Trek Farley 5 vs. 7 vs. 9.6 – 2021
As Trek fat bike riders get ready for 2021, the big debate is surrounded around which one makes the most sense. Every person has different needs, and it can be challenging to find what bike fits into a particular lifestyle.
All three Trek Farley options are great to have, but getting too much of a bike can be a quick way to spend a lot more money than anybody wants to spend.
When looking at the Trek Farley 5 , 7, and 9.6, are they all worth the investment in 2021? All bring different qualities to the table with different price points.
It is a matter of finding a quality fit for each individual, and then graduating to something better when the time comes. Some will start at the Farley 5, while seasoned riders will jump to a more sophisticated option.
Trek Farley 5
The 2021 Trek Farley 5 is expected to be a big seller once again thanks to its affordable price, brand name recognition, and overall performance.
Like previous models from Trek, this one is all about getting people into fat bike riding with a durable entry-level option. Some people will stick with this for quite a while, while others will use it as simply a bike to get started before graduating to something else.
Riders love the fact that they will be able to get quite a bit of value out of a bike like this without having to spend a ton of money. It does not have the best components ever, but it is still a lightweight aluminum frame including a dropper post that is pretty comfortable.
The carbon fork smooths out the ride, and other high-level components make this a bike that seems well worth the money. Some people have a very hard time finding anything like this under $2000, but Trek has always made the Farley 5 a pretty affordable option overall.
Who Is The Farley 5 for?
Anyone who is getting into fat biking for the first time does not need to spend an arm and a leg on the best of the best. This is affordably priced for people who want to ride all year round, as they can handle the snow or the dirt with ease.
The traction is outstanding, the geometry of the bike is great, and it just feels very comfortable no matter where a person goes.
Even advanced riders could find a lot of value in the Trek Farley 5, as it could be used as a training bike or one that does not have to be treated quite as well.
Having multiple bikes can preserve the better one’s life, and it still provides a good amount of value for riders who want something consistent. It is always worth checking out if this is something that can financially be accomplished.
Is It Worth The Price?
Having a fat bike that can truly be ridden during all four seasons certainly helps. Some fat bikes are a little more geared towards a specific type of riding, and it can be frustrating for people who are starting out. This will not necessarily replace every other need for a bike, but some people will only use this one no matter what they are doing.
The components that a person gets with this Farley 5 is certainly great as well. The Shimano Deore 1×10 drivetrain is outstanding, and the wheels that come with the bike by default work very well also.
The components will not really be that much of a difference compared to some of the higher-level options, making it a great bang for the buck overall.
Is The Farley 5 The Best Fat Bike For The Price?
If the goal is to stay on budget, the Trek Farley 5 is the way to go. It is going to be one of the best value fat bikes out there, and it still provides enough benefits that people will use it for a long time without issues.
Those looking for a more specific type of fat bike riding, or wanting better components overall, will be better off looking at the Farley 7 or the Farley 9.6.
It is not as though the Farley 5 is terrible, it is just not going to get that same level of overall feel and grip that people are hoping for.
Trek Farley 7 2021
The best way to describe the Farley 7 is that it feels a lot like a traditional mountain bike, but with a fat bike build overall. It handles very well on all different types of surfaces, but it has that ability to feel very comfortable on sand or snow.
The geometry is a little sportier compared to the Farley 5, and better components across-the-board make it a solid option as well.
It is a matter of making a few sacrifices with any mid tier range and hoping that it works out for the best. People know that they are not going to get the fastest fat bike out there. But they are still going to control the weight and get to where they want to be in an efficient manner.
Being able to climb and go downhill makes a big difference for riders as well, and the Trek Farley 7 2021 does exactly that.
Who Is The Farley 7 For?
People who really want versatility will love this mid-tier option from Trek. It can perform well in just about any situation, and it really keeps a person on the right track when going downhill. With a strong all-around build, it is something that is definitely one of the best values out there.
Another huge positive with this bike is that it has a great suspension fork that provides good overall comfort. Having a fork that can be very dependable on all different types of rides truly helps out.
It is not the most agile fat bike a person can find in this price range, but its versatility with a fork and a dropper post makes it one worth testing out.
It is still user-friendly enough for beginners, but the price range might be a little too much for people to jump on right away. This is why the Trek Farley 7 caters to a slightly more sophisticated crowd, but one that does not feel like they need to go all the way to the top in the price range.
Is The Trek Farley 7 Worth The Price?
The price is very much justified because of all the different components that make up his bike. Not only does it perform well from a cruising and exploration standpoint, but the little things like the tires they come with and the crankset matter as well.
People sometimes find it very difficult to find a bike that is ready to go from the very beginning, but a person does not need to make any other upgrades to get it going as it should.
Durability also makes it a true one-time investment for a lot of people, which certainly makes the price point that much more tolerable.
It is never easy to make a huge purchase for any type of bike riding, even if a person knows they will use it almost every day. Getting quality components from the very beginning ensures that a person does not have to replace components and make some tweaks along the way constantly. That can make an already expensive bike that much tougher to maintain.
If the bike has a little bit more carbon on it, it would be the best value out there. Some companies out there do put a bit more carbon on their mid tier option, which means a slightly lighter and more comfortable ride.
With that being said, it is still one of the best options out there with the Alpha Platinum Aluminum Frame.
Is the Farley 7 The Best Fat Bike For The Price?
The Farley 7 is a little bit more expensive than some of the others in this price range, but its versatility and well-rounded performance make it one of the very best.
There might be companies out there that offer better fat bikes at a lower cost, but brand recognition does make a bit of a difference.
One thing to keep in mind is that getting the opportunity to get this fixed at a local bike shop is much easier thanks to the Trek brand. Since so many places are very familiar with the brand, it is easy to slip in and get work done correctly right away.
Trek Farley 9.6 2021
As the most expensive of the three options in 2021, the Trek Farley 9.6 better live up to expectations. The good news is that this carbon fat bike is one of the best options for its price, even if it is over $3000 retail.
It is not for everyone, as beginner riders will not get that much value out of it, but it definitely brings a lot to the table.
Is The Farley 9.6 Worth The Price?
It really comes down to how often a person rides a fat bike, and if they are looking for performance that can take things to another level.
Spending over $3000 on a fat bike might seem absolutely crazy to some people. For others, they know that this is a pretty expensive sport overall, and a person needs to pay for quality.
Considering all that it brings the table, getting some of the top technology out there right now and a fat bike is worth the extra price.
The first thing people notice when they get a chance to ride the Farley 9.6 is that it is built for speed on any surface type. It is a very light and fast ride overall, and the tires are built to handle just about anything thrown its way.
Being able to knife through different surfaces is certainly a huge advantage, but will keep things lightweight because there is all sorts of carbon on the bike.
Having a bike that is truly built for all four seasons helps tremendously. Some people will invest in two different fat bikes so that they can go riding throughout the year.
That is not necessary in the scenario, as the bike can do just about anything so the riders are having a fun time.
Little things such as the dropper post that allow for a way to lower the saddle, and horizontal sliding dropouts that can help people get the right geometry make a difference.
There are plenty of customizable options with this bike, and anyone who really wants to take their riding to the next level should make sure that they are giving every single thing a try.
Who Is The Trek Farley 9.6 For?
Performance riders in the fat bike community will love how this bike is positioned to succeed at all costs. It really feels like a totally different bike compared to some of the entry-level options, as the Farley 9.6 can make a huge difference with all the carbon. Not everyone is going to appreciate the difference truly, but people pay a premium for a reason.
Even beginners will still find it to be fairly nice to ride around since it does not have a huge learning curve. The 27.5-inch fat bike tires are very efficient, as people want to roll fast and have that level control they are looking for.
It does not overcomplicate fat bike riding in general, which is great for people who just want to go out there and tackle what is in front of them.
Price will hold up some people, but what they are paying for mostly comes down to the OCLV Mountain carbon. This is a mountain-specific carbon fiber with a few unique materials thanks to what Trek has worked on over the years.
They went through a lot of testing to make sure that this is a build that a lot of people will get plenty of use out of.
What Makes The Farley 9.6 Worth The Price?
Carbon is hard to argue with when it comes to any bike out there. Having carbon fiber built specifically for mountain bike riding makes this a fat bike worth checking out.
It is nearly indestructible and will provide a comfortable, lightweight ride, and it keeps people stable at all times. That for many is worth the price alone, as people are pushing speeds and trying tough trails to push their limits.
This is a bike with all the premium touches, and that is just about anything that a person can ask for. There are fat bikes out there that charge more, but no one will have a usable bike out there that does much better than this.
Trek has been able to fine tune the 9.6 over the years, and now they feel like it is one of the best values a person could find as long as they are willing to push the limits and see what it brings to the table.
Is The Trek Farley 9.6 The Best Fat Bike In That Price Range?
The usual competitors are once again putting up strong challenges to the Trek Farley 9.6. Whether it is Salsa, Giant , Rocky Mountain, or any other company for that matter, competition continues to get tougher and tougher.
Just like all the other Farley options, there is something to be said for buying such an expensive bike that is also well known in case anything goes wrong.
Repairs can get pretty expensive if the bike is really rare as it is much better to go with a trusted brand that has years of reputation delivering what people have come to expect.
Final Comparison
It can be confusing for some people to try to figure out what Farley bike from Trek makes the most sense for them. They all bring something different to the table, but those who can afford it should probably look at the Farley 7.
It seems to be the most versatile option overall, and it is a bit cheaper than the Farley 9.6. It is not going to be perfect for every type of rider out there, but enough people will get value out of it that makes it worthwhile.
If possible, try to get a chance to ride on any of these fat bikes first to see how they feel. There will always be opportunities to make some tweaks along the way, but a person can get a pretty good idea with an easy ride.
Most bike stores will allow this, and there is not a need to buy the bike from them in the end. The best prices are found online in most cases, but getting a chance to at least see the style up close is worthwhile. Since Trek is such a popular brand, a lot of companies carry these bikes as well.
Whatever a person goes with, they will have the opportunity to have a solid fat bike for a long time. They can hold up for very long periods of time, and that is all people can ask for in the end.
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The 9 Best Fat Tire Bikes For Any Terrain
Neither snow, nor slop, nor sand, nor mud will stop these bikes.
Editors’ Note: On January 4, 2024, Aventon issued a voluntary .css-f828e2{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-thickness:0.0625rem;text-decoration-color:inherit;text-underline-offset:0.25rem;color:#067EA7;-webkit-transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;word-break:break-word;padding-bottom:0.05rem;padding-top:0.05rem;font-weight:bold;-webkit-background-size:0 0;background-size:0 0;background-image:linear-gradient( to bottom, #7fdbfa, #7fdbfa);background-repeat:repeat-x;-webkit-background-position:0 100%;background-position:0 100%;}.css-f828e2:hover{color:#045976;text-decoration-color:border-link-body-hover;-webkit-background-size:.625rem 3.125rem;background-size:.625rem 3.125rem;} recall of its Sinch.2 folding e-bike after notifying riders in August 2023 of issues the bike was having with its acceleration. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission , “the recalled e-bikes can accelerate unexpectedly, resulting in loss of control, posing crash and injury hazards.” Though no one has reported any injuries, if you own a Sinch.2, don't ride it. Contact an Aventon dealer to get the bike repaired for free. The dealer will run a software update that, according to Aventon, "mitigates the motor engagement issue."
It’s been nearly 40 years since bike manufacturers started experimenting with the first fat tire bikes for sand and snow. Some of the first designs were created by welding multiple wheel rims together. Today, it feels like they’re everywhere.
With tires ranging between 4-and 5-inches wide, fat tire bikes are made to provide traction over shifty terrain like sand and snow. They also allow you to roll over most any kind of bump in the road–rocks, roots, cavernous potholes–without the fear of toppling over.
If you live somewhere that receives a lot of snow, they allow you to keep riding all winter long . If you’re near the beach, you can cruise on the sand, not just the boardwalk. Talk to most anyone who has ridden one and they’ll tell you that fat bikes are, above all, incredibly fun to ride.
More Off-Roading Gear: Best Mountain Bikes ● Best Mountain Bike Shorts ● Best Gravel Gear
The Best Fat Tire Bikes
- Best Overall: Kona Woo
- Best Value: State 6061 Trail+
- Best All-Arounder: Salsa Heyday
- Best Carbon: Trek Farley 9.6
- Best Folding: Aventon Sinch.2
The Expert (Vanessa Nirode): A NYC-based, all-weather bike commuter, I’ve been writing about bikes, gear, health and wellness and adventure travel for 15 years at publications like Bicycling , Runner’s World , Time, HuffPost , Adventure Cycling Magazine, and many others. I’m also an avid bikepacker, and have cycled through most of Europe, Pakistan, Indonesia, and Mongolia, Russia, Iran and Turkey, among others.
What to Consider in a Fat Tire Bike
How we selected the best fat tire bikes, our full fat tire bike reviews, q+a with our experts, .css-1f6aja5{-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;background-color:#ffffff;border:0;border-bottom:none;border-top:0.0625rem solid #e8e8e8;color:#000;cursor:pointer;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;font-style:inherit;font-weight:inherit;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:flex-start;justify-content:flex-start;padding-bottom:0.3125rem;padding-top:0.3125rem;scroll-margin-top:0rem;text-align:left;width:100%;}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1f6aja5{scroll-margin-top:3.375rem;}} .css-jtmji2{border-radius:50%;width:1.875rem;border:thin solid #6f6f6f;height:1.875rem;padding:0.4rem;margin-right:0.625rem;} .css-jlx6sx{display:-webkit-inline-box;display:-webkit-inline-flex;display:-ms-inline-flexbox;display:inline-flex;width:0.9375rem;height:0.9375rem;margin-right:0.625rem;-webkit-transform:rotate(90deg);-moz-transform:rotate(90deg);-ms-transform:rotate(90deg);transform:rotate(90deg);-webkit-transition:-webkit-transform 250ms ease-in-out;transition:transform 250ms ease-in-out;} suspension.
A hardtail with a rigid fork is the most affordable and most common type of fat tire bike. Because of the wider tires, and the fact that you typically run those tires at low pressure, even a rigid bike can feel like it has suspension, as the tires conform to irregularities in the trail.
If your riding surface is particularly uneven, rooty, or rocky, or you want to run your tires at a higher pressure for less squirm, consider buying a fat bike with full suspension. A full-suspension setup can help you maneuver better, keep you from feeling beat up after a long ride, and make the ride more enjoyable if you swap fat rims for standard mountain bike rims. However, if you typically ride in extremely cold temperatures, a rigid fork may be more reliable.
Wheel Swapping
Some fat bikes are designed to accommodate both fat-tire rims and standard 27.5- or 29-inch mountain bike rims. If you don’t want to ride fat tires all year, buying a frame with multiple configuration options lets you have one bike with multiple personalities.
In snow or sand, run it with a fat-tire setup. Buy a set of narrower mountain bike wheels, equip it with smaller tires, and you have another option that’s lighter and may be better suited to everyday riding.
All fat bikes are built with different hub standards, so you’ll likely have to buy a dedicated second set of wheels if you want to enjoy different options.
Most fat bikes use 26-inch wheels, though 27.5-inch builds are not uncommon. Larger wheels are faster rolling and make trail obstacles even easier to push over or through. Fat tire wheels come in many different rim widths, ranging from 60- to 100mm.
In general, the wider the tire you want to use, the wider the rim you will want. However, a narrower rim will save weight and make the bike feel livelier.
The fatter the tire, the cushier the ride. Five-inch tires give more float on soft ground than four-inch models. But fatter tires are heavier, slower, and bouncier on firm ground. For riding on firmer and drier trails, and at higher speeds, a narrower tire provides a more satisfying and less squirmy ride.
Whichever you choose, consider setting them up tubeless and running low pressures for less chance of flatting. Just ensure the tubeless sealant you choose works at subzero temperatures. If you are riding in icy terrain instead of snowy trails, you’ll want to buy or make a set of studded tires for enhanced grip.
Tire Pressure
Tire pressure is the best tool you have to fine-tune the performance of your fat bike. With 5-inch-wide tires in the softest conditions, you may be running pressures as low as 2 psi. In firmer or rougher terrain, or for higher speeds, you will want to use more pressure to increase the support the tire offers and to sharpen the bike’s handling. You may even want to change your tire pressure several times on a single ride as you encounter different conditions.
For the best fat-biking experience, you’ll want to invest in a good digital tire pressure gauge , because differences as little as a half-pound of pressure make a significant difference in the feel and performance of a fat tire.
The bikes included here were selected by our amazing and knowledgeable test team, who spent significant time riding each of them in various conditions. We also researched the market, consulted user reviews, spoke to professional bike shop mechanics and owners, and used our own experience to compile the best options. The bikes were evaluated based on handling, comfort and feel, reliability, and the quality of components.
Kona Woo Fat Tire Bike
With 4.8-inch-wide tires, a plethora of accessory mounts, powerful Shimano MT410 hydraulic brakes, and trail geometry, the Kona Woo is both versatile and dependable. Equipped with a 12 speed Shimano Deore drivetrain and 11 x 51 rear cassette, the Woo climbs steep, snowy mountains without fear (regardless of your reservations).
Three pack-cage mounts on each side of the carbon fork as well as two sets of water bottle cage mounts on the down tube make it an excellent choice for bikepacking expeditions. If you just want to take it out for some snowy single-track riding, the trail geometry provides balance while ascending and stability when descending.
The internal headset allows for bar and stem height adjustability, while the tire width means you can pedal over most any surface (sand, snow, rocks, and roots) without giving it a second thought. At 33 pounds, it’s also one of the lighter fat bikes on our list, which adds to its versatility. It’s not so heavy that you’ll unduly struggle to get it up and down stairs when necessary, or up into a train car or vehicle mount.
State 6061 Trail+ Fat Bike
At just under $1,000, the State 6061 Trail+ is an exceptional value. If you’re thinking about adding a fat bike to your stable, it’s an affordable way to dip your toe in the water, so to speak. Its aluminum frame and integrated headset boasts a streamlined look. Its 4.5-inch tires roll confidently over snow, sand and rocks, making it a wonderful explorer bike, though the shorter reach geometry makes it better suited for flatter trails. The rear rack mounts make it a great choice for commuting and shopping trips.
It features a 9-Speed Shimano Altus drivetrain and mechanical Tektro disc brakes, which aren’t elite components, but offer sufficiently strong and reliable performance in line with its price. The lower gear ratio (11 x 36 rear cassette), though, will likely make steep climbing (in snow or otherwise) quite challenging, and the bike’s overall geometry can make descending at fast speeds feel a bit harrowing – especially if you are a novice single-track mountain biker like me.
Salsa Heyday Fat Tire Bike
Salsa’s versatile Heydey fat bike, formerly known as the Mukluk , represents an almost perfect marriage of speed and off-road capability. Salsa has been making a version of this bike since 2010 and it seems to be one of the most popular bikes within the bikepacking community based on my adventures.
The Alternator 1.0 dropouts support both single speed and geared drivetrains (it comes equipped with microShift’s Advent 9-speed version with derailleur clutch) as well as different tire and wheel sizes. The dropouts include a swinging dropout design that makes adjusting the chain-stay length quick and easy. The low center of gravity near the rear of the bike makes it comfortably stable when rolling over rocks, roots, and other bumpy terrain. You can also order the Heydey with 27.5- or 29-inch wheels and tires.
It features lots of clearance–enough to accommodate tires up to 4.8-inches wide–and a slew of cargo mounts, which explains why it’s so popular among bikepackers. It has two water bottle mounts in the frame triangle, down tube mounts for an additional bottle, pump, or other accessory, and two sets of fork mounts designed to hold Salsa Anything Cages and other similar 3-hole accessories.
It’s also compatible with the Salsa Alternator 190 rear rack by installing a Salsa Rack-Lock or Post-Lock . (The rack lock keeps your seat post in place and provides mounts for a rack, while the post lock only works as a rack mounting device.)
All of this means the Heydey can easily be dressed up or down depending on where you plan to ride and for how long. It performs well as a touring bike for long expeditions, an overnight winter bikepacking rig, and a rigid mountain bike . All in all, it’s an excellent, well-rounded and reliable fat tire bike.
Trek Farley 9.6
This is Trek’s flagship fat tire, and the brand has pulled out all the stops to make a bike that will likely be the answer to every off-road lover and downhill bomber’s winter bike wish. Like many fat bikes, Trek's Farley 9.6 has stud-ready 4.5-inch-wide tires. However, those tires are wrapped around larger 27.5-inch rims. The larger diameter means smoother rolling and better traction, emphasizing the best qualities of any fat bike.
In addition to larger wheels, the Farley 9.6 has a dropper post and a carbon suspension fork. The dropper post gives you control at higher speeds, and the fork provides additional traction and control on hard surfaces. On a fat tire bike, more traction is always better.
It’s also supremely lightweight at only 29 lbs., and comes with a SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain and SRAM Level TL brakes. The Farley’s handling befits this all-season versatility, proving predictable at slower speeds on soft surfaces and surprisingly predictable at higher speeds on dirt trails. If you’re the kind of rider who goes out no matter how gnarly the conditions might get, this is the perfect fat bike.
Aventon Sinch.2
If you want a folding bike that can handle bumpy roads or mild trails, the Aventon Sinch.2 is a Class 2 electric bike that brings some fat bike fun to the commute-friendly folding bike form factor. It features a powerful 500-watt sustained rear hub motor (750 watts at peak speed) with an Aventon 8-speed drivetrain, a range of 55 miles (which should be more than enough to get a few days errands/commutes done), a top speed of 20 miles per hour and an integrated 48-volt battery.
The bike has 4 different power settings including eco, tour, sport, and turbo as well as a throttle on demand. The throttle itself can be unplugged and removed if you’re riding somewhere they are prohibited.
Notable perks include a fender- and rear rack, front suspension with 45mm of travel for a smooth ride no matter what sort of terrain you’re pedaling over, and a step through frame which, makes it easy to hop on and off when running errands. The Sinch.2 design adds a new torque sensor, which measures how much pressure you’re applying to the pedals and provides assistance accordingly (this helps to alleviate unexpected power bursts.)
Oh, and there’s a concealed USB port for phone charging and a clear LED display that shows speed, battery life and pedal assist level. All of this makes the Sinch.2 a great choice for commuters who want to ditch their car, but would prefer to avoid arriving at every destination looking sweaty… Like me.
Before you invest in a Sinch.2, it’s worth taking note that Aventon has recalled Sinch.2 bikes sold between April and August 2023 due to reports of bikes accelerating unexpectedly. Should you purchase the device and experience such an issue, Aventon can fix the issue with a software update, which technicians will install at your nearest authorized dealer .
Diamondback El Oso Nino 20
Designed for ages 4 to 9, from 44- to 54-inches tall, the Diamondback El Oso Nino features a tough, high-tensile steel frame and fork that can withstand most any obstacle a young adventurer may subject it to, including rocky and root-laden trails, sidewalks, and your neighbor’s backyard.
Suitable to run at low pressure (like all fat bikes), the 4-inch tires provide traction over a wide area as well as ample float across soft surfaces like sand, helping young riders maintain an upright, stable position on their forays riding over soft, squishy ground.
The Shimano Tourney 1 x 7 drivetrain shifts easily (though it is a grip shift ) while the Apex mechanical disc brakes ensure excellent stopping power that helps prevent accidentally running into things like bushes or kiddie pools — unless, of course, that was the intention. When we were young, my brothers and I routinely plowed our bikes into wood piles and fire pits just to see if they would go through or over and we’d remain seated. We would have loved the El Oso Nino.
Trek Farley 9
The Trek Farley 9 stands out in the overlanding and bikepacking categories because of its fully equipped frame-specific racks and bags, progressive trail geometry, and high-end components. It comes with custom racks (Farley front and back), a fender, frame bag ( Adventure Boss full frame bag ), as well as dry bag holders.
But you aren’t bound to that configuration: The frame and fork support a whole slew of mounts to outfit and gear up any way you desire. The carbon fork, for instance, has both lower mounts for cages (triple bottle bosses) and top mounts for Trek’s custom front rack, plus rubber bumpers on the dropouts to protect them when you remove the front wheel.
The internally routed travel dropper post means you can adjust your seat position when needed and get behind the saddle when navigating steep descents. The 4.5-inch tires installed on 27.5-inch wheels keep you rolling over sand and snow, as well as mud, dirt and rock while still being ‘fast-ish’ on pavement. The 12-speed SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain with 11-50 rear cassette means climbing even while fully loaded won’t completely crush your soul (or legs).
Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus Electric Fat Tire Bike
Available as a high-step or step-through, the RadRover is a Class 2 e-bike that makes sense for commuting or tooling around town, as well as exploring unpaved trails. With its 750-watt hub motor and Shimano’s Altus 7-speed drivetrain, the bike has a maximum range of 45 miles and a top speed of 20 miles per hour. (Don’t worry: The LED display makes it quite clear how much juice you have left at all times.)
The RadRover 6 Plus features five levels of pedal assist, depending on how hard you want to work. The bike is heavy, though, and it feels a bit sluggish at times no matter what setting or gear you’re in. It will also make you think twice about maneuvering it up or down stairs of any kind.
The RadRover includes front and rear fenders, a bell, kickstand, and lights with options to add a wide array of accessory kits (sold separately), including a rear rack or baskets for all-terrain adventures. These accessories make it an excellent and highly versatile leisure bike: It’s perfect for the beach, running errands, and overnight camping trips.
Aventon Aventure.2
With bulky 4-inch tires for ripping through terrain and a sturdy build to safely plow through it all, the Aventure.2 is one impressive fat bike. An update from its predecessor , this e-bike has a new torque sensor that offers more control over its powerful 750-watt rear hub motor, making for a more accessible ride for those new to e-bikes, as well as lighter-weight riders mounting this 77-pound beast. It has four levels of pedal assist and a throttle—it can reach a top speed of 28 mph, with up to a 60-mile range on a single charge.
Aventon’s Aventure.2 has a clear, easily legible full-color display for tracking metrics like speed and distance, plus smart features like integrated turn signals and lights further assist in trail safety. It also has a front suspension fork for keeping comfy on gravel, hydraulic disc brakes, and it even includes a rack and fenders.
Our only qualm is its weight, which limits its use on singletrack mountain bike trails. But take this bike out on a snowy day commute or your next muddy camping trip, and it's sure to impress.
What is a derailleur clutch?
A derailleur clutch, when engaged, adds tension to your chain so it won’t bounce around and fall off when you’re rolling over bumps. It’s found most commonly on bikes designed for single track riding and tough mountain trails where dropping your chain can be significantly annoying. As you might expect, having one can come in handy on a fat bike, but I wouldn’t say it’s essential.
Are mechanical or hydraulic disc brakes better?
As with most technical decisions, it depends on the situation. If you plan to propel your fat bike up and down steep trails on a regular basis, you may want to consider hydraulic disc brakes.
Hydraulic disc brakes tend to work better than mechanical ones in cold weather, and provide more stopping power on steep descents. They’re also usually lighter and likely to last longer than mechanical disc brakes. Lastly, they don’t require as much pressure to activate and allow for more nuanced (or gradual) braking.
However, I personally prefer mechanical disc brakes because of my predilection for embarking on cycling adventures far from civilization. They’re easier to maintain yourself, and parts are more readily available. As a result, mechanical disc brakes may be the better choice if you’re shopping for a travel bike or if, like me, you routinely find yourself far off the beaten path.
Why does the size of the brake rotor matter?
Larger brake rotors increase the braking surface, allowing the brake pad to disperse heat more effectively. That means more stopping power. Bigger brake rotors usually also weigh more, which can be an issue on a road bike , but the difference will be negligible on a fat bike.
Are fat bikes slower and more difficult to pedal?
You will definitely move slower on a fat bike than on a road or gravel one. Fat bikes usually weigh more than the average mountain bike, which makes pedaling uphill more difficult. It also takes more effort to accelerate, so you aren’t going to achieve any fast starts on a fat bike without an e-bike and pedal assistance.
However, some types of pedaling are easier on a fat bike. You can ride over rocky terrain or soft dirt, as well as through slippery mud with confidence because of the substantial traction of your wider tires.
Vanessa Nirode is a freelance writer who covers wellness, culture, outdoor adventure and travel for Hearst , HuffPost , PopSci , BBC Travel , and Threads , among others. She’s also a pattern maker and tailor for film and television but most of the time, she’d rather just be riding her bicycle.
Kevin Cortez is an editor for Runner's World, Bicycling, and Popular Mechanics covering reviews. A culture and product journalist for over ten years, he’s an expert in men’s style, technology, gaming, coffee, e-bikes, hiking, gear, and all things outdoors. He most recently worked as the Style Editor for Reviewed, a top product recommendation site owned by USA TODAY. He also helped with the launch of WSJ's Buy Side commerce vertical, and has covered the music and podcast industries for Mass Appeal, Genius, Vulture, Leafly, Input, and The A.V. Club. Equally passionate about leisure as he is his penmanship, Kevin dedicates his spare time to graphic novels, birding, making cold brew, and taking long, meandering walks.
As Deputy Editor, Tara Seplavy leads Bicycling’s product test team; after having previously led product development and sourcing for multiple bike brands, run World Championship winning mountain bike teams, wrenched at renowned bicycle shops in Brooklyn, raced everything from criteriums to downhill, and ridden bikes on six different continents (landing herself in hospital emergency rooms in four countries and counting). Based in Easton, Pennsylvania, Tara spends tons of time on the road and trail testing products. A familiar face at cyclocross races, crits, and bike parks in the Mid Atlantic and New England, on weekends she can often be found racing for the New York City-based CRCA/KruisCX team. When not riding a bike, or talking about them, Tara listens to a lot of ska, punk, and emo music, and consumes too much social media.
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FARLEY 5, 7 or 9.6
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First post here so please be kind! I'm 70 and new to mountain biking. Rode a street bike some but its getting WAY to dangerous. Selling a Trek Madone 5.9 and looking to get a fat bike. I will be using it for the beach in the summer. Riding down the ski runs in Park City, again in the summer. Any trails I can find that fit me in the Northwest. Not looking to ride hard, just going to have fun. Any thoughts would be appreciated. THANKS, SKIP
I think the 7 is a great value. Trade out the dropper and suspension fork for Bontrager's rigid carbon for both. Probably save a couple bucks too. The 5 is a great value for an entry level fat bike too. If budget is not a huge deal, then I can't imagine you'd be mad about the 9.6.
5 and 9.6 on sale.
What are the advantages or not to suspension on a fat bike?
Full suspension will beat you up less, provide you with more security and much more comfort over roots and rock. Consider a Farley EX8
Skipperw I bought a Farley ex8 this year off eBay after looking at the other Farley models. I have had some back issues and just figured more suspension the better. I love it I'm not riding anything super aggressive but I was rough on my body in my younger years and I'm paying for it now. My first ride on a true fat bike with 26 x 4.8 tires sold me the cushion was great Mine has less fat tires but the suspension makes up for it and then some If you have any questions about the ex8 I'll try to answer them. Good luck Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Thank you for the input. I am leaning towards a bike with at least front suspension. Don't think I need a carbon frame. I will look at the ex8 some more but I do like the fattys. Do you notice the added weight at all with the full suspension bike?
I don't notice the extra weight My friend has a Farley 9 and when we load them in the back of his truck they feel the same I don't know that I would really notice a couple pounds either way though. And I have a few pictures of an ex8 with 27.5x 4.5 barbagazies on it that are pretty fat And it looks awesome too apparently there's enough clearance but I think that's the max. Someone else posted about removing the dropper post To save some weight. I think the dropper post is one of my favorite parts of the bike I wouldn't own a bike without one now. Again I'm just riding around having fun I don't go fast And I'm not doing anything crazy Sometimes I carry a backpack with a few pounds of stuff Sometimes I'm bare minimum. I personally don't notice weight differences. Maybe I'm pushing a little harder then the other guys But my bike is the coolest bike I've been on so far. I took a break for a few years but I had a decked out Santa Cruz nomad before this bike and I never smiled while riding it like I do on my Farley. It's like a monster truck to me I live in Florida so it's mostly root filled trails Sugar sand Mud Or pavement for me Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
The 27.5x4.5 tires on the EX8 really interest me. Do you know if the bike had to be modified in any way or did they just fit? Would it be possible for you to post a couple of the pics you have so I can see them. THX
I don't think 4.5 inch tires are possible. I don't know for sure since I have no interest in tires that wide. I've ridden my EX8 with its stock 3.8 all winter, on groomed trails and out on our lake. Maybe wider tires would be helpful in ungroomed deep snow, but I don't ride that. In the meantime, 4.5 inch tires in the summer get you nothing but higher rolling resistance and more rotating mass. 3.8 wide tires are an excellent balance on not being too heavy/cumbersome to pedal easily, but wide enough to have great traction. The cushioning ability of a super-wide fat tire is unnecessary on an EX8 and wouldn't add anything, in fact would detract, I'm confident. The Mulfuts and rims on a stock EX8 are tubeless-ready and super-easy to convert. I don't notice the weight of the EX8, but I do notice the decreased rotating mass from the tubeless conversion.
kend said: I searched on here and found it I do not recall any modifications front is no problem The rear is tight but I guess if it fits it fits Just don't stick your fingers in there while you're riding View attachment 1245601 Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Click to expand...
Again not my bike It's a picture I found on here but I plan on buying those tires soon Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
THANKS EVERYONE for your responses. Just made a deal on a Farley 7. So time will tell if I did the right thing. First two mods are going to be tubeless and a good droppost. Thanks again
27.5 x 4.5 Barbegazi won't fit in a Bluto (it won't turn or will rub badly) but will fit in a Mastodon.
Congrats! Farley 7 was my choice too :thumbsup: I picked up a barely used 2018 LBS Demo marked down by $1200 last Fall. The ride is just amazing compared to my old HardTail MTB and I Love the Mastodon! My first mod was a Bontrager Line Dropper (internal routing) then I Studded the Gnarwhals for Winter riding. Best Mod Ever if you ride snow/ice! View attachment 1228299 View attachment 1228300 I'll be swapping over to my 27.5X4.5 Barbegazi's soon, Still shopping for a set of Carbon wheels to go tubeless for the Summer.
You're not gonna go 3.8? Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
Get a 9.6 and put a Mastodon on it.
Man I love the 27.5 Hodags on a set of jackalopes! Rebuilt the rear Jack with a DT Swiss 350 Big Ride with 108 poe. This is on my 17 7 this thing rolls. Also haven't noticed much cush loss between the Barbi's and the Hodags. Was the best upgrade on the bike.
if anyone is interested, i have a brand new pair of 27.5 x 3.8 Hodag's for sale. Message me if interested.
PM sent😉
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2023 Trek Farley 9.6 Review
Are you looking for a high-performing fat bike that can provide you with a great riding experience?
Trek’s Farley 9.6 is one of the most popular fat bikes on the market. It offers an all-around great ride, thanks to its reliable frame, top-notch components, and versatile geometry.
This year’s model was updated with several new features, making it one of the best fat bikes available.
If you are looking for a comfortable and durable fat bike, the Trek Farley 9.6 is worth your consideration – but how well does it really compare to other models on the market?
In this review we will take an in-depth look at all aspects of this bike to help you decide if it is right for you.
Trek’s Farley 9.6 fat bike is designed for comfort, stability and durability on any terrain.
It features a lightweight carbon frame with internal derailleur & dropper post routing, 197x12mm adjustable horizontal sliding dropouts, double-wall rims and upgraded components.
We’ll be diving deep into the details of this bike in this review to provide you with an accurate picture of what it has to offer.
Take your fat biking and bikepacking adventures up a notch and immerse yourself in the experience aboard the 2023 Trek Farley 9.6.
With its lightweight carbon frame, wide-tire clearance, and adjustable dropouts, you can count on an unbeatable ride quality as you blaze through even the toughest terrains.
Load up your gear with ease – the frame has lots of mounts that give you loads of options for customizing how you carry your stuff.
– Lightweight OCLV Mountain Carbon frame
– 197x12mm adjustable horizontal sliding dropouts
– Farley carbon fork with crown rack mounts, lower leg cage mounts, and 150x15mm thru axle
– Sram GX Eagle 12 speed drivetrain
– Sram Level TL hydraulic disc brakes provide superior stopping power
– SUNRingle Mulefut 80 SL wheelset for lightweight performance
– Tubeless ready with Bontrager Barbegazi Team Issue tires
– Multiple mounting points on frame for accessories such as racks, fenders and bottles
The Trek Farley 9.6 frame is made from lightweight, durable OCLV Mountain Carbon. With generous standover height, even taller riders can fit comfortably on the bike without worry of toe overlap issues while pedaling or cornering fast.
This also provides riders with a sense of security when descending steep sections of trail or navigating difficult obstacles like tree roots or rock gardens.
Fork and Drivetrain
The Farley 9.6 includes a Farley carbon fork for optimal control over rough terrain. It combines well with the 1×12 Sram Eagle drivetrain to give you plenty of gearing options whether climbing hills or flying down descents.
The 10-52t cassette paired with a 30t chainring provide a good range for both technical climbing and flat trail cruising without sacrificing chain retention reliability via Sram GX Eagle derailleur.
Wheelset & Tires
The Farley 9.6 comes standard with SUNRingle Mulefut 80 SL rims mated to 27.5×4.50″ Bontrager Barbegazi Team Issue, Tubeless Ready tires providing an excellent balance between riding comfort, grip, traction and cushioning across any type of surface.
The tires feature large lugs throughout the tread pattern providing great all-round performance in both dry conditions as well as wet mud and snow conditions where most other heavier biking setups can often get bogged down easily.
Bottom Line
Trek’s Farley 9.6 is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable fat bike setup that can handle anything from weekend singletrack trips up to tackling long days out in the mountains packed full off steep ascents and carrying heavy loads down rocky trails thanks to its proven performance.
Order online and have it shipped to your local dealer for final assembly!!
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Best Fat Bike: our pick of the best bikes available this year
Plough through slow sand deep snow aboard a bike with monster truck tires
Best Fat Bike available today
Fat bikes are for those who want to keep riding through hell or high water. Snow covering your local trails? No problem. Does your weekend adventure take you through a mud bog? A 5in fat bike tire will glide over the top, hardly leaving a mark. Fat bikes are also the perfect tool for those who live on the coast to rip out beach miles over hard and soft sand.
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With their monster truck tires, fat bikes are also popular for bike packing, because the high volume tires can be run at such low pressures the tires will float over just about any soft surface, and dampen vibrations from rough surfaces and square edges.
Read on for our favourite fat bike available today.
Specifications
Reasons to buy.
With some clever wordplay in the name, Pivot’s Les Fat is a rigid fat bike that comes stock with 27.5in wheels and tires, but thanks to the Swinger 2 dropout, it can adjust the chainstay length to accommodate different wheel and tyre sizes. At the front, Pivot offers headset options allow you to run 29+ wheels with a rigid fork or fat suspension forks like the Manitou Mastodon or RockShox Bluto. Slot in the 18mm cup and you can run up to a 27.5in wheel with 3.8in tires, or 26-inch wheel with 4.8in balloons.
The frame is made using Pivots hollow-core carbon fibre moulding and is backed by the brand's 10-year warranty. The Pro XT build uses a mix of Shimano’s 12-speed XT and SLX components to provide braking and shifting accuracy while saving money. Sun Ringle provides the wheels while Pivot's own carbon components make up the rest of the build kit.
Reasons to avoid
The Wazo is based around mid-fat 27.5-inch x 3.8in tires, which still provide plenty of flotation, reduces some of the rotating weight, and makes the bike feel more spritely than some of its lumbering slow 26-inch x 5in relatives. The frame is aluminium, which keeps the price and the weight low, the chassis is stable and precise when the trail transitions from snow and ice back to rocks and roots.
We really love the Wazo because it doesn’t bear the old school geometry other fat bikes do, with the bike featuring a 450mm reach in a size medium and slack (for a fat bike) 68.5-degree head angle. The bike comes stock with a Manitou Mastodon fork for a bit of extra squish and comes with Trans-X dropper post to keep you out of trouble when things get rowdy.
Trek Farley 5
Winters in Wisconsin are harsh and cold, and so it’s no surprise to see a bike rolling out of the big red barn designed to excel in snowy conditions. The bike is based around a 150mm hub and the front and a 197mm hub at the rear, allowing a 26-inch x 5in tire to plough through soft snow like an icebreaker boat, or a 27.5-inch x 4.5in tire is still massive, adds a bit of rolling speed.
Made from Trek’s Alpha Platinum Aluminium, some of the Farley's wheel and tire size adaptability is thanks to the sliding dropout, which allows riders to customize handling characteristics. Should you like the Farly to accompany you on a multi-day adventure, there are rack mounts throughout, so the bike, not your body, can carry the weight. Best of all, it comes with a dropper post.
Norco Bigfoot 2
Norco has revamped all of its bikes based around keeping the rider's weight centred between the wheels. Everything from it’s XC to Enduro bikes have grown longer, slacker and more capable, and the Bigfoot fat bike is no exception. With a 68.5-degree head angle and 440mm reach in a size medium, it’s ready to charge through snow-covered technical lines, without leaving you with brown snow pants.
Rolling on 26-inch x 4.6in Terrene Cake Eater tires, they are stud friendly if you have to contend with ice on your winter rides — Norco says the frame has clearance for 5in tires should you want to go fatter. The structure and fork are made of aluminium, and the cables are internally routed for a clean look. Norco says it chose the SRAM brakes and TranzX YSP18 130mm dropper post because they maintain performance when the temperatures plummet.
Salsa Mukluk
A Mukluk is a high soft book worn by Arctic Aboriginal people and is traditionally made of reindeer or seal skin; it’s also what Salsa calls its do-everything adventure bike. The frame is tuned to provide max comfort and is equipped with Salsa’s Alternator 2.0 Dropouts, which allow for chainstay lengths from 432-450mm, and tires from 26-inch x 5in to 29-inch x 2.3in.
The frame comes with Salsa’s Kingpin carbon fork, with two sets of three-tack bosses for bottle cages or the brand's Anything Cages. The axle to crown height is the same as a 120mm suspension fork so that you can slot in a RockShox Bluto or Manitou Mastodon should you want to soften the front end. The frame is 1x and 2x compatible, and the brand has used a 100mm threaded bb and 197mm symmetrical rear end, to keep the Q-factor manageable for riders with sensitive knees and hips.
Surly Ice Cream Truck
With modern geometry and an aggressive feel, the Surly Ice Cream Truck is a steel fat bike that is anything but boring. With steel tubing and 26-inch x 5in wheels and tires, the Ice Cream Truck is hefty on the scale, but the frame dampens vibration like…well, steel.
The fork is suspension corrected, and there are provisions for a stealth dropper post and a front derailleur if 2x is your thing. With a 68.0-degree head angle, and 427mm reach in a size medium, it rides a lot like your trail bike, but can steamroll through snow and sand; Surly even says you could jump a grizzly aboard the Ice Cream Truck if the situation arises.
Canyon Dude CF 8.0 Trail
With it’s direct to consumer sales model, Canyon can offer deals that that most other brands just can’t match, and the Dude CF 8.0 is the perfect example. For $3,000, you get a full carbon frame, Manitou Mastodon Pro, SRAM Eagle NX 12-speed drivetrain, and Shimano MT420 brakes.
The frame sees a sliding dropout and comes spec’d with DTSwiss BR 2300 80mm rims, complete with milled cutouts, which are finished in Schwalbe Jumbo Jim 4.8in tires. What’s most impressive is the weight claimed at 14.96kg.
Born and bred in Colorado, and now based in Australia, Colin comes from a ski racing background and started riding as a way to stay fit through the summer months. His father, a former European pro, convinced him to join the Colorado State University collegiate cycling team, and he hasn't stopped since. It's not often he pins on a number nowadays, and you'll likely find him in search of flowy singletrack, gravel roads and hairpin corners. Colin has worked at Bikeradar and is a regular contributor to Australian Mountain Bike and Cyclist magazines.
Rides: BMC Team Machine SLR01, Trek Top Fuel 9, Ibis Ripley
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The fat bike ain't dead | Introducing the new Trek Farley
Trek adds more mounts and a new carbon fork to its Farley fat bike
Trek has announced the release of its new Farley fat bike, featuring 27.5x4.5in tyres.
The brand has said the bike has had a full overhaul from the previous incarnation and features a new alloy frame and 42mm-offset carbon fork with rack and cage mounts.
Four versions of the Farley are available. The aluminium-framed Farley 5 and the carbon-framed Farley 9.6 will be available in the UK.
The Farley 5 is priced at £2,130 / $2,199 / €2,299, and the Farley 9.6 at £3,525 / $3,699 / €3,799.
The new Farley uses SRAM’s Universal Derailleur Hanger and a 100mm threaded bottom bracket.
Trek says the Farley should be available from mid-March.
Trek’s new Farley will be available with a carbon or aluminium frame, depending on the spec level.
These frames are also available separately, with the aluminium frameset priced at £1,390 / $1,499 / €1,499 and the carbon frame at £2,590 / $2,599 / €2,799.
It is only the aluminium frame that has received updates. The Farley 9.6 uses the same carbon frame as the previous model.
Trek says the new aluminium frame features modern tube shaping with added mounts for expedition gear. This includes top tube bento boxes, frame bag mountain the front triangle, down tube bottle or mudguard mounts, and updated rear rack mounts.
Geometry updates include a slacker head tube angle, decreasing from 69 degrees to 68.5 degrees for a size-large frame.
There is also a longer reach measurement, up from 441mmm to 460mm, as well as shorter chainstays, down from 455mm to 450mm. Both figures relate to a size large frame.
The new carbon fork features an offset of 42mm, as opposed to 51mm on the previous model.
Trek says the carbon Farley didn’t get an upgrade because it felt the bike was still a "benchmark for fast and light fat bike performance".
The maximum tyre size for the Farley is 27.5x4.5in when mounted to 100mm-wide (internal) rims.
The frame also features full internal dropper routing, enabling you to use a variety of dropper posts .
Trek Farley spec and price
Trek farley 5.
The Trek Farley 5 features Trek’s aluminium frame and new carbon fork with an aluminium steerer. SRAM’s Level brakes are specced, while MicroShift supplies an Advent X 10-speed groupset with an 11-48t cassette. There is also a TranzX dropper post with 150mm of travel.
The rims of the wheels are SUNRingle Mulefut 80 SLs with a Bontrager sealed-bearing hub.
- Fork: Carbon, 42mm offset with rack and cage mounts
- Drivetrain: MicroShift Advent X
- Brakes: SRAM Level
- Wheels: SUNRingle rims, Bontrager hubs
- Tyres: Bontrager Gnarwhal Team Issue 27.5x4.5in
- Price: £2,130 / $2,199 / €2,299
Trek Farley 7
The Trek Farley 7 uses the new aluminium frame and carbon fork. It features SRAM’s Level T brakes and GX Eagle groupset with an 11-50t cassette. A Manitou Mastodon 34 fork with 80mm of travel separates the Farley 7 from other bikes in the range for its trail focus.
- Fork: Manitou Mastodon 34, 80mm
- Drivetrain: SRAM GX Eagle
- Brakes: SRAM Level T
- Price: $2,999
Trek Farley 9
The Trek Farley 9 uses the new aluminium frame and carbon fork. It gets upgraded SRAM Level TL disc brakes and uses the same GX Eagle groupset found on the Farley 7. It also features Bontrager's Rhythm handlebars, with a 15mm rise.
- Brakes: SRAM Level TL
- Price: $3,999
Trek Farley 9.6
The Trek Farley 9.6 features a carbon frame carried over from the previous model and also has a carbon fork. SRAM's Level TL brakes are specced, alongside a GX Eagle groupset. Bontrager’s Barbegazi tyres are used over the Gnarwhal tyres on other bikes in the range.
- Tyres: Bontrager Barbegazi Team Issue 27.5x4.5in
- Price: £3,525 / $3,699 / €3,799
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Trek Farley 9.6
- AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €
Weight / M - 13.20 kg / 29.10 lbs (with tubes)
At a glance
Where to buy.
Specifications
- Frame OCLV Mountain Carbon, tapered head tube, internal derailleur & dropper post routing, 197x12mm adjustable horizontal sliding dropouts
- Fork Bontrager Haru, tapered alloy steerer, OCLV Carbon lowers, 490mm axle-to-crown, 15x150mm thru axle
- Wheel Size 27.5"
- Tires Bontrager Barbegazi Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 27.5x4.50''
- Chain SRAM GX Eagle, 12 speed
- Crank Size: S SRAM GX Eagle, DUB, 30T alloy FAT 5 ring, 170mm length Size: M, L, XL SRAM GX Eagle, DUB, 30T alloy FAT 5 ring, 175mm length
- Shifters SRAM GX Eagle, 12 speed
- Cassette SRAM Eagle XG-1275, 10-52, 12 speed
- Brakeset SRAM Level TL hydraulic disc
- Handlebar Bontrager Rhythm Comp, alloy, 31.8mm, 15mm rise, 750mm width
- Saddle Bontrager Arvada, hollow chromoly rails, 138mm width
- Seatpost Size: S TranzX JD-YSP18, 100mm travel, internal routing, 31.6mm, 361mm length Size: M TranzX JD-YSP18, 120mm travel, internal routing, 31.6mm, 403mm length
- Stem Size: S Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 60mm length Size: M
- Grips Bontrager XR Trail Elite, alloy lock-on
- Headset FSA IS-2, 1-1/8'' top, 1.5'' bottom
Q: Where to buy a 2021 Trek Farley 9.6?
The 2021 Trek Farley 9.6 may be purchased directly from Trek .
Q: How much does a 2021 Trek Farley 9.6 weigh?
A 2021 Trek Farley 9.6 weights M - 13.20 kg / 29.10 lbs (with tubes).
Q: What size wheels does the 2021 Trek Farley 9.6 have?
The 2021 Trek Farley 9.6 has 27.5" wheels.
Q: What size 2021 Trek Farley 9.6 should I get?
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Is Trek Farley 9.6 Worth Buying? [Trek Farley 9.6 Mountain Bike Review]
Table of Contents
Our review of the Trek Farley 9.6.
- Price: $3,699.99
- Frame: OCLV Mountain Carbon
- Tires: 27.5×4.50”
What we like about it: The light and unique carbon fiber frame makes the Farley 9.6 more possible, and can show its unique style in any season.
What we don’t like about it: Some people find the cables routed outside the frameless clean (I personally don’t think this has much impact).
Rating (4.6/5)
The Trek Farley series is very popular, both in terms of the manufacturing process and component configuration, and is an Internet celebrity in this price range, very sought after.
It’s hard to imagine that when we got the Trek Farley 9.6, although we were mentally prepared, it still surprised us how light it was under its heavy exterior.
The paint on the Trek Farley 9.6 is Radioactive Red to Navy to Teal Fade. The designer paints these colors on the frame, and the imaginative color mix is full of personality.
Not to mention the OCLV Mountain Carbon, which is more advanced than the aluminum frame, reduces the weight of the body, and has stronger resistance.
In addition, the Trek Farley 9.6 is also equipped with an SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain, SRAM Level TL hydraulic discs, and more. The bottom line is that the Farley 9.6 is truly the perfect companion for riders looking to train outdoors year-round and anyone who values the performance benefits of carbon fiber.
Below is our breakdown of the Trek Farley 9.6’s descending and climbing performance, key features, components, and specs. and other editions in the series. If you want to know more about the Trek Farley range, check out our review.
Learn more: Trek Farley 7 Review
Straight to the point, the first thing we’ll notice about a mountain bike is its descending capabilities. I have to say that the Trek Farley 9.6 is really a samurai on the descent road. The bike was smooth jumping, braking gracefully through the levels we set up, and even when we took it down steep curbs, it still managed to break through with ease.
In fact, we’ve been reviewing the Trek Farley 9.6 for almost four months, and it’s safe to say we’re familiar friends with the Trek Farley 9.6.
We ran our test down a rough, soft forest trail. I have to mention that I really suffered a lot on this road, because I was wearing ordinary sneakers, so I was almost supported by my companions along the way. When I was about to start riding on the Trek Farley 9.6, I was apprehensive, but when I started pedaling, I could feel myself and the Trek Farley 9.6 sticking to the ground. The Trek Farley 9.6 fat tires also provided plenty of traction and grip in the face of sudden turns. Not only that, the OCLV carbon fiber frame absorbs more vibrations, giving me a more perfect riding experience.
In addition, there is a rocky creek about 35′ on the back half of the trail that we must pass. To be honest, I was very worried, with the impact of the water, and the rocks under the water making it difficult to control the bike, I can’t imagine what would happen.
Luckily, I got through it safely and the Trek Farley 9.6 wide, super-grip Bontrager Barbegazi TLR tires completely caught my eye.
I once tried to climb the Alps on my bike, only to find out it was just my fantasy. However, maybe Trek Farley 9.6 will give me renewed hope.
We conduct the evaluation on the natural ring road. From the bottom up, the distance makes the legs tremble. However, in order to get a more intuitive evaluation, we still choose to ride upwards.
In fact, we didn’t find it difficult to ride long distances and we could still keep smiling. It sounds incredible, but it’s the truth. And we encountered a lot of slopes in the process of climbing, and the one that impressed me was probably a slope of about 55°. I adjusted the length of the seat tube through the dropper post, which raised the center of gravity, which saved me a lot of effort during the climb.
Of course, the Trek Farley 9.6’s Rapid Drive 108 rear hub also plays a role that cannot be ignored, and its timely acceleration characteristics give me smooth and timely power. I think this is really important for long climbs.
While I’m fine with its climbing, I have a bit of a gripe with the Trek Farley 9.6’s only one water bottle mounting hole. I didn’t have enough water to replenish my energy during the second half of the climb.
If you want to experience the magic of mountain biking, I really urge you to try the fun of climbing.
Main Feature
I once heard a radical statement that “a bicycle is nothing more than a combination of a frame and wheels, and the frame is the soul of a bicycle”, and when you think about it, it seems to be the case.
Speaking of the Trek Farley 9.6’s frame, I think even though it only has one paint option, the orderly combination of several colors gives the whole body a sense of design. Even people who are not interested in bicycles will stop and appreciate it when they see it.
If you look closely at our review, the Trek Farley 9.6 for under $3500 has an OCLV Mountain Carbon frame. Through our evaluation, we found that this OCLV Mountain Carbon material is not only stronger than aluminum, but even lighter than ordinary carbon fiber, but it has not abandoned its strength on this basis.
The data shows that under the same pressure, the damage to the OCLV Mountain Carbon is less, and it will not affect its riding at all, but it has caused a blow to the aluminum and standard carbon fiber frames. Not only that, but Trek has an associated warranty, but I don’t think you’ll need it (it’s really powerful).
In addition, the Farley 9.6 gets a neat finish by threading the shifter and cables through the frame. Some people think this wiring is a little less advanced though, but I don’t think it bothers me that much in the face of its high-quality frame.
Although the Trek Farley 9.6 is very good at this price, it has to be said that even the carbon fiber-framed Farley 9.6 is not compatible with the rear luggage rack. Understandable, but hopefully Trek can improve further at this point.
Regardless of the type of bike, when it comes to comfort, even a novice knows to look at geometry. So next let’s take a look at the geometry of Trek Farley 9.6.
First, we focused on the Trek Farley 9.6’s steep seat tube angle (71.5°), which allows the rider to maintain a more comfortable upright ride on less technical trails. Some people may ask if it is going uphill or downhill, will this matter? The answer is of course.
But don’t worry, the adjustable horizontal dropout makes it easy to adjust the length of the chainstays, even as small as 12 mm. Don’t underestimate the 12 mm, it can effectively lower your center of gravity. It keeps you and the tires firmly on the road for stability in the face of sharp descents.
Do you think that’s all there is to it? No, the dropper is designed to keep you smiling on more terrain. In addition, we also analyzed that the Frame reach (four sizes to choose from, the longest 61.9, the shortest 60.1) is not very different, but for riders with longer arms, this distance can be a bit crowded.
The Trek Farley 9.6 steers more quickly thanks to the shorter Offset, but the steering remains solid.
Not only that, but the Trek Farley 9.6 has a unique design with an OCLV carbon downtube. When you’re climbing rocky trails with your Trek Farley 9.6, the rocks that the wheels run over can fly into the down tube and cause damage to the bike. But at this time, you don’t have to worry, the OCLV carbon fiber down tube will ensure that the bike will not be damaged.
Based on the above analysis, I hope you get the mountain bike you want.
Components and Specifications
Sram gx eagle 1×12 drivetrain.
The Trek Farley 9.6 has a near-perfect geometry and I think its drivetrain is way ahead of other mountain bikes in its price range.
The Trek Farley 9.6 uses an SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain, which is an upgrade from the SRAM NX Eagle. The SRAM GX Eagle’s crankset uses a lighter 7000-series aluminum alloy, but the overall weight is still a bit heavier than the X01 Eagle. This is undeniable, as the SRAM GX Eagle is better value for money, and most of the extra weight is distributed over the cranks and cassette.
I have full admiration for the SRAM GX Eagle, and the Trek Farley 9.6 with no compromises and still a wide range of speed options. When I was riding on the gravel trails in the country, I was tuning and felt like the GX’s rear derailleur would allow for smoother and crisper tuning.
I think even now, a Trek Farley 9.6 SRAM GX Eagle 1×12 drivetrain is enough. If you’re looking for a mountain bike with an SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain, I suggest you take a look at the Trek Farley 9.6.
SRAM Level TL Brakes
The Trek Farley 9.6’s drivetrain is affordable and durable, but the Trek Farley 9.6’s brakes are just as good. When we reviewed the Trek Farley 9.6 and encountered a sudden emergency stop on the forest trail, the SRAM Level TL brakes not only stopped in time, but barely felt any pause, which I think is perfect for this price. brake.
I’ve seen people say that the Trek Farley 9.6 is also great for snow riding, they call the Trek Farley 9.6 a snow breaker, and it makes me really want to experience it in the snow. (It’s still hot, but I’m looking forward to it in the snow)
While the Trek Farley 9.6 is light enough (28.67 lbs) to make braking easy when going fast, in unpredictable tight turns, the SRAM Level TL hydraulic disc brakes are just as helpful. If you regularly ride country trails and natural roads, or if you regularly ride on forest trails, braking is a must, and I recommend checking out the Trek Farley 9.6.
The Trek Farley 9.6’s tires are the oversized Bontrager Barbegazi Team Issue, which makes the Trek Farley 9.6 suitable for almost any road ride. The 27.5 x 4.50″ tires give the Trek Farley 9.6 a slightly bulkier overall look. However, the design of the tubeless tire allows it to reduce a lot of weight, and the design of 120 tpi makes the tire more durable.
When going downhill, we faced mounds of large and small mounds on a flowing trail without any construction. Bontrager Barbegazi TLR tires can roll over small mounds steadily, and can easily jump over large mounds. This is because the Bontrager Barbegazi TLR tires are lighter, and the Bontrager Barbegazi TLR tires can still exert their super grip on the downhill and all kinds of slippery trails. If you need a fat tire mountain bike, look no further than the Farley 9.6 and it will surprise you.
Bontrager Haru Rigid Carbon Fork
In fact, many mountain bike forks are more technical in shape than the Trek Farley 9.6 forks, and they also have good suspension. But the Trek Farley 9.6’s front fork uses rigid carbon fiber, which is not only a lighter material, but also has a good absorption capacity for bumps, allowing the rider to maintain good performance even in the face of various pits. riding experience.
And the Bontrager Haru rigid carbon fiber front fork can play an indirect speed boosting role because of the weight reduction, so this will make the speed-seeking riders prefer to choose it.
Other Versions Trek Farley
The Trek Farley series has been well received, and this 9.6 has attracted the attention of many people. As you can see, the Trek Farley 9.6 we reviewed had an SRAM GX Eagle 1×12 drivetrain, SRAM Level TL brakes, and a Bontrager Haru rigid carbon fork. It’s a well-specified bike for year-round outdoor riding, and in my opinion, it’s a great value bike with little to no issues.
In addition, Trek Farley also provides Trek Farley 5, Trek Farley and other series, the riding experience of these two is relatively good. If you want to know more specifically, you can refer to our review of other versions of Trek Farley.
Learn more: Is Trek Farley 5 Worth Buying? [Trek Farley 5 Review]
What do we like about it?
- Bumpy terrain is better accommodated by the retractable dropper post.
- The material frame of OCLV Mountain Carbon is lighter and has a good ability to absorb shock.
- The rigid carbon fiber front fork not only has a good shock absorption effect, but also has an indirect acceleration function due to its high strength and lightweight.
- Bontrager Barbegazi TLR tires make the Trek Farley 9.6 suitable for year-round outdoor riding, can handle a variety of road conditions, and maintain effective grip.
What do we not like about it?
- On flat and smooth city roads, the speed is not as good as professional city bikes. But I think this time the Trek Farley 9.6 light body will be faster than the same series on city roads.
- There are some who feel that the choice of Trek Farley 9.6 paint color is only one, too few choices.
Comparison Chart
Trek farley 9.6 vs trek farley 7.
We can clearly see from the official website that the price difference between the Trek Farley series 9.6 and 7 is about $650. I think you might be asking what the Trek Farley 9.6’s extra money is used for.
First of all, the Trek Farley 9.6 uses an OCLV carbon fiber frame that is lighter and stronger than the platinum aluminum of the Trek Farley 5. Second, the Trek Farley 9.6 is equipped with a SRAM GX Eagle 1×12 drivetrain, and while the same range of speed options as the Trek Farley 5, the GX Eagle drivetrain has been upgraded to get more push in terms of speed.
To be honest, the Trek Farley 9.6 is worth the extra money in every way, and it’s totally fitting. If you’re looking for an affordable mountain bike, you can try out Trek Farley’s various collections and choose the one that’s right for you.
Related Reading: https://bestbikeselect.com/trek-farley-7-mountain-bike-review/
Trek Farley 9.6 vs Salsa Mukluk C XT
Over the past few months, I’ve swapped bikes with my friend Tom a lot to get a taste of the Salsa Mukluk C XT. I have to say that during the exchange ride, my experience was not as good as I thought.
First off, the Salsa Mukluk C XT doesn’t have a dropper post on a nearly $4300 bike, which really baffles me, and I did feel the Salsa Mukluk C XT’s vibrations were relatively noticeable on rocky roads during the ride.
Speaking of which, I must mention Trek’s special OCLV carbon fiber technology. Trek Farley 9.6 is not only used in the overall frame, but also added this material to the down tube to prevent the impact of flying stones and provide protection.
In addition, the configuration of the dropper post can also effectively absorb shock, allowing you to have a more comfortable riding experience on gravel roads.
Learn more : Is Salsa Mukluk Deore 11 A Good Bike? [Salsa Mukluk Deore 11 Review]
Trek Farley 9.6 vs Framed Minnesota
When I first saw the Framed Minnesota Carbon-Carbon Fork-Fat 27.5″, I was really attracted by its frame, and its top tube is a little curved, which is more convenient for small people to get on and off.
But I’m not too happy with the speed range of the Framed Minnesota Carbon-Carbon Fork-Fat 27.5″ Shimano Deore 1×10, the lack of a dropper post, and I’m a little bit complaining about it. Its fat tires are good on the climb though. Nice performance.
But the Trek Farley 9.6 is relatively expensive in terms of price, but in terms of its high-quality components, it is insignificant. OCLV carbon frame, 1×12 speed range, and SRAM Level TL brakes give me a lot of fun on my rides. I myself am willing to spend a little more money to enjoy a better experience.
Trek Farley 9.6 vs KHS 4 SEASON 5000
The KHS 4 SEASON 5000 is a hardtail bike that is priced at different accessory combinations starting at $3699 (with carbon fork). Shimano CS-M7100 1×12 transmission and 4.8” tire width fully reflect its climbing ability. But that also makes it less impressive on smooth roads.
Because there is no rear shock absorber, it does not have a good ability to absorb shocks when going downhill quickly. The carbon fiber frame slightly makes up for that, though.
Even so, I prefer the Trek Farley 9.6. Just talking about its frame, I’m all for it, not to mention the Trek Farley 9.6’s fork and dropper post and its tubeless tires. The combination of these components makes the Trek Farley 9.6 even more versatile, perfect for year-round outdoor riding.
All in all, I think the Trek Farley 9.6 at this price deserves a higher rating, both in terms of price and performance. If you want year-round outdoor riding, I recommend giving the Trek Farley 9.6 a try.
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- Rider Notes
2019 Trek Farley 9.6
A 27.5″ carbon frame rigid fat bike with high-end components. Compare the full range
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The family of the late comedian and movie actor had filed a federal lawsuit against the Wisconsin-based bike maker, claiming its fat bike named the Farley
Read Review
The Farley EX doesn't need your snow or your sand- but it'll handle it just fine - while being a dirt and rock shredder with little compromise...
Jun 2017 · Russell Eich
The most mountain bike feeling fat bike yet. Buy if you want one bike for all seasons, or an extremely stable trail bike, and aren't concerned about pure dry trail performance
Impressive rear suspension, has a very mountain bike feeling, wheelies and manuals with ease
Bluto fork overworked, small tire knobs, busted rear rim
Mar 2017 · McCoy
Traction To The Max!
Last updated July 29 Not listed for 1,727 days
IMAGES
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COMMENTS
Trek Farley 9.6 2021. Trek Farley 9.6 - Photo Credit Trekbikes.com. As the most expensive of the three options in 2021, the Trek Farley 9.6 better live up to expectations. The good news is that this carbon fat bike is one of the best options for its price, even if it is over $3000 retail. It is not for everyone, as beginner riders will not ...
Specs. Farley 5 2022 Trek. Farley 9.6 2021 Trek. Frame. Alpha Platinum Aluminium, tapered head tube, internal derailleur and dropper post routing, rack mounts, 197x12mm adjustable horizontal sliding dropouts. BB Standard: BB86/BB92, 121mm, Press Fit. Tire Clearance: 4.5".
VP-536 nylon platform. Trek Farley 5 (2021) specs compared to Trek Farley 9.6 (2021). Detailed up-do-date specifications and prices shown side by side.
Like many fat bikes, Trek's Farley 9.6 has stud-ready 4.5-inch-wide tires. However, those tires are wrapped around larger 27.5-inch rims. The larger diameter means smoother rolling and better ...
The Farley 5 weight is listed with tubes. Both of them have carbon forks. The 9.6 doesn't have lugs for a rear rack like the 5 does. The used 9.6 sounds nice (midnight blue with oil slick trim and better components) but it depends on how you feel about used bikes. A brand new bike with out the used "buyer beware" is also nice.
The Trek Farley 5 is one of the least expensive models in this review and a great value for a capable fat bike. Price aside, this bike has a solid all-around performance that is as good or better than some of the other fat bikes in this review. The Farley is reasonably lightweight and is efficient on the climbs with comfortable geometry and a short turning radius.
1207 posts · Joined 2014. #2 · Apr 3, 2019. I think the 7 is a great value. Trade out the dropper and suspension fork for Bontrager's rigid carbon for both. Probably save a couple bucks too. The 5 is a great value for an entry level fat bike too. If budget is not a huge deal, then I can't imagine you'd be mad about the 9.6.
The Farley 9.6 includes a Farley carbon fork for optimal control over rough terrain. It combines well with the 1×12 Sram Eagle drivetrain to give you plenty of gearing options whether climbing hills or flying down descents. The 10-52t cassette paired with a 30t chainring provide a good range for both technical climbing and flat trail cruising ...
OCLV Mountain Carbon, tapered head tube, internal derailleur & dropper post routing, PressFit 121 mm BB, 197x12 mm adjustable horizontal sliding dropouts. BB Standard: BB86/BB92, 121mm, Press Fit. Tire Clearance: 4.5". Color: Radioactive Red to Navy to Teal Fade. Fork.
Farley 9.6 is a capable and ready carbon fat bike for riders who want to charge through snow drifts and sand dunes. Its OCLV carbon frame keeps your ride light, while huge 4.5-inch tires keep you floating in the deep stuff. It's built up with a SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain that you can count on for more precise shifting and strong braking power ...
Model 1048712. Retailer prices may vary. Farley 9.6 is a carbon fat bike built for speed on any surface. The lightweight carbon frame, rigid carbon fork, and top-notch 1x drivetrain make it great for mountain bikers who prioritize performance in a fat bike. If you're ready to go hard through every season and love fat biking in every form, this ...
The Wazo is based around mid-fat 27.5-inch x 3.8in tires, which still provide plenty of flotation, reduces some of the rotating weight, and makes the bike feel more spritely than some of its lumbering slow 26-inch x 5in relatives. The frame is aluminium, which keeps the price and the weight low, the chassis is stable and precise when the trail ...
Trek Farley EX 9.8 review. Jun 2017 · Russell Eich. The most mountain bike feeling fat bike yet. Buy if you want one bike for all seasons, or an extremely stable trail bike, and aren't concerned about pure dry trail performance. Highs. Impressive rear suspension, has a very mountain bike feeling, wheelies and manuals with ease.
Published: March 3, 2023 at 4:42 pm. Trek has announced the release of its new Farley fat bike, featuring 27.5x4.5in tyres. The brand has said the bike has had a full overhaul from the previous ...
The Trek Farley 9.6 is the prettiest fatty on sale today... or so I believe. And in this video, we are checking out the carbon frame, parts spec, and weight ...
MTB. Specs, reviews & prices for the 2021 Trek Farley 9.6. Compare forks, shocks, wheels and other components on current and past MTBs. View and share reviews, comments and questions on mountain bikes. Huge selection of mountain bikes from brands such as Trek, Specialized, Giant, Santa Cruz, Norco and more.
A 27.5″ carbon frame rigid fat bike with high-end components. ... Chris Farley's family settles with Trek over fat bike name. Jun 2018. The family of the late comedian and movie actor had filed a federal lawsuit against the Wisconsin-based bike maker, claiming its fat bike named the Farley .
First of all, the Trek Farley 9.6 uses an OCLV carbon fiber frame that is lighter and stronger than the platinum aluminum of the Trek Farley 5. Second, the Trek Farley 9.6 is equipped with a SRAM GX Eagle 1×12 drivetrain, and while the same range of speed options as the Trek Farley 5, the GX Eagle drivetrain has been upgraded to get more push ...
Farley 9.6. Model 554682. Retailer prices may vary. Farley 9.6 is a carbon fat bike built for speed. The lightweight OCLV Mountain Carbon frame, rigid carbon fork, and SRAM 1x drivetrain make it great for mountain bikers who prioritize performance in a fat bike. If you're ready to go hard through every season and love fat biking in every form ...
Weight. 17.5" - 12.47 kg / 27.49 lbs. Weight limit. This bike has a maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider, and cargo) of 300 pounds (136 kg). We reserve the right to make changes to the product information contained on this site at any time without notice, including with respect to equipment, specifications, models ...
Trek Farley EX 9.8 review. Jun 2017 · Russell Eich. The most mountain bike feeling fat bike yet. Buy if you want one bike for all seasons, or an extremely stable trail bike, and aren't concerned about pure dry trail performance. Highs. Impressive rear suspension, has a very mountain bike feeling, wheelies and manuals with ease.