-alike code keyset.

Excellent weight positioning with the motor and battery low and center, but the PowerTube 750 goes from 9.7lbs to 10.8lbs with the color-matched Trek RIB cover and handle. Longer wheelbase due to longer battery design. Two smartphone apps required to configure all of the electronics (SRAM AXS and Bosch eBike Flow). No USB charging with the Bosch LED Remote despite having a USB-C port built in.

Great performance e-bike, killer motor tune, but so many glitchy electronic accessories.

Oct 2021 · Beta

Longer, lower, smarter

Oct 2021 · Matt Beer

The Rail 9.9 now has a 750Wh battery and geometry numbers that are similar to the Slash's.

Trek's Rail e-bike platform is smooth, powerful, and successfully walks the line between trail bike and something bigger.

Last updated July 13 Not listed for 295 days

On Test | The 2021 Trek Rail 9 gets 4 crucial upgrades to take it to the next level

Ooh yes, we’ve just got our dirty paws on the latest version of Trek’s big travel, full suspension e-MTB, the Rail! Essentially an electrified version of the Slash, the Trek Rail is equipped with a 160mm travel fork, 150mm rear travel, 29in wheels and aggressive 2.6in wide tyres. With an eye on big mountain terrain, the Rail’s frame is engineered around the latest 4th generation Bosch Performance CX motor and a big 625Wh battery that stows inside the downtube.

Mick travelled over to the launch of the Rail last year, and you can check out his detailed first look story here for all the ins and outs of this premium long travel electric mountain bike. While Mick was thoroughly impressed with the Rail’s handling and suspension performance, there were still a few areas for improvement. Trek appears to have been listening, because while the chassis carries over for 2021, the Rail has been updated with several key upgrades that are designed to strengthen this bike’s stance amongst an increasingly competitive field. Here we’ll be taking a closer look at our newest test bike, the 2021 Trek Rail 9, to see exactly what’s changed, and why we’re excited to put this e-MTB to the test on home soil.

Essentially an electrified version of the Slash, the Trek Rail is equipped with a 160mm travel fork, 150mm rear travel, 29in wheels and chubby 2.6in wide tyres.

That’s right, the RockShox Lyrik has disappeared from the front of the Rail 9, and in its place is the all-new ZEB, an absolute monster of a fork. Featuring bigger 38mm diameter upper tubes, the ZEB is chunkier than the Lyrik and is designed for big travel enduro bikes, e-MTBs and bikepark-style riding.

The ZEB can be had with 160-190mm of travel. Here in it’s in its shortest travel guise, it gives the Rail a very robust-looking front end. Inside you’ll find the new DebonAir C1 air spring along with the ultra-tuneable Charger RC 2.1 damper, which offers adjustable compression and rebound damping. We’ve already tested the ZEB separately and it’s a brilliant fork that is a welcome addition to the Trek Rail – check out our review of the 2021 RockShox ZEB here .

The 2021 Trek Rail upgrades to the new RockShox ZEB fork and a custom Super Deluxe Ultimate shock, which places a bigger emphasis on grip and high-speed damping control over pedal efficiency. All good things for a big travel e-MTB.

Super Sensitive (And Custom) Super Deluxe

Another big suspension upgrade for the 2021 Trek Rail is the rear shock. It’s a custom shock built by RockShox and designed in collaboration with Jose Gonzalez – the man at the helm of Trek’s Suspension R&D lab in California. This custom Super Deluxe Ultimate shock was first announced a few weeks ago on the brand new 2021 Trek Slash , and Trek has brought it over to the Rail for 2021.

While the shock might not look all that different, it’s what’s on the inside that counts. It still uses the Thru-Shaft damper architecture, but unlike the shock used on the 2020 Trek Rail, there’s no more RE:aktiv valve. Instead, Trek has implemented a standard shim stack, with the goal of prioritising glue-like traction and warp-speed descending control over outright pedal efficiency. That makes total sense for a pedal assisted e-MTB, and in our experience with the new Slash, it’s a seriously impressive shock that should bring greater suppleness and reactivity to the back end of the Rail.

More Powaaah!

The Rail still features the latest Bosch Performance CX Gen 4 engine, though this motor has recently had a significant software update to provide more power and a more natural delivery of that power. There’s now 85Nm of torque (up from 75Nm), and it features an Extended Boost function, so that the motor continues to drive a little longer after you stop pedalling on a tricky technical climb. The eMTB mode has also been refined to be more sensitive to the rider’s inputs, particularly in lower gears, and power delivery is more accessible across a wider cadence range than before.

The newly refined Gen 4 motor comes standard on the 2021 Trek Rail, but it’s worth noting that for those with the 2020 version, you can achieve those same refinements with a simple software upgrade – get in touch with your local Trek dealer to inquire about the upgrade.

Purion Out, Kiox In

Also nice to see is the switch from Bosch’s functional but ageing Purion display to the much more futuristic Kiox display. The head unit sits on the Rail’s top tube just behind the stem, where it’s better protected in the event of a crash. The head unit attaches to its cradle via the sorcery of magnets, while a simple control switch near the left-hand brake lever allows you to change assist modes and scroll through menu options without having to take your hand off the grips.

The display features a sweet colour screen and access to a wider range of metrics on-the-fly, including remaining range, live power output, cadence and riding speed, and it’ll pair via Bluetooth your smartphone to update ride data.

What Models Will There Be In Oz?

For 2021, Trek Australia will have three different models in the Rail lineup, with prices starting at $8,999 AUD for the Rail 7 and going up to $11,799 AUD for the Rail 9.8 XT.

The entry-level option is the Rail 7 . This bike features an Alpha Platinum Alloy chassis, the Bosch Performance CX motor and 625Wh battery, and for 2021 it moves over to a Shimano SLX 1×12 drivetrain with 4-piston brakes. Suspension is handled by a RockShox Yari RC fork and a standard in-line Deluxe shock (the Rail 7 doesn’t get the new custom Super Deluxe Ultimate piggyback shock), and it also relies on the older Purion display.

The Goldilocks bike is what we have here – the Rail 9 . It gets the same chassis, motor and battery as the Rail 7, but upgrades to the new ZEB fork and custom Super Deluxe Ultimate rear shock. As mentioned above, it also gets the new Kiox display, along with chunky 2.6in Bontrager SE5 tyres, powerful 4-piston SRAM Code brakes, and a GX Eagle drivetrain with the new derailleur and 10-52T cassette.

And finally there’s the top-end Rail 9.8 XT model. This is the only Rail model in Australia to feature an OCLV carbon fibre chassis, though the spec is otherwise very similar to the Rail 9 – the fork, shock, wheels, tyres and cockpit are identical. You do get carbon bars though, as well as a Shimano XT 1×12 drivetrain and SLX brakes. Trek claims it’s over 1.5kg lighter as a result, but you’ll be paying a $1,300 premium for that pleasure.

The Rail 9 sits in the middle of the lineup, featuring a tough alloy chassis, Bontrager finishing kit, SRAM Code brakes and the new GX Eagle 1×12 drivetrain – complete with that gargantuan 10-52T cassette.

2021 Trek Rail 9 On Test

Over the coming summer season, we’ll be putting our Trek Rail 9 to the test to see exactly how the new changes play out on the trail. In the meantime, let us know if you’ve got any questions about the Rail 9, and read on for a closer look at the specs and our video review from the Trek Rail launch.

• Frame | Alpha Platinum Alloy, ABP Suspension Design, 150mm Travel
• Fork | RockShox ZEB Select+, Charger RC 2.1 Damper, 44mm Offset, 160mm Travel
• Shock | RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate RT3, Thru-Shaft Damper, 230×57.5 mm
• Drive Unit | Bosch Performance CX Gen 4, 85Nm
• Battery |  Bosch PowerTube 625Wh
• Wheels | Bontrager Line Comp 30, Alloy Rims, 30mm Inner Rim Width
• Tyres | Bontrager SE5 Team Issue, 2.6in Front & Rear
• Drivetrain | SRAM GX Eagle 1×12 w/X1 1000 36T Crankset & GX Eagle 10-52T Cassette
• Brakes | SRAM Code R 4-Piston w/200mm Rotors
• Handle Bar | Bontrager Line, Alloy, 35mm Diameter, 27.5mm Rise, 780mm Wide
• Stem | Bontrager Line, 35mm Diameter, Knock Block, 50mm Long
• Seatpost | Bontrager Line Elite Dropper Post, 31.6mm Diameter, Travel: 100mm (Small), 150mm (Medium), 170mm (Large, X-Large)
• Saddle | Bontrager Arvada Elite
• Claimed Weight | 24.04kg
• RRP | $10,499 AUD

Mo’ Flow Please!

Enjoyed that article? Then there’s plenty more to check out on Flow Mountain Bike, including all our  latest news stories  and  product reviews . And if you haven’t already, make sure you subscribe to our  YouTube  channel, and sign up to our  Facebook  page and  Instagram  feed so you can keep up to date with all things Flow!

• Submit for Review
• Terms & Conditions

Enjoy reading this?

Get similar articles delivered directly to your inbox

• Rocky Mountain
• Specialized
• YT Industries
• Allied Cycle Works
• Black Market
• DALLINGRIDGE
• Diamondback
• Early Rider
• EVO Bicycles
• Growler Bikes
• Guerrilla Gravity
• iGO Electric
• Intense 951
• Juiced Bikes
• View all brands
• Production Privee
• Rad Power Bikes
• Rambo Bikes
• Riese & Müller
• Soul Fast E Bikes
• Spark Cycleworks
• State Bicycle Co.
• Structure Cycleworks
• Surface 604
• Van Nicholas
• Vintage Electric
• We Are One Composites

• Cross Country

• All Mountain

Trek Rail 9.8 XT

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Weight / M - 22.34 kg / 49.25 lbs (with tubes)

At a glance

Where to buy.

Specifications

• Frame OCLV Mountain Carbon main frame, Removable Integrated Battery (RIB), tapered head tube, Knock Block, Control Freak internal routing, magnesium rocker link, Motor Armor, Mino Link, ABP, Boost148, 12mm thru axle, 150mm travel
• Fork RockShox ZEB Select+, DebonAir spring, Charger 2.1 RC damper, eMTB optimized crown, tapered steerer, 44mm offset, Boost110, 15mm Maxle Stealth, 160mm travel
• Shock NEW RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate RT3, DebonAir spring, Thru Shaft 3-position damper, 230x57.5mm
• Tires Size: S, M, L, XL Size: S, M, L, XL
• Chain Shimano XT M8100, 12 speed
• Crank E*thirteen E*spec Plus, 34T, 165mm length
• Shifters Shimano XT M8100, 12 speed
• Cassette Shimano XT M8100, 10-51, 12 speed
• Brakeset Shimano SLX M7120 4-piston hydraulic disc
• Handlebar Bontrager Line Pro, OCLV Carbon, 35mm, 27.5mm rise, 780mm width
• Saddle Bontrager Arvada, austenite rails, 138mm width
• Seatpost Size: S Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 100mm travel, internal routing, 31.6mm, 340mm length Size: M Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 150mm travel, internal routing, 31.6mm, 440mm length
• Stem Bontrager Line Pro, 35mm, Knock Block, Blendr compatible, 0 degree, 45mm length
• Grips Bontrager XR Trail Comp, nylon lock-on
• Headset Knock Block Integrated, 58-degree radius, cartridge bearing, 1-1/8'' top, 1.5'' bottom

Q: Where to buy a 2021 Trek Rail 9.8 XT?

The 2021 Trek Rail 9.8 XT may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: How much does a 2021 Trek Rail 9.8 XT weigh?

A 2021 Trek Rail 9.8 XT weights M - 22.34 kg / 49.25 lbs (with tubes).

Q: What size 2021 Trek Rail 9.8 XT should I get?

No comments on this bike yet. Why not be the first?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Want more MTB in your mailbox?

The latest on mountain bikes delivered straight to your mailbox.

More Bikes in Range View All

Trek Rail 9

Trek Rail 9 GX

Trek Rail 9.5

More e-mountain bikes view all.

Commencal META POWER SX TEAM

Radon Render 9.0

European price: 4799 EUR, Weight given for MD frame size, Internal cable routing

Mondraker CRUSHER

Deals view all, view all deals, recent posts view all.

Blackburn Honest Digital Pressure Gauge Review

It's 2020 people. The squeeze and bounce test doesn't cut it anymore (and this is…

Comparing Mountain Bikes

Mountain Bikes are complicated machines. They have parts from hundreds of different manufacturers, come in…

Undomestic Mountain Bikes: Here’s what we know

Update March 2020: Undomestic has announced that they are manufacturing frames "at this moment" and…

Send Feedback

Have a suggestion? Looking for a bike that's not on MTB Database? Or perhaps you've spotted an error?

We'd love to hear from you. Let us know with the form below.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience possible. Learn more.

About MTB Database

Explore, search and compare thousands of the world’s best mountain bikes here on Mountain Bike Database.

Compare prices, components, suspension, reviews, images and more on current and past MTB’s. You can even share reviews, comments and questions on mountain bikes. View and compare a huge selection of bikes from brands such as Trek , Specialized , Giant , Santa Cruz , Norco and more .

We strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information for mountain bikes on MTB Database. If you’ve spotted any issues, please let us know . We also include helpful tools, such as our frame size calculator, to assist you in choosing the right mountain bike. Bear in mind that these tools serve as a guide and simply provide a general indication. Refer to information provided by your bike manufacturer for the most applicable information for your bike.

Bikes By Brand

Bikes by year, bikes by riding style, bikes by wheel size, popular bikes.

• 2022 Specialized Epic EVO Comp
• 2022 Trek Marlin 6
• 2022 Specialized Enduro Comp
• 2022 Specialized S-Works Epic EVO
• 2022 Specialized Epic EVO Expert
• 2022 Giant Fathom 29 1
• 2022 Trek Marlin 7

Latest Bikes

• 2023 Commencal SUPREME DH V5 SIGNATURE 70'S
• 2023 Orange Phase 29 Factory
• 2022 Commencal META SX V4 TEAM Frame
• 2023 Commencal SUPREME DH V5 SIGNATURE LTD
• 2023 Commencal META SX V4 - Frame
• 2023 Riese & Müller Swing4 vario
• 2023 Riese & Müller Swing4 silent

Trek Rail 9.9 first ride review: fully tech-loaded flagship, long travel, e-MTB

Trek’s rail 9.9 emtb is loaded with carbon fiber and wireless tech. guy kesteven explores what the pricey bosch powered flagship is like to ride on a wet and rocky lake district demo loop.

BikePerfect Verdict

Trek’s Rail 9.9 is definitely excessive rather than essential in terms of spec but it’s a genuinely outstanding superbike with lightweight and responsive, yet unshakeably confident and controlled, Bosch Smart System boosted performance

Lightweight yet super precise full carbon frame

Extended enduro geometry

Superbly controlled suspension performance

Latest big battery Bosch Smart System

Full SRAM AXS and Wiz comms componentry

AirWiz feels gimmicky

Why trust BikePerfect Our cycling experts have decades of testing experience. We'll always share our unbiased opinions on bikes and gear. Find out more about how we test.

Trek’s Rail e-MTB was already one of the best electric mountain bikes available, the 2022 9.9 gets new longer frame geometry based on the excellent Slash Enduro bike .

For information on Bike Perfect's testing procedures and how our scoring system works, see our how we test page.

It also gets a bigger battery, Bosch’s latest Smart System motor and management suite, and a full set of the latest SRAM wireless AXS componentry including unique wireless tire and suspension monitoring tech. Retailing for $13,799.99/£12,600 it’s a vast amount of money though, so does it all add up on the trail?

Design and geometry

At first glance, the new Rail frame looks the same as last year's bike. Trek’s classic rocker link, rear axle concentric ABP suspension, the RIB (Removable Integrated Battery) side entry battery system in the down tube, geometry tweaking MinoLink eccentric shock chip and Knock Block 58-degree steering lock system are all carried over. The head tube on the full carbon frame is now a massive, oversized 1.8in tube though. Reach numbers are extended significantly with the large stretching from 465mm to 491mm and the XL we tested growing to 521mm. That makes the new Rail even longer than Trek’s Slash Enduro bike and makes room for Bosch’s new 750Wh PowerTube battery on every size but the small, which gets a 625Wh cell. The small 9.9 has no space for a bottle either, but a standard bottle fits on the bigger sizes.

While you can get your Rail with any of Trek’s Project One custom options if you’re prepared to wait, the three stock finishes are all very special anyway. The metal flake Dark Prismatic finish of my sample looked stunning when the sun occasionally shone in the Lakes. 

Components and build 

There are two other big upgrades with the Rail 9.9 too. The bigger battery is joined by the latest Smart System bar remote controller and top tube mounted KIOX 300 display. Teamed with the Bosch Flow smartphone app this gives much more customization of modes and displays including biometric wattage and heart rate displays (needs a third party sensor) and servicing/software update prompts. You get one of the best eMTB motors in the form of Bosch’s well-proven Performance Line CX Gen4 motor with 85Nm of torque. This is matched to e*thirteen’s latest Carbon Race cranks with a 34T chainring (the largest the frame will take). Trek also complements the frame finish with the ‘oil’ anodized version of SRAM’s premium XX1 AXS wireless groupset including chain and 10-52T cassette.

SRAM has also given Trek two exclusives for the 9.9. The Zeb Ultimate fork and already Trek only RE:aktiv Thru Shaft Super Deluxe rear shock are both equipped with AirWiz Bluetooth pressure sensors. These let you calculate and then set your target fork/shock air spring pressures in SRAM’s AXS smartphone app. LEDs on the AirWiz fork top cap and shock top block will then flash green or red depending on whether you’re in the sweet spot. TireWiz 2.0 valve sensors do the same for the tire pressure on both wheels. These versions are also custom-shaped to sync with the Bontrager Line Pro carbon rims.

SRAM also provides the excellent Code RSC brakes with 200/180mm rotors. You should get a RockShox Reverb AXS wireless operated post too but our bike came with a Bontrager cable-operated unit. The rest of the kit is top-line Bontrager (Trek's own brand) too. That includes carbon 780mm bars, a 45mm (same on all sizes) stem, and its SE5 and SE6 Enduro tires in 29 x 2.5in sizes. That brings the whole bike in at just over 22kg which is impressively light for a bike with such a large battery.

Ride, handling and performance

I tested the Trek Rail 9.9 at the Wheelbase Cycles Demo Day so bike time was limited and they only had an XL size when I'd normally ride a large. The test trails were excellent though and riding it alongside four other eMTBs from Mondraker, Whyte and Scott meant I could still learn a lot about this flagship e-MTB.

Firstly, despite the massive reach, larger battery, and 64.6-degree head angle (I ran the geometry in the low mode) I was surprised how responsive the Rail still felt. The healthy surge from the Bosch motor certainly helps, but it consistently felt bright and precisely alive in terms of where it put its tires and responded to my weight shifts. That’s partly due to the very accurately metered mid-stroke movement of the RE:aktiv Thru Shaft shock that I’ve previously put plenty of time into on the Slash enduro bike. Despite the oversized headtube and open side of the downtube where the battery slides in, the frame has a really well-balanced feel too. Definitely decisively locked onto whatever trail target you choose but not in a brutal or bruising way. Add the Zeb Ultimate fork upfront and even the most geologically aggressive situations are smoothed very effectively with minimum speed loss. Only 150mm of rear travel, relatively short 446mm chainstays and the shock character means it’s certainly not a dumb or numb ride experience though. So while the sheer length of the XL and the down tube full of battery took some turning compared to a conventional rig or a shorter e-bike it didn’t stop me popping and playing around with whatever features I spotted. 

The welterweight Bontrager carbon wheels work well with the bike too. The lifetime rim warranty removes some of the worries about charging headlong into sharp and pointy situations. The instant pick-up freehub syncs really well with the half kick power surge of the Bosch motor to hoik the Trek up stepped, scramble climbs, or power wheelie it off drops/through puddles. Neutral ABP pedaling action and very supple top end to the suspension stroke means it charges up technical climbs with real relish too, and I could stay on line up rocky sections even when filming GoPro footage one-handed.

The Bontrager tires have largely benefitted from recent updating too. A softer TW top compound right across the tire means they roll slower and wear quicker than previous versions, but braking and driving grip are noticeably better. They’re really consistent in the grip they offer at all lean angles too, so while I was still drifting through high-speed boggy grass sections on the Rail I wasn’t wiping out in comedy 360 spins like those around me. The extended wheelbase definitely helped in these situations too, and once I’d realized how much the big Trek liked getting sideways, that became my grin guaranteeing mission for the rest of the test ride even on loose rock sweepers.

If you want a more trail happy feel as standard on your Rail, it can be set up as a mixed wheel-size mullet bike. The resulting 63.9-degree head, 336mm bottom bracket height geometry would be proper slack and slammed as well. Though the 29er wheels on both ends fitted as standard, definitely help when it comes to smoothing out the trail and keeping speeds higher.

The Rail was one of the Bosch Smart System bikes I rode over the demo weekend and first impressions are very good. There are a lot of buttons on the 3D remote, but they’re reasonably intuitive in terms of placement, and quick glance power setting color swatches are easy to read. The KIOX 300 display is super clean and while the top tube mount means more of a deliberate look down than a bar mount I appreciate the crash-proofing gains. SRAM’s AXS Eagle transmission was as flawless as ever, dramatically reducing hang up or worries when changing gears on the charge. I was nervous about the full carbon cage of the XX1 rear mech when getting loose and sideways in the hills around Staveley though. So while I respect the flagship components flex, I can’t help thinking the semi-metal X01 mech would be a smarter option. As AirWiz is just a pressure communicator, not a tuning guide like the standalone ShokWiz box, it feels more like a gimmick than a genuine gain. Especially as shocks and forks rarely lose air for fun. The TireWiz 2.0 sensors on the other hand give useful quick glance reassurance on a component more likely to lose air though.

Early verdict

Trek already had one of the best-regarded e-MTB platforms around with the Rail and this new frame literally extends its performance even further. Despite the extra reach and full-day ride battery capacity, the handling still feels lively and responsive on top of a rock-solid, surefooted baseline. The carbon frame and carbon component parade mean it’s impressively light too with instant reaction wheels adding extra pop and play. 

While the RE:aktiv Thru Shaft shock adds potential servicing complications, I’ve had nothing but outstanding precision control and smoothness on bikes using it despite several months of combined hard hammering. Bosch motors are generally regarded as the most reliable option and the new Smart System adds a lot of useful functionality and much better rider ergonomics.

While AXS was flawless and the Wiz monitors were fun, I’d certainly suggest that the $9,199.99/£8,900 Rail 9.8 GX (same frame, battery, Smart System and color options) is the sweet spot in terms of performance for the price. Then again Trek UK has already sold through its allotment of 9.9s for this year, so there’s clearly a market, so if you want one you need to start searching dealers as fast as possible.

Tech Specs: Trek Rail 9.9 XX1 AXS

• Price: $13,799.99/£12,600.00
• Model name: Trek Rail 9.9 XX1 AXS
• Discipline: E-enduro
• Head angle: 64.6-degree
• Frame material: EW OCLV Mountain Carbon
• Sizes: M, L, XL(tested)
• Weight: 22.2kg without pedals
• Wheel size: 29x2.5in
• Suspension: RockShox ZEB Ultimate, AirWiz 160mm travel, 44mm offset/RockShox Super Deluxe Thru Shaft, AirWiz 150mm travel
• Drivetrain:  SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS 10-52T 12 speed rear mech, chain, cassette and shifter
• Cranks: e*thirteen e*spec Race carbon, 34T chainset
• Brakes: SRAM CODE RSC brakes with 200/180mm rotors
• Cockpit: Bontrager Line Pro OCLV Carbon 780 x 35mm bar, 45 x 35 mm stem
• Wheelset: Bontrager Line Pro 30
• Tires: Bontrager SE5 Team Issue front and SE6 Team Issue rear 29x2.5in tires T7
• Seatpost: Bontrager 175mm dropper post (RockShox Reverb AXS as standard)
• Saddle: Bontrager Arvada saddle

Guy has been working on Bike Perfect since we launched in 2019. Hatched in Yorkshire he's been hardened by riding round it in all weathers since he was a kid. He spent a few years working in bike shops and warehouses before starting writing and testing for bike mags in 1996. Since then he’s written several million words about several thousand test bikes and a ridiculous amount of riding gear. To make sure he rarely sleeps and to fund his custom tandem habit, he’s also penned a handful of bike-related books and talks to a GoPro for YouTube, too.

Current rides: Cervelo ZFS-5, Forbidden Druid V2, Specialized Chisel, custom Nicolai enduro tandem, Landescape/Swallow custom gravel tandem

Height: 180cm

Weight: 69kg

I tested Cervelo’s new Aspero gravel bike. It still definitely hauls ass, but doesn’t kick it as much in the process

Is Rotor's Kapic crankset and oval Q Ring setup pedaling perfection, or did it leave me riding all out of shape?

It's the Fort William Downhill World Cup weekend. Our news round-up includes top DH launches including the new YT Tues, Vittoria's gravity tire, and we chat with Greg Minnaar

Most Popular

Trek Rail 9.9 X0 AXS T-Type Gen 4 Review

Are you an avid mountain biker looking for the perfect trail companion? Look no further than the Trek Rail 9.9 X0 AXS T-Type Gen 4.

This top-of-the-line electric mountain bike is packed with impressive features and cutting-edge technology that will elevate your off-road adventures to new heights.

Mountain biking has become increasingly popular in recent years, and with that, the demand for high-performance bikes has soared.

Trek, a renowned name in the cycling industry, has consistently delivered exceptional bikes that cater to the needs of avid riders.

The Trek Rail 9.9 X0 AXS T-Type Gen 4 is their latest offering, and it promises to revolutionize the way you experience the trails.

In this review, we will delve into the key features of the Trek Rail 9.9 X0 AXS T-Type Gen 4 and explore why it has garnered such rave reviews from biking enthusiasts.

Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner looking to upgrade your gear, this bike has the potential to take your mountain biking adventures to the next level.

So, let’s dive in and discover what makes the Trek Rail 9.9 X0 AXS T-Type Gen 4 a force to be reckoned with in the world of electric mountain bikes.

– Full suspension design: The Trek Rail 9.9 X0 AXS T-Type Gen 4 features a full suspension setup with 150mm of travel. This allows for a smooth and controlled ride, even on rough and challenging terrain.

– Carbon frame: The bike is constructed with a lightweight and durable OCLV Mountain Carbon main frame, providing strength and stiffness without adding unnecessary weight.

– Advanced drivetrain: Equipped with the SRAM X0 Eagle AXS, T-Type electronic drivetrain, the Trek Rail 9.9 X0 AXS T-Type Gen 4 offers precise and effortless shifting. This system allows for seamless gear changes, ensuring optimal performance in any situation.

– Powerful brakes: The bike features SRAM Code Silver 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes, providing reliable and powerful stopping power. Whether you’re tackling steep descents or navigating tight corners, these brakes offer excellent control and confidence.

– Adjustable suspension: The suspension system on the Trek Rail 9.9 X0 AXS T-Type Gen 4 is fully adjustable, allowing riders to fine-tune their setup to match their riding style and preferences. This ensures maximum comfort and efficiency on the trails.

– Tubeless-ready wheels: The bike comes with Bontrager Line Pro 30 wheels that are tubeless-ready. This allows for lower tire pressures, better traction, and reduced risk of flats, enhancing overall performance and confidence on the trails.

– Integrated battery: The bike features an integrated Bosch PowerTube 750Wh battery system for the medium and larger sizes, the small frame gets a 625Wh battery, providing power to the electronic drivetrain. This design keeps the battery securely in place and maintains a clean and streamlined appearance.

– Modern geometry: The Trek Rail 9.9 X0 AXS T-Type Gen 4 is designed with modern geometry, featuring a slack head angle and a longer reach. This provides stability at high speeds and improved handling in technical terrain.

– Suspension lockout: The bike is equipped with a suspension lockout feature, allowing riders to quickly and easily switch between fully active suspension and a more efficient rigid mode. This is especially useful for climbing or riding on smooth surfaces.

– Dropper seatpost: The bike comes with a RockShox Reverb AXS dropper seatpost, allowing riders to quickly adjust their saddle height on the fly. This is particularly beneficial when transitioning between uphill and downhill sections, improving comfort and control.

Nukeproof Megawatt 297 Factory Review

Trek E-Caliber 9.9 XX1 AXS Gen 1 Review

REI Co-op Cycles DRT e3.1 Electric Bike Review

One of the standout features of the Trek Rail 9.9 X0 AXS T-Type Gen 4 is its powerful motor.

Equipped with a Bosch Performance Line CX motor, this bike delivers a smooth and consistent power output from the 85Nm of torque.

Whether you’re climbing steep hills or accelerating on flat terrain, the motor provides ample assistance to make your ride more enjoyable.

The bike also features a high-capacity Bosch PowerTube 625 Wh battery on the small frame and a 750Wh for the others, which provides impressive range for long rides.

With this battery, you can expect to cover more ground without worrying about running out of power.

Additionally, the battery is easily removable, allowing for convenient charging both on and off the bike.

The suspension system on the Trek Rail 9.9 X0 AXS T-Type Gen 4 is another highlight.

It comes equipped with a RockShox ZEB Ultimate fork with 160mm of travel, providing excellent control and absorption of bumps and obstacles on the trail.

The rear suspension is handled by a RockShox Super Deluxe Thru Shaft shock, which further enhances the bike’s ability to handle rough terrain.

When it comes to components, the Trek Rail 9.9 X0 AXS T-Type Gen 4 does not disappoint.

It features the new and nearly indestructible SRAM X0 Eagle AXS, T-Type 1×12 drivetrain, which offers precise and smooth shifting.

The bike also comes with SRAM Code Silver 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes, ensuring reliable stopping power in all conditions.

The combination of these high-quality components ensures that you can ride with confidence and control.

Another notable feature of the Trek Rail 9.9 X0 AXS T-Type Gen 4 is its sleek and modern design.

The frame is made from lightweight and durable OCLV Mountain Carbon main frame, providing a sturdy and responsive ride.

The bike also features integrated cable routing, which not only adds to its aesthetics but also protects the cables from damage.

Overall, the Trek Rail 9.9 X0 AXS T-Type Gen 4 is a top-of-the-line electric mountain bike that delivers exceptional performance and reliability.

Whether you’re a seasoned rider looking to take your skills to the next level or a beginner wanting to explore the world of mountain biking, this bike is a great choice.

With its powerful motor, long-range battery, advanced suspension system, and high-quality components, the Trek Rail 9.9 X0 AXS T-Type Gen 4 is sure to provide an exhilarating and enjoyable ride on any trail.

2024 Kona Dew Review

2024 Kona Dew Plus Review

2024 Kona Dew Deluxe Review

Related posts.

Vitus Substance V-2 Gravel Bike Sora Review

Trek Rail 9.9 XX1 AXS Gen 4 Review

Vitus Rapide 29 VR Mountain Bike Review

Trek E-Caliber 9.9 XTR Gen 1 Review

Bici , e-Mtb , Test

Video - abbiamo provato una trek rail 9.8 xt usata: com'è andata, simone lanciotti.

Aaaaah, che bello provare Mtb nuove, nuovissime, appena spacchettate, essere i primi a sporcare gomme, telaio e componenti e sentire la massima efficienza di tutti componenti (beh, i freni magari no)! Tutto vero, ma così, ammettiamolo, è facile fare bella figura. Però, i test di bici si fanno quasi sempre in questo modo e al netto del setup iniziale non richiedono altri interventi (di solito) o manutenzione. Ma cosa succede se invece il test lo si fa con una Mtb usata? Anzi, molto usata? Ed è proprio questo il caso: infatti, abbiamo provato una Trek Rail 9.8 Xt usata , richiesta appositamente a Trek Italia, con all'attivo circa 1500 Km. 1500 Km effettuati soprattutto in test day in giro per l'Italia, quindi, ahimè, con pochi riguardi nei confronti del mezzo.

Ebbene, vi confesso che appena salito in sella un po' ho temuto di essermi imbarcato in un test "avventuroso", cioè costellato di continui interventi di manutenzione, vai-e-vieni dal meccanico, problemi durante le uscite e invece... Invece, nulla di tutto ciò. Intanto vi invito a guardare il video che racconta in maniera più rapida di cosa sto parlando:

Per le specifiche tecniche complete di questa e-Mtb vi rimandiamo ad un articolo su eBikeCult.it, ossia quello che trovate in basso:

Le qualità che più mi hanno colpito della Trek Rail 9.8 Xt sono diverse. Ve ne parlo di seguito:

LE SOSPENSIONI

Non è solo un fatto di qualità delle unità ammortizzanti di serie, ma anche il funzionamento dello schema sospensivo di Trek. Il rendimento generale delle sospensioni RockShox su questo telaio è davvero grandioso, sebbene abbiano svariate ore di uso (e abuso) alle spalle. Un minimo di manutenzione è stata effettuata, visto che con 1500 Km si raggiungono i vari traguardi di ore uso ai quali effettuare determinati interventi di manutenzione. La forcella RockShox Zeb Select+ da 160 mm è una garanzia di precisione nella guida e questo rende la bici generalmente più facile (e piacevole) da guidare.

LA CONFIDENZA DI GUIDA

Qui viene chiamata in ballo anche la geometria della bici. Che se sulle prime può far pensare ad una Trek Slash con il motore, in realtà non è proprio così. I 150 mm di escursione al posteriore riducono da un lato le capacità della Trek Rail, ma allo stesso tempo la rendono più versatile. Più trail che enduro, per capirci. E questo nella guida si apprezza molto: non occorre andare giù a tuono per apprezzare il potenziale di questo mezzo, ma è sufficiente avere una certa dimestichezza con la guida di una Mtb (meglio ancora di una e-Mtb) per accorgersi di quanta confidenza di guida sappia ispirare a chi sta in sella.

LA TRASMISSIONE SHIMANO 12v

Non ha sbagliato un colpo, nemmeno quando in salita ti accorgi all'ultimo momento di aver bisogno di un rapporto più agile. Sapete bene di cosa sto parlando. La trasmissione Shimano Deore Xt 12 v, con pignoni 10-51, è stata grandiosa. E non solo durante questo test, ma, immagino, anche nei precedenti numerosi test.

LA MODALITA' ECO DI BOSCH

Questo discorso, lo stesso che avrete sentito nel video, vale soprattutto per chi ha un buon allenamento. Altrimenti la modalità Eco di Bosch è bene usarla su terreni con scarsa pendenza e fondo scorrevole. Chi ha un certo allenamento nelle gambe, invece, si accorgerà che tutto sommato questa modalità permette di arrivare in cima con un livello di assistenza alla pedalata certamente basso, ma molto parsimonioso per la batteria. Ovvero, come capita a me durante i test "elettrici", di arrivare in zona montagna con un 70-75% di batteria residua e, da lì in poi, avere un ampio margine per inventarsi giri e tracciati divertenti e, in generale, godersi i benefici di una e-Mtb.

Con la possibilità di utilizzare i livelli di assistenza maggiore con meno paura di restare a secco di batteria. Questo è uno dei tanti modi possibili di utilizzare la modalità Eco di Bosch e, in generale, tutte le modalità più parsimoniose delle varie e-Mtb.

LA MODALITA' eMTB LITE

E' una modalità specifica della Trek Rail e si basa sulla medesima logica di funzionamento della eMtb classica di Bosch. La modalità eMtb Lite, in pratica, ha un livello di assistenza più basso rispetto alla eMtb perché coinvolge anche la modalità Eco. Nell'uso offroad è piacevole da usare, meno brusca della eMtb, un po' più riguardosa nei confronti del consumo della batteria, ma ancora, a mio avviso, eccessiva nel rispondere agli input del biker nel momento in cui si deve superare un ostacolo. Nel complesso, però, la preferisco alla modalità eMtb classica, perché consuma meno batteria e nell'uso offroad è comunque piacevole se non si ha necessità di massimizzare il range di uso della batteria. Come sapete, però, Bosch ha presentato di recente il nuovo Smart System che finalmente consentirà all'utente di personalizzare i livelli di assistenza e non rimane che attendere l'arrivo di questo nuovo motore anche sulla Trek Rail.

IN CONCLUSIONE...

Con 23,81 Kg di peso e un motore da 85 Nm di coppia massima la Trek Rail 9.8 Xt è una Mtb a pedalata assistita che si rivolge ad un pubblico molto eterogeneo: da chi vuole iniziare con la guida offroad senza avere un grande allenamento a chi è già un biker e vuole scoprire una modalità nuova d'uso della Mtb. In ogni caso, però, è necessario avere anche un altro requisito: avere a disposizione 7999€ per l'acquisto. Cioè un prezzo di listino che caratterizza tutti i prodotti di fascia alta nel mondo della bici. E Trek non fa eccezione. Senza dimenticare tempi di consegna più lunghi del solito (come in tantissimi altri settori merceologici). Quindi, se vi piace e se ve la potete permettere, non temporeggiate: prima la ordinate e prima inizierete ad usarla.

Se avete commenti, domande o critiche da fare vi invitiamo a scriverle in questo post sulla nostra pagina Facebook.

Qui tutti i nostri articoli sulle e-Mtb di ultima generazione

Per informazioni TrekBikes.com

Condividi con

Sull'autore.

Sono il direttore e fondatore di MtbCult (nonché di eBikeCult.it e BiciDaStrada.it) e sono giornalista da oltre 20 anni nel settore delle ruote grasse e del ciclismo in generale. La mountain bike è uno strumento per conoscere la natura e se stessi ed è una fonte inesauribile di ispirazione e gioia. E di conseguenza MtbCult (oltre a video test, e-Mtb, approfondimenti e tutorial) parla anche di questo rapporto privilegiato uomo-Natura-macchina. Senza dimenticare il canale YouTube, che è un riferimento soprattutto per i test e gli approfondimenti.

Altri Articoli

Per commentare devi essere registrato al sito. accedi, articoli simili.

Bici , Tecnica

Redazione mtbcult, giant fathom e+ e fathom e+ ex: più potenza, telaio riprogettato.

KTM Scarp Evo III: nuovo telaio, escursione da 100 a 140 mm

Iscriviti alla nostra newsletter.

• Pinkbike.com
• Register New User
• First Looks
• Friday Fails
• Community Blogs
• Fantasy League DH
• Places Directory
• Ebikes - Mountain

2020 Trek Rail 9.7

Cool Features