The Cycle Chronicles

Trek Bike Serial Number Lookup

vintage trek serial number check trek serial number trek bikes serial number trek mountain bike serial number lookup

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When investing in a quality bike like Trek, you must register your bike on their website, and if you are buying a used model, you can use the same resource for due diligence to make sure the bike you buy is legit – but where do you find the Trek serial number?

To find the serial number on your Trek bike, you need to turn it upside down and let it rest on the handlebars. The bike’s serial number is marked on the underside of the frame, close to the bottom bracket. You can check the serial number using this link to the Trek website.

Trek USA offers an online service where you can look up your Trek Bike serial number or register a new one so that in the event you want to sell yours, buy another one, or yours is stolen, the bike’s relevant information is a click away- so let’s discover more on how to lookup a Trek Bike serial number.

What Information Is Contained In A Trek Bike Serial Number?

In the old days, serial numbers were used mostly to reveal basic information about a product – mostly how many had been made of a model if there was only one.

As more models were made and released, manufacturers began to use serial numbers to provide information on the model type, year of manufacture, the material used, etc. With bike manufacturers like Trek, it became useful to have serial numbers that provided more details about the bike for themselves and the customers.

Trek serial numbers contain information that includes the year of manufacture, the plant manufacturing code, which determines at which facility the bike was made, the day of the year that the bike was made and what number the bike was in the production run on that day.

What The Trek Bike Serial Numbers Mean?

From the early 90s until current, Trek has used the prefix WTU on their serial numbers, with a three-digit number following that and then a single capital letter. Then five digits for the serial number and a final letter to end.

Let’s look at an example and decode what these numbers mean.

For a Trek serial number WTU295D85467D – the serial number would be broken down as follows:

  • After WTU, 295 is the sequential date number from the beginning of the year-so 295 means this frame was made on the 295 th day of the year.
  • The 85467 would be the bike’s serial number.
  • The letter D at the end stands for the year 2009, while the letter D after the first three numbers would be the plant where the bike was made.

Based on this configuration and data recovered from a Trek recall notice, we can deduce that the Trek serial numbers use a letter at the end to denote the year of manufacture. With the serial number above, the letter D is the year 2009, and the list below would then represent the years prior and post.

So the very first piece of information on your Trek bike you can identify is the year of it’s manufacture, and you can use this table to determine what year your Trek bike was made.

From the information available, the numbers that follow the WTU and the day number of manufacture, the next letter or group of letters are thought to indicate the manufacturing plant where the bike was made.

Trek themselves aren’t very forthcoming about their serial numbers, only what has been described above. They don’t specify whether the serial number code includes the frame size or material type information.

serial number trek bikes trek bike bike registration

Vintage Trek Bike Serial Number Lookup

Trek has been in business for a long time, and many still have vintage Trek bikes dating back to the 1970s. To establish a database of serial numbers and to decode them, a survey of more than 200 Trek owners revealed how Trek serial numbers were utilised on bikes from around 1976 to before the late 1980s.

Here, the serial number configuration was LNLNLNN, where L= Letter and N=Number, so let’s look at the serial numbers and letters and what they would mean on a vintage Trek bike.

The first letter is the frame model, and the first number is the frame size. So if the serial number begins with A1, the A would represent the Frame model 210, and the one would define a 19.75″ frame.

The letter after that represents the month the frame was serialized, so A would mean January, B would be February, etc.

The second number represents the last digit of the year of serializing and is not a reference to the year model. The final three places of the serial number have letters from A through Z and numbers from 01-99.

The letters are thought to relate to the run’s designation, and the last two letters could relate to the frame number in that run. As an example, if the serial number on your Trek bike were D5F8J57, then that would tell you the following :

  • D- Frame model 510
  • 5 –  25,5″ frame size
  • F – The month of serialization would be June
  • 8 –  1978 is the year of serialization
  • J – Designating the 10 th run
  • 57 – the 57 th frame of the run

You can see the complete serial number survey with all the various models and exceptions here , so you can get some info using this reference to look up your vintage Trek bike serial number.

It seems odd that such a prolific manufacturer of arguably the world’s best bicycles offers no concrete information on the structure of its serial numbers, and while the registration and recovery service is a plus, submitting a Trek serial number on their website will give you a good idea of your bike and it’s history.

Since not every bike owner is interested in decoding their Trek serial numbers and only concerned with registering their bike in case it gets stolen or needs basic information, this could be why Trek hasn’t released detailed information on their serial numbers yet.

  • https://www.trekbikes.com/us/en_US/productRegistration/
  • https://www.vintage-trek.com/SerialNumbers_draft.htm
  • https://www.bikeforums.net/general-cycling-discussion/1209331-trek-serial-number-decoding.html

trek bikes serial number lookup

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Refried Cycles

What year is my trek bike by serial number: Decoding Serial Numbers

Cycling enthusiasts worldwide hold Trek bikes in high regard for their top-tier performance, long-lasting durability, and eye-catching designs. However, as time passes, these bicycles often lose their initial luster, making it difficult to identify their exact make and model. This is where the bike’s serial number becomes invaluable, acting as a unique code to reveal the hidden details of your trusted Trek bike.

Table of Contents

Decoding the Serial Number Enigma

At the heart of every Trek bike is its serial number, usually engraved on the underside of the bottom bracket or the rear dropout. This unique alphanumeric sequence is more than just a random set of characters; it’s the key to unlocking vital information about your bike, including its year of manufacture.

Trek Serial Number Format and Year Identification

Decoding the Serial Number Enigma

Understanding the evolution of Trek bike serial numbers is super important for correctly determining the manufacturing year of your bicycle. Trek’s serial number formats have changed over the years, reflecting the brand’s growth and development. Here’s a comprehensive look at these formats and their associated timelines:

  • Two-digit prefix (e.g., 87, 92): These serial numbers are commonly found on Trek bikes made before the 1990s. The first two digits typically indicate the year of manufacture. For example, a serial number beginning with ’87’ would signify a bike made in 1987.
  • Three-digit prefix (e.g., WTU, 999): Trek bikes produced in the 1990s and early 2000s often feature this serial number format. The first three characters can provide insights into the year and the specific day of production within that year.
  • Four-digit prefix (e.g., WTU0, WTU1): This format is prevalent in Trek bikes manufactured from the 2000s to the present day. The initial characters of the serial number give clues about the production year and the model year.

Decoding Pre-1990s Trek Bike Serial Numbers

For bikes produced before the 1990s, the serial number can be quite straightforward to interpret. The first two digits generally represent the year the bike was made. This simple decoding method allows owners of older Trek bikes to easily identify the age of their bicycles.

Deciphering 1990s-2000s Trek Bike Serial Numbers

Trek bikes from the 1990s to the early 2000s have a slightly more complex serial number system. The initial part of the serial number often indicates both the year and the day of production within that year. For example, a serial number beginning with “WTU060” would point to a bike manufactured on the 60th day of 1996.

The first digit of the serial number corresponds to the last digit of the production year, while the second and third digits represent the day of the year. This system allows for a more precise identification of the bike’s manufacturing date.

Understanding this format can be particularly helpful for Trek bike enthusiasts and collectors who wish to ascertain the exact age and production details of their bicycles from this era.

In addition to the serial number, other indicators can help determine the year of a Trek bike. These include the specific components used, paint schemes, and frame geometry, all of which evolved over time and can provide additional clues about the bike’s production period.

Unraveling 2000s-Present Trek Bike Serial Numbers

Trek’s serial number format for bikes manufactured from the 2000s onward introduces a new layer of complexity and precision. In this era, the serial numbers typically begin with a four-digit prefix. The first letter often correlates with the year of production, while the subsequent two digits denote the model year. For example, a serial number starting with “WTU1” suggests a bike made in 2011, with “1” indicating the model year.

This system allows for a more detailed understanding of the bike’s production timeline, particularly useful for newer models. It’s an super important tool for owners who want to keep track of the latest advancements in Trek’s bike technology and design.

Additional Tips for Determining Your Trek Bike’s Year

Even with a clear understanding of the serial number formats, there can be instances where determining the exact year of your Trek bike can be challenging. In such cases, the following tips can be helpful:

  • Consult the Bike’s Documentation: The original purchase documents, such as the receipt or the owner’s manual, often include the model year. This information can be a quick reference to confirm the bike’s age.
  • Contact Trek Customer Service: Trek’s customer support team has comprehensive knowledge about their product line. They can assist in identifying the year of your bike based on the serial number and other identifying features.
  • Refer to Online Resources: Various online platforms, including bike forums, Trek enthusiast websites, and databases, offer valuable insights into decoding Trek bike serial numbers. Engaging with these communities can also provide additional historical context and user experiences that might align with your own.

Leveraging Technology to Determine Bike Age

In today’s digital age, technology also plays a significant role in identifying the age of your Trek bike. Mobile applications and online tools have been developed to decode serial numbers automatically. These resources can cross-reference your bike’s serial number with extensive databases, providing instant information about your bike’s model year and other relevant details.

Maintaining Your Trek Bike’s Legacy

Maintaining Your Trek Bike's Legacy

Understanding the year of your Trek bike is more than just a matter of curiosity; it’s about preserving the legacy of a high-quality bicycle. Knowing the age and model of your bike can assist in proper maintenance, upgrades, and even resale, should you choose to part with your cycling companion.

Deciphering the serial number of your Trek bike is an intriguing journey into the history and heritage of one of the world’s most renowned bicycle manufacturers. Whether you are a seasoned cyclist or just starting, this knowledge adds a layer of depth and connection to your cycling experience. By unraveling the secrets encoded in the serial numbers, you can appreciate the craftsmanship and history of your Trek bike in new ways.

For more information on maintaining and enjoying your Trek bike, or if you’re looking to become part of the Trek family, visit our homepage at Refried Cycles for a comprehensive guide to all things cycling. Here, you’ll find an array of resources to enhance your biking journey, from expert maintenance tips to the latest in cycling gear and trends.

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About Heyden Camden

Heyden Camden is a passionate cyclist and entrepreneur who founded Refried Cycles, a beloved bike shop in San Francisco’s Castro district. He is known for his love of old bikes, his welcoming community, and his expert fixers. Today, he continues to share his passion for cycling through his blog and social media.

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Trek Bike Serial Number Decode: Unveiling the Secrets Behind Your Trusty Two-Wheeler

Introduction.

Hitting the open road on a bicycle can be an exhilarating experience. Whether you’re a casual cyclist or a passionate adventurer, having a reliable bike is essential. If you own a Trek bike, you might be curious about the secrets hidden within its serial number. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Trek bike serial numbers and decode the valuable information they hold. So, grab your helmet and get ready to uncover the mysteries of your trusty two-wheeler!

Table of Contents

What’s in a Serial Number?

Every Trek bike comes with a unique serial number. This combination of letters and numbers might seem arbitrary at first glance, but it holds important details about your bicycle. Let’s break it down and find out what each component means.

The Frame Size Revelation

The first few characters in the serial number can reveal the frame size of your Trek bike. For instance, if your serial number starts with “WTU,” it indicates that you have a bike with a standard frame size. If it starts with “WSD,” it means you own a Women’s Specific Design frame, tailored for female riders. Decoding the frame size helps ensure you have the right fit for maximum comfort and performance.

Unlocking the Production Date

The serial number also provides insight into when your Trek bike was manufactured. Trek uses a specific coding system to represent the production date. Look for the two letters that follow the frame size code. The first letter corresponds to the month, with “A” representing January, “B” for February, and so on. The second letter denotes the year, with “N” representing 2011, “P” for 2012, and so forth. By decoding these letters, you can determine the age of your bike.

Identifying the Manufacturing Location

Trek bikes are manufactured in different locations around the world. The serial number gives a clue about where your specific bike was produced. Look for the two letters after the production date. Each letter represents a specific manufacturing facility. For example, “WR” stands for Waterloo, Wisconsin, where Trek’s main headquarters are located. Knowing the manufacturing location adds an interesting backstory to your bike’s journey from factory to your doorstep.

Cracking the Model Code

The serial number is also instrumental in revealing the model of your Trek bike. After the manufacturing location letters, you’ll find a series of numbers and letters that represent the specific model code. This code includes information about the bike’s style, model year, and other specifications. By deciphering the model code, you can gain a deeper understanding of your bike’s characteristics and features .

Checking the Validity

While decoding the serial number, it’s essential to ensure its authenticity. Unfortunately, bike theft is a common occurrence, and sometimes stolen bikes are sold with altered or fake serial numbers . Trek has a dedicated website where you can verify the legitimacy of your bike’s serial number. By entering the code, you can confirm that your Trek bike is genuine and not a victim of theft.

Additional Information and Resources

Trek’s serial numbers hold a plethora of information, but there might be other details specific to your bike that aren’t covered by the general decoding process. In such cases, it’s always helpful to reach out to Trek’s customer service or consult their official website for more information. They have a wealth of resources available to assist you in unraveling any remaining mysteries about your beloved two-wheeler.

Trek Bike Serial Number Decode

Your Trek bike’s serial number is like a hidden treasure map, guiding you through the fascinating details of its origin and specifications. By

decoding the serial number, you can uncover valuable information about the frame size, production date, manufacturing location, and model of your bike. It’s not only an exciting journey but also a practical way to ensure you have the right fit and authenticity. So, next time you hop on your Trek bike, remember that its serial number holds a story waiting to be discovered.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: can i decode the serial number of any trek bike model.

A1: Yes, the decoding process is applicable to all Trek bike models as the serial number format remains consistent across their product line.

Q2: How do I find the serial number on my Trek bike?

A2: The serial number is typically located on the bottom bracket shell or the frame near the crankset. It can also be found on the bike’s original receipt or documentation.

Q3: Can I use the serial number to track my stolen Trek bike?

A3: Yes, if your Trek bike is stolen, you should report the theft to the authorities and provide them with your bike’s serial number. It can help in the recovery process.

Q4: What should I do if the serial number on my Trek bike is illegible or missing?

A4: If the serial number is illegible or missing, it’s crucial to contact Trek’s customer service. They might be able to assist you in identifying your bike using alternative methods.

Q5: Does decoding the serial number affect my Trek bike’s warranty?

A5: No, decoding the serial number doesn’t impact your Trek bike’s warranty. It’s a helpful process that provides you with valuable information about your bike without voiding any warranties.

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How Do I Tell What Year My Trek Bike Is?

Are you a proud owner of a Trek bike but can’t quite figure out what year it was manufactured? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many Trek bike enthusiasts face the same predicament.

The good news is that there are several telltale signs that can help you determine the year of your Trek bike , and in this article, we’ll guide you through the process.

So, how do you tell what year your Trek bike is? It’s a question that has puzzled many riders, but fear not, we’re here to provide you with the answers.

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just starting your biking journey, knowing the age of your Trek bike can be useful for various reasons, from understanding its value to keeping track of its maintenance schedule.

So, let’s dive in and unravel the mystery of how to tell what year your Trek bike is!

How Do I Tell What Year My Trek Bike Is

Trek Bikes

Determining the year your Trek bike was made can be somewhat challenging, especially if you don’t have any documentation or receipts. Thankfully, there are a few key indicators and methods that can help you accurately identify the year of your Trek bike.

1. Check the Serial Number

The serial number of your Trek bike is the most crucial piece of information when it comes to determining its manufacturing year. The serial number is typically engraved or stamped on the bottom bracket shell, which is the part of the bike frame where the crankset is attached.

It’s important to note that the location of the serial number may vary slightly depending on the model and year of production.

To begin your quest for determining the year of your Trek bike, locate the serial number and follow these steps:

  • Write down the serial number exactly as it appears on your bike frame .
  • Visit the official Trek Bikes website or contact Trek’s customer service department to check if they provide a serial number lookup tool. Some manufacturers, including Trek, have online databases that allow you to enter your serial number and retrieve information about your bike.
  • If there is no online lookup tool available, try reaching out to Trek’s customer service department directly. They may be able to help you determine the year of your bike by providing them with the serial number.

2. Decode the Serial Number

If you prefer a more hands-on approach, you can decode the serial number yourself, which can reveal valuable information about your Trek bike, including the manufacturing year.

The format of Trek’s serial numbers has evolved over the years, so it’s essential to understand the pattern based on the era your bike was produced. Here’s a breakdown of Trek’s serial number formats by era:

a. Pre-1993

If your Trek bike was manufactured before 1993, the serial number typically consists of a series of numbers and letters, and they don’t follow a specific pattern. In these cases, it may be more challenging to determine the exact manufacturing year.

b. 1993-1999

In this era, Trek introduced a seven-digit serial number format. To decode the serial number from this period, follow these guidelines:

  • The first letter represents the year of production. For example, “M” stands for 1993, “N” for 1994, and so on.
  • The second letter represents the month, with “A” referring to January, “B” for February, and so forth.
  • The remaining five digits represent the frame production number.

c. 2000-Present

From the year 2000 onwards, Trek implemented an alphanumeric serial number system consisting of two letters followed by a series of numbers. To decipher the serial number from this era, adhere to the following guidelines:

  • The first letter represents the month of production. For instance, “A” corresponds to January, “B” to February, and so on.
  • The second letter indicates the year, with “A” representing 2000, “B” for 2001, and so forth. However, the letters “I,” “O,” “Q,” “U,” “Z” are not used to avoid confusion with numbers.
  • The following numbers indicate the production sequence or frame number.

3. Consult Trek Bike Catalogs

Another valuable resource for determining the year of your Trek bike is consulting Trek bike catalogs. Trek has been publishing annual catalogs since the 1980s, which provide comprehensive information about their bike models, including specifications and changes made each year.

By cross-referencing your bike’s features and components with the corresponding catalog, you can narrow down the manufacturing year.

Here’s how you can find and use Trek bike catalogs:

  • Search online for Trek bike catalogs from different years. Multiple websites and online communities have compiled digitized versions of these catalogs, making them easily accessible.
  • Identify the era your bike belongs to based on its features and components.
  • Look for specific details, such as frame colors, decals, and components, in the catalog that match your bike.
  • By comparing the details, you should be able to determine the exact manufacturing year of your Trek bike.

4. Seek Expert Opinion

Sometimes, even with your best efforts, determining the exact year of your Trek bike can be challenging due to various factors. In such cases, it may be beneficial to seek the help of experts or enthusiasts who have extensive knowledge and experience with Trek bikes.

There are Trek-specific forums, online communities, and social media groups where you can share pictures and details of your bike, and experts can provide insights based on their expertise. Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance if you’re unable to determine the year of your Trek bike on your own.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I determine the year of my Trek bike?

To determine the year of your Trek bike, first, locate the serial number on the frame. The serial number can usually be found on the bottom bracket. Once you have the serial number, contact Trek customer support or use their online serial number lookup tool to get the manufacturing year.

2. Where is the serial number located on a Trek bike?

The serial number on a Trek bike is typically located on the underside of the bottom bracket shell. Check the area where the two pedal cranks join in the center of the bike’s frame. It may be stamped or engraved there.

3. Is there a specific format for Trek bike serial numbers?

Yes, Trek uses a consistent format for their bike serial numbers. The format typically consists of a series of letters and numbers. The first letter represents the production facility, while the following two numbers indicate the year of manufacture.

4. Can I determine the year of my Trek bike based on its model name or components?

In some cases, the model name or components can give you a general idea of the bike’s age. However, Trek frequently updates their designs and component specifications, so it’s not always accurate to rely solely on these factors to determine the exact year of manufacture.

5. Can I find the manufacturing year of my Trek bike using an online resource?

Yes, Trek provides an online serial number lookup tool on their official website. By entering your bike’s serial number into the tool, you can quickly find out the manufacturing year. This is especially useful if you don’t have access to the original documentation or if the serial number is difficult to read.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, determining the year of your Trek bike can be a straightforward process if you know where to look. By examining the serial number stamped on the frame, you can decode valuable information such as the manufacturing date.

Trek often uses a two-letter coding system for their bikes, with the first letter representing the month and the second letter indicating the year. This system allows you to pinpoint the exact year your bike was made.

So, the next time you find yourself wondering, “How do I tell what year my Trek bike is?” simply locate the serial number and crack the code to unveil the bike’s vintage.

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Outdoor Driving

How Do You Read a Trek Bike Serial Number

To read a Trek bike serial number, you will need to locate the serial number on the frame of the bike. The serial number is usually located on the bottom bracket of the frame. Once you have located the serial number, you will need to identify the year of manufacture for the bike. The year of manufacture is coded into the serial number.

If you’re like most cyclists, you probably don’t think much about your bike’s serial number. But if you ever need to order replacement parts or register your bike for warranty, that number can be important. Here’s a quick guide to help you decode a Trek bike serial number. The first thing to note is that Trek uses a different system for numbering their bikes than other manufacturers. Instead of starting with the production year, they use a code that indicates the frame material and size. For example, an “18” indicates an 18-inch aluminum frame, while a “19” is a 19-inch carbon frame. After the frame size code, there’s usually a letter that denotes the month of production. The following two numbers indicate the year of production, and the last four digits are the production run number within that year. So, if you see something like “18A1234,” that means it’s an 18-inch aluminum frame from January (A) of 2018 (12), and it was the 1234th bike made that year with those specifications. Knowing how to read your Trek bike serial number can come in handy if you ever need to track down replacement parts or file a warranty claim. And now you’re one step ahead when it comes time to decode those numbers!

Trek Wtu Serial Number

Trek Wtu Serial Number The Trek Wtu is a great bike for those who are looking for an entry level mountain bike. It is perfect for someone who is just starting to get into mountain biking or someone who wants a good quality bike without spending a lot of money. The Wtu has a lightweight aluminum frame and suspension fork that make it easy to maneuver on the trails. It also has 21 speeds, making it easier to find the right gear when you are climbing hills or going downhill. The Trek Wtu also comes with front and rear disc brakes, giving you more stopping power when you need it. One thing to keep in mind when purchasing a Trek Wtu is that it does not come with pedals. You will need to purchase them separately or find a model that comes with pedals included. Overall, the Trek Wtu is a great entry level mountain bike that is perfect for those just getting started in the sport.

Trek Serial Number Year

If you’re a Trek fan, then you know that the serial number on your bike can tell you what year it was made. But did you know that there’s a specific way to decode that number? Here’s how: The first two digits of the serial number indicate the production year. For example, if your bike has a serial number of 1234, it was made in 2012. The next two digits indicate the month of production, with Jan being 01 and Dec being 12. So, if your bike has a serial number of 1234, it was made in December 2012. The last four digits are simply an individual identifier for each bike produced that month – so no two bikes will have the same serial number. So there you have it – now you can tell exactly when your beloved Trek was born!

Trek Serial Number, Frame Size

When it comes to finding the perfect bike, size does matter. But, with so many different types and brands of bikes out there, how do you know what size is right for you? And once you have your dream bike, how can you be sure that it’s the real deal? With a little bit of research, you can find the answers to both these questions and more. When it comes to sizing a bike, the most important measurement is the frame size. This is the horizontal distance from the center of the bottom bracket (where the pedals attach) to the top of the seat tube. The ideal frame size for a bike depends on both your height and your inseam (the distance from your crotch to the ground). There are a few different ways that manufacturers list frame sizes, but they all basically refer to this same measurement. Once you’ve found a bike that feels comfortable and has all the features you’re looking for, it’s time to check if it’s legit. One way to do this is by looking up its serial number online. Every Trek bicycle has a unique serial number that can be used to track its history. To find yours, look for a white sticker with black numbers on either the underside of the frame near where the pedals attach or on one of dropouts (the part of frame where wheels attach). Once you have this number, head over to Trek’s website and enter it into their “Serial Number Lookup” tool. This will tell you when and where your particular bike was made as well as any other pertinent information about its history. Now that you know how to read a Trek serial number and what size frame is right for you, get out there and start pedaling!

Trek Madone Serial Number Lookup

Trek is a popular bicycle brand that offers many different models of bikes. The Madone is one of their most popular road bikes. If you need to find the serial number on your Trek Madone, there are a few places you can look. The first place to check is on the frame of the bike itself. The serial number is usually located on the bottom bracket shell or on the headtube. If you can’t find it there, try looking on the inside of one of the dropouts. If you still can’t find the serial number, your last resort is to contact Trek customer service. They should be able to help you locate it based on your bike’s model and year.

Trek Mountain Bike Serial Number Lookup

If you’re like most mountain bikers, you probably don’t think much about your bike’s serial number. But if you ever need to register your bike or make a warranty claim, that number can be important. Here’s a quick guide to help you look up your Trek mountain bike’s serial number. The first place to look for your Trek mountain bike’s serial number is on the bottom of the frame, near the crankset. If there’s no serial number there, check under the bottom bracket or on the head tube. If you still can’t find it, take a look at the rear dropouts. On some models, the serial number is stamped into one of the dropouts. Once you’ve found the serial number, write it down and keep it in a safe place. That way if you ever need it, you’ll have it handy.

How Do You Read a Trek Bike Serial Number

Credit: www.bikelockwiki.com

How Do You Decode Trek Serial Numbers?

Trek serial numbers are used to identify individual bicycles. The serial number is located on the underside of the bottom bracket. Decoding a Trek serial number can be difficult, as there is no definitive guide from Trek. However, with some basic knowledge and a little bit of research, you should be able to decode your Trek serial number and find out when your bike was made. The first step in decoding a Trek serial number is to identify the country of origin. “Made in USA” bikes will have a letter code for the month (A-L) followed by two digits for the year (09-20). For example, an “M” bike would have been made in December 2009 or 2020. If there is no letter code, then the bike was likely made in Taiwan or China. The next step is to identify the factory where the bike was made. This information can usually be found on Trek’s website under “Where We Make Our Bikes”. Once you know the factory, you can narrow down the possible production dates for your bike. If you’re still having trouble decoding your Trek serial number, there are a few other resources that might be helpful. First, try searching for your specific model on BicycleBlueBook.com – they often have detailed information about when particular models were produced. You can also try reaching out to Trek directly – their customer service team may be able to help you decode your serial number based on their records.

How Do I Tell What Year My Trek Bicycle Is?

If you’re not sure what year your Trek bicycle is, there are a few ways to find out. The most accurate way to determine the year of your Trek bike is to reference the serial number. To find the serial number on your Trek bike, look for a white or silver sticker with black lettering on either the underside of the frame near where the pedals attach, or on the back of the headtube. Once you’ve found the serial number, you can use Trek’s online tool to decode it and learn more about your bike. If you can’t find the serial number or don’t have access to a computer, another way to figure out the year of your Trek bike is by looking at certain features that changed from year to year. For example, in 1998 Trek introduced their OCLV carbon fiber frames, so if your bike has an OCLV frame it was likely made after 1998. Similarly, in 2000 Trek came out with their Fuel EX model which was one of their first full-suspension mountain bikes. So if you have a Fuel EX, it was most likely made between 2000 and 2009 whenTrek updated the model. Finally, if you know when you purchased your bike or received it as a gift, that can also be helpful in determining its age. Of course this isn’t always accurate since people often hold onto bikes for many years before passing them down or selling them, but it can give you a general idea. In short, there are a few ways that you can tell what year your Trek bicycle is. The most accurate way is by referencing the serial number using Trek’s online tool. If you can’t find the serial number or don’t have access to a computer, another way to figure out approximately when your bike was made is by looking at certain features that changed from year to year like different frame materials or models that were introduced at specific times.

Can You Tell the Year of a Bike by the Serial Number?

The answer to this question is a bit more complicated than a simple yes or no. In order to determine the year of a bike by its serial number, you need to know the manufacturer and the specific model of the bike. Each manufacturer has their own system for numbering their bikes, so there is no one standard method. However, most manufacturers include the year as part of the bike’s serial number. For example, Trek bikes have a letter code that denotes the year; “A” represents 2000, “B” represents 2001, and so on. If you can’t find any indication of the year in the serial number, your best bet is to contact the manufacturer directly and they should be able to help you out.

How Do I Look Up My Bike Serial Number?

If you’re looking to find your bike’s serial number, there are a few places you can look. The most obvious place to start is on the frame of your bike. If your bike has a straight top tube, the serial number will likely be located under the bottom bracket. If your bike has a sloped top tube, the serial number is probably located on the headtube near the stem. Another place to look for your bike’s serial number is on any stickers that may be affixed to the frame. These could be manufacturer’s stickers, dealer stickers, or even just random decorative stickers. If any of these stickers obscure theserial number, you may need to remove them in order to find it. If you still can’t find your bike’s serial number after checking these two locations, it’s possible that it was never stamped onto the frame in the first place. This isn’t terribly uncommon, especially with older bikes. In this case, you’ll likely need to consult other records in order to track down your bike’s serial number.

How To Find Model/Year Of Vintage Trek Bike By Serial Number

To conclude, in order to read a Trek bike serial number, you will need to know the model and year of the bike. The first two letters of the serial number represent the month and last two digits of the year. The next four numbers represent the production run sequence. You can use this information to help narrow down when your bike was made.

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What Year is My Trek Bike by Serial Number?

Written by  Gary Johnson / Fact checked by  Henry Speciale

what year is my trek bike by serial number

Serial numbers can be found on bicycles and components. These contain information but companies like Trek don’t readily offer a decoder. What if we’d like to know what year is my Trek bike by serial number?

Find the last letter in the serial number; this represents its year of production. D stands for 2009, while R is for 2021, and you can count what note corresponds to what year while skipping letters I and O.

Keep reading to learn more.

Table of Contents

What Year is My Trek Bike and Other Information From a Serial Number

1. how to find the serial number location, 2. serial number on trek bike and understanding the format, how to read serial numbers on vintage trek bicycles, frequently asked questions.

serial-number-location

Trek bicycle serial numbers contain some helpful information, and one of these is the year a specific bike was made. If your unit has a 13-character serial, all you have to do is look at the last character. This letter will correspond with a specific year.

D stands for 2009, and R is for 2021; you can count forward or backward to identify what other letters stand for. However, the letters I and O have been skipped to avoid confusion with numbers 0 and 1.

Based on the compiled information, units produced in 2023 should have the letter T as their last character, but this is just an inference. The same goes for A, B, and C; these have yet to be included in compiled information.

On the other hand, vintage Trek serial numbers use a different system which is apparent due to being only 6 or 7 characters long. Learn more about vintage serials below.

What is a Serial Number and Why Use It?

serial-numbers-on-trek-bikes

A serial number is a series of characters made up of numbers, letters, or a combination of both that serves as a unique identifier for specific products. These are usually printed somewhere on the body of the product it marks.

Various information may be included in a serial number, including its production date and where it was produced. Some items also include product specifications such as size. However, serial numbers are often difficult to understand and need some sort of decoding knowledge to make sense of.

For bicycles, serial numbers are important to register for warranty and other services. They also serve as insurance in case of theft.

The serial number on Trek bicycles is usually found at the same spot, whether it’s a modern bike or one that is vintage.

To check serial number on bike, turn it over and look at the underside of the frame below the bracket. This location is not exclusive to Trek, and many other bicycles have their serial here as well.

Some vintage bicycles have the print in other locations, such as under the cable guide at the bottom of the shell or the seat tube’s lower end.

where-is-the-serial-number-on-a-trek-bike

For your Trek bike serial number decode it by looking at the sequence of characters, the order is important. The series is made up of 13 characters using both letters and numbers. Below is a sample serial that is not from any specific bicycle.

Ex: WTU 123 AB 4567 R

The serial begins with WTU and any modern Trek bike serial number format begins with the same three letters. The next sequence is a series of three numbers corresponding to the specific day a bicycle is produced. This means that the sample code indicates that it was built on the 123rd day of that year.

The next couple of letters is its manufacturing plant code. However, we do not know how to identify which facility is represented by these codes. All we can tell is if two bikes came from the same factory.

The second numerical sequence is believed to be the bicycle’s ID code and is probably used to differentiate an individual bike from all others. Finally, the lone letter at the end represents its year of production, as we’ve already tackled above.

trek-bicycle-serial-number-chart

Trek bikes have been made for a long time and a vintage Trek serial number works differently from modern ones. They do not begin with WTU and are much shorter. However, they are hard to decode because the format changed multiple times through the years.

Bicycles produced from 1976 to 1980 have been well-documented and this serial system is well-understood. They are made up of seven characters beginning with a letter and ending with two numbers using an LNLNLNN format where L stands for a letter and N for a number.

The first letter represents the model, the first number is its frame size, the second letter goes from A to L each representing a month, and the second number is the last digit of the year of production. The last three characters are the run designation followed by the frame number within that specified run.

Below is a chart for the first letter and the first number of serials used during the period.

Bikes produced in other years make use of other systems, but the use of the seven-character serial reached up to around 1999, although six-character serials were also used at some point.

If your vintage bike is not covered by the formats we covered here, you can check out the Trek bicycle serial number chart resource here. Unfortunately, information for specific batches is still lacking, but they also have valuable information for cross-referencing, such as the colors of the models by year.

what-year-is-my-trek-bike

How do I register my Trek bike?

Head to Trek’s official bike registration page; you’ll find an input field where you can type in your serial number. You can also search bike’s serial number on this page.

Type in the serial without any spaces in between to register your bicycle into Trek’s official database. Read about where the serial number is located above.

Why is it important to register?

The two main reasons to register are to receive various support from Trek and for security in case of loss or theft. While Trek does not clarify how they can help, registering helps, so you may be able to contact them for help in such situations via

Registering the bike will also help prove ownership in case the bicycle is taken into police custody. Warranty is only available for registered units, and a Trek mountain bike could use it if you frequently ride rough terrain.

As for support, you will be able to obtain valuable information via model lookup only if you are registered. They also mention that older models can still be registered.

Why does my bike not have a serial number?

Some vintage bikes do not have serial numbers at all. These were some that were produced from 1976 to the 1980s. Other early models have the number elsewhere, such as beneath the cable guide near the bracket shell.

It’s also possible that the print has worn down over time or that the frame was repainted, resulting in the serial no longer being visible.

What year is my Trek bike by serial number? Now you know where is the serial number on a Trek bike and how to read it. After reading this, make sure to register your bicycle if you haven’t already.

Are you familiar with serial numbers for other bicycle brands? Are they different in how they work and are they as useful as those from Trek’s bikes? Tell us about them in the comments section below.

Always ride safely.

Gary-Johnson 

“I ride my bike to work for years, but is that enough? Our carelessness towards our surroundings has taken a toll on the environment. And now, everyone is responsible for changes; even the most minor contribution is counted. With this hope and spirit, I started with my partner to establish Biketoworkday to help more individuals commute to their work sites on their bikes.”

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identify bike by serial number

Can You Identify Bike by Serial Number?

Bike serial numbers are used as a unique identifier for ownership tracking – but did you know that they can even tell you certain details about the make and model of your bike, too? In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at how to identify a bike by serial number.

Your bike’s serial number is typically located under the bottom bracket . However, there are exceptions to this rule. Read on to find out more.

Raleigh bike serial number

Physical clues: what to look for, get a bike insurance., can you track down your bike yourself, what is a bike’s serial number.

The most important feature of your bike is its serial number. It is also sometimes referred to as a frame number . Each bike has a unique serial number engraved, and it serves as its unique ID. These digits are the key to identifying your bike.

The bike’s serial number can have between six and ten numbers assigned by the manufacturer, whether mountain bikes, road bikes, or BMX bikes.

Why is a Bike Serial Number Important?

Bike theft is on the rise , and more than 2 million bikes are stolen in North America yearly. This problem has been growing during the coronavirus pandemic when more people are dependent on bicycles as their main mode of transportation.

Shockingly, only 20% of bicycle owners know their bike’s serial number. With this percentage, no wonder why only 5% of wonders get their stolen or lost bikes back. Police say, your best bet for recovering your bike is by its serial number along with its make, model, receipt, images, or any proof of ownership. 

Bike serial numbers can serve you in many ways. It doesn’t only serve as an ID, and it is also useful for warranty purposes . Most bicycles have warranty protection against manufacturing defects in materials or make. You can return your bike as long as you have the bike serial number and some important proof of purchase like an email or paper receipt.

Also, if you need to take your bike in for repairs , the mechanic can better figure out what bike parts are compatible with yours, as long as you have the bike serial number. 

Where to Find Your Bike’s Serial Number

Bike serial numbers are usually found under the bottom bracket, where the pedals or pedal cranks meet. To find your own, turn yourself upside down and look under the bottom bracket!

What happens if you didn’t find one? Don’t worry. There could be other places where you can find the serial number engraved. The most common serial number locations are:

  • headset or head tube
  • top of the crank
  • underside of crank
  • seat tube next to crank or seat downtube

where to find bike serial number

There’s no standardization method for identifying bikes by serial numbers. It could sometimes make you wonder if it’s the serial number you’re looking at or just a random number. The digits may represent the month, year, or model code – it may vary depending on the brand and manufacturer. 

The location of your bike’s serial number would also depend on its age. For newer bikes, it’s located on the underside of the bottom bracket shell or near the cranks. Also, check your head tube and seat tube. But bikes built before the mid-1999 will have the serial number stamped on the drive-side dropout. You may need to remove the wheel to see it.

Remember that most bikes come with a serial number, but not all of them. This is the case for hand-made, vintage bicycles- they don’t have bike serial numbers at all! Or it could be that the bike is worn, and the number is no longer readable. In this case, your best option is to register your bicycle in a bike organization, to be covered later.

Here’s an example of what a serial number under the bottom bracket looks like:

bike serial number underside of crank

How to Decode Your Bike Serial Number

The year of production is often found at the start or middle points in bike serial numbers for many brands. For example, Haro bike serial number starts with a letter indicating the manufacturing month, followed by two numbers indicating the manufacturing year.

Then you’ll see various characters associated with the bike’s product code, model type, model number, or batch code. The arrangement depends on the bike manufacturer. So we recommend using a bike serial number decoder. The easiest way to read your bike serial number is to search the internet using the format “ [bike brand] bike serial number decoder.”

How to Decode Serial Number of Popular Bike Brands

Trek bike serial number.

  • Location : underside of bike frame
  • Commonly starts with “WTU” followed by a string of letters and numbers
  • Useful link : Trek bike registration

Cannondale bike serial number

  • Location : under the bottom bracket
  • 2000-2001 models: first two letters indicate manufacturing year and month
  • 2002-current models: first letters indicate manufacturing year
  • Useful link: Vintage Cannondale serial numbers

Specialized bike serial number

  • Note : Specialized serial number does not indicate size, model, or manufacturing year of the bike. 
  • Location(s): underside of the top tube and/or down tube, underside of bike, under the bottom bracket
  • Typically starts with “WSBC,” “WUD,” “STT,” or “STE”
  • To find the year: find your bike manually via the photos in the Specialized online archive .

Schwinn bike serial number

  • Location(s): head tube, below the bottom bracket, rear drop-out
  • The model number and manufacturing date code can be found on a silver sticker on the bike’s frame – by the non-chain side crank arm above the pedals
  • Useful link : Schwinn 1960-1979 models serial number

Santa Cruz bike serial number

  • Location(s): above/under the bottom bracket, under the swing arm after removing rear wheel
  • Useful links: Santa Cruz FAQ on serial number , Santa Cruz bike registration

Mongoose bike serial number

  • Location(s): behind the head tube, under the bottom bracket
  • Useful links: Vintage Mongoose serial numbers , Mongoose bike registration

Diamondback bike serial number

  • Location : underside of the frame where the pedals and crank arms meet
  • How to decode (typical): first 2-3 letters (frame factory), next 2-4 numbers (month and year), final 4 numbers (product sequence)

Haro bike serial number

  • Location(s): under the bottom bracket, rear dropouts, near seat tube
  • How to decode: first 2-3 letters (model), next number (year)
  • Useful links: Haro serial number , Haro bike registration

Mafiabikes bike serial number

  • Location : underside of the bottom bracket
  • Useful link: Mafiabikes owner’s manual

Giant bike serial number

  • Location(s): underside of frame, under bottom bracket
  • Typically starts with “GM,” followed by 6-10 numbers
  • Useful link: Giant bike registration
  • Location(s): under bottom bracket, front/side of seat lug
  • Typically starts with a number (last digit of year production), followed by letter (month), followed by numbers
  • Useful links: Raleigh bike registration , Raleigh serial numbers and charts

What’s Next?

Once you find your bike serial number, you can keep that for records. Take a snapshot of the bike’s serial number and key details such as make and model. Record some copies, email them to yourself and upload them to your google drive or cloud for backup. And make sure that you have it handy in case you need it. Note where it was located – bottom bracket, head tube, or seat tube.

Taking a photo of your bike is also a must. Remember that there are bikes similar to yours- same color, wheels, and model. Some cyclists take pictures of EVERY part of it or take a selfie with their bike.

You can mark your frame with your postcode in two separate locations if possible, one of which should be kept hidden. Yes, seriously- when it comes to bicycle protection, you can’t overdo it.

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How to Register Your Bike

We drive registered cars, but only a few try to bike register. Bike registration is a low-cost way to protect your two-wheeler. There is no reason why you shouldn’t take extra precautions. 

Bike theft typically happens because most bike owners don’t register their bikes. Bike registration will lessen the possibility of bike theft. It will also ensure that thieves will have a hard time selling your bike if it’s stolen. 

Register your bike in a bike serial number database . Bike organizations such as Project 529, bikeindex.org (USA), and bikeregister.com (for the UK) will provide a comprehensive tool to store critical data like serial numbers. They also assist you in reporting stolen bikes. These organizations are recognized by the police force. These bike registries increase the traceability of bikes by allowing any registered cycle to be identified by police if it is stolen and recovered.  

You also have the choice to register your bike with the police department . Some U.S. cities like Chicago, New York, and Milwaukee offer this service. To register, search for a police station that takes care of this process in your city or state. Registration typically requires your bike manufacturer and model, as well as your unique serial number. Register now, and don’t worry because it’s free.

trek bikes serial number lookup

How to Register a Bike Without a Serial Number

You can still register your bicycle at Project 259 , even without a serial number.

Also, if you’re around Southern California, you can visit the University of Southern California. They will provide you with tools to engrave your driver’s license number on your frame. They’ll use this as an alternate identification number to the manufacturer’s serial number.

Once you have registered your bike, you will receive a kit with a weather-resistant- sticker similar to an actual bike serial number. You can stick your serial number wherever your preferred location is on the bicycle frame, and you can use that to track your bicycle if it ever gets stolen.

You can also use other methods for bike identification. How about snapping some detailed photos of your bike? Capture unique features, stickers, or even scratches. These can be super helpful if you ever need to prove ownership.

trek bikes serial number lookup

Bike Apps for Serial Number Registration

Bikeregister.com launched a mobile app in 2019. A lot of people are registering serial numbers on the app each day: the local police, retailers, and some citizens. There are over 1,000 searches made on BikeRegister through their website and the mobile app. 

An estimated 900,000 bikes have already been registered on the secure database. The app is being used by over 23 Police Forces on thousands of Police-issued mobile devices. They use the app to check bikes using your bicycle serial number or frame number. 

Members of the public and retailers can now download the app on Android devices through the Google Play Store. The app allows you to set up your BikeRegister account, register your bike details, and upload your bike images. 

This app will take less than 6 minutes to register your bike details. So if your bike ever gets stolen, you can report it using the organization registry to alert other registry users in a 10-mile radius. 

How to Identify Bike by Serial Number

You can visit bikeindex.org or bikeregister.com to search for your bike serial number (also called bike frame number). 

These websites offer two options in searching for your stolen or lost bike; one is by description, and another is by serial number or frame number. It doesn’t matter which option you want to use, but we recommend using the serial code finder because it’s more accurate in narrowing down your search result. 

In searching for your bike using the serial number, punch your bike serial number in the search bar and wait for the result to pop up.

How to Spot a Stolen Bike

There’s nothing wrong with buying a second-hand bike. There are great bargains to be found online. Be careful purchasing online because a few years ago, a report confirmed that websites like Craigslist and eBay could be unintentionally selling stolen bicycles. 

Check the Serial Number

First and foremost, ask for the bike’s serial number and run it through a bike registry app. No serial number or the seller is hesitant to give it? Red flag!

Look for things like scratched-off serial numbers or multiple paint layers. These are often signs that someone is trying to disguise the bike’s true identity. Trust your gut—if something feels off, it probably is.

Here are a few other things you can do to check if a used bike is stolen :

  • Check for proof of ownership.
  • Research the seller.
  • Check the listing.
  • Consider the bike’s price.

Additional Bike Security Tips

Use a lock..

Make sure to secure your bike with an adequate lock . U-locks, such as Kryptonite , are recommended. You can also buy a 6-foot cable or chain (the thicker, the better) used with a U-lock. It will allow you to lock your bike to any rack and secure your wheels.

Find a good parking spot.

Park in a secure parking facility such as a bike rack. Also, when parking your bike, don’t obstruct the walkways, railings, doorways, and ramps intended for pedestrian use.

Use a GPS tracker.

Your bike is among one of your most valuable possessions. Some avid cyclists would even catch a grenade for their bikes. Protecting your bike is a top priority, and that means buying all the accessories needed to secure it- like bike locks. But sometimes locks are no longer enough to protect it. 

We suggest you get a GPS tracker . It doubles your bicycle’s protection from thieves. There are bike shops like Spybike that offer gadgets for bicycle protection. Their products will look like a standard bike component with a concealed tracking system that transmits a GPS signal. 

It has a vibration sensor that initiates the tracking system. This tracking system sends the owner an SMS alert containing the bike’s coordinates every 20 seconds. You can also invest in a bike alarm. It can detect when a bike is being jostled. It sets off a signal and sends a message to your smartphone. Sounds cool, right?

Read also: Best Cheap Bike Computers in 2024 (Buying Guide & Reviews)

Bicycle insurance isn’t compulsory, but it is a small price to spend to protect your bicycle, especially if it’s expensive. Your insurance will serve as a safety net in case of theft, and it will also help in case of traffic accidents. Remember that your bike insurance will only cover bikes stolen from your home or garage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do e-bikes have serial numbers.

Yes, electric bikes have serial numbers, although your e-bike serial number is more commonly known as the VIN or the Vehicle ID number. Serial numbers of e-bikes could be in a similar place as regular bikes – bike parts like the bottom bracket, head tube, and seat tube.

It’s okay to track down your bike on your own. But it will be safer to identify your bike serial number online and work with the local police.

Final Thoughts

Bike companies often register their bikes with local police departments. So if your bike is stolen and later recovered by police, they can identify it using your bike serial number.

If you’re ever in doubt about where your bike’s serial number is located, take it to your local bicycle shop, and they should be able to help you out.

About The Author

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Antonnette Baker

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Hey there! We’re Antonnette and Mario, a sister-and-brother tandem who love bikes and biking.

We and our team use our extensive knowledge about bicycles to help you have a great riding experience.

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Find Your Bike Make, Model and Serial Number!

Table of Contents

Find Your Bike Make, Model and Serial Number

How do you find your bike’s model year? What is a bicycle serial number and how does it even work? Well, in this article,  we’ll discuss what a frame number is and how you can find it. We’ll also cover ways in which riders can discover the make, model and serial number of their bike, even if it’s from the ’60s. 

If your new bicycle develops a fault early into its purchase, it’s best to contact the manufacturer for repairs (or a replacement) instead of taking it to a local mechanic. Almost all bicycles (electric and regular) come with warranty periods, however some manufacturers require that customers provide certain details about their bicycle (e.g. serial number, model name, etc) before delivering on the product’s warranty. 

Not having your bicycle’s serial number or model name & year could prevent you from claiming the manufacturer’s warranty. So, how do you get all of this information back after losing it (or not even knowing it existed in the first place)?

Also Related:

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What Is a Bike Model Number?

A bicycle’s model number or serial number is a unique code engraved onto the bike’s frame by the manufacturer for identification purposes. In most cases a bike’s serial number will be a string of numeric digits, however, it’s not uncommon to find a bicycle with an alphanumeric code as its model number.

Find Your Bike Make, Model and Serial Number

Photo Credited by Wikipedia Commons

This model number usually indicates the bike’s make year and/ month. Some bicycle manufacturers will even engrave identical elements onto different bikes of the same model. This helps distinguish one model from others designed by the same manufacturer.

How Can I Tell What Model My Bike Is?

Determining the model of your bicycle, whether regular or electric, will depend on the amount of information available to you at any given time. The process is easy if you know the manufacturer’s name and the bike’s serial number.

With that info, you can figure out what model your bike is, get extra guidance from a local bike shop, or just reach out to the manufacturer directly. For example, Elliptigo (a manufacturer of elliptical bicycles) users can easily identify the model of their bicycles by matching certain elements in their serial numbers with predefined model identifiers.

Find Your bike Make, Model and Serial Number

Photo Credited by Elliptigo

So, for instance, if your Elliptigo bike has the numbers 1, 4, and 8, then you probably own an 8C model. Another good example is Trek’s coding system . While Trek frame numbers don’t exactly help riders identify their bike’s model, it does provide a little insight into what day and year the unit was manufactured. 

The problem, however, is trying to identify your bike’s model using just its serial number. You see, bicycle serial numbers don’t work like vehicle identification numbers .

The former acts as a way of keeping record of every bicycle designed by a particular manufacturer (almost because some vintage bicycles don’t come with serial numbers). They usually don’t have a standard format. In fact, bicycle manufacturers have the liberty to designate whatever digits they feel should be assigned to a particular unit.

This is unlike VINs that act as a vehicle’s unique fingerprint. So, if you’re trying to figure out your bike’s model — and all you have is the serial number — your best bet would be to post images of said bicycle along with its serial number to a bike forum .

Chances are someone who’s familiar with the brand — and the model — will stumble upon your post and give you detailed information on your bicycle.

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How Do I Know My Bicycle Model Year?

Finding out the production date of your bicycle can be very frustrating – especially if you own an older-generation bike. In this section, we’ll discuss a few tips that riders can use to discover the true age of their bikes.

Find Your bike Make, Model and Serial Number

Photo Credited by santacruzbicycles

1) Reach Out to Cycling Enthusiasts

These could be cyclist friends, local bike shop employees (or owners), or even random people on the internet (on forums like Cycle Chat and Bike Forums ). Just ensure that you’re providing as much information about the bicycle as possible (these include frame properties, images of specific parts, etc.).

2) Identifying Specific Components on the Bike

Like every one of man’s inventions, bicycles have evolved over the years. As newer innovations are introduced, older technologies fade away and eventually die out. 

This law also applies to bicycle components. You can use the parts on a bike to determine or predict what year it was made.

For example, if you own a classic-looking bicycle with index shifters, chances are your two-wheeler was made after the era of friction-shifting bicycles (1985 – current day). This method might not help you identify the exact model year of your bicycle, but you should start getting a more precise estimate as you date other components on the bike.

3) Use the Date Code in the Serial Number

Some brands include the manufacture date of their bikes in the product’s serial number. This information is usually encoded and will oftentimes be represented by a single letter.

We gave an example of Trek encoding the day and year of manufacture into each of their modern bikes’ serial numbers. The last letter in a Trek bike’s serial number represents the production year.

Find Your Bike Make, Model and Serial Number

Photo Credited by Trek bikes

In the image above, the letter “C” represents the bike’s production year.

Riders can decode this letter on Vintage Trek under the “MID 90s 3-PART SERIAL NUMBERS”  section. Another popular bike manufacturer that does this is Schwinn.

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Can You Look Up a Bike Model by Serial Number?

It is almost impossible to look up a bike’s model using just its serial number. As mentioned earlier, there is no standard format for encoding bicycle serial numbers.

Basically, it’s just a string of numeric and alphabetic characters that differentiate one bicycle manufactured by a particular brand from others made by the same brand. It’s not like a VIN that includes the car’s country of origin, manufacturer code, plant code, serial number, security code, etc.

What Does a Bike Serial Number Look Like and How Do You Read It?

A bicycle’s (or electric bicycle ) serial number is a string of numeric and alphabetic characters. 

They can be anywhere between six and ten digits in length and would usually include important information about the bike. Things like model code, production date, line number, etc.

For example, GT BMX bicycles built during the early 2000’s were often engraved with 10-character serial numbers which contained five letters (usually the first five characters).

Out of these letters, the last two were used to indicate the bike’s production year and month respectively. Below are tables of the letters used and what each represented. 

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So, if your GT BMX bike’s serial number is HTHRG46826, the letters “R” and “G” indicate that the bicycle was manufactured in July, 2008.

To read the information contained in a bike’s frame number, you’d first need to understand what each individual character stands for. Visit your bicycle manufacturer’s official website to decode your unit’s serial number.

If you’re unable to find any useful resource on the brand website, you can contact their support team or run a quick Google (or YouTube) search on how to decode your bicycle’s serial number.

What Can a Serial Number Tell You?

In some cases, serial numbers will tell a bike’s model year, the exact day of the year that it was manufactured, its batch number, etc. However, this isn’t always the case as most serial numbers are just digits engraved onto the frames of bicycles for easy identification.

Find Your bike Make, Model and Serial Number

Photo Credited by  Radpowerbikes

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Is the Model Number the Same as the Serial Number?

Generally speaking, both model and serial numbers mean the same thing. The only difference is a model number might include certain elements that are exclusive to bicycles of the same model.

For example, Aventon Level serial numbers might all begin with the letter “L”.

How Can I Tell if a Bike Serial Number Is Stolen?

Are you looking to purchase a second-hand bicycle but don’t want to end up with stolen goods? You can tell if a bicycle is stolen by running the serial number on databases like Bike Index and Bike Register . 

If the bike is registered as stolen, avoid it (maybe even inform the police).  Also if you’re unable to locate the bike’s serial number because it has been filed or covered with a thick film of paint, it’s probably stolen.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a bike model number.

A bicycle’s model number or serial number is a unique code engraved onto the bike’s frame by the manufacturer for identification purposes. It usually indicates the bike’s make year and/or month and can be a string of numeric digits or an alphanumeric code.

How can I determine the model of my bike?

To determine the model of your bicycle, you can:

  • Use the manufacturer’s name and the bike’s serial number.
  • Seek guidance from a local bike shop.
  • Reach out to the manufacturer directly.
  • Post images of the bicycle along with its serial number on bike forums for assistance.

How can I find out the production year of my bicycle?

  • Reach out to cycling enthusiasts or local bike shop employees.
  • Identify specific components on the bike that may indicate its age.
  • Use the date code in the serial number if the brand includes the manufacture date in the serial number.

Can I look up a bike model using its serial number?

It is almost impossible to look up a bike’s model using just its serial number due to the lack of a standard format for encoding bicycle serial numbers.

What does a bike serial number look like and how do I read it?

A bike serial number is a string of numeric and alphabetic characters, usually between six and ten digits in length. It can include information like model code, production date, and line number. To decode it, you might need to visit the bicycle manufacturer’s official website or contact their support team.

What information can a serial number provide?

Serial numbers might tell a bike’s model year, the exact day of the year it was manufactured, its batch number, etc. However, most serial numbers are just digits engraved onto the frames of bicycles for easy identification.

Is the model number the same as the serial number?

Generally, both model and serial numbers mean the same thing. However, a model number might include certain elements exclusive to bicycles of the same model.

How can I check if a bike's serial number indicates it's stolen?

To check if a bicycle is stolen, you can run the serial number on databases like Bike Index and Bike Register. If the bike is registered as stolen, it’s advisable to avoid purchasing it and possibly inform the police.

Why is it important to know my bike's serial number and model?

Knowing your bicycle’s serial number or model name & year is crucial, especially if your bicycle develops a fault early into its purchase. Manufacturers often require these details before honoring the product’s warranty. Not having this information could prevent you from claiming the manufacturer’s warranty.

Are there any online resources to help identify a bike's model or year?

Yes, there are online forums like Cycle Chat and Bike Forums where you can post images and details of your bicycle. Enthusiasts and experts on these platforms might help identify the model or year of your bike.

How do manufacturers engrave serial numbers on bikes?

Manufacturers engrave a unique code onto the bike’s frame for identification. This model number usually indicates the bike’s make year and/or month. Some manufacturers even engrave identical elements onto different bikes of the same model to distinguish them.

How do bike serial numbers differ from vehicle identification numbers (VINs)?

Unlike VINs that act as a vehicle’s unique fingerprint and include details like the car’s country of origin, manufacturer code, and more, bicycle serial numbers are primarily for record-keeping and don’t have a standard format. They differentiate one bicycle from another within the same brand.

What should I do if I suspect a bike is stolen based on its serial number?

If you suspect a bike is stolen, especially if its serial number has been filed off or covered with paint, it’s advisable to avoid purchasing it. You can also inform the police to ensure the bike is returned to its rightful owner.

Are there any examples of how to decode a bike's serial number?

Yes, for instance, GT BMX bicycles built during the early 2000s had 10-character serial numbers. The last two letters indicated the bike’s production year and month. By understanding the coding system of the manufacturer, you can decode the information in the serial number.

Why is it essential to differentiate between a bike's model number and serial number?

While both terms might mean the same thing in general, a model number might include elements exclusive to bicycles of the same model, helping to identify specific features or versions of the bike.

Robert Walter

Robert Walter

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Welcome to the unofficial Vintage-Trek* bicycle web site. This is a noncommercial, just-for-fun, hobbyist site.

The primary purpose of this site is to gather and disseminate information about early lugged, steel-framed road bikes made by the Trek Bicycle Corporation , Waterloo, Wisconsin. In response to popular demand, the site has expanded to include not-so-vintage Trek bikes of all kinds as new as 2012 .

Mountain bikers , and carbon and aluminum aficionados do not despair - the brochure extracts on the site contain a list of specs for all of the bikes Trek produced in that year. Additionally, the table of Trek models by year includes all Trek bikes through 2005.

Other Resources - Specs for all Treks 93 and newer are on the BikePedia.com site. Additionally, specifications and pictures for 2003 and newer Treks are available on the Trekbikes.com web site archives .)

Before this site began, in various bicycle-related Internet discussion forums there were posted questions like:

  • How old is my Trek?
  • How was it equipped when new?
  • What was the original selling price?
  • Where was it in the price/quality hierarchy?

The query usually went unanswered. This site is an attempt to provide the information that answers questions such as these.

What Is on This Page?

Introduction | On This Site | Is it a Trek? Determining Year and Model | Collectability | Contributors Comments Appreciated | Contact | About this Site | My Treks

What Is on This Site?

On this site are Trek brochures or catalogs covering the period 1976 to 2012. There also are four early price lists from bike shops in Santa Barbara, CA. The price list and values page also has a list of bike prices when new. This information was provided mostly by visitors to this site. This page also includes suggestions for estimating the current value of a Vintage Trek.

There is a timeline for steel Trek road bikes that often can be used to identify or date a frame. A table of Trek models by year and color includes virtually all Trek bikes from 1976 through 2005.

Serial number information can be found on the serial number page .

Methods of determining the date of manufacture of bicycle components (and often the bikes they are on) are described here .

NOTICE : We are trying to sort out NITTO manufacturer's date codes. See here for details .

Suggestions for buying or selling a vintage Trek are given on the site as well as tips for refurbishing or upgrading your bike. Included is a section on general specifications for vintage Treks.

There also are catalogs from Gary Fisher (1988-2010); Klein (1989-2008), and LeMond (1996-2008) on the site.

Is It a Trek?

It usually is easy to identify a bike frame as a Trek, even if it has been repainted, as virtually all of them have "TREK" conveniently stamped or cast into one or more places on the frame. Possible locations are the top of the seat stays, the seat lug, the bottom bracket, and the top of the fork crown. An exception is the TX900 which has no cast-in "TREK".

Determining the Year and Model of Your Steel Trek

One often has to be a bit of a detective to sort this out.

  • If you know the model number, compare the colors of your bike against the Models/Years/Color listing. This works only for Treks from about 1982 onward. The earlier bikes models were available in numerous colors.
  • Check the serial number of the frame. If a 7 character alphanumeric, see the results of the Serial Number Decoding Project . If it is 6 digit numeric, in the range 000000 to 270975, go to the serial number page to get the year and model number. If it is 6 digit numeric higher than 270975, the year may be able to be determined from the Table II on the serial number page. Other serial number formats are described on the serial number page .
  • Check the description of graphics by year in the timeline to match up your bike. Go to the brochures , the BikePedia.com web site (for 1993 and newer), the Trekbikes.com web site archives (for 2003 and newer) and perhaps the gallery for more detail. For most years, (generally 1981 and newer) color is telling. For many models, two or more colors were available, but only one color is pictured. The other is listed on the model description page or in the separate specifications table. Complicating bike identification by color, Trek occasionally added a bike color after the brochure for that year was made. As they are identified, these additional colors are included in the Models/Year/Colors page. If your frame has been repainted, you may be able to find the original paint inside the bottom bracket shell, seat tube, or head tube. Occasionally, a frame was returned to Trek for repainting. Trek would use the then current colors and graphics, not the original ones. This means that color and graphics can (rarely) be misleading as to year.
  • If your bike has a model name or model number, look it up on the Models/Year/Colors table to find the years your bike was sold.
  • Compare the components on the bike with those described in the brochures, if you think they may be original. (BTW - This is tedious.) Cranks and brakes (and often seatposts), are more likely to be original than other components. (Note: Trek occasionally changed the components from what were described in the brochures. Improved parts became available during the year or specified parts became unavailable. In the case of unavailable parts, Trek invariably substituted better parts.)
  • Date the components on the bike (if you think they are original), guided by the component dates page. Dated components most likely to be original are brakes, handlebars, cranks and seatposts.
  • For some years, the model number (in the form xxx) appears on the bike. Easy - even I often get this right.
  • If the serial number is a 7 character alphanumeric, see the results of the Serial Number Decoding Project . If the number is a 6 digit numeral, check to see if your serial number is listed on one of the serial number years .
  • Racing? Touring? Sport? Measure the chainstay length, from the center of the crank to the center of the rear dropout. A length of 43.5, 44, 44.5, up to 47 cm (the Model 720 and 85 620) typically is a touring model, racing models are shorter at 41 to 41.5 cm or so. Sport versions are somewhere in between, at 43 cm or so.
  • Compare the components on the bike (and frame colors on 81 and newer) with those described in the brochures . or in the descriptions on the BikePedia.com (93 and newer) or the Trekbikes.com web site archives (for 2003 and newer) web sites.
  • For many models, two colors were available, but only one color is pictured. The other is listed on the model description page or in the separate specifications table.
  • Eyelets on dropouts? (for fenders or racks) - typically none on racing models (except for the first 4 or so years), yes on touring models, yes on most sport models.
  • Rear derailleur cable routed above or below bottom bracket? See 1982 Timeline page entry.
  • Cantilever Brakes? = Touring model. Centerpull Brakes = Touring (early 1982 720/728). Sidepull brakes? Very common. These only rule out models with cantilever and centerpull brakes.
  • Fastback seatstays with no TREK stamped on seat lug =TX900. (See Chas. Porter's bike in the gallery .) Also, the TX900 has three holes, of increasing size, in the top of the seat lugs and head lugs.
  • A seatpost diameter of 27.4mm indicates a Model 170. The Model TX300 is 26.8mm. All other vintage Treks are 27.2mm.
  • See Is it Columbus Tubing?

Collectability of Steel Treks

People often ask about the collectability of old Treks. Here are some general comments from my own observations and from the collected experience of others.

  • Lots of steel Trek bikes were made; most are not rare. However, virtually all steel Treks are quality riders and are valued as such. Vintage Treks with upgraded components are more valuable as riders, but this can decrease the value as a collector's item.
  • Top level Treks are considerably more collectable than lower level bikes. However, keep in mind that an entry-level Trek is at a mid-level price/value in comparison to the offerings of most other manufacturers.
  • Earlier Treks are more valuable as they generally are more rare. Now that the serial numbers are generally understood, one can verify the age of the frame.
  • Condition is all important to collectability. A bike with original paint is more desirable (to a collector) than a repainted bike. Additionally, bikes with components as provided by the factory are more desirable to the collector. In the case of bikes originally bought as bare frames, the components should be period correct.
  • The early bikes were built with traditional frame building methods and therefore are more desirable to the collector (in my view). This change from traditional methods to more automated methods was fairly gradual from 1976 to 1980, but then increased. Cast one-piece head tube/head lug assemblies appeared on some bikes in 1980 or 81. This began with lower level bikes but extended to mid level bikes later. (A small picture of this headtube/lug device is on page 2 of the 89 catalog .) Cast seat lugs, with sockets for the stays, appeared in about 1984. Artisan frame builders were generally replaced with frame technicians in the early 80s as more automated techniques were developed and employed. These changes did not necessarily reduce the quality of the frames, but did move Trek farther from traditional methods. This did achieve the goal of reducing production costs and helped keep Trek cost competitive (and solvent) in a highly competitive environment.
  • Vintage Trek bikes do not (yet) have the cachet of some English or European bikes, which generally have a much longer history. However, during the Vintage-Trek period, the quality of the frame materials, construction methods, and finish are certainly equal or superior to the vast majority of English and European top-level production bikes, and exceed many custom bikes as well.
  • The early Trek bikes, up to about 1983, have fender clearance. (The touring bikes beyond 83 all have fender clearance.) If people want a proper wide-tired touring bike, winter bike, or rain bike, all with fender clearance, they must typically buy a modern cyclocross bike or a custom bike. Most other modern road bikes don’t have the clearance (and don't have lugs). This helps keep vintage Treks popular as riders.
  • The early bikes, 1976 to about 82, were built using sliver solder, a more costly and desirable method. Many later models were built, at least partially, with sliver as well.
  • Ishiwata 022 steel frames were less expensive than Reynolds- or Columbus-tubed frames, but the steel quality was equal to the others. They are often described as “best value”.

Some vintage frame or bike models have special significance; these include the TX900, 720/728, 170, and 520 .

The TX900 was the early top-of-the-line frameset, dating from 1976 to mid 1978. The Columbus tubing, racing geometry, and fastback seat stays were characteristic of this model (not to be confused with the later bikes from the mid-80s having cast socketed seat lugs in fastback form). Another special feature is the three holes, of increasing size, in the top of the seat lugs and head lugs. The unique and distinctive design, and relative rarity, adds to the value of these frames.

The 720/728 touring bikes , dating from 82-85 were (and still are) highly-rated bikes for serious touring. The long chainstays, 47cm, provide heel clearance for the rear panniers, and contribute to a comfortable ride. These frames and bikes are still highly sought after by knowledgeable tourists. A similar steel lugged frame is not currently available except from a custom framemaker. In my opinion, these framesets and bikes will only increase in value over time. The steel racing Treks will never again be used by top racers for racing. However, the 720 will be used (and coveted) by experienced tourists well into the future. Trek made a total of 7929 720 and 728 bikes and frames (number calculated by Mitch Hawker).

(Note: Trek ran out of model numbers; don't confuse these touring 720s with the 1990-1999 Model 720 MultiTrack bikes.)

The Model 170 , arguably Trek’s best steel racing frame, was available during the period 1983 to 1985. They were made with Reynolds 753 tubing. Among their users was the 7-11 Team. Tim Isaac designed the 170. Expert framebuilders John Thompson, Rick Faultersack, and Kelly Gamble built them.

The 520 touring bike first appeared in 1983 and probably has made more trans-America crossings than any other bike model. It still is offered by Trek in steel (although not lugged), which has helped maintain significant model recognition among bicyclists. This longevity and popularity has raised the value of this bike over similarly-priced vintage Treks of the period.

Two parameters are specially important to the 520 over the years: chainstay length (as pointed out by Robert Cooke) and the type of brakes used. Long chainstays are used on touring bikes to provide a more stable, cushioned ride and to provide more room for panniers (saddle bags). Serious touring bikes in the 80s and 90s were equipped with cantilever brakes (the classic center-pull cantilevers). These were considered powerful enough to stop a heavily loaded bike going downhill. The sidepull brakes of the time were considered less capable for such extreme duty. It wasn't until Shimano developed their "V-brake" (known generically as the side-pull cantilever or the direct pull brake) that a viable alternative to the traditional cantilever was available. This new brake was used on the 520 after 1999. The table below shows these two 520 characteristics through time. These data should be of use to people who plan to buy a vintage 520.

Table I - Brake Type and Chainstay Length for Trek Model 520 from 1983 through 2012

The 620 touring bike was offered in 1983, 84, and 85. It was a level above the 520, but because it was short lived and no longer in production, it is not as familiar to potential purchasers. On the used market, this often means less money for an even better bike. Only the 85 model had the extra-long 47cm chainstays, matching those of the 720.

Some Trek models shared the same frame. For example, if you want a 1983 frame with 620 geometry and materials, you can look for a 1983 600, 630, or 640, all of which have the same characteristics as the 620. The geometry and frame materials are normally given in the brochure for that year.

Contributors

Many thanks to the people who have contributed significant information to the site. They are: Tom Adams, , Mark Agree, Don Allgire, Peter Berger, Wayne Bingham, Alan Burnett, Larry Black, Dave Breitlow, Ed Brown, Colin Campbell, Dan Carlsson, Mark Carter, Andrew Chadwick, Chris Clement, Bill Clements, Chris Cleveland, John Colt, Nels Cone, Robert Cooke, Mark Crabtree, Julia DeGrace, Kris Echert, Taryn Echert, Anita Edens, Dave Evans, David Feldman, Ivan Feldman, Erik Frey, Tim Fricker, Cory Fry, Rich Ferguson, Marsha Gill, Don Gillies, Dickey Greer, John Hallows, Lyle Hanson, D. Hansen, Keith Hatfull, Mitch Hawker, Sean Hickey, George Hoechst, Bill Howard, Jim Jack, Jennings Kilgore, Michael Johnson, John Keller, Steve Kurt, Jeff Kwapil, JP Lacy, Kevin Maher, Dave Mann, Steve Mann, Tom Marshall (T-mar), Tom Meara, Michael McCullough, Marty Meison, Lou Miranda, Dale Mizer, Greg Mooncalf, Mike Marro, Kirt Murray, George Nenni, Larry Osborn, Dennis Pieper, Andy Poplawski, Chas. Porter, Tim Rangitsch, Jack Romaine, Michael A. Roberts, Brandon Rouse, Roger Sacilotto, John Satory, Paul Schleck, Travis Sherwood, Dan Shindelar, Bruce Squires, Dave Staublin, Jay St. John, Scott Stulken, Tom Sustarich, Mike Swantak, David Temple, Elisabeth Thomas-Matej, Kevin Tita, Craig Tornga, Kevin Truelove, Mark Wade, Martin Walsh, Leighton Walter, Ben Weiner, Luker White, and Brad Ziegler.

This site would not have been possible without their help and support. I know there will be more to thank in the future.

The list above does not include the many hundreds of other people who have provided a serial number or other smaller contribution to the site. Our hearfelt thanks to these folks as well.

Comments and Information Appreciated

Please send your comments, corrections, and materials! If you have additional information about steel Treks; old brochures, price sheets, or other information, please pass them along. Easiest digital form is probably as .gif files (for graphics) or .jpg files (for photographs) scanned at 150 dpi or more. If you send printed information, it will be scanned and returned to you.

Currently, I am not adding more photos to the Gallery. Now that we have all (or virtually all) of the brochures/catalogs for each year, the Gallery is not as important as it was earlier. My current task is to sort out the many other forms of serial numbers used on Trek bikes throughout the years.

How to Contact Me

Skip Echert - E-mail: [email protected]

About This Site

At a bicycle shop in Santa Barbara, in about 1978, I picked up a Trek brochure which described the "pre owned" frame/bike that I had just purchased. In 2001, I found that brochure in my old papers and was surprised to find two other Trek brochures and four price lists that I had salted away as well. These materials were the genesis of this site, which went online in 2001. The amount of material on the site has grown steadily over time, much of it from the information and documents generously provided by site visitors.

As the site expanded, and visitors could find information to answer their questions, the nature of the questions has evolved. For example, I now get few questions about the early serial numbers (as they now are well documented) but more about the many later ones used by Trek.

The site currently gets 12,000 to 20,000 unique visitors per month. We have received and replied to over 2400 emails. Many of the questions asked and then researched have been the basis for information added to the site.

I have a Trek TX900, originally sold new (frame only) in 1977 to a very accomplished teenager who raced it in and around Santa Barbara, CA. He had equipped it mostly with Campagnolo Nuovo Record parts from 1973 and earlier, a Zeus front hub, a Super Olimpic rear hub, and Cinelli bars and stem. He, or the previous owner, had replaced many of the steel bolts in the components with titanium or aluminum after-market items. I purchased it from him in 1978 for the sum of $375. He was 16 when he sold it, after discovering girls and cars.

A few years ago, I replaced the sew-up rims with clinchers, carefully spread the rear triangle to 126mm and replaced the (then) splitting rear hub with a 6 speed Campagnolo model. At the urging of Don Altman, a bike-savvy friend, I replaced the the Teledyne titanium crank axle (by the way - beautifully crafted) with a stock Campagnolo model. Don knew that many of these aftermarket axles had failed - with painful consequences for the rider. (I was probably perfectly safe, as my horsepower output could never be described as "gear busting"). After making this substitution, I realized the axle had been the cause of wobble in the chainrings. With these changes, the bike now is even a greater joy to ride. Perhaps one day the TX900 will have matching rims, tires, hubs, and brake pads. (Or would that just indicate a lack of imagination on my part?)

In 2002, I bought a 1981 Model 613, in almost new condition, at Recycled Cycles in Seattle. I decided this would be my (almost) modern bike. It is now a 24-speed index shifter, assembled from used and new parts. See this gallery page for details.

In June of 09, John Keller, a major contributor to the site, gave me a 1980 Model 710 frame in excellent condition. Wow! The results of the buildup can be seen on a page in the gallery .

I received the fabulous gift of a 1985 Model 720 frameset in April of 2014. It was from numerous members of the BikeForums.net Classic and Vintage forum. It was offered as a thank you for the Vintage-Trek website. What generous people! Earlier, in corresponding with Dave Vegafria about his 720s, I casually mentioned my long-term hope of getting a 720 one day. Without mentioning anything to me, Dave thought the time could be sooner. He posed the question on the forum and got dozens of offers of support. Since it arrived, I have gathered almost all of the needed components. When finished, it will be in the gallery.

My son has a 1993 Model 8700 Trek carbon-tubed mountain bike. He bought it at a local pawn shop for $100 in 2004. It had been updated with an early suspension fork.

Introduction | On This Site | Identify as a Trek | Determining Year and Model | Collectability Contributors | Comments Appreciated | Contact | About this Site | My Treks

Brochures | Price Lists and Values | Trek History | Trek Timeline | Serial Numbers Component Dates | Gallery | Contact | Buy/Sell Suggestions Refurbish/Upgrade | Bike Resources | Home

*Trek is a trademark of Trek Bicycle Corporation, Waterloo, WI

All copyrights in the TREK brochures, pricelists, owner's manuals and photographs displayed on this website are the sole property of Trek Bicycle Corporation, Waterloo, Wisconsin.

All materials in this site not copyrighted by others are Copyright © 2001-2015 Skip Echert Web Associates , All rights reserved.

Here are the best electric bikes you can buy at every price level in May 2024

Avatar for Micah Toll

I’ve spent countless hours here at Electrek doing detailed hands-on testing of hundreds of electric bikes. Through thousands of miles of riding, I’ve learned these e-bikes inside and out, top to bottom and front to back. That dedication to real-world e-bike testing has helped me find the best electric bicycles on the market for just about any budget.

Below are some of the top e-bikes I’ve hand-tested for every price range, current as of May 2024. Spring is finally upon us (at least, here in the Northern Hemisphere) and riding season is gearing up! Just like the ultra-competitive e-bike selling year in 2023, this year has turned into the year of the e-bike sales. So check out the awesome e-bikes below, any one of which could become your next electric bike.

Table of contents

Best electric bikes under $1,000, lectric one, best electric bikes from $2,000 to $3,500, best electric bikes from $3,500 to $5,000.

The sub-$1,000 electric bike category is critical for a few reasons.

First, it’s pretty hard to produce a quality e-bike and sell it for under $1k. Most of the options in this price category make too many sacrifices in quality or longevity to earn a spot on this list as one of “the best”.

Second, many newcomers to the e-bike industry just aren’t prepared to drop several thousand dollars on a brand-new concept, making this price range critical for many first-time e-bike shoppers.

Fortunately, we’ve found some excellent options for cheap electric bikes that can still save you some serious dough.

lectric xp lite

Lectric XP LITE

The Lectric XP LITE is likely the latest king of bang-for-your-buck electric bikes.

For years, the $999 Lectric XP 3.0 and its previous 1.0 predecessor reigned supreme in the budget electric bike category. That’s still a great bike, and we’ll discuss it next, but the more affordable $799 Lectric XP LITE is an even more wallet-friendly electric bike.

That new e-bike offers some great riding at under 800 bucks.

It’s a throttle-enabled Class 2 folding electric bike with 20″ wheels, a max speed of 20 mph (32 km/h) and a motor rated for 300W continuous and 720W peak.

It’s not going to be the strongest hill climber, but it does get going quickly on flat and modestly hilly terrain.

lectric xp lite

This is the only e-bike in this price range that I know of with a 48V electrical system. All the other budget e-bikes under $800 use a 36V system and thus suffer from weaker power.

There are some things that you give up with this model, such as that the fenders aren’t included free. But for just $799 , you’re still getting built-in lights, a hidden battery, large LCD display and a lightweight folder. Plus it comes in four color options.

There’s a lot of value there!

Lectric XP LITE quick specs

  • Motor:  300W (720W peak) geared rear hub motor
  • Top speed:  32 km/h (20 mph)
  • Range:  Claimed up to 72 km (40 mi), but less on throttle only
  • Battery:  48V 7.8 Ah (375 Wh)
  • Weight : 21 kg (46 lb)
  • Price :  $799  

lectric xp 3.0 electric bike

Lectric XP 3.0

If you like the idea of a low-cost US-based company like Lectric eBikes but want something with more power than their XP LITE, consider the $999 Lectric XP 3.0 . The XP 3.0 is the newest version of America’s best-selling electric bike, and now it’s even better with hydraulic disc brakes! In my opinion, this is the current king of bang-for-your-buck electric bikes right now. It’s clear why this is the best-selling electric bike in the US.

Between the fast 28 mph speed, comfortable ride with front suspension, nimble yet thick three-inch tires, and the powerful 1,000W peak-rated motor, the bike combines high performance with an awesome price. The new version comes with a higher power motor featuring more torque, a new rear rack that can support 150 pounds (and has a passenger package option for carrying a friend), has longer travel suspension, and several other key upgrades.

There are both step-over and step-through frames available. To be honest, the frame member is low on both of them and so they’re both easy to mount, but I actually prefer the step-through. Even though low-step bikes are often considered to be “women’s bikes,” the Lectric XP 3.0 looks badass enough that no one would ever think of calling the step-through option a ladies’ bike. It’s just a more comfortable way to hop on and off.

Plus, the folding frame of the Lectric XP 3.0 means you can bring this high-value e-bike with you in a car or truck. I know several people who keep one in their RV, and I’ve even heard of folks traveling with it on their boat or light airplane.

The company also has longer-range batteries for the XP 3.0 that add 45% more range. If you’re the kind of person who likes to ride fast, that battery will help you use that power for longer rides at higher speeds.

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It’s hard to find a better combination of low cost and high performance anywhere in the e-bike market right now. That’s why this is the bike I used when I worked undercover as an e-bike delivery rider .

Check out my first ride experience on the Lectric XP 3.0 here .

Lectric XP 3.0 quick specs

  • Motor:  500W (850W peak) geared rear hub motor
  • Top speed:  45 km/h (28 mph)
  • Range:  Claimed up to 72 km (45 mi), but less if you’re heavy on the throttle
  • Battery:  48V 9.6 Ah (460 Wh), or larger 14Ah battery available
  • Weight : 29 kg (64 lb)
  • Price :  $999  

Ride1Up Portola

When Ride1Up launched the Portola , it was pretty obvious what the game plan was: fire a shot across Lectric Ebike’s bow with a direct competitor to the Lectric XP 3.0. By all accounts, Ride1Up nailed it with an impressive competitor, the best-selling e-bike out there.

The Ride1Up Portola has a lot more going for it than just the awesome price of $995 . The bike has great performance with a maximum speed of 28 mph (45 km/h) and great components including hydraulic disc brakes, front suspension, a built-in rear rack, and a 750W motor.

There are two battery options available, either a 48V 10.4Ah or a 48V 13.4Ah, and the larger battery only costs an extra $100.

I love the sleek-looking frame and apparently, I’m not alone. Those who are on the hunt for a good-looking folding fat tire e-bike that doesn’t break the bank will likely find this to be one of the more fashionable options.

ride1up portola electric bike

Ride1Up Portola quick specs

  • Motor:  750W geared rear hub motor
  • Battery:  48V 10.4 Ah (504 Wh), or larger 48V 13.4 Ah battery available
  • Weight : 27.2 kg (60 lb)
  • Price :  $995  

Ride1Up Roadster V2

The Ride1Up Roadster V2 seems to hop back and forth in price from $995 to $1,095 , depending on the time of year and current sale. Even when it falls just north of the $1k mark, the Roadster V2 is an awesome deal.

But you should know going in that this is very much a pedal-oriented e-bike. There’s no throttle, and the motor is only moderately powerful, peaking at 500W. That means the Roadster V2 is best for someone who enjoys cycling and simply wants an assist motor to help them go faster and farther.

The belt-drive setup, low-weight design, and fast speed of up to 24 mph make this an incredible deal.

You can check out my full, in-depth review of the Ride1Up Roadster V2 here .

Ride1up Roadster V2 quick specs:

  • Motor:  500W peak (350W continuous) rear hub motor
  • Top speed:  24 mph (38 km/h)
  • Range:  20-35 miles (32-56 km)
  • Battery:  36V 7Ah (252Wh)
  • Weight : 32 lb (14.5 kg)
  • Price :  $995-$1,095

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Propella Mini

The $849 Propella Mini almost looks a bit odd at first glance, but the quirky proportions result in a super nimble and lightweight e-bike.

It’s not particularly fast at just 18 mph. And it’s also a pedal-assist e-bike, meaning you don’t have a throttle for the days when you feel lazy. But for anyone that doesn’t mind pedaling as long as you get a decent electric boost, the Propella Mini is a great option for you.

I love the bright blue rims, white chain, and slim black frame. The look is killer. And the bike rides both smoothly and efficiently. There’s no suspension to speak of, but the upside is there’s no suspension fork to break. The bike should last a long time with modest upkeep, and it’s a definite winner for anyone that’s low on space.

See my full review of the Propella Mini here .

Propella Mini quick specs

  • Motor:  250 W (400 W peak) Bafang rear geared hub motor
  • Top speed:  30 km/h (18.5 mph)
  • Range:  32-56 km (20-35 mi) depending on pedal assist level
  • Battery:  36V 7Ah (250 Wh)
  • Price:  $849
  • Weight : 14.9 kg (33 lb)

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JackRabbit micro e-bike

The $999 JackRabbit OG is in one of these fuzzy areas between e-bikes and other e-rideables. In this case, it straddles the line between an electric bike and an electric scooter.

It more or less feels like an electric bike based on its ride geometry. However, the lack of pedals means that it could also be classified as an electric scooter, albeit a large-wheeled e-scooter.

But with those 20-inch wheels and bicycle seat, the JackRabbit rides much more like a small folding e-bike than an e-scooter. And its electronics match that of a light e-bike too.

The 300W motor gets the little runabout up to 20 mph (32 km/h). The small 158 Wh battery only offers around 10-12 miles (approximately 16-20 km) of range, but is also conveniently small enough to easily keep a spare battery in a cargo pocket or even a small purse.

The biggest benefit of the JackRabbit is that it is so simple that the lack of frills keeps the weight down to just 23 lb (10.5 kg)! For an e-bike, that’s almost so light that it floats.

The company also released a higher power and larger battery capacity version too , which might be good for riders that want to push harder and go farther.

See my full review of the JackRabbit here .

JackRabbit quick specs

  • Motor:  300W geared rear hub motor
  • Range:  20 km (12 mi)
  • Bike weight:  10.5 kg (23 lb.)
  • Brakes:  Rear mechanical disc brake

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Best electric bikes under $2,000

Once you bump up above the $1,000 limit, you start to see many more great options for e-bikes in a wide range of categories.

From electric cargo bikes to cruisers and even electric mopeds, there’s something for everyone in this price range.

The Lectric ONE is listed in the “Best under $2,000” category, but in many ways, it’s the best in under a significantly higher dollar value. To put it into perspective, it’d be hard to buy the gearbox alone on this bike for under $2,000, and yet that’s the price tag of the entire bike! For just $1,999 , you’re getting an e-bike with components normally found on $10,000+ bikes.

The Lectric One was unveiled as a lightweight commuter e-bike designed with an ultra high-end drivetrain based around the Pinion C1.6i auto-shifting gearbox. Paired with a Gates carbon belt drive and a true 750W-rated Stealth M24 motor (with 1,300 peak watts!), the Lectric ONE hits class 3 speeds in style with some extra premium components.

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Lectric ONE quick specs:

  • Motor:  750W rear hub motor (1.3 kW peak)
  • Battery:  48V 10.4 or 14Ah (500Wh or 672 Wh)
  • Top speed:  28 mph (45 km/h)
  • Range:  up to 75 miles (120 km)
  • Weight:  55 lb (25 kg)
  • Price:   $1,999

Lectric XPedition

We were the first to review this new model and we called it a runaway hit right from the start. With heavy-hauling weight capacity, the option for one or two batteries for extra long range, hydraulic disc brakes and a watt-based more comfortable feeling pedal assist sensor, this e-bike is dragging electric cargo bikes into the future.

The $1,399 Lectric XPedition has turned the electric cargo bike market upside down, finally bringing a heavy-hitting cargo e-bike to market for an ultra-affordable price.

While it’s not the nicest cargo e-bike on the market, it’s definitely the best bang for your buck thanks to a combination of high value parts and reasonable pricing.

Lectric XPedition e-bike

Lectric XPedition quick specs:

  • Motor:  750W rear hub motor
  • Battery:  48V 14Ah (672 Wh) with the option for a second battery
  • Weight:  68 lb (31 kg)
  • Price:   $1,399

Aventon Soltera.2

The $1,399 Aventon Soltera.2 is the latest version of Aventon’s beautiful city bike that offers some of the best quality fabrication that I’ve seen in this price range – or even in higher price ranges. It is offered in either a single-speed or seven-speed format.

The bike rolls on narrow tires for that efficient city ride, while still packing in a 500W motor.

The battery is a bit smaller at 36V and 10Ah, but the bike makes up for a smaller battery by being able to integrate it into the frame in a sleek and attractive package.

The beautiful color display also adds to the bike’s charm, as do the powerful headlight and frame-integrated tail light. There’s even an awesome companion app that lets your phone track your bike’s important stats. Basically, you’re getting a lot for $1,199 here!

Check out my in-depth Aventon Soltera.2 review here .

Aventon Soltera.2 quick specs:

  • Motor:  500W peak-rated rear hub motor
  • Battery:  36V 10Ah (360 Wh)
  • Top speed:  20 mph (32 km/h)
  • Range:  20-63 miles (32-101 km)
  • Weight:  46 lb (21 kg)
  • Price:   $1,199

aventon soltera electric bike

Ride1Up Turris

Ride1Up has proven itself as a high-value electric bike brand, focusing largely on efficient and speedy commuter e-bikes. While the company has many models in the $1,000 to $2,000 range, the $1,095 Ride1Up Turris (at it’s current sale price ) is one of the best bang-for-your-buck options.

A powerful 750W continuous-rated motor gets the bike up to Class 3 speeds that will have you keeping up with traffic or even passing cars when they get bogged down in the city. That extra speed over most class 2 e-bikes can be quite useful when riding on the side of the road trying to reduce the number of times a car whizzes by you. Even when riding alone or in a protected path away from cars, the extra speed sure makes for a fun ride.

The sporty tires and two choices of frame style (step over or step through) give riders plenty of options to use this bike on the trails or the streets. I love that it includes full metal fenders as well so you don’t have to spend extra on those. I’d definitely recommend spending an extra $50 for the rear rack though if you plan to use the bike as a commuter, since you never know when you’ll need to toss something on the back.

If you want to upgrade to more power and a nicer set of components, the $1,695 700 Series is worth a look. But I think the Ride1Up Turris is sufficient for most riders.

Ride1Up Turris quick specs:

  • Range:  32-64 km (20-40 mi) throttle vs. pedal assist
  • Battery:  48V 12.8Ah (614 Wh) with genuine LG cells
  • Weight : 25 kg (55 lb)
  • Price :  $1,095

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Lectric XPeak

Lectric Ebikes recently expanded into larger territory with the launch of the new Lectric XPeak. It’s the company’s first e-bike with a larger than 20″ wheel size, bringing some chunky 26×4.0″ tires into the company’s inventory.

The XPeak takes the form of a typical adventure-style fat tire electric bike. It features a hardtail design with a suspension fork, high volume tires, hydraulic disc brakes and a relatively large battery that is certified by the Swiss testing agency SGS to meet UL 2849 standards.

The bike is also tested to higher standards for ruggedness of the frame and fork than most e-bikes in this price range, meaning it’s likely going to last longer too. As far as fat tire adventure-style e-bikes go, there’s no better bang for your buck than the Lectric XPeak.

Lectric XPeak quick specs:

  • Motor:  750W (1,300W peak)
  • Range:  Up to 75 km (45 mi) on low power
  • Battery:  48V 14 Ah (672 Wh)
  • Weight : 39.4 kg (67 lb)
  • Price : $1,299 (may increase to $1,399 after promotional sale ends)

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Ride1Up Cafe Cruiser

The Ride1Up Cafe Cruiser is Ride1Up’s first non-purely commuter electric bike, and boy did they knock it out of the park on this one.

The Cafe Cruiser, as its name suggests, is part cruiser bike, part fast motorbike.

The cruiser bars, suspension fork, comfortable seat and pedal-forward geometry make it a pleasure to ride. The high performance 750W hub motor and 28 mph (45 km/h) top speed make it a blast for quick errand running and fun commutes.

High quality parts like hydraulic disc brakes complete the package, and the included fenders and rear rack increase the bike’s value.

One of the coolest features though is the passenger package that adds a rear bench seat, wheel skirt and foot pegs so you can carry a second rider on back. The second seat has a quick release so you can easily pop it on and off the bike whenever you need to swap back and forth between carrying your friends or a basket full of groceries home.

At just $1,595 , the Ride1Up Cafe Cruiser is priced way below fair market value, which makes this an absolute steal of a deal.

Ride1Up Cafe Cruiser quick specs:

  • Motor:  750W rear geared hub motor
  • Range:  50-80 km (30-50 mi)
  • Battery:  48V 15Ah (720 Wh)
  • Weight : 29 kg (65 lb)
  • Price : $1,595

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Rad Power Bikes RadRunner

The RadRunner from Rad Power Bikes has been an industry favorite ever since it was first announced back in 2019. The company is actually on the RadRunner 2 now, but the update only made minor changes since the original was already so well designed.

The bike uses a step-through moped style frame to create a short utility bike or mini cargo e-bike. It’s quick up to the 20 mph top speed and offers a ton of uses. When outfitted with the Passenger Package , it has a seat and footpegs that let you carry kids or adults on the back, turning this into a multi-passenger e-bike.

The high-capacity battery and powerful motor also make for sprightly acceleration and longer than average rides, so you’ll have enough power to ride all day.

The RadRunner is truly one of those do-anything e-bikes because it has so many uses. The same bike can be used for fun recreational riding, city commuting, trail riding, or grocery shopping. There’s something for everyone.

There’s even an upgraded version known as the RadRunner Plus, which adds suspension, a seven-speed transmission, a more detailed display, and the passenger package, though the RadRunner Plus costs a bit more at $1,899 .

Check out my complete review of the RadRunner 2 here .

RadRunner 2 quick specs:

  • Range:  45-72 km (25-45 mi) depending on user input
  • Battery:  48V 14Ah (672 Wh)
  • Weight : 29.5 kg (65 lb)
  • Price : $1,499

Rad Power Black Friday

Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 4

Cargo electric bikes are the workhorses of the e-bike world. They have higher weight capacities and more surface area for carrying all of your gear.

The $1,999 Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 4 is one of my favorite options thanks to the awesome build and wide range of compatible Rad accessories.

The bike’s 750W motor and large capacity battery make it easy to hit the top speed of 20 mph and ride farther than your errands will require.

Plus that long rear bench has tons of room for boxes, bags, or kiddos. I’ve had three riders on the bike plenty of times, and it can definitely do more. Plus, I love that double center kickstand for creating an ultra-stable parking platform.

Check out my full in-depth review of the RadWagon 4 e-cargo bike here .

Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 4 quick specs:

  • Motor:  750 W geared rear hub motor
  • Battery:  48V 14Ah (672Wh)
  • Weight : 34.8 kg (76.7 lb)
  • Price: $1,999

Electric Bike Company Model Y

Electric Bike Company is one of the only e-bike manufacturers that actually builds its electric bikes in the US from the ground up.

They start with bare frames and perform the entire build locally with highly trained e-bike technicians. That also allows them to offer more customization options than any other e-bike company out there.

The $1,949 Model Y is a step-through cruiser e-bike with a hidden battery in the front basket. It offers fast speeds up to 28 mph and high-quality parts like hydraulic disc brakes and top-end hardware. The color screen and leather accents on the seat and bar ends add to the classy look too!

The real treat though is getting to select the custom paint on every surface of the bike, plus your own rim colors, trim colors, and tire options. It’s incredibly customizable to the point where you’re virtually guaranteed to be able to create a truly one-of-a-kind electric bike if you wish.

Check out my full review of the Electric Bike Company Model Y here .

Electric Bike Company Model Y quick specs:

  • Motor:  1,000W peak rear geared hub motor
  • Range:  Up to 80 km (50 mi) with moderate pedaling
  • Battery:  48V with either 9Ah (432 Wh) or 18Ah (864 Wh) options
  • Weight : 26 kg (58 lb)
  • Price:   $1,949

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Velotric Nomad 1

Velotric has a number of interesting e-bikes in its lineup and I’m enjoying testing several of the companies new models. But one of my favorites so far — thanks to its excellent off-road abilities — has got to be the Velotric Nomad 1.

The e-bike isn’t just powerful or surprisingly comfortable for an off-road, it’s also quite safe. The punchy hydraulic disc brakes offer quick and controlled stops while the UL-certified battery and e-bike systems offer safe operations, removing the worry of dangerous thermal events.

For just $1,499 at its current sale price, this is an excellent bike for both asphalt commuting and dirt trail excursions, all on the same ride!

Check out my full review of the Velotric Nomad 1 here .

Velotric Nomad 1 quick specs:

  • Motor:  1,200W peak rear geared hub motor
  • Range:  Up to 88km (55 mi) on pedal assist
  • Battery:  48V 14.4Ah (691 Wh) frame-integrated, removable
  • Weight : 33 kg (73 lb)
  • Price:  $1,499

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Ride1Up Rift

Ride1Up’s first adventure-style electric bike was a smashing success, helping the San Diego-based electric bike maker enter an entirely new category with a bang.

This fat tire electric bike has a powerful motor, a massive 960Wh battery and an ultra rugged frame with built-in rear rack that can carry heavy cargo or even an adult passenger on back.

With fenders, built-in LED lights and cargo capabilities, the Ride1Up Rift would also make a surprisingly good commuter bike that will traverse pot holes and other rough street imperfections just as well as it handles off-road conditions.

Check out my full review of the Ride1Up Rift XR here .

Ride1Up Rift XR quick specs:

  • Motor:  750W continuous-rated rear geared hub motor
  • Top speed:  32 km/h (20 mph) on throttle, or 45 km/h (28 mph) on pedal assist
  • Range:  Up to 96 km (60 mi) on pedal assist
  • Battery:  48V 20Ah (960 Wh) frame-integrated, removable
  • Weight : 38 kg (84.5 lb)
  • Price:  $1,895

ride1up rift XR e-bike

Velotric Packer electric cargo bike

There are a lot of electric cargo bikes on the market, but the Velotric Packer has recently become one of my go-to recommendations for several reasons. It’s fairly priced, has loads of cargo accessories, includes a UL-certified battery, comes in some eye-catching colors, and works well for transporting my three nieces and nephews around with me.

At its sale price of $1,899, this is definitely an electric cargo bike to have on your short list for it’s slick-looking design and great functionality.

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Check out my full review of the Velotric Packer here .

  • Motor : 750W (1,200W peak) rear-geared hub motor
  • Top speed : 20 mph (32 km/h) or 25 mph (40 km/h) when unlocked
  • Range : Up to 52 miles (84 km)
  • Battery : 48V 15Ah (692 Wh)
  • Weight : 75 lb (34 kg)
  • Price : $1,899

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By the time you surpass the $2,000 dollar mark, you’re starting to get into serious e-bikes with serious performance or build quality.

If you’re spending this much, you’ll want to ensure you’re buying from a reputable company with top-notch products and service.

Ride1Up Prodigy V2 mid-drive e-bike

The $2,295 Ride1Up Prodigy V2 has brought new meaning to the phrase “low-cost mid-drive electric bike”, updating an already impressive e-bike with a new next-gen setup.

This e-bike sports a high-end German-manufactured Brose mid-drive motor and can hit speeds of up to 28 mph (45 km/h), yet is price similarly to much cheaper hub motor-based electric bikes.

It’s a perfect commuter e-bike for someone that wants high quality parts like that German mid-drive motor with 90Nm of torque, hydraulic disc brakes, bright LED lights, included fenders, rear rack, and a very comfortable saddle. Plus there’s a choice between a nice 9-speed chain drive transmission or a fancier Gates Carbon Drive belt setup with an Enviolo continuously variable transmission.

This e-bike is easily worth another $500 more than the price tag, if not more. In fact, you’ll find many of these same components on e-bikes with $3,000-$4,000 price tags all over the place. So if you’re looking for a higher quality e-bike that doesn’t cost as much as a fancy bike shop e-bike, this is the one to consider.

Ride1Up Prodigy quick specs:

  • Motor:  Brose TF Sprinter mid-drive
  • Range:  30-50 miles (50-80 km)
  • Battery:  36V 14Ah (504Wh)
  • Weight : 58 lb (26 kg)
  • Price :  $2,395

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Juiced Scorpion X

The $2,199 Juiced Scorpion X has all the old-school charm of a vintage moped, but it adds back in a powerful electric drivetrain. It also has awesome-looking cast wheels that remove the issue of spoke maintenance, plus add to the cool stance.

The bench seat allows riders to scoot forward or backward to find the best seating position, and the tall bars give a fun cruiser/motorcycle feel to the bike. With full suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, and a built-in rear rack/fenders, there are a lot of nice parts on the Scorpion X

A powerful throttle lets you blast up to 20 mph, or engaging the pedal assist can take you even faster to 28 mph. And Juiced offers a larger battery than most competitors, letting you ride this moto-styled e-bike even further.

Check out my in-depth review of the Juiced Scorpion X here .

Juiced Scorpion X quick specs:

  • Motor:  750W “nominal” (claimed 1.8 kW peak) RetroBlade rear hub motor
  • Range:  Up to 55 miles (88 km) on pedal-assist or closer to half that on throttle
  • Battery:  52V 15Ah 780Wh (removable and lockable)
  • Weight : 100 lb (45 kg)
  • Price : $2,199

Priority Current

I love the $3,299 Priority Current electric bike so much that it has become one of my daily riders. It’s the one I grab when I’m doing city riding and I know I want to be pedaling.

Becuase it doesn’t have a throttle, you’ll need to enjoy pedaling in order to enjoy this e-bike. But it makes it so much fun to pedal thanks to a torque sensor-based pedal assist that provides natural feeling assistance up to a fast 28 mph top speed.

The internally geared rear hub combined with a Gates belt drive system and powerful hydraulic disc brakes make this a very nice e-bike for the price. Plus that mid-drive motor offers tons of torque for climbing hills or accelerating quickly.

I’m also a fan of the built-in lights and included fenders, not to mention the integrated high-capacity battery that disappears in the frame.

Mid-drive electric bikes aren’t cheap, but the price is definitely a fair one for this e-bike.

Check out my full review of the Priority Current here . I also recently reviewed the Shimano 5-speed version of this e-bike, which you can find here .

Priority Current quick specs :

  • Motor:  500W mid-drive motor with torque sensor
  • Top speed:  28 mph (45 km/h) or 20 mph (32 km/h) user-selectable
  • Range:  30-60 miles (48-96 km)
  • Battery:  500 Wh frame-integrated battery
  • Weight : 24 kg (53 lb)
  • Price: $3,299

Ride1Up CF Racer1

I’m not normally a carbon fiber, drop bar, race bike kind of guy. But then again, that’s usually because those types of bikes are way out of my price range… until now.

The Ride1Up CF Racer1 brings carbon fiber road e-bikes to the common man, offering both a traditional road bike and a gravel bike edition.

At under 29 lb (13 kg), these e-bikes are some of the lightest around. I picked one up with my index finger and was shocked at how easily it left the ground.

To get there, that meant a relatively low-power motor and a smaller battery were required. But for the folks that ride these types of bikes, a big motor and heavy battery probably aren’t on their wishlist anyway. Instead, a simple extra boost, as if you’ve always got a tailwind, helps augment your own pedaling.

For just $2,295 , there’s no better deal out there for a budget-friendly carbon fiber road e-bike.

Ride1Up CF Racer1 quick specs

  • Motor:  250W 42 Nm torque
  • Top speed:  28 mph (45 km/h) on pedal assist
  • Range:  16-40 miles (26-64 km)
  • Battery:  252 Wh frame-integrated battery
  • Weight : 12.9 kg (28.6 lb)
  • Price: $2,295

ride1up CF Racer1 electric bike

Biktrix Moto

There’s a lot to like about the Biktrix Moto electric moped. Near the top of the list though has got to be the dual batteries. There’s a single battery option that starts at $2,299 , but the dual battery option doubles the range up to a maximum of 100 miles.

Even with just one battery, the high capacity of 1,008 Wh makes these some of the biggest batteries in the e-bike industry. Combine that with a high power motor, tall handlebars, and a long bench seat, and you’ve got a seriously fun electric moped.

It doesn’t slouch on components either. The lighting is ultra bright and it features other nice parts like powerful hydraulic disc brakes and an included rack/fender setup.

See my full review of the Biktrix Moto e-bike here .

Biktrix Moto quick specs:

  • Motor:  Bafang 750W continuous hub motor (peak power not published)
  • Top speed:  25 mph (40 km/h) but can be limited to Class 2 speeds
  • Range:  Up to 100 miles (160 km) with two batteries
  • Battery:  48V 21Ah (1,008 Wh) in each battery (two possible)
  • Weight:  90 lb (41 kg)
  • Price: $2,299

biktrix moto

Ride1Up REVV1 FS

This full-suspension electric moped-style e-bike is a masterclass in high performance electric bike design. Sure, it’s an obvious SUPER73 imitation, but it’s a really well done imitation.

It handles well, it’s got great rubber between you and the road, the suspension gives a comfortable ride, and it’s got plenty of extra power.

Despite the 750W label, the e-bike can be unlocked to make use of nearly 1,500W of peak power. I was able to reach a top speed of 37 mph (59.5 km/h) during my testing (not on public streets!).

But the bike ships in Class 2 mode with a 750W limit and 20 mph (32 km/h) maximum speed, meaning you’ll have to contact the company to request an unlock for the bike to be used above Class 2 speeds and power levels.

All in all, the $2,395 Ride1Up REVV1 FS is an amazing e-bike for anyone who wants a moped-style ride with full-suspension, high quality 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes and a design that rides almost like a motorcycle, yet in a bike form factor.

Check out my complete Ride1Up REVV1 FS review here .

Ride1Up REVV1 quick specs:

  • Motor:  Bafang 750W continuous hub motor
  • Top speed:  20 mph (32 km/h) out of the box, 37 mph (59.5 km/h) when unlocked
  • Battery:  52V 20Ah (1,040 Wh)
  • Weight:  93 lb (42 kg)
  • Price: $2,395

ride1up revv1

Tern Quick Haul

The Tern Quick Haul is an electric cargo bike from the famed cargo e-bike company Tern. It holds the distinction of being the most affordable model in Tern’s lineup.

That says a lot, because Tern is known for its high quality e-bikes that are built to be ridden every day for real world errands, carpool duty and more. These e-bikes are meant to replace cars, and they do just that for many riders. With a huge list of accessories, you can outfit a Quick Haul for just about any job.

The Tern Quick Haul features a mid-drive Bosch motor, hydraulic disc brakes, Tern’s vertical parking rack, and a relatively lightweight but high utility design that is meant to carry just about anything in your life.

We had the chance to test a pair of Quick Hauls at Eurobike in Frankfurt last year, which you can learn more about here.

Motor:  Bosch Active Line Plus mid-drive motor Top speed:  20 mph (32 km/h) with pedal assist (no throttle) Range:  Up to 60 miles (96 km), less when riding in highest power Battery:  400Wh, removable/lockable Weight:  50 lb (22.8 kg) Price : $2,999

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Ariel Rider X-Class

When it comes to fast, powerful electric mopeds on a budget, it’s hard to compete with the $2,399 Ariel Rider X-Class . This is the e-bike I usually recommend when someone simply wants the most power and speed for the least amount of money.

The impressive performance comes from a powerful 1,000W motor that actually puts out closer to 2,000W of peak power. It can be limited to 20 mph if you’d like, but I got it up to 36 mph in unlimited mode.

The bike rolls on 20″ moto-style wheels and comes with nice parts including hydraulic disc brakes, a bench seat, dual suspension, and a big moto-style headlight.

You can see my full review of the Ariel Rider 52V X-Class here .

  • Motor:  1,000W (2,000W peak) rear hub motor
  • Top speed:  36 mph (58 km/h), but can be limited to Class 2 speeds
  • Range:  Up to 75 miles (120 km), less when riding at top speed
  • Battery:  52V 18Ah (936 Wh), removable/lockable
  • Weight:  80 lb (36 kg)
  • Price : $2,399

Rad Power Bikes Rad Rover 6 Plus with accessories

Technically the Rad Rover 6 Plus is priced at $1,999 . And with its free shipping, it comes in under the $2k mark. But I’m including it in the $2k-$3k category because you’re going to want to add a couple of important accessories to this one.

Rad Power Bikes has one of the widest arrays of e-bike accessories on the planet . In fact, it might have THE widest selection. And I’d highly recommend adding the rear rack ($79) to the RadRover 6 Plus, at the very least. It simply adds even more utility and turns an adventure bike into an adventure/hauling bike.

Accessories aside, the RadRover 6 Plus is an awesome ride and packs in some real value. It is the highest-spec e-bike in Rad’s lineup and includes hydraulic disc brakes, redesigned suspension fork, an upgraded frame with a new semi-integrated battery, new displays that are easier to read and use, and so much more.

This is absolutely an e-bike that is worth checking out for anyone that does adventure-style riding and needs big tires combined with high power, and who wants the support and comfort provided by going with North America’s largest e-bike company.

Check out my full RadRover 6 Plus review here .

RadRover 6 Plus quick specs:

  • Range:  45-72 km (25-45 mi) depending on throttle or pedal assist
  • Weight:  33.3 kg (73.4 lb)

Above $3.5k, you’re entering some seriously dedicated e-bike territory.

These e-bikes either feature top-shelf components like drivetrain and brake parts, or pack in so much power that they couldn’t possibly be priced any lower.

Either way, you’re not in Kansas anymore. You’re heading down the e-bike rabbit hole.

Tern is renowned for building high-quality electric bikes that double down on utility features. The newly updated Tern HSD is the company’s more affordable utility e-bike, offering many features you’ll find on its higher end GSD but at a price that more riders can stomach.

The HSD uses small 20″ wheels and includes a folding stem, making it nice and compact. But taking it one step further, Tern outfitted it with its innovative rack that lets you park the bike on its tail, meaning it takes up barely more space than a coat rack in the corner of a room.

The bike’s Bosch mid-drive and high capacity batteries provide a high-end e-bike drive, and they are matched with a variety of performance drivetrain options that you can select from, depending on how high you want to spec the bike.

Whether you’re ferrying around kids or buying a week’s worth of groceries, the HSD is a solid option.

Check out my detailed first ride experience on the Tern HSD here .

Tern HSD quick specs:

  • Motor:  Bosch Active Line Plus mid-drive
  • Top speed:  32 km/h (20 mph) with electric assist
  • Range:  42-110 km (26-69 mi) depending on pedal input
  • Battery:  Bosch PowerPack 400 Wh
  • Weight : 25.4 kg (55.9 lb)
  • Price:  $4,299

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CSC FT1000MD

The CSC FT1000MD sounds like a motorcycle name because it comes from a company with motorcycle heritage. CSC Ebikes was born out of CSC Motorcycles, a company with several decades of two-wheeler experience.

The FT1000MD is the company’s highest power option. The fat tire e-bike comes with a 1,000+ watt motor known as the Bafang M620 Ultra. It’s the most powerful and highest torque e-bike mid-drive motor on the retail market. CSC paired it with a big battery, quality suspension, hydraulic brakes, built-in lighting, and more to create a high performance and high-quality adventure e-bike.

I was able to hit speeds of around 34 mph with the motor in unlocked format, though you can limit it to 20 or 28 mph to fit into class 2 and class 3 designations.

Check out my full review of this incredibly powerful e-bike here .

CSC FT1000MD quick specs:

  • Motor:  1,000W continuous Bafang M620 mid-drive
  • Top speed: 54 km/h (34 mph) when unlocked
  • Battery:  48V 16Ah (768Wh) with Samsung 35E cells
  • Frame:  6061 aluminum
  • Suspension:  Front suspension fork with preload and damping adjustment, plus lockout
  • Brakes:  Tektro hydraulic disc brakes with 180 mm rotors
  • Weight : 34 kg (75 lb)
  • Price:  $3,299 or save $200 with discount code ELECTREK

csc ft1000md electric bike

Ariel Rider Grizzly

When it comes to all-wheel-drive electric bikes, the $3,299 Ariel Rider Grizzly is one of my favorites.

This incredible e-bike is really more of a small electric motorcycle. It uses two high-power motors – one in each wheel – to offer speeds in the mid-30s and acceleration that will get you there in the blink of an eye.

Full suspension and hydraulic disc brakes make this an e-bike that handles well at any speed, and the bright red paint job looks as aggressive as the e-bike feels. It even comes with footpegs pre-installed so you can carry a passenger with you.

Plus it’s got double batteries to feed those two power-hungry motors, so you’ll be able to ride this e-bike pretty darn far too, as long as you aren’t too demanding from the throttle.

Check out my full in-depth review of the epic Ariel Rider Grizzly e-bike here .

Ariel Rider Grizzly quick specs:

  • Motors:  Dual 1,000W continuous hub motors (1,850W peak or 3.7 kW combined)
  • Top speed:  36 mph (58 km/h) when unlocked, but can be limited to Class 2 speeds
  • Battery:  52V 35Ah (1,820 Wh) between two removable/lockable batteries
  • Weight:  105 lb (47.6 kg)

Specialized Turbo Como SL

For more of a cruiser/city e-bike experience, the $4,800 Specialized Turbo Como SL is a great option. This e-bike offers a much more upright ride for a fun, relaxed vibe.

The e-bike features a high-quality mid-drive motor, hydraulic disc brakes, Gates carbon belt drive, and an eight-speed internally geared hub. Those are a lot of nice parts!

And don’t forget the slim fenders, front basket, and cruiser bars that all look super elegant, complimenting the nice lines of the Turbo Como SL.

This may not be a low-cost e-bike, but it definitely offers a ride that makes it worth it.

See my full review of the Specialized Turbo Como SL here .

Specialized Turbo Como SL quick specs:

  • Motor:  Custom Specialized SL1.1 mid-drive motor
  • Range:  Up to 100 km (62 mi), or 50% more with range extender
  • Battery:  Downtube-integrated 320 Wh battery
  • Weight : 20.5 kg (45 lb.)
  • Price:   $4,800

If you’ve been looking for a high-end trekking electric bike that was built with a combination of high-quality parts and the latest technology, look no further than the $4,550 Greyp T5.

There’s a reason why Porsche bought this e-bike company – it’s simply one of the best.

It uses Greyp’s own in-house developed 700 Wh battery combined with a mid-drive motor to offer a hardtail trekking e-bike. In addition to the awesome bike design, the built-in tech is what really opens people’s eyes. Integrated cameras at the front and rear of the bike can serve as dash cams or livestream your rides. Plus you can capture all of your ride footage on the bike instead of bringing along a Go-Pro camera.

There’s also an app that allows you to take full advantage of the built-in eSIM card, giving you connectivity to the bike and letting you check all your vital stats, find its location, and more – right from your phone.

The bike is truly a high-end offering by itself, but the embedded tech makes it a rarity in any category.

See my first ride review of the Greyp T5 e-bike here .

Best electric bikes above $5,000

You just couldn’t stop, could you? I showed you plenty of awesome e-bikes that didn’t cost most of a paycheck. But you just haaaaaaad to keep going.

Fine, here they are. These are some of the most expensive e-bikes out there that we’ve tested and that I’d actually recommend someone buying, if you can pony up the cash.

Fuell Flluid-2 and Flluid-3

The $5,495 Fuell Flluid-2 and Flluid-3 are great examples of what happens when a motorcycle designer applies his tradecraft to a smaller platform, creating an e-bike built to a higher standard.

The Fuell Flluid’s smooth mid-drive motor with built-in gearbox and Gates carbon belt drive setup combine to make an ultra-responsive and polished electric powertrain. The two removable batteries built into special cutouts in the frame offer long-range riding without looking like a packhorse carrying massive batteries.

The e-bike is nearly maintenance-free thanks to the belt drive and hydraulic disc brakes. The duo removes the two most common maintenance issues with bikes: chain wear and brake adjustment.

Flying fast at 28 mph (45 km/h) is a blast, and doing it on a smooth-riding e-bike with Pirelli tires is even better. Then add in the ultra-bright lights, built-in fenders and rear rack, the suspension seat post, color LCD screen and other niceties, and now you’re left with a high-end e-bike that could serve you for years as a daily commuter e-bike designed for nearly maintenance-free high mileage riding. The only downside is that the bike is quite heavy at 36 kg (79 lb). But you can’t expect all these great parts and dual batteries on a featherweight bike!

Check out my full review of the Fuell Flluid here .

Fuell Flluid quick specs:

  • Motor:  750-1,000W rated Valeo mid-drive motor with built-in gearbox
  • Range:  Up to 200 km (125 mi) with dual batteries (though Fuell-3 has just a single battery)
  • Brakes:  Tektro hydraulic disc brakes on 180 mm rotors
  • Weight:  36 kg (79 lb)
  • Price: $5,495

fuell flluid electric bike

GoCycle G4i+

When it comes to ultra-premium folding electric bikes, there’s only one name that comes to my mind: GoCycle. These are the most impressive folding e-bikes I’ve ever seen. And they better be – they were designed by a former McLaren engineer.

Between the carbon fiber work, single-sided wheels, high-tech tires, trippy LED dot display, innovative rear suspension, and completely enclosed drivetrain, there’s a lot of high-end stuff going on here.

The speed will vary from 15-20 mph depending on which country you buy the bike in, but the performance is only part of the equation. The quick folding and light, compact design of the e-bike is the real winner here.

Check out my full review of the GoCycle G4i+ here .

GoCycle G4i+ quick specs:

  • Motor:  500W front hub motor
  • Top speed:  20 mph (32 km/h) in the US
  • Range:  up to 50 miles (80 km)
  • Battery:  36V 10.4Ah (375 Wh)
  • Weight : 37.2 lb (16.9 kg)
  • Price:   $6,999

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Serial 1 RUSH/CTY SPEED

Serial 1, the electric bicycle company that spun out of Harley-Davidson, has several awesome electric bike models. While most fall under the $5,000 mark, I’m going to recommend their top of the line model: The $5,599 Serial 1 RUSH/CTY SPEED . If you’re in the market to buy a Serial 1 e-bike, you might as well go for the best.

Like all of Serial 1’s e-bikes, it’s got a great design and ridability. Serial 1 scored top e-bike designers from companies like Trek, so they know how to build an awesome bike with killer geometry. They also brought in the Harley-Davidson LiveWire electric motorcycle engineers to build the custom battery, so it’s top of the line too. Then they used pro parts like the Brose mid-drive and Gates carbon belt drive setup. Basically, it’s an incredible e-bike. And with a 28 mph (45 km/h) top speed plus a huge 706 Wh battery to ride all day, the performance matches the build.

Serial 1 even goes above and beyond with their own custom weight bearing fenders that also happen to be functional racks (both in the front and rear), their own custom designed lights that throw serious illumination up front and give you great rear visibility from dropout-mounted lights, and there’s even a glovebox in the bike!

Basically, there’s a lot to like here. Yes, it’s expensive. But you’re not just paying for the H-D name on the side. It’s actually a high quality, high performance electric bike regardless of the badging.

Check out my full first ride on the various Serial 1 e-bike models here .

Motor:  High torque Brose TF MAG mid-drive motor Top speed (tested):  45 km/h (28 mph) Battery:  706 Wh Serial 1 custom battery Range:  25-115 miles (40-185 km), likely more in the 30-50 miles range with normal riding Weight:  26.7 kg (59 lb) Price:   $5,599

FREY EX Pro electric mountain bike

The FREY EX Pro is a high-end electric mountain bike with crazy high power. It uses the same motor as the CSC FT1000MD we featured above (the Bafang M620 mid-drive), but cranks up the current to provide closer to 1,500W of power.

It’s enough to destroy chains if you aren’t careful. We know. Several of us here at Electrek have done it.

The FREY EX Pro not only features high-end parts like a RockShox Lyric fork and Magura MT5e hydraulic brakes, but it even comes with dual batteries so you can ride farther and stay on the trails longer.

I’ve personally taken this e-bike back UP a downhill mountain bike course – that’s how powerful it is.

It may be expensive, but it saves you several thousand dollars compared to many European electric mountain bikes with similar components but a fraction of the power in the FREY.

See my full review of the FREY EX Pro here .

  • Motor:  1 kW continuous, 1.5 kW peak-rated Bafang Ultra mid-drive motor
  • Top speed (tested):  59 km/h (36 mph)
  • Battery:  Dual 48V 14Ah packs (1,344 Wh total)
  • Range:  Varies  considerably  by ride style/terrain, but 30-100 km (20-60 miles) is the ballpark
  • Weight:  34 kg (75 lb)
  • Price:   $5,580

Top comment by RedWrench

1–I have a Lectric XPLite. It’s great to load in the SUV or RV with my wife’s Liberty Trike, which weighs only 50 lbs AND comes apart into two 25-lb pieces. Easy on my old back! The new RAD and Lectric trikes are good, I’m sure, but would be unusable for me. Too heavy.

2–RE: the importance of the sub-$1000 list…I think this also applies to some of the Chinese EV cars, the 50-mph, low-priced category. If brought here, or built here, they’d allow far more people to get into an EV, as a primary city car, or even a suburban 2nd car.

The Tern GSD improves upon the Tern HSD with even more capability and even nicer components. There are multiple versions that can take you up to nearly $10k, but even the lower-tier versions are not “low tier,” if you know what I mean.

Parts like automatically engaging electric locks, 10-speed Shimano Deore transmissions, Magura MT5e quad-piston hydraulic disc brakes, and more set these e-bikes apart from the rest of the pack.

If you’re getting a Tern GSD, you’re getting a fully qualified car replacement. There are many people that use these instead of buying a second car. When you look at it like that, the price suddenly seems pretty reasonable.

Check out our full review of the Tern GSD here .

  • Motor:  Bosch Cargo Line mid-drive
  • Range:  42-85 km (26-53 mi) depending on pedal input
  • Weight : 33.6 kg (74 lb)
  • Price : $5,399

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

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Micah Toll is a personal electric vehicle enthusiast, battery nerd, and author of the Amazon #1 bestselling books DIY Lithium Batteries , DIY Solar Power,   The Ultimate DIY Ebike Guide  and The Electric Bike Manifesto .

The e-bikes that make up Micah’s current daily drivers are the $999 Lectric XP 2.0 , the $1,095 Ride1Up Roadster V2 , the $1,199 Rad Power Bikes RadMission , and the $3,299 Priority Current . But it’s a pretty evolving list these days.

You can send Micah tips at [email protected], or find him on Twitter , Instagram , or TikTok .

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IMAGES

  1. Find Your Bike's Serial Number (For Bike Index or to Sell Your Bike

    trek bikes serial number lookup

  2. How Do You Read a Trek Bike Serial Number

    trek bikes serial number lookup

  3. How To Read Trek Serial Number

    trek bikes serial number lookup

  4. How To Read Trek Serial Number

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  5. What Year is My Trek Bike by Serial Number?

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  6. Trek Bike Serial Number Chart

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COMMENTS

  1. Bike Registration

    Register a new bike. Registration is a quick and easy way to protect your new-bike investment. It provides a record of your serial number in case your bike is ever lost or stolen, and will help us get in touch with you with important product information. Enter bike's serial number. Find bike.

  2. Trek Bike Serial Number Lookup

    Vintage Trek Bike Serial Number Lookup. Trek has been in business for a long time, and many still have vintage Trek bikes dating back to the 1970s. To establish a database of serial numbers and to decode them, a survey of more than 200 Trek owners revealed how Trek serial numbers were utilised on bikes from around 1976 to before the late 1980s.

  3. Vintage Trek Bicycle Frame Serial Numbers, bike

    The SN was located on the bottom of the bottom bracket. A second serial number is 81765. According to the Trek-provided SN list, this corresponds to a 22" (22.5") Model 400 frame made in 1983. This SN form is for frames/bikes made in the US The number was marked on the bottom of the bottom bracket.

  4. What year is my trek bike by serial number: Decoding Serial Numbers

    Two-digit prefix (e.g., 87, 92): These serial numbers are commonly found on Trek bikes made before the 1990s. The first two digits typically indicate the year of manufacture. For example, a serial number beginning with '87' would signify a bike made in 1987. Three-digit prefix (e.g., WTU, 999): Trek bikes produced in the 1990s and early ...

  5. Trek Bike Serial Number Decode: Unveiling the Secrets Behind Your

    The Frame Size Revelation. The first few characters in the serial number can reveal the frame size of your Trek bike. For instance, if your serial number starts with "WTU," it indicates that you have a bike with a standard frame size. If it starts with "WSD," it means you own a Women's Specific Design frame, tailored for female riders.

  6. Identify Bike By Serial Number

    To perform a lookup of a bike serial number, you need to go to one of the websites mentioned above and enter the bike's serial number. The bike index site will provide you search field that you can input the bike serial number into. Then all you have to do next is hit search, and the index will provide you with a list of matches.

  7. How Do I Tell What Year My Trek Bike Is?

    To determine the year of your Trek bike, first, locate the serial number on the frame. The serial number can usually be found on the bottom bracket. Once you have the serial number, contact Trek customer support or use their online serial number lookup tool to get the manufacturing year. 2.

  8. How To Find Model/Year Of Vintage Trek Bike By Serial Number

    I show how to use the serial number of a 1976-1986 Trek bicycle to identify the year and model of the bike.Here is the website I used:http://www.vintage-trek...

  9. How to register your Trek bike

    19 April, 2021. Every Trek owner should register their bike. This action activates the warranty and makes a record of the purchase, which could help with recovery if the bike is ever lost or stolen. It takes two minutes and it's completely free, and it's as simple as turning your bike sideways to find the serial number on the underside of ...

  10. Bike Registration

    Register a new bike. Registration is a quick and easy way to protect your new-bike investment. It provides a record of your serial number in case your bike is ever lost or stolen, and will help us get in touch with you with important product information. Enter bike's serial number. Find bike.

  11. How Do You Read a Trek Bike Serial Number

    The first place to look for your Trek mountain bike's serial number is on the bottom of the frame, near the crankset. If there's no serial number there, check under the bottom bracket or on the head tube. If you still can't find it, take a look at the rear dropouts. On some models, the serial number is stamped into one of the dropouts.

  12. What Year is My Trek Bike by Serial Number?

    Trek bicycle serial numbers contain some helpful information, and one of these is the year a specific bike was made. If your unit has a 13-character serial, all you have to do is look at the last character. This letter will correspond with a specific year. D stands for 2009, and R is for 2021; you can count forward or backward to identify what ...

  13. Bike Registration

    Register a new bike. Registration is a quick and easy way to protect your new-bike investment. It provides a record of your serial number in case your bike is ever lost or stolen, and will help us get in touch with you with important product information. Enter bike's serial number. Find bike.

  14. Product Support

    Contact customer support. The answers to all of your questions about Trek, our products, and how to enjoy your bike even more.

  15. Bike Serial Number: What It Is, Where to Find, & Lookup

    The location of your bike's serial number would also depend on its age. For newer bikes, it's located on the underside of the bottom bracket shell or near the cranks. Also, check your head tube and seat tube. But bikes built before the mid-1999 will have the serial number stamped on the drive-side dropout.

  16. How can I tell what year my bike was made?

    Bicycles (except children's bicycles) are almost always required to have a frame or serial number. Some manufacturers use a date-code as part of the serial number. For example, a Brompton uses YYMMXXX as their serial code, so a Brompton with a serial number of 1306 123456 was manufactured in 2013.06 or June 2013.

  17. PDF Bike%Serial%Number WTU002T5017H WTU002T5029H WTU003T5039H

    wtu102ct5005g wtu102ct5025g wtu102ct5026g wtu102ct5027g wtu102ct5029g wtu102ct5036g wtu102ct5037g wtu102ct5038g wtu102ct5039g wtu102ct5040g wtu102ct5041g

  18. Find Your Bike Make, Model and Serial Number!

    A bicycle's model number or serial number is a unique code engraved onto the bike's frame by the manufacturer for identification purposes. In most cases a bike's serial number will be a string of numeric digits, however, it's not uncommon to find a bicycle with an alphanumeric code as its model number. Photo Credited by Wikipedia Commons.

  19. Vintage Trek Bikes- Information on Steel Road Bicycles made by the Trek

    Trek made a total of 7929 720 and 728 bikes and frames (number calculated by Mitch Hawker). (Note: Trek ran out of model numbers; don't confuse these touring 720s with the 1990-1999 Model 720 MultiTrack bikes.) The Model 170, arguably Trek's best steel racing frame, was available during the period 1983 to 1985.

  20. Serial number lookup? : r/TrekBikes

    Serial number lookup? Hey everyone, Not sure if this is the right spot, but I was looking for help in identifying my specific model year for my Trek 2200. Serial number is WIU A015269 R (Might be WTU). From what I gleaned online, possibly a 2006? Any guidance on decoding would be appreciated. 2. Add a Comment.

  21. BikeChecker

    BikeChecker is a FREE service for people purchasing second-hand bikes who wish to check the status of a bike on the BikeRegister Database. Enter a frame number or unique BikeRegister marking to search. Thieves often try to sell on stolen bikes in the quickest and easiest way. This can often be through classified ad sites or indeed 2nd hand bike ...

  22. Bike Registration

    Register a new bike. Registration is a quick and easy way to protect your new-bike investment. It provides a record of your serial number in case your bike is ever lost or stolen, and will help us get in touch with you with important product information. Enter bike's serial number. Find bike.

  23. The best electric bikes you can buy at every price level in May 2024

    Velotric has a number of interesting e-bikes in its lineup and I'm enjoying testing several of the companies new models. ... Serial 1 scored top e-bike designers from companies like Trek, so ...

  24. Trek Bike Finder

    Trek bike finder Find a bike shop Bike tours Inside Trek. Heritage Technology Racing Social responsibility Stories Sustainability Work at Trek Podcast Events Support. Customer service Contact us Newsletter signup Returns Shipping & delivery Home delivery Warranty How to shop safely