trek procaliber 9.6 review

Trek Procaliber 9.6 Review

by Ben Haworth June 11, 2023 0

Sure, you can ride the Trek Procaliber 9.6 whenever and wherever you like but the raison d’être of the Trek Procaliber is to perform between the race tape.

• Brand : Trek
• Product : Procaliber 9.6
• Price : £2,550.00
• From : trekbikes.com
• Tested by : Benji for Singletrackworld Magazine Issue 149

The other two hardtails in our ‘ Double Yer Money Hardtails ‘ test are all-rounder Traily McTrailface mountain bikes. This Trek Procaliber is decidedly not an all-rounder.

Rather than include a £2,400+ all-rounder trail hardtail, of which there are legion, we think it’s more illuminating and useful to go niche. To highlight the option of buying a very specific tool-for-the-job type of mountain bike.

The job for this Procaliber tool is cross-country racing. This is the sort of machine where the rides that aren’t actual races are called ‘training rides’.

The USP of the Trek Procaliber 9.6 is Trek’s IsoSpeed feature. First seen on Trek’s road racing bikes designed for the cobbled ways of Flanders, IsoSpeed basically detaches the seat tube from the top tube, allowing it to flex fore-aft. It’s a very modern take on ye olde soft-tail designs that did the rounds in the nineties and noughties.

Whereas those older designs typically had some sort of spring placed inside a wishbone seat stay arrangement, the Trek Procaliber has a fixing placed just in front of the seat tube and below the top tube and a wedge of elastomery material in the join. I’ll get into how it feels on the trail shortly.

The frame is made from Trek’s OCLV Mountain grade of carbon and, quite frankly, it looks really rad. The waspish black and yellow colourway is particularly pleasing. The aesthetic helps offset the relatively unexciting build kit. The own-brand finishing kit, mid-tier Shimano stuff and fairly nondescript RockShox Recon fork are all fine but hardly set the pulse racing.

In some ways all these rather uninspiring black bits actually help the bike (frame) look as great as it does. The bars are suitably cross-country narrow. The stem is similarly cross-country-tastically lengthy (80mm). The Bontrager XR2 Team Issue tyres are thrillingly bald. The MT410 brakes and the Recon fork are the two main disappointing spec choices. It just looks a bit too cost-cutting on a bike that otherwise looks so fine.

Looking at the rest of the Procaliber range you’d have to spend £3,775 to get a spec that looks suitably snazzy (Procaliber 9.8 with Fox fork, carbon wheelset, Shimano XT and so on).

The geometry of the Procaliber is on the less progressive side of things, even for a cross-country bike: steep 68.8° head angle, short 450mm reach (Large), dinky 90mm head tube length (Large). Oh and no, there is no dropper seatpost.

It can be hard to explain what makes a bike good at cross-country. It’s not just about being light and stiff. For trail riders, the geometry of cross-country race bikes is often entirely baffling. Steep head angles? Long stems? Narrow bars? Haven’t we left all that sort of stuff behind us?

The thing is, such geometry is not meant to be all-round effective. Cross-country geometry is principally meant to feel fast on climbs (the key word there being ‘feel’; racing is almost as much a mental exercise as physical). The narrow bars are arguably mainly there for aerodynamic reasons as much as anything. And if you have narrow bars (with a steep head angle) you need a lengthy stem to keep the front end from flailing madly when you’re redline drooling.

Why not put a slacker head angle on to cure everything? It’s hard to explain. The best explanation I can say is that it’s about pumping the terrain for even more speed. Cross-country races are won on anything that isn’t a descent. Descending speed is very much not important. Being fast downhill doesn’t win you races really. You can certainly lose races by being poor downhill, but you can’t win ’em. As such, the steep head angle is there to keep the front tyre contact patch nearer to you (usually a Really Bad Idea for Normal MTBing) so you can work the terrain underneath it for increased momentum.

Cross-country races are won primarily on the climbs, but the flatter and contouring stuff also matters a lot. Cross-country race geometry is a very specific system and the Trek Procaliber is more specific than most. And the Trek Procaliber is fast AF where and when it has to be. Sure, the downhills are more an exercise of holding-on rather than grinning-through, but the Procaliber’s grins can be found on race day podiums or (whisper it) Strava leaderboards.

All the boring black bits bolted to the Trek Procaliber 9.6 work fine. The fork is surprisingly active and combined with the IsoSpeed ‘rear suspension’ (when seated) actually makes for a remarkably un-punishing ride feel. There’s a reason the Procaliber is used by a lot of marathon endurance racers instead of a full-suspension bike. Also, by judicious use of the fork lockout, the Procaliber does the whole stood-up stamp-attack mode thing very well too.

I did think overall it would be even better with a dropper seatpost. Just a little one. The IsoSpeed system seems serendipitously perfect for dropper posts; droppers have zero fore-aft flex to them (unlike static seatposts) so IsoSpeed means you can run a dropper and still have a flexy perch experience.

This Trek Procaliber 9.6 is a great example of how an increase in budget can gain you access to a world of specificity. I wouldn’t recommend the Procaliber for everyone. It’s not a bike I personally would have. But if anyone is looking for an effective weapon for cross-country racing (whether real world racing or imaginary online Strava racing) then this is very probably one of the best bikes for going as hard as possible for as long as possible on the tracks and terrain that the stopwatch unsparingly demands.

It is a bike that can attack tracks with the best of them, yet it is perfectly capable of having a recovery breather on when you need one. The active fork, supple tyres and undoubtedly the IsoSpeed ‘soft-tail’ feature afford you a pleasing respite from the sheer brutality of the bike’s out-of-the-saddle efficiency of propulsion. It’s something of a Lycra-clad Jekyll and Hyde creation. Sat down, it’s comfy and polite. Stood up, it’s a freaking monster.

• Frame // OCLV Mountain Carbon
• Fork // RockShox Recon Gold RL LockOut, 100mm
• Wheels // Bontrager Kovee Comp 23
• Front tyre // Bontrager XR2 Team Issue 29×2.2
• Rear tyre // Bontrager XR2 Team Issue 29×2.2
• Chainset // Shimano MT611, 30T, 175mm
• Drivetrain // Shimano SLX/XT, 12-speed, 10–51T
• Brakes // Shimano MT410, 180/160mm
• Stem // Bontrager Rhythm Comp, 80mm, 31.8mm
• Bars // Bontrager Rhythm Comp, 750 x 15mm, 31.8mm
• Grips // Bontrager XR Trail Comp Lock-on
• Seatpost // Bontrager Comp, 31.6mm
• Saddle // Bontrager Arvada
• BB // Shimano MT500 PF92
• Size tested // L
• Sizes available // S, M, ML, L, XL, XXL
• Head angle // 68.8°
• Effective seat angle // 73.8°
• Seat tube length // 470mm
• Head tube length // 90mm
• Effective top tube // 625mm
• BB height // 60mm BB drop
• Reach // 450mm
• Chainstay // 432mm
• Wheelbase // 1,133mm
• Weight // 11.7kg

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Review Info

Orange Switch 6er. Stif Squatcher. Schwalbe Magic Mary Purple Addix front. Maxxis DHR II 3C MaxxTerra rear. Coil fan. Ebikes are not evil. I have been a writer for nigh on 20 years, a photographer for 25 years and a mountain biker for 30 years. I have written countless magazine and website features and route guides for the UK mountain bike press, most notably for the esteemed and highly regarded Singletrackworld. Although I am a Lancastrian, I freely admit that West Yorkshire is my favourite place to ride. Rarely a week goes by without me riding and exploring the South Pennines.

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2023 Trek Procaliber 9.6 Review

Are you looking for a reliable, high-performance mountain bike? With the advances in technology, finding such a mountain bike can be difficult. However, the 2023 Trek Procaliber 9.6 might just be the answer to all your needs.

The world of mountain biking is changing with each passing year, as manufacturers are investing in innovative designs and technologies. 

The Procaliber 9.6 is one of the most hardtail mountain bikes currently available on the market and has some impressive features that make it stand out from other similar models.

In this review, we take an in-depth look into all aspects of the 2023 Trek Procaliber 9.6 and provide an honest assessment of its design, performance, durability, and price – to help guide you towards making an informed decision about whether this is the right bike for you!

The Trek Procaliber 9.6 was released in 2023 and quickly rose to the top of bike aficionados’ wish list. 

This carbon frame cross country hardtail packs a punch with its versatile geometry, comfortable ride, and lightweight frame. 

Whether you are a seasoned pro or an inexperienced cross country rider, the Procaliber 9.6 is sure to meet your needs.

The 2023 Trek Procaliber 9.6 is lightweight, fast and perfect for all your bikepacking adventures. It features a durable carbon frame with an advanced geometry design that provides stability and confidence when climbing or descending.

The Shimano XT 12-Speed drivetrain provides smooth shifting performance while the RockShox Recon Gold RL, DebonAir spring fork offers up to 100mm of plush travel to ensure maximum comfort while riding.

The tubeless-ready Bontrager Kovee wheels come equipped with Boost 110/148 thru-axles for increased stiffness and strength when hitting technical sections on the trail. Finally, powerful Shimano hydraulic disc brakes provide reliable stopping power in all conditions.

– Lightweight Trek OCLV Mountain Carbon frame featuring IsoSpeed

– Advanced geometry design for added stability and confidence

– RockShox Recon Gold RL fork with up to 100mm of plush travel

– Shimano XT 12-Speed drivetrain for smooth, reliable shifting performance

– Tubeless Ready Bontrager Kovee wheelset with boost 110/148 thru axles for increased stiffness

– Powerful Shimano hydraulic disc brakes for reliable stopping power in all conditions

Frame and Design

The Procaliber 9.6 features Trek’s OCLV Carbon frame which lets you charge anywhere with impeccable responsiveness and strength.

The tapered head tube increases front-end stiffness for snappier handling during sharp corners and the RockShox Recon Gold RL 100mm fork lockout keeps the ride smooth when climbing hills.

Adding to that, there’s Boost 148 rear spacing which adds stability while cornering or going downhill by shifting your weight over a longer wheelbase – making you ride faster with more control.

Built around a race-ready geometry, riders can expect a very direct feel as they pedal along with minimal feedback all throughout their ride experience, no matter how fast they go or how technical the terrain may be.

The 68.8° head tube angle provides ample stability at speed while keeping things lively enough for those tight cornering obstacles that come your way both up and downhills.

You won’t have to worry about any slipping or dive moments as you blast though these trails either – thanks to its 72.8° seat tube angle which locks riders’ hips perfectly in place letting them efficiently transfer every bit of pedaling power on every crank rotation into kinetic energy – gaining optimal traction across virtually any surface condition.

One of the major highlights of this bike is its 1×12 Shimano XT groupset which provides sleek shifting performance with precise gear changes – allowing you to tackle steep hills more easily than ever before!

With 12 speeds ranging from 51t for tackling those slow uphill grinds, up to 10t for ripping downhill, this group ensures that whatever terrain comes along your path will be conquered in no time at all!

In terms of components, Trek has gone above and beyond when it comes down outfitting this beast with just the right parts necessary too unlock pure riding bliss – including Bontrager Kovee wheelset clothed in Bontrager XR2 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready tires plus Bontrager stem / handlebar combination coupled together with their Arvada saddle ensuring riders are posed comfortably taking on rugged terrain like never before!

All things considered, Trek has yet again crafted an absolute masterpiece that truly excels amongst it’s peers within the Trek circle without compromising quality nor reliability whilst maintaining portability & versatility as it’s core pillars – making it one of best cross country bikes money can buy! Just make sure to not miss out on being part of this perfect equation asap!

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

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• Buyers Guide

• Technical Details

Trek Procaliber 9.6 Review

• Intrigrated steering stop limiter
• top bike in this price range
• strong in the uphills
• quality frame
• great groupset for this price range
• 25 years warranty

OVERALL BIKE CHECK

The most importanten ratings of the Procaliber 9.6 ⬤ in comparison to the competitor bikes of following categorie: (Racehardtail up to 3000 €) ⬤ .

VALUE for MONEY CHECK

If you are keen on value for money, this is your chart. It shows you at a glance how many bike you get for 2499 €.

Expirience with the Trek Procaliber 9.6

best alternatives

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Trek procaliber 9.6 vs trek procaliber 9.7.

Je steiler der Winkel des Sitzrohrs ist, desto effizienter können Sie in die Pedale treten.

• Frame Procaliper
• Frame Material Carbon
• Fork RockShox Recon Gold RL, DebonAir spring, Motion Control damper, remote lockout, tapered steerer, 42mm offset, Boost110, 15mm Maxle Stealth, 100mm travel
• Spring Unit air
• Remote-Lockout yes
• Gearrange 510%
• Drivetrain 1x12
• Gear Lever Shimano SLX M7100, 12 speed
• Rear Derailleur Shimano XT M8100, long cage
• Crank Size: S, Shimano MT611, 30T steel ring, alloy spider, 52mm chainline, 170mm length; Size: M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Shimano MT611, 30T steel ring, alloy spider, 52mm chainline, 175mm length
• Cassette Shimano SLX M7100, 10-51, 12 speed
• Chain Shimano Deore M6100, 12 speed
• Brake Set Shimano hydraulic disc, MT4100 lever, MT410 caliper
• Brake Rotors 180/160
• Wheel Set Bontrager Kovee Comp 23, Tubeless Ready, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15mm thru axle
• Front Hub Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, alloy axle, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15 mm thru axle
• Rear Hub Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, alloy axle, 6-bolt, Shimano MicroSpline freehub, Boost148, 12 mm thru axle
• Tires Front Bontrager XR2 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewall, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29x2.20''
• Tires Rear Bontrager XR2 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewall, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29x2.20''
• Saddle Bontrager Arvada, hollow chromoly rails, 138mm width
• Seat Post Size: S, Bontrager Comp, 6061 alloy, 31.6mm, 8mm offset, 330mm length; Size: M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager Comp, 6061 alloy, 31.6mm, 8mm offset, 400mm length
• Stem Size: S, M, Bontrager Rhythm Comp, 31.8mm, Knock Block, 0 degree, 60mm length; Size: ML, Bontrager Rhythm Comp, 31.8mm, Knock Block, 0 degree, 70mm length; Size: L, XL, Bontrager Rhythm Comp, 31.8mm, Knock Block, 0 degree, 80mm length; Size: XXL, Bontrage
• Handle Bar Size: S, M, ML, Bontrager Comp, alloy, 31.8mm, 5mm rise, 720mm width; Size: L, XL, Bontrager Rhythm Comp, alloy, 31.8mm, 15mm rise, 750mm width; Size: XXL, Bontrager Line, alloy, 35mm, 15mm rise, 750mm width
• Handle Bar Width 750
• Head Set Knock Block Integrated, 62-degree radius, cartridge bearing, 1-1/8'' top, 1.5'' bottom

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• Procaliber 9.6

We'll take care of you. Period.

It's our mission to provide you with world-class hospitality every time you visit us online or in-store. We're always here to help you. It's the Trek way.

Free shipping and professional assembly

All bikes ordered online ship for free to your local Trek shop for professional assembly. Participating retailers will even deliver your new ride to your doorstep!

30 Day Unconditional Guarantee

If for any reason you aren't 100% happy with your trekbikes.com purchase, you can return it in like new condition within 30 days - no questions asked.

10/10 Editor's choice

"Faster with less fatigue than any other XC hardtail in test...Procaliber was still the smoothest bike here."

"What an XC race bike should be"

"Procaliber offers a more comfortable ride than a traditional hardtail. It's noticeable right away. Ready to go uphill and down with no regard for anything except stopping to get on the podium."

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Is Trek Procaliber 9.6 A Good Bike? [Trek Procaliber 9.6 Review]

Table of Contents

Trek Procaliber 9.6

• Price: $3099.99
• Frame: OCLV Mountain Carbon Fiber
• Fork: RockShox Recon Gold RL
• Gears: 1×12 speed
• Tires: 29×2.40″ (max)

What we like about it: Lightweight and strong carbon frame make for a sturdier body, while the smooth IsoSpeed splitter makes for the ultimate speed experience at every xc race.

What we don’t like: The lack of dropper post and the mediocre geometry.

Rating: (4.6/5)

As a mountain biker, you can’t have not heard of the Trek Procaliber 9.6, which is one of the most popular products among cyclocross racers, and is equipped with accessories that are tailor-made for xc racing.

Under the OCLV Mountain Carbon carbon fiber shell, the Trek Procaliber 9.6 has a lighter yet sturdier body that can handle all the surprises of mountain bike racing. Not only that, but even without the added benefit of a rear shock, the Trek procaliber 9.6 doesn’t compromise on damping and comfort.

The extra technology involved with IsoSpeed adds a few grams to the frame weight, but Trek still manages to produce the lightest bike in the test. Even if it’s only 110 grams lighter than its closest competitor, the Mondraker Chrono Carbon R, it has much more aggressive damping effectiveness.

At the same time, the wide, thick 29×2.40″ tires have the speed and ultimate stability to get you to the top of the mountain race.

Below we break down the descending and climbing performance, key features, components, and specifications of the Trek procaliber 9.6, as well as the other versions in the series. To see how it stacks up, see our article on the best mountain bikes.

The light but strong carbon fiber material gives it an advantage over aluminum alloys for racing conditions. Especially in xc races, the rolling of mud and rocks, and the piling up of hills and stones place higher demands on the bodywork. Of course, the performance of Trek procaliber 9.6 is satisfactory.

The Trek procaliber 9.6, our team’s main character, was tested on a surface that was well matched to the xc course to see if its climbing performance could meet my expectations.

We rode about 5km on a rugged two-track road in the mountains and forests, which was one of my practice tasks today. There were 16 hills with steep angles, and each climb had countless chunks of debris and thorny branches of dead vines.

My first concern was whether the Trek procaliber 9.6 tires would be able to cope with these complicated road conditions. The Bontrager XR2 tires were indeed a powerful weapon on these surfaces (120 tpi, 29×2.20”), and the strong, rough surface gave me great confidence on the ascent.

Whenever I climbed, it’s no exaggeration to say that I didn’t feel too much loss of air power, which is probably related to my years of experience on the trail.

But at the same time, I think it’s the Trek procaliber 9.6’s fault that the looser seat tube angle allows my body weight to be distributed effectively.

Meanwhile, the fast-rolling 29er wheels and RockShox Recon Gold RL suspension fork kept me extremely fast on the uneven gravel roads. I accelerated for a period of time, and the pedals gained some momentum, allowing me to keep my legs still while reaching the summit crest a few miles from the top.

Of course, we have to admit that the Trek Procaliber 9.6 is an efficient downhill sprinter. We are very fond of the longer downhill roads in off-road terrain because of the gravel and coiled roots with rhythmic vibrations on the road.

As a hardtail bike, it naturally has no rear suspension, and some might question whether its damping effectiveness will therefore become unbearable. I’d say such concerns are completely unnecessary with the Trek Procaliber 9.6.

The 100mm of front travel may not be what one would expect, but I was pleasantly surprised by the IsoSpeed fitted to the Trek Procaliber 9.6 in our actual test.

When returning along the same road, we were bound to pass through the same intersection, with the inevitable swap between uphill and downhill. I didn’t feel too much shaking on the downhill descent, instead, it was more relaxed and well within the range of my body.

The extra technology involved with the IsoSpeed adds a few grams to the frame weight, but the Trek’s dedication to the bike’s weight is still unmatched. It’s only 110 grams lighter than its closest competitor, the Mondraker Chrono Carbon R.

Inevitably, mountain riding will encounter rocky and bumpy surfaces, perhaps not a big challenge for a pro racer, and by lifting the bike we can quickly break through these obstacles. Of course, without the weight of the rear suspension, Isospeed made it easier for me to lift the bike, ensuring that the entire trip was efficient.

The bike is efficient, with enough 1×12 powershift for my road needs on different surfaces. In this respect, I have high expectations for it in the next XC races.

Main Features

Trek procaliber 9.6 frame.

The manufacture of carbon fiber may also be the choice of mountain bikes today, precisely because its high-quality and hard shell is also excellent, and the extreme toughness under the laminate also makes the body extremely light. 

 The artistic combination of transmission, brake, and locking will leave a deep impression on the appearance, and the reduction of the rear shock absorber involves simplifying the body structure, thus making it more aesthetically experienced by simple lovers. If you’re a carbon fiber lover, maybe you can try it. 

Moreover, as a feature of the Trek Procaliber 9.6, the active 5G IsoSpeed brings great simplicity to the body, with luxurious DebonAir springs and a double guarantee under the remote locking to make you feel much less fatigue during the journey. The upgraded fork gives you remote locking, more luxurious springs, and dampers that give you more control over the rough stuff. 

At the same time, the ultra-rigid direct downtube responds to responsive operation without adding additional weight, while the knock Block headset also prevents the rod from rotating inadvertently. I’m happy with that. 

Of course, like other bikes, the Procaliber 9.6 can be added to the right water bottle in the downtube area according to your preferences at each size to ensure that you have plenty of moisture during the trip. 

Geometry 

It has to be admitted that the Trek Procaliber 9.6 has not made a major breakthrough in geometry, still maintaining a decent size. 

The 68.8 head tube angle is still a good size in the ranks of the entire bike, and personally, 68-73° will be of great help to my race, and the angle that is too loose or steep may have a certain sense of obstacle to my sprint. 

Compared to the same type of off-road vehicle, the Trek Procaliber 9.6 has a relatively short front and rear wheelbase (1,103), of course, this is not absolutely right or wrong, the short wheelbase will help maintain more sensitive steering under the sharp corners, which is of great significance in my cornering overtaking.

Shimano SLX M7100

The Trek Procaliber 9.6 still has an absolute advantage in terms of transmission, and it’s Shimano SLX M7100 plays an extremely important role in your journey of more than ten kilometers.

The 1×12 spec is standard on mountain bike buggies, but for me, that may not be enough, I personally have a very sensitive perception of the speed of the buggy, I prefer it to have a higher and higher number of flywheels, of course, just for me.

But I have to admit that the Shimano SLX M7100 has a certain discount on the price, equipped with SLX using trickle technology and the advantages of XT and XTR group, smooth and precise shifting, Shimano SLX M7100 in which the position of the core, clean, smooth appearance, giving people a sense of sharpness. This may also be the innate wildness of mountain biking.

The Shimano SLX M7100 gives the Trek Procaliber 9.6 a head start in its class, so if you want to gain an edge in the XC race, give it a try.

In terms of tire size, the Trek Procaliber 9.6 originally comes with a 29×2.20”’ outfit. In terms of width, it doesn’t meet the requirements for everyday off-road riding. 

So I got in touch with the dealer and changed it to a 2.4-inch-wide tire (its maximum tire width was 2.4 inches) which was a big improvement on my ride. 

Wider and thicker tires can still maintain a tight grip as I take off from the rocky woods, and the 120tpi parameter specification can also meet the riding requirements to the maximum.  Ditching the inner tube and adopting a tubeless Bontrager will help you get the best performance out of your tires. There are no tubes to clamp, so you can run at lower pressure for better traction and get more control and a smoother, faster ride on a rugged mountain ride.

The lightweight and sturdy carbon fiber of Trek Procaliber 9.6 has reduced body quality to unprecedented standards, which is what Trek has always pursued. 

After the cancellation of the rear suspension, the mass of the body was also greatly released. At the same time, the task of damping is left to isospeed, a small part weighing up to 5 grams, while the 100mm RockShox Recon Gold RL fork with luxurious DebonAir springs and remote locking makes the bike extremely stable in the rocky woods, which greatly reduce the intense shock caused by the impact on the ground and the body during driving. 

Shimano hydraulic Disc Brake

Shimano has a unique track record in braking, with its responsive and fast braking capabilities often allowing you to achieve the ultimate in the event of emergency hazards. 

The Trek Procaliber 9.6 front and rear wheels are equipped with Shimano RT56 bolt disc brake discs to provide consistent braking force in all riding conditions. The new fastening plate construction enables fast and safe installation. 

After two days of sprint experimentation, although it was really exhausting. We found that the Shimano RT56 was able to brake more safely and efficiently on steep and rugged hills. There was some delay, it was still within the acceptable range. 

The process was thrilling, but every time I experimented with the Shimano RT56, the dual-piston braking allowed me to drive smoothly and safely to the ground, which gave me confidence in the Trek Procaliber 9.6 in the next XC race. 

Other Versions of Trek Procaliber 9.6 

For comparison, we also examined other versions of Procaliber, including Procaliber 9.5, the previous generation of Procaliber.

Also as a lightweight carbon fiber hard-tail vehicle, ISOspeed parts will not be too heavy under the equipment, and the speed and function presented on the monorail speed track are still excellent.

However, the RockShox Judy SL fork under the 1×12 drivetrain may be slightly inferior to the Trek Procaliber 9.6. At the same time, the Shimano Deore M6100 equipped with Procaliber 9.5 is a little slower than the Shimano XT M8100 in gear shifting, which is also the most intuitive feeling of riding on two bicycles these days. 

Of course, if you are a novice on the bike, perhaps such a point requirement is not as strong as you feel. You can also try Procaliber 9.5 because its price advantage is still more obvious. 

Learn More: Great Value Carbon Hardtail Bike – Trek Procaliber 9.5 Review

What do we like about it?

• Carbon fiber material presents a lightweight shell.
• The control ability of the luxurious spring damper is excellent.
• ISOPEED replaces the rear suspension to reduce body weight while increasing stability.
• The small, lightweight direct downtube makes the operation more sensitive.

What don’t we like about it?

• Expensive accessory prices.
• Not outstanding geometry.
• What is the body material of Trek Procaliber 9.6?

Trek Procaliber 9.6 is made of carbon fiber.

• How much does Procaliber9.6 cost?

The official price for Procaliber9.6 is $3099.99.

• W hat is the maximum tire size for Trek Procaliber 9.6?

The maximum size that Trek Procaliber 9.6 can accept is 29×2.40″.

Comparison Table

Trek procaliber9.6 vs scott scale 925.

The Procaliber 9.6 and the Scott Scale 925 are very similar in many ways, including a similar weight ratio, and the same carbon fiber body frame. If you are a fan of carbon fiber, you can also pay attention to it.

However, there are some differences in some aspects. Procaliber 9.6 uses carbon fiber in the selection of wheels, while Scott Scale 925 uses aluminum in terms of wheels, so the former can absorb more energy when driving on bumpy roads. A lot of vibration is used to slow down the grief caused by the collision between the earth and the body on the body.

Geometrically, the two cars still maintain a lot of similar designs. But the Procaliber 9.6 has a longer-range wheelbase, which could be controversial. Personally, I prefer the longer wheelbase presentation because I can maintain a better mass distribution during daily riding.

In terms of fork choices, the two still have very distinctive choices. Scott Scale 925 chose FOX 32 Float Rhythm Grip 3 3. I also tried to compare the two cars on the same road section, with the same front fork of 100mm Procaliber9. 6 has a better performance perhaps because of the unique isospeed. Especially since the price difference between the two cars is similar, I prefer to recommend Procaliber 9.6 to you.

Learn more ： Is the Scott Scale 940 A Great Value Hardtail Bike? [Scott Scale 940 Review]

Trek Procaliber 9.6 vs Niner AIR 9RDO2-STAR SRAM SX EAGLE 

Also under the carbon fiber exterior bracket, unlike Trek procaliber 9.6, the Niner AIR 9 RDO 2-STAR SRAM SX EAGLE has a lighter weight (10.9 kg) which also allows you to lift it with less effort when you encounter roads where you can’t bike. 

In terms of the choice of fork, the Niner AIR 9 RDO 2-STAR SRAM SX EAGLE it chose the Scott Scale 925 similar to Fox Rhythm Float 32, which still doesn’t feel as smooth as Procaliber 9.6, of course, you may not be able to feel it, but it is quite obvious to my perennial xc riders. Also as a hard-tailed bike, the Procaliber 9.6 still has ISOSPEED to make up for it without the blessing of the rear shock absorber. 

The Niner AIR 9 RDO 2-STAR SRAM SX EAGLE on brakes is an SRAM that has an easier to-follow, lightest off-road braking model on braking while having more feel and modulation, no matter what category of brakes we’re talking about. The lever feels smooth and you can slowly apply the desired braking pressure in any given situation. 

Of course, you can also make the right choice according to your own needs, I personally prefer Shimano, I enjoy the emergency brake it brings me the ultimate installation feeling.

Learn more : Is Niner AIR 9 2-STAR SRAM SX EAGLE Splendid? – [Review]

Trek Procaliber 9.6 vs Santa Cruz CHAMELEON R / AL / MX

In terms of body manufacturing materials, Santa Cruz CHAMELEON R / AL / MX did not choose the popular carbon fiber structure on the market but chose a more robust aluminum material, of course, it has a cheaper price, as well as a more maintainable body structure. Until now, there are still many people surrounding it. 

Not only that, in the choice of wheels, it is still mainly made of aluminum materials, which may not bring a light feeling to the number of cars in the bumps of the mountain, and the shock feeling brought by fox Rhythm Float 34 still has a different feeling than RockShox Recon Gold RL, and the 130mm stroke may make up for such a defect. Riding experience doesn’t make a huge difference in actual riding. 

Geometrically, Santa Cruz CHAMELEON R/AL/MX has a stronger wheelbase length (1207.8) and a relatively longer body that maintains safer stability on rugged mountainous roads.  In terms of tire selection, Santa Cruz CHAMELEON R/ AL / MX can choose a smaller (27.5″) tire size, so it compensates for the overly long steering insensitiveness of the body, not only that, but on smooth roads, lighter tires allow you to accelerate faster, especially for the last few hundred meters of the race.

Learn more ： Is Santa Cruz CHAMELEON A Good Bike? [Santa Cruz CHAMELEON Review]

Trek Procaliber 9.6 vs Canyon Lux World Cup CF 6 

Compared to the Trek Procaliber 9.6, the Canyon Lux World Cup CF 6 has a heavier body (12.1kg) and a more expensive price ($3,999), and of course, it has better accessories for a penny. 

First of all, it is not the hard-tail bike we mentioned, on the contrary, it is a full suspension off-road bike, with front and rear travel of 100mm, although such a number of strokes is not the best in its kind of full suspension model. However, it still has a more effective shock absorption system than the hardtail. 

Of course, it also means heavier body weight, which may not be so fast at speed, if the front and rear double locks, then the body will become very stiff, as far as I am concerned, I don’t like this feeling, 

In terms of geometry, because the already bulky volume has brought about a reduction in the center of gravity, it has a relatively high lift in the center of the BB, which is also within the accepted range. 

If your goal is full suspension, you still have to make more range of choices, and if your goal is only a hardtail, I believe Procaliber 9.6 will be more in line with your expectations.

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

Learn more ：

Is Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 Worth Buying? [Canyon Lux Trail CF 7 Review]

Top 10 Best Hardtail Mountain Bikes – For Different Budgets

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High Performance and High Value Meet in the Trek Procaliber 9.7

This hardtail is a lightweight and dependable mountain bike with a carbon frame and wheels.

The Takeaway: The Procaliber 9.7 is one of the best hardtail mountain bikes you can buy for less than four grand.

• OCLV Carbon frame
• Tubeless-ready carbon wheels
• Incredibly light

The tradeoff for a killer carbon frame and carbon wheels on a sub-4K bike is the drivetrain. The SRAM NX Eagle is reliable but doesn’t offer the crisp shifting of pricier component groups like Shimano XT or X01 Eagle. It’s also notably heavier than those groupsets, with most of that weight in the cassette and crankset.

IsoSpeed Decoupler

The IsoSpeed decoupler, unique to Trek, is an interesting feature. It adds vertical compliance by creating a hinge of sorts between the seat tube and the top tube, allowing the former to move independently of the latter. If you’ve never ridden a bike with this decoupler, you might be inclined to think it’s snake oil. Given that we live i n a world flush with companies touting frames with vertical compliance and lateral stiffness (with varying levels of success), I’ll forgive you that assumption. But make no mistake, this is no snake oil. The IsoSpeed adds so much compliance you can actually see the seat tube moving under you if you bounce on the saddle. To be fair, some of that flex comes from the carbon seat post, which further adds to the vertical compliance. Together they make a bike that’s surprisingly comfortable for long, hard hours of trail riding .

Fast Wheels

Tubeless-ready carbon wheels are a rare find at this price.

Remote Lockout

The RockShox Reba RL fork has a handlebar-mounted remote lockout.

XR2 Team Issue Tires

These tires are wicked fast on dry trails and hold their own in the mud.

NX Eagle Drivetrain

An 11-50 cassette and 30t chainring provide all the gearing you need.

Vertical Compliance

The IsoSpeed decoupler makes this bike comfortable over long, rough trail rides.

Initially I was put off by that soft feeling. I tested the Procaliber right on the heels of the very lively Specialized Epic Hardtail Pro . By comparison the Procaliber 9.7 felt subdued, almost boring. In early test rides, I misdiagnosed this bike as dead and lifeless. However, once I became more familiar with the Procaliber 9.7, I realized I was feeling the effect of the decoupler. The claims of vertical compliance were real. The more time I spent banging around the rough and rocky trails of my test track, the more I realized this bike was still just as lively as other hardtails, but the rough edges I was accustomed to were gone.

Procaliber Family

The Procaliber line consists of three bikes, and the 9.7 resides at the top of the list. At $2,600, the 9.6 is laced with the nicer but more expensive Shimano XT drivetrain, but the cost is balanced by cheaper alloy wheels and a RockShox Recon Gold fork (noticeable steps down from the 9.7). This bike is a super deal for anyone who already has a nice set of wheels they really like. If aluminum frames are your jam, the Procaliber 6 warrants consideration.

.css-1hhr1pq{text-align:center;font-size:1.1875rem;line-height:1.6;font-family:Charter,Charter-roboto,Charter-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;}.css-1hhr1pq em{font-style:italic;font-family:Charter,Charter-styleitalic-roboto,Charter-styleitalic-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;}.css-1hhr1pq strong{font-family:Charter,Charter-weightbold-roboto,Charter-weightbold-local,Georgia,Times,Serif;font-weight:bold;} Trek Procaliber 9.7 Details

Style XC Material Carbon Wheel Size 29-inch Fork 100mm RockShox Reba RL Drivetrain SRAM NX Eagle Cranks Truvativ Stylo 6k Eagle Dub Chainring 30t Cassette 11-50 Brakes Shimano MT500 hydraulic disc Wheels Bontrager Kovee Elite 23 Carbon Tires 2.2-inch Tubeless-ready Bontrager XR2 Team Issue Saddle Bontrager Montrose Comp Seatpost Bontrager Pro OCLV Carbon Handlebar 720mm Bontrager Race Lite Alloy Stem Bontrager Elite

Geometry That Bucks The Trend

On paper, the Procaliber 9.7 thumbs its nose at the current trend of long, low, and slack mountain bikes. A 69.5-degree head angle is as steep as you’ll find on an XC bike, half a degree steeper than the already aggressive Cannondale F-Si and a full degree steeper than Specialized’s Epic Hardtail. A slack 72-degree seat angle also runs against the grain, especially next to the aggressive 74 degrees of the Specialized. It stands in stark contrast to modern XC bikes that are trending towards slacker head angles and steeper seat angles. The reach is short (457mm), stack is low (628mm), and the bottom bracket is high (311mm).

However, it would be foolish to pass this bike over because it doesn’t conform to a trend. The slack seat angle was apparent before I even looked at the geometry because I had to slide my saddle farther forward than I’m accustomed to, as was the short reach, amplified by the narrow 720mm handlebar. After a few hours, I was comfortable on the bike, accustomed to the sharp steering that required a light touch, and riding as hard and fast around my test track as I’ve done on any other bike.

Smooth, Steady, And Fast

As I alluded to earlier, I was slow to warm up to this bike. My last tester was the Specialized Epic Hardtail Pro, which I described as lively, wild, and exciting. Compared to the Specialized , this Trek initially appeared dull and uninspiring. Like a fine wine, it took its time to open up to me. Still, there was no spark.

If the Epic Hardtail Pro is the wild affair, the Procaliber 9.7 is the safe bet, the one you invite to Thanksgiving. And costing just under two thousand dollars less, it's also a cheaper date .

It’s hard to find a fault with this bike. It’s shockingly light—my XL test sample weighed in at only 21.6 pounds. Considering the Epic Hardtail Pro tipped the scales at 21.3 pounds, benefitting from lighter SRAM X01 groupset, carbon cranks, and a carbon handlebar, you’ll see it’s very easy to drop major weight off the Trek if you're a weight weenie. Of course, the NX Eagle drivetrain doesn’t shift as smoothly as SRAM’s higher-level groupsets, but it’s a fair tradeoff for the top-flight frame and carbon hoops. This bike is everything you could ask for from a cross country hardtail: light, fast, responsive, and compliant. At $3,780, it’s not cheap, but it offers incredible value.

procaliber Procaliber 9.7

.css-1t6om3g:before{width:1.75rem;height:1.75rem;margin:0 0.625rem -0.125rem 0;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-background-size:1.25rem;background-size:1.25rem;background-color:#F8D811;color:#000;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-position:center;background-position:center;}.loaded .css-1t6om3g:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/bicycling/static/images/chevron-design-element.c42d609.svg);} Bike Reviews

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Trek Procaliber 9.6

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Weight / M - 11.34 kg / 24.99 lbs (with TLR sealant, no tubes)

At a glance

Where to buy.

Specifications

• Frame OCLV Mountain Carbon, IsoSpeed, tapered head tube, Knock Block, internal control routing, balanced post mount brake, Boost148
• Fork RockShox Recon Gold RL, DebonAir spring, Motion Control damper, remote lockout, tapered steerer, 42mm offset, Boost110, 15mm Maxle Stealth, 100mm travel
• Wheels Front: Bontrager Kovee Comp 23, Tubeless Ready, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15mm thru axle Rear: Bontrager Kovee Comp 23, Tubeless Ready, centerlock, Shimano MicroSpline freehub, Boost148, 12mm thru axle
• Wheel Size 29"
• Tires Bontrager XR2 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewall, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29x2.20''
• Chain Shimano Deore M6100, 12 speed
• Crank Size: S Shimano MT611, 30T steel ring, alloy spider, Boost (52mm chainline), 170mm length Size: M , ML , L , XL , XXL Shimano MT611, 30T steel ring, alloy spider, Boost (52mm chainline), 175mm length
• Shifters Shimano SLX M7100, 12 speed
• Brakeset Size: S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL Shimano hydraulic disc, MT4100 lever, MT410 caliper Size: S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL Shimano RT56, 180mm, 6-bolt Size: S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL Shimano hydraulic disc, MT401 lever, MT400 caliper Size: S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL Shimano RT56, 160mm, 6-bolt
• Handlebar Size: S , M , ML Bontrager Comp, alloy, 31.8mm, 5mm rise, 720mm width Size: L , XL Bontrager Comp, alloy, 31.8mm, 15mm rise, 750mm width
• Saddle Bontrager Arvada, hollow chromoly rails, 138mm width
• Seatpost Bontrager Comp, 6061 alloy, 31.6mm, 8mm offset, 400mm length
• Stem Size: S Size: M , ML
• Headset Knock Block Integrated, 62-degree radius, cartridge bearing, 1-1/8'' top, 1.5'' bottom

Q: Where to buy a 2021 Trek Procaliber 9.6?

The 2021 Trek Procaliber 9.6 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: How much does a 2021 Trek Procaliber 9.6 weigh?

A 2021 Trek Procaliber 9.6 weights M - 11.34 kg / 24.99 lbs (with TLR sealant, no tubes).

Q: What size wheels does the 2021 Trek Procaliber 9.6 have?

The 2021 Trek Procaliber 9.6 has 29" wheels.

Q: What size 2021 Trek Procaliber 9.6 should I get?

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Trek Procaliber 6 review

Can this ‘scissor’ frame cut fatigue and add speed?

Mick Kirkman

Guy Kesteven

Stiff, accurate frame; dropper and bigger-tyre friendly; Judy fork and Eagle gears; shock-shrugging IsoSpeed

IsoSpeed takes a wallop to start moving and then a while to stop; backswept bar and seat tube won’t suit all; surprisingly slow tyres

Trek introduced its unique ‘IsoSpeed’ frame technology to its alloy MTBs last year, and the Procal 6 adds 12-speed SRAM Eagle shifting and RockShox’s impressive new Judy fork to the mix.

• The Specialized Stumpjumper Evo Pro Carbon has landed
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Trek Procaliber 6 frame

The IsoSpeed system uses a small pivot to ‘decouple’ the seat tube and top tube, allowing them to articulate back and forwards independently. The bottom of the dramatically offset asymmetric seat tube is also almost completely flattened to form a leaf spring segment, to help soften blows from the trail.

Other distinctive frame details include the ‘waist’ on the head tube and the extensively shaped and tapered top tube.

There’s a cable port for a Shimano side-swing front mech in case you want to swap the single chainring for a double, plus two mounting stubs that’ll also work for a chain guide.

A seat-tube exit hole and ‘spare’ internal down-tube routing allow you to upgrade to a stealth dropper, and the 31.6mm seat tube diameter gives you a full choice of posts, compared to the limited options available in 27.2mm.

You get mounts for two bottle-cages too. The rear stays have no braces, to give max mud clearance. They end at neat Boost-width dropouts for a through-axle (with a QR lever on the end, for tool-free wheel removal/insertion), with a brake mount that bridges between the stays.

Trek Procaliber 6 kit

Despite its complex frame and low price, the Procal 6 has a good spec. The Judy Gold is smooth, well-controlled and relatively light, thanks to its full-alloy construction.

It has a through-axle for accurate tracking and a shifter-style ‘OneLoc’ remote lockout. The only downside is the plastic ‘flag’ adjuster that makes rebound adjustment crude.

Drive is provided by a full SRAM NX Eagle set-up, with an oversized DUB axle rotating in broad-spaced press-fit bearings, which maximise stiffness but can be a pain to service.

The XG-1230 cassette is heavy in weight and feel compared to Shimano, but the shifting through the 11-50t gear range is simplicity itself and gives great drive efficiency.

Brakes are the basic but utterly dependable Shimano MT400s. The rest of the kit is Bontrager, including the distinctively backswept bar.

Trek Procaliber 6 ride

That bar makes a huge difference. By sweeping your hands further back, it mimics the effect of a shorter stem, so the 90mm unit feels more like 60-70mm.

As a result, the Trek feels twitchier and lighter, and there’s less weight on the front tyre. That’s compounded by an unusually slack seat tube, which also shifts your weight backward. This is handy for popping the wheel up over obstacles or off drops, but makes the front end more ‘fussy’ in terms of wandering about and losing the line, particularly on climbs.

As for the IsoSpeed system, it definitely, visibly works. If you hit a big lump, the seat tube bulges forward and the post sways back to help you ride out the blow. That’s useful if you get caught in the saddle by a big wallop, but most of the time you’ll be up and on the pedals anyway.

The shock-absorbing advantage while you’re powering a seated gear is also tempered by obvious rebound bounce, which can continue distractingly long after the initial impact. It takes a lot to get it moving too.

Bontrager’s X2 tyres are slower and less forgiving than their looks suggest — the ride was noticeably quicker and smoother when I swapped in the Chisel’s wheels.

The Trek still gets power down firmly though, without being as bruising as the Cube, and the accurate-tracking frame and quality fork mean you can drive the front end hard, once you’re used to the bar. Dropper compatibility and the ability to fit fatter tyres give the Procal 6 more aggressive-terrain potential too.

Trek Procaliber 6 specifications and geometry

• Sizes (*tested): 13.5, 15.5, 17.5, 18.5, 19.5*, 21.5, 23in
• Weight: 12.42kg
• Frame: ‘Alpha Platinum’ aluminium alloy
• Fork: RockShox Judy Gold RL Solo Air w/ OneLoc remote, 100mm (3.9in) travel
• Chainset: SRAM NX Eagle DUB, 30t
• Bottom bracket: SRAM DUB PF92
• Cassette: SRAM XG-1230, 11-50t
• Chain: SRAM NX Eagle
• Mech: SRAM NX Eagle
• Shifters: SRAM NX Eagle (1x12)
• Hubs: Bontrager
• Axles: 15x110 Boost (f), 12x148mm Boost (r)
• Rims: Bontrager Kovee
• Spokes: 28 stainless
• Tyres: Bontrager XR2 Team Issue 29x2.2in (54mm measured)
• Wheel weight: 1.97kg (f), 2.83kg (r), inc tyres
• Stem: Bontrager Elite, 90mm
• Bar: Bontrager Comp, 720mm
• Grips: Bontrager XR Trail Comp
• Headset: FSA IS-2
• Saddle: Bontrager Arvada
• Seatpost: Bontrager rigid
• Brakes: Shimano MT400, 180/160mm rotors

Trek Procaliber 6 geometry

• Seat angle: 72°
• Head angle: 69.5°
• Chainstay: 43.5cm / 17.13"
• Seat tube: 47cm / 18.5"
• Top tube: 64cm / 25.2"
• Head tube: 10cm / 3.94"
• Fork offset: 5.1cm / 2.01"
• Trail: 8.3cm / 3.27"
• Bottom-bracket drop: 5.8cm / 2.28"
• Bottom-bracket height: 31cm / 12.2"
• Wheelbase: 113cm / 44.49"
• Stack: 60.4cm / 23.78"
• Reach: 44cm / 17.32"

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2022 Trek Procaliber 9.6

A 29″ carbon frame hardtail crosscountry bike with upper mid-range components. Compare the full range

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

Procaliber 9.6

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

Jun 2023 · Ben Haworth

Sure, you can ride the Trek Procaliber 9.6 whenever and wherever you like but the raison d’être of this bike is to perform between race tape.

Read Review

Building on it’s IsoSpeed equipped predecessor’s comfort and the modern geometry of the short-travel Supercaliber, the all-new Trek Procaliber hardtail gets all the right updates. Modern geometry, cleaner cable routing, and improved steer-ability make it faster than ever. What’s new about the 2021 Trek Procaliber? The geometry’s the biggest change you’re likely to feel. Based […]

Apr 2020 · Alan Muldoon

The Trek Procaliber 9.7 crossed our finish line first because it’s the fastest bike on test. And in XC racing, that’s all that counts.

Speed with comfort

No dropper post

This hardtail is a lightweight and dependable mountain bike with a carbon frame and wheels.

Bontrager Kovee Elite 23 Carbon, tubeless-ready wheels

Lightweight carbon frame with IsoSpeed decoupler

100mm RockShox Reba RL fork with remote lockout

Handlebar is on the narrow side

Mar 2019 · Guy Kesteven

Accurate, versatile frame with a great spec, but bar and IsoSpeed bounce won’t suit everyone

Stiff, accurate frame

Dropper and bigger-tyre friendly

Judy fork and Eagle gears

Shock-shrugging IsoSpeed

IsoSpeed takes a wallop to start moving and then a while to stop

Backswept bar and seat tube won’t suit all

Surprisingly slow tyres

Last updated 15 August Not listed for 622 days