trek fuel ex 2005

The 2005 Trek Fuel EX 7 is a mountain bike with an aluminum ZR 9000 / RockShox MC 2 frame. The frame comes in black or   silver  /  orange .

It was released in 2005 and costs $1,759 brand new. Due to the frame materials and other factors, we estimate that this bike weighs around 35 pounds. The Fuel EX 7 2005 has fork suspension.

The Fuel EX 7 2005 comes with Mountain Mix components, including a Bontrager Select stem and Shimano Deore RapidFire shifters.

The Rock Shox Reba SL fork has a true suspension.

The Fuel EX 7 2005 has 9 speeds and has a Shimano Deore derailleur.

It comes with Bontrager ACX tires (26in x 2.2in) and disc Bontrager Select Disc rims.

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Trek Fuel ex7 full suspension hydraulic disc brakes. 18" frame 26" Sram XO, X3

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• Fuel EX 7 Gen 5

Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 5

Fuel EX 7 shines when you're charging down tricky descents, where the upgraded suspension package comes in handy. A lightweight aluminum frame, tubeless ready wheels, and a reliable 1x12 SRAM NX Eagle drivetrain make this an awesome all-around full suspension mountain bike. It's right for you if... You want one bike that's fun to ride on every trail, and you want upgraded parts, like a smoother DebonAir spring fork and a completely tubeless setup for less weight and more traction. The tech you get A light yet stiff alloy frame, a 140mm RockShox fork with a DebonAir spring for better small-bump compliance, and a FOX shock. A 1x12 SRAM NX Eagle drivetrain with a wide gear range. Plus, Bontrager Line Comp 30 wheels with tubeless tires and a dropper post. The final word Fuel EX 7 is a great all-around trail bike for a wide variety of terrain. It has upgrades where it matters most, like the suspension, drivetrain, and tubeless ready Bontrager wheels. Why you'll love it - You get more traction and control with upgraded parts you won't outgrow right away as your skills progress - You're getting a solid trail bike that's ready for anything you are - The dropper post lets you lower your saddle on the fly so it's out of the way on descents - Wide Line Comp 30 wheels provide more tire support so you get better traction and control - We expanded our size range to ensure a better fit for all riders. And, you get the fastest wheel that fits your frame: XS frames get 27.5-inch wheels, S frames get to choose between 27.5-inch or 29-inch, and sizes M to XL get 29-inch wheels

Dropper posts

A dropper seatpost allows you to quickly lower and raise your seat to give you an ideal riding position. Dropping your seat creates a lower center of gravity for better control and maneuverability on steep descents, while raising it puts you at normal riding height for efficient pedaling.

Construction can include either hydraulic- or cable-actuated systems and the post’s travel can either be infinitely adjustable or stopped at set intervals, depending on the model.

Dropper seatposts come in standard lengths and diameters and vary by the amount of travel.

Will my bike have a curved top tube?

Smaller frames (XS and S) have a top tube that dips down as it approaches the seat tube. This design makes for a lower standover height, which is good for shorter riders because it allows them to straddle their bike more easily. Larger frames (M and up) have a straight top tube because taller riders with longer legs typically don’t have the same issues with standover height.

Wheel size: Sizes X-Small – Small: 27.5-inch Sizes Small – XX-Large: 29-inch

Pedals sold separately, due to supply-chain issues, specs are subject to change without notice..

* Subject to change without notice.

• Crosscountry
• Rider Notes

2005 Trek Fuel EX 9

A 26″ carbon frame full suspension crosscountry bike with high-end components. Compare the full range

For This Bike

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

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Add custom gearing

Apr 2006 · Seb Rogers

Trek's successful Fuel design has been around for a few years, spawning longer-travel offshoots as well as high end cross-country race machines. The Fuel 70 is true to its roots,

Read Review

Last updated June 29 Not listed for 2,501 days

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2005 Trek Fuel EX7?

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Looking to buy one. It's stock, includes a bike computer, and they are asking $600obo. Is that a good deal? It's in good shape.  

It's a good starter full suspension bike, the price seems fair, but you can probably bargain him down to the $400s. Personally, I would rather spend a couple hundred more to get a used '08 Fuel EX with 120mm travel vs the 100mm of the '05, but that depends entirely on the terrain and intended purpose.  

I just picked up a mint 2007 Ex8 for $390  

Drewcifer84 said: I just picked up a mint 2007 Ex8 for $390 Click to expand...

That generation of EX7 got poor reviews for its rear suspension. I would suggest shopping around for a 2008 or later EX7 or EX8 since the ABP suspension is a major improvement.  

SlowJoeCrow said: That generation of EX7 got poor reviews for its rear suspension. I would suggest shopping around for a 2008 or later EX7 or EX8 since the ABP suspension is a major improvement. Click to expand...

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Trek Fuel EX 5 Review

• Downhill - 35% 8.0
• Climbing - 35% 7.0
• Fun Factor - 30% 8.0

Our Verdict

Compare to similar products, our analysis and test results.

Should I Buy This Bike?

Anyone just getting into the sport or operating on a tight budget would be wise to consider the Fuel EX 5 . Trek's 2020 redesign of the Fuel EX line made this bike more capable and well-rounded than the previous version with an updated geometry and rear suspension design. The geometry is modern without being over the top, and this bike's supple suspension feels great whether you're cruising mellow flow trails or rolling down a steep rocky section. It's a little on the heavy side and it feels a bit lethargic on the climbs compared to some of the competition, but it's comfortable and reasonably efficient nonetheless. While it was bested by the competition in this review, our testers were actually quite impressed with the overall performance of the Fuel EX 5. This is a killer bike at this price.

It used to be that testing bikes in this price range could be a little nerve-racking, but bikes like the Fuel EX 5 promote far more smiles and stoke than they did just a couple of years ago. This is thanks to modern trail bike geometry, and a thoughtful component spec that brings the performance of this entry-level model closer to that of the higher-end builds. Even our seasoned testers, all of whom are bike snobs with a preference for high-end models, had a blast while riding this relatively well-rounded and versatile mid-travel trail bike. It definitely has a preference for the descents, and it shines when pointed downhill with supple suspension, ample traction, and confidence-inspiring angles that don't hold you back.

The ABP suspension design of the Fuel EX is quite active, and it gives this bike a distinct trail-smoothing and ground-hugging feel, along with excellent stability on the descents. It's not the most lively or playful bike, but it flows down the trail comfortably with modern geometry that performs well on a huge range of terrain. The Fuel isn't an especially energetic climber, but it's competent, comfortable, and reliable enough on the ascents to get you back to the top for more laps or be a trusty companion on longer rides. Sure, there are a couple of components on this budget-minded build that we'd replace if this bike were our own, but this bike still punches above its weight class and is far more fun to ride than we'd expect at this price.

Downhill Performance

The Fuel EX 5 is a smooth operator on the descents. This bike is stable, ground-hugging, and has supple rear suspension that feels great when gravity takes over. The geometry inspires the confidence to let it rip on the descents and it has a user-friendliness that makes it easy to get along with, and versatility to be fun on a huge range of terrain. Its 130mm of rear-wheel travel is paired with a 140mm fork, landing it squarely in the mid-travel category which is ideal for most riders.

When Trek redesigned the Fuel EX models for the 2020 model year they addressed the majority of modern trail bike geometry trends, making it longer and slacker than its predecessor. This has made the Fuel more capable than ever before and this bike can tackle anything you're willing to try and ride down. They also gave it flip-chip adjustable geometry, so the rider can change the head and seat tube angles by 0.5-degrees and raise/lower the bottom bracket height by 5mm. This is a nice feature to dial in the geometry to your preferences, though our testers found the low setting to be pretty ideal for everyday trail riding. When we measured our test bike we found that it had exactly the numbers we like to see these days. A 66-degree head tube angle, 470mm reach, and a 1210mm wheelbase seem to be about the sweet spot for a modern mid-travel trail bike. Throwing a leg over it, however, all of our testers noted that this bike felt smaller than other size large test bikes with similar measurements. That said, this bike's long wheelbase helps to make it very stable at speed while the 66-degree head tube angle helps make it feel confident rolling into steeper terrain.

Trek's ABP suspension design makes for a very supple rear end, and this bike has excellent small bump compliance and performance over high-frequency chop. The Fuel hugs the ground and smoothes the trail very well, though it doesn't give much support in the mid-stroke. Unfortunately, the ground-hugging suppleness of the rear suspension takes a little life and pop out of the rear end making this bike a little less playful than it could be. That said, it likes to mob downhill and it does it well, just with a little less flair than some of the competition. The RockShox Recon fork is also nice and supple and pairs well with the rear suspension, though on some bigger hits and blunt edges it will occasionally remind you that it's a budget fork.

Trek has outfitted all of the new Fuel EX models with dropper posts and wide tubeless rims and tires. This includes the EX 5 model we tested that came with 2.6" wide Bontrager XR4 tires. These tires have loads of air volume that allow for running lower pressures, as well as a versatile tread pattern that helped give it predictable cornering traction. Our testers love the fact that bikes in this price come with dropper posts, and the TranzX model on the Fuel is far better than nothing, but the 130mm travel length felt a little short on a size large frame. The cockpit setup is generally fine, but our testers would have preferred a handlebar wider than 750mm for muscling this bike around. Like many of the other bikes in this review, the Fuel EX 5 comes with Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes. These brakes work fine and they generally handle the stopping duties reasonably well, but they feel a little underpowered for the speeds this bike can travel.

Climbing Performance

The Fuel EX 5 is a relatively capable and comfortable going uphill, but climbing isn't this bike's strongest suit. It does just fine mind you, but it wouldn't be our first choice if we prioritized a quick or energetic feeling climbing experience. The geometry seems like it should be great, but it is held back a little by its weight, super active rear suspension, and some questionable components.

To be honest, the Fuel EX 5 climbs pretty darn well for a mid-travel bike in this price range, it's just bested on the climbs by some of the lighter weight and more efficient competition. It can manage just about any climb, it just has a somewhat lethargic feel to it due to its 33+ lb weight and super active rear suspension. The weight of this bike isn't terrible, but certainly noticeable when ridden back to back with lighter models. We're also fans of the Trek's ABP rear suspension design, although, without the RE:aktiv valving found on the rear shocks of their higher-end models the EX 5 is a little more active in the back than we'd like. The pedal bob when seated isn't that bad, but it sucks the life out of any out of the saddle efforts or short sprints uphill. Thankfully, the rear shock has a compression damping switch which is very useful on this bike for climbing on any sort of road. In addition to the pedal bob, the Recon fork on this bike also had a tendency to dive when the rider's weight got forward. The Fuel EX 5 is best suited to less aggressive climbers who aren't racing anyone to the top of the hill.

On paper, the geometry of the Fuel EX 5 seems totally dialed and in line with all of the modern trends. In practice, this bike feels significantly smaller and more cramped than those numbers suggest. Our taller testers wished for a larger frame size, and this was confirmed when we tested a higher-end model in an XL. If you're on the cusp of a frame size, we'd suggest taking a test ride if you can and possibly sizing up. That said, testers found the seated pedaling position to be generally comfortable, though the shorter reach resulted in a relatively upright and unaggressive stance. The steep seat tube lines the rider up above the bottom bracket and power is transferred straight down into the cranks. The 1210mm wheelbase sounds somewhat long, but again, everything about this bike felt smaller than it measured and it was generally easy to maneuver in virtually any terrain. There is a flip-chip to adjust the geometry of the Fuel EX slightly, though our testers found the Low setting to be good for everyday trail riding. This bike also has a knock block headset which prevents the fork from contacting and damaging the downtube, and testers found it to limit the turning radius in super tight corners.

The build of the Fuel EX 5 is a mixed bag on the climbs. The 2.6" wide Bontrager XR4 tires are a high point with a huge contact patch and a tread that provides loads of traction in a range of conditions. Testers were less than impressed with the spec of a Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain. Sure, the shifting is crisp and reliable, but it simply doesn't have the range offered by the competitors with 12-speed drivetrains. There's nothing worse than trying to downshift and realizing you're already in your easiest gear.

The Fuel EX 5 's frame is made from Trek's Alpha Platinum Aluminum with 130mm of rear-wheel travel using the Active Braking Pivot (ABP) suspension design. The 2020 Fuel models have seen some changes to this rear suspension design, mostly that they now use a fixed lower shock mount as opposed to the full-floater design of years past. The frame has a knock-block headset, flip-chip adjustable geometry, internal cable routing, integrated downtube and chainstay protection, and a bottle cage mount within the front triangle.

The 5 is the least expensive build in Trek's line of Fuel EX models and the component specification reflects that. This is especially true of the suspension components, although they work reasonably well for the price. The 140mm of front wheel travel are handled by a RockShox Recon RL fork, the same fork found on several other bikes in this review. This fork works reasonably well and feels supple, though it can feel a bit flexy and harsh on bigger hits or high-speed chop. The RockShox Deluxe Select+ rear shock is a nice spec at this price point, and it feels especially supple paired with the ABP design on the rear end of this bike. It also has a compression damping/climbing switch, which was appreciated during long climbs.

Trek has spec'd the entire Fuel EX line with wide tubeless-ready rims and tires, a nice touch. The 5 comes with a Formula front hub and Bontrager rear hub laced to Alex MD35 tubeless-ready rims with a healthy 35mm internal width. These wide rims pair quite well with the 2.6" Bontrager XR4 tires mounted front and rear. The XR4 tires are a solid all-around tire with loads of air volume and plenty of traction on most surfaces, they also proved to be more durable than our testers expected.

As with most bikes in this price range, Trek has spec'd the Fuel EX 5 with a bunch of house-brand Bontrager cockpit components. This includes the 750mm wide handlebar and 50mm Bontrager Rhythm Comp stem. The 750mm wide handlebar is a little narrow by today's standards, but testers didn't find it to be a detriment to this bike's handling. The 130mm TranzX dropper seatpost is far better than none at all, but testers felt that it was a little short for a size Large frame. The Bontrager Arvada saddle was ok, but far from the most comfortable seat we've experienced lately.

Trek is offering the Fuel EX 5 at a very reasonable price, and one of the ways they've managed to keep the price so low is by spec-ing a Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain. In this day and age, we are accustomed to 11 and 12-speed drivetrains, so this seems a little weak. That said, Shimano's 10-speed works reliably even if it doesn't offer as much range for steep climbs as the competition. As with many of the other bikes in this test, the Fuel comes with Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes. They work, but they have a cheap lever feel, aren't especially powerful, nor do they offer much modulation.

Trek makes bikes for the masses, and with the Fuel EX 5 they are offering a quality, versatile trail bike at an accessible price. Of course, $2,100 is still a chunk of change, but in a world where mountain bikes can cost upwards of $10K, we feel this is a great value. This is an excellent entry-level trail bike that would serve a lot of riders in a lot of locations very well.

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Trek Fuel EX 5

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Size / 15.5", 17.5", 19.5", 21.5"

At a glance

Where to buy.

Specifications

• Frame Alpha SLR Aluminum main frame w/100mm travel
• Wheels Shimano M475 disc hubs; Bontrager Ranger rims
• Wheel Size 26"
• Tires Bontrager Jones XR 26x2.2/2.25", 27 tpi
• Crank Shimano M442 44/32/22
• Front Derailleur Shimano Deore
• Rear Derailleur SRAM X-5
• Shifters SRAM X-5, 9 speed
• Brakeset Avid BB-5, mechanical disc w/alloy levers
• Handlebar Bontrager Crowbar Sport, 25mm rise
• Saddle Bontrager Race Basic Lux
• Seatpost Bontrager Sport
• Stem Bontrager Sport, 10 degree
• Headset Aheadset Slimstak w/semi-cartridge bearings, sealed

Q: Where to buy a 2007 Trek Fuel EX 5?

The 2007 Trek Fuel EX 5 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: What size wheels does the 2007 Trek Fuel EX 5 have?

The 2007 Trek Fuel EX 5 has 26" wheels.

Q: What size 2007 Trek Fuel EX 5 should I get?

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FIRST RIDE REVIEW

The new trek fuel ex review.

Photos & Words by Dario DiGiulio

As mountain biking has evolved into what it is today, the trails we ride on have slowly but surely raised the bar of what modern bikes have to keep up with. Sure, some tracks have been sanitized over time, but there’s no question that the pointy end of the sport has kept pushing forward. As a result, trail bikes have had to pick up the pace to match the expectations of the average rider, leading to more capable and confident rigs with every new model. Stepping up to the plate, we have the evolved version of the Trek Fuel EX, Trek’s mainstay trail bike. This time it’s really meant to do it all, riding anywhere and doing anything. Being this adaptable can be a tricky task though, so has Trek painted themselves into a corner?

The new Trek Fuel EX breaks just about every mold that the prior generations had fit into, with a full-on redesign for the new model. The name of the game here is adaptability, whether in the geometry, the suspension kinematics, or even what size wheels you’ll run. Thanks to their Mino Link flip chip and two sets of press-in headset cups, you can shift the character of this bike drastically to suit your terrain and preference. As a result, it’s a bit hard to parse out the specific geometry of the bike (however Trek’s site features a geometry tool to let you do so), so I’ll just speak to it in its most neutral form, which is where many will likely settle. There are a whopping 8 size variations to this bike from XS to XXL, so it’s worth digging through the geometry tables to see which might suit you best. They’re all sporting 140mm of rear travel with a 150mm fork, upping the numbers on the prior generation by 10mm.

I’ve been testing the large frame, which puts the reach and stack at around 485mm and 621mm, which are in line with the majority of the industry right now. In keeping with the new Trek Fuel EX’s theme of being adaptable and capable. In its neutral-low setting, the bike comes with a 64.5-degree head tube angle and the effective seat tube angle sits at 77.2-degrees. Chainstays shift with the frame size, and on a large come in at 440mm. Thanks to the Mino Link flip chip, you can adjust bottom bracket height by 8mm up from the slammed 38mm drop in stock configuration, with a 0.6° steeper head tube and seat tube angle. The more significant head tube adjustment comes from the independent press-in headset cups that Trek supplies, which can steepen or slacken things by a full degree, giving a very wide range of handling characteristics. The last frame toggle is the progression flip chip, offering a simple more or less option to tailor the suspension feel and offer uncompromised coil shock compatibility.

As is trend right now, you can set the Fuel Ex up as a mullet, simply by popping a 27.5” wheel in the rear, swapping the Mino Link to high mode, and bumping up fork travel to 160mm. The bike comes stock as a 29er front and rear (or 27.5″ in XS and Small), so you’ll have to make this change on your own accord.

A notable thing lacking from the newest Fuel EX its the Knock Block – you’ll find no such thing on this frame. X-up fans take note, as this is a big move for the engineers in Waterloo, Wisconsin, and was necessary to achieve the headset adjustment range they wanted. Trek has also moved away from the RE:aktiv damper shock, now simply relying on an off-the-shelf model. Still included in the frames are the handy-dandy stash box in the down tube, with what I think might be the best weather sealing of any of the options on the market at this point, and a neat BITS tool roll.

Build kits come in as many flavors as the sizes, and the range of options is quite extensive, beginning at a respectable $3,699. I’ve been on the highest end build, the 9.9 AXS especial, coming in at a healthy $10,749. From Bontrager Line 30 carbon wheels, to the RSL one-piece carbon cockpit, to the XX1 drivetrain, just about everything is as nice as it gets, as you’d hope for this kind of money.

At my height of 6’3”, the geo combination of the Neutral-Low-More flip chip configuration on the large size makes for a really comfortable fit,  one that feels stable enough at speed while still remaining lively for your average trail. I started my time testing the bright yellow Trek up in Whistler, riding some gnarly rocky pedal-access trails around the Valley. This was a great context for deciding where I stood on the less or more progression debate, and I settled on the latter end of the spectrum. Increased bottom-out resistance and a more supple top of travel were worth a slightly punchier suspension feel, and I stand by that choice for most of the riding I have around me. On my home trails in Bellingham, the Fuel has been a choice companion for fast and fun rides in our local trail systems, where technical and engaging climbs lead to fast, rooty, and jump-filled descents. My general synopsis is that this is a bike that loves to ride fast, both up and down.

The climbing characteristics are comfortable and neutral, without wallowing too much or lacking grip in trickier terrain. Like many of the take-aways of the bike as it comes stock, things are extra-medium, in the best way. Compared to the new Hightower, the bike has slightly less support, but is significantly better in rough terrain and successive hits. Compared to the Stumpjumper EVO, the Fuel EX is definitely more of a trail bike, less of the all-mountain enduro-lite ride that the Specialized offers. All three bikes serve as a nice gradient from the lighter and sportier end of the trail spectrum to the burlier and more capable side of the category. Sitting pretty right in the middle is the Fuel EX, but I’m sure one could tweak it to either of the other extremes, given how much variability is baked into this frame.

Build kit notes are mostly positive, which you’d hope to see from the highest end build. My main gripe is with the Bontrager SE5 tires, which are some the least confidence-inspiring I’ve ridden in recent memory. The casing and tread pattern are fine, but the compound doesn’t seem to want to hook up anywhere, whether it’s dry loose terrain, rock slabs, and especially wet roots. This would be an immediate swap in my book, and I’d just keep the stock tires to run in the rear when conditions are dry and beat at the peak of summer.

The removable shuttle pad doesn’t seem to want to stay close to the frame, and bows out slightly when attached, giving the downtime a funny bulged look to it. One other frame annoyance has been a recurring suspension knock, despite chasing through every bolt in the linkage with a torque wrench. I still have yet to find the culprit, but luckily it’s not very noticeable when riding.

As a system, I’ve been more than impressed by Trek’s work on the new Fuel EX. Not only does it feel quick and confidant in the stock configuration, it also offers a whole host of layout options to better cater the bike to your preferences.

THE WOLF’S FIRST IMPRESSION

To close out our review of the new Trek Fuel Ex, it’s clear that Trek’s engineers and designers set out to design a bike that caters to that wide center of the market – the trail bike – where most riders spend their time, and where a bike can take many forms. In that goal, they found success. Sure some riders may feel the new Fuel EX has departed from what they were used to and liked about the bike, but many other riders will likely welcome the advancements in capability and confidence on the trail. The Fuel EX is a highly adaptable bike that feels comfortable in a really wide variety of terrain but doesn’t confuse itself for anything more or less. Bike riders, rejoice.

TREK FUEL EX 7

Price: $3,699.99

Frame: Alpha Platinum Aluminum, internal storage | 140mm Fork: RockShox 35 Gold RL | 150mm Shock: Fox Performance Float EVOL

Drivetrain: Shimano SLX/XT Brakes: Shimano MT420 4-piston

Wheelset: Bontrager Line Comp 30, Rapid Drive 108

TREK FUEL EX 8

Price: $4,299

Frame: Alpha Platinum Aluminum, internal storage | 140mm Fork: Fox Rhythm 36 | 150mm Shock: Fox Performance Float X

Drivetrain: Shimano XT M8100 Brakes: Shimano Deore M6120

TREK FUEL EX 9.7

Price: $6,249.99

Frame: OLCV Mountain Carbon, internal storage | 140mm Fork: Fox Rhythm 36 | 150mm Shock: Fox Performance Float X

Drivetrain: Shimano SLX/XT Brakes: Shimano Deore M6120

TREK FUEL EX 9.8

GX AXS Price: $7,699.99 XT Price: $6,749.99

Frame: OLCV Mountain Carbon, internal storage | 140mm Fork: Fox Performance 36 | 150mm Shock: Fox Performance Float X

Wheelset: Bontrager Line Elite 30, OCLV Carbon, Rapid Drive 108

GX AXS BUILD Drivetrain: SRAM GX Eagle AXS Brakes: SRAM CODE R

XT BUILD Drivetrain: Shimano XT M8100 Brakes: Shimano XT M8120

TREK FUEL EX 9.9

XX1 AXS Price: $10,749.99 XTR Price: $9,749.99

Frame: OLCV Mountain Carbon, internal storage | 140mm Fork: Fox Factory 36 | 150mm Shock: Fox Factory Float X

Wheelset: Bontrager Line Pro 30, OCLV Carbon, Rapid Drive 108

XX1 AXS BUILD Drivetrain: SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS Brakes: SRAM CODE RSC

XT BUILD Drivetrain: Shimano XTR M9100 Brakes: Shimano XTR M9120

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Trek Fuel EX 2023 Review | A bigger, musclier & hugely adaptable trail bike

The not-so-minor details.

2023 Trek Fuel EX

https://www.trekbikes.com

$4,999 AUD - $8,999 AUD

- Sturdy, flex-free chassis - Superb geometry with adjustable head angle - Efficient & comfortable climbing performance - Coil shock, big fork & mullet compatibility - Mechanic-friendly frame furnishings - Internal storage

- Frame is on the heavy side - Rear shock tune lacks small-bump suppleness - Rattly rear thru-axle lever

Wil reviews the Trek Fuel EX 2023

Having undergone a ground-up redesign for 2023, the Trek Fuel EX has entered its burliest and biggest travel form yet. This latest model represents the 6th generation of Trek’s popular mid-travel trail bike, with the original having debuted all the way back in 2005. Trail riding has evolved a lot since then, and the new Fuel EX aims to keep up with that evolution by incorporating almost every mod-con you can think of.

Of course it’s big news whenever Trek releases a new Fuel EX, and given how important this bike is for the US brand, we were curious to see how the raft of updates would play out on the trail. We had a bit of an idea, having thoroughly enjoyed riding the electrified Trek Fuel EXe over the past few months. Would the muscle-powered version deliver the same good vibes? And how would it compare to the previous models that have given us so many fond riding memories over the years? We’ve been putting the Trek Fuel EX 2023 to the test to find out!

Watch our video review of the Trek Fuel EX 2023:

Along with the downtube storage, generous frame armour and size-specific chainstays, the Fuel EX appears to pack in almost everything you could possibly want in a modern trail bike.

An overview of the Trek Fuel EX 2023

For 2023, the Trek Fuel EX is built around an entirely new frame that’s produced in carbon and alloy variants. Suspension travel has increased by 10mm at both ends, with the new Fuel EX now sporting a 150mm fork and 140mm of rear travel via the ABP four-bar suspension design.

It’s worth noting that the frame will handle a 160mm travel fork, and thanks to the two-position Mino Link, it can also be run as a mullet. Borrowed from the Session downhill bike, there’s a two-position flip chip at the lower shock mount that offers linear and progressive settings. The latter option is what makes the new Fuel EX coil shock compatible.

On top of that, Trek will be offering aftermarket headset cups to steepen or slacken the head angle by a degree. Along with the downtube storage, generous frame armour and size-specific chainstays, the Fuel EX appears to pack in almost everything you could possibly want in a modern trail bike. It’s certainly an appealing package on paper, and one that’s ready to take on contemporaries like the Specialized Stumpjumper , Merida One-Forty , Canyon Spectral and Giant Trance X .

Trek Fuel EX price & specs

There are a number of different models available in the Trek Fuel EX 2023 lineup, though availability will vary depending on where you are in the world.

In Australia, prices currently range from $4,999 AUD for the Fuel EX 7, and go up to $8,999 AUD for the Fuel EX 9.8 XT model. The cheapest option is actually the Fuel EX 5, though that model carries over the previous generation frame. For a closer look at the specs, prices and all the new details, check out our Trek Fuel EX 2023 overview article for more.

Here we’ll be diving into our experience of testing the Trek Fuel EX 9.9 XX1 AXS model, which will be available in Australia in limited quantities through the custom Project One bike builder. It’s a media bike that was provided to us by Trek, and of course it comes dripping with lots of gold, carbon and wireless bits. However, as usual with our reviews, we won’t be going into detail about the Gucci-level spec. Instead, we’ll be concentrating on the important aspects that are shared throughout the Fuel EX lineup; the frame design, suspension performance and its on-trail handling.

2023 Trek Fuel EX 9.9 XX1 AXS

• Frame |  OCLV Mountain Carbon Fibre, ABP Suspension Design, 140mm Travel
• Fork |  Fox 36, Factory Series, GRIP2 Damper, 44mm Offset, 150mm Travel
• Shock |  Fox Float X, Factory Series, 185x55mm
• Wheels |  Bontrager Line Pro 30, OCLV Carbon Rims, 29mm Inner Width
• Tyres |  Bontrager SE5 Team Issue 2.5in Front & Rear
• Drivetrain |  SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS1×12 w/30T Crankset & 10-52T Cassette
• Brakes |  SRAM Code RSC 4-Piston
• Bar |  Bontrager RSL Integrated, OCLV Carbon, 27.5mm Rise, 820mm Width
• Stem |  Bontrager RSL Integrated, OCLV Carbon, 45mm Length
• Seatpost |  RockShox Reverb AXS, 34.9mm Diameter, Travel: 100mm (S), 150mm (M-M/L), 170mm (L), 200mm (XL)
• Saddle |  Bontrager Arvada, Austentite Rails
• Confirmed Weight | 14.4kg
• RRP |  $TBC

The chassis feels near-bombproof, and combined with the supportive suspension, powerful brakes and high volume rubber, you’re served up plenty of confidence for pushing the front wheel into steep chutes and over technical A-lines.

Trek Fuel EX size & geometry

From X-Small through to XX-Large, the Trek Fuel EX is produced in no fewer than seven different sizes. Seven! Given that many brands only offer four or sometimes even just three frame sizes, that’s impressive.

The two smallest sizes feature 27.5in wheels, while the Medium and above come standard with 29in wheels. The Small is the only option that is available in either wheelsize.

At 175cm tall I’ve been riding a Medium, which features a 450mm reach. Thanks to the use of short seat tubes, a rider of my height could easily upsize to the M/L size to get a longer 470mm reach. Personally, I’ve found the fit of the Medium to be spot-on.

As for geometry, the Fuel EX features a 64.5° head angle and approximately a 77.5° effective seat tube angle in its stock configuration. The rear centre length varies between sizes, going up to 450mm on the largest frame. On the Medium I’ve been riding, the rear centre is a compact 435mm.

Coming off the Fuel EXe, I found it easy to settle into the Fuel EX. The only modification I needed to perform was to chop the comically wide handlebars from 820mm down to a more reasonable 780mm.

Suspension & tyre setup

Getting the Fuel EX set up is made easy thanks to Trek’s detailed online suspension calculator . Input the bike model and your riding weight, and out spits suggested air pressure and rebound settings for both the fork and shock. It even suggests tyre pressures, giving you a good place to start before hitting the trail. When brands like Canyon struggle to provide any recommendations at all, Trek should be commended for helping riders to get the most out of their bike.

For my 68kg riding weight, Trek suggests setting up the Fox 36 fork slightly softer and slower than usual. Recommended rear shock sag is 29%, and the calculator’s suggestion of 158psi got me to exactly that figure. Initially I set the rebound at 6/15 clicks as recommended, but while everything felt quite balanced front to back, the suspension was a little sluggish and duller than I wanted. Speeding up the rebound by a couple of clicks in both the fork and shock helped to make the whole bike feel a bit more lively, while improving small-bump reactivity.

Although the Bontrager SE5 tyres feature reinforced Core Strength casings, I still fitted a CushCore Pro insert to provide some additional pinch-flat protection and insurance for the carbon rims. Tyre pressures were set as per Trek’s recommendations with 20psi in the front and 22psi in the rear.

Trek Fuel EX weight

Confirmed weight for our Trek Fuel EX test bike is 14.4kg. That’s with the tyres set up tubeless, but without the CushCore insert or pedals.

It’s on the heavier side for a high-end carbon trail bike, though the 2.5in tyres, stocky carbon wheels and AXS components aren’t exactly the lightest going. Of course weights do vary throughout the Fuel EX lineup depending on the spec, and you can see the weights for all the different models in our range overview .

A contributing factor to the overall weight is the new frame, which has gained almost 700g over its predecessor. Trek claims the carbon frame weighs 3.4kg with the rear shock, making it a bit of a porker alongside some of the competition;

• Scott Genius HMX Carbon: 2,249g
• Specialized Stumpjumper Carbon: 2,280g
• Giant Trance X Advanced Pro 29: 2,498g
• Specialized Stumpjumper EVO Carbon: 2,750g
• Canyon Spectral CF: 3,047g
• Trek Fuel EX Carbon: 3,400g

The new alloy Fuel EX frame is heavier again, coming in at a hefty 4.6kg with shock.

Of course weight isn’t everything, and it’s unsurprising that the new frame has gotten heavier given how much longer and slacker it is. Still, for those who are especially concerned by grams, there are certainly lighter options on the market.

What do we dig about the Trek Fuel EX 2023?

With its added heft and updated geometry, the Trek Fuel EX 2023 is no doubt the burliest iteration yet. The chassis feels near-bombproof, and combined with the supportive suspension, powerful brakes and high volume rubber, you’re served up plenty of confidence for pushing the front wheel into steep chutes and over technical A-lines.

Indeed it’s massively capable for a 140mm travel bike, with the slack 64.5° head angle and roomy wheelbase giving it a purposeful stance on the trail. The geometry is superb, with welcome updates that have brought the Fuel EX right up to speed.

The steeper seat angle is particularly noticeable over the old bike, providing a much improved seated position on steep climbs. Pedalling efficiency has also levelled up. Trek has lifted the main pivot above the chainring to increase anti-squat, which helps to reduce pedal-induced bobbing. The Float X shock has a two-position climb switch, but I never once needed to use it while riding off-road since the rear end is so well behaved.

It rips through the turns

Once up to speed on flower singletrack, the taut chassis means the Trek Fuel EX is highly responsive when rounding corners and pushing into berms.

With its boxy downtube, split top tube and the supporting strut for the lower shock mount, the front triangle is heavily braced to resist torsional flex. Along with the wide main pivot and boxy one-piece chainstays, the Fuel EX possesses a strong spine from its shapely head tube to the rear thru-axle. The muscly frame effectively translates handling inputs while resisting lateral deflection through the turns.

Likewise, the short rear end and generous 38mm BB drop are fantastic when threading your way through twisty sections of trail, keeping you connected to the terrain and contributing to the playful ride quality. The low-hanging BB did mean I caught the pedals occasionally, so those who frequent off-piste terrain and technical climbs will want to consider flipping the Mino Link into the High position to indulge in an extra 7mm of pedal clearance.

Otherwise the riding position and weight distribution are totally sorted. The handling is approachable, and the Fuel EX doesn’t demand a whole lot from you as the rider. Compared to the old bike it does need a more concerted lean when entering tighter corners, though this is a part of the natural evolution of modern trail bike geometry. Even if you’re coming off a 5-year old bike, you’ll only need a few rides to get accustomed to the Fuel EX’s steering behaviour.

Trail-tweakable

In addition to the Mino Link, we’ve also been experimenting with the lower shock flip chip on the Trek Fuel EX. Requiring just a single 6mm hex key, it’s a quick adjustment to make trailside, and the change in suspension behaviour is noticeable.

I ended up preferring the ‘Less’ setting, which provides a more linear leverage rate. With the shock set at the recommended sag, this position provides great pedalling support, along with more comfort and activity deeper into the stroke. There’s still a good deal of progression though. Combined with the large bottom-out bumper in the Float X shock, hitting full travel proved to be a well-controlled affair.

One of our fellow testers, who generally spends more time in the air than on the ground, preferred riding in the ‘More’ setting. This increases progression, providing a stronger ramp-up in the latter half of the travel. He also reduced the shock pressure by 5psi to further enhance small-bump compliance, while still being able to enjoy the additional big-hit support. Pedal efficiency isn’t as stable in this setting, but it does mean the Fuel EX takes to jumps like a duck to water, popping off lips enthusiastically and absorbing hard landings with a solid and flex-free touchdown.

One thing to note on the More/Less flip chip is that while you are altering the progression of the air spring, you’re also affecting the damper too. As well as adjusting air pressure, we found we needed to tweak the rebound and low-speed compression settings between the two positions. It is indeed a useful tuning tool, but it doesn’t dispel the need for air volume spacers entirely.

What does it struggle with?

With the Trek Fuel EX adopting a beefier frame, the added weight is noticeable compared to lighter bikes in this category. That’s compounded by the heavy-duty brakes, stocky wheels and chunky tyres, which mean there’s more inertia to overcome during micro-accelerations on an undulating climb.

For those who are looking for a sharper and sprightlier trail bike to whip through the trees along smoother singletrack, the latest Trek Top Fuel will be a better fit. In comparison, the new Fuel EX is a burlier beast that thrives on steeper and more technical terrain.

Curiously, it does feel stiffer than the electrified version, the Fuel EXe . Despite both our test bikes featuring carbon frames with a near-identical build kit, I’ve found the Fuel EX to transmit more trail feedback.

Some of this may be due to structural differences, and perhaps the more favourable sprung-to-unsprung mass ratio on the electric version thanks to the added weight of the motor and and battery. Either way, the Fuel EX doesn’t exactly exude off-camber compliance. As a lighter rider on very rocky terrain, I’ve found myself getting knocked around a little more than I would like.

This sensation reminded me of the Canyon Spectral 125 , which proved to be overly stiff and quite uncomfortable at slower riding speeds. The Fuel EX is more compliant overall than the Spectral 125, but it’s still pretty stiff.

It’s not as supple as Fuel EX models gone by

Contributing to this sensation, the suspension isn’t as plush as previous Fuel EX models, particularly those that featured the Thru Shaft shock. Those bikes did require the rider to make use of the compression lever to provide pedalling support, but it meant that in the open mode the rear end absorbed the terrain like melted butter.

You may have noticed that Trek has been making a conscious move away from proprietary suspension components lately, and that’s coincided with building bikes that offer more neutral pedalling performance. The increased anti-squat is one part of the equation on the new Fuel EX, and the other part is the custom-tuned Float X, which Trek has configured with a digressive compression tune on the main piston. This creates a decent low-speed threshold, which provides a level of support that sits between the Open and Medium settings on the previous RE:aktiv damper.

The result is that you can ride with the shock fully open, and the Fuel EX still offers great stability under pedalling inputs, with no real need to activate the climb switch. If you detest remote lockouts and having to flip shock levers all the time, this will certainly be appealing.

The downside is that the suspension isn’t as supple over smaller rubble and at slower speeds. Along with the stiff chassis and carbon wheels, more of those vibrations are transmitted to the rider. As such, careful consideration with tyre pressure is needed to maximise grip and comfort.

Because there is more support however, the Fuel EX gives your feet a stronger platform to push off of, with greater feedback during high-load scenarios. Indeed the harder and faster you push, the better the Fuel EX responds. In that sense, it’s less of a comfy cruiser like its predecessors, and more of a mid-travel bruiser that loves to ride hard and fast.

Component highs & lows

As a complete bike, the Trek Fuel EX is a solid package that puts the emphasis on capability over light weight.

The Bontrager SE5 tyres are a good example, coming in at 1,100g each on our workshop scales. They roll reasonably well given their weight and size, and we’ve found them to provide consistent grip on rocky, hard-packed soil, which will suit most Aussie trail riders. The tread is a little shallow though, and the compound isn’t the softest, which sees them struggling to latch on when the conditions are wet and loose. We’d prefer something a little stickier and toothier up front, like a Maxxis Minion DHR II with 3C MaxxGrip rubber.

While the carbon Bontrager Line Pro rims are quite stiff, they have proven to be plenty tough. We’ve tested five of these wheelsets across various bikes over the past few years and we’ve not encountered a single issue. The y also come with a two-year crash replacement guarantee, which is great insurance given the hell that you can put this bike through. Furthermore, the frame itself comes with a lifetime warranty for the original owner.

There’s still plenty of real-world protection though, including a generous two-piece armour plate that bolts to the underside of the downtube. There’s also a metal chain-suck guard behind the chainring, and a full-coverage chainstay protector. Along with the fully guided internal cable routing, the Fuel EX is an impressively quiet and rattle-free bike on the trail. Well, except for the rear thru-axle lever, which I removed after the first ride.

Otherwise the finishing details are all sound. The adoption of a bigger 34.9mm seat tube diameter is welcome, as it accommodates a stiffer and stronger dropper post, particularly for the larger sizes. Mechanics will be happy to see a threaded BB shell, and we’re fans of the downtube storage. The trap door has none of the play that we encountered on the last Fuel EX we tested, with a tight fit and a nice lever action.

It’s certainly a high quality chassis, and many riders are likely to appreciate the in-built versatility. We’re looking forward to trying out the adjustable head angle once the aftermarket cups become available, and we’d also be keen to try out the Fuel EX with a coil shock. Setting it up as a mullet will be more straightforward, especially as you only need to buy an air spring to extend the Fox 36 up to 160mm of travel.

Trek Fuel EX vs Specialized Stumpjumper

Alongside the Trek Fuel EX, the Specialized Stumpjumper is one of the most popular and well-known trail bikes in this category. In terms of travel and the overall build, the Fuel EX sits right in between the regular Stumpjumper and the Stumpjumper EVO. However, it’s the regular Stumpy that I’ve been spending the most time on lately, both in its stock configuration and with a burlier mullet setup .

Compared to the Fuel EX, the Stumpjumper has a touch less travel with a 140mm fork and 130mm at the rear. It also uses a simpler suspension layout, with the carbon models employing a flex-stay design. Combined with its slimmer tube profiles, the carbon Stumpjumper frame is very light. Specialized claims it weighs just 2.28kg including the shock, which is over a kilo lighter than a carbon Fuel EX.

This theme extends to the Stumpjumper’s build kit, with Specialized electing for the skinnier Fox 34 over the 36. Along with an in-line shock, lighter brakes, wheels and tyres, there’s a considerable difference in the overall bike weight. For example, the Stumpjumper Pro we tested weighed 12.84kg.

While the geometry is pretty similar between the two bikes, the Specialized Stumpjumper rides much lighter on the trail compared to the Trek Fuel EX. It offers more comfort, with its lithe chassis and smooth suspension performance providing better compliance over rough terrain. It’s quite sporty and sprightly, though its active suspension design does need taming on the climbs by making use of the rear shock’s compression lever.

In comparison, the Fuel EX is more naturally efficient. It’s also more planted at speed, with its sturdy chassis and supportive suspension providing better big-hit capability. It feels more like a short travel enduro bike, which will suit heavier and harder riders.

Both bikes will handle a longer fork and can be set up as a mullet, though Specialized makes a specific link for the Stumpjumper to maintain the stock geometry. There is greater versatility in the Fuel EX chassis, with the option to adjust the head angle and fit a coil shock.

As for value, the Fuel EX offers a more appealing spec package. A Stumpjumper Expert sells for $9,800 AUD and comes with a Fox 34 GRIP2 fork, SRAM G2 brakes, an X01 drivetrain, alloy wheels and handlebars. In comparison, an equivalent Fuel EX 9.8 XT sells for $800 AUD less. It gets a simpler GRIP damper for its Fox 36 fork, though it does feature a piggyback shock, a Shimano XT groupset, a carbon one-piece RSL cockpit and carbon wheels with that 2-year crash replacement guarantee.

Flow’s Verdict

For many trail riders, the Trek Fuel EX 2023 is likely to tick just about every box on your new bike wish list. It’s as up to date as it gets, featuring loads of adjustability, internal storage and a nuanced approach to its size-specific geometry. Along with the increased travel and muscly frame, it offers greater stability and big-hit control over its predecessor, while still being a fun and involving bike to ride on modern flow trails.

It is a bit of a chonker though, so those who are looking for a lightweight and speedy trail bike may be better served by the latest Top Fuel .

The stiff chassis and supportive suspension also mean the Fuel EX tends to transmit more feedback, making it less comfortable to ride over rocky terrain. We’d be curious to try out a lighter shock tune to see how much of a difference that would make to the overall ride quality, but in its stock form the Fuel EX isn’t as plush as competitors like the Giant Trance X and Specialized Stumpjumper .

It is impressively efficient though, and the stable suspension gives you a load of support when you’re really giving it the beans on the descents. In this sense, the Fuel EX is closer in feel and performance to an enduro bike. You’ll still want to look towards the Slash if you’re serious about racing, but outside of the tape the Fuel EX will handle just about everything a modern trail centre or bikepark could throw at it. And for those who really want to up the limits, the adaptable chassis can easily be configured for some pretty aggressive riding.

Indeed for those who are chasing maximum capability without going to a big, spongy enduro bike, the Fuel EX is a mighty appealing option.

You’ll still want to look towards the Slash if you’re serious about racing, but outside of the tape the Fuel EX will handle just about everything a modern trail centre or bikepark could throw at it.

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• Trek Fuel EX 9 2005
• Crosscountry

Bike summary

Bike components.

ZR 9000 w/OCLV Carbon seat and chain stays

Rear Derailleur

Shimano Deore XT

Front Derailleur

Shift levers.

Shimano Deore XT 11-34, 9 speed

Shimano XT 44/32/22

Bottom Bracket

BSA, 73mm, threaded

Shimano 520, clipless

Bontrager Race Lite Disc tubeless

Bontrager ACX, tubeless ready, 26x2.2"

Shimano Deore XT, hydraulic disc

Bontrager Race Lite, 31.8

Bontrager Race X Lite, carbon, 31.8, 650x40

Alloy aheadset, semi-cartridge, sealed

Bontrager Race Lite

Bontrager Race X Lite, carbon

Bike geometry

About this model.

Fuel EX 9 is part of the Trek Fuel model. 277 bikes variations carry this model name so far. You can get a glimpse at all models from 2005 , by clicking on this link .

When you go for a ride, don’t forget to put your helmet on. Moreover, ride with traffic, not against it. This will help you stay visible to drivers and also makes it easier for them to see you.

Average price for Crosscountry bikes

Our math shows that the average cost of a dependable Crosscountry bike is 1905 $ . However, even if your budget is less than the average, you might still be able to get a top-quality Crosscountry bike. To make sure you don’t pay a higher amount than normal for your bike, always do some components analysis and read reviews.

Overview of components

Wheels size.

The Fuel EX 9 2005 bike is equipped with 26″ aluminum wheels when leaving the factory. Being a little smaller, these wheels will fit both small and tall riders. However, they provide less traction than 29″ wheels do.

When you want to stop the bike in time, the brakes are vital. The Fuel EX 9 has Hydraulic Disc brakes. With Hydraulic Disc brakes, you’ll be able to stop on a dime, even in wet or icy conditions. To sum up, your safety is in good hands.

Trek Fuel models from 2025

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Handy tools

Tools to help you even more.

• Fuel EX 5 Gen 6

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Field Test: Trek Fuel EX - Evolution Underlined

Cool Features