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Field Test: Trek Fuel EX - Evolution Underlined

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The New Trek Fuel EX Puts On Weight, Punches Harder, and Expands Its Reach

Trek's new Fuel EX is bigger, more capable, and more adjustable

The Takeaway: The new EX is bigger and more capable. It faces tougher competition, but its performance, features, and adaptability make it a compelling option.

• 10mm more travel: now 140mm rear and a 150mm fork
• Two different geometry adjustments, plus adjustable shock rate
• Most aluminum frames now get internal storage
• Eight builds with the new platform starting at $3,700

Price: $2,700 to $10,750. As tested $10,750 (EX 9.9 XX1 AXS) Weight: 30.2 lb. to 35.2 lb. (claimed. 31.2 lb. as tested (EX 9.9 XX1 AXS, size medium)

Trek tries to cover a lot of ground with this one bike, which is why it has so many features and adjustments, plus a wide range of models and sizes. By trying to do so much with one bike, I worried that in making a bike to satisfy everyone, Trek made a bike that satisfies no one. After riding it I don’t think that’s the case. It’s no Holy Grail, but it is a fine machine for many riders, and a variety of terrain.

Trek Fuel EX Gallery

Trek Fuel EX—Builds, Prices, and Weights

The new Fuel EX launches with eight stock builds (three aluminum models and five carbon). The least expensive model, Fuel EX 5, uses the old frame platform (130mm rear travel with 140mm fork), while the rest use the new 140/150mm platform. Prices start at $2,700 for the EX 5 and top out at $10,750 for the EX 9.9 XX1 AXS.

Claimed frame weights are 3.4kg (7.5 lb.) for the carbon frame and 4.6kg (10.1lb.) for the aluminum frame. Complete bike weights start at 13.71kg (30.2lb) for the 9.9 XTR and go up to 15.96kg (35.2lb).

If you’re not feeling the stock options, the Fuel EX will drop into Trek’s Project One customization program (eventually) if you want to pick your paint and parts.

Trek Fuel EX – What’s New

Comparing the previous generation Fuel EX to this one, it is obvious this bike isn’t a mid-cycle refresh but a ground-up redesign of the brand’s mid-travel trail bike.

Outwardly, the Fuel EX displays a new frame design direction for Trek. First seen on the sibling EX-e electric bike , the new frame is more swole, with additional trusses linking the top tube to the seat tube and the seat tube to the down tube.

Part of the reason for the stouter-looking frame is a 10mm bump in travel at both ends: The rear increases to 140mm, paired with a 150mm fork. An additional change to the suspension is a two-position leverage-rate flip chip which offers a more and a less progressive setting. This is much easier than swapping volume spacers inside an air shock and also (in the more progressive position) makes the EX compatible with coil-spring shocks for the first time. But note that changing the leverage rate on the shock affects the spring and damper while changing volume spacers affects only the spring.

Trek also approved most of the new EX frames for the stouter RockShox Zeb and Fox 38 forks in up to 160mm travel.

With the bump in travel, the EX features revised geometry. The TL;DR: A 10 to 20mm longer reach, 1.5-degree slacker head tube angle, about a two-degree steeper seat tube angle, and size-specific chainstay lengths. As before, the EX has Trek’s two-position Mino Link in the rocker (which alters head and seat angles and BB drop.) New to the party are angle-adjusting headset cups which offer three head angle possibilities with no effect on bottom bracket drop/height. And if you like your wheel sizes mixed, the new EX is rated for that too.

The seat tube sees revisions that help it fit longer-travel dropper posts, and the post diameter was bumped up to 34.9mm. Your mileage may vary, but I’ve found the 34.9mm droppers operate more smoothly and are less likely to bind than 31.6 or 30.9mm droppers.

Trek added full-length guides to the EX’s internal routing to make assembly and maintenance easier, plus they can’t slap around in the downtube anymore. The guides also mean the hoses and hosing don’t interfere when you’re stuffing the repair kit burrito into the EX’s downtube. And talking of that downtube storage, it’s now built into the aluminum frames, in addition to the carbon.

The bottom bracket shell is now threaded, and there is a whole mess of plastic bolted to the downtube for impact and shuttle protection. Features carried over from the previous generation include Trek’s ABP suspension system, ISCG ’05 tabs, and the Mino Link flip chip in the rocker link.

Trek Fuel EX—No More Proprietary Shocks

One of the less conspicuous (but very significant) changes to the new EX is the adoption of a stock shock. Gone is the Thru Shaft design —which required a screw-in lower extender for the shock shaft—and the regressive Re:Activ damper tune . In its place is a standard shock, although it is custom-tuned for the frame (a step that all reputable brands take).

Abandoning suspension features has been somewhat of a theme for the Fuel EX. Follow the progression of EX since its debut in 2005, and you will see Trek adding new rear suspension technologies only to remove them for later iterations. This includes Full Floater (dynamic upper and lower shock mounts), DRCV (dual rate control valve) shocks (some EX forks had DRCV also), RE:Activ, and Thru Shaft. If you add in other since-abandoned features like Knock Block (a stop which limited handlebar rotation), and Press Fit 92 bottom brackets, previous generation EXs are a boneyard of forsaken technologies.

Why are Thru Shaft and Re:Aktiv gone? I asked Trek that question and am yet to receive a response. I sense that Trek will say the same thing they said when I asked why they eliminated Full Floater from the 2020 Fuel EX : That the newest generation of shocks (like Fox‘s Float X ) make those proprietary technologies redundant.

The benefit to the rider is the new Fuel EX uses a standard trunnion mounted shock, which means they can choose to ride a wide variety of options. Trek says they’ve confirmed fitment of all Fox, RockShox, and DVO air and coil shocks. Plus, it fits the Push ElevenSix and EXT’s Storia coil.

Trek Fuel EX—Updated Geometry, More Adjustments, Mullet Compatible

As previously mentioned, the Fuel EX receives all-new geometry. And it gets expanded geometry adjustment options. There are now two geometry adjustments: Head tube angle cups (three options: zero, plus-one degree, minus-one degree), and Mino Link (two positions: alters head and seat angles +/- 0.5 degrees and bb height +/- 8mm). That results in six configurations in total.

There are seven frame sizes (extra small, small, medium, medium/large, large, extra-large, and double-extra-large) in aluminum and six in carbon (no double-extra-large). And the EX now has size-specific chain stay lengths and seat tube angles. And the extra small and small come with 27.5-inch wheels, while the rest come with 29-inch wheels (size small is available with either 29" or 27.5" wheels.) AND Trek made the EX (with 29" wheels) compatible with mixed wheel sizes, but when running a 27.5 rear wheel, Trek recommends 160mm fork travel (10mm more than stock) and putting the Mino Link in high mode.

Is it any wonder that Trek has a dynamic geometry tool on its website to help you parse all the different configurations?

All this makes comparing the geometry to the previous EX difficult, but to get a flavor of the changes, I’ll compare the old size large to a new size large. With both in “stock” geometry configuration (Mino Link in low for both, the new frame with the neutral headset cup), the new bike measures up as follows:

Reach - 15mm longer (485 vs. 470mm) Stack - about eight millimeters taller (621.3 vs. 613mm) Effective seat angle - 2.5 degrees steeper (77.2 vs. 75 degrees) Head angle - 1.5 degrees slacker (64.5 vs. 66 degrees) Trail - almost 10mm longer (129.3 vs. 119mm) Chainstays - three millimeters longer (440 vs. 437mm) Wheelbase - almost 40 millimeters longer (1250.2 vs. 1211mm)

I’m not going to bother pasting the nine different geometry charts Trek sent me into this story (because that would be ridiculous.) The stock head angle is 64.5 degrees: If you want to nerd out on the rest of the numbers, dial-up Trek’s geometry tool and dig in.

Trek Fuel EX—Ride Review

The biggest mistake I made during my first rides on the new EX was comparing it to the outgoing 130/140mm EX. I loved the previous generation , and I liked its somewhat unique positioning between 120mm trail bikes like Evil’s Following and bigger trail bikes like the Pivot Switchblade.

But the new EX is not the old EX: It’s a bigger and more capable bike. It can be ridden harder and in rowdier terrain. But because it is heavier, longer, slacker, and has more travel, the new bike doesn’t feel as snappy as the outgoing bike. And it doesn’t feel as crisp on the climbs either. If you’re looking for a trail bike more like the old EX, the closest you’ll get in Trek’s current line is a Top Fuel with a 130mm fork upgrade.

Once I got my head straight about what the EX was all about, I began to groove with it. The Fuel EX is an excellent trail bike. Well, I have one complaint. I was getting some noise from the front end. I solved this by pulling the entire headset assembly, cleaning, greasing, and reinstalling it—chuckling to myself the whole time because Trek’s product team said they designed the system the way they did because they found competitors' adjustable head angle systems were noisy.

With six possible geometry settings—nine if I fitted a 27.5 rear wheel, which I, so far, have not—there wasn’t time to evaluate them all adequately before today’s launch. So, I’ve done all my rides on the EX in the stock setting (Mino Link in low, headset in the neutral position). And in that setting, the EX is a well-rounded trail bike.

I did my first ride on the EX in Whistler, British Columbia where I ground up the steep climbs and then pointed down tight, rough, and frequently very steep and technical trails that dot the landscape. The EX held its own, offering a comfortable climbing position and an efficient and supportive pedaling platform on the climbs. On the descents, it was reassuring; equal parts precise and confidence-inspiring. I decided to run the shock rate in the progressive position for this ride and was happy I did as the rear end returned suppleness with plenty of support and bottom-out resistance.

I expect some riders will find the EX, even with its new and more muscular body, is not quite enough bike for Whistler-style riding, which I can understand. But it can hold its own while the old EX would be out of its element.

I got the rest of my rides on the new EX in Durango, Colorado. Compared to B.C. riding, the climbs in Durango typically aren’t as steep, and the descents are faster, more open, and not as consistently technical, but the altitude is much higher. The EX felt a bit more in its sweet spot here, and I used the less progressive shock rate, which gave me a deeper-feeling suspension. With the lightest EX coming in at over 30 pounds, I’m not going to say I’m thrilled to hammer out a multi-hour singletrack climb at five-figure altitudes on this bike. It is efficient and accurate enough on climbs that I will ride it up because the payoff on the descents is so worthwhile.

I can’t say that I found any one thing, or things, in my testing of the EX so far that rocked my world. It seems to do everything it is supposed to do well. It’s appropriately stiff and feels solid, the suspension works well over a wide range of situations, and the pedaling and braking performance is good also. Performance-wise, it seems to be in the same ballpark as the other good trail bikes of similar travel I’ve ridden.

But I think this EX will be a slow burn. A bike I enjoy more and more as I spend additional time on it. I have no science to back that feeling up, just a gut sensation based on years and years of testing bikes. I have experienced other bikes sneak up on me and become a favorite after being lukewarm about them at first. And I do love how much Trek built into this bike: There’s a ton going on with it when you dig into the details, and much of it will help riders dial in the bike better for their conditions and preferences. In the long run, this should make the new EX easier with which to live.

Sometimes it’s the quiet ones that are the most special.

A gear editor for his entire career, Matt’s journey to becoming a leading cycling tech journalist started in 1995, and he’s been at it ever since; likely riding more cycling equipment than anyone on the planet along the way. Previous to his time with Bicycling , Matt worked in bike shops as a service manager, mechanic, and sales person. Based in Durango, Colorado, he enjoys riding and testing any and all kinds of bikes, so you’re just as likely to see him on a road bike dressed in Lycra at a Tuesday night worlds ride as you are to find him dressed in a full face helmet and pads riding a bike park on an enduro bike. He doesn’t race often, but he’s game for anything; having entered road races, criteriums, trials competitions, dual slalom, downhill races, enduros, stage races, short track, time trials, and gran fondos. Next up on his to-do list: a multi day bikepacking trip, and an e-bike race. 

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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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First Ride - Trek's All-New 2023 Fuel EX 11

Riding a new trail blind on a bike you've never touched let's find out what confidence really means..

I t has been a decade since Trek first released the Fuel EX. Mountain biking as a sport has changed quite a lot over those years, as has the Fuel EX. On this, the ten-year anniversary, Trek has released an all-new Fuel EX that is a dramatic change from the prior iteration. There's a new frame design, revised geometry, frame storage, and a host of adjustments that can make the Fuel EX morph into any kind of trail bike you want. There's a lot to unpack here, let's not waste time.

• OCLV carbon and alloy frame options
• 29-inch wheels (XS is 27.5 only, small is available in 27.5 or 29)
• Mixed-wheel compatible with Mino link and 160mm fork
• 140mm (5.5-inches) of rear wheel travel // 150mm (5.9-inches) fork travel
• ABP suspension design
• Tapered headtube with adjustable headset cups
• Guided, internal cable routing
• In-frame storage with BITS bag
• BITS tool in the headtube
• Adjustable suspension leverage chip
• Full downtube protection
• Size-specific chainstays
• Threaded bottom bracket with ISCG05 mounts
• Boost 148 rear spacing with 12mm through axle
• MSRP $10,749 USD (As tested)

When Trek launches a new bike there tend to be more leaks than a sunk boat. Down to its prominent display in Brandon Semenuk and Kade Edwards' Parallel 2 video , the new Fuel EX is a surprise to few. Regardless, the new frame lines and design are indicative of an entirely new platform. Trek is offering the Fuel EX as a complete line with a broad selection of build kits and price points.

Trek went all in with the geometry updates here. Yes, the longer, slacker, steeper trend is there but certainly, that is a good thing and though the changes are pretty big, the Fuel EX isn't outlandish by any stretch of the imagination. Depending on the size, the Fuel EX has grown by 20mm in reach. The head angle comes out of the box 1.5-degrees slacker (and can go slacker still) and the seat angle steepens by 2 degrees.

The Fuel EX ships with the Mino link in the low position, giving it a 64.5-degree head angle. Going to high will steepen that to 65 degrees. Trek is offering an aftermarket headset insert that will allow riders to alter the head angle by plus or minus 1 degree, meaning riders could go as slack as 63.5 degrees but then bump it up to 64 degrees with the Mino in the high position (slack with more pedal clearance). Trek has a geometry tool on the Fuel EX page to help riders discover all of the possible adjustments and scenarios.

Additionally, there is a flip chip at the lower shock mount. In stock form, the chip comes in a more neutral progression setting, ideal for air shocks and an overall more supple feel. Flip the link to a more progressive setting and the Fuel EX takes on a more aggressive leverage curve and becomes coil compatible.

In all, there are seven new Fuel EX builds along with both carbon and alloy frameset options. The two alloy builds use Trek's Alpha Platinum aluminum and does have in-frame storage. The five carbon builds are Trek's OCLV and also have in-frame storage.

Both alloy builds, EX 7 ($3,699) and EX 8 (4,299), use Shimano 12-speed drivetrains and Shimano 4-piston brakes. The EX7 runs a RockShox 35 Gold RL fork and FOX Performance Float Evol shock while the 8 gets a bump to the FOX Rhythm 36 and FOX Performance Float X. While the EX 8 may not be the higher-end aluminum build that many riders shout out for, the parts blend is solid without being flashy.

Trek delineates its carbon offerings by the 9 designations, with builds starting at 9.7 and moving up to 9.9. The Fuel EX 9.7 (4,699) is a blend of parts from both the 7 and 8. Riders get the nicer suspension from the 8 but the drivetrain from the 7. For those wanting to dip into carbon waters, this is a good place. The suspension is great and the drivetrain is rock solid, albeit a bit weighty.

The EX 9.8 GX AXS ($7,699) build tells you the drivetrain already. The fork bumps a little to the FOX Performance 36 and the Float X stays on. Riders do get the bump to Bontrager's Line Elite carbon hoops. Robots aren't cheap and we're guessing Trek went with the SRAM Code R brakes to save a little coin. We'd choose derailleur cables over Code Rs but riders can make that choice for themselves.

Next is the 9.8 XT ($6,249). Every part from the 9.8 GX AXS carries over except the obvious drivetrain and brake swap to Shimano's XT group.

Lastly are the EX 9.9 XX1 AXS ($10,749) and XTR ($9,749) builds. As one would expect, everything is top-notch. FOX Factory suspension, Line Pro carbon wheels, RSL carbon bar/stem combo; it's all there. The XX1 AXS has said drivetrain and Code RSC brakes while the XTR build has the appropriately matched Shimano drivetrain and brakes.

On The Trail

It isn't often if ever, that one says a mountain bike looks just like an e-bike, but that is exactly the case with the new Fuel EX. When we attended the online launch, we had to chuckle as the Fuel EX looks just like the Fuel EXe we had recently tested . In picking up our test bikes in Whistler, we were nervous that onlookers may accuse us of riding an e-bike on an unsanctioned trail. Our uphill pace probably put us well in the safe zone.

Our two Vital staffers grabbed a medium and extra-large Fuel EX 9.9 XX1 AXS for a little jaunt on Lord of the Squirrels. This is a popular trail in the area, and we were in luck as it had just opened the day before. In all, our ride would carry us over 20 miles with 4,000 feet of climbing. As we laid out our plan to Trek, they replied that it was the perfect ride for the Fuel EX.

Our bikes were shiny and new, with brakes that were not even bedded. Fortunately, Trek did have the time to chop down the bars for our medium test bike. We set our FOX Float X shocks to 30% sag and lead with the PSI chart on the FOX 36 forks, putting in the recommended amount of air. After that, we boldly went off on our ride. Vital would normally not recommend such a ride without some shakedown, but it was Crankworx, baby! #sendit

Our given route for this ride had us start off on a paved climb, nothing too steep. From there, we were to head into something I like to call Face Punch Alley. After that, things were pleasant for some miles, and the "meander in the woods" stigma around this ride set in. At some point, near a lookout deck, the trail made a right turn and went up. The going up did not stop for many miles. Somewhere along the line one of us broke and determined this climb was really damn hard. The other person rode his XL bike swiftly up the mountain, further demolishing my spirits. At least the flies and mosquitos were really bad.

Right out of the gate on the paved portion, the Fuel EX proved itself a happy climber. Our two-man crew breezed along in an efficient and comfortable manner. We'll tip our cap to the Fuel EX for being a rather natural feeling ride. Once thrown into the more technical and looser bits of the climb, the EX held its own. Considering the circumstances, there were a number of occasions we were thankful to be on this particular bike.

There are plenty of sections of the climb that are smooth and we did goof around with the climb switch, particularly in the hurt locker. It wasn't so much that the bike needed it but we wanted that emotional gain. Despite having a load of hydration on our back, the Fuel EX didn't get too light on the steeper bits.

DH/Technical Performance/Fun Factor

After far too much climbing and several snow fields, we reached the top of our ride. Our team received some brownie-to-mouth resuscitation and broke out the camera for beauty shots to let the sugar sink in.

During the initial part of our descent, we felt the Fuel EX was a little too glued to the ground. There's definitely a time and place for this sort of character but based on what we were taking in with the trail, we wanted more pop. After some adjustments to the suspension, we were off again. Then we pulled over again and tweaked some more. The third time was the charm and we were off to the races.

Knowing that the bike is not defined by a single character is pretty fantastic.

We'll say that it speaks well of both Trek and FOX to have such an adjustable nature. Knowing that the bike is not defined by a single character is pretty fantastic. While we will loudly add the disclaimer that neither of us had ever been on this bike and one of us was riding blind, our nerves were calm aboard the Fuel EX.

There are a number of blind rollers and punts on the downhill and after plowing through a few of them, both the trail and the bike became very predictable. Letting the bike off the leash revealed a glorious ride. We were really impressed with the Fuel EX and still had miles of trail to go.

Rear Suspension Performance

FOX's Float DPX was one of our favorite shocks. We often called it the little shock that could. The new Float X is all that and more. For being a parking lot tune with a trail-side adjustment, we could not have been happier with its ability to tame miles of roots and rocks. Lord of the Squirrels is not the heaviest trail around but it is long and there are plenty of bumps. From slabs to roots and square edge hits; both the Float X and Trek's ABP handled it masterfully.

Where did the suspension excel?

There are tons of small to mid-sized impacts on the downhill. The FOX suspension smoothed it all out, and we were genuinely impressed with the moments of magic-carpet feel. Were it not for our gloveless hands' disagreement with the Bontrager grips, we would have felt fresh as a daisy.

We used the full travel on our test bikes but felt well supported when fluttering through higher-speed rough sections. Additionally, the Fuel EX was well-balanced front and rear, letting us set up properly for a variety of sections.

Unique Features  

In-frame storage is becoming less unique but we always appreciate having it. Additionally, the Bontrager tool in our steerer was quite handy for trail-side adjustments. We're eager to get our long-term test bike and play around with all of the adjustments on the Fuel EX. The Bontrager RSL one-piece bar and stem is unique , though time will tell if it is a feature.

When Trek told us we had outlined the perfect ride for the Fuel EX, they weren't kidding. In its stock form, this is as clear a representation of a trail bike as one can get. Mountain bikers that do big climbs with long descents will love the Fuel EX line. We have to imagine that even more can be squeezed out of this bike with a longer fork, slacker head angle, mixed-wheel setup, coil shock, and what-have-you. Riders can tweak their little hearts out. Regardless, out of the box, this might be our favorite Trek we've ridden to date.

Perceived Weight

We wouldn't characterize the Fuel EX as a featherweight. To be fair, it is not marketed as such but we had hopes that with all those light, high-end parts, it would feel as such. Regardless, the bike never felt piggish and conversely, it was soundly planted in the rough stuff.

Our medium tester spun his 30-inch legs as fast as he could to keep pace with Captain Climb, and the Fuel EX obliged as best it could. Bursts of power out of corners resulted in immediate acceleration. In short, the Fuel EX is an efficient machine.

It's 2022 (or 2023 according to most bike brands). If a brand's top-shelf superbike makes noise on the trail they should turn off the lights and quit. Of course, the 9.9 XX1 AXS was quiet. All we heard was the scurry of rocks beneath us punctuated by moments of uncontrollable laughter.

If Trek is buying, we'll take the XX1 AXS build kit but that isn't how things work. If it were our money and the Fuel EX line was laid before us, we'd give the nod to the 8, 9.7, or even the 9.8 XT if we were feeling fancy. All of these platforms will get you comparable performance and money left over to stuff that downtube full of taquitos.

Long-term Durability

Vital has taken in a lot of Trek bikes for long-term reviews over the past four years and never had much of an issue. When we look over the Fuel EX, we see increased levels of frame protection and much of the same, nicely finished build qualities we've come to expect from Trek. Whenever there are more things to adjust (leverage rate chip, headset cups) there will always be an increase in the likelihood of creaks. We cannot speak directly to those on this bike, but it is out there.

...the new Trek Fuel EX is a damn fine trail bike right out of the box, no matter your riding style.

What's The Bottom Line?

Vital sent two testers out on the Fuel EX. One of them punished himself for too many hours editing bike reviews, the other guy took off up the hill. If it means anything, those roles were reversed on the descent. In the end both riders made it back to the truck with giant smiles on their faces. Ultimately, it was concluded that the new Trek Fuel EX is a damn fine trail bike right out of the box, no matter your riding style. 

Look for the long-term review coming later. For now, head to TrekBikes.com for more details.

View key specs, compare bikes, and rate the new Trek Fuel EX in the Vital MTB Product Guide.

2023 Trek Fuel EX FAQ’s

What's new about the frame?

• An aggressive, forward-leaning visual redesign
• More travel: 150mm front/140mm rear
• Size-specific chainstay lengths
• Threaded bottom bracket
• Adjustable geometry via Mino Link and aftermarket angled headset cups
• Adjustable suspension progression provides more support for coil shocks or extra-aggressive riders looking for more bottom-out resistance
• A 34.9mm seat tube for fitting burlier, more reliable dropper posts
• Guided internal cable/hose routing for simplified maintenance and less noise
• A full-length dual-density downtube guard for protection from debris and during shuttle runs
• Alloy models now get internal downtube storage!

Do any frame sizes feature curved top tubes for lower standover?

Can XS and S bikes with 27.5” wheels run a 29” front wheel?

No, there’s not enough fork clearance.

In which Mino Link position does the bike ship?

Low/slack (64.5 degrees)

What happens if I flip the Mino Link position to High?

You’ll get a half degree steeper head angle (65 degrees) for quicker handling and an 8mm higher bottom bracket for more ground clearance.

How does the adjustable headset work?

You can swap out your headset cups to get a full degree of head angle adjustment without affecting any other measurements. The bikes come stock with the zero degree cups, but SKU W5295319 (sizes XS-L) or W5295274 (sizes XL-XXL) gets you the angled upper cup and SKU W5294449 (all sizes) gets you the angled lower cup.

The upper cup is a drop-in part, but the lower cup needs to be pressed in with a standard shop headset press. The cups have notches and laser-engraved guides to help you install them straight. For more detailed installation instructions, watch the Fuel EX service video on Trek U.

Install the angled cups in the indicated slack position to get a 63.5 degree head angle for more stability, or rotate 180 degrees to get a steeper 65.5 degree head angle for quicker handling.

You can install the headset cups in the slack position and use the Mino high setting to maintain BB height and avoid pedal strikes, all while keeping a 64 degree head tube angle. Need even higher and steeper? Use the Mino high setting and the steep head tube cup setting for a 66 degree head tube angle.

Are all sizes compatible with a water bottle?

Do all frame sizes use the same wheel size?

• XS: 27.5-only
• S: 27.5 or 29
• M and up: 29

What is the maximum tire size?

Frame clearance for 2.5” wide tires on both 27.5 and 29 models.

Is it compatible with other wheel/tire sizes?

Yes – this bike is mullet compatible. Riders can run a 27.5 rear wheel for better bike-to-body clearance and more agile handling. To keep the bottom bracket height reasonable and avoid pedal strikes, we recommend a 160mm fork and running the Mino Link in the High (65 degrees) position.

Are these bikes tubeless compatible? What additional parts are required?

Fuel EX 7 and up come with everything you need to set the wheels up tubeless out of the box. No additional parts required. Fuel EX 5 comes with tubeless ready rims and rim strips, but no valves, sealant, or tubeless ready tires.

What is the maximum fork axle-to-crown and travel?

See charts below. Approved for the longer Fox 38 /Rock Shox ZEB 160mm.

How much dropper post insertion does the frame have?

Does it have any accessory mounts (kickstand, racks, fenders, lights)?

Fuel EX 9.8 and 9.9 come with a Blendr-compatible bar/stem. Otherwise, Fuel EX is a purpose-built trail bike and doesn’t have mounts for a kickstand, racks, or fenders.

What is the maximum chainring size? Minimum chainring size?

Max: 34T round, 32T oval; Min: 28T

What is the chain line?

What is the crank interface?

BSA 73mm, threaded

Does it have ISCG mounts?

ISCG-05, 3-bolt

Which version of Knock Block does it use?

No Knock Block here.

What is the rear brake mount? What is the max rotor size?

180mm direct post mount (203mm max)

Which aftermarket shocks are compatible?

We know that the following shocks will fit. Other shocks may fit, as there is generous clearance, but should be checked for frame clearance at full suspension compression.

• All FOX, air and coil
• All RockShox, air and coil
• o Flight Attendant fits all sizes, but with no bottle clearance on sizes XS, S 27.5, and S 29. - DVO, air and coil
• PUSH shocks
• o No bottle clearance on sizes XS, S 27.5, S 29.
• EXT Storia coil

What size hardware is needed for aftermarket shocks?

Fuel EX takes a 185mm x 55mm shock with an industry standard 54mm x 10mm upper Trunnion and 40mm x 8mm lower standard pin mount. Fox and RockShox lower eyelet hardware in the 40mm x 8mm size are available on B2B.

Are there different sizes chainstays for size-specific stays?

Size-specific chainstay lengths are achieved by altering the main frame, not the chainstay. This means replacement chainstays are the same for all frame sizes (for a given wheel size).

Will the alloy stays work on carbon frames and vice versa?

Will there be painted replacements for paint-matched storage doors?

Yes, replacements can be found in each model’s Trekbikes.com page under Bike Tech. Note that the entry-level models get a black storage door.

Will it be available in Project One?

View replies to: First Ride - Trek's All-New 2023 Fuel EX

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

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

Height: 180cm

Weight: 69kg

• Guy Kesteven Technical-Editor-at-Large

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2023 Trek Fuel EXe Review | This brand new lightweight e-MTB is the stealthiest we’ve ever tested

The not-so-minor details.

Trek Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS

https://www.trekbikes.com

$13,999 USD

- The near-silent motor performance - Solid chassis with excellent weight distribution - Great geometry and all-round handling - Supportive suspension offers exceptional control at speed - Sleek frame is low on e-bulk - The 9.8 model is surprisingly well priced

- Highly damped RockShox suspension isn't the plushest - TQ motor can lag - Not as light as some of its competitors - Rear axle lever makes noise while riding - Crankset Q-Factor is very wide

Mick & Wil review the Trek Fuel EXe

Following two years of development, the Trek Fuel EXe launches as a brand new electric mountain bike for 2023. Aiming to straddle the gap between the Rail (Trek’s full-powered, big travel e-MTB) and the regular Fuel EX, the Fuel EXe is built around a unique, never-before-seen motor that is claimed to be one of the quietest and lightest on the market. Along with its slim battery and carbon frame, the Fuel EXe is purported to weigh around 18kg in its lightest configuration, which is a good 5kg lighter than the Rail. That puts it into direct competition with the Specialized Levo SL and Orbea Rise ; two bikes that have had a significant head start in the lightweight e-MTB category. So what exactly does the new Trek Fuel EXe bring to the party? And how does its new motor perform on the trail? We’ve been testing it for the past few weeks to find out!

Watch our Trek Fuel EXe review here:

Overall it’s a very clean system, and combined with the compact motor and slim downtube, the Fuel EXe does a remarkable job of not looking like an e-MTB.

An overview of the Trek Fuel EXe

Whereas the Rail is based upon the Slash enduro bike, the Trek Fuel EXe is essentially an electrified version of the Fuel EX trail bike. It features 29in wheels, though it gets a touch more travel with a 150mm fork and 140mm of rear wheel travel courtesy of the ABP four-bar suspension platform.

OCLV Mountain carbon fibre has been employed to construct the Fuel EXe frame, while a two-piece alloy rocker link drives the rear shock via a trunnion bearing mount. Unlike the regular Fuel EX, Rail and Slash that feature Trek’s proprietary Thru Shaft damper, the Fuel EXe relies on a conventional rear shock.

The compact TQ motor

Powering the Trek Fuel EXe is a brand new and extremely compact motor that has been developed in collaboration with Bavarian company TQ.

TQ has previously been known for producing the 120Nm monster motor found within the Haibike Flyon. Taking the same patented Harmonic Pin-Ring (HPR) mechanism, those clever Germans have shrunken it right down to create what it believes is the lightest and smallest e-MTB motor on the market.

Comprised of just two moving parts, the HPR drive unit doesn’t require a belt or additional cogs, and it spins at an RPM that is three times lower than a conventional motor. Thanks to its simplified construction, the HPR design is claimed to result in fewer operating frequencies, reducing not only the overall decibels produced by the motor, but also lowering the ‘tonality’ (read: annoyance) of the sound.

Despite its compact form, the German-manufactured HPR50 motor delivers a healthy 50Nm of torque and a peak power output of 300W. TQ claims this motor has the highest torque density on the market, while offering seamless power delivery with virtually no lag.

It’s bloody light too

According to TQ, the HPR50 motor weighs just 1.85kg. That’s lighter than Specialized’s SL 1.1 motor (1.95kg), Fazua’s Ride 60 motor (2.3kg), Shimano’s EP8 (2.6kg) and Bosch’s Performance CX (2.79kg).

To make the most of its weight advantage, the HPR50 motor is paired to a modest 360Wh battery. This is claimed to weigh 1.83kg, which is notably lighter than the 360Wh battery used in the Orbea Rise (2.2kg), and about the same weight as the Specialized Levo SL’s smaller 320Wh battery (1.8kg). The compact battery allows the downtube to be made much slimmer, which results in further weight savings.

Putting the motor and battery together, here’s how the total system weight compares between the new Fuel EXe and its two main competitors;

• Trek Fuel EXe (50Nm motor & 360Wh battery) – 3.68kg 
• Specialized Levo SL (35Nm motor & 320Wh battery) – 3.75kg
• Orbea Rise (60Nm motor & 360Wh battery) – 4.8kg

Unlike the Levo SL and the Rise, the Fuel EXe’s battery can be easily removed from the frame without having to drop out the motor. This means you can charge it in the bike, or separately if you don’t have a power point in your shed. Trek claims you can fully charge the battery in just two hours with a fast charger.

Trek will also be offering a 160Wh Range Extender battery that customers can purchase separately for $1,199 AUD. Boosting range by a claimed 40%, the piggyback battery is designed to fit into a standard water bottle cage with the addition of a built-in retention strap for security. Unfortunately the Range Extender battery won’t be available in Australia until late 2022 however.

Tidy, integrated display

Just like the Specialized Levo and Rocky Mountain Altitude Powerplay , the Trek Fuel EXe features a display that’s integrated directly into the top tube. This 2in O-LED screen forms the control hub for the bike, with a single button that turns the system on and off. This same button is then used to cycle through four pages that display key metrics including battery status, riding speed, average speed, rider power, motor power, and estimated range. Because of its integrated display, the Fuel EXe doesn’t have room for the Knock Block steering limiter, and so omits it entirely.

A discreet two button controller sits next to the left-hand grip, allowing you to toggle between the Eco, Mid and High assist settings. Holding the top button also engages the Walk mode, which delivers power to the rear wheel when you’re off the bike and pushing uphill.

Bluetooth and ANT+ capability allows the TQ system to pair with your GPS head unit and mobile phone. Further functions can be unlocked via the Trek Central app, which offers navigation and integration with third party apps. You can use the app to tune the motor’s assistance levels, and it’ll also provide you with tyre and suspension pressure recommendations if you’re using a TireWiz and AirWiz.

Geometry & mullet capability

Without a bulky motor getting in the way, there are few compromises forced upon the suspension layout and geometry of the Trek Fuel EXe. For example, the chainstay length sits at an impressive 440mm, which is quite short given the 29in rear wheel and 2.5in tyre clearance. Trek has also chosen to stick with conventional Boost hub spacing and a 55mm chainline, so there’s nothing funky in terms of standards.

With the Mino Link flip chip set in the Low position, the Fuel EXe features a 64.7° head angle, a 76.7° seat angle and a 38.5mm BB drop. In the High position those angles steepen by 0.5° and the BB lifts by almost 7mm.

In that same High setting, Trek also states that the Fuel EXe can be run as a mullet with a 27.5in rear wheel. This will affect the motor’s output and 25km/h cutoff point however, as there’s currently no way for users to adjust the rear wheel circumference in the TQ system.

Trek Fuel EXe price & specs

Globally, there will be six Trek Fuel EXe models offered for 2023. Only three of those models will be available in Australia, with prices starting at $9,499 AUD for the Fuel EXe 9.5, and maxing out at $12,999 AUD for the Fuel EXe 9.8 XT.

All Fuel EXe models make use of the same TQ-HPR50 motor, 360Wh battery and OCLV carbon frame. There will be no alloy models for the foreseeable future.

The bike we’ve been testing is the top-end Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS, which in the States will come with a staggering retail price of $13,999 USD (that’s approximately $20,000 AUD!). It features RockShox Ultimate-level suspension, Bontrager Line Pro carbon wheels, a one-piece RSL carbon bar and stem, a SRAM XX1 AXS drivetrain, Code RSC brakes and a Reverb AXS dropper post. While this model won’t be available in Australia, aside from the wireless bits the spec isn’t drastically different from the 9.8 XT. As usual though, our review won’t be focussing a whole lot on the individual components, but rather the important stuff that’s shared throughout the range; the frame, handling, suspension and drive system.

2023 Trek Fuel EXe 9.8 XT

• Frame | OCLV Mountain Carbon Fibre, ABP Suspension Design, 140mm Travel
• Fork | RockShox Lyrik Select+, Charger 3 Damper, 44mm Offset, 150mm Travel
• Shock | RockShox Super Deluxe Select+, RT Damper, 205x60mm
• Drive Unit | TQ-HPR50, 50Nm Peak Torque
• Battery | TQ 360Wh
• Wheels | Bontrager Line Elite 30, OCLV Carbon Rims, 29mm Inner Width
• Tyres | Bontrager SE5 Team Issue 2.5in Front & Rear
• Drivetrain | Shimano XT 1×12 w/e*thirteen E*spec Race Carbon 34T Crankset & 10-51T Cassette
• Brakes | Shimano XT 4-Piston
• Bar |  Bontrager RSL Integrated, OCLV Carbon, 27.5mm Rise, 820mm Width
• Stem | Bontrager RSL Integrated, OCLV Carbon, 45mm Length
• Seatpost | Bontrager Line Elite, 34.9mm Diameter, Travel: 100mm (S), 150mm (M), 170mm (L), 200mm (XL)
• Saddle | Bontrager Arvada, Austentite Rails
• Claimed Weight | 18.1kg
• RRP | $12,999 AUD

2023 Trek Fuel EXe 9.7

• Fork | Fox Rhythm 36, GRIP Damper, 44mm Offset, 150mm Travel
• Shock | Fox Float X, Performance Series, 2-Position Damper, 205x60mm
• Wheels | Bontrager Line Comp 30, Alloy Rims, 29mm Inner Width
• Tyres | Bontrager XR5 Team Issue 2.5in Front & Rear
• Drivetrain | Shimano SLX 1×12 w/e*thirteen E*spec Race Alloy 34T Crankset & 10-51T Cassette
• Brakes | Shimano Deore 4-Piston
• Bar | Bontrager Line, Alloy, 27.5mm Rise, 780mm Width
• Stem | Bontrager Elite, 45mm Length
• Seatpost | TranzX Dropper, 34.9mm Diameter, Travel: 100mm (S), 150mm (M), 170mm (L-XL)
• Claimed Weight | 19.05kg
• RRP | $10,999 AUD

2023 Trek Fuel EXe 9.5

• Fork | RockShox 35 Gold RL, Motion Control Damper, 44mm Offset, 150mm Travel
• Shock | RockShox Deluxe Select+, RT Damper, 205x60mm
• Wheels | Bontrager Sealed Bearing Hubs & Alex MD35 Alloy Rims, 34mm Inner Width
• Drivetrain | Shimano Deore 1×12 w/e*thirteen E*spec Plus 34T Crankset & 10-51T Cassette
• Brakes | Shimano MT420 4-Piston
• Bar | Bontrager Rhythm Comp, Alloy, 15mm Rise, 750mm Width
• Stem | Bontrager Alloy, 50mm Length
• Claimed Weight | 19.93kg
• RRP | $9,499 AUD

Noise isn’t everything, but geez it’s nice when you’re on a quiet bike. And in this regard, the Fuel EXe sets a whole new benchmark that we expect other brands will attempt to follow over the coming few years.

Trek Fuel EXe sizing & fit

Deviating from the regular Fuel EX, which comes in six sizes, the Trek Fuel EXe will only be available in four. To suit our 175-178cm testers we chose the Medium, which features a 452mm reach.

We had few complaints with sizing, though the stock handlebars are comically wide at 820mm. Those were promptly chopped down to a more conventional 780mm width, which proved to be a better fit with the 45mm ‘virtual’ stem length.

While the big diameter seat tube is nice and short, the 150mm dropper post limited our freedom of movement when riding down steep descents and along jump trails. We’d prefer to see a 170-180mm dropper on a bike that’s as capable as this.

Otherwise the Fuel EXe cockpit is a comfortable place to be thanks to the agreeable Bontrager saddle and lock-on grips. The seat tube angle isn’t too steep, with neutral weight distribution that doesn’t put a load of pressure on your hands. There’s plenty of adjustability thanks to the long saddle rails for those who do want to shunt it forward for a more aggressive climbing position.

Where the Fuel EXe definitely feels like an e-MTB is in its Q-Factor. Although the TQ-HPR50 motor is very compact, the fat e*13 carbon crank arms see the pedalling width blow out considerably. We measured the Q-Factor at 195mm, which is wider than any other e-MTB we’ve tested, and around 20mm wider than a regular mountain bike. Many riders will be unfazed by the difference, and indeed the wider stance can improve your overall stability on the bike. However, flat pedal riders will need to be wary when riding through deep ruts, and those with sensitive knees may simply find the Q-Factor to be too wide for comfort.

Suspension setup

The rear shock on the Trek Fuel EXe is designed to be run with 30% sag, a process that’s made easy thanks to the anodised gradients on the RockShox Super Deluxe.

Jose Gonzalez of Trek’s Suspension Lab explained to us that the Fuel EXe does have a slightly lower leverage rate compared to the regular Fuel EX, and the rear shock has been valved with a medium compression tune. The aim here is to provide more support to handle the additional weight of the battery and motor. Because of the greater damping forces generated by the shock, we trended towards having the compression adjusters backed off from the neutral setting. High-speed was set at minus two clicks (fully open) and the low-speed dial was set at minus one click. Rebound was set a couple of clicks faster than halfway to suit our 68-75kg testers.

Up front is the new 2023 RockShox Lyrik that features the new DebonAir+ spring and Charger 3 damper. RockShox recommends an extra 10psi for this fork when it’s fitted to an e-MTB, but we found this pressure to be too high when paired with the highly supportive Charger 3 damper. We ended up running 10psi less than recommended on the chart, set the rebound on the faster side, ran the high-speed compression at minus one click, and set the low-speed adjuster a few clicks lighter than neutral.

Trek Fuel EXe weight

Confirmed weight for our Trek Fuel EXe XX1 AXS test bike is 18.6kg, weighed without pedals and with the tyres set up tubeless.

That’s an impressive weight for a full suspension e-MTB, especially when you factor in the aggressive Bontrager tyres, powerful brakes and piggyback shock. Still, it’s not quite as light as some of its competitors;

• Specialized Levo SL Expert – 17.84kg
• Orbea Rise M10 – 18.38kg
• Trek Fuel EXe XX1 AXS – 18.6kg
• Specialized Kenevo SL Expert – 19.12kg

When you consider that the Fuel EXe is the only bike in that list with carbon wheels and crank arms, as well as a one-piece cockpit, its weight becomes a little less impressive. Given that the Fuel EXe supposedly has the lightest drive system out of the lot, we suspect some of the additional weight is found in the frame itself. That’s no bad thing, especially if it equates to having a stiffer and more robust chassis.

What does the Trek Fuel EXe do well?

When riding the Trek Fuel EXe the first thing you notice, or more accurately don’t notice, is just how quiet the TQ-HPR50 motor is. No doubt about it, this is easily the quietest e-MTB we’ve ever ridden.

The overall decibel output is low, and the motor’s pitch is significantly less prominent than other motors we’ve ridden. Rather than droning or whining, the TQ-HPR50 motor emits a more discreet sound that’s a bit like a gentle breeze whistling through the trees. Furthermore, there’s no annoying clacking noise on the descents like you’ll find with the latest Shimano and Bosch drive units. The TQ motor does feature an integrated freewheel that allows the drive wheel to disengage from the cranks to minimise drag, but despite this we couldn’t detect any obvious noise when descending on rocky trails.

Indeed the motor and chassis are well damped, with very little vibration or rattling present. While riding back-to-back with our Canyon Spectral:ON test bike, which features a cavernous downtube and a Shimano EP8 motor, the difference in trail noise was stark. Noise isn’t everything, but geez it’s nice when you’re on a quiet bike. And in this regard, the Fuel EXe sets a whole new benchmark that we expect other brands will attempt to follow over the coming few years.

Initially the muted motor gave the illusion of providing us with less assistance. This is because the power delivery is less obvious than a louder, whinier motor. However, a glance at our average riding speeds had us soon correcting that illusion.

Of course there’s not as much punch compared to the bigger 85-90Nm motors on the market, which is to be expected. During our standardised range test (more on that below), climbing speeds aboard the Fuel EXe hovered around 14km/h, compared to 18km/h on an EP8-equipped bike. This means you’ll be working harder on the Fuel EXe if all your pals are riding on full-powered e-MTBs.

Still, if you only ever ride singletrack aboard your e-MTB in the Eco or Trail assist settings, the TQ motor is likely to meet your needs. This will especially be the case for lighter and fitter riders, who will find the 50Nm output to be just about perfect for trail riding.

Well-damped suspension & no-fuss handling

It isn’t just the motor that’s quiet either, with the Trek Fuel EXe delivering a nicely damped ride quality that’s complemented by the distinct lack of any slurping noises from the fork’s new Charger 3 damper.

The carbon chassis feels stout and reliable, with no hint of twisting or excessive flex under load. It somehow manages to achieve this sensation without feeling harsh or pingy, and instead offers an accommodating platform that allows you to push it quite hard without fear of being punished for less calculated line choices.

The top-notch suspension plays into this beautifully when you’re smashing down rowdy descents. The Lyrik’s mid-stroke is particularly good, offering a heap of support with plenty of big hit damping control that encourages you to let off the brakes when gravity takes over.

While the suspension is good, it’s worth acknowledging that the Fuel EXe is not as plush as the Rail. Along with its lower overall weight, it can’t monster-truck down wide-open terrain like the Rail can.

The Fuel EXe takes the upper hand as the trail gets squigglier though, with less exaggeration required from your handling inputs. The smaller and shorter battery puts less weight up towards the head tube, helping to centralise and lower the bike’s centre of mass. Combined with the stout frame, there’s very little understeer present with the Fuel EXe. Compared to bigger and heavier e-MTBs, it never feels like it’s trying to push wide or ride away from you.

The excellent handling and weight distribution makes the Fuel EXe an easier bike to ride for less experienced riders. For more advanced pilots, the Fuel EXe delivers a thoroughly involving ride quality. Yes it’s still an 18kg bike, but it’s far more playful than the heavier Rail, with the shorter chainstays helping to encourage front wheel popping shenanigans.

It dips into corners without requiring constant persuasion, and it takes to the air well too, maintaining a steady trajectory without making you feel like you’re an unwilling passenger. There’s a heap of support from the suspension for soaking up ill-timed landings when things do go awry, with the shock’s Hydraulic Bottom Out ramping up the travel in the final 20% of the stroke. While the O-ring indicated we’d used full travel on many occasions, not once were we able to detect it while riding.

What does it struggle with?

Though the progressive RockShox suspension on the Trek Fuel EXe offers bucketloads of high-speed control, it does feel quite aggressively damped on smaller chatter. This is more so the case with the new Lyrik, which hasn’t amazed us with its small-bump compliance, transmitting more feedback through to our hands.

The fork on our test bike has improved noticeably over the first dozen rides as the seals and bushings have bedded in, and there’s no denying the incredible support and control that the Charger 3 damper brings. However, the Fuel EXe hasn’t exactly delivered a cloud-like ride quality, certainly not compared to the floaty Spectral:ON we’ve been testing alongside it. For this reason, we’d be curious to try out the Fuel EXe 9.7 to see whether its Fox suspension package brings about a more supple ride.

We’ll point out that heavier and more aggressive riders may not encounter the same experience as us. And it has to be said that the damping support does make the Fuel EXe a highly responsive and rewarding bike to ride. Still, those eager for the cushiest ride on the chunkiest of terrain will likely be better served by the Rail.

Overall we’ve been impressed by the usable and natural-feeling support from the TQ-HPR50 motor. It doesn’t spike or surge, offering a nicely progressive power band that makes it predictable and easy to modulate on tricky climbs. The 25km/h cutoff point is about as seamless it gets, and because the motor is so quiet, it’s difficult to tell when the motor has disengaged from the cranks.

It took us a few rides to get used to though, as it can occasionally lag before the power starts to come on. Spinning a lower gear at a slightly higher cadence seems to be its preferred input, though we’ve not found it to be as adept at responding to rapid changes in RPM compared to some other e-MTB motors.

There are options to tune the TQ motor via the Trek Central app, which allows you to tweak the pedal response, assist factor and the maximum power of each of the three settings. Unfortunately the app hasn’t been available prior to the Fuel EXe’s public launch, so we’re yet to play around with those tuning options. We’ll be exploring more of that functionality over the coming weeks of riding.

What range can you get with the Trek Fuel EXe?

Depending on the terrain, most of our rides on the Trek Fuel EXe have typically racked up 1,000-1,300m of elevation gain over a distance of 30-38km. We’ve mostly utilised the Mid power setting, which strikes a nice balance for general trail riding.

It’s been mighty helpful having the battery status displayed as a percentage, and the remaining ride time and range estimations have proven to be surprisingly accurate. When you do get down to the final 10% on the battery, the motor’s power output automatically lowers a few notches to help conserve what’s left. It doesn’t totally limp home though, retaining a usable level of support all the way down to 0%. When you have finally cooked the goose, the lack of drag through the TQ motor means it’s not an awful experience to ride the Fuel EXe on human power alone.

To see how the Fuel EXe’s efficiency compares directly to some of the other e-MTBs we’ve reviewed, we subjected it to our standardised range test. This involves the same rider pedalling up a road climb with a 10% average grade, with the motor set to its most powerful setting, before bombing back down a singletrack descent. The idea is to see how much elevation, and how many laps each bike can rack up on a single charge, while keeping the variables as constant as possible.

Here’s how the Fuel EXe faired in our range test;

• Norco Sight VLT (Shimano EP8, 900Wh Battery) – 2,478m climbing (12.8 runs)
• Rocky Mountain Altitude Powerplay (Dyname 4.0, 720Wh Battery) – 2,108m climbing (10.9 runs)
• Cube Stereo Hybrid 160 (Bosch Gen 4, 625Wh Battery) – 1,800m climbing (9.3 runs)
• Canyon Spectral:ON (Shimano EP8, 630Wh Battery) – 1,570m climbing (8 runs)
• Orbea Rise (Shimano EP8-RS, 360Wh Battery) – 1,388m climbing (7.2 runs)
• Specialized Levo SL (SL 1.1, 320Wh Battery) – 1,377m climbing (7.1 runs)
• Trek Fuel EXe (TQ-HPR50, 360Wh Battery) – 1,312m climbing (6.8 runs)
• Specialized Kenevo SL (SL 1.1, 320Wh Battery) – 1,053m climbing (5.5 runs)

As you can tell by those figures, the Fuel EXe managed to achieve considerably more range than the Kenevo SL, and not just because it has a larger capacity battery. The Fuel EXe is also lighter, comes fitted with faster-rolling tyres and features a more efficient suspension platform.

It didn’t get quite as much as the Levo SL however, and there are reasons for that. The 35Nm output of the Levo SL’s motor is naturally less demanding in terms of its fuel requirements, since it delivers a slower average riding speed. This makes the Fuel EXe a noticeably quicker bike on the climbs, which isn’t accounted for in our range test data.

Given the Orbea Rise has the same capacity battery as the Fuel EXe and a more powerful motor on paper, how did it achieve more range? The simple explanation is the tyres. The Rise M10 we tested was fitted with a lighter and much faster rolling Maxxis Dissector and Rekon tyre combo, which likely accounts for the difference.

Of course it’d be possible to get more range out of the Fuel EXe by fitting lower profile tyres, and you can also utilise the lower assist settings to reduce power consumption. Once the Range Extender batteries are available, Fuel EXe owners will have the opportunity to boost range by up to 40%, which will see it get closer to some of those bigger capacity e-MTBs.

Component highs & lows

As mentioned earlier, we won’t be dwelling on the components of our Trek Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS test bike. And truth be told, there’s not a lot to be said about the ultra high-end build kit that we haven’t discussed before.

We’ve largely ignored the TireWiz and AirWiz gizmos to begin with, partly because we’ve been experimenting with tyre and suspension setup. However, we’ll be delving more into their functionality now that we have access to the Trek Central app that pairs with the sensors to provide live readings and recommendations.

It is worth touching on the new Bontrager SE5 tyres, which are spec’d on each Fuel EXe model. These 2.5in wide tyres feature a Minion DHR II-inspired tread pattern and a dual compound mix that combines a firmer 61a rubber in the centre tread, and softer 50a rubber for the cornering blocks. They’re built upon the Core Strength casing, which combines sidewall protection with a sub-tread reinforcement for puncture protection. The result is a solid, durable and well-damped tyre that isn’t overly stiff on the trail, while also feeling predictable across a broad range of surfaces. They’re decent all-rounders, though they aren’t as tacky as a Maxxis 3C compound or a Specialized T9 tyre. If this were our bike, we’d likely be fitting something softer up front for a little more bite.

There have been some mild annoyances on our test bike, like the rattling thru-axle lever at the rear dropout. Thankfully this lever can be removed, though you do lose its handy 6mm hex key. That didn’t matter too much as the fork’s steerer tube comes loaded with a Bontrager BITS multi-tool inside. The tool can be a bit tricky to remove, and we also found the bits have a habit of coming loose, allowing them to rattle around inside the steerer. Once tightened up, the Fuel EXe returned to its blissfully silent state.

We love how the TQ display sits flush with the top tube, though it’d be nice to see a clock offered on one of the data screens. The option to display cadence would also be useful, especially while getting accustomed to the TQ motor’s output. The controller offers a nice tactile platform with an audible, yet discreet ‘beep’ whenever you switch assist levels. However, accessing the Walk mode requires you to constantly press down the top button with your thumb, which is awkward when you’re holding onto the bars and pushing the bike up a steep and slippery incline.

Otherwise all the electrics on the Fuel EXe have proven to be totally functional. Being able to easily remove the battery will be a welcome feature for anyone who needs to charge it separately to where the bike is stored, and we like that the main charge port is located high up on the downtube where it’s protected by a thick rubber plug. Internally there’s also an automatic lock built into the main battery’s connector, basically eliminating any chance of the cable coming loose while bouncing down the trail. Sure they’re only small details, but they’re also clear signs of a well-considered design.

Trek Fuel EXe vs Specialized Levo SL vs Orbea Rise

Over the past year we’ve spent a load of time aboard two of the Trek Fuel EXe’s main rivals; the Specialized Levo SL and Orbea Rise. So how do these bikes compare?

Specialized Levo SL

Specialized launched the Levo SL at the start of 2020, which shows just how far behind Trek and most other brands have been. No, the Levo SL wasn’t the first lightweight e-MTB to hit the market, but it is the bike that has legitimised the category.

The Levo SL is built around the SL 1.1 motor, which you’ll also find in the Kenevo SL and the Creo e-Road bike. This motor dishes out 35Nm of peak torque, making it considerably less powerful compared to the TQ motor in the Fuel EXe. It’s also much noisier, emitting an annoyingly whiny pitch that takes a while for the rider to tune out. However, the SL 1.1 motor does offer more intuitive power delivery, and it’s also better at handling high-cadence pedalling spurts.

In terms of ride quality, the Levo SL delivers noticeably plusher and more active suspension performance, which makes it a comfortable bike to pedal over choppy terrain. It does have 10mm more travel at the rear, though the suspension kinematic and shock tune also feels lighter compared to the Fuel EXe. We have found it easier to bottom out the Levo SL, and the sensation is harsh with the Float DPX2 shock.

The Levo SL’s handling is nice and lively, though the front-end steering is a little light with the 51mm fork offset, resulting in some twitchiness at speed. In comparison the Fuel EXe feels better balanced across a range of riding speeds thanks to its solid chassis and well-damped suspension. It’s no doubt the more modern bike of the two, making the two year-old Levo SL feel a little outdated.

It also has to be said that the Fuel EXe kills it on value compared to the Levo SL. The Levo SL Expert we tested features a Fox 36 GRIP2 fork and Float DPX2 shock, alloy Roval wheels, a SRAM GX/X01 drivetrain and Code RS brakes. In comparison, the Fuel EXe 9.8 XT gets a similar level of suspension albeit with a Shimano XT groupset, carbon wheels, carbon cranks and a one-piece carbon cockpit. Despite featuring a higher-end spec, the Fuel EXe sells for $2,100 AUD less , making for a far more appealing package.

The Orbea Rise arrived not long after the Levo SL at the tail-end of 2020, though it took a slightly different tact by taking an off-the-shelf Shimano EP8 motor and de-tuning it to reduce the peak torque output to 60Nm. Orbea also developed its own ‘RS’ firmware for the Japanese motor, which aimed to provide a more natural feel to the power delivery while improving efficiency. This was then paired to a smaller 360Wh battery and a gorgeously svelte carbon frame to deliver complete bike weights from as low as 16.2kg.

The more sensibly-spec’d Rise M10 we tested came in at 18.38kg, though it was fitted with lightweight Maxxis tyres that felt somewhat out of place. With more appropriate rubber, the Rise would likely come in at a similar weight to the Fuel EXe.

While value for money from Orbea is better than Specialized, it’s still not as impressive as the Fuel EXe. The Rise M10 comes with blingy Factory Series Fox suspension, a Shimano SLX/XT drivetrain and alloy Race Face wheels, but sells for two grand more than the Fuel EXe 9.8 XT.

On the trail the Rise is a closer match to the Fuel EXe. The geometry is pretty similar, though the Rise chassis doesn’t feel quite as stout when being pushed hard. This also comes down to the steeper head angle (65.5° vs 64.7°), and it’s also due to the suspension, which is marginally more sensitive off-the-top. It delivers terrific traction and a comfortable ride quality, though it’s not as supportive as the Fuel EXe.

Speaking of suspension, we wouldn’t be opposed to seeing both the Rise and Fuel EXe equipped with 150mm of rear travel like the Levo SL. Sure these are lightweight e-MTBs, but travel is travel, and we’re still talking about 18+kg bikes that are capable of going very fast on rough terrain. That said, any increase might see them encroaching too far into the territory of their bigger travel, full-powered siblings (the Wild FS and Rail).

We found there to be terrific power on tap from the Rise’ EP8-RS motor, and the E-Tube app allows you to tweak the acceleration response and assistance character of each setting, depending on how you want the power to come on. The stock tune works mighty well though, with the Rise being an efficient performer that feels natural and intuitive on the trail, with just a fraction more punch available for scaling crux features on a technical climb.

As mentioned earlier, the Shimano EP8 drive unit is much noisier than the Fuel EXe’s TQ motor, which is basically silent in comparison – both on the climbs and on the descents. We also prefer the clean integration of the TQ system, with its bright and easy-to-read top tube display. The standard display on the Rise is a rather austere junction box that features a couple of tiny LEDs. You can upgrade this to the Shimano EM800 display for an additional fee, though it comes with additional wires that add clutter to the cockpit. It’s plenty functional, just not as tidy as the Fuel EXe.

Flow’s Verdict

The Trek Fuel EXe is a terrific example of just how far e-MTB technology has come. Not only is it a fantastic looking bike that’s low on bulk, it also manages to deliver a load of performance out of an impressively lightweight package.

The unique TQ motor is stunningly quiet, and for many riders its 50Nm output will be ideal. Heavier folks and those chasing maximum power with maximum range will still be better served by the Rail and is full-powered Bosch motor. The Rail also features a plusher ride quality that suits brainless bombing down the roughest descents.

In comparison the Fuel EXe is a more involving bike to ride, and it rewards an active pilot that seeks to work and play with the terrain. It’s responsive and fun to ride on twisty singletrack, with the sort of on-point handling and geometry that we expect we’ll be seeing in the next generation Fuel EX.

While the suspension isn’t buttery smooth over smaller chatter, it does produce a heap of support and incredible control at higher speeds. Along with the stout chassis, the Fuel EXe exhibits a well-damped ride quality that shrugs off the big hits and awkward landings despite not having a tonne of travel.

Indeed for those riders who are looking for that hallowed middle-ground between a regular mountain bike and an e-MTB, the Fuel EXe presents one of the most compelling options to date.

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Fuel EX 7 gen 6 is a do-anything trail machine evolved to eat up singletrack. Upgraded 150mm front and 140mm rear suspension smooth out rough and technical descents, while a lightweight aluminum frame keeps things lively on the climbs. New in-frame storage and adjustable geometry give you all the perks that come with the carbon model, without the price tag. Tubeless wheels, and reliable Shimano SLX 1x12 drivetrain round-out this build for ultimate trail fun. New rear tyre (Bontrager Xr5) New BB New brake pads (100km ago) Regularly serviced by Trek dealer (Gear Change Tokai) Absolutely loved this bike, but I have moved overseas. Rear rim has small dent but has been straightened by Trek themselves. Holds tyre bead perfectly.

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Michael Rostov

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Michael Rostov was a crewman second class who served as an engineer aboard the Earth starship Enterprise NX-01 . He was an assistant to Commander Tucker .

Rostov was the head on an engineering team that included Crewman Jane Taylor ; he was always playing practical jokes on her. ( ENT : " The Forgotten ")

In January of 2152 , Rostov was linked to Captain Jonathan Archer , Commander Tucker , Crewman J. Kelly , and security officer Zabel when they were caught up in a strange, fibrous alien creature 's tentacles. ( ENT : " Vox Sola ")

In February of that year, Rostov piloted several of the Enterprise command staff to and from their shore leave on Risa . ( ENT : " Two Days and Two Nights ")

Later that year, Rostov attempted to reinitialize the plasma flow, after the Enterprise had been taken hostage by the Wisps ' ship , but was unable to because the power grid was not charging. When he reported this to Tucker, he noticed that Tucker was acting "wrong", and reported to Captain Archer that Tucker seemed confused, and, in addition, seemed to think Rostov was his superior officer . Later, when Rostov was ordered to prime the deuterium pumps and fire up the warp injectors , his body was taken over by a " Wisp ". When Tucker confronted him and asked him if he had any luck priming the pumps, the Wisp/Rostov stated, " I have no idea how to do that. This engine is very complex. " He was later escorted to his quarters , where he remained locked until he was freed of the wisp. ( ENT : " The Crossing ")

In February 2154 , when working on the port impulse manifold, Rostov was knocked unconscious by Lorian , who was stealing the ship's plasma injectors . ( ENT : " E² ")

• 1.1 Appearances
• 1.2 Background information
• 2 External link

Appendices [ ]

Appearances [ ].

• " Vox Sola "
• " Two Days and Two Nights "
• " The Crossing "

Background information [ ]

Rostov was played by actor Joseph Will .

It is likely Rostov originally had the surname "White". He was still referred to as that in a page of the final draft script of "Vox Sola", when that script was first issued. In the same script, Rostov was described as " A male crewman in his early thirties […] He's an engineer with a mischievous streak and a dark sense of humor. "

Due to the gooey alien which Rostov becomes caught up in during the episode "Vox Sola", Archer actor Scott Bakula coined and used the nickname "Goo Boy" for Joseph Will. After the character was introduced in "Vox Sola", plans were made for Rostov to reappear. Will said, " I remember bumping into Brannon Braga on set and him whispering to me that he couldn’t promise anything but they might bring Rostov back a few times if things worked out. " ( BLANKMANinc.com: The Star Trek Interviews )

In the final draft script of "Two Days and Two Nights", Rostov was given a couple of lines of dialogue in the episode's penultimate scene, though he doesn't speak at all in the final version of that scene. He was scripted to relay news to Captain Archer that, following a rock climbing accident, Ensign Mayweather was going to be fine, with "just a broken leg," and Rostov would have later apologized for missing the shore leave on Risa.

In the final draft script of "The Crossing", Rostov was initially referred to as "a young engineer," with no clarification if this was supposed to be the same Rostov who had appeared earlier in the series.

Contemplating why Rostov didn't appear after the second season of Star Trek: Enterprise , Joseph Will stated, " Unfortunately for me, they had so many series regulars on Enterprise that the producers couldn’t justify involving peripheral story lines about Rostov the engineer or they didn’t particularly like him. " ( BLANKMANinc.com: The Star Trek Interviews )

External link [ ]

• Michael Rostov at Memory Beta , the wiki for licensed Star Trek works

2017 Bearbike Rostov Base

Published sizing recommendations, stack and reach vs. category trend.

The Bike Insights Upright/Aggressive scale is based on analysis of a bike’s proportions relative to similar sized bikes in the same category.