trek fuel ex 8 dropper post

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2017 Trek Fuel EX 8 Dropper Upgrade

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• Fuel EX 8 Gen 5

Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 5

Fuel EX 8 is the ideal trail bike for riders who want a versatile full suspension ripper that makes soul-crushing climbs less painful, but can also huck rowdy trails. It hits the sweet spot of value and performance in our mountain bike lineup by combining high-end parts with a stout but light alloy frame. It's right for you if... You're cool with your wheels leaving the ground, but you also like to go the distance on marathon singletrack sessions. You want a bike that lets you crush any trail, and your priority is on the parts. The tech you get An alloy frame, 140mm FOX Rhythm 34 fork, and 130mm of rear travel with an extra-efficient RE:aktiv damper. A Shimano XT 1x12 drivetrain with an extra-low 51-tooth climbing gear, plus a Bontrager Line dropper post. The final word Fuel EX 8 gives you added efficiency with Shimano's latest, widest-range drivetrain and Trek's unique RE:aktiv damper that provides firm pedaling support without giving up any plush compliance. Why you'll love it - A wider gear range and more efficient suspension help you claw your way up tricky climbs you never thought you'd clean - If you measure quality in performance per dollar, you won't do better than Fuel EX 8 - This bike will make you want to rail every corner, smash every rock garden, and charge every descent - The shifter-style, underbar remote dropper post lever is super intuitive and easy to use - We expanded our size range to ensure a better fit for all riders. And, you get the fastest wheel that fits your frame: XS frames get 27.5" wheels, S - frames get to choose between 27.5" or 29", and sizes M to XL get 29" wheels

Dropper posts

A dropper seatpost allows you to quickly lower and raise your seat to give you an ideal riding position. Dropping your seat creates a lower center of gravity for better control and maneuverability on steep descents, while raising it puts you at normal riding height for efficient pedaling.

Construction can include either hydraulic- or cable-actuated systems and the post’s travel can either be infinitely adjustable or stopped at set intervals, depending on the model.

Dropper seatposts come in standard lengths and diameters and vary by the amount of travel.

Will my bike have a curved top tube?

Smaller frames (XS and S) have a top tube that dips down as it approaches the seat tube. This design makes for a lower standover height, which is good for shorter riders because it allows them to straddle their bike more easily. Larger frames (M and up) have a straight top tube because taller riders with longer legs typically don’t have the same issues with standover height.

Wheel size: Sizes X-Small – Small: 27.5-inch Sizes Small – XX-Large: 29-inch

Pedals sold separately, due to supply-chain issues, specs are subject to change without notice..

* Subject to change without notice.

Part Numbers

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• Fuel EX 8 Gen 5

Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 5

Fuel EX 8 is the ideal trail bike for riders who want a versatile full suspension ripper that makes soul-crushing climbs less painful, but can also huck rowdy trails. It hits the sweet spot of value and performance in our mountain bike lineup by combining high-end parts with a stout but light alloy frame. It's right for you if... You're cool with your wheels leaving the ground, but you also like to go the distance on marathon singletrack sessions. You want a bike that lets you crush any trail, and your priority is on the parts. The tech you get An alloy frame, 140mm FOX Rhythm 34 fork, and 130mm of rear travel with an extra-efficient RE:aktiv damper. A Shimano XT 1x12 drivetrain with an extra-low 51-tooth climbing gear, powerful 4-piston brakes, Bontrager wheels with a 54-tooth Rapid Drive hub for fast engagement plus a Bontrager Line dropper post. The final word Fuel EX 8 gives you added efficiency with Shimano's latest, widest-range drivetrain and Trek's unique RE:aktiv damper that provides firm pedaling support without giving up any plush compliance. Why you'll love it - A wider gear range and more efficient suspension help you claw your way up tricky climbs you never thought you'd clean - If you measure quality in performance per dollar, you won't do better than Fuel EX 8 - This bike will make you want to rail every corner, smash every rock garden, and charge every descent - The shifter-style, underbar remote dropper post lever is super intuitive and easy to use - We expanded our size range to ensure a better fit for all riders. And, you get the fastest wheel that fits your frame: XS frames get 27.5" wheels, S frames get to choose between 27.5" or 29", and sizes M to XL get 29" wheels Wheel size: - Sizes X-Small – Small: 27.5-inch - Sizes Small – XX-Large: 29-inch

Will my bike have a curved top tube?

Smaller frames (S) have a top tube that dips down as it approaches the seat tube. This design makes for a lower standover height, which is good for shorter riders because it allows them to straddle their bike more easily. Larger frames (M and up) have a straight top tube because taller riders with longer legs typically don’t have the same issues with standover height.

Due to supply-chain issues, Specs are subject to change without notice.

* Subject to change without notice.

Part Numbers

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• Fuel EX 8 Gen 5

Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 5

Fuel EX 8 is the ideal trail bike for riders who want a versatile full suspension ripper that makes soul-crushing climbs less painful, but can also huck rowdy trails. It hits the sweet spot of value and performance in our mountain bike lineup by combining high-end parts with a stout but light alloy frame. It's right for you if... You're cool with your wheels leaving the ground, but you also like to go the distance on marathon singletrack sessions. You want a bike that lets you crush any trail, and your priority is on the parts. The tech you get An alloy frame, 140mm FOX Rhythm 34 fork, and 130mm of rear travel with an extra-efficient RE:aktiv damper. A Shimano XT 1x12 drivetrain with an extra-low 51-tooth climbing gear, plus a Bontrager Line dropper post. The final word Fuel EX 8 gives you added efficiency with Shimano's latest, widest-range drivetrain and Trek's unique RE:aktiv damper that provides firm pedaling support without giving up any plush compliance. Why you'll love it - A wider gear range and more efficient suspension help you claw your way up tricky climbs you never thought you'd clean - If you measure quality in performance per dollar, you won't do better than Fuel EX 8 - This bike will make you want to rail every corner, smash every rock garden, and charge every descent - The shifter-style, underbar remote dropper post lever is super intuitive and easy to use - We expanded our size range to ensure a better fit for all riders. And, you get the fastest wheel that fits your frame: XS frames get 27.5" wheels, S - frames get to choose between 27.5" or 29", and sizes M to XL get 29" wheels

Dropper posts

A dropper seatpost allows you to quickly lower and raise your seat to give you an ideal riding position. Dropping your seat creates a lower center of gravity for better control and maneuverability on steep descents, while raising it puts you at normal riding height for efficient pedaling.

Construction can include either hydraulic- or cable-actuated systems and the post’s travel can either be infinitely adjustable or stopped at set intervals, depending on the model.

Dropper seatposts come in standard lengths and diameters and vary by the amount of travel.

Will my bike have a curved top tube?

Smaller frames (XS and S) have a top tube that dips down as it approaches the seat tube. This design makes for a lower standover height, which is good for shorter riders because it allows them to straddle their bike more easily. Larger frames (M and up) have a straight top tube because taller riders with longer legs typically don’t have the same issues with standover height.

Wheel size: Sizes X-Small – Small: 27.5-inch Sizes Small – XX-Large: 29-inch

Pedals sold separately, due to supply-chain issues, specs are subject to change without notice..

* Subject to change without notice.

• Rider Notes

2022 Trek Fuel EX 8

A 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum frame full suspension trail bike with high-end components. Compare the full range

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

Compare the full Fuel EX model range

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 · 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

Dec 2022 · Mike Levy

The downtube storage compartment is on the new bike, and while it seems like Trek has put all the things onto the latest Fuel EX, there's one that they didn't: Knock Block.

Wide range of effective geometry adjustments

Just as much fun on smooth trails as it is on scary trails

Great climber, efficient pedaling

One-piece handlebar might be too stiff for some riders

Paint chips easily

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.

May 2022 · Guy Kesteven

Trek’s alloy Fuel EX trail mountain bike lacks the latest features but is the overall package still a winner?

Tight, precise frame

Sorted all round handling

Very efficient suspension feel

Durable Shimano kit

Excellent sizing options

Heavy frame

No internal storage

Press fit bottom bracket

Top Fuel is more playful

Last updated May 4 Not listed for 14 days

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Trek Fuel EX 8

Fuel EX 8 is the ideal trail bike for mountain bikers who want a versatile full suspension ripper that can crush marathon and multi-stage races and still huck with the enduro crew. It hits the sweet spot of value and performance in our mountain bike lineup with an Alpha Aluminum frame, 140mm front and 130mm rear suspension, and SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain. It's right for you if... You're cool with your wheels leaving the ground, but you also like to go the distance on marathon singletrack sessions and aim to clear every rock garden on the first try. You want exceptional trail bike performance with the same MTB frame and suspension tech found on higher-end trail bikes, at an exceptional value. The tech you get A lightweight Alpha Platinum Aluminum frame, a 140mm FOX Rhythm 34 fork and 130mm of rear travel with a FOX Performance Float shock with Trek's exclusive RE:aktiv damper—it's enough suspension to go big while staying fast on the flats and climbs. A SRAM GX Eagle 1x12 drivetrain with a wide-range 10-50 cassette, Tubeless Ready Bontrager Line Comp 30 wheels, Shimano Deore hydraulic disc brakes, and a Bontrager Line dropper post for on-the-fly saddle height adjustments. The final word It's a trail bike that is fully capable of keeping up with whatever you throw at it. It has the same frame and suspension tech found on our top-of-the-line trail bikes, with a SRAM GX Eagle 1x12 drivetrain that delivers a huge range of gearing with the simplicity of a single shifter. Why you'll love it - This bike is perfect for shredding singletrack, hitting drops, and pushing your limits in multi-stage and marathon events - If you measure quality in performance per dollar, you won't do better than Fuel EX 8 - You sense its capability immediately, like when you're charging through sections of trail you never thought you'd clean - The shifter-style, underbar remote dropper post lever is super intuitive and easy to use - We expanded our size range to ensure a better fit for all riders. And, you get the fastest wheel that fits your frame: XS frames get 27.5-inch wheels, S frames get to choose between 27.5-inch or 29-inch, and sizes M to XL get 29-inch wheels

Will my bike have a curved top tube?

Smaller frames (XS and S) have a top tube that dips down as it approaches the seat tube. This design makes for a lower standover height, which is good for shorter riders because it allows them to straddle their bike more easily. Larger frames (M and up) have a straight top tube because taller riders with longer legs typically don’t have the same issues with standover height.

Dropper posts

A dropper seatpost allows you to quickly lower and raise your seat to give you an ideal riding position. Dropping your seat creates a lower center of gravity for better control and maneuverability on steep descents, while raising it puts you at normal riding height for efficient pedaling.

Construction can include either hydraulic- or cable-actuated systems and the post’s travel can either be infinitely adjustable or stopped at set intervals, depending on the model.

Dropper seatposts come in standard lengths and diameters and vary by the amount of travel.

Wheel size: Sizes X-Small–Small: 27.5-inch Sizes Small–X-Large: 29-inch

Pedals sold separately.

* Subject to change without notice.

Trek Fuel EX

Trek Fuel EX 8 review – still one of the best trail MTBs?

Trek’s alloy fuel ex trail mountain bike lacks the latest features but is the overall package still a winner.

BikePerfect Verdict

Heavy frame that misses the latest features but still a great package for fast and precise all round mountain biking

Tight, precise frame

Sorted all round handling

Very efficient suspension feel

Durable Shimano kit

Excellent sizing options

Heavy frame

No internal storage

Press fit bottom bracket

Top Fuel is more playful

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 Fuel EX has been one of the best mountain bikes in the world for years, but the alloy-framed 8 is lacking some of the features the latest alloy and carbon Treks. High-durability component spec matches the vibe of a really well-balanced bike. One that plans ahead, hands its homework in early (having double checked it) and rarely puts a wheel wrong or goads you into being silly yourself. So how has Trek done that and is there a better option in the range if you want something short on travel but big on fun?

Design and aesthetics

Trek has been using a rocker link-driven, vertical shock suspension design on its bikes for so long that “Looks like a Trek Session” is a cliche on most MTB forums. No surprise then that the Fuel EX continues the clean looks which leave plenty of room for a big bottle on the down tube and strap-on storage. You don’t get the internal storage of the newer Top Fuel alloy frame though and this older frame still uses a press-fit bottom bracket rather than reverting to a more reliable threaded  format. There are ISCG chain keeper tabs on the BB though, a wider-angle Knock Block steering limiter to stop bars hitting the frame in a crash and rear axle concentric ABP rear suspension pivot. Cunning zip tie tabbed ‘Control Freak’ internal cable routing and rubber frame armor including molded chainstay sleeves keep things quiet. 

You also get the 0.5-degree geometry change ‘Mino Link’ flip chip at the seat stay/rocker pivot. That changes head angle from 65.5- to 65-degrees and effective seat angle from 75.5- to 75-degrees on the Large I tested. Reach also shifts from 475 to 470mm and BB height drops from 346 to 340mm. The big win with choosing a Trek though is the sheer range of sizes from XXS to XXL including a sweet spot ML in the centre. Smaller bikes also run 27.5in wheels for proportional balance, too, although the chainstays are the same length on all frame sizes. The Fuel EX 8 is also available in three different two-tone color options.

Specification

Trek acknowledges that the ‘priority is on the parts’ with the EX 8 and the highlight is an almost complete Shimano XT drivetrain (the chain is SLX). The Fox Float shock is a custom unit, too, using a Penske race car derived RE:aktiv damper setup for a pert-pedaling feel on top of the 130mm travel. The 140mm Fox 34 fork is the stock Rhythm spec though and the Shimano brakes are basic four-piston MT400s. Bontrager’s functional Line component range completes the bike in well-judged, size-specific cockpit options although dropper post strokes are short on the larger sizes. Big volume versions of Bontrager’s XR5 and XR4 tires on Bontrager Line Comp 30mm internal rims put plenty of air between bike and trail for protection, too.

Performance

While the EX8 isn’t light at just under 15kg (a full kilo heavier than Trek claims) it’s in the ballpark for a mid-travel, alloy-framed bike at this price. What really stands out is how well it hides that weight when it comes to pedaling. The big tires don’t drag nearly as much as they look like they might, while the RE:aktiv shock and overall kinematic give it a really clean, crisp and stable platform to put down power from. That means even with three potential low-compression settings to play with, we rarely felt compelled to flick it out of full open unless we were hoofing uphill out of the saddle. Add the clean shifting, top-quality Shimano XT drivetrain and the Fuel EX is a great choice for high-mileage rides and riders. The fast-engaging ‘Rapid Drive’ freehub and relatively high ground clearance are a bonus for anyone who likes to kick hard out of corners or attack rough technical climbs, too. The efficient suspension feel still gives enough sensitivity to track the ground under power and you can drop pressures in the big tires if you’re into a proper ‘crawler/swamper’ feel. 

The 140mm fork/130mm rear travel feels well balanced on the trail and the Grip damper Fox Rhythm repeatedly proved why its our favorite cost-effective fork. Trek’s suspension calculator is accurate enough to get most people sorted on set-up for most situations. The angles and proportions of the model we tested were confident at speed on jumps but still turned in promptly on woodland twisters. Even the basic Shimano brakes feel better than normal through the neutral suspension responses created by the ABP pivot and the 200mm rotor up front boosts power, too.

While you could speed up reactions with a shorter stem, the stock setup probably suits its overall character better. That’s because while it will pop and play off trailside opportunities if you’re in the mood, it does tend to sit on top of an already relatively high ride height rather than sucking down onto the trail and railing. Interestingly that’s a big - and counter intuitive - difference to the Top Fuel 8. With slightly steeper angles, less travel, significantly different suspension kinematic and top-spec RockShox rear shock, Trek’s pocket rocket has an addictively playful charisma that’s very much at odds with it’s ‘XC’ categorization. 

In fact, despite it being heavier we’d probably opt for the Fuel EX for long marathon-style or efficiency-based events, especially as it’s significantly cheaper than its little brother, leaving you more cash for race entries and energy products. Just make sure you keep an eye on the press-fit bottom bracket and get it replaced as soon as it shows any signs of wobble/creak as that can eventually creates frame issues.

Trek’s Fuel range might be a bit backwards when it comes to assigning categories based on travel but the main thing is that the Fuel EX is still a really efficient, enjoyable and fitness/skill flattering all rounder. While it misses out on the internal storage, threaded BB and super-plush playfulness of the Top Fuel, Shimano XT will always bring a lot of hard riding boys (and girls) to the yard. Those are exactly the riders who’ll appreciate just how well this extremely well balanced bike covers ground and keeps a fresh and sharp feel long into the day, and down tough technical sections, too. 

Tech Specs: Trek Fuel EX 8 XT

• Price: $3,929.99 / £3,200
• Discipline: Trail
• Head angle: 66/66.5-degrees
• Frame material: Trek Alpha Platinum Aluminum
• Sizes: XS, S, M, M/L, L (tested) XL, XXL
• Weight: 14.9kg
• Wheel size: 29 x 2.3in
• Suspension (front/rear): Fox Rhythm 34, Float EVOL 140mm travel, 44mm offset/Fox Performance Float EVOL, 3-position RE:aktiv 130mm travel
• Components: Shimano XT 10-51T, 12-speed gearing, shifter, chainset and cassette. Shimano SLX chain. Shimano MT400 brakes with 200/180mm rotors. Bontrager XR4 Team Issue 29 x 2.6in front and Bontrager XR5 Team Issue 29 x 2.5in rear tires on Bontrager Line Comp 30 wheels. Bontrager Line 780 x 35mm bar and 50 x 35 mm stem, Bontrager Line Dropper 150mm dropper post, Bontrager Arvada saddle

Guy has been working on Bike Perfect since launch in 2019. He started 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, Specialized Chisel, custom Nicolai enduro tandem, Landescape/Swallow custom gravel tandem

Height: 180cm

Weight: 69kg

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2024 BUDGET BIKE ROUNDUP

Trek fuel ex 5 gen 5 review.

Words by Travis Reill  |  Photos by Dusten Ryen & Brian Niles Sponsored by Leatt & Tifosi Optics

With trail bikes in Trek’s lineup reaching five-digit prices, it is nice to see the industry giant offer a full-suspension trail bike that doesn’t break the bank. Trek was kind enough to send us the Fuel EX 5 to ride and review in our budget-bike shoot-out. At just under $2,500, the Fuel EX 5 is one of the most expensive bikes on test. We were excited to get the Fuel EX 5 out on the trails and see how it stacks up against the others in our test bike group.

• 130mm single-pivot ABP • Flip-chip adjustable geo • HTA 66.5 (high setting) • STA 75.5 (high setting) • REACH 475 (Large, high setting)

Big-brand Security

Highest Quality Frame On Test

WE DON’T

Short dropper post

Wide, Heavy wheels

Least Pedaling Support Of The Group

ABOUT THE TREK FUEL EX 5

Many of us are familiar with Trek’s trail-busting Fuel EX line. The Gen 6 Fuel EX saw added travel – not to mention a new frame design – but that doesn’t mean there isn’t room for the shorter-travel younger sibling out on the trails. With 140/130mm of travel and relatively moderate geometry, the Trek Fuel Gen 5 has been a trail bike many have reached for years.

FRAME AND FEATURES

Trek’s Fuel EX 5 features Alpha Platinum Aluminum. Trek boasts their aluminum “is continuously cold extruded and butted at multiple points, and hydroformed into sophisticated tube shapes for maximum strength and minimum weight.” The Fuel EX also has Trek’s Knock Block headset system, which prevents the handlebars from hitting the top tube and causing damage in a crash. Cables are internally routed, and the frame is offered in two color options: black, or the black and yellow we received.

The Fuel EX is offered in seven sizes, from XS to XL. X-small and small frame sizes come with 27.5-inch wheels and a pronounced dip in the top tube to help with standover height. Sizes medium and up are all equipped with 29-inch wheels. If you are familiar with Trek’s sizing, you will know that they also offer a medium/large size for those in between the two sizes. This is the only “in-between” size offered.

Trek’s Mino Link allows you to change the Fuel EX’s geometry. Switching from high to low will slacken the bike by 0.5°, drop the BB by 6mm, and shorten the reach by 5mm. While the bike comes with a 140mm travel fork, Trek gives allowance for bumping up to 150mm to improve descending capability.

The Fuel EX is essentially a linkage-driven single-pivot with one key difference—a pivot at the rear axle. Trek calls this their Active Braking Pivot (ABP) design. On most suspension designs, braking is considered to negatively impact the rear suspension’s ability to absorb impacts and provide traction. Trek’s ABP design aims to allow the rear suspension to remain more active under braking forces.

The Fuel EX 5’s geometry remains relatively moderate compared to today’s trail bike trends. For clarity’s sake, I’ll share the geometry in the “high” setting of the geometry-adjusting Flip Chip. The head tube angle is 66.5° and is paired with a 75.5° seat tube angle. The Stack Height ranges from 559mm to 623mm and Reach lengths range from 400mm to 500mm. Our size large came in at 609mm and 475mm respectively..

The BB height is 341mm in X-small and small, then 346mm for medium and up. Similarly, the BB drop is only 14mm below the axles on the two smallest sizes, and 28mm on sizes medium and up to account for the larger wheels. 436mm chainstays feature across all sizes. Our size Large Wheelbase totalled 1211mm.

BUILD SPECS

For the Fuel EX 5, Trek only offers two build options: a higher-end, 9.8 AXS Gen 5 and the budget-friendly EX 5 they sent us at $2,499. Leading the charge on our test bike was a Rockshox Recon Silver with the Motion Control damper and lockout. In the rear, there was a X-Fusion Pro 2 shock with “open” and “climb” positions.

The drivetrain is a complete Shimano Deore M6100 12-speed build, with Shimano’s 10-51 tooth cassette and a 30-tooth chainring. Shimano also handles the brakes, with 2-caliper hydraulic stoppers and 180mm rotors. 35mm width Alex MD35 wheels are laced to Bontrager hubs, and roll on wide 2.6 Maxxis Rekons. Bontrager makes up the rest of the build with tires, cockpit, and saddle—with the exception of a TranzX dropper post at a short 130mm drop length.

With a brand name as large as Trek, our expectations with the Fuel EX 5 were reasonably high. Even with a more budget-friendly component build, we figured Trek’s proven platform would shine through, regardless of the parts hanging from the frame.

When we tested the Trek Fuel EX 5 on the trails, we found it best suited for riders looking to put in miles. Its very moderate 66.5° headtube angle—the steepest of any of the bikes on test—puts the rider’s body more toward the front of the bike. This allows for a comfortable pedaling position, especially on climbs, which the Fuel EX 5 did reasonably well on. That forward-heavy position also provided good handling on the relatively techy bits of the climbs.

Even with a steeper headtube angle, the Fuel EX 5 wasn’t overly twitchy on faster descents. With 130mm of rear travel, it tackled some rough and chunky trails reasonably well, but finding its limit was quite easy for our aggressive riding crew. It also jumped decently, although the suspension had been firmed up quite a bit. This was done out of necessity, to add support to prevent harsh bottoming out on harder hits. Less aggressive riders looking for a more conventional light-duty trail bike may not feel the need to do the same.

One thing that seemed to hold the Trek Fuel EX 5 back while descending was the dropper post. Our size large EX 5 came with a 130mm dropper, a much shorter length than we’re used to for a size large frame. This meant having quite a bit less post insertion to get proper saddle height for climbing. When it was time to point the EX 5 downhill, the seat, even when dropped all the way down, was high enough between your legs to make handling the bike uncomfortable.

Initially, the expectation was that the Trek Fuel EX 5 might be the most efficient and best pedaling bike on test. However, we found that this wasn’t the case once we hit the trails. The bike’s geometry teased that as the case, but something seemed to be holding it back. After several of our testers spent considerable time on the Fuel EX, we concluded that the rolling weight of the wheels made the bike seem sluggish. We’re not sure why a trail bike is spec’d with 35mm inner width rims, but that, combined with 2.6 width tires, surely hurt the Trek’s performance when it came to rotational efficiency.

As with many of the other budget bikes in the field, the suspension and brakes were also where the Trek Fuel EX 5 came up short. The Fuel EX 5 shared the same suspension, and many of the same issues, as the GT Sensor Sport. The fork and shock both seemed sticky, and there were very few adjustments. The air pressure X-Fusion recommended for me (Travis) essentially turned the bike into a hardtail. When I let air out to get an appropriate SAG, the shock bottomed out hopping off a curb. Regarding brakes, the Shimano 2-pistons performed better than some of the other brakes on the budget bikes, but they still left us wanting a bit more power.

The Wolf’s Last Word

Price: $2,499.99 Website: Trekbikes.com

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• Fuel EX 8 Gen 5

Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 5

Fuel EX 8 is the ideal trail bike for riders who want a versatile full suspension ripper that makes soul-crushing climbs less painful, but can also huck rowdy trails. It hits the sweet spot of value and performance in our mountain bike lineup by combining high-end parts with a stout but light alloy frame. It's right for you if... You're cool with your wheels leaving the ground, but you also like to go the distance on marathon singletrack sessions. You want a bike that lets you crush any trail, and your priority is on the parts. The tech you get An alloy frame, 140mm FOX Rhythm 34 fork, and 130mm of rear travel with an extra-efficient RE:aktiv damper. A Shimano XT 1x12 drivetrain with an extra-low 51-tooth climbing gear, plus a Bontrager Line dropper post. The final word Fuel EX 8 gives you added efficiency with Shimano's latest, widest-range drivetrain and Trek's unique RE:aktiv damper that provides firm pedaling support without giving up any plush compliance. Why you'll love it - A wider gear range and more efficient suspension help you claw your way up tricky climbs you never thought you'd clean - If you measure quality in performance per dollar, you won't do better than Fuel EX 8 - This bike will make you want to rail every corner, smash every rock garden, and charge every descent - The shifter-style, underbar remote dropper post lever is super intuitive and easy to use - We expanded our size range to ensure a better fit for all riders. And, you get the fastest wheel that fits your frame: XS frames get 27.5" wheels, S - frames get to choose between 27.5" or 29", and sizes M to XL get 29" wheels

Dropper posts

A dropper seatpost allows you to quickly lower and raise your seat to give you an ideal riding position. Dropping your seat creates a lower center of gravity for better control and maneuverability on steep descents, while raising it puts you at normal riding height for efficient pedaling.

Construction can include either hydraulic- or cable-actuated systems and the post’s travel can either be infinitely adjustable or stopped at set intervals, depending on the model.

Dropper seatposts come in standard lengths and diameters and vary by the amount of travel.

Will my bike have a curved top tube?

Smaller frames (XS and S) have a top tube that dips down as it approaches the seat tube. This design makes for a lower standover height, which is good for shorter riders because it allows them to straddle their bike more easily. Larger frames (M and up) have a straight top tube because taller riders with longer legs typically don’t have the same issues with standover height.

Wheel size: Sizes X-Small – Small: 27.5-inch Sizes Small – XX-Large: 29-inch

Pedals sold separately, due to supply-chain issues, specs are subject to change without notice..

* Subject to change without notice.

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• Fuel EX 8 Gen 5

Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 5

Fuel EX 8 is the ideal trail bike for riders who want a versatile full suspension ripper that makes soul-crushing climbs less painful, but can also huck rowdy trails. It hits the sweet spot of value and performance in our mountain bike lineup by combining high-end parts with a stout but light alloy frame. It's right for you if... You're cool with your wheels leaving the ground, but you also like to go the distance on marathon singletrack sessions. You want a bike that lets you crush any trail, and your priority is on the parts. The tech you get An alloy frame, 140mm FOX Rhythm 34 fork, and 130mm of rear travel with an extra-efficient RE:aktiv damper. A Shimano XT 1x12 drivetrain with an extra-low 51-tooth climbing gear, plus a Bontrager Line dropper post. The final word Fuel EX 8 gives you added efficiency with Shimano's latest, widest-range drivetrain and Trek's unique RE:aktiv damper that provides firm pedaling support without giving up any plush compliance. Why you'll love it - A wider gear range and more efficient suspension help you claw your way up tricky climbs you never thought you'd clean - If you measure quality in performance per dollar, you won't do better than Fuel EX 8 - This bike will make you want to rail every corner, smash every rock garden, and charge every descent - The shifter-style, underbar remote dropper post lever is super intuitive and easy to use - We expanded our size range to ensure a better fit for all riders. And, you get the fastest wheel that fits your frame: XS frames get 27.5" wheels, S - frames get to choose between 27.5" or 29", and sizes M to XL get 29" wheels

Dropper posts

A dropper seatpost allows you to quickly lower and raise your seat to give you an ideal riding position. Dropping your seat creates a lower center of gravity for better control and maneuverability on steep descents, while raising it puts you at normal riding height for efficient pedaling.

Construction can include either hydraulic- or cable-actuated systems and the post’s travel can either be infinitely adjustable or stopped at set intervals, depending on the model.

Dropper seatposts come in standard lengths and diameters and vary by the amount of travel.

Will my bike have a curved top tube?

Smaller frames (XS and S) have a top tube that dips down as it approaches the seat tube. This design makes for a lower standover height, which is good for shorter riders because it allows them to straddle their bike more easily. Larger frames (M and up) have a straight top tube because taller riders with longer legs typically don’t have the same issues with standover height.

Wheel size: Sizes X-Small – Small: 27.5-inch Sizes Small – XX-Large: 29-inch

Pedals sold separately, due to supply-chain issues, specs are subject to change without notice..

* Subject to change without notice.

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Trek fuel ex 5 vs. Scott spark 960

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Tried finding a comparison for these two bike, but not a lot out there for the Scott (mostly others in the spark line). Hoping to buy one of these within the next few days, but am not sure which is the better bet. The trek is $1800 while the Scott is listed at $1900, but up until this weekend is at $1600. Just getting back into riding and am not really sure on which has the better components, and which I'll end up upgrading. Thanks,  

If you are just getting back into riding, start with the Scott. It has less (more manageable) suspension travel, and if it costs less, then if it fits it will be your best choice.  

IMO, don't waste your money with an EX5. It's such a baseline entry into the FS that it's not worth it. Go at least an EX6 and up.. As for Scott, couldn't tell you. Been seeing them more and more. I am considering one as my next bike. I demo'd a FS carbon model and loved it.  

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