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Trek Fuel EX 7 29 review

Loads of modern tech wrapped around a well-known ride feel

Russell Eich / Immediate Media

Russell Eich

Excellent rear suspension, sharp looks, modern tech, name brand notoriety

Narrow, flat bar, short top tube, front suspension can’t keep up with rear end

Trek’s Fuel EX 7 is an aluminum 29er trail bike with 130mm travel on both ends. Despite being loaded with modern technology, it reminded me of bikes from not long ago. As such, the Fuel EX 7 is an excellent bridge between old, outdated technology and all the new, modern, fun stuff we have now.

• Trek Fuel EX 9 29 review
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Trek Fuel EX 7 29 features

• Frame : Aluminum, 130mm travel, ABP and Full Floater suspension
• Fork : RockShox Reba RL, Solo Air, 51mm offset, 130mm
• Shock : Fox Performance Float Evol
• Drivetrain : SRAM NX 11-speed
• Wheels/tires : Bontrager Line Comp 30 wheels / XR4 Team Issue 29x2.4in tires

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Base level is previous year’s top tier

This Fuel EX 7 sits one up from the starting point in Trek’s robust 13-model Fuel EX line up. Yet, you’d never know it. Trek has done a remarkable job on the aesthetics. Every part looks perfectly matched for a seamless appearance overall. That’s the beauty of having a giant house brand like Bontrager, Trek controls every aspect and detail.

It’s more than just the looks though. It’s loaded with the same technology as the brand’s expensive rigs. It uses the same Active Braking Pivot and Full Floater rear suspension designs, and is outfitted with wide 29in rims laced to Boost hubs, and even has an internally routed dropper post.

The frame is stiff front to back, has adjustable geometry, and remained creak-free. Trek’s turn-reducing, down tube-saving Knock Block headset felt odd when dorking around in parking lots but stayed largely unnoticeable on the trail.

Time travel back 10 or more years and this bike would’ve blown minds. It’s a lot of bike for the money and the parts are totally functional as is, and compatible with nicer components if and when needed.

Rear end overshadows the front

Trek’s Active Braking Pivot and Full Floater technologies make up the 130mm travel rear suspension. As one of the largest bike companies, Trek is able to work with Fox and RockShox and get the exact rear shock tune it wants for its bikes. It shows. The Fuel EX 7’s rear suspension comes closer to that mythical floating feeling than most.

On climbs, both traction and bump isolation were superb. And even though the Fox Performance Float damper had a lockout lever, I never needed or even wanted to flip it.

Descending saw much of the same with excellent support and tracking through rough trail sections. Throughout the 130mm of travel, it was smoothly consistent with zero hiccups or spiking. Trek has employed its ABP rear end for years and has really nailed its rear suspension leverage ratios: supple off the top, supportive in the middle, and good at resisting bottom out.

As good as the rear end was, the Reba RL fork up front wasn’t. RockShox Solo Air spring and Motion Control damping are outclassed compared to its own Charger damper and Fox’s Fit, Grip or Rhythm internals. The chassis was also too thin for a 29er wheel with 130mm of travel. Both of those things made for a long fork and the 32mm stanchions weren’t up to the task with noticeable flexing when whipping through turns.

The bike to bring riders into the new generation

Riding the Fuel EX 7 reminded me of bikes from a few years back. Thankfully, I’m not talking high-post hardtails with V-brakes and 600mm bars, but rather bikes of the mid 2000s.

A lot of this nostalgia came from the flat 750mm bar and 60mm stem. The geometry, too, nods at XC and light trail ripping with a 67.7 degree head angle which keeps the front end responsive. Trek also tilted the seat angle up at a pedal-friendly 74.7 degrees and the reach is a tad shorter than other 130mm travel 29ers.

Granted those numbers are close to today’s standards, but the riding position provided sits the rider forward, similar to how bikes felt years ago before everything got laid back and low.

That silhouette creates a trail rig that leans a bit towards the XC side, which for a bike in this sub $3,000 price range likely works very well for its intended audience. All told it felt more similar to bikes before the all-consuming long, low, slack phenomenon took over.

Bottom line: modern tech with a familiar feel

This bike is perfect for riders who prefer bikes a little more like they used to be, or for folks getting back into the sport after some time away. It’s brilliant for what it is as much as what it’s not.

It’s not super long, low, or slack. It’s not going to feel completely foreign to someone who was into riding in the past like some of today’s mega-stretched out rigs could.

Yet, it’s still loaded with all of the modern day tech. Boost hubs, single-ring drivetrain, and a dialed rear end all contribute to making a ride that is light years better than a bike from a few years back. All together it makes the Fuel EX 7 an excellent first ride or re-introduction into trail riding.

The Fuel EX 7 29 retails at £2,250 / $2,499.99 / AU$3,299 and can be purchased at Trek Bikes and local Trek bike shops.

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• Best Mountain Bike Reviews

Best Trail Mountain Bikes

Trek fuel ex 7 29 2017 review.

• Fun Factor - 25% 3.0
• Downhill Performance - 35% 4.0
• Climbing Performance - 35% 6.0
• Ease of Maintenance - 5% 4.0

Our Verdict

Our analysis and test results, 2017 analysis and test results.

Four of our bike testers raced five short-travel trail bikes to find out which performs the best. The Trek Fuel EX 7 29 went head to head with the 2017 Santa Cruz Tallboy D 29 , 2017 Niner Jet 9 , 2017 Specialized Camber Comp 29 , and 2017 Giant Anthem 2 . Then we compared them to all the other trail bike's we've tested. Here's what we found out.

The Fuel EX is a fun bike for riders who want efficient output for their energy and enjoy holding speed. This bike is all business with its predictable handling attributes and reliable downhill performance. While the Fuel EX may not have an especially large appetite for playing around or boosting trail features, going fast is fun.

We found the Fuel EX to lack quickness and responsiveness. The Ibis Ripley LS is far more responsive to rider input and offers faster reaction time. It does not have the same insatiable appetite to be airborne or to ride its back wheel as the Santa Cruz Tallboy . What this bike lacks in spirited and lighthearted attitude, it makes up for in straight line confidence and its ability to hold speed. The Fuel EX is a fast feeling bike that lacks in cornering and flickability, yet maintains a fun feel in its own right. Once testers got a grasp on how the Fuel likes to operate, the fun-factor seemed to improve. Some folks prefer the fun of driving a muscle car to that of a rally car.

The KS Lev Internal dropper post makes for an aggressive attack position aboard the Fuel EX . Dropping the seat out of the of the way helps you compensate for this bike's lack of quickness. Hopping over logs or rocks is made slightly easier by not needing to divert your attention to dodging a seatpost.

Testers found that cornering confidence is severely limited by the Bontrager XR3 Expert tires. While the 29 x 2.4" size offers plenty of rubber and mass, the shoulder knobs are weak and not well-defined. Testers found the washy tires to limit the fun factor as it discourages riders from aggressively exploring new lines due to the risk of losing traction. In our experience, slapping what Bontrager calls "cross country performance" tires onto a trail bike isn't a recipe for a particularly fun ride.

The focused, business first Fuel Ex earns a 3 out of 10 for fun factor. The majority of bikes tested offer more playful attitudes.

Downhill Performance

We find the Trek Fuel EX to be a capable descender that lacks sharp precision. When the rocks and roots get chunky, the Fuel holds its own. The bike's geometry feels composed and stable through the chunder. The 67.2-degree head tube angle seems slack enough that, barring a poor line choice, you won't be ejected over the bars. The short chainstays allow for a nice stiff feel in the rear of the bike and provide stability at speed. Testers praise the KS Lev Integra dropper post, stating that it really opened the door for a more confident descent. Handlebars that measured out to only 750mm felt old-school. Adding a wider bar might add even more confidence and stability.

Our testers find the Fuel EX to be a fast descender. Many 29ers mask speed well, and this bike is no different. In other words, riders may not feel the true amount of speed they are carrying. The ride is smooth and composed. The Fox Float Performance EVOL rear shock is a noble performer when paired with Trek's ABP suspension and provides a damp and predictable ride. The Rock Shox Revelation RL is not a source of contention amongst most testers, who state the fork did a fine job. One tester is not so pleased with the fork. He cited that when stepping off technical sections the fork felt very springy and fast on the rebound, an adjustment he was unable to tune out.

The Santa Cruz Hightower is a far more capable descender with similar travel numbers . The Ibis Ripley LS shares similar levels of capability with much more precision.

OutdoorGearLab testers are very split on the downhill handling and confidence provided by the Fuel EX . Half of our testers feel this is a relatively nimble and confident descender. Other testers feel this bike is tall, resulting in the dreaded feeling of being on top of the bike rather than in the bike . The interesting part of this disagreement among testers is that there is no real pattern of rider height or body type that allowed us to draw a reasonable conclusion as to why certain riders felt this way. One consistent black mark on the Fuel EX's downhill handling are the Bontrager XR3 tires. It's difficult to make a commitment to adjust lines or work the slightest bit against the flow of the trail for fear of losing your front wheel. We feel these tires have a poor braking bite and would be a liability riding in wet locations.

We find the 2x10 drivetrain to be a curse and a blessing when descending. On one hand, there is a much stiffer high gear thanks to a 36 tooth big ring. Thanks to this harder gear, you can put more power down on the downhill and go faster if the trail allows. On the other hand, the gearing is closer together on a 2x10 setup, and multiple testers noted that they had to double shift to get the jump in gearing they desired. It can feel like a lot of shifting. We did not find a significant amount of dropped chains in our testing, but we weren't riding excessively rough terrain.

The Trek's capable but lackluster downhill performance rates a 4 out of 10. It's respectable within its travel range.

The Trek Fuel EX is a capable climber offering low rolling resistance and plenty of gears to choose from. The presence of a true granny gear is a nice luxury to have on steeper or longer climbs. The tradeoff for riding in this easy gear is, while you save a lot of energy, you are typically creeping up the hill and don't have the torque needed to get up and over punchy climbs and trail obstacles. One tester finds himself constantly shifting due to the closer gear ratio of a 2x10 setup. This bike has the longest reach among our test bikes, which makes for a roomy cockpit. This is a nice characteristic for climbing as riders can move around to weight the bike as needed. The cockpit is not too long and did not stretch riders out.

The climbing motion feels efficient, although testers cite a significant amount of pedal bob when climbing in the Fox Float's Open position. This is especially noticeable when in a standing climbing position. When seated, the Fuel EX feels more like an effective and energy-sipping climber. We measured the Fuel's seat tube angle at 76.5 degrees, which made it one of the steepest in the test. The steep seat tube angle results in an aggressive pedaling position as riders are more on top of the cranks. Looking for better outright climbing skills? The Santa Cruz Tallboy and the ultra efficient Yeti SB4.5 are better options.

Testers utilize the Open-Medium-Firm adjustments often when aboard the Fuel EX . The Firm setting is certainly the most efficient but creates some harsh feedback from the trail surface. We recommend saving the Firm setting for climbing paved roads, dirt roads or smoother double track. The Medium setting appears most effective in eliminating the majority of pedal bob while still maintaining some of its trail-smoothing properties. One tester notes that the lever for this adjustment was difficult to reach as the shock is mounted vertically and tucked low in the front triangle.

As mentioned previously, the Fuel EX carries momentum well. This is no different when climbing. When approaching a steep rocky pitch or navigating a short, punchy and rooty climb, the Fuel EX uses its momentum to conquer. We find that it requires a head of steam, the correct gear, and a little body language and this bike is willing to charge right up most obstacles put in front of it. Weighting the rear tire sufficiently on roots or slick rock is something that requires a fair amount of attention as the Bontrager XR3 tires don't hook up particularly well.

We find that despite sporting the longest wheelbase among test bikes, the Fuel navigates switchbacks well enough and doesn't feel too hard to steer. It's a tall task to disrupt the momentum of the 29er. It's also hard to get the momentum rolling. There is a penalty for stalling out on climbs, and it takes a fair amount of work get them moving quickly again, especially when aimed uphill.

The Fuel EX earns a 6 out of 10 for its effective climbing skills. The 110mm Santa Cruz Tallboy is a far better option with a 9 of 10.

Our timed testing found the Fuel EX to be the slowest climber out of our five short travel test bikes. That pedal bob and sluggish handling on the switchbacks took a toll. It clocked in behind the speedy Santa Cruz Tallboy and the sharp-handling Giant Anthem .

Cornering, Handling and Body Language

We found that, while the Trek Fuel EX doesn't change the way we think about 29er handling, it performs dutifully. Cornering is predictable and does require a gameplan when setting up. This is not the kind of bike that can go into a corner crooked and still salvage speed. The rider position feels inherently tall, but the presence of the KS Lev dropper post opened the gate for the Fuel EX to handle well. The ability to get low in the corners on a taller bike is critical.

Our testers describe turn initiation as solid, but it requires a fair amount of body language. We weighed this bike at 31 lbs 12 oz in the 18.5" size we tested. While this is a substantial amount of heft, testers did not report any fatigue from whipping it around. Short chainstays make it easy to lift the front end skyward for manuals or wheelies. However, the heavy front end discourages such behavior.

We don't want to beat a dead horse, but the Bontrager XR3 tires are a serious strike against the Fuel EX . We find that the tires offer limited corner control. The round design of the "shoulder" knobs didn't clearly define the breakaway of the tires. Testers have to be careful to not lay the bike over past the washout zone as the tire doesn't provide proper warning. The narrower bars mounted to the Fuel didn't jump out at our testers as a serious issue. That being said, cornering abilities would only improve with a wider bar.

Ease of Maintenance

Consumers should consider how difficult their shiny dream bike is to maintain. While it is easy to get hung up on performance or price, serviceability is important too. Suspension links and pivots require service every so often to keep running smooth and quietly — forks, rear shocks, drivetrains, brakes and dropper posts do as well. Find out more about our ranking methods in the full trail bike review .

Trek full suspension bikes strike a good balance of durability and relative ease of maintenance. The bearings have a solid lifespan and torque values are printed on the hardware. This cuts down on the research time prior to servicing your bearings. The pivots are a bit more complicated to work with than your standard 4-bar suspension system, however. The RockShox fork has a shorter recommended maintenance intervals than Fox alternatives. We rate the bike a bit lower as a result. On the other hand, we rate it higher for its Fox rear shock, which has longer service intervals than a RockShox would. The Shimano brakes are easer to work on than SRAM options, so we rate those higher.

Frame Design and Suspension Overview

The Fuel EX utilizes Trek's Active Braking Pivot (ABP) suspension design. ABP suspension features a pivot point at the rear axle, which allows the suspension to move freely regardless of braking forces. The shock is mounted to the rocker link and is completely independent of the front triangle. This system is not known to be the most progressive, meaning it reacts similarly to small bumps and bigger, harder hits. More progressive air shocks, which ramp up as they move through their stroke, help combat this shortcoming.

The Trek Fuel sports 130mm of rear wheel travel, making it the longest travel bike in our test. Trek built the Fuel EX with adjustable geometry to allow for 27.5+ wheels. Since we tested this bike as a 29er, we will focus on the Low/29 setting. The head angle measured to 67.2 degrees and we measured the chainstays at 435mm, which is right in line with the rear ends of the other 29ers in our test class.

The Fuel EX 7 provides exceptional performance and comes outfitted with exceptional build specifications.

The Fox Float Performance Evol rear shock is a rock solid performer. All testers state that they use the Open-Medium-Firm lever extensively and are complimentary of its usefulness.

Wheels and Tires -- The Fuel EX 7 rolls a Bontrager Duster Elite wheelset. These rims don't jump out in a positive or negative light. The hub engagement is solid with no noticeable dead spot.

The Bontrager XR3 Expert 2.4" tire has a nice footprint. The tread pattern, on the other hand, is decisively cross country oriented. The tread is not aggressive, and the shoulder knobs are rounded. In wet climates, we feel these tires would make for a difficult riding experience.

Groupset -- The EX 7 sports a Shimano 2x10 drivetrain with a Deore front derailleur and an SLX rear derailleur. The decision to have a front derailleur on this bike is discussed in detail in the body of this review. Regardless of your feeling on the matter, the 2x10 system worked well with crisp shifting and no dropped chains.

Shimano M506 brakes provide solid stopping power in the wet to dry, hardpack to sandy conditions during out test. These brakes do not have especially impressive modulation, giving riders the on or off feel.

Handlebars, Seat and Seatpost — Trek set the Fuel EX 7 up with a KS Lev Integra dropper post. The Lev is a rock solid cable-actuated performer that really sets this bike apart. The post functions flawlessly and allows for more aggressive riding.

Bontrager aluminum bars are installed on the front of the Fuel EX . The 750mm width is slightly narrower than is typical in this day and age. However, testers do not find this to be a major issue.

The Bontrager Evoke 8 saddle does its job and doesn't cause any testers a significant amount of pain.

Notables — We appreciate the water bottle cage option inside the front triangle.

Build Options

We tested the Fuel EX 7 29 which carries a $2599.99 price tag.

The Fuel EX 5 29 retails for $2,199 with a RockShox Sektor Silver RL fork and a Rock Shox Deluxe RL shock. Shifting duties are performed by a Shimano Deore 2x10 drivetrain, and the brakes are Shimano M315. The EX 5 build would be fantastic for someone who enjoys a mellower, less aggressive ride and doesn't mind a rigid seat post and downgraded brakes.

The Fuel EX 8 is a step-up from our test model and retails for $3,199. This build kit comes outfitted with a Fox Float 34 Rhythm fork and a trek-tuned Fox Float Performance EVOL shock. The drivetrain is a crisp Shimano XT 2x10 setup and stopping power is provided by Shimano Deore brakes. This model is outfitted with the same internally routed KS Lev dropper post as our test model.

The EX 8 build would be a great option for someone who puts value in a slightly crisper shifting feel and a plusher fork.

Trek has a reputation for producing performance bikes at a middle-of-the-road price point, the Fuel EX 7 falls right in line. Our testers are not blown out of the water by its performance, and some raised an eye to the presence of a 2x10 drivetrain on a 2017 model full-suspension bike. That being said, an SLX drivetrain and an internally routed dropper post are reasonable specifications for a bike with a $2,599.99 price tag.

Suggested Upgrades

Immediately slapping some more aggressive tires on this bike would go a long way to improving its performance.

How to Select the Right Mountain Bike

• Rider Notes

2023 Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6

A 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum frame full suspension trail bike with upper mid-range components.

Manufacturer Price

Fuel EX 7 Gen 6

In Stock: XS, SM, MD, MD/LG, LG, XL, & XXL

For This Bike

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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.

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5'9" – 6'3"

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Do you have this bike? Help other riders make a decision about which size will work for them by sharing your own size and fit notes. Report your fit

Jun 2023 · Tom Marvin

A solid performer with a class-leading chassis, let down by a harsh front end

Great frame, with perfect handling and suspension feel

Adjustable geometry and sizing options mean a bike fit for all

Happy on any level of trail

Cockpit harshness

Mediocre tyres

Poor brakes

Read Review

Jun 2023 · Scotty Prendergast

Arguably one of the all-time most popular bike models of any MTB on the planet, the ‘Fuel Ex’ has been at the peak of Trek’s MTB line-up for as long as anyone can remember and it has had no fewer than six major design overhauls during that time. Late last year Trek unveiled their newest reinvention of the ‘do it all trail bike’ which rolls out of the store boasting a ton of rider customisation features, including a choice of [...]

May 2023 · Jeremy Benson

The new Gen 6, Fuel EX 9.8 is the burliest, most versatile, and most capable Fuel yet; truly up for whatever you want to ride. Trek completely redesigned...

Apr 2023 · Mike Kazimer

Kazimer's bike is set up with mixed wheels, a 160mm fork, and a coil shock.

Apr 2023 · Drew Rohde

While the new Trek Fuel EX may have alienated a few riders, it will no doubt be a welcome redesign for a lot more riders!

Fast, confident and ready to rock!

More capable than ever

Great downtube storage solution

Adjustable and versatile geometry options

Med/Large size

Bar/Stem combo

SE5 Tires in the wet

Some may not like the newer, burlier bike’s transition

New geometry, more travel, and even better suspension improves Trek's mid-weight trail bike.

Trek's top-tier Fuel EX 9.9 XX1 AXS delights on the climbs and tackles downhill terrain with it's slack (and very adjustable) geometry.

Sep 2022 · Simon Kohler

With countless geometry settings and many sizes to choose from, the new 2023 Trek Fuel EX trail bike is supposed to be more versatile and customisable than ever.

Last updated April 28

• Buyers Guide

• Technical Details

• All Mountain

Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6 Review

• good down tube protection
• independent look
• many adjustment options
• 25 years warranty
• 15,97 kg - a bit heavy

OVERALL BIKE CHECK

The most importanten ratings of the Fuel EX 7 Gen 6 ⬤ in comparison to the competitor bikes of following categorie: (All Mountain up to 4500 €) ⬤ .

VALUE for MONEY CHECK

If you are keen on value for money, this is your chart. It shows you at a glance how many bike you get for 3299 €.

Expirience with the Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6

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Field Test: Trek Fuel EX - Evolution Underlined

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Trek Fuel EX 7 29

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Colour / Matte Viper Red

Size / 15.5, 17.5, 18.5, 19.5, 21.5, 23"

At a glance

Where to buy.

Specifications

• Frame Alpha Platinum Aluminum, ABP, Boost148, Knock Block steerer stop, Full Floater, EVO link, E2 tapered head tube, Mino Link, Control Freak internal routing, down tube guard, PF92, ISCG 05, G2 Geometry, 130mm
• Wheels Bontrager Duster Elite, Tubeless Ready, Boost110 front, Boost148 rear
• Wheel Size 29"
• Tires Bontrager XR3 Expert, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 29x2.40"
• Crank Shimano M627, 36/22
• Front Derailleur Shimano Deore, high direct mount
• Rear Derailleur Shimano SLX, Shadow Plus
• Shifters Shimano Deore, 10 speed
• Brakeset Shimano M506 hydraulic disc
• Handlebar Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, 5mm rise, 750mm width
• Saddle Bontrager Evoke 2, chromoly rails
• Seatpost KS eThirty Integra, remote lever, 2-bolt head, 31.6mm, zero offset, internal routing
• Stem Bontrager Rhythm Comp, Knock Block, 31.8mm, 0 degree
• Headset Knock Block Integrated, cartridge bearing, sealed, 1-1/8" top, 1.5" bottom

Q: What size wheels does the 2017 Trek Fuel EX 7 29 have?

The 2017 Trek Fuel EX 7 29 has 29" wheels.

Q: What size 2017 Trek Fuel EX 7 29 should I get?

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Trek Fuel EX 2023 Review | A bigger, musclier & hugely adaptable trail bike

The not-so-minor details.

2023 Trek Fuel EX

https://www.trekbikes.com

$4,999 AUD - $8,999 AUD

- Sturdy, flex-free chassis - Superb geometry with adjustable head angle - Efficient & comfortable climbing performance - Coil shock, big fork & mullet compatibility - Mechanic-friendly frame furnishings - Internal storage

- Frame is on the heavy side - Rear shock tune lacks small-bump suppleness - Rattly rear thru-axle lever

Wil reviews the Trek Fuel EX 2023

Having undergone a ground-up redesign for 2023, the Trek Fuel EX has entered its burliest and biggest travel form yet. This latest model represents the 6th generation of Trek’s popular mid-travel trail bike, with the original having debuted all the way back in 2005. Trail riding has evolved a lot since then, and the new Fuel EX aims to keep up with that evolution by incorporating almost every mod-con you can think of.

Of course it’s big news whenever Trek releases a new Fuel EX, and given how important this bike is for the US brand, we were curious to see how the raft of updates would play out on the trail. We had a bit of an idea, having thoroughly enjoyed riding the electrified Trek Fuel EXe over the past few months. Would the muscle-powered version deliver the same good vibes? And how would it compare to the previous models that have given us so many fond riding memories over the years? We’ve been putting the Trek Fuel EX 2023 to the test to find out!

Watch our video review of the Trek Fuel EX 2023:

Along with the downtube storage, generous frame armour and size-specific chainstays, the Fuel EX appears to pack in almost everything you could possibly want in a modern trail bike.

An overview of the Trek Fuel EX 2023

For 2023, the Trek Fuel EX is built around an entirely new frame that’s produced in carbon and alloy variants. Suspension travel has increased by 10mm at both ends, with the new Fuel EX now sporting a 150mm fork and 140mm of rear travel via the ABP four-bar suspension design.

It’s worth noting that the frame will handle a 160mm travel fork, and thanks to the two-position Mino Link, it can also be run as a mullet. Borrowed from the Session downhill bike, there’s a two-position flip chip at the lower shock mount that offers linear and progressive settings. The latter option is what makes the new Fuel EX coil shock compatible.

On top of that, Trek will be offering aftermarket headset cups to steepen or slacken the head angle by a degree. Along with the downtube storage, generous frame armour and size-specific chainstays, the Fuel EX appears to pack in almost everything you could possibly want in a modern trail bike. It’s certainly an appealing package on paper, and one that’s ready to take on contemporaries like the Specialized Stumpjumper , Merida One-Forty , Canyon Spectral and Giant Trance X .

Trek Fuel EX price & specs

There are a number of different models available in the Trek Fuel EX 2023 lineup, though availability will vary depending on where you are in the world.

In Australia, prices currently range from $4,999 AUD for the Fuel EX 7, and go up to $8,999 AUD for the Fuel EX 9.8 XT model. The cheapest option is actually the Fuel EX 5, though that model carries over the previous generation frame. For a closer look at the specs, prices and all the new details, check out our Trek Fuel EX 2023 overview article for more.

Here we’ll be diving into our experience of testing the Trek Fuel EX 9.9 XX1 AXS model, which will be available in Australia in limited quantities through the custom Project One bike builder. It’s a media bike that was provided to us by Trek, and of course it comes dripping with lots of gold, carbon and wireless bits. However, as usual with our reviews, we won’t be going into detail about the Gucci-level spec. Instead, we’ll be concentrating on the important aspects that are shared throughout the Fuel EX lineup; the frame design, suspension performance and its on-trail handling.

2023 Trek Fuel EX 9.9 XX1 AXS

• Frame |  OCLV Mountain Carbon Fibre, ABP Suspension Design, 140mm Travel
• Fork |  Fox 36, Factory Series, GRIP2 Damper, 44mm Offset, 150mm Travel
• Shock |  Fox Float X, Factory Series, 185x55mm
• Wheels |  Bontrager Line Pro 30, OCLV Carbon Rims, 29mm Inner Width
• Tyres |  Bontrager SE5 Team Issue 2.5in Front & Rear
• Drivetrain |  SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS1×12 w/30T Crankset & 10-52T Cassette
• Brakes |  SRAM Code RSC 4-Piston
• Bar |  Bontrager RSL Integrated, OCLV Carbon, 27.5mm Rise, 820mm Width
• Stem |  Bontrager RSL Integrated, OCLV Carbon, 45mm Length
• Seatpost |  RockShox Reverb AXS, 34.9mm Diameter, Travel: 100mm (S), 150mm (M-M/L), 170mm (L), 200mm (XL)
• Saddle |  Bontrager Arvada, Austentite Rails
• Confirmed Weight | 14.4kg
• RRP |  $TBC

The chassis feels near-bombproof, and combined with the supportive suspension, powerful brakes and high volume rubber, you’re served up plenty of confidence for pushing the front wheel into steep chutes and over technical A-lines.

Trek Fuel EX size & geometry

From X-Small through to XX-Large, the Trek Fuel EX is produced in no fewer than seven different sizes. Seven! Given that many brands only offer four or sometimes even just three frame sizes, that’s impressive.

The two smallest sizes feature 27.5in wheels, while the Medium and above come standard with 29in wheels. The Small is the only option that is available in either wheelsize.

At 175cm tall I’ve been riding a Medium, which features a 450mm reach. Thanks to the use of short seat tubes, a rider of my height could easily upsize to the M/L size to get a longer 470mm reach. Personally, I’ve found the fit of the Medium to be spot-on.

As for geometry, the Fuel EX features a 64.5° head angle and approximately a 77.5° effective seat tube angle in its stock configuration. The rear centre length varies between sizes, going up to 450mm on the largest frame. On the Medium I’ve been riding, the rear centre is a compact 435mm.

Coming off the Fuel EXe, I found it easy to settle into the Fuel EX. The only modification I needed to perform was to chop the comically wide handlebars from 820mm down to a more reasonable 780mm.

Suspension & tyre setup

Getting the Fuel EX set up is made easy thanks to Trek’s detailed online suspension calculator . Input the bike model and your riding weight, and out spits suggested air pressure and rebound settings for both the fork and shock. It even suggests tyre pressures, giving you a good place to start before hitting the trail. When brands like Canyon struggle to provide any recommendations at all, Trek should be commended for helping riders to get the most out of their bike.

For my 68kg riding weight, Trek suggests setting up the Fox 36 fork slightly softer and slower than usual. Recommended rear shock sag is 29%, and the calculator’s suggestion of 158psi got me to exactly that figure. Initially I set the rebound at 6/15 clicks as recommended, but while everything felt quite balanced front to back, the suspension was a little sluggish and duller than I wanted. Speeding up the rebound by a couple of clicks in both the fork and shock helped to make the whole bike feel a bit more lively, while improving small-bump reactivity.

Although the Bontrager SE5 tyres feature reinforced Core Strength casings, I still fitted a CushCore Pro insert to provide some additional pinch-flat protection and insurance for the carbon rims. Tyre pressures were set as per Trek’s recommendations with 20psi in the front and 22psi in the rear.

Trek Fuel EX weight

Confirmed weight for our Trek Fuel EX test bike is 14.4kg. That’s with the tyres set up tubeless, but without the CushCore insert or pedals.

It’s on the heavier side for a high-end carbon trail bike, though the 2.5in tyres, stocky carbon wheels and AXS components aren’t exactly the lightest going. Of course weights do vary throughout the Fuel EX lineup depending on the spec, and you can see the weights for all the different models in our range overview .

A contributing factor to the overall weight is the new frame, which has gained almost 700g over its predecessor. Trek claims the carbon frame weighs 3.4kg with the rear shock, making it a bit of a porker alongside some of the competition;

• Scott Genius HMX Carbon: 2,249g
• Specialized Stumpjumper Carbon: 2,280g
• Giant Trance X Advanced Pro 29: 2,498g
• Specialized Stumpjumper EVO Carbon: 2,750g
• Canyon Spectral CF: 3,047g
• Trek Fuel EX Carbon: 3,400g

The new alloy Fuel EX frame is heavier again, coming in at a hefty 4.6kg with shock.

Of course weight isn’t everything, and it’s unsurprising that the new frame has gotten heavier given how much longer and slacker it is. Still, for those who are especially concerned by grams, there are certainly lighter options on the market.

What do we dig about the Trek Fuel EX 2023?

With its added heft and updated geometry, the Trek Fuel EX 2023 is no doubt the burliest iteration yet. The chassis feels near-bombproof, and combined with the supportive suspension, powerful brakes and high volume rubber, you’re served up plenty of confidence for pushing the front wheel into steep chutes and over technical A-lines.

Indeed it’s massively capable for a 140mm travel bike, with the slack 64.5° head angle and roomy wheelbase giving it a purposeful stance on the trail. The geometry is superb, with welcome updates that have brought the Fuel EX right up to speed.

The steeper seat angle is particularly noticeable over the old bike, providing a much improved seated position on steep climbs. Pedalling efficiency has also levelled up. Trek has lifted the main pivot above the chainring to increase anti-squat, which helps to reduce pedal-induced bobbing. The Float X shock has a two-position climb switch, but I never once needed to use it while riding off-road since the rear end is so well behaved.

It rips through the turns

Once up to speed on flower singletrack, the taut chassis means the Trek Fuel EX is highly responsive when rounding corners and pushing into berms.

With its boxy downtube, split top tube and the supporting strut for the lower shock mount, the front triangle is heavily braced to resist torsional flex. Along with the wide main pivot and boxy one-piece chainstays, the Fuel EX possesses a strong spine from its shapely head tube to the rear thru-axle. The muscly frame effectively translates handling inputs while resisting lateral deflection through the turns.

Likewise, the short rear end and generous 38mm BB drop are fantastic when threading your way through twisty sections of trail, keeping you connected to the terrain and contributing to the playful ride quality. The low-hanging BB did mean I caught the pedals occasionally, so those who frequent off-piste terrain and technical climbs will want to consider flipping the Mino Link into the High position to indulge in an extra 7mm of pedal clearance.

Otherwise the riding position and weight distribution are totally sorted. The handling is approachable, and the Fuel EX doesn’t demand a whole lot from you as the rider. Compared to the old bike it does need a more concerted lean when entering tighter corners, though this is a part of the natural evolution of modern trail bike geometry. Even if you’re coming off a 5-year old bike, you’ll only need a few rides to get accustomed to the Fuel EX’s steering behaviour.

Trail-tweakable

In addition to the Mino Link, we’ve also been experimenting with the lower shock flip chip on the Trek Fuel EX. Requiring just a single 6mm hex key, it’s a quick adjustment to make trailside, and the change in suspension behaviour is noticeable.

I ended up preferring the ‘Less’ setting, which provides a more linear leverage rate. With the shock set at the recommended sag, this position provides great pedalling support, along with more comfort and activity deeper into the stroke. There’s still a good deal of progression though. Combined with the large bottom-out bumper in the Float X shock, hitting full travel proved to be a well-controlled affair.

One of our fellow testers, who generally spends more time in the air than on the ground, preferred riding in the ‘More’ setting. This increases progression, providing a stronger ramp-up in the latter half of the travel. He also reduced the shock pressure by 5psi to further enhance small-bump compliance, while still being able to enjoy the additional big-hit support. Pedal efficiency isn’t as stable in this setting, but it does mean the Fuel EX takes to jumps like a duck to water, popping off lips enthusiastically and absorbing hard landings with a solid and flex-free touchdown.

One thing to note on the More/Less flip chip is that while you are altering the progression of the air spring, you’re also affecting the damper too. As well as adjusting air pressure, we found we needed to tweak the rebound and low-speed compression settings between the two positions. It is indeed a useful tuning tool, but it doesn’t dispel the need for air volume spacers entirely.

What does it struggle with?

With the Trek Fuel EX adopting a beefier frame, the added weight is noticeable compared to lighter bikes in this category. That’s compounded by the heavy-duty brakes, stocky wheels and chunky tyres, which mean there’s more inertia to overcome during micro-accelerations on an undulating climb.

For those who are looking for a sharper and sprightlier trail bike to whip through the trees along smoother singletrack, the latest Trek Top Fuel will be a better fit. In comparison, the new Fuel EX is a burlier beast that thrives on steeper and more technical terrain.

Curiously, it does feel stiffer than the electrified version, the Fuel EXe . Despite both our test bikes featuring carbon frames with a near-identical build kit, I’ve found the Fuel EX to transmit more trail feedback.

Some of this may be due to structural differences, and perhaps the more favourable sprung-to-unsprung mass ratio on the electric version thanks to the added weight of the motor and and battery. Either way, the Fuel EX doesn’t exactly exude off-camber compliance. As a lighter rider on very rocky terrain, I’ve found myself getting knocked around a little more than I would like.

This sensation reminded me of the Canyon Spectral 125 , which proved to be overly stiff and quite uncomfortable at slower riding speeds. The Fuel EX is more compliant overall than the Spectral 125, but it’s still pretty stiff.

It’s not as supple as Fuel EX models gone by

Contributing to this sensation, the suspension isn’t as plush as previous Fuel EX models, particularly those that featured the Thru Shaft shock. Those bikes did require the rider to make use of the compression lever to provide pedalling support, but it meant that in the open mode the rear end absorbed the terrain like melted butter.

You may have noticed that Trek has been making a conscious move away from proprietary suspension components lately, and that’s coincided with building bikes that offer more neutral pedalling performance. The increased anti-squat is one part of the equation on the new Fuel EX, and the other part is the custom-tuned Float X, which Trek has configured with a digressive compression tune on the main piston. This creates a decent low-speed threshold, which provides a level of support that sits between the Open and Medium settings on the previous RE:aktiv damper.

The result is that you can ride with the shock fully open, and the Fuel EX still offers great stability under pedalling inputs, with no real need to activate the climb switch. If you detest remote lockouts and having to flip shock levers all the time, this will certainly be appealing.

The downside is that the suspension isn’t as supple over smaller rubble and at slower speeds. Along with the stiff chassis and carbon wheels, more of those vibrations are transmitted to the rider. As such, careful consideration with tyre pressure is needed to maximise grip and comfort.

Because there is more support however, the Fuel EX gives your feet a stronger platform to push off of, with greater feedback during high-load scenarios. Indeed the harder and faster you push, the better the Fuel EX responds. In that sense, it’s less of a comfy cruiser like its predecessors, and more of a mid-travel bruiser that loves to ride hard and fast.

Component highs & lows

As a complete bike, the Trek Fuel EX is a solid package that puts the emphasis on capability over light weight.

The Bontrager SE5 tyres are a good example, coming in at 1,100g each on our workshop scales. They roll reasonably well given their weight and size, and we’ve found them to provide consistent grip on rocky, hard-packed soil, which will suit most Aussie trail riders. The tread is a little shallow though, and the compound isn’t the softest, which sees them struggling to latch on when the conditions are wet and loose. We’d prefer something a little stickier and toothier up front, like a Maxxis Minion DHR II with 3C MaxxGrip rubber.

While the carbon Bontrager Line Pro rims are quite stiff, they have proven to be plenty tough. We’ve tested five of these wheelsets across various bikes over the past few years and we’ve not encountered a single issue. The y also come with a two-year crash replacement guarantee, which is great insurance given the hell that you can put this bike through. Furthermore, the frame itself comes with a lifetime warranty for the original owner.

There’s still plenty of real-world protection though, including a generous two-piece armour plate that bolts to the underside of the downtube. There’s also a metal chain-suck guard behind the chainring, and a full-coverage chainstay protector. Along with the fully guided internal cable routing, the Fuel EX is an impressively quiet and rattle-free bike on the trail. Well, except for the rear thru-axle lever, which I removed after the first ride.

Otherwise the finishing details are all sound. The adoption of a bigger 34.9mm seat tube diameter is welcome, as it accommodates a stiffer and stronger dropper post, particularly for the larger sizes. Mechanics will be happy to see a threaded BB shell, and we’re fans of the downtube storage. The trap door has none of the play that we encountered on the last Fuel EX we tested, with a tight fit and a nice lever action.

It’s certainly a high quality chassis, and many riders are likely to appreciate the in-built versatility. We’re looking forward to trying out the adjustable head angle once the aftermarket cups become available, and we’d also be keen to try out the Fuel EX with a coil shock. Setting it up as a mullet will be more straightforward, especially as you only need to buy an air spring to extend the Fox 36 up to 160mm of travel.

Trek Fuel EX vs Specialized Stumpjumper

Alongside the Trek Fuel EX, the Specialized Stumpjumper is one of the most popular and well-known trail bikes in this category. In terms of travel and the overall build, the Fuel EX sits right in between the regular Stumpjumper and the Stumpjumper EVO. However, it’s the regular Stumpy that I’ve been spending the most time on lately, both in its stock configuration and with a burlier mullet setup .

Compared to the Fuel EX, the Stumpjumper has a touch less travel with a 140mm fork and 130mm at the rear. It also uses a simpler suspension layout, with the carbon models employing a flex-stay design. Combined with its slimmer tube profiles, the carbon Stumpjumper frame is very light. Specialized claims it weighs just 2.28kg including the shock, which is over a kilo lighter than a carbon Fuel EX.

This theme extends to the Stumpjumper’s build kit, with Specialized electing for the skinnier Fox 34 over the 36. Along with an in-line shock, lighter brakes, wheels and tyres, there’s a considerable difference in the overall bike weight. For example, the Stumpjumper Pro we tested weighed 12.84kg.

While the geometry is pretty similar between the two bikes, the Specialized Stumpjumper rides much lighter on the trail compared to the Trek Fuel EX. It offers more comfort, with its lithe chassis and smooth suspension performance providing better compliance over rough terrain. It’s quite sporty and sprightly, though its active suspension design does need taming on the climbs by making use of the rear shock’s compression lever.

In comparison, the Fuel EX is more naturally efficient. It’s also more planted at speed, with its sturdy chassis and supportive suspension providing better big-hit capability. It feels more like a short travel enduro bike, which will suit heavier and harder riders.

Both bikes will handle a longer fork and can be set up as a mullet, though Specialized makes a specific link for the Stumpjumper to maintain the stock geometry. There is greater versatility in the Fuel EX chassis, with the option to adjust the head angle and fit a coil shock.

As for value, the Fuel EX offers a more appealing spec package. A Stumpjumper Expert sells for $9,800 AUD and comes with a Fox 34 GRIP2 fork, SRAM G2 brakes, an X01 drivetrain, alloy wheels and handlebars. In comparison, an equivalent Fuel EX 9.8 XT sells for $800 AUD less. It gets a simpler GRIP damper for its Fox 36 fork, though it does feature a piggyback shock, a Shimano XT groupset, a carbon one-piece RSL cockpit and carbon wheels with that 2-year crash replacement guarantee.

Flow’s Verdict

For many trail riders, the Trek Fuel EX 2023 is likely to tick just about every box on your new bike wish list. It’s as up to date as it gets, featuring loads of adjustability, internal storage and a nuanced approach to its size-specific geometry. Along with the increased travel and muscly frame, it offers greater stability and big-hit control over its predecessor, while still being a fun and involving bike to ride on modern flow trails.

It is a bit of a chonker though, so those who are looking for a lightweight and speedy trail bike may be better served by the latest Top Fuel .

The stiff chassis and supportive suspension also mean the Fuel EX tends to transmit more feedback, making it less comfortable to ride over rocky terrain. We’d be curious to try out a lighter shock tune to see how much of a difference that would make to the overall ride quality, but in its stock form the Fuel EX isn’t as plush as competitors like the Giant Trance X and Specialized Stumpjumper .

It is impressively efficient though, and the stable suspension gives you a load of support when you’re really giving it the beans on the descents. In this sense, the Fuel EX is closer in feel and performance to an enduro bike. You’ll still want to look towards the Slash if you’re serious about racing, but outside of the tape the Fuel EX will handle just about everything a modern trail centre or bikepark could throw at it. And for those who really want to up the limits, the adaptable chassis can easily be configured for some pretty aggressive riding.

Indeed for those who are chasing maximum capability without going to a big, spongy enduro bike, the Fuel EX is a mighty appealing option.

You’ll still want to look towards the Slash if you’re serious about racing, but outside of the tape the Fuel EX will handle just about everything a modern trail centre or bikepark could throw at it.

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2023 Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6 Review

Are you looking for the perfect trail bike that offers ultimate performance? Do you want to know if the 2023 Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6 is worth considering?

Mountain biking is an exhilarating outdoor activity that can be done on all kinds of terrains, from dirt roads and single tracks to gnarly rock gardens.

As such, it requires a bike that is versatile and reliable. This has made the search for the optimal mountain bike difficult as there are so many options available.

The 2023 Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6 may be just what you need! It is the next generation of Trek’s popular Fuel EX series, so we have decided to take a closer look at this powerful trail bike and provide our full review.

We will analyse its features, design, performance, and compare it with other models in its class. So if you’ve been searching for a superior riding experience on rugged trails, read on for our latest review of the 2020 Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6!

The 2023 Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6 is an all-mountain full suspension mountain bike that packs all of Trek’s latest technologies into a package that is capable, confident and compliant – if you need a bike with great technical capability, look no further!

In this review, we’ll break down the features and specs of the 2023 Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6 to give you an in-depth understanding of what it offers.

The 2023 Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6 is a mountain shredding marvel. It’s designed to tackle unpredictable terrain and keep you comfortable when the going gets rough.

This mountain-ready bike has a geometry that gives you amazing control and handling, while the frame is made with lightweight yet durable aluminum alloy.

The 150mm of front and 185mm rear travel smooth out bumps, with FOX and RockShox suspension as well as Trek’s angle-adjust headset technology keeping you stable as you traverse tricky terrain. Plus, the sleek single-ring drivetrain ensures effortless shifting for quick adjustments on trail.

– Alpha Platinum Aluminum frame with internal downtube storage, angle-adjust headset, Mino Link adjustable geometry, and adjustable leverage rate

– RockShox 35 Gold RL, DebonAir spring fork provides 150 mm of travel

– Fox Performance Float EVOL 185mm x 55mm rear shock with 3-position DPS damper, tuned by Trek Suspension Lab

– Shimano components provide 1×12 drivetrain; 10-51t cassette and 30t chainring

– Bontrager XR5 Team Issue tires have aggressive knobs for secure cornering

– Bontrager Line Comp 30 wheelset is light and strong enough for every ride

– Boost 148/110mm hub spacing helps to provide better tire clearance 

– TranzX dropper post accommodates various riding styles

Frame Design

At the heart of the design of the 2023 Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6 is its lightweight Alpha Platinum Aluminum frame. 

The frame is designed for optimal off-road performance, combining low weight with excellent power transfer for climbing efficiency and stability on descents.

Replaceable headset cups (sold separately) to tweak the 64.5-degree head tube angle a degree steeper or slacker to your liking — all without impacting your bottom bracket height. 

The suspension on this model comes from RockShox 35 Gold RL 150mm travel in the front, giving you plenty of control over how your bike responds in rough terrain while still providing lightweight efficiency when you want it.

The Fox Performance Float EVOL 185mm x 55mm adds even more control to the handling on steeper trails, while remaining stable at higher speeds.

Wheels & Tires

The 2023 Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6 rolls on 27.5” Bontrager Line Comp 30, tubeless ready wheels and 2.50″ wide Bontrager XR5 Team Issue tires for maximum grip in corners and rock gardens without sacrificing rolling speed or braking power.

Drivetrain & Brakes

The drivetrain on this model features a Shimano 12 speed drivetrain featuring a 10-51t cassette giving you plenty of range for both uphills and downhills, while Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes provide powerful stopping power regardless of condition or terrain type.

Also coming equipped with Shimano Deore 30t crankset which helps shave some weight off while still offering plenty of stiffness during pedalling efforts.

If you’re looking for an all-mountain full suspension mountain bike that can tackle almost any type of terrain without breaking a sweat, then check out the 2023 Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6!

Order online and have it shipped to your local dealer for final assembly!!

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FIRST RIDE REVIEW

The new trek fuel ex review.

Photos & Words by Dario DiGiulio

As mountain biking has evolved into what it is today, the trails we ride on have slowly but surely raised the bar of what modern bikes have to keep up with. Sure, some tracks have been sanitized over time, but there’s no question that the pointy end of the sport has kept pushing forward. As a result, trail bikes have had to pick up the pace to match the expectations of the average rider, leading to more capable and confident rigs with every new model. Stepping up to the plate, we have the evolved version of the Trek Fuel EX, Trek’s mainstay trail bike. This time it’s really meant to do it all, riding anywhere and doing anything. Being this adaptable can be a tricky task though, so has Trek painted themselves into a corner?

The new Trek Fuel EX breaks just about every mold that the prior generations had fit into, with a full-on redesign for the new model. The name of the game here is adaptability, whether in the geometry, the suspension kinematics, or even what size wheels you’ll run. Thanks to their Mino Link flip chip and two sets of press-in headset cups, you can shift the character of this bike drastically to suit your terrain and preference. As a result, it’s a bit hard to parse out the specific geometry of the bike (however Trek’s site features a geometry tool to let you do so), so I’ll just speak to it in its most neutral form, which is where many will likely settle. There are a whopping 8 size variations to this bike from XS to XXL, so it’s worth digging through the geometry tables to see which might suit you best. They’re all sporting 140mm of rear travel with a 150mm fork, upping the numbers on the prior generation by 10mm.

I’ve been testing the large frame, which puts the reach and stack at around 485mm and 621mm, which are in line with the majority of the industry right now. In keeping with the new Trek Fuel EX’s theme of being adaptable and capable. In its neutral-low setting, the bike comes with a 64.5-degree head tube angle and the effective seat tube angle sits at 77.2-degrees. Chainstays shift with the frame size, and on a large come in at 440mm. Thanks to the Mino Link flip chip, you can adjust bottom bracket height by 8mm up from the slammed 38mm drop in stock configuration, with a 0.6° steeper head tube and seat tube angle. The more significant head tube adjustment comes from the independent press-in headset cups that Trek supplies, which can steepen or slacken things by a full degree, giving a very wide range of handling characteristics. The last frame toggle is the progression flip chip, offering a simple more or less option to tailor the suspension feel and offer uncompromised coil shock compatibility.

As is trend right now, you can set the Fuel Ex up as a mullet, simply by popping a 27.5” wheel in the rear, swapping the Mino Link to high mode, and bumping up fork travel to 160mm. The bike comes stock as a 29er front and rear (or 27.5″ in XS and Small), so you’ll have to make this change on your own accord.

A notable thing lacking from the newest Fuel EX its the Knock Block – you’ll find no such thing on this frame. X-up fans take note, as this is a big move for the engineers in Waterloo, Wisconsin, and was necessary to achieve the headset adjustment range they wanted. Trek has also moved away from the RE:aktiv damper shock, now simply relying on an off-the-shelf model. Still included in the frames are the handy-dandy stash box in the down tube, with what I think might be the best weather sealing of any of the options on the market at this point, and a neat BITS tool roll.

Build kits come in as many flavors as the sizes, and the range of options is quite extensive, beginning at a respectable $3,699. I’ve been on the highest end build, the 9.9 AXS especial, coming in at a healthy $10,749. From Bontrager Line 30 carbon wheels, to the RSL one-piece carbon cockpit, to the XX1 drivetrain, just about everything is as nice as it gets, as you’d hope for this kind of money.

At my height of 6’3”, the geo combination of the Neutral-Low-More flip chip configuration on the large size makes for a really comfortable fit,  one that feels stable enough at speed while still remaining lively for your average trail. I started my time testing the bright yellow Trek up in Whistler, riding some gnarly rocky pedal-access trails around the Valley. This was a great context for deciding where I stood on the less or more progression debate, and I settled on the latter end of the spectrum. Increased bottom-out resistance and a more supple top of travel were worth a slightly punchier suspension feel, and I stand by that choice for most of the riding I have around me. On my home trails in Bellingham, the Fuel has been a choice companion for fast and fun rides in our local trail systems, where technical and engaging climbs lead to fast, rooty, and jump-filled descents. My general synopsis is that this is a bike that loves to ride fast, both up and down.

The climbing characteristics are comfortable and neutral, without wallowing too much or lacking grip in trickier terrain. Like many of the take-aways of the bike as it comes stock, things are extra-medium, in the best way. Compared to the new Hightower, the bike has slightly less support, but is significantly better in rough terrain and successive hits. Compared to the Stumpjumper EVO, the Fuel EX is definitely more of a trail bike, less of the all-mountain enduro-lite ride that the Specialized offers. All three bikes serve as a nice gradient from the lighter and sportier end of the trail spectrum to the burlier and more capable side of the category. Sitting pretty right in the middle is the Fuel EX, but I’m sure one could tweak it to either of the other extremes, given how much variability is baked into this frame.

Build kit notes are mostly positive, which you’d hope to see from the highest end build. My main gripe is with the Bontrager SE5 tires, which are some the least confidence-inspiring I’ve ridden in recent memory. The casing and tread pattern are fine, but the compound doesn’t seem to want to hook up anywhere, whether it’s dry loose terrain, rock slabs, and especially wet roots. This would be an immediate swap in my book, and I’d just keep the stock tires to run in the rear when conditions are dry and beat at the peak of summer.

The removable shuttle pad doesn’t seem to want to stay close to the frame, and bows out slightly when attached, giving the downtime a funny bulged look to it. One other frame annoyance has been a recurring suspension knock, despite chasing through every bolt in the linkage with a torque wrench. I still have yet to find the culprit, but luckily it’s not very noticeable when riding.

As a system, I’ve been more than impressed by Trek’s work on the new Fuel EX. Not only does it feel quick and confidant in the stock configuration, it also offers a whole host of layout options to better cater the bike to your preferences.

THE WOLF’S FIRST IMPRESSION

To close out our review of the new Trek Fuel Ex, it’s clear that Trek’s engineers and designers set out to design a bike that caters to that wide center of the market – the trail bike – where most riders spend their time, and where a bike can take many forms. In that goal, they found success. Sure some riders may feel the new Fuel EX has departed from what they were used to and liked about the bike, but many other riders will likely welcome the advancements in capability and confidence on the trail. The Fuel EX is a highly adaptable bike that feels comfortable in a really wide variety of terrain but doesn’t confuse itself for anything more or less. Bike riders, rejoice.

TREK FUEL EX 7

Price: $3,699.99

Frame: Alpha Platinum Aluminum, internal storage | 140mm Fork: RockShox 35 Gold RL | 150mm Shock: Fox Performance Float EVOL

Drivetrain: Shimano SLX/XT Brakes: Shimano MT420 4-piston

Wheelset: Bontrager Line Comp 30, Rapid Drive 108

TREK FUEL EX 8

Price: $4,299

Frame: Alpha Platinum Aluminum, internal storage | 140mm Fork: Fox Rhythm 36 | 150mm Shock: Fox Performance Float X

Drivetrain: Shimano XT M8100 Brakes: Shimano Deore M6120

TREK FUEL EX 9.7

Price: $6,249.99

Frame: OLCV Mountain Carbon, internal storage | 140mm Fork: Fox Rhythm 36 | 150mm Shock: Fox Performance Float X

Drivetrain: Shimano SLX/XT Brakes: Shimano Deore M6120

TREK FUEL EX 9.8

GX AXS Price: $7,699.99 XT Price: $6,749.99

Frame: OLCV Mountain Carbon, internal storage | 140mm Fork: Fox Performance 36 | 150mm Shock: Fox Performance Float X

Wheelset: Bontrager Line Elite 30, OCLV Carbon, Rapid Drive 108

GX AXS BUILD Drivetrain: SRAM GX Eagle AXS Brakes: SRAM CODE R

XT BUILD Drivetrain: Shimano XT M8100 Brakes: Shimano XT M8120

TREK FUEL EX 9.9

XX1 AXS Price: $10,749.99 XTR Price: $9,749.99

Frame: OLCV Mountain Carbon, internal storage | 140mm Fork: Fox Factory 36 | 150mm Shock: Fox Factory Float X

Wheelset: Bontrager Line Pro 30, OCLV Carbon, Rapid Drive 108

XX1 AXS BUILD Drivetrain: SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS Brakes: SRAM CODE RSC

XT BUILD Drivetrain: Shimano XTR M9100 Brakes: Shimano XTR M9120

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Is Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 5 A Good Bike? [Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 5 Review]

Table of Contents

Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 5

• Price: $3,499.99
• Frame： Alpha Platinum Aluminum
• Gears: 1 x 12 speed
• Tire: 29×2.60″ (max)

What we like about it: The smooth DebonAir spring and dropper design and the 1×12 SRAM NX Eagle drivetrain make for a great full-suspension bike.

What we don’t like about it: some people think it would be better if it had 4 piston brakes, we think the Trek Fuel EX 7 is perfectly adequate when braking.

Rating: （4.7/5)

Introduction

Did you know? When our reviewers rode it on country roads, passers-by saw our Trek Fuel EX 7 and said “Wow, look at that bike! Look at that bike!”. Its unique design and paint job are very attractive.

After two months of reviewing the Trek Fuel EX 7, we can see why some people call it a “stable and reliable utility bike”. of the bumpy feeling.

Not only that, but the Trek Fuel EX 7’s Alpha Platinum Aluminum body and vacuum tires reduce its overall weight, allowing us to control it with less force when riding.

We all agree that the Trek Fuel EX excels on downhill and hills, but we don’t think it’s any less suitable for riding on other roads.

For this, we also took to the sand and relatively smooth roads of the sea and found that the Fuel EX 7 2.6” tire size has a strong grip on fine, loose sand and the traction of the front wheels does not slip. The wide size of the tires allows the whole car to float better on the sand. Some people would think, however, that such wide tires would encounter some difficulties on flat roads.

In our review, the EX 7 Trek would indeed be less than excellent in terms of speed, but very strong in terms of stability. Here is our detailed review of the Trek Fuel EX 7’s descents and climbs, key features, components, and specifications, as well as a comparison of its previous versions.

If you prefer exciting descents and exploring uncharted paths, take a look at our review.

I once heard a saying from the old country of the East: “It’s easy to get up the mountain, but hard to get down”. So when we saw the Trek Fuel EX 7, we had a feeling that it would shine in the drop test.

During our 3 month long review, the EX 7 Trek conquered me again and again with its strength. First of all, the road was full of ups and downs and unpredictable conditions, but the EX 7 Trek was able to complete this section without any problems.

The Fuel EX 7 crushes over unavoidable rocks with ease and without making you aware of the obstacle you’ve just encountered. In addition, we encountered unforeseen difficulties during the test, with rain suddenly falling on an apparently sunny day, which made us want to abandon the downhill test on the forest road for a while.

The results really didn’t disappoint me, th Fuel EX 7 didn’t leave us needing great force to keep ourselves and the car close to the ground in the fast descents. This result left everyone but me wide-eyed, and I was actually surprised inside, but I didn’t show it.

In this respect, the performance of the Fuel EX 7 gave me a concrete idea of the value for money compared to the very expensive mountain bikes I have ridden before.

Steep and rugged downhill trails are known to be a great challenge for both the rider and the mountain bike, and we were totally impressed by the downhill appeal of the Fuel EX 7 as it descended over this terrain.

Reasons for Outstanding Performance

Why we would say it performs well, has a lot to do with the configuration of the rear suspension. The Trek Fuel EX 7’s upgraded fork has enough travel to absorb vibrations in the swoop and damp the shock very well.

Not only that, but the vacuum tires, which are wide enough to act as shock absorbers when on sharp and exciting downhill roads. When we encounter larger rocks, the powerful drivetrain takes the rider straight through. When we encounter larger mounds of dirt, the dropper is designed to give us a good rebound and a strong performance in terms of shock absorption.

In sharp turns, the relatively loose head tube angle (66°) will be more stable in the face of steering.

It is also equipped with DebonAir, which not only makes the body lighter, but also acts as a cushion on bumpy paths.

As I tried to create a trail for myself, the components of the EX 7 Trek did the trick, allowing me to experience not only wind-like speed but also a great sense of security as I flew down.

When it came to downhill trips, the Trek Fuel EX 7 excelled and was a great descender.

As we all know from hiking and climbing, we need to have a strong conviction when climbing. I believe the Trek Fuel EX 7 has the same conviction when it comes to climbing. Of course, this is not just wishful thinking on my part, but the vacuum tires on the Fuel EX 7 Bontrager XR4 Team Issue and the set-up of the fork tell the story.

Fire Road Ride

The test was at the place where I live, where there is a fire road leading to the top of a nearby hill. Being on such a road gave me stress. Here I have to admit that I have fallen nose-to-nose many times due to skidding.

This time the Bontrager XR4 Team Issue vacuum tires on the Fuel EX 7 stopped me from being upset about the fire road. There was another rocky section of road to climb on the way to the summit, and the Trek Fuel EX 7’s lightweight body and lockable rear fork allowed us to enjoy the sunset before it was too late.

If you don’t want to get your money’s worth, check out other mountain bikes, but I’d recommend you give the Fuel EX 7 a go.

The Trek Fuel EX 7’s Bontrager XR4 Team Issue tires, with their aggressive appearance, proved to be excellent in loose and rocky conditions. Even on gravel-laden terrain, the large 27.5×2.60′ size and aggressive tread provided agile cornering and plenty of braking power.

Brief Sum-up

When our testers carried out the climbing test, we felt the full traction of the tires. Not only that, but the lockable shock forks make climbing even easier.

It comes with Shimano hubs, and the Rapid Drive 54 hub has the ability to quickly and efficiently convert effort into forwarding momentum. So when the reviewer was on the pedals, the Rapid Drive 54 hub’s timely acceleration function provided a huge boost.

The Trek Fuel EX 7’s SRAM NX Eagle 1×12 drivetrain and a maximum of 50 gears were designed to give us a stable ride on the climbs.

Key Features

What surprised me was the paint color of the Trek Fuel EX 7, which attracted me at first sight. The cool Radioactive Red, and the restrained Dark Prismatic, all caught my fancy.

Also noteworthy is the Control Freak’s cable management, which threads any combination of shift, brake, locking, and drip post cables through the frame for a neat look.

We are also concerned that the EX Fuel 7 has a water bottle mounting hole in the downtube. You may think this is too small, but you may not have noticed that the upper part of the downtube can be opened. You can put some tools and other essentials in there and it doesn’t make the body heavier or less tidy.

Not only that, but the Alpha Platinum Aluminum is light enough and strong enough to provide a powerful ride for climbing. It also allows for agile maneuvering if you encounter an urgent turn.

To be honest, the length of the Trek Fuel EX 7’s compact Effective top tube (size M 60.3) would not allow a tall rider like me to stretch my arms. So, you should always be aware of the size when buying.

However, the Trek Fuel EX 7’s smaller frame (XS and S) has a top tube that tilts down as it approaches the seat tube, which lowers the stand-up height. This helps smaller riders to get on and off the bike and allows them to straddle the bike more easily.

Some people may be concerned that this is detrimental to taller riders, but the Trek Fuel EX takes care of this too. The larger M and above Trek Fuel EX has a straight top tube, which is just as beneficial for those of you with longer legs.

There are many different sizes of Trek EX Fuel 7 mountain bikes, so you can find one that fits your height.

Right off the bat, the Trek Fuel EX 7’s geometry struck me as novel, resembling an obtuse triangular frame. It allowed our reviewer to apply more forceful hand force to the head tube for steering control when descending. Not only that, but the slack seat tube angle (67.5° in M size) will allow you to actively lower the height of your center of gravity when climbing, for better and more stability on climbs.

The looser head tube angle (66.0° in size M) may be perceived as a hindrance to steering, but our review showed that it provides more stable steering in rough and difficult terrain. To complete the picture, we also looked at the length of the Frame reach, 44cm in size M. This shorter Frame reach will allow smaller people to stretch their arms freely, and the air spring design will give cushioning to protect the arms.

The lower BB (max. 34.6 cm) will make the bike more stable by lowering the center of gravity and will give you greater safety on very aggressive descents.

Not only that, but we’ve also looked at the Fuel EX 7 equipped with ABP, which allows you to actively adjust the suspension, meaning you get more agile and reliable control when you hit an obstacle, which is certainly not a novel experience.

Components and Specifications

Sram nx eagle 1 x 12 speed.

The Trek Fuel EX 7 uses the SRAM NX Eagle, a 1×12 speed drivetrain, which gives the Fuel EX 7 a wider range of speeds. Some people think that this is the most entry-level drivetrain for the NX 1×12 and that the 1×12 is heavy compared to the other high end 12 speed SRAM NX Eagle. I don’t think so, and I don’t think that the extra few hundred grams on a full-suspension bike at this level actually has any impact on the overall ride (because of the air fork setup).

Not only that, but the SRAM NX Eagle uses a steel frame for the rear derailleur, although not the high-end carbon and aluminum. However, this does not reduce its durability and is using the same shifting technology, which reduces your difficulties when shifting and allows for smoother shifting.

Shimano RT56, 6-bolt, and SRAM CenterLine, 6-bolt Braking

The Trek Fuel EX 7 uses Shimano RT56, 6-bolt and SRAM CenterLine, 6-bolt brakes on the front and rear wheels respectively, and the dual piston braking equipment will have a more responsive braking ability.

The Trek EX Fuel 7 combines these two brakes, not only to give the Trek Fuel EX 7 smoother braking, which will remain smooth when braking, but also to adapt to braking on all types of terrain.

In addition, this two-piston brake installation is not as difficult as one might expect and can be done quickly.

When I was swooping down from the edge of the road on the Trek Fuel EX 7, the smooth braking of the twin pistons quickly brought me to a halt when I didn’t have time to react to a tight turn on the high-speed descent. I really think it’s going to be one of my favorite mountain bikes.

If you have high standards when it comes to braking your bike, then the price and braking of this bike will successfully catch your eye.

RockShox 35 Gold RL Fork

At this price, the Trek Fuel EX 7 uses a RockShox 35 Gold RL fork. the DebonAir springs are lighter than the others and the Motion Control damping has low-speed compression and adjustable lockout. The fork’s 140mm of travel can be a hindrance to riding on flat roads, but I don’t think this will affect my enjoyment of this value-for-money fork.

Fox Performance Float Shock absorbers

The Trek Fuel EX 7 uses Fox Performance Float shocks. This is a higher priced shock and is very durable. This fork won’t hold you back, it has an internal 3-position DPS damper with 3 adjustments. This makes it possible to deal with a wide range of situations and dampens the shock better. This is really a shining point that makes me happy.

The Trek Fuel EX 7 is equipped with Bontrager XR4 Team Issue vacuum tires, which are available in sizes up to 29”.

The Bontrager XR4 Team Issue will be relatively light in weight with its vacuum tires. The 29×2.60” tire size is suitable for climbing on a wide range of terrain and the 120tpi not only provides plenty of power but is also puncture resistant.

Compared to mountain bikes with fat tires, this one will perform surprisingly well on flat road rides. Its steering traction, when we encounter urgent corners, will provide a great boost.

Trek Fuel EX 7 Previous versions

As you know, the Trek Fuel EX 7 is the upgraded EX series, preceded by the Trek Fuel EX 5. The Trek Fuel EX 7 is slightly more expensive than the Trek Fuel EX 5, but the Trek Fuel EX 7 has upgraded the suspension, drivetrain, and tires to give you a safer and freer ride. If you prefer to spend more time off-road in the mountains and riding on steep descents, I think you could look at the Trek Fuel EX 7.

What do we like about it?

• The full shock absorbers shine when facing downhill.
• Simple and easy to handle dropper that can be modulated for shock absorption when the rider jumps.
• The aluminum frame is not only light in weight but also strong and wear-resistant.
• Multiple sizes, friendly to people with short stature.

What don’t we like about it?

• It would have been better if the operation of the dropper could have been simpler and easier (e.g. electric control), but at this price this is reasonable.
• Some would argue that the SRAM NX Eagle, with its 1×12 drivetrain, would be relatively heavy in terms of weight, but I don’t think the relatively few hundred extra grams would affect the speed of the ride.
• What material is the frame of the Trek Fuel EX 7 made of?

The frame of the Trek Fuel EX 7 is made of Alpha Platinum Aluminium.

• What is the maximum tire size of the Trek Fuel EX 7?

The maximum tire size on the Trek Fuel EX 7 is 29×2.60″.

• What is the drivetrain of the Trek Fuel EX 7?

The drivetrain of the Trek Fuel EX 7 is an SRAM NX Eagle, 1 x 12 speed.

Comparison Table

Trek fuel ex 7 vs norco fluid fs a3.

The two mountain bikes don’t feel very different in terms of their overall design. When I was riding the Norco Fluid FS A3, I noticed that the Norco Fluid FS A3 was bulkier, although it had an outstanding performance on climbs. After this, I found out that the Norco Fluid FS A3 is made of 6061 Alloy, and the platinum aluminum used in the Trek Fuel EX 7 is lighter in weight and very hard-wearing.

Let’s move on to the brakes. The Norco Fluid FS A3 uses the Tektro HD-745 4-piston design, which gives it good performance in terms of braking.

The Norco Fluid FS A3 SRAM SX 1×12 transmission, however, has some difficulties when facing downhill. the SRAM NX Eagle of the Trek Fuel EX 7, with its 1×12 transmission, gives it an excellent performance when facing downhill.

If exciting downhill riding is more your thing, check out the Trek Fuel EX 7.

Trek Fuel EX 7 vs Marin Rift Zone 29″ Carbon 2

I have to say that the Marin Rift Zone 29″ Carbon 2 is a mountain bike with a high-end design. It uses a carbon frame, which is expensive, but that doesn’t detract from my appreciation of the Trek Fuel EX 7.

The Trek Fuel EX 7 uses a platinum aluminum frame, which is relatively inexpensive and you don’t have to worry about its longevity. design for sensitive and stable braking. Its brake lever has an optimized lever shaft position that not only has extra contact points but also matches the habits of most riders.

If you are into rich paint colors, take a look at the Trek Fuel EX 7. I think it is good value for money and the excellent components give the Trek Fuel EX 7 even more capability.

Trek Fuel EX 7 vs Intense Sniper T 29 Expert

The Intense Sniper T 29 Expert is a hardtail bike with an expensive carbon fiber frame, which makes it lighter overall and will make it easier to ride on long trail rides. The dropper and fork are designed to absorb shock. Intense Sniper T 29 Expert is available in two paint colors, and each paint color is a combination of several colors that will be more appealing to youngsters.

To be honest, there is nothing for me to complain about except the price of the Intense Sniper T 29 Expert. For around $1000 the Trek Fuel EX 7 full shock bike gives me a premium experience not only in terms of shock absorption, but also in terms of descending and climbing features. If, for example, you want a good value for money bike, check out the Trek Fuel EX 7.

Trek Fuel EX 7 vs Trek Fuel EX 5

These two bikes from Trek Fuel EX use the same Alpha Platinum Aluminum for the frame and are the same 1×12 shifting, the difference being the Trek Fuel EX 5 Shimano Deore M6100. This drivetrain has a lower rear derailleur and chain tension in lower gears to maintain consistent power even on rough trails.

Of course, we also have to look at the SRAM NX Eagle in the Trek Fuel EX 7. Some people think that the SRAM NX 1×12 will be heavier, but I don’t think this has much of an effect on the Trek Fuel EX 7. On the contrary, the overall weight of the Trek Fuel EX 5 is heavier than the Trek Fuel EX 7.

In terms of components, the Trek Fuel EX 7 has been upgraded. The Trek Fuel EX 7 is more agile than the Trek Fuel EX 5. The Trek Fuel EX 7 has a Knock Block design which protects your head tube if you are making a sharp turn and reduces frictional losses.

As the Trek Fuel EX 5 is not a vacuum tire, it is heavier and the Trek Fuel EX 7 is designed with a vacuum tire, which rolls faster and provides the same great traction on bumpy trails.

The Trek Fuel EX 7 is more expensive due to the cost of the vacuum tire. However, I think this is totally justified as it gives you a more comfortable riding experience.

In case, the above comments are helpful to you, please remember to share the subscription. Have a great day!

Learn more: Trek Fuel EX 5 Review-How Does It Break Through The Obstacles Of The Trail?

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