trek ex 8 weight

Trek Fuel EX 8 review – still one of the best trail MTBs?

Trek’s alloy fuel ex trail mountain bike lacks the latest features but is the overall package still a winner.

BikePerfect Verdict

Heavy frame that misses the latest features but still a great package for fast and precise all round mountain biking

Tight, precise frame

Sorted all round handling

Very efficient suspension feel

Durable Shimano kit

Excellent sizing options

Heavy frame

No internal storage

Press fit bottom bracket

Top Fuel is more playful

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Trek’s Fuel EX has been one of the best mountain bikes in the world for years, but the alloy-framed 8 is lacking some of the features the latest alloy and carbon Treks. High-durability component spec matches the vibe of a really well-balanced bike. One that plans ahead, hands its homework in early (having double checked it) and rarely puts a wheel wrong or goads you into being silly yourself. So how has Trek done that and is there a better option in the range if you want something short on travel but big on fun?

Design and aesthetics

Trek has been using a rocker link-driven, vertical shock suspension design on its bikes for so long that “Looks like a Trek Session” is a cliche on most MTB forums. No surprise then that the Fuel EX continues the clean looks which leave plenty of room for a big bottle on the down tube and strap-on storage. You don’t get the internal storage of the newer Top Fuel alloy frame though and this older frame still uses a press-fit bottom bracket rather than reverting to a more reliable threaded  format. There are ISCG chain keeper tabs on the BB though, a wider-angle Knock Block steering limiter to stop bars hitting the frame in a crash and rear axle concentric ABP rear suspension pivot. Cunning zip tie tabbed ‘Control Freak’ internal cable routing and rubber frame armor including molded chainstay sleeves keep things quiet. 

You also get the 0.5-degree geometry change ‘Mino Link’ flip chip at the seat stay/rocker pivot. That changes head angle from 65.5- to 65-degrees and effective seat angle from 75.5- to 75-degrees on the Large I tested. Reach also shifts from 475 to 470mm and BB height drops from 346 to 340mm. The big win with choosing a Trek though is the sheer range of sizes from XXS to XXL including a sweet spot ML in the centre. Smaller bikes also run 27.5in wheels for proportional balance, too, although the chainstays are the same length on all frame sizes. The Fuel EX 8 is also available in three different two-tone color options.

Specification

Trek acknowledges that the ‘priority is on the parts’ with the EX 8 and the highlight is an almost complete Shimano XT drivetrain (the chain is SLX). The Fox Float shock is a custom unit, too, using a Penske race car derived RE:aktiv damper setup for a pert-pedaling feel on top of the 130mm travel. The 140mm Fox 34 fork is the stock Rhythm spec though and the Shimano brakes are basic four-piston MT400s. Bontrager’s functional Line component range completes the bike in well-judged, size-specific cockpit options although dropper post strokes are short on the larger sizes. Big volume versions of Bontrager’s XR5 and XR4 tires on Bontrager Line Comp 30mm internal rims put plenty of air between bike and trail for protection, too.

Performance

While the EX8 isn’t light at just under 15kg (a full kilo heavier than Trek claims) it’s in the ballpark for a mid-travel, alloy-framed bike at this price. What really stands out is how well it hides that weight when it comes to pedaling. The big tires don’t drag nearly as much as they look like they might, while the RE:aktiv shock and overall kinematic give it a really clean, crisp and stable platform to put down power from. That means even with three potential low-compression settings to play with, we rarely felt compelled to flick it out of full open unless we were hoofing uphill out of the saddle. Add the clean shifting, top-quality Shimano XT drivetrain and the Fuel EX is a great choice for high-mileage rides and riders. The fast-engaging ‘Rapid Drive’ freehub and relatively high ground clearance are a bonus for anyone who likes to kick hard out of corners or attack rough technical climbs, too. The efficient suspension feel still gives enough sensitivity to track the ground under power and you can drop pressures in the big tires if you’re into a proper ‘crawler/swamper’ feel. 

The 140mm fork/130mm rear travel feels well balanced on the trail and the Grip damper Fox Rhythm repeatedly proved why its our favorite cost-effective fork. Trek’s suspension calculator is accurate enough to get most people sorted on set-up for most situations. The angles and proportions of the model we tested were confident at speed on jumps but still turned in promptly on woodland twisters. Even the basic Shimano brakes feel better than normal through the neutral suspension responses created by the ABP pivot and the 200mm rotor up front boosts power, too.

While you could speed up reactions with a shorter stem, the stock setup probably suits its overall character better. That’s because while it will pop and play off trailside opportunities if you’re in the mood, it does tend to sit on top of an already relatively high ride height rather than sucking down onto the trail and railing. Interestingly that’s a big - and counter intuitive - difference to the Top Fuel 8. With slightly steeper angles, less travel, significantly different suspension kinematic and top-spec RockShox rear shock, Trek’s pocket rocket has an addictively playful charisma that’s very much at odds with it’s ‘XC’ categorization. 

In fact, despite it being heavier we’d probably opt for the Fuel EX for long marathon-style or efficiency-based events, especially as it’s significantly cheaper than its little brother, leaving you more cash for race entries and energy products. Just make sure you keep an eye on the press-fit bottom bracket and get it replaced as soon as it shows any signs of wobble/creak as that can eventually creates frame issues.

Trek’s Fuel range might be a bit backwards when it comes to assigning categories based on travel but the main thing is that the Fuel EX is still a really efficient, enjoyable and fitness/skill flattering all rounder. While it misses out on the internal storage, threaded BB and super-plush playfulness of the Top Fuel, Shimano XT will always bring a lot of hard riding boys (and girls) to the yard. Those are exactly the riders who’ll appreciate just how well this extremely well balanced bike covers ground and keeps a fresh and sharp feel long into the day, and down tough technical sections, too. 

Tech Specs: Trek Fuel EX 8 XT

• Price: $3,929.99 / £3,200
• Discipline: Trail
• Head angle: 66/66.5-degrees
• Frame material: Trek Alpha Platinum Aluminum
• Sizes: XS, S, M, M/L, L (tested) XL, XXL
• Weight: 14.9kg
• Wheel size: 29 x 2.3in
• Suspension (front/rear): Fox Rhythm 34, Float EVOL 140mm travel, 44mm offset/Fox Performance Float EVOL, 3-position RE:aktiv 130mm travel
• Components: Shimano XT 10-51T, 12-speed gearing, shifter, chainset and cassette. Shimano SLX chain. Shimano MT400 brakes with 200/180mm rotors. Bontrager XR4 Team Issue 29 x 2.6in front and Bontrager XR5 Team Issue 29 x 2.5in rear tires on Bontrager Line Comp 30 wheels. Bontrager Line 780 x 35mm bar and 50 x 35 mm stem, Bontrager Line Dropper 150mm dropper post, Bontrager Arvada saddle

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

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

Height: 180cm

Weight: 69kg

• Guy Kesteven Technical-Editor-at-Large

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• Rider Notes

2021 Trek Fuel EX 8 XT

A 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum frame full suspension trail bike with high-end components.

Manufacturer Price

For This Bike

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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.

Fuel EX 8 XT

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Add custom gearing

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

Dec 2022 · Mike Levy

The downtube storage compartment is on the new bike, and while it seems like Trek has put all the things onto the latest Fuel EX, there's one that they didn't: Knock Block.

Wide range of effective geometry adjustments

Just as much fun on smooth trails as it is on scary trails

Great climber, efficient pedaling

One-piece handlebar might be too stiff for some riders

Paint chips easily

Read Review

New geometry, more travel, and even better suspension improves Trek's mid-weight trail bike.

May 2022 · Guy Kesteven

Trek’s alloy Fuel EX trail mountain bike lacks the latest features but is the overall package still a winner?

Tight, precise frame

Sorted all round handling

Very efficient suspension feel

Durable Shimano kit

Excellent sizing options

Heavy frame

No internal storage

Press fit bottom bracket

Top Fuel is more playful

Oct 2020 · Benjamin Topf

The Trek Fuel EX 9.9 is an absolute classic in the trail bike segment. Could it also be the perfect bike for the next bikepacking adventure with its modern geometry and spare parts compartment in the down tube? We put the Fuel EX to the test.

Maximum fun on the descents

Intuitive and good-natured handling

Storage compartment in the down tube for tools or snacks

Too sluggish on easy terrain

Too much bike for long straights

Aug 2020 · Christoph Bayer

The Trek Fuel EX is the most expensive bike in this group test, yet is still awarded our Best Buy – how is that possible? Read our review to find out what makes this bike so good.

Performs on every kind of trail

Fantastic spec

A great balance of composure and agility

Seat tube angle could be steeper

Jun 2020 · Spencer Johnson

As warmer temperatures hit the Pacific Northwest and the dirt starts to dry, I’m always eager to get out on some long rides with some big climbs. Naturally, when this Trek Fuel EX 9.9 showed up at the Freehub office, I knew it was time to put the nimble beast through its paces. I challenged myself to a 60-mile sufferfest on some of Bellingham, Washington’s toughest climbs and descents. It definitely didn’t let me down. Climbing on this bike was a joy. Trek equipped the 9.9 model with its proprietary RE:aktiv shock with a three-position damper, which I left wide open for the entire ride. The rear suspension had an overwhelmingly supportive feel while pedaling out of the saddle, yet as soon as I hit a bump it dived deeper into the travel, keeping the rear wheel firmly planted and providing excellent traction. The geometry is modern and balanced, with a long reach and a sensible 76-degree seat angle. On the descents, the bike inspired confidence, thanks to its long wheelbase and bottomless-feeling suspension. My confidence was further enhanced by the reliable stopping power of the Shimano XT brakes. As a 200-pound rider, I couldn’t have appreciated the ultra-powerful XT brakes and the 203-millimeter front rotor more—especially while bombing down some of Bellingham’s scariest double-black trails.

Apr 2020 · McCoy

Can it get any better than this?

Nov 2019 · Jeremy Benson

The Fuel EX 8 is an impressively capable, versatile, and well-rounded trail bike that is ready for anything you are. Trek redesigned the Fuel EX models for...

Relatively affordable

Good component spec for the price

Great small bump compliance

Versatile/well-rounded

Frame sizing feels a little small

Can be overwhelmed in super aggressive terrain

Last updated April 16 Not listed for 1,100 days

2023 Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 5 Bike

• Write Review

Specifications

Sizes and geometry.

trekbikes.com

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Trek Fuel EX 8

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Size / 14" High, 14" Low, 15.5" High, 15.5" Low, 17.5" High, 17.5" Low, 18.5" High, 18.5" Low, 19.5" High, 19.5" Low, 21.5" High, 21.5" Low, 23" High, 23" Low

Weight / 13.86

At a glance

Where to buy.

Specifications

• Frame Alpha Platinum Aluminium, tapered head tube, Knock Block, Control Freak internal routing, downtube guard, ISCG 05, magnesium rocker link, Mino Link, ABP, Boost148, 130 mm travel
• Fork Fox Rhythm Float 34, Fox Rhythm 34, Float EVOL air spring, GRIP damper, tapered steerer, 44 mm offset, Boost110, 15 mm Kabolt axle, 140 mm travel
• Shock Size: XS, S, Fox Performance Float EVOL, 3-position RE:aktiv damper, tuned by Trek Suspension Lab, 210 mm x 52.5 mm; Size: S, M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Fox Performance Float EVOL, 3-position RE:aktiv damper, tuned by Trek Suspension Lab, 210 mm x 55 mm
• Hubs Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, alloy axle, 6-bolt, Shimano MicroSpline freehub, Boost148, 12 mm thru axle
• Wheels Bontrager Line Comp 30, Tubeless Ready, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15 mm thru axle
• Wheel Size 29" 27.5"
• Spokes DT Swiss Champion, J-Bend, Black
• Tires Size: XS, S, M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager XR4 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29.x2.40"; Size: XS, S, Bontrager XR4 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 27.5x2.60"; Size: S, M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager XR4 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29x2.60"
• Chain Shimano SLX, Shimano SLX M7100, 12-speed
• Bottom Bracket Shimano MT500, 92 mm, PressFit
• Rear Derailleur Shimano XT, Shimano XT M8100, long cage, 51T max cog
• Shifters Shimano XT, Shimano XT M8100, 12-speed
• Brakeset Shimano , Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc, MT4100 lever, MT420 calliper
• Handlebar Size: XS, S, Bontrager Line, alloy, 35 mm, 27.5 mm rise, 750 mm width; Size: M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager Line, alloy, 35 mm, 27.5 mm rise, 780 mm width
• Saddle Bontrager Arvada, hollow chromoly rails, 138 mm width
• Seatpost Size: XS, S, Bontrager Line Dropper, 100 mm travel, internal routing, 31.6 mm, 345 mm length; Size: M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager Line Dropper, 150mm travel, internal routing, 31.6 mm, 440mm length
• Stem Size: XS, S, Bontrager Line, 35 mm, Knock Block, 0-degree, 40 mm length; Size: M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager Line, 35 mm, Knock Block, 0-degree, 50 mm length
• Grips Bontrager XR Trail Elite, nylon lock-on

Q: How much is a 2021 Trek Fuel EX 8?

A 2021 Trek Fuel EX 8 is typically priced around £3,200 GBP when new. Be sure to shop around for the best price, and also look to the used market for a great deal.

Q: Where to buy a 2021 Trek Fuel EX 8?

The 2021 Trek Fuel EX 8 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: How much does a 2021 Trek Fuel EX 8 weigh?

A 2021 Trek Fuel EX 8 weights 13.86.

Q: What size wheels does the 2021 Trek Fuel EX 8 have?

The 2021 Trek Fuel EX 8 has 29" and 27.5" wheels.

Q: What size 2021 Trek Fuel EX 8 should I get?

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Trek Fuel EX 8 Review

• coherent overall package
• higher quality gears than the other bikes in this price range
• 25 years warranty
• with 13,9 kg lighter than comparable bikes

OVERALL BIKE CHECK

The most importanten ratings of the Fuel EX 8 ⬤ in comparison to the competitor bikes of following categorie: (All Mountain up to 4500 €) ⬤ .

VALUE for MONEY CHECK

If you are keen on value for money, this is your chart. It shows you at a glance how many bike you get for 3499 €.

Expirience with the Trek Fuel EX 8

best alternatives

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

• Frame Fuel EX Alu
• Frame Material Aluminium
• Fork Fox Rhythm 34, Float EVOL air spring, GRIP damper, tapered steerer, 44mm offset, Boost110, 15mm Kabolt axle, 140mm travel
• Spring Unit air
• Remote-Lockout yes
• Damper Size: XS, S, Fox Performance Float EVOL, 3-position RE:aktiv damper, tuned by Trek Suspension Lab, 210mm x 52.5mm; Size: S, M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Fox Performance Float EVOL, 3-position RE:aktiv damper, tuned by Trek Suspension Lab, 210mm x 55mm
• Gearrange 510%
• Drivetrain 1x12
• Gear Lever Shimano XT M8100, 12 speed
• Rear Derailleur Shimano XT M8100, long cage
• Crank Size: XS, S, M, ML, L, Shimano SLX M7100, 30T alloy ring, 52mm chainline, 170mm length; Size: XL, XXL, Shimano SLX M7100, 30T alloy ring, 52mm chainline, 175mm length
• Cassette Shimano XT M8100, 10-51, 12 speed
• Chain Shimano SLX M7100, 12 speed
• Brake Set Size: XS, S, M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Shimano hydraulic disc, MT4100 lever, MT420 4-piston caliper; Size: XS, S, M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc, MT4100 lever, MT420 caliper
• Brake Rotors 180/180
• Wheel Set Bontrager Line Comp 30, Tubeless Ready, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15mm thru axle
• Front Hub Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, alloy axle, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15 mm thru axle
• Rear Hub Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, alloy axle, 6-bolt, Shimano MicroSpline freehub, Boost148, 12 mm thru axle
• Tires Front Size: XS, S, Bontrager XR5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength casing, aramid bead, 60 tpi, 27.5x2.50''; Size: S, M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager XR5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29x2.50''
• Tires Rear Size: XS, S, Bontrager XR5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength casing, aramid bead, 60 tpi, 27.5x2.50''; Size: S, M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager XR5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29x2.50''
• Saddle Bontrager Arvada, hollow chromoly rails, 138mm width
• Seat Post Size: XS, S, Bontrager Line Dropper, 100mm travel, internal routing, 31.6mm, 345mm length; Size: M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager Line Dropper, 150mm travel, internal routing, 31.6mm, 440mm length
• Stem Size: XS, S, Bontrager Elite, 35mm, 0 degree, 35mm length; Size: M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager Elite, 35mm, 0 degree, 45mm length
• Handle Bar Size: XS, S, Bontrager Line, alloy, 35mm, 27.5mm rise, 750mm width; Size: M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager Line, alloy, 35mm, 27.5mm rise, 780mm width
• Handle Bar Width 780
• Head Set Knock Block Integrated, 58-degree radius, cartridge bearing, 1-1/8'' top, 1.5'' bottom

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Trek Fuel EX 8 29 (2018) review

Accurate and versatile all-rounder with speed to spare

Steve Behr / Immediate Media

Guy Kesteven

Massively-stiff, progressively-shaped frame; shock and wheels breed free rough-terrain speed; well-matched, very effective componentry for the money

2018 Fox Rhythm fork needs tuning to do the rest of the ride justice; press-fit bottom brackets can wear fast

Small but significant component and suspension changes make the EX 8 a potentially excellent all-rounder if you like your ride fast and focused. The Fox Rhythm fork needs accurate tweaking to match the rest of the ride though.

• How to slay steep trail sections
• How to hit blind jumps like a pro

The Fuel EX is unchanged for 2018, apart from the switch to a metric shock in Trek’s ‘Full Floater’ position between the rocker link and extended chainstay tips.

You’re getting the same super-stiff, ‘Knock Block’-equipped mainframe with neat semi-internal control routing, down tube bottle mount and press-fit bottom bracket (which isn’t likely to last as long as a threaded one). A chip on the seatstay can be flipped to change the head angle by 0.5 degrees and bottom bracket height by 10mm.

Trek’s ‘ABP’ pivot runs through the rear wheel axle to reduce the effects of braking on the 130mm of travel, which is controlled by a unique ‘RE:aktiv’-valved Fox shock.

Trek Fuel EX 8 29 kit

While the EX 8 is creeping up in price by £99 for 2018, you get a lot for that extra cash. The most obvious hop-up on paper is SRAM’s GX Eagle, with its 12 sprockets and X-Sync 2 ring.

Just as obvious on the trail, though, is the change to top-spec Team Issue Bontrager XR4 tyres (one of our favourites). The 30mm rims plump them up to a chunky 60mm width, but there’s space for 3.0in rubber in the frame if you buy a second set of wheels (or go for the 650b rather than 29er bike in the first place).

• Bontrager XR4 Expert TLR 29x2.4 tire review
• Bontrager XR4 27.5x2.35in MTB tyre review

Bonty also supplies the updated Drop Line dropper , and the 35mm-diameter bar and stem, which help translate the Fuel EX’s HD-clarity stiffness advantage right through to the grips.

While the Guide R brakes are the entry-level members of SRAM’s four-cylinder family, they’re better modulated and more powerful than the stoppers found on the Whyte T-130 S, Scott Spark 945 and Mondraker Factor XR + that were also on test.

Fox’s Rhythm 34 fork gets an extended EVOL negative spring for 2018, which makes it smoother over small bumps. My sample dived excessively and wouldn’t return to full extension though — effectively steepening the bike’s head angle — even when I ran 20psi more pressure than recommended, so I added two volume spacers.

The larger negative chamber of the 2018 Float DPS shock delivers a similar advantage in sensitivity, but the seamless support of the ‘RE:aktiv’ damper tune stops it being too linear or feeling flaccid when pedalling.

Trek Fuel EX 8 29 ride impression

The combination of accurately-damped rear suspension and a super-precise and muscular front end and cockpit reveals itself as the Trek’s major handling trait straight away.

Relatively low weight means the Trek feels encouragingly positive when you’re pushing watts through it too

Once I’d added spacers to the fork, the long-reach stability and reasonably slack head angle meant I could pick ridiculous lines across cambers and root spreads, and be confident that the Fuel wouldn’t just hold them but cut inside them.

The modulation of the brakes increases confidence in sketchy situations and the well-damped, big-volume tyres and clean-tracking, accurately-controlled rear end take the edge off hits and stutter bumps too.

This all lets the Fuel EX carry serious straight-line speed through rowdy technical sections, in a way that reminded me of its 150mm-travel Remedy bigger brother.

Relatively low weight means the Trek feels encouragingly positive when you’re pushing watts through it too. The Eagle transmission is excellent, and combined with its efficient pedalling and easy roll, this means it’s an impressive technical climber, with epic-distance potential.

Even after extensive tuning, the fork never felt quite as accurate or composed as the Revelation on the similarly priced Whyte T-130 S.

I’d also fit a shorter stem to make it easier to flick the hard-charging chassis into corners and take front-end traction to the limit. But if you’re not into super-twitchy front ends and can get the fork sorted, the Fuel EX is an absolute hauler, whether you’re climbing super-tech pitches or charging through rock gardens.

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2023 Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 Review

Are you looking for a durable, light-weight mountain bike to conquer the trails? The 2023 Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 might be just what you need!

Mountain biking is a popular hobby that allows you to explore nature and have an amazing time doing it. With so many bikes on the market, it can be hard to find one that suits your exact needs.

The 2023 Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 is designed to offer ultimate performance in both climbing and descending.

This review will look at the features of this model and discuss whether they fit into your riding requirements.

We’ll examine various aspects such as its geometry, components, suspension system, and overall design. Read on to learn why this bike may be worth the investment for hardcore mountain bikers!

The Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 is a trail mountain bike that packs plenty of features to offer an incredible experience on the trails.

The lightweight aluminum frame, full-suspension design, and sleek aesthetics make this bike a fantastic option for mountain biking enthusiasts. Read on for our full review of the Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 2023.

The 2023 Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 is an incredibly durable and powerful mountain bike.

This light-weight aluminum full suspension bike features 140mm of travel, a Shimano 1×12 drivetrain, Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes, a Fox Rhythm 36 fork, and wide Bontrager Line Comp 30 wheels wrapped in Bontrager XR5 Team Issue tires for unbeatable control and traction.

Combining this with updated geometry for better agility and stability at speed, the Fuel EX 8 lets riders confidently tackle any trail.

– Constructed from lightweight Alpha Platinum Aluminum frame.

– Shimano 1×12 drivetrain provides smooth shifting performance.

– Shimano 4 piston hydraulic disc brakes offer powerful stopping power.

– Fox Rhythm 36, Float EVOL air spring 150mm travel fork provides great stability when tackling technical terrain

– Wide Bontrager Line Comp 30 wheels wrapped in Bontrager XR5 Team Issue tires provide ample grip on all surfaces.

– Updated geometry offers improved agility and stability at speed across varied terrain types.

The Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 has an extremely lightweight aluminum frame.

Whether you’re navigating technical terrain or taking off down smooth singletrack, its light frame allows you to stay nimble as you maneuver through trails.

Plus, with its attractive matte pennyflake finish, it looks great too!

The bike features a full suspension setup featuring a combined 140mm of travel coming from a Fox Rhythm 36 fork up front and a Fox Performance Float X 185mm x 55mm shock out back, giving you a plush ride that can handle rough terrain and drops confidently.

This suspension setup makes it ideal for those who like to tackle more technical routes or enjoy the descent just as much as the climb.

On the components side, Trek has equipped their Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 with Shimano Deore XT 12 speed drivetrain and 4 piston brakes providing immense power and control over your ride no matter how treacherous it might be. The wide range 10-51t cassette is paired to a 30t chainring, all spun by a Shimano Deore crankset.

It comes with tubeless ready Bontrager Line Comp 30 wheels wrapped in XR5 Team Issue 29″x2.50″ tires for maximum grip all-round — making sure you can take on even the most extreme conditions with ease.

Comfort & Convenience

Additionally, this model is fitted with Bontrager’s comfortable Arvada saddle, and mounted to a TranzX dropper post so you won’t have any issues staying comfortable during long rides.

To top off all these features it also comes in weighing only 34.5lbs, not too shabby for an all aluminum full suspension mountain bike!

To conclude our review of the Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 2023 – it’s definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a reliable trail bike that keeps up with today’s ever changing technology.

Its lightweight frame paired with an efficient full-suspension system will deliver precise handling no matter what type of terrain you choose to explore; coupled with its quality components run by reliable Shimano drivetrains will allow for an unforgettable experience out on the trails.

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

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Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 review

• by Cyclesgo

The Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 is part of the sixth generation of the US brand’s flagship trail-bike family, launched in 2022. It went live hot on the heels of the aesthetically similar, but motor-assisted Fuel EXe bike. The Fuel EX family offers 140mm of rear-wheel travel, paired with 150mm forks, and is targeted at more aggressive trail bike riders. The bulk of the bikes are offered with 29in wheels, the XS frames have 27.5in wheels, while those looking at size-small bikes get the pick of both sizes. One of the most adjustable bikes on the market, the Fuel EX offers two geometry adjustments, as well as suspension adaptability and mullet compatibility. With an expansive range, covering alloy and carbon models, there are bikes for many pockets. This EX Gen 6 sits at the top end of the alloy range, and while the spec list isn’t dripping in top-end kit, the selection of parts suggests solid performance should be expected.

Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 frame and suspension

The frame uses Trek’s Alpha Platinum aluminium, which is butted and hydroformed into the tube shapes the brand desires. The down tube features a storage port, into which tools, snacks or pumps can be stashed, situated under the bottle cage. Under the tube is a two-piece rubberised bolt-on protection strip to keep the frame safe. It extends the length of the down tube, which is great to see. Threaded bottom bracket shells will appeal to home mechanics, while there are ISCG05 mounts around the shell too. Thick rubberised protection keeps the rear triangle running quietly and the paint chip-free. A wide 34.9mm seat tube means large-diameter droppers are fitted – a boon when it comes to durability.

Chain-slap protection helps keep the bike quiet. Trek uses its ABP (Active Braking Pivot) suspension linkage on the Fuel EX. This places the rear pivot concentric to the rear axle (rather than on the chainstay or seatstay, as on most suspension systems). This, Trek says, separates braking forces from the suspension’s action. The idea is that suspension remains active while braking. Normally, the torque applied to the seatstay by the brake during braking interferes with the suspension, hampering the wheel’s ability to track the ground while slowing down.

Trek’s ABP suspension merges 4-bar and faux-bar with a rear pivot concentric to the rear axle. Trek says the seatstay, which floats between the rear pivot and the rocker link, separates the two competing forces. The suspension linkage features a two-position lower shock mount on the frame (the ‘Progression Chip’), enabling you to run a more progressive leverage curve, offering improved bottom-out protection, or the ability to run a coil shock, which is more linear than a standard air shock. This feature should appeal to more aggressive riders.

Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 geometry

The Fuel EX 8 features Trek’s MinoLink tech. Trek has given the Fuel EX plenty of adjustability in terms of the bike’s geometry. The MinoLink has been seen on numerous Trek bikes. This flip chip in the suspension rocker gives Low and High settings, altering head and seat angles by 0.5 degrees. It also alters the BB height by 8mm. There are also three headset options – Slack, Neutral and Steep. In Slack (and MinoLink in Low), this offers adjustment from 63.5 degrees to 64.5 degrees (Neutral) up to 65.5 degrees in Steep. There’s minimal impact on other areas of the bike’s geometry. Bikes ship with the Neutral headset (and the bike is tested here in Neutral), with a rotatable headset cup available aftermarket, offering the Slack and Steep options.

One of many adjustments available – the progressivity of the rear suspension can be changed here. Finally, in terms of adjustability, if you stick the bike in the Steep setting with a 160mm fork, the Fuel EX can be run as a mullet bike, with a 27.5in wheel in the back. Overall, the geometry is very modern. Reach figures are long, the head angles are slack and the seat tube angles are steep, at around 78 degrees. Chainstay lengths alter with size, too, ranging from 435mm to 450mm across the (impressive) eight sizes on offer. These go from XS to S (27.5 or 29in), Medium and Medium Large, Large, XL and XXL.

Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 specifications

Fox’s Rhythm 36 might come from the base of the range, but it’s a smooth, comfortable fork. At £4,350, it’s fair to say the EX 8 doesn’t offer the best value around. However, many of the spec choices are solid, and the alloy chassis is great. Suspension comes from Fox, in the shape of a Rhythm-level 36 fork with 150mm travel. This comes with the basic GRIP damper, which has a lockout dial on the top of the fork and low-speed rebound adjustment at the bottom. At the rear, there’s a Float X shock, in its Performance flavour. This has a piggy-back design, giving it a higher oil volume, which in turn improves performance consistency on long descents.

The Float X shock from Fox is a great addition to the spec. The Performance level largely means there’s less adjustment than its pricier siblings, but you still get a lockout lever. The drivetrain is a mix of Shimano XT, SLX and Deore, as well as an e*thirteen 9-50t cassette. The brakes on my test bike are the new mineral-oil based DB8 brakes from SRAM, with 200/180mm rotors. Some bikes may come with M6100-level Shimano brakes, though. Bontrager (Trek’s in-house parts brand), provides the bulk of the finishing kit, from the cockpit to the saddle, as well as its Line 30 Comp wheels, and mid-aggressiveness XR5 Team Issue 29×2.5in tyres.

Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 ride impressions

The Fuel EX excelled on rocky, rooty tech. This bike was tested as part of our 2023 Bike of the Year test. It was compared to seven of the best trail bikes, listed later. I took all the bikes to the same locations and trails for some dedicated back-to-back testing on a wide variety of terrain. From hand-dug tracks in the woods to trail-centre laps and BikePark Wales’ rocky runs, I ensured the trail bikes were exposed to every type of trail such a bike is likely to be ridden on. Riding the bikes back to back, usually with four in each testing session, ensured I was able to pick out the finer performance points of each one.

Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 climbing performance

The Fuel EX climbs really well, with plenty of poise. The Fuel EX does a solid job when the trails start to ascend. The seated position is excellent, with a steep seat angle putting you right where you need to be over the cranks when the front wheel is higher than the rear. When your weight shifts rearward, the suspension doesn’t seem to squat much, either, so the seat angle rarely dips from its steep position too much. Seated, the suspension is as good as solid when pedalling, with minimal movement of the shock under regular pedalling loads, leading to an efficient feel. The SE5 tyres roll fairly fast, thanks to their low tread height.

The Line 3 cockpit is harsher than 31.8mm-diameter bars. Stand up, and you can get the suspension bobbing about, but it doesn’t feel as wallowy as many in this situation, and the lockout lever is within easy reach on smoother drags. Get to a step up in the trail and the suspension stays static as the rear wheel crests the ledge. Traction on slippery roots from the SE5 rubber could be better too – though the trade-off would likely be some rolling resistance. When stood, you get the first impression that the chassis is stiff – there’s no spaghetti feeling as you put power through the cranks, and the whole setup feels, simply put, solid.

An omission from the XT drivetrain – the cassette. Despite all this, it’s not the fastest climbing bike ever. It has a reassuringly composed feel, rather than light and flighty, and during testing I never really felt myself being egged on to ramp up the watts to get up the hill faster. It’s a bit of a sit and spin bike. The Shimano drivetrain is good, with Trek speccing a largely XT groupset. Cassette specs seem to vary, like the brakes, with e*thirteen (as I have) and Shimano SLX being listed. The e*thirteen’s shifting performance isn’t quite as slick as a Shimano alternative in my experience, but does feel a little quieter when the drivetrain is covered in grit and grime, compared to Deore/SLX cassettes.

Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 descending performance

The stiff chassis still manages to hold lines well through corners. The solidity that was evident on the climbs is almost more so on descents. Trek has made a super-stout chassis that gives the Fuel EX an impressively composed feel on the trail. It is almost unshakeable, pretty much regardless of the terrain. The suspension doesn’t have a light, flighty feel, but is nicely damped, offering buckets of traction, whether you’re on the brakes or not, and provides ample isolation from the minutiae detail of the trail, without leaving you feeling entirely disconnected from it. Lighter riders may well find the shock over-damped. On big hits, after a slightly harsh entry into its travel, the shock is controlled, with a smooth transition towards the bottom of its travel, avoiding any nasty clunks as the shock bottoms out. This is in the normal rather than more progressive shock setting too.

Shimano’s XT drivetrain is crisp. In this, I struggled to get through all the travel, suggesting it may well work better with a coil shock (which is, by its very nature, less progressive at the end of its stroke). Drop the bike into a corner, and the chassis doesn’t flex, pushing your weight straight onto the tyre’s shoulder in a reassuring manner, and communicating exactly what’s happening through the rubber. It carves corners beautifully. Fire it through some janky rocks, and the bike seems to shrug off any attempt to push it off-line and you into trouble. It doesn’t display full monster-truck tendencies, but it’s certainly a bike that feels happy being pointed somewhere in the distance and then allowed to get there in as straight a line as possible. It’s a similar story on rolling trails, too. The suspension enables you to push and pump the bike through undulations, gathering speed, avoiding feeling like you’re trying to compress a marshmallow. Turn the pedals and you’re projected forward with ever-increasing speed.

A calm, composed ride leads you to hit features at speed. It even displays ample levels of agility, too – want to add a few air miles to your account? There’s support there to boost off a lip. Keen to whip the rear wheel round a tight bend? It’ll drop its shoulder and scrabble its rubber round when required. With a 485mm reach (large) and 64.5-degree head angle, the Fuel EX should excel on steep tracks, especially because the Fox Rhythm 36 has a similarly stout chassis and ample support when needed. However, you do need to trust both the brakes and the tyres in this situation.

SRAM’s new DB8 brakes failed to impress. The new SRAM DB8 brakes didn’t impress me in testing. They feel wooden through the lever, with a disconnected lever feel, and their power levels are down on both the SRAM G2 and Shimano’s similar offerings. Given Trek lists both the DB8 and Shimano M6100-series brakes on its spec list, given the choice, I’d opt for the Shimano stoppers. While I’ve been relatively complimentary of the tyres so far, their performance is outshone by Maxxis tyres on other trail Bike of the Year bikes. The tread depth is low, and so in sloppier conditions they don’t have the same bite. The slightly more rounded profile means the shoulder tread doesn’t engage the dirt as effectively as other tyres might.

Bontrager’s XR5 Team Issue tyres are okay in the dry, but struggle in the wet and aren’t the most supple. Compared to Maxxis’ 3C MaxxTerra rubber and EXO+ casing, these tyres can’t compete. They ping over rocks more and have less traction on damp rocks and roots. Early testing on the loam, mud and roots of the forest left me impressed. But later trips to the high-frequency rocky chatter of BikePark Wales revealed the Trek’s other weaknesses – the stiff frame, Line 30 wheels and oversized bars. These combined to transmit a whole lot of buzz straight to my hands. Add in under-powered brakes, and arm fatigue was an issue on prolonged rocky descents.

How does the Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 compare to the Merida One-Forty 700?

The Merida One-Forty 700 represents exceptional value for money. Trek and Merida each launched great new trail bikes in 2022. Both have clearly concentrated on the quality of their chassis, and target the trail rider who doesn’t want descending performance to be compromised. The Trek has a very assured feel – it’s calm, composed and really easy to ride. It’s agile and communicative too. The Merida (in the Long size that I tested) is radical in its shape, and climbs exceptionally well. It has a touch more pedal feedback, but both will tackle steep tech with ease. Merida pips the Trek, though, thanks to its better tyres and cracking value for money. It’s over £1,000 cheaper, and other than the single-can shock, rather than piggyback, I can’t see where it loses out spec-wise.

Trek Fuel EX 8 Gen 6 bottom line

The Fuel EX has a really planted feeling over the rocks. The Fuel EX is undoubtedly a great trail bike, and very nearly made it into my top three for this Bike of the Year category. It was the rockiest tracks that separated the best from the rest, though, and the stiff front end, as well as questionable value, squeezed the Trek off the podium. It’s a bike that best rewards an aggressive, rather than passive, riding style. Treat it right (and maybe get lucky with the brake specs) and you won’t be disappointed by the Fuel EX.

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• Best Mountain Bike Reviews

Best Trail Mountain Bikes

Trek fuel ex 9.8 gx axs gen 6 review.

• Fun Factor - 25% 10.0
• Downhill Performance - 35% 9.0
• Climbing Performance - 35% 8.0
• Ease of Maintenance - 5% 7.0

Our Verdict

Compare to similar products, our analysis and test results, should i buy this bike.

Trek has often built bikes that were a touch conservative for your author's primary bikes, especially in the trail category. The new Fuel throws that out the window; while the previous version felt like a fine bicycle, it didn't have the swagger of a true, modern trail bike. The new model nails the geometry and then allows for rider adjustments in both directions. This 140mm travel carbon trail bike is down for anything with a highly adjustable geometry, allowing the rider to dramatically alter the bike's personality for different terrain or riding. The head tube angle can be adjusted in six .5 degree increments between 63.5 to 66 degrees using the Mino Link and swappable headset cups (available separately). You can ride this bike as a versatile long-legged trail bike or slack it even further (62.9 degrees!) with a 27.5" mullet rear wheel. The versatility built into this bike won't future-proof it, but it certainly readies it for an immense selection of trails.

This bike lights up at speed; it charges the climbs, shreds the descents, and the ABP does a fantastic job keeping the rear wheel on the ground and engaged. The ride quality is fantastic in its stock geometry configuration, and its adjustability gives it so much versatility. The new Gen 6 frame looks burly, featuring in-frame storage, sturdy frame protection, size-specific chainstays, and a 34.9-seat tube. Our tested build features GX AXS, Bontrager carbon wheels, and Fox Performance suspension. It's clear that Trek sweated the details of the frames and the builds; the Integrated bar/stem combo is stiff and cool looking but loses all sweep/rise and stem length adjustability.

This bike has striking similarities to the Specialized Stumpjumper EVO with its geometry, adjustability, frame storage, and mullet-ability. Even the ride quality is similar between the two, what the Fuel EX 9.8 does better is keep the rear wheel on the ground, especially through rocky technical sections where you might tap the brakes. The ABP system works to isolate suspension forces from braking forces and does so effectively. We've become accustomed to "skittering" in technical braking situations that the ABP all but eliminates. Having more control over the descents makes this bike feel more composed. While we're pleased to see more bikes offering in-frame storage, its implementation on the Fuel isn't without fault. The opening is smaller than others, preventing us from stashing as many items in the downtube. Trek gives instructions on how to fold a tube, inflator, and CO2 cartridge inside the included Bontrager BITS internal frame storage bag, and it works if you follow their directions carefully. Trying to fit additional items or not folding the tube as shown results in failure. The Fuel EX 9.8 isn't exactly light; our size large test model weighed in at 32 lbs 9 ounces, even with its costly build. Does it matter? There's an adage around bike geeks that "A good bike weighs what it ought to," which certainly feels like the case here. This bike is also longer than almost any other trail bike we've tested, with a wheelbase of 1250mm. While that made tight switchbacks more challenging, it didn't feel like it negatively affected its handling and certainly contributed to its stability and confidence at speed. If you want a versatile trail slayer that won't leave you feeling held back, check out the Gen 6 Fuel lineup.

Frame Design

The Trek Fuel EX has been around for many years, and the latest version is referred to as the Gen 6 to denote the model's 6th generation. The Fuel EX has been completely redesigned and looks nothing like its predecessor, the Gen 5. First and foremost, travel is increased by 10mm at both ends to 150mm in front and 140mm in the rear. We tested the 9.8 GX AXS built around a full OCLV carbon frame that uses Trek's typical Active Braking Pivot or ABP suspension design. ABP is essentially a four-bar design with the main pivot attached just above the bottom bracket and a magnesium rocker link attached mid-way up the seat tube to compress a vertically oriented shock. ABP sets itself apart from other designs with a pivot point around the rear axle, which allows the suspension to move more freely while the brakes are applied. The lower shock mount spans two bridges between the down and seat tubes, and it has a flip chip to adjust the progressivity between less and more , giving it coil shock compatibility. In addition to having a dramatically different silhouette than previous versions of the Fuel EX, the Gen 6 also has in-tube internal cable routing (although the brake line runs externally along the chainstay). It has a large full-length down tube cover to protect it from trail debris and shuttle damage, along with the typical molded chainstay protection. The carbon and aluminum frames have internal frame storage and include a Bontrager BITS padded tool sleeve. The frame storage door also has a set of bottle bosses and a Bontrager bottle cage attached. Keen-eyed observers will also notice that the shape of the downtube no longer requires a knock-block headset, a very welcome change.

Geometry is one of the biggest things that sets the Gen 6 apart from the previous version of the Fuel EX , and Trek went all in to bring it in line with modern geometry and make it one of the most adjustable models on the market. Not surprisingly, it is longer and slacker with a modern 485mm reach on our size Large that goes along with a 64.5/65.1-degree head tube angle in the low/high Mino Link settings, respectively. Trek has given the Fuel EX size-specific chainstays starting at 435mm for XS-M frames, topping out at 450mm for XXL, with 440mm on our Large. Effective seat tube angles vary slightly between sizes and geometry settings but are relatively steep in the 77+ degree range. The bottom bracket sits fairly low at 335mm with 38mm of drop in the low/neutral setting, and flipping the Mino Link to high raises it by 8mm. M-XXL frames come with 29-inch wheels, XS comes with 27.5-inch wheels, and S frames are available with either. It's also mullet compatible with the Mino Link in High when run with a 160mm fork.

Design Highlights

• Comes in OCLV carbon fiber and aluminum frames
• 29-inch wheels (sizes M-XL), 27.5-inch wheels (size XS), 29 or 27.5 (size S)
• Mixed wheel/Mullet compatible with 160mm fork
• Size-specific chainstays
• Adjustable geometry with Mino-Link flip chips
• Adjustable geometry with swappable head cups (not included)
• Adjustable suspension progressivity, compatible with coil shocks
• Internal frame storage with BITS bag
• Threaded bottom bracket
• Comes in seven frame sizes
• Frame protection armor
• Great suspension set up guide on the Trek website

Downhill Performance

We've thus far highlighted its versatility, but the new Fuel Ex is a monster on the descent. 140mm of ABP rear-wheel travel does a phenomenal job of keeping the rear wheel engaged. The suspension design eats up chop and chunder while remaining confident in the drops. The redesigned frame is so much burlier and more aggressive; you can push this bike so hard you'll forget it's a mid-travel trail bike.

It comes alive at speed, inspiring confidence in rough and steep terrain. Adjustable geometry is a clear highlight, allowing the rider to set the bike up with a tremendous variety in personality and capability. This Fuel could be a park bike as easily as an all-day trail ride. Fox Performance suspension didn't give us access to separate dampening adjustments, but the suspension didn't generate complaints from any of our testers.

Uphill Performance

The new Fuel climbs incredibly well! Though muscular and somewhat heavy, its pedal platform is stable and supportive while efficiently transferring power. The bike sits high in its travel while climbing, offering very little squat, which helps the bike retain snappy handling despite the slack head tube. The carbon wheels featuring 108-point engagements are a pleasure to spin up. Ratcheting through a rock garden brings almost instant power transfer, leaving the bike lurching for more ground. The effective seat tube angle pushes 76.9 to 77.9 degrees, depending on your Mino Link and headset settings. As with most modern trail bikes, this steep angle leaves you ready to drop some quad power on the climbs.

Being directly over the cranks on this bike, you feel the lack of lateral flex as you grind out the climbs, especially out of the saddle. The front end of this bike is big; sitting atop the Performance 36 is a gorgeous 820mm bar with an effective stem length of 45mm. We're not sold on the merits of combining these components, but we never felt the need to adjust the sweep or rise and had no complaints about its performance. The bottom bracket height is almost worryingly low in the bike's lowest setting, yet we kept the pedals off the ground thanks to the suspension's anti-squat traits.

Mountain bikes are expensive, and nice mountain bikes are very expensive but also very enjoyable to ride. The GX AXS build we tested sells for $5999 with Fox Performance suspension. Our test bike was equipped with carbon wheels, a rapid engagement free hub, one piece bar / stem, and heroic tires. Some of the parts might not shine on a shelf by themselves, but there was nothing on this bike that we felt like replacing. This bike is priced competitively with today's top trail bikes; whether it's a good value or not is a bit subjective. If this bike doesn't feel like a great value to you, Trek offers an aluminum version of the new Fuel for less than half the price of this bike.

Previous generations of the Trek Fuel never quite scratched that trail itch for us, but this bike may have found the secret sauce. A longer-legged daily driver with swagger and adjustability, it's not too burly or squatty to crush the climbs. Its playfulness and descending prowess bring confidence and traction everywhere we want it. The lively feel and super active rear end keep the rear tire on the ground instead of skittering through the choppy stuff. With its versatility and adjustability, this will be a bike to ride for years to come.

How to Select the Right Mountain Bike

Former Warren police officers accused of unnecessary force charged with additional felonies

The Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office has added felony charges against two former Warren police officers accused of using unnecessary force during a traffic stop.

Former officers Dammeon Player and Carlos Taylor are accused of assaulting the driver of a semi tractor-trailer during a traffic stop July 20 in neighboring Center Line, which is outside the officers' jurisdiction, the Prosecutor's Office said.

More: Macomb Co. exec probe into 'tech issue' that halted news release on 2 Warren cops finds no glitches

Player was initially charged with assault with a dangerous weapon — a four year felony — and willful failure to uphold the law while a public official — a one-year misdemeanor.

After further review of the evidence, the willful failure to uphold the law charge was dismissed and the charge of misconduct in office, a five-year felony, was added to the charge of assault with a dangerous weapon, the Prosecutor's Office said in a press release Friday.

Player's next court date is 8:45 a.m. May 8 in Centerline District Court.

Taylor was initially charged with willful failure to uphold the law while a public official and assault and battery, a 93-day misdemeanor. After further review of the evidence, Taylor was also charged with misconduct in office — a five-year felony — along with the two other charges.

Taylor’s next court date is 8:45 a.m. June 5 in Centerline District Court.

"No badge grants immunity from accountability, and those who abuse their authority will face the full weight of justice,” Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido said in the release.

[email protected]

@_myeshajohnson

• Fuel EX 8 Gen 5

We'll take care of you. Period.

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

Free shipping and professional assembly

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

Warrantied for life

Each Trek carries a simple promise. We'll take care of you and do what's right.

'A world-class trail bike!'

'The Fuel EX is a beautifully balanced and capable trail bike. The rear suspension is beautiful; as close to ideal as any bike I've ridden. It's sensitive where you want it to be, firm and crisp where it should be. It feels deep and controls big hits very well, and there's a nice platform for pedalling, and to pump and pop off when you're playing.'

'Good at pleasing everybody.'

'The Fuel EX has a few tricks that help it keep a level head when outside of its comfort zone, and to be a cloud on rails when it's in the zone. Everything about the Fuel EX, which was already good at pleasing everybody, is now even better.'

'An absolute trail rocket.'

'Thanks to its burlier components, increased travel and more aggressive geometry, it has become more of a shredder than ever! More performance, fun and trail prowess.'

‘Perfect all-rounder’

‘In a world where most new full-suspension mountain bikes are amazing, Fuel EX stands apart as even more than that.’

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