TREK ROSCOE 9 REVIEW

Review by JP Purdom | Photos by Sam Noble

When it comes to mountain bikes, it’s no secret that a lot of people are on the overbiked end of the spectrum, or perhaps relying on their suspension to get them down a trail instead of their technical ability. Hardcore hardtails offer a solution to this, maintaining the stability required to go fast but giving a little less forgiveness that allows riders to separate out their skills from the ability of the bike and improve their riding. It shaves off the cost of a more complex frame plus a rear shock in the process, bringing this capability to a more budget-conscious demographic. The all-new Roscoe is Trek’s most recent answer to an affordable all-around mountain bike, specifically designed to get more people having fun on the trails. The Roscoe is simplicity driven, featuring dependable components, aggressive geo, and of course, no rear shock. Make no mistakes though; with 29” wheels, 2.6” tires, and 140mm of fork travel, the Roscoe is no slouch when it comes to rugged terrain. We were excited to find out how exactly how capable it was out on the trails around Bend, OR.

• 29 x 2.6″ Tires • HTA: 65° • STA: 73.1° • REACH: 470 (Large)

Price: $2,699/£2,200 Website:   Trekbikes.com

THE LAB Like most modern bikes, the Trek Roscoe follows the trend of long and slack with a relatively steep seat tube. This allows for better handling in the rough and better positioning on the climb. Roscoe’s sizing ranges from XS to XL to suit riders from 137cm to 196cm (4’5”-6’2”), with the XS size equipped with 27.5 wheels to better fit shorter riders. Quite a unique and very welcome addition to the size range is the “ML”, which forms a middle ground between the medium and large that should help to avoid quite so much deliberation between the two for riders who sit awkwardly in that size range. The reach on our Large was 470mm and pairs to a generous 644mm stack. The angles are shared across the size range, with a 65° head angle and a 74.7° effective seat tube angle. These numbers don’t take into account the fact that it’s a hardtail and therefore the angles steepen when on the bike, giving a slightly more upright climbing position but quicker steering than you may expect. A 6.1mm static BB drop (4.5mm on XS) and 430mm chainstays round out the numbers, giving a suitably all-rounded mentality.

Helping to keep the retail price down, the Trek Roscoe is only offered in their Alpha Gold Aluminum. The frame features a tapered head tube, internal cable routing with guides within the frame, ISCG 05 tabs, a threaded BB, and Boost 148 spacing. Trek paid attention to the frame protection, with good coverage on the chainstay and a generous downtube guard. Within the front triangle you can run two bottles thanks to the provided mounts. The Roscoe is offered in 4 different build kits ranging from $1149.99 to $2699.99. Trek says the Roscoe is the perfect choice for the rider who wants to get out and enjoy some gnarly terrain, without the maintenance and cost of a full suspension bike and backs it with their Lifetime frame warranty.

The Roscoe 9 we tested came equipped with some of the industry’s most reliable, robust, and affordable parts. The Fox Rhythm 36 comes equipped with the easy-to-tune GRIP damper, as well as the tried-and-true EVOL air spring. The XT derailleur and SLX shifter provide seamless shifting across the SLX 10-51t 12-speed cassette. E*Thirteen supplies a Helix crank with 30t steel chainring and a discrete upper chainguide to keep the chain firmly in place. The Roscoe 9 features quad piston Shimano M6120 Brakes, which should provide plenty of power, especially when matched with a 203mm rotor up front and a 180mm in the rear. Trek chose the TranzX Dropper post, which ranges from 100-150mm, depending on frame size – a 150mm length for sizes ML and above. The rest of our Roscoe 9 came outfitted with Trek’s own Bontrager components, most notably the grippy XR4 tires and Line 30 wheels.

THE DIRT As a staunch downhill and enduro rider, I was very skeptical of the way an aggressive hardtail would handle the trail. After spending a few weeks on board, the Roscoe, all I can say is, “wow”. The Roscoe’s reasonably slack head angle, healthy reach and 140mm fork make this bike extremely capable of tackling everything from flow trails to rock shoots. There were times when I completely forgot I was riding a hardtail because of how comfortable the body positioning is on this bike. The cornering ability is next level, thanks to the balanced geometry and aggressive 2.6” tires. I never found myself washing around in a turn, even in the dry, dusty conditions here in Bend. In the air, the Roscoe is balanced and predictable, even at high speeds.

It was obvious to me that the Roscoe was much more capable downhill than I would have ever imagined; then, when I finished a lap and turned around to pedal back up, I was pleasantly surprised by the comfort and efficiency of the Roscoe’s climbing position. The 74.7-degree effective seat tube angle makes the Roscoe a joy to pedal, and with the large size build weighing in at just under 30lbs, it gets up the hill without any issues. The XR4’s does a good job at clawing their way up terrain that seems impossibly loose, finding unexpected traction on a number of occasions.

The spec sheet on the Roscoe 9 was also impeccable. The shifting was perfect throughout, the brakes suitably powerful, the tires offered incredible traction, and the price seems pretty spot on given the quality components all round. For an experienced rider, based on Trek’s build sheet, I probably wouldn’t shoot for the Roscoe 6 (which is designed for beginner riders anyways); however, the 7 level and above offer parts more suited for an experienced rider and are available at extremely reasonable prices.

The only real qualms I had with the Roscoe were the grips and the bars – items riders will often look to swap out anyway to get that customised fit. The angles on the bars put a strain on my wrists, causing them to hurt after a good bit of saddle time. The back-sweep, combined with notoriously stiff 35mm aluminum construction, made a bit of discomfort on my first ride. The grips weren’t a significant complaint for me, but I don’t like to wear gloves when I ride, and the Roscoe grips aren’t necessarily suited for sweaty palms. That said, these are minor details on an otherwise dialled ride.

The Wolf’s Last Word

Price: – $2,699/£2,200 Weight: 29.6 lbs Website:   Trekbikes.com

SPECIFICATIONS

CHASSIS Frame: Alpha Gold Aluminum Fork: Fox Rhythm 36, Float EVOL, GRIP | 140mm

COCKPIT Brakes: Shimano M6120 4-piston Handlebar: Bontrager Line, 35mm, 27.5mm rise, 780mm Stem: Bontrager Elite, 35mm, 0 degree, 45mm length Headset: FSA IS-2 Saddle: Bontrager Arvada Seatpost: TranzX JD-YSP18 | 150mm

WHEELS Rims: Bontrager Line Comp 30 Hubs: Bontrager alloy Tires: Bontrager XR4 Team Issue | 29×2.6″

DRIVETRAIN Bottom Bracket: Shimano SM-BB52 Cassette: Shimano SLX M7100, 10-51, 12 speed Cranks: E*thirteen Helix, 30T | 170mm Shifter: Shimano SLX M7100, 12 speed Derailleur: Shimano XT M8100, long cage

Surprisingly capable Balanced geometry Comfortable climbing position Reasonable price

We don’t, minor spec niggles sore ankles, leave a comment | win free stuff.

Want to win some free schwag? Leave a comment and vote up the most thoughtful comments and each month we’ll pick a winner. The person with the smartest and most helpful replies will earn some sweet new gear. Join the Pack and get the latest news and read the latest reviews on the top  mountain  and  electric mountain bikes .

Shop in-store for even more deals!

Shop in store for even more deals we can't advertise!

Bike Service

Mountain Bike Suspension Service

Mountain Bike Suspension Service

Trade In Your Bike

Trade in your bike

  • Base Layers
  • Mountain Bike Shorts
  • Bibs, Tights + Knickers
  • Mountain Bike Shoes

SAFETY GEAR

  • Adult Helmets
  • Youth Helmets
  • Road Helmets
  • Casual Wear
  • Road Bike Shorts
  • Bibs, Tights & Knickers
  • Road Bike Shoes
  • Accessories/Parts

Safety Gear

  • Women's Helmets
  • Road Bike Helmets
  • Mountain Bike Helmets

WHEELS & TIRES

  • Road Wheels
  • Mountain Bike Wheels
  • Mountain Bike Tires
  • Wheels Accessories and Parts
  • Derailleurs
  • Chains & Cassettes
  • Cranks and Chainrings
  • Bottom Brackets
  • Cables and Housing
  • Power Meters

BRAKES & PEDALS

  • Clipless Pedals
  • Flat Pedals
  • Mountain Bike Brake Sets
  • Mountain Bike Brake Pads
  • Road Bike Brakes and Pads
  • All Brakes/Levers/Pads

Forks & Cockpit

  • Grips and Bar Tape
  • Rigid Forks
  • Suspension Forks

Accessories

  • Car Rack Accessories
  • Electronics
  • Front Lights
  • Tail Lights
  • Locks/Security
  • Media/Resources
  • Bicycle Mounted Racks
  • Pumps/Inflation
  • Tools/Maintenance
  • Trailers/Strollers
  • Trainers/Rollers
  • Travel/Storage
  • Water Bottles & Cages

Brand Guides

Bike buyer's guides, gear guides, new bike releases, summit bicycles online (855) 245-3663 [email protected] email, burlingame (650) 343-8483 [email protected] email, summit outfitters (408) 878-3252 [email protected] email, los gatos (408) 399-9142 [email protected] email, san jose (408) 264-2453 [email protected] email, palo alto (650) 304-0035 [email protected] email, summit bicycles mobile we'll come to you schedule mobile service today, (855) bike-one - for online orders and rental inquiries.

  • Account Account
  • Subtotal : $ 0.00 Checkout Cart
  • Bicycling Catalog
  • 29-Inch Wheel (29ers)

Trek Roscoe 9

Trek Roscoe 9

Roscoe 9 is our best trail hardtail, built for lap after lap of dirt-filled fun. A 140mm FOX Rhythm 36 fork, powerful 4-piston brakes, and a fast-and-grippy wheel and tire combo deliver awesome capability whether you're nailing jumps or picking through gnarly rock gardens. It's right for you if... You love the serious fun and connected feel a hardtail brings to the trail, and you want one that’s spec’d with top-notch parts that love rough and tumble runs as much as you do. The tech you get A lightweight aluminum frame, a 140mm FOX Rhythm fork with beefy 36mm stanchions, a Shimano SLX/XT 1x12 drivetrain with a wide range of gears for climbing, powerful 4-piston brakes, and a dropper post for room to get low on descents, corners, and jumps. Plus, fast-rolling 29er wheels and wide, grippy 2.6" tires. The final word Rip laps, catch air, and crush techy descents on our best hardtail. Of all the rad parts on this bike, the FOX Rhythm 36 fork is the best upgrade—it’s capable of soaking up even the roughest lines. - 29er wheels and wide 2.6" tires make for a grippy, confident, and fast-rolling ride - Bigger, stiffer 36mm fork stanchions won't flex, so you can push harder with more precise, confident steering that helps you stay on your line - The FOX fork's air spring can easily be adjusted for a specific rider weight, and it's lighter than a coil spring - The dropper post lets you lower your saddle on the fly, so it's out of the way on descents

bike frame with labeled dimensions

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

* Subject to change without notice.

Part Numbers

Trek Roscoe 9 Color: Matte Quicksand to Olive Fade/Black

Trek Roscoe 9

  • Trek Roscoe 9 review

by Daz Hall February 3, 2022 2

  • Price: £700 frame only, £2,300 as tested
  • From: trekbikes.com
  • Tested by: Darren Hall

Trek Roscoe 9

The Trek Roscoe 9 features in our ‘Going to unextremes’ bike test

The Roscoe comes in three flavours, the 7, 8, and top spec 9 on test here. All three models share the same Alpha Gold aluminium Boost frame featuring ISCG mounts, a threaded BB, and internal routing for both gear and dropper cables. It’s a shame all colours aren’t available across the models as the splattered Matte Quicksand/Olive Fade/Black colour reminds me of a particularly horrific paint job my parents did on our kitchen in the ’80s, and it would be good to have more than the crimson alternative. The lack of colour options is more than mitigated by 12-speed SLX/XT/e*thirteen drivetrain and 4-piston Shimano brakes, and at £2,300 this won’t break the bank either. I know there’s a big debate around what represents good value in these inflation-fuelled times, but it doesn’t take much effort to find similar bikes at higher prices, and if this is too much then the lower spec 7 and 8 models provide excellent opportunities for saving money at £1,400 and £2,000 respectively.

trek roscoe 9 usa

At 5ft 9in tall I often suffer from frame size anxiety as a result of straddling medium and large sizes so it’s good to see that the Roscoe adds a M/L size to the standard small, medium and large. The very short and very tall are also catered for with XS and XL versions, although the XS has 27.5 wheels to keep everything in sensible proportion. We’re testing a large here, which is slightly beyond Trek’s recommendations for my height, but those used to longer bikes will not find any issues with opting for the larger size, and this is made easier by the low-slung top tube which provides loads of standover clearance. Shorter riders may find it a little less obvious which size to choose, due to the significant overlap in recommended height between the M and M/L. I would always go for the larger size in this case, but a careful decision may be required if you’re in this range.

trek roscoe 9 usa

The frame itself is something of a beast. The oversized downtube and thick rear triangle provide a stiff and supportive base for ploughing through rocks and roots and maintaining control through the roughest of terrain, although this suggests the rider will need to cope with the physical demands of such a direct and unforgiving platform. If this isn’t a problem though and you’re up to the job of pushing the Roscoe to its limits, then the double side chainstay and downtube guards provide protection from flying rocks to prevent any damage. The rear brake caliper is also partially protected by what can only be described as a rather radical bend in the left chainstay to enable the caliper to be placed on the inside of the frame, although this does raise the possibility of interference with pedalling at the rear of the stroke. There was just enough clearance with my size 9 shoes to avoid any unwanted impacts or rubbing, but larger-footed riders might want to check this out.

trek roscoe 9 usa

If the geometry and overall burliness of the frame left any doubts as to the gnarly intentions of this bike, those can quickly be dispelled on consideration of the rest of the spec. It’s not unusual for trail bikes at around the 140mm travel category to opt to save some weight with 34mm forks so it’s good to see that Trek have resisted this with the addition of the thicker and stiffer Fox 36 Rhythms. Combined with the 30mm internal Bontrager Line Comp rims and bulky 2.6in XR4 tyres, the rider is left with little doubt that this bike wants to be ridden hard. All this meat does come with a weight penalty however, and at 13.9kg this can hardly be called lightweight for a hardtail. That really shouldn’t matter though for a trail bike which is clearly aimed at the more aggressive rider, and thankfully Trek seems to have considered this with the addition of the higher power four-pot Shimano M6120 brakes, and a twiddly 30T chainring to winch you to the top of the hill.

trek roscoe 9 usa

The first thing you notice when sitting on the Roscoe is that the uber-trail characteristics suggested by the geometry and the specs are even more in evidence when meeting it in person. This doesn’t quite qualify for the hardcore hardtail category, but the slack head angle, upright position and fat tyres have you instantly thinking about where the closest steep and rowdy trails might be. This isn’t a bike to be riding around forest roads or reservoirs with the family. Although if you were to do that, you’d possibly spend most of your time looking for cheeky unmarked trails and random opportunities to huck it off contrived drops and other obstacles. In fact, it’s so robust and confidence-inspiring you can probably ride it anywhere you like whether a trail exists or not. It’s quite literally a bike that can get you into trouble, in more ways than one.

trek roscoe 9 usa

When you do find some trails worthy of the Trek Roscoe, you’d best be ready to commit to them because the ride is somewhat unforgiving. On rough rocks and roots your thighs and core will receive a proper workout as they as they absorb the shocks that at the front are being sucked up by the excellent fork. For any skiers out there, it’s a bit like the first day on the slopes after a long lay-off. The large tyres compensate a little if you run the pressures low (< 20psi), but then you run the risk of dinging the rims so tyre inserts might be an advisable first upgrade. The stiffness does have its benefits though if you have the physique and athleticism to take the hits. Trail obstacles and debris are no match for the Roscoe, and the 36mm forks, tyres and frame combine to provide a bulldozer-like character if you have the confidence to take advantage. On the very steepest trails the 36 forks and head angle come into their own and the front wheel maintains traction very well if you don’t hang off the back, but it could possibly benefit from a longer dropper to keep the saddle out of the way and encourage you to keep the front wheel weighted.

trek roscoe 9 usa

On tamer terrain, the Trek Roscoe is no slouch either, and I was torn as to whether it prefers man-made or natural terrain. Hardtails are often my go-to option for trail centres and places where I know there’s a smoothish hard-packed surface, and the Roscoe excels in this environment as well as it does on the rougher stuff, albeit with a very different character. Here the wide tyres and the active Fox Rhythm forks smooth out bumps very effectively, providing a fast and flowing ride with little sign of the bone-jarring stiffness exhibited on more technical trails. It’s probably a little vague in the steering due to the head angle and length on the tight and twisting courses you’ll find at manmade areas, but a little effort in wrestling it around corners compensates for that and encourages you to ride the bike rather than acting as a passenger.

Given the previous comments about the Trek Roscoe aggressive and bulky character while going downhill, it won’t come as any surprise that I haven’t talked much about its climbing ability. Not that it’s terrible at going uphill. The stiffness of the frame, the weight and grip offered by the XR4 tyres, and the stable climbing position provided by the 74.5° seat angle will get you up pretty much anything, and the more technical the better. But you’ll need the power and fitness to do it with any type of speed. Most riders will take advantage of the twiddly 30×51 bottom gear, and that’s fine for most uses. The comfortably upright riding position will even facilitate long days in the saddle or marathons/enduros – just don’t expect to be breaking any records in the process.

As the most gnarly trail shredding bike in this test, it won’t surprise anyone that the Trek Roscoe is biased in favour of the rowdier type of riding. Aggressive, strong and physical riders are perfectly placed to get the best out of this bike, and it will reward those who like a full-body workout rather than simply testing their legs on fire road climbs and then recovering on descents. It also does just enough of the milder type of riding to make it an all-rounder in a loose sense of the word. Ride this bike enough, though, and those from the tamer end of the spectrum probably won’t stay there for very long as the Roscoe will either amplify or bring out the inner thug.

Check out all our mountain bike reviews

  • Frame: Alpha Gold Aluminium
  • Fork: Fox Rhythm 36, Float EVOL air spring, 140mm travel
  • Hubs: Bontrager Alloy, Boost 110/148mm
  • Rims: Bontrager Line Comp 30
  • Tyres: Bontrager XR4 Team Issue 29×2.6in
  • Chainset: e*thirteen Helix, 30T
  • Rear Mech: Shimano XT M8100
  • Shifter: Shimano SLX M7100, 12-speed
  • Cassette: Shimano SLX M7100, 10–51, 12-speed
  • Brakes: Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc
  • Stem: Bontrager Elite, 35 mm, 0-DEG, 45mm
  • Handlebars: Bontrager Line, alloy, 35mm, 27.5mm rise, 780mm width
  • Grips: Bontrager XR Trail Comp, nylon lock-on
  • Seatpost: TranzX JD-YSP18, 150 mm travel
  • Saddle: Bontrager Arvada, hollow chromoly rails
  • Size Tested: L
  • Sizes Available: XS, S, M,ML, L, XL
  • Weight: As Tested 13.9kg/30.6lb

See the complete data set for this model (Members only)

Trek Roscoe 9

Trek Roscoe 9 – The DATA

Trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs – the data, sonder dial gx eagle – the data, santa cruz bronson – the data, canyon neuron:on 9 – the data, boardman mtr 8.9 – the data, review info.

Daz got into mountain biking by accident, quite literally. After falling off a cliff in the Peak District while climbing and nearly killing himself, he decided something safer was probably a good idea, so bought a mountain bike some time around 2004. It sat in his flat unused for about 6 months until a mate bought one too, when a whole new world of excitement was discovered by pushing it up unrideable climbs, and falling off unrideable descents in the Peak District. In the rain. Fast forward 10 years, several bikes, countless injuries and scrapes, and a lot more fitness and skill later, his Mrs told him if he wanted any more bikes he had to buy a bigger house in which to put them. At which point he moved to Todmorden, and randomly bumped into a bunch of magazine types who have the good fortune to do this sort of thing for a living. Somewhere along the way he also acquired a masochistic love of winter endurance racing, and as a result can be found riding his bike on ‘training’ rides in the dark and the drizzle, when everyone else is huddled in front of their wood burner. This provides excellent bike and kit testing/breaking opportunities and we try to keep him busy doing just that.

  • This topic has 2 replies, 3 voices, and was last updated 11 months ago by weeksy .

Proper boost at last! I liked the look of previous ones but not the weird 141QR rear spacing they went for.

Anyone ever buy a Roscoe ? I’ve got one on my HMMM list currently for local stuff. Not sure if i’ll press the button but i was looking at a few HTs and this is enough i terms of travel/fun, but a better weight than the others i’d shortlisted (Orange Crush and Ragley Blue PIg).

You must be logged in to reply to this topic.

  • MAGAZINE OFFERS
  • BIKE INSURANCE
  • Best Products
  • Maintenance
  • Accessories
  • Long-Term Reviews
  • BikeRadar Podcast
  • First Look Friday
  • Bike of the Week
  • Tech Features
  • Routes and Rides
  • Bike Galleries
  • BikeRadar Bargains
  • Buyer's Guides
  • Fitness & Training
  • Sizing & Fit
  • Mountain Biking UK
  • Cycling Plus

Trek Roscoe 9 first ride review

Really well-sorted and enjoyable all-rounder

Mick Kirkman / Immediate Media

Guy Kesteven

trek roscoe 9 usa

Trek’s plus-tyred hardtail is a really fun and versatile, fully-featured package for the price.

  • Best mountain bike: how to choose the right one for you
  • Best mountain bike helmets for trail riding

Trek Roscoe 9 specifications

  • Frame: ‘Alpha Gold’ aluminium
  • Fork: RockShox Recon TK w/ lockout and 15mm Maxle axle, 120mm (4.7in) travel
  • Drivetrain: Shimano SLX M7000 w/ Race Face Æffect cranks and Shimano Deore XT M8000 rear mech (1x11)
  • Wheelset: SUNringlé Duroc 40 SL rims on Bontrager hubs
  • Tyres: Schwalbe Rocket Ron Performance TLR Addix 27.5x2.8in
  • Brakes: Shimano M365, 180/160mm rotors
  • Bar: Bontrager, 760mm
  • Stem: Bontrager Rhythm Comp, 65mm
  • Seatpost : Bontrager dropper
  • Saddle: Bontrager Evoke 1.5
  • Weight: 13.6kg / 30lb, large size without pedals

Trek Roscoe 9 frame

The Roscoe frame is shared across five bikes (three men’s, two women’s) and it’s a super-versatile chassis. Trek’s shaped, tapered ‘E2’ head tube combines with flattened, hydroformed main tubes to form a stiff but not stinging front end.

Tapering, bridge-free chainstays and seatstays help the bike skim where you’d expect a slam and give tons of tyre space, and the Boost-width (148mm) QR back end can take 29er wheels in place of the stock 650b hoops if you want.

There’s internal cable routing for a Shimano side-swing front mech in case you want to go twin-ring, two sets of bottle bosses, rear rack mounts and even a kickstand platform.

Trek Roscoe 9 kit

While the £1,000 Roscoe 8 and £800 7 use fixed posts, the 9 gets a 125mm-stroke Bontrager dropper, which also makes use of the internal routing. Add Shimano gears with a low-ratio 28t Race Face chainring, a 760mm bar and a 15mm-axled, 32mm-legged, 120mm-travel RockShox Recon fork, and you’re looking at a good package for the price.

Despite having a large choice of wheel and (particularly good) tyre options from its Bontrager in-house brand, Trek has opted to equip the Roscoe with 40mm (internal) SUNRinglé rims and fast-rolling, dual-compound Schwalbe Rocket Ron 27.5x2.8in tyres.

Trek Roscoe 9 ride impressions

Plus tyres are a great idea on a trail hardtail. As long as you get the pressures right (I’d suggest starting at 15psi on this particular set-up, going slightly higher for heavier riders on rockier trails and lower for lighter/smoother use), that extra air volume out back sucks up hits to save your rims and rump on tougher trails.

It keeps more rubber on the ground more of the time, too, which means better grip for a given tread pattern and compound. Counter-intuitively, the way bigger tyres deform over and around rocks and roots rather than bouncing off them also means they roll faster on rough ground once you’ve got them going.

That’s certainly the case here, as the Roscoe holds speed really well and never felt draggy. The big tyres also hide the primitive fork damping pretty well, and while the geometry isn’t radical (a 68-degree head angle, 440mm reach and 1,155mm wheelbase on the large), you can properly rag the Trek on natural trails or nurtured red routes.

While a shorter stem would give a more agile feel, the 65mm stock one works okay with the head angle and bar width. The tyres (and rims) are tubeless ready, so it’d be easy to add even more smoothness and puncture proofing. They’re fairly lightweight, though, and working them hard through turns creates carcass stress marks almost immediately.

Once you start pushing into black-rated territory, you begin to reach the limits of the brakes and the fork’s compression control too. And on techy climbs you need to sit on the saddle nose to offset the very slack 71-degree seat angle and stop it looping out. But none of that got in the way of me having a right good laugh on the Roscoe whenever I rode it.

Trek Roscoe 9 early verdict

Versatile rather than radical in geometry terms, but a properly fun, well-balanced all-rounder.

Share this article

trek roscoe 9 usa

  • Terms & Conditions
  • Subscribe to our magazines
  • Manage preferences

Bikepacking Alliance

2023 Trek Roscoe 9 Review

If you’re looking for an affordable mountain bike that can help you tackle any terrain the 2023 Trek Roscoe 9 could be the answer you are searching for.

The world-renowned bicycle manufacturing company, Trek, has recently released their new flagship mountain bike – The Roscoe 9. Filled with advanced features and innovative technologies, this mountain bike promises a safe and smooth ride.

2023 Trek Roscoe 9 Review

Whether you’re a beginner or a more seasoned cyclist, the 2023 Trek Roscoe 9 offers riders of all abilities the perfect combination of performance and comfort. In this review we take an in-depth look at the modern features, design and specs of the Roscoe 9 to determine whether it is worth its price tag.

The Trek Roscoe 9 is the latest addition to the trail hardtail lineup. It features a 140mm travel fork coupled with 29×2.6″ tires, to provide just enough cushion and rollover capability for when you hit the trails.

2023 Trek Roscoe 9 Review

The bike also comes equipped with an aluminum frame, wide-range 12-speed drivetrain, powerful brakes, plus modern components that offer amazing comfort and capability.

Whether you’re in search of high speed or tight turns, the 2023 Trek Roscoe 9 can take your ride to the next level.

Explore your world with the Trek Roscoe 9, a rugged and capable mountain bike capable of conquering multiple terrains.

2023 Trek Roscoe 9 Review

This reliable hard-tail bike is designed with an aggressive geometry to help you tackle steep inclines and features a supple 120mm rear suspension for extra cushion against rough terrain.

With wider tires to increase contact patch and excellent hydraulic brakes for precise control, this bike pushes your limits with ease—perfect for bikepacking or general exploration on the trails. 

2023 Trek Roscoe 9 Review

– Alpha Gold Aluminum frame maximizes stiffness while maintaining lightweight design

– Fox Rhythm 36, Float EVOL air spring front fork with 140mm travel

– TranzX dropper post allows you to adjust saddle height easily on the fly

– 29×2.6″ Bontrager XR4 Team Issue tires provide increased traction and contact patch

– Internal cable routing ensures cables are out of sight during your ride

– Shimano drivetrain offers smooth shifting no matter what terrain you’re riding on

– 29” Bontrager Line Comp 30, Tubeless Ready wheels roll fast over loose rocks and dirt

– Excellent Shimano 4-piston hydraulic brakes allow precision control while descending

2023 Trek Roscoe 9 Review

The Trek Roscoe 9 frameset is built from lightweight Alpha Gold Aluminum and includes a Fox Rhythm 36 140mm travel fork with for efficiency on smooth surfaces.

Thanks to its sloping top tube construction and ample tire clearance, you can hit steep hills without issues and enjoy agility on tight turns as well.

2023 Trek Roscoe 9 Review

This mountain bike comes equipped with a Shimano SLX 1×12 Drivetrain that offers plenty of range for conquering steep trails thanks to its 30T crankset paired up with an impressive 11-51T cassette combination.

While most Trek bikes come equipped with a Shimano crankset the Roscoe 9 comes with an impressive E*thirteen Helix crankset. 

2023 Trek Roscoe 9 Review

The Roscoe 9 is fitted with Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes that deliver powerful stopping power through their 180mm rotors regardless of descendance gradient or trail condition.

Not only have these brakes been designed to efficiently dissipate heat throughout long descents but they come fitted with four-pot calipers configured in each wheel set; helping ensure secure adhesion between brake pads whether tackling abrupt corners or absorbing surprise descent changes at unexpected moments!

The 2023 Trek Rosco 9 proves just why it continues its reign into 2023 as one of the most popular trail bikes around; equipped with world-class frame technology backed by quality components it is impossible not to have fun out on every single ride – making it ideal for those who are looking for maximum thrills out on every ride!

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

Related Posts

Trek District 4 Equipped Review

Trek District 4 Equipped Review

Vitus Sentier 29 VR Mountain Bike Review

Vitus Sentier 29 VR Mountain Bike Review

Trek Dual Sport 3 Gen 4 Review

Trek Dual Sport 3 Gen 4 Review

2023 Trek 1120 Review

2023 Trek 1120 Review

trek roscoe 9 usa

Cyclery USA Home Page

Mon - Sat 10am-6pm | Sun 11am-4pm

  • Account Account
  • Stores Stores
  • Subtotal : $ 0.00 Checkout Cart
  • Bicycling Catalog
  • 29-Inch Wheel (29ers)

Trek Roscoe 9 - 2023

Trek Roscoe 9

Roscoe 9 is our best trail hardtail, built for lap after lap of dirt-filled fun. A 140mm FOX Rhythm 36 fork, powerful 4-piston brakes, and a fast-and-grippy wheel and tire combo deliver awesome capability whether you're nailing jumps or picking through gnarly rock gardens. It's right for you if... You love the serious fun and connected feel a hardtail brings to the trail, and you want one that’s spec’d with top-notch parts that love rough and tumble runs as much as you do. The tech you get A lightweight aluminum frame, a 140mm FOX Rhythm fork with beefy 36mm stanchions, a Shimano SLX/XT 1x12 drivetrain with a wide range of gears for climbing, powerful 4-piston brakes, and a dropper post for room to get low on descents, corners, and jumps. Plus, fast-rolling 29er wheels and wide, grippy 2.6" tires. The final word Rip laps, catch air, and crush techy descents on our best hardtail. Of all the rad parts on this bike, the FOX Rhythm 36 fork is the best upgrade—it’s capable of soaking up even the roughest lines. - 29er wheels and wide 2.6" tires make for a grippy, confident, and fast-rolling ride - Bigger, stiffer 36mm fork stanchions won't flex, so you can push harder with more precise, confident steering that helps you stay on your line - The FOX fork's air spring can easily be adjusted for a specific rider weight, and it's lighter than a coil spring - The dropper post lets you lower your saddle on the fly, so it's out of the way on descents

bike frame with labeled dimensions

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

* Subject to change without notice.

Part Numbers

Trek Roscoe 9 Color: Matte Quicksand to Olive Fade/Black

No image available

"I'm stoked"

"I think it's the best looking bike in it's price range, the fit works great for me, and the drivetrain is excellent."

No image available

"Ready to rumble"

"Has the chops to squeeze every last drop of fun from local park trails, plus the talent to conquer black diamond terrain on the weekends."

No image available

"Much more capable downhill than I would have ever imagined; then, when I finished a lap and turned around to pedal back up, I was pleasantly surprised by the comfort and efficiency of the Roscoe’s climbing position."

No image available

"5 out of 5"

"One of the best we've ever tried at this price. So fun and capable it makes boring trails interesting and difficult trails manageable. "

Still have questions?

Service manual

Time to bust out the repair stand for some maintenance? Find a detailed breakdown of your bike with part numbers, torque values, and platform-specific tech instructions below.

Get faster on the trail in a week

When it comes to being a better trail rider, practice makes perfect. Get seven tips from Pinkbike’s Christina Chappetta that will have you setting PR's and riding with more confidence in no time.

How to pack for any trail ride

Everything you need (and nothing you don’t).

Hardtail Homies can't lose

Cam McCaul breaks down the ten reasons why a trail hardtail is a must-have for any mountain biker.

Product features

Ready to get rowdy.

With 140mm front travel, trail-smashing 29-inch wheels, and dialed-for-dirt frame features, Roscoe is ready to get rowdy on your favorite rides.

Progressive trail geometry

A long reach, slack head angle, steep seat angle, and short chain stays combine for a ride that's confidence inspiring, yet still nimble and fun.

The strong quiet type

Roscoe stays well protected with a double-sided chainstay guard, tough downtube guard, and internal cable guides that help your ride stay quiet, even over rough trails.

Shimano XT is the original mountain bike groupset and trusted by generations of mountain bikers around the world. Whatever the trail, wherever you ride, XT is your solution for mountain biking today. Reliable shifting. Superior braking. Intuitive maintenance. XT is the high performance workhorse you can count on.

You almost forgot your pedals

This bike doesn’t come with pedals because you'll have a better ride if you choose your own. Explore the pedal guide to find the best pedals for your riding style. Reach for flat pedals for simple versatility or go for clipless MTB pedals if you want control & efficiency.

Complete Tubeless System

Tubeless Ready rims and tires make it easy to ditch the tubes so you get better traction, fewer flats, and less weight. You're ready to roll right out of the box with the included TLR rim strips, valves, and sealant.

Internal cable routing

We route shift and brake cables through the frame to keep things clean and simple. And it looks great, too.

Threaded bottom bracket

More robust than pressfit, threaded BBs hold up in nasty conditions and make servicing easier.

Dropper post

Use the remote lever to lower your saddle so it's out of your way when you're descending and cornering.

Boost148/110

Wider dropouts (110mm front, 148mm rear) give you the stiffness of a 27.5" wheel with all the benefits of a 29" wheel, and Boost148 in the rear lets you run wider tires and a larger chainring without affecting q-factor and pedaling efficiency.

ISCG mounts

International Standard Chain Guide mounts offer easy chain guide installation and adjustment.

  • Go! E-bikes
  • Accessories
  • Find a retailer

ABOUT ELECTRA

  • Electra history
  • Flat Foot Technology
  • Brand partners
  • Electra Funbassadors
  • Work at Electra
  • Customer care
  • Bike registration
  • Manuals & user guides
  • Shipping & delivery
  • Newsletter signup
  • Global distributors
  • How to shop safely
  • Privacy policy & terms of use
  • Accessibility
  • Cookie policy
  • California Transparency Act

United States / English

  • © Electra Bicycle Company 2024

trek roscoe 9 usa

Based on frame geometry and build specs.

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

Timberjack XT 29

(descending)

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

Home

2023 Trek Roscoe 9 Bike

s1600 photo 436006

  • Write Review

Specifications

Sizes and geometry.

trekbikes.com

More Products

2022 Bird Zero 29 (Pikachellow; custom build shown)

2022 Bird Zero 29 Shimano 11-speed Bike

2022 Scott Spark Contessa 930

2022 Scott Spark Contessa 930 Bike

2022 Spawn Rokk 24/26 - 24" (Neon Sand)

2022 Spawn Rokk 24/26 - 24" Bike

2022 Esker Japhy (Dharma; custom build shown)

2022 Esker Japhy J1 Bike

2022 Bird Zero 29 (Pikachellow; custom build shown)

2022 Bird Zero 29 Shimano 12-speed Bike

2022 Trailcraft Timber 26 Carbon (Neon Green; alternate build shown)

2022 Trailcraft Timber 26 Carbon Pro Bike

2022 Spawn Rokk 20/22 - 22" (Cosmic Grape)

2022 Spawn Rokk 20/22 - 22" Bike

2022 Specialized Fuse Expert 29

2022 Specialized Fuse Expert 29 Bike

  • Mountain Bikes
  • Trek Mountain Bikes
  • Trek Roscoe
  • 2023 Trek Roscoe

45%25 off.png?VersionId=tOtk0ixkLDR1oKxxD11qc4Pu

Most Popular

IMAGES

  1. Trek Roscoe 2023 review

    trek roscoe 9 usa

  2. Trek Roscoe 9 Hardtail MTB Review

    trek roscoe 9 usa

  3. Trek Roscoe 9 2023 Mountain Bike

    trek roscoe 9 usa

  4. Trek Roscoe 9 2022

    trek roscoe 9 usa

  5. Trailhardtail: Trek Roscoe 9 im Test

    trek roscoe 9 usa

  6. Trek Roscoe 9 Hardtail MTB Review

    trek roscoe 9 usa

VIDEO

  1. Wrong turn leads to a nice easy trail on the Trek Roscoe 9 Mountain Bike #mtb #gopro12 #trekroscoe

  2. I Took my Trek Roscoe 9 to Ride Trek Trails!

  3. The CHEAPEST Trek Roscoe 9 I’ve Ever Seen

  4. TREK ROSCOE 8

  5. 2022 Trek Roscoe 6 Essential Upgrade

  6. Why I spent $1800 on this Trek Roscoe 7

COMMENTS

  1. Roscoe 9

    Roscoe 9. $2,499.99 $2,799.99. Model 5260394. Retailer prices may vary. Roscoe 9 is our best all-mountain alloy hardtail, built for lap after lap of grin-inducing fun. A 140mm FOX Rhythm 36 fork, powerful 4-piston brakes, and a fast-and-grippy wheel and tire combo deliver awesome capability whether you're nailing jumps or picking through gnarly ...

  2. Roscoe

    Roscoe. See the bikes. Hardtails have more fun. Dive into rowdy terrain on the all-new Roscoe. It's built for a good time from the ground up, and fearlessly flies down the same gnarly trails you'd ride on a fully. But because it's shock-free, you don't have as much to maintain and the trail feel is unbeatable. Less fuss, more fun—that ...

  3. Trek Roscoe 9 Hardtail MTB Review

    The Trek Roscoe 9 is a killer offering for riders looking for an all-round hardtail ripper, with balanced geometry that's equally happy on the way up and down the hill. The sturdy spec choice allows the Roscoe to charge surprisingly hard through rough terrain without issue and is dialed for its reasonable price. Price: - $2,699/£2,200

  4. Trek Roscoe 9

    Details. Roscoe 9 is our best trail hardtail, built for lap after lap of dirt-filled fun. A 140mm FOX Rhythm 36 fork, powerful 4-piston brakes, and a fast-and-grippy wheel and tire combo deliver awesome capability whether you're nailing jumps or picking through gnarly rock gardens.

  5. Trek Roscoe 9 review

    Tested by: Darren Hall. Trek Roscoe 9. The Trek Roscoe 9 features in our 'Going to unextremes' bike test. The Roscoe comes in three flavours, the 7, 8, and top spec 9 on test here. All three ...

  6. 2023 Trek Roscoe 9

    Trek Roscoe 9 review. Feb 2022 · Daz Hall. As a gnarly trail shredding bike, it won't surprise anyone that the Trek Roscoe is biased in favour of the rowdier type of riding. Read Review. Trek Roscoe 7 review. Nov 2021 · Luke Marshall. The Roscoe's a well-rounded package that delivers an engaging ride, but with a few compromises.

  7. Roscoe Frameset

    5 Reviews / Write a Review. $749.99. Model 5285371. Retailer prices may vary. Roscoe frameset gives you a solid starting point for an awesome hardtail trail build. The light and sturdy alloy frame is made for a 140-150mm fork, 29er wheels and wide tires. Spec it for however you'll ride it, whether you're planning on getting down or catching air.

  8. 2022 Trek Roscoe 9

    Aug 2022 · Alan Muldoon. Launched back in 2019, the Trek Roscoe 6 is definitely showing signs of ageing. Yes, it's had a fresh lick of paint and some specification updates since then, the biggest change being the addition of a dropper seat post. Other than that though, it's essentially the same bike that now costs £1k rather than £675.

  9. Trek Roscoe 9 first ride review

    Really well-sorted and enjoyable all-rounder

  10. 2022 Trek Roscoe 9 Bike

    Free shipping on orders over $50 (continental U.S. only). International shipping available. Some exclusions apply. Browse available Bikes. Reviews, ratings, specifications, weight, price and more for the 2022 Trek Roscoe 9 Bike.

  11. 2023 Trek Roscoe 9 Review

    The Trek Roscoe 9 is the latest addition to the trail hardtail lineup. It features a 140mm travel fork coupled with 29×2.6″ tires, to provide just enough cushion and rollover capability for when you hit the trails. The bike also comes equipped with an aluminum frame, wide-range 12-speed drivetrain, powerful brakes, plus modern components ...

  12. Compare: 2022 Trek Roscoe 8 vs Roscoe 9

    Front Travel. 140mm. 140mm. Brand Site. trekbikes.com. trekbikes.com. Summary. The Trek Roscoe 8 and Trek Roscoe 9 are both aluminum frame hardtail trail bikes. The Roscoe 8 has 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum wheels and better components, while the Roscoe 9 has 29″ / 29″ aluminum wheels and a better fork.

  13. Roscoe

    Roscoe. With 140mm of squish up front, Roscoe delivers hardtail simplicity and fully capability for a heavy-hitting trail bike that amps up every ride. 5 Results. Items. 24.

  14. Trek Roscoe 9

    Roscoe 9 is our best trail hardtail, built for lap after lap of dirt-filled fun. A 140mm FOX Rhythm 36 fork, powerful 4-piston brakes, and a fast-and-grippy wheel and tire combo deliver awesome capability whether you're nailing jumps or picking through gnarly rock gardens. It's right for you if...

  15. Roscoe 9

    With 140mm front travel, trail-smashing 29-inch wheels, and dialed-for-dirt frame features, Roscoe is ready to get rowdy on your favorite rides. Progressive trail geometry A long reach, slack head angle, steep seat angle, and short chain stays combine for a ride that's confidence inspiring, yet still nimble and fun.

  16. Compare: 2023 Trek Roscoe 9 vs Salsa Timberjack XT 29

    The Trek Roscoe 9 and Salsa Timberjack XT 29 are both aluminum frame hardtail trail bikes with upper mid-range components. The Roscoe 9 has 29″ / 29″ aluminum wheels, a better fork, and a bigger fork; while the Timberjack XT 29 has 29″ aluminum wheels.

  17. 2023 Trek Roscoe 9 Bike

    2023 Trek Roscoe 9 Bike. Share to Facebook. Facebook Share to Twitter. Twitter. Related: Trek. Where To Buy. ... Jenson USA. Yeti SB150 Turq T2 X01 Eagle AXS Bike. Image. Yeti SB150 Turq T2 X01 Eagle AXS Bike $5,665.00 (45% off) Competitive Cyclist. Alchemy Arktos 150 GX Bike.

  18. Roscoe 9

    Discover your next great ride with Roscoe 9 - 2023, X-Large. See the bike and visit your local Trek retailer. Shop now!

  19. Trek Roscoe 9 used in XL

    This 2023 Trek Roscoe 9 - Shimano Deore XT has a frame size XL. The bike suitable for a rider height of 6 ' 2 " - 6 ' 5 ". ... San Francisco, United States View profile Contact seller We ship anywhere. Delivery to your doorstep. Safe payments. Stay protected with buycycle. Easy returns ...

  20. Trek Roscoe 9 used in M

    Trek, Roscoe 9 2023. $ 1,960 original price *Counter offers are displayed in the currency of the seller's locale. The estimate provided below is susceptible to fluctuations in the real-time exchange rate. The ultimate price you observe during the payment process will be determined by the live currency exchange rate.

  21. Roscoe 8

    The tech you get. A lightweight aluminum frame, a 140mm RockShox 35 Gold fork with a lockout, a SRAM NX Eagle 1x12 drivetrain with a wide range of gears for climbing, powerful 4-piston brakes, and a dropper post for room to move around on the bike on descents, corners, and jumps. Plus, fast-rolling 29er wheels with a 108-tooth Rapid Drive hub ...

  22. Roscoe 6

    Shifter: Shimano Deore M4100, 10 speed: Rear derailleur: Shimano Deore M5120, long cage *Crank: Size: XS, S FSA Alpha Drive, 28T steel ring, 55mm chainline, 170mm ...