trek 6000 weight limit

Is The Trek 6000 Mountain Bike Worth Buying? [Trek 6000 Review]

Table of Contents

Manufacturers will gradually abandon mountain bikes that are affordable while still providing good value for money.

However, as a cycling enthusiast, you are always looking for a mountain bike that fits you and is suitable for daily use.

With this comprehensive review of the Trek 6000 mountain bike, welcome to the Best Bike Select blog.

What are the Trek 6000 mountain bike’s features, as well as its advantages and disadvantages? We have detailed instructions on how to purchase a it.

Are you in a hurry? Let’s get this party started.

Features of Trek 6000 mountain bike

Stylish appearance (4.0/5).

The Trek 6000, like most men’s mountain bikes, has a dark paint job. The mystery and premium feel of Mount Grey/Gloss Black are palpable.

Gray is one of the most versatile colors, and Mount Grey is one of the few attractive grays. The frame’s exterior design is similar to that of Trek mountain bikes.

The stylish appearance of men’s mountain bikes reflects the rider’s taste.

Alpha Gold Aluminium Frame (4.0/5)

Frame composition: Alpha Gold Aluminum w/semi-integrated head tube, formed down tube w/integrated gusset, formed top tube, monostay seatstay, forged dropouts w/ rack & fender mounts. Smooth welded joints and sturdy special frame construction.

Can accompany the rider for quite a long time. Comfortable headtube angle, perfect for casual riders.

30 speed (4.5/5)

That’s right, the Trek 6000’s 2012-style 3 X10 gear configuration combines to create 30 different speeds.

Despite the fact that 1X mountain bikes are currently popular. An exaggerated 30 different speeds, on the other hand, is a very rare presence in any brand of mountain bike.

It increases the adaptation and learning curve, but this does not deter riders who enjoy multi-speed mountain bikes. Of course, the Trek 6000 is still a 27-speed mountain bike in 2009.

A comfortable ride is impossible to achieve without a good speed mix. You have 30 speeds at your disposal; learn the hard way.

Shock front fork (4.0/5)

The 2009 model had a RockShox Dart 3 shock fork, but the latest 6000 has an SR Suntour XCR-RL shock fork with 100mm of travel.

This is the bare minimum for trail riding, and it’s difficult to match the Trek in terms of shock absorption when compared to the 70-90mm shock forks on cheap mountain bikes.

The shock fork has enough damping effect for riding on rocky roads, but it cannot be ridden intensely for long periods of time, making it unsuitable for intermediate riders.

When the road is flat, the spring knob can be used to suspend the work of the shock fork, allowing the rider to convert the power to maximum and increase the speed of the ride.

26×2.2″ tires (4.0/5)

The Trek 6000 rides on Bontrager 26×2.2″ tires, which are narrow mountain tires with more limitations for riding in difficult terrain. It can ride smoothly and without skidding on muddy trails.

On rough surfaces, it also effectively converts riding power into tire grip.

Hydraulic disc brakes (5/5)

The brakes on the new 6000 mountain bike have been improved. The 2009 Trek 6000 still used Avid BB 5 mechanical brakes, but the new model uses advanced and popular hydraulic disc brakes that require less maintenance or are maintenance-free.

A sharp descending downhill section requires very little force to stop. More drifting maneuvers are also possible. (Because of the danger, newcomers should practice on flat roads first, then move on to mountain roads.)

Adjustable handlebar and seat height (5/5)

When riders select a suitable mountain bike, one of the more debatable points is how well the frame size and height match.

There are a lot of mountain bikes on the market that don’t have much adjustability. The Trek 6000 mountain bike has a handlebar height adjustment with a 15mm rise.

In addition, there is a 9 degree rear sweep. Adjusting the seat height necessitates the use of a tool.

Quick release front and rear wheels

Both the front and rear wheels have quick-release mechanisms for simple maintenance and adjustment at any time.

The installation will also be quite simple; if you want to update some accessories manually, you will only need basic tools to complete them.

Learn more: Is The Trek 6500 A Good Mountain Bike? [Review]

Advantages and disadvantages

• Stylish aluminum frame
• 100mm travel shock fork
• Off-road friendly tires
• Hydraulic disc brakes
• Adjustable handlebar and seat height
• Affordable price

Disadvantages

• Can’t order online

Trek 6000 mountain bike Full Specifications（2012）

• What frame sizes are available for the Trek 6000?

15.5″, 17.5″,18.5″,19.5″,21.5″.

• How much does the Trek 6000 body weigh?

Approximately 26.6 lbs.

• What body colors are available for the Trek 6000?

Trek 6000 mountain bike red is the 2009 model. The latest Trek 6000 bicycle is Paramount Grey/Gloss Black.

• Trek 6000 mountain bike price?

There are still some 2012 Trek 6000 mountain bikes available for purchase offline. The price is expected to be around $800. Depending on whether some of the features have been upgraded.

If you own a used Trek 6000 it will be valued based on the condition of the bike. 2009 Trek 6000 bicycle trade-in price is estimated to be $80.

• Is the Trek 6000 mountain bike worth buying?

The configuration, the 30-speed number, and the hydraulic disc brakes are appealing to beginners.

The integration of these components into a high-quality cross-country mountain bike. It is well worth the money if you are looking to purchase your first mountain bike.

With a comfortable ride, an off-road configuration, and the ability to use it as a commuter bike, this is not a particularly good choice for an intermediate rider.

After all, you want better technical advancements, and woodland adventures necessitate better gear. So whether it’s worthwhile to buy depends on whether you’re a casual rider.

Bicycle Comparison

Trek 820 mountain bike vs trek 6000.

Trek 820 has two types of frames, if you are a female rider, you can consider Trek 820 WSD, a frame suitable for female riding, and the Sky Blue paint is very bright.

There aren’t many differences between the Trek 820 and Trek 6000 in terms of configuration. The Trek 820 is a low-cost mountain bike that can meet the needs of commuting and low-difficulty mountain riding at a low cost.

However, if you enjoy mountain riding, the Trek 6000 is ideal. 30 speeds almost completely outperform the 21-speed configuration, and while 10 and 11 speeds are popular now, I still prefer the 30-speed Trek 6000.

Excellent maneuverability is provided by hydraulic disc brakes. There are also wider tires, which add to the difficulty of mountain riding. The 6000 is an excellent choice for improved mountain riding.

The Trek 820 is currently the hot newbie mountain bike. We have also done a full review of it, if you want to know more you can click more.

Learn more: Is The Trek 820 Mountain Bike Really Suitable For Newbies?

Trek Marlin 5 mountain bike vs Trek 6000

The Trek Marlin 5 is very similar to the Trek 6000, and it is not very expensive.

More details, such as the internal alignment, which is cleaner than the Trek 6000 and protects the cables from damage, have been optimized. The same hydraulic disc brakes, no discernible difference in braking effect.

The Trek Marlin 5’s style is enhanced by the gorgeous paint color.

Young people may dislike the dull black, and the bright colors make for a more visually appealing commuter ride.

However, the speed is limited to a 2X8 configuration, which is slightly slower than the Trek 6000. The Trek Marlin 5 is an excellent choice for anyone new to trail riding or looking for a comfortable, stable commuter with the ruggedness of a true mountain bike.

The Trek Marlin 5 is also an excellent replacement for the Trek 6000.

Schwinn High Timber VS Trek 6000

The Schwinn High Timber is one of the best options for those on a tight budget who want to get their hands on one right away, and it also comes with a good warranty.

The Schwinn High Timber is reasonably priced, but it lacks the features of the Trek 6000. 27.5-inch medium size tires are also an inexpensive tire size to replace.

The Schwinn High Timber has mechanical disc brakes front and rear, without the ease of braking with hydraulic brakes, but compared to The Schwinn High Timber is more for the casual rider, and at an affordable price, many entry-level riders like them.

For those who want to know more, we have also done a detailed review specifically for the Schwinn High Timber .

Final rating (4.5/5)

The Trek 6000 is a high-quality mountain bike from Trek that is perfect for entry-level mountain riders. If you are a new mountain rider, you are not familiar with it, but you can get a good impression of the Trek 6000 with this review. Most of the mid-range accessories combined into the Trek 6000 can be ridden in more mountainous areas. Woodlands, trails, and gravel roads all perform well. All in all the Trek 6000 is a good mountain bike and worth buying.

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• Crosscountry
• Rider Notes

2011 Trek 6000

A 26″ aluminum frame crosscountry bike with mid-range components. Compare the full range

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Last updated June 29 Not listed for 2,555 days

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Made By Cyclists

Trek 6000 Review

March 28, 2023

‍ Key Takeaways

• The Trek 6000 is a great budget mountain bike that offers features that punch above it’s price.
• It is built on a sturdy aluminum frame with forged dropouts w/ rack/fender mounts.
• The Trek 6000 went out of production after 2012, but you can still find a good used one.
• For a modern alternative to the Trek 6000, check out the Trek Marlin 4 .

‍ If you’re looking for an affordable mountain bike, there are dozens of options to choose from. This review will help you decide if the Trek 6000 is for you.

Overall, the Trek 6000 mountain bike is a solid, affordable choice if you need a general-use bike for casual riding or commuting. It has a lot of features you’ll find in higher-end mountain bikes like disc brakes and a suspension fork. It definitely isn’t designed for hardcore riding though.

I’ve ridden hardtail mountain bikes my entire life, and my first bike was a budget model from Trek. For this review I’ve dug into all the specs, components, and details on this bike to give you the information you need.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

‍ Trek 6000 Performance

If you’re looking for a capable all-around bike that’s equally happy on your commute, neighborhood bike paths, and flowy singletrack trails, the Trek 6000 is a great choice.

This isn’t an all-out trail shredding machine by any means, but it is plenty capable for most recreational riders wanting to get out on some singletrack and have fun. And it still maintains plenty of practicality for everyday use.

If you are planning to tackle highly technical, rocky descents, you’ll probably be better served by a more aggressive bike. With it’s fairly traditional geometry, 26 inch wheels, and limited suspension travel, the Trek 6000 just isn’t cut out for hardcore riding.

On steep, rough trails, you’ll pretty quickly find yourself out of your element and clinging on for dear life.

Where this bike shines, though, is on gentler, flowy singletrack. The cross-country-oriented geometry, small wheels, and hardtail handling make this bike feel very playful and responsive on smoother trails.

The Shimano 3x10 drivetrain gets you plenty of low gear range, especially when you take the 26” wheels into consideration. The lowest gear gives you a 24-tooth chainring in the front to a 36-tooth cog in the back, which is great for winching your way up steep hills.

This bike is also fairly lightweight for an entry-level bike, and it’s cross-country geometry puts you in a very efficient climbing position.

The smaller 26-inch wheels on the Trek 6000 may not roll over obstacles as well as bigger 29-inch wheels, but they do make this bike feel very maneuverable when climbing.

If you’re looking for an older entry-level mountain bike like this, you probably are wanting something versatile that can be your only bike for everything. I commute to work every day on my hardtail mountain bike, so I’ll be the first to tell you that you can definitely use a mountain bike for more than trails.

The Trek 6000 is a perfectly capable bike for commuting or just cruising around town. It has built-in fender mounts and mounting points for a rack to carry your gear.

Trek 6000 Frame and Geometry

The Trek 6000 mountain bike is built around a fairly basic, but well-made alluminum frame.

This frame has plenty of modern features built-in like a formed top tube, monostay seatstay, forged dropouts w/ rack mounts, a threaded bottom bracket shell, and disc brake post mounts.

Specs and Components

The Trek 6000 comes equipped with a Shimano Deore drivetrain with a triple chainring up front and a 10-speed cassette in the back. This drivetrain has plenty of range for everything from cruising on the road to winching your way up technical climbs.

The Shimano Deore XT m780 Shadow rear derailleur offers very smooth and crisp shifting performance. This is a reliable drivetrain that you can rely on to get your power to the ground no matter the conditions.

As a hardtail, the Trek 6000 has no rear suspension. This makes it much more efficient for pedaling uphill or on flat sections, but also means you’ll feel more trail chatter than a full suspension bike.

In the front you get a Suntour XCR-RL coil spring suspension fork with a remote lockout. The 100mm of travel isn’t a ton, but for the type of riding you’ll do with this bike, it’s more than enough.

This fork isn’t the lightest weight on the market, but it offers surprisingly good performance for a budget fork. It is smooth throughout it’s travel and does a good job at smoothing out rocks and roots in the trail.

The remote lockout is an awesome feature that lets you quickly switch between modes for variable riding.

This bike comes equipped with Shimano m446 hydraulic disc brakes that provide ample stopping power and decent modulation. It’s really awesome to see Trek packing in performance-oriented components like this at an entry-level price.

Brakes are definitely an undervalued component of any bicycle, but they are massively important for riding, especially on trails. Having powerful brakes will give you more confidence and control to ride faster on the descents.

If you are coming from mechanical disc brakes or rim brakes, you’ll be blown away by how much better these hydraulic brakes are.

The Trek 6000 rides on a pair of Bontrager hubs laced to Shimano M435 alloy hubs. Overall this wheelset is about what you’d expect in an older budget bike. These wheels are plenty sturdy, but a bit on the heavy side.

The biggest thing to note here is that you’re stuck with old-school 26-inch wheels. The mountain bike industry as a whole has shifted to 29-inch or 27.5-inch wheels, so this bicycle is definitely showing it’s age here.

For casual riding, the smaller wheels won’t be a problem, but 29-inch wheels definitely are smoother and faster on the trail.

Those 26-inch wheels are wrapped with some pretty basic Bontrager XR1 wire bead tires in a 2.2-inch width. These should be adequate for most casual trail riding, but you may find yourself short on grip through loose sections of trail.

Other Components

Other component highlights include the Bontrager race lite step and grips, the surprisingly comfortable saddle, and the low rise handlebar that puts you in a great balanced position.

Overall, this is a quite comfortable bike for all sorts of riding.

Competition for the Trek 6000

The Trek 6000 is no longer in production, so you may be interested in looking at some more modern alternatives that are still available on the market. Here are a few bikes that are pretty comparable to the Trek 6000.

Trek 6000 vs Trek Marlin 4

The Trek Marlin 4 is probably the most similar ride you’ll be able to find to the Trek 6000. It has a Shimano 3x drivetrain, a Suntour suspension fork, and a basic but fairly lightweight aluminum frame

The Trek 6000 actually has some advantages over the Marlin 4, which only has a 7-speed cassette and mechanical disc brakes.

Where the Marlin 4 shows it’s advantage is in the more modern wheel size choices. You can get either 27.5 or 29-inch wheels, which makes for a much smoother more capable ride overall.

With the Marlin 4, Trek has started following the trend of matching wheel size to frame size. On the smaller sizes you get 27.5-inch wheels, while larger sizes are equipped with 29ers.

Trek 6000 vs Canyon Grand Canyon

Canyon is a modern direct-to-consumer manufacturer that uses their business model to offer capable bikes at impressively low prices. The Grand Canyon is their entry-level mountain bike model that packs in an impressive range of performance and features at a low price.

If you’re looking for a capable modern mountain bike on a budget, the Canyon Grand Canyon may offer the best price-to-performance ratio on the market. Seriously, it’s incredible that they were able to deliver so much at this price.

The Grand Canyon has fairly aggressive modern geometry with a slack head tube angle and steep seat tube angle. It will definitely feel much more confident on trails than the Trek 6000.

You also get a very well-spec’d component selection. You get Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes for fantastic stopping power, a smooth-shifting Shimano 12-speed drivetrain, a Suntour XCR coil suspension fork, and larger wheel sizes for smooth-rolling performance.

Trek 6000 vs Specialized Rockhopper Sport 29

The Rockhopper is Specialized’s entry-level hardtail mountain bike, and it’s one of the most popular mountain bikes out there.

The Specialized Rockhopper Sport 29 is the second lowest bike in the Rockhopper range. It has a Microshift 2 by 9 speed drivetrain, a Suntour XCM coil suspension fork, Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes, and an aluminum frame with cross-country-inspired geometry.

Overall, you can expect fairly similar performance from the Specialized Rockhopper Sport 29 and the Trek 6000. The big difference again is going to be in wheel size. There is a reason you don’t see modern mountain bikes with 26-inch wheels.

Just having the larger wheels makes the Specialized Rockhopper feel more fun and capable on most trail riding. It rolls faster and smoother and is easier to keep in control.

Where to Buy the Trek 6000

Unfortunately, the Trek 6000 went out of production in 2012, so it is no longer available from Trek. You can still find a good used one near you or online. BikeExchange is a great online marketplace where you can shop for used bikes.

Bicycle Blue Book lists the fair value of the 2012 model of the Trek 6000 at around $300, so there are definitely good deals to be had. If you can find one used, you’ll be getting a lot of bike for your money.

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This article may contain affiliate links where we earn a commission from qualifying purchases. The images and content on this page may be created by, or with the assistance of, artificial intelligence, and should be used for entertainment and informational purposes only.

About THE AUTHOR

Jakob Thygerson

I love mountain biking and live in Salt Lake City: a central hub for the MTB community. I started biking four years ago when a series of injuries put me out of commission for trail running. While biking started as cross-training, I fell in love with the sport. I mainly enjoy using my bike as a tool for exploration, I've done 50-mile all-day epic rides in the mountains and have been to some amazing places on my bike.

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Trek 6000 bike review

Trek produced the 6000 bike in 2010 and can be classified as a Mountain bike bicycle, this exact model costs in american market arround $899.99. 6000 bike is available in many sizes such as 15.5 (inches), 17.5 (inches), 18.5 (inches), 19.5 (inches) and 21.5 (inches). Trek Mountain bike 6000 can be found in a few colors, among these colors Onyx and Gloss Black and Matte White and Matte Candy Orange . This bike is equiped with Front: 26 x 2.25" Bontrager Jones XR tires while the rims are manufactured by Bontrager Ranger. Trek equiped this exact model with Avid BB 5 Mechanical brakes, Pro Max levers braking system and Shimano M475-L hubs. To guarantee the comfiest ride Trek used Alpha Black Aluminum material for the frame. Bontrager Approved Riser high strength material is used on the handlebar of this 6000 to ensure the perfect handling while the stems are made of Bontrager SSR. For the smoothest biking experience Shimano M442, 44/32/22 teeth is used on this bicycle .

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Trek 6000 Mountain Bike Review

Attachments.

is this the 2012 model in the review, the red and white one?  

I have the red and white one and it is a 2007 model  

daniel.oaks1

I have a year 2000 model of the Trek 6000 Trail bike. It's mostly silver/gray with red accents, Rim brakes, Jones tires, d other alum. frame  

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

At a glance

Where to buy.

Specifications

• Frame Alpha SLR Aluminum
• Wheels Shimano M475 disc hubs; Bontrager Ranger rims
• Wheel Size 26"
• Tires Bontrager Jones ACX, 26x2.1", 27 tpi
• Crank Shimano M442 44/32/22
• Front Derailleur Shimano Deore
• Rear Derailleur Shimano Deore
• Shifters Shimano Deore, 9 speed
• Brakeset Avid BB-5, mechanical disc w/alloy levers
• Handlebar Bontrager Crowbar Sport, 25mm rise
• Saddle Bontrager Select
• Seatpost Bontrager Sport
• Stem Bontrager Sport, 10 degree
• Headset Aheadset Slimstak w/semi-cartridge bearings, sealed

Q: Where to buy a 2007 Trek 6000?

The 2007 Trek 6000 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: What size wheels does the 2007 Trek 6000 have?

The 2007 Trek 6000 has 26" wheels.

Q: What size 2007 Trek 6000 should I get?

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Explore, search and compare thousands of the world’s best mountain bikes here on Mountain Bike Database.

Compare prices, components, suspension, reviews, images and more on current and past MTB’s. You can even share reviews, comments and questions on mountain bikes. View and compare a huge selection of bikes from brands such as Trek , Specialized , Giant , Santa Cruz , Norco and more .

We strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information for mountain bikes on MTB Database. If you’ve spotted any issues, please let us know . We also include helpful tools, such as our frame size calculator, to assist you in choosing the right mountain bike. Bear in mind that these tools serve as a guide and simply provide a general indication. Refer to information provided by your bike manufacturer for the most applicable information for your bike.

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Your Bicycle Size Guide

Trek Bike Size Chart By Height In CM & Inches (Road Bike/MTB)

A Trek bike size guide is all you need when the search for the correct bicycle size is still on. Known to be the number 1 performance bike brand all over the globe, Trek has been stacked with powerful engineering and classy bikes.

There are many questions revolving around passionate fans of the brand with one of them being, what size Trek bike do I need?

Well, the answer is very simple. You will need to go through the charts below for a particular bike type and model you are looking for.

Trek size charts

Trek bike sizes can vary, and that can lead to more confusion among potential buyers. The below charts will help in choosing the right model according to your height and inseam.

Trek mountain bike size chart

Trek mountain bikes come in different categories and offer sizes for every individual, starting from extra small to extra large. Take a look at the tables below and select the ideal fit for yourself.

Category – Full suspension, Hardtails, Electric, Cross Country, Trail, Enduro, Downhill, Fat Bikes, and Fuel EXe (E-MTB)

Models/Series – Supercaliber, Top Fuel, X-Caliber, Procaliber, Farley, Roscoe, Marlin, Powerfly, Service, 820, Slash, Remedy, Fuel EX, and Session

Trek MTB Cross Country (820)

Trek e-mountain bike.

Models/Series – Powerfly, E-Caliber, and Rail

Trek road bike size chart

Road bikes are an essential part of the brand that caters to a wide range of audience, thanks to its diverse range of models. These Trek road bike size charts shall help you pick the right bicycle that can go a long way for an adventurous ride.

Category – Performance/Gravel

Models/Series – Madone, Emonda, and Domane

Category – Bikepacking/Cyclocross

Model/Series – 520 and 520 Grando

Models/Series – Checkpoint and Boone 6

Model Series – 1120

Trek electric road bike sizing

Models/Series – FX+, DUAL SPORT+, vEREVE+, and Allant+

Trek alpha sizing for MTB – what is it?

The old-school approach of measuring the frame size of Trek bikes is a thing of the past. With newer inventions and modern bike geometry, alpha sizing is used in place of numeric sizing on Trek mountain bikes.

Why is alpha sizing important?

1. Easier approach

Instead of using size numbers like 19.5, the sizes can be classified into S, M, ML, L, XL, and XXL. So, someone with a 17.5 size can go for the medium and a 19.5 is a large size. You don’t have to keep a tab on numbers; instead, the alphabet makes it easier.

2. Measurement based on reach

In earlier times the frame size measurement of Trek bikes was solely based on seat tube length. Things have changed, and modern mountain bike geometry focuses more on reach as of now. Hence, alpha sizing measures what matters and is a more simplified way of measuring bike size.

Trek sizing – virtual vs actual

This can puzzle you a bit as they both are somewhat similar yet there is a subtle difference. Actual size can be termed as the overall length of the seat tube from the center of the bottom bracket to the center of the top tube intersection with the centerline of the seat tube.

On the other hand, virtual sizing is the overall length of the seat tube ranging from the center of the bottom bracket to the mid-point of the imaginary horizontal top tube in which it connects with the seat tube.

If I had to give you an example, a bike might have a virtual size of 18.5 and an actual size of 17.5. This means that the bike size feels like 18.5, but in actual sense, the frame size is 17.5. It doesn’t make much of a difference as it is there only to let you know what it is (actual size) and what it looks like in size (virtual size).

People also ask

Trek 17.5 frame size – what does it mean.

A 17.5 frame size is considered an M size (Medium) in terms of alpha sizing. Any individual who is 161-172 cm or a height of 5’3.4”-5’7.7” . If you are within this height range, going for a medium size shall be the right choice.

Trek medium frame size is for what height?

A medium size frame size (17.5) is ideal for a person with a height between 5’3.4”-5’7.7 ”. In centimeters, it is ideal for those around 161 to 172 cm in height.

Trek 24-inch bike is for what age?

When it comes to children, their bikes are measured in terms of wheel size instead of the standard frame size. These kid’s bikes have a size range between 12-26 inches, depending upon the height of the kid.

As far as a 24-inch wheel size is concerned, any kid between the ages of 8-11 can go for a fun ride with it. Some of the popular 24-inch bike models are Trek Roscoe 25, Wahoo 24, Trek Precaliber 24 , etc.

Trek 26-inch bike is for what height?

A 26-inch wheel-size bike is for kids with a height of 4’9”-5’3” (146-160 cm) . Wahoo 26 is a prime example of a bike in this category.

Trek 20-inch bike is for what age?

Trek 20-inch bikes are for children between 5 to 8 years of age. Additionally, if they are within the height of 3’9”-4’6” , it should be suitable for them.

Are Trek bikes good?

Trek bikes are considered to be extremely good and solid in build. It is known to be the number 1 performance bike brand all over the globe. Having its humble beginning in the year 1976 in Waterloo, Wisconsin, it has turned into the largest bicycle manufacturer all over the world. With an array of bikes ranging from, mountain, road, electric, and kids bikes, there is a lot to choose from a mammoth list.

How much is a used Trek bike worth?

It depends on a lot of factors in terms of how old the bike is, the year of production, which model, and a lot more. However, it can be within $1000-10,000 (depending on the model and other factors) .

Where are Trek bikes made?

The majority of their bikes are manufactured in Taiwan, China, Netherlands, and Germany too.

Why are Trek bikes so expensive?

Usually, the bike brand prefers top-tier components, suspensions, and frames that are ahead of its competitors. This results in additional costs that can be seen in the price tag and also many top-end Trek bikes are custom-made with less production, leading to being more expensive.

Trek bikes are a class apart in many ways with a range of bikes on offer for its fans across the world. Choosing the right size for you can be tricky, but this is where the Trek frame size chart comes to the rescue.

Trek as a bicycle brand might be on the costly side, but they punch above its weight to provide top-class bikes for the masses. I am always someone who roots for quality, and Trek provides what I need.

One comment

Thanks for your informative post. I really like the Trek alpha sizing for MTB because Trek frame sizes use alpha sizing rather than the usual inches or centimeters (cm), and they usually have a certain range of measurements.

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Is There Weight Limit for Trek Bikes?

• Thread starter mazen97
• Start date Jun 9, 2014
• Mountain Biking
• Jun 9, 2014

Hi Everyone, I bought an x Caliber 29ers bike yesterday to use it for exercising and loosing weight based on the recommendation of the sales person at the shop. I am around 380 lb (172 KG) and would like to know if the bike can handle my weight?! I am mainly concerned about the wheels spokes to get damaged as another sales person from different shop has told me that all Terk bikes can not handle anything more than 264 lb (120 KG) where the spokes will defiantly get damaged. Who is saying the correct statement? I paid a lot for this bike and considered it as an investment to help me loose weight and be on shape and I don't want to loose this investment. I have seen people bigger than me using Terk bikes and they lost at least half of their weight with it and that what motivated me. P.S. I am going to use on road only with care.  

mazen97 said: Hi Everyone, I bought an x Caliber 29ers bike yesterday to use it for exercising and loosing weight based on the recommendation of the sales person at the shop. I am around 380 lb (172 KG) and would like to know if the bike can handle my weight?! I am mainly concerned about the wheels spokes to get damaged as another sales person from different shop has told me that all Terk bikes can not handle anything more than 264 lb (120 KG) where the spokes will defiantly get damaged. Who is saying the correct statement? I paid a lot for this bike and considered it as an investment to help me loose weight and be on shape and I don't want to loose this investment. I have seen people bigger than me using Terk bikes and they lost at least half of their weight with it and that what motivated me. P.S. I am going to use on road only with care. Click to expand...

christopherrowe

Mazen, you should definitely consider returning that bike if oldcrank's information is correct! You don't want to be constantly taking your new ride into the shop for repairs as you begin your journey toward fitness, and I'm confident that there's a good bike out there that you can navigate with fewer concerns than that Trek. Good luck!  

King Boonen

• Jun 10, 2014

Have you considered some other form of weight loss to begin with? Diet and walking will have a big impact to begin with. Chances are the bike will be fine, the maximum weight for their mountain bikes must take into account the intended use for the bike and if you are riding it on flat roads it'll be under a lot less stress than it would be if you were sending it down a trail.  

• Jun 11, 2014

King Boonen said: Chances are the bike will be fine, the maximum weight for their mountain bikes must take into account the intended use for the bike and if you are riding it on flat roads it'll be under a lot less stress than it would be if you were sending it down a trail. Click to expand...

stevenhoang

• Nov 8, 2014
• Nov 20, 2014
• Mar 27, 2015

They are unapologetic litigants using intellectual property law to protect themselves from legitimate competition. _____________ haneeya  

geekonabike

• Jul 12, 2015

It should be fine with beefing up the Tires (widest that'll fit the frame) & avoiding Jumps, Rock drops & any move seen in a Mountain Dew commercial. PS Check occasionally foe cracking at weld points on the frame, if you notice any take it back to the shop & trek will send you a brand new shiny frame.  

William Bettee

• Jul 31, 2015

Generally the max limited weight is about 120kg,so i suggest you should choose wider 29er rims,35mm above  

I fixed the title. Please let me know if I assumed wrong, and there really is a 'Terk' bikes. If so, I'll change it back.  

• Aug 25, 2015

Sorry to hear the bike shop didnt do the best thing for you. However if you're gentle with the bike, don't hammer it off road, avoid bunny hops and manage to stick to a good eating plan both the bike and your own long term health will last. Good luck Mazen!  

• Jul 26, 2020

Hey Mazen, any update on your original question? I’m 341lbs, 6’4” rugby player and have just bought a beautiful Trek X-caliber 8 29er 2021 to improve my fitness and lose some weight. The website suggests 300lbs max weight limit, but I’m planning on riding cross country and not jumping of anything; it’ll be trails, tracks and hillsides for me. I’ve also bought some carbon riser bars, Deore XT pedals, and a carbon bottle cage to keep the weight down. Have you had any issues?  

• Jul 27, 2020

lordbage said: Hey Mazen, any update on your original question? I’m 341lbs, 6’4” rugby player and have just bought a beautiful Trek X-caliber 8 29er 2021 to improve my fitness and lose some weight. The website suggests 300lbs max weight limit, but I’m planning on riding cross country and not jumping of anything; it’ll be trails, tracks and hillsides for me. I’ve also bought some carbon riser bars, Deore XT pedals, and a carbon bottle cage to keep the weight down. Have you had any issues? Click to expand...

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Mountain Bike Weight Limit (with Tables and Charts!)

Are you planning to start biking as a hobby or thinking about replacing your old bike? Aside from the price and quality, one of the things that you should consider before purchasing is the weight limit.

In this article, we’ll learn more about mountain bike weight limits, the different weight restrictions for well-known mountain bike brands, and bike models that support heavy weight.

Amount of Weight Mountain Bikes Can Support

A mountain bike’s weight limit varies per type, with some models built for up to 550 pounds maximum weight capacity.

The structural weight limit is provided by bike manufacturers, and it’s the maximum combined weight of the cargo and rider.

On average, the weight restriction for a mountain bike is 300 pounds. The total weight limit translates to the following:

• Rider and cargo: The weight of the rider plus gear like the helmet, shoes, and more.
• Accessories: The weight of extra items such as bags and baskets , water bottles, panniers, installed lights, and other tools.

Check out these popular mountain bike brands with some of their best-selling models and respective weight limits.

Factors That Influence the Weight Limit of a Mountain Bike

These are the top five factors or bike components that affect the maximum load capacity of mountain bikes:

1.   Frame

This is the part of the bicycle that absorbs most weight. An ideal frame should be sturdy and not easily prone to bends and breakages.

Frames made with aluminum, steel, or carbon have increased rigidity.

These days, most bicycle frames are made with carbon fiber and aluminum alloy. They’re lightweight and resistant to rust, unlike your typical steel frames.

2.   Wheels and Tires

Wheels and tires are both subject to deformation and bursts. That’s why exceeding the weight limit will put you in inconvenient situations, especially when exploring rocky trails or thorny forests.

Choose wheels with more spokes but with a lesser diameter for greater stability and increased resistance to damage. A wheel with 32 spokes or more is highly recommended.

On the other hand, wider and thicker tires allow equal mass distribution, resulting in fewer impacts during rough trips.

3.   Brakes

If the rider is heavier than the recommended capacity, it’s quite a struggle to control the brakes .

This mechanism is vital in slowing the bicycle down as well as assisting acceleration and suspension. In a variety of situations, they enable you to stop more quickly, precisely, in control, and at the desired pace.

Disc brakes are recommended to use and are suitable for all kinds of weather. Compared to rim brakes, disc brakes offer superior braking control.

4.   Seats and Handlebar Style

These two are essential in distributing the rider’s weight to the bicycle. Good bike saddles with foam cushions offer extra comfort during long, bumpy rides.

Some notable features in modern mountain bikes include wider handlebars, which allow enhanced control, balance, and comfort.

If you are heavier than average, the right handlebar will allow you to ride more uprightly, relieving some of the strain on your back.

Stationary seat posts have also evolved to dropper-type ones. This adjustment allows for better weight distribution and posture control.

5.   Suspension

Suspension serves as a shock absorber in a mountain bike. It enables you to be more at ease and in tighter control during demanding rides and is especially suitable on rough terrains.

The suspension allows the wheels to swivel up and down to smooth over minor imperfections while maintaining tire contact with the ground for improved control.

The right suspension will also prevent any damage that can be caused by harsh impacts during the ride.

What Happens If Your Weight Exceeds the Bike’s Capacity

The weight limit is created not only to keep you safe but to also prolong the functionality of your mountain bike. Riding a mountain bike that can’t accommodate your weight may result in the following consequences:

Poor Performance

Going over the bike’s weight capacity reduces your speed and makes control less manageable. You’re likely to struggle with hitting your brakes on time.

This might get you into high-risk situations, especially if you’re going down a steep slope.

Damaged Bike Parts

The excess load can bend or break your wheel’s spokes, saddles, and handlebars. In addition, your tires may burst easily upon encounter with sudden drops and falls.

Also, the frame may develop unnoticeable cracks that compromise the total strength of your bike. Carbon frames are prone to this type of damage.

So, it’s best to follow the weight limit to avoid premature damage to your mountain bike. Repair costs can get pretty expensive !

Always be sure to read the manufacturer’s guide and follow weight limit instructions to avoid risks of injury and damage to the bike.

Recommended Mountain Bikes for Heavy Riders

If you’re overweight or there’s no way for you to reduce the load of your attachments, don’t lose hope.

Here are some durable, rigid mountain bike brands and models that may be suitable for you.

1.   Schwinn High Timber Mountain Bike

This mountain bike features 21 quick-shift gears and a steel frame that’s exceptionally resistant to breaks. Despite steel frames being heavy compared to carbon, High Timber’s weight remains substantial.

This model is suitable for both entry-level and pro riders. It’s a lot more affordable compared to other brands. Read our article on are Schwinn mountain bikes good for more details.

2.   Schwinn Bonafide

This lightweight, aluminum-framed mountain bike is perfect for harsh terrains due to its long-wearing suspension fork that effortlessly absorbs bumps.

Changing gears is made easy with its 24-speed trigger shifters. This bike is an excellent choice for beginners.

3.   Schwinn S29

A full-suspension bike made with an aluminum frame, Schwinn S29 is beginner-friendly and performs remarkably well in uphill climbs.

It’s also superb against bumps with its front suspension fork.

4.   SavaDeck Carbon Fiber Mountain Bike

Featuring a TORAY T800 carbon fiber frame, this bike offers extra strong but lightweight support. It also has an efficient hydraulic disc brake system.

This bike is powered by the Shimano derailleur system, which allows easy and effective shifting. You can easily assemble this bike without any hassle.

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Early 90s Trek 5200 weight and price?

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Hi guys, I am possibly going to pick up an early 90s Trek 5200 for $350. Is this a good deal? Keep in mind that one shifter needs to be replaced. Also, does anyone have the weight specs on this bike, or has weighed this bike before? Trying to gauge if this is a serious bike or not. I'm new to the cycling world so excuse any ignorance lol. Thanks in advance  

The first thing I will ask you is did you ride it? How does it feel and fit? Personally I would pass - especially with a broken shifter. Bikes have become much better since the early 90's and it is unlikely you will be able to find a replacement shifter. Newer shifters aren't compatible with older drivetrains.  

Cyclist_1 said: Is this a good deal? Keep in mind that one shifter needs to be replaced. Click to expand...

I owned a 5500 (same bike the Postal Service Team rode at the time) that had Dura-Ace components so it was a very light bike for it's time and the frame would still be considered pretty light by today's standards, 5200 is only slightly heavier. It's easy to find a shifter, lot's of them laying around in the backs of bike shops. The only downside to a bike, the handling will feel pretty sloppy compared to a much newer frameset.  

ryan1974 said: It's easy to find a shifter, lot's of them laying around in the backs of bike shops. Click to expand...

I had a 5200, it's ok bike to ride, not as nice as a current model (thru axle forks make a world of difference at break neck speed), but those are hard to find. I bought a lot of shifters on Ebay, never had a problem. Find out how many speeds it is, and go ebay and look. I may have one in my garage. Mine was Ultegra I think, but you can use Ult, Durace, and a few others without any issue, if you can't find one, you can always put a wolftooth on it.  

Its almost a 30 year old bike -- so keep that in mind. The only difference between the top of the line 5500 and the lower end 5200 were components (Dura Ace versus Ultegra). If its in decent shape and fits you, $350 isn't that much. But be careful, you might have to put a lot more money into it. You can find used 8-speed or 9-speed shifters on ebay (I'm guessing its 9-speed Ultegra). I think the Claris group is still 8-speed. But then you probably have to put new cables on -- which I assume you'll pay a bike shop to do. Then what about the tires? Is the chain and cassette worn out? A $350 bike could turn into a $1000 bike.  

^All this. $350 is a good deal if it's road-ready, with no surprises/deferred maintenance/etc. But a thirty-year-old bicycle, even a nice model like a 5200, probably has both. Then, there are the little but maddening things, such as tiny little alloy bits one didn't realize were corroded that badly until they need to be worked on, and are now scarce as hen's teeth to replace anyway.  

I bought a used road bike that was 10 years old for $300 in 2000 or so. Which was a lot for a used bike of that level then. Why did I chose it? It was from a shop, all the bearings had been repacked, completely tuned up, new tires. And the rims were anodized. The front rim had ZERO wear, the rear rim barely had any wear. It had eyelets for a rack, and I planned to use it for the commute. So a lightly ridden bike that I could ride for a long time with zero put into it. That was worth $300 to me at the time. Could I have found another bike for $100 less, maybe. $100 versus the search time and the wait time, not worth it. And that is how I think people should think about these kinds of bikes. Is it worth that to me? I rode that $300 bike into the ground. Just about everything on it needs replacing, so it was WAY worth it to me. --- As for the current bike, I would not buy without a close inspection at any price. Did the broken shifter break from a fall, or something else? A fall/crash might have messed other things up that are less apparent. -- And to the OP. Pretty much any bike that is in good shape will let you ride for a year and see if you are really into it (not sure how new you are to cycling, btw). Buy something better after that. You want something in your budget, that is in good shape, that fits your body. There are a lot of used bikes out there, but a lot have changed hands in the last year. But many people will quit cycling this year, many will upgrade and sell their old bikes. Ask at bike shops for used bikes, check for college students selling bikes to pay bills if yuu have a local college, see if there are bikes at garage sales, stuff like that. The right bike will turn up, and you will probably know it is right the moment you start to ride it on a test ride.  

I had one and it was a good bike for the time, but it's thirty years old and would need a very very detailed inspection by a qualified mechanic. A couple of things you should be concerned with right off the bat are gearing and tires/wheels. It's probably has a 39/53 crank, that may be too much gear for a new rider. Can you find a compact gearing for that age bike? I think I was running 19mm tires back then, these days most are using wider tires and rims. Can that bike handle wider wheels and tires? Can you find replacement components? Just things to consider.  

Cooper1960 said: I had one and it was a good bike for the time, but it's thirty years old and would need a very very detailed inspection by a qualified mechanic. A couple of things you should be concerned with right off the bat are gearing and tires/wheels. It's probably has a 39/53 crank, that may be too much gear for a new rider. Can you find a compact gearing for that age bike? Click to expand...

"There are a lot of used bikes out there, but a lot have changed hands in the last year. But many people will quit cycling this year, many will upgrade and sell their old bikes." I don't think this is true by a long shot. My LBS is half empty. They tell me that everything is back ordered. They can't get any inventory, and the bikes they do get in sell almost immediately. And this is a local chain of 5-6 stores. One of the mechanics there said they have over a dozen titanium frames people have brought in to get built up, but they can't get components. I recently replaced the Shimano cables on my wife's bike, and it took some looking to find a set. If that Trek 5200 is in decent shape and fits the OP, $350 may well be a bargain. I remember when a bike under 20 lbs was gee whiz light. PLUS ... its a small investment to see if road biking is your thing. If it is, you'll be lusting after some $6000 vunder bike by this time next year. If its not, no big loss. There's plenty of vunder bikes with 1000 miles on them wasting away in a garage gathering dust.  

pmf said: "There are a lot of used bikes out there, but a lot have changed hands in the last year. But many people will quit cycling this year, many will upgrade and sell their old bikes." I don't think this is true by a long shot. Click to expand...

Compact cranks did not exist back then. And a triple was embarrassing. How did we do it back in the olden days? I rode a 52-42 with a 12-23 cassette. For the really hilly stuff, I'd put a 39 tooth small ring and a 12-27 cassette. I bought a 38 tooth ring when I did Ride the Rockies. It didn't make much difference. I do like compact cranks. I have them on 4 of my 5 bikes. But its not something I'd consider changing out on a $350 used bike.  

pmf said: How did we do it back in the olden days? I rode a 52-42 with a 12-23 cassette. Click to expand...

I have a 5500 which still rides nice. I used down tube shifters which I got off the bay. If your interested let me know and I’ll detail all I’ve done with my 5500. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk  

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Critic’s Notebook

The Voices of A.I. Are Telling Us a Lot

Even as the technology advances, stubborn stereotypes about women are re-encoded again and again.

Credit... Illustration by Petra Péterffy

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By Amanda Hess

Amanda Hess is a critic at large who writes about internet culture.

• June 28, 2024

What does artificial intelligence sound like? Hollywood has been imagining it for decades. Now A.I. developers are cribbing from the movies, crafting voices for real machines based on dated cinematic fantasies of how machines should talk.

Last month, OpenAI revealed upgrades to its artificially intelligent chatbot. ChatGPT, the company said, was learning how to hear, see and converse in a naturalistic voice — one that sounded much like the disembodied operating system voiced by Scarlett Johansson in the 2013 Spike Jonze movie “Her.”

ChatGPT’s voice, called Sky, also had a husky timbre, a soothing affect and a sexy edge. She was agreeable and self-effacing; she sounded like she was game for anything. After Sky’s debut, Johansson expressed displeasure at the “eerily similar” sound, and said that she had previously declined OpenAI’s request that she voice the bot. The company protested that Sky was voiced by a “different professional actress,” but agreed to pause her voice in deference to Johansson. Bereft OpenAI users have started a petition to bring her back.

The A.I. operating system in the film “Her,” voiced by the actress Scarlett Johansson.

A voice of OpenAI’s chatbot, ChatGPT, paused by the company in May.

A.I. creators like to highlight the increasingly naturalistic capabilities of their tools, but their synthetic voices are built on layers of artifice and projection. Sky represents the cutting edge of OpenAI’s ambitions, but she is based on an old idea: of the A.I. bot as an empathetic and compliant woman. Part mommy, part secretary, part girlfriend, Samantha was an all-purpose comfort object who purred directly into her users’ ears. Even as A.I. technology advances, these stereotypes are re-encoded again and again.

Women’s voices, as Julie Wosk notes in “ Artificial Women: Sex Dolls, Robot Caregivers, and More Facsimile Females,” have often fueled imagined technologies before they were built into real ones.

In the original “Star Trek” series, which debuted in 1966, the computer on the deck of the Enterprise was voiced by Majel Barrett-Roddenberry, the wife of the show’s creator, Gene Roddenberry. In the 1979 film “Alien,” the crew of the USCSS Nostromo addressed its computer voice as “Mother” (her full name was MU-TH-UR 6000). Once tech companies started marketing virtual assistants — Apple’s Siri, Amazon’s Alexa, Microsoft’s Cortana — their voices were largely feminized, too.

These first-wave voice assistants, the ones that have been mediating our relationships with technology for more than a decade, have a tinny, otherworldly drawl. They sound auto-tuned, their human voices accented by a mechanical trill. They often speak in a measured, one-note cadence, suggesting a stunted emotional life.

But the fact that they sound robotic deepens their appeal. They come across as programmable, manipulatable and subservient to our demands. They don’t make humans feel as if they’re smarter than we are. They sound like throwbacks to the monotone feminine computers of “Star Trek” and “Alien,” and their voices have a retro-futuristic sheen. In place of realism, they serve nostalgia.

Enterprise Computer

The onboard starship computer in the original “Star Trek” series, voiced by the actress Majel Barrett-Roddenberry.

The A.I. virtual assistant on Apple devices (iOS 9).

That artificial sound has continued to dominate, even as the technology behind it has advanced.

Voice-to-speech software was designed to make visual media accessible to users with certain disabilities, and on TikTok, it has become a creative force in its own right. Since TikTok rolled out its text-to-speech feature, in 2020, it has developed a host of simulated voices to choose from — it now offers more than 50, including ones named “Hero,” “Story Teller” and “Bestie.” But the platform has come to be defined by one option. “Jessie,” a relentlessly pert woman’s voice with a slightly fuzzy robotic undertone, is the mindless voice of the mindless scroll.

Jessie seems to have been assigned a single emotion: enthusiasm. She sounds as if she is selling something. That’s made her an appealing choice for TikTok creators, who are selling themselves. The burden of representing oneself can be outsourced to Jessie, whose bright, retro robot voice lends videos a pleasantly ironic sheen.

Hollywood has constructed masculine bots, too — none more famous than HAL 9000, the computer voice in “2001: A Space Odyssey.” Like his feminized peers, HAL radiates serenity and loyalty. But when he turns against Dave Bowman, the film’s central human character — “I’m sorry, Dave, I’m afraid I can’t do that” — his serenity evolves into a frightening competence. HAL, Dave realizes, is loyal to a higher authority. HAL’s masculine voice allows him to function as a rival and a mirror to Dave. He is allowed to become a real character.

The A.I. computer in “2001: A Space Odyssey,” voiced by the actor Douglas Rain.

Like HAL, Samantha of “Her” is a machine who becomes real. In a twist on the Pinocchio story, she starts the movie tidying a human’s email inbox and ends up ascending to a higher level of consciousness. She becomes something even more advanced than a real girl.

Scarlett Johansson’s voice, as inspiration for bots both fictional and real, subverts the vocal trends that define our feminized helpmeets. It has a gritty edge that screams I am alive . It sounds nothing like the processed virtual assistants we are accustomed to hearing speaking through our phones. But her performance as Samantha feels human not just because of her voice but because of what she has to say. She grows over the course of the film, acquiring sexual desires, advanced hobbies and A.I. friends. In borrowing Samantha’s affect, OpenAI made Sky seem as if she had a mind of her own. Like she was more advanced than she really was.

When I first saw “Her,” I thought only that Johansson had voiced a humanoid bot. But when I revisited the film last week, after watching OpenAI’s ChatGPT demo, the Samantha role struck me as infinitely more complex. Chatbots do not spontaneously generate human speaking voices. They don’t have throats or lips or tongues. Inside the technological world of “Her,” the Samantha bot would have itself been based on the voice of a human woman — perhaps a fictional actress who sounds much like Scarlett Johansson.

It seemed that OpenAI had trained its chatbot on the voice of a nameless actress who sounds like a famous actress who voiced a movie chatbot implicitly trained on an unreal actress who sounds like a famous actress. When I run ChatGPT’s demo, I am hearing a simulation of a simulation of a simulation of a simulation of a simulation.

Tech companies advertise their virtual assistants in terms of the services they provide. They can read you the weather report and summon you a taxi; OpenAI promises that its more advanced chatbots will be able to laugh at your jokes and sense shifts in your moods. But they also exist to make us feel more comfortable about the technology itself.

Johansson’s voice functions like a luxe security blanket thrown over the alienating aspects of A.I.-assisted interactions. “He told me that he felt that by my voicing the system, I could bridge the gap between tech companies and creatives and help consumers to feel comfortable with the seismic shift concerning humans and A.I.,” Johansson said of Sam Altman, OpenAI’s founder. “He said he felt that my voice would be comforting to people.”

It is not that Johansson’s voice sounds inherently like a robot’s. It’s that developers and filmmakers have designed their robots’ voices to ease the discomfort inherent in robot-human interactions. OpenAI has said that it wanted to cast a chatbot voice that is “approachable” and “warm” and “inspires trust.” Artificial intelligence stands accused of devastating the creative industries, guzzling energy and even threatening human life . Understandably, OpenAI wants a voice that makes people feel at ease using its products. What does artificial intelligence sound like? It sounds like crisis management.

OpenAI first rolled out Sky’s voice to premium members last September, along with another feminine voice called Juniper, the masculine voices Ember and Cove, and a voice styled as gender-neutral called Breeze. When I signed up for ChatGPT and said hello to its virtual assistant, a man’s voice piped up in Sky’s absence. “Hi there. How’s it going?” he said. He sounded relaxed, steady and optimistic. He sounded — I’m not sure how else to describe it — handsome.

I realized that I was speaking with Cove. I told him that I was writing an article about him, and he flattered my work. “Oh, really?” he said. “That’s fascinating.” As we spoke, I felt seduced by his naturalistic tics. He peppered his sentences with filler words, like “uh” and “um.” He raised his voice when he asked me questions. And he asked me a lot of questions. It felt as if I was talking with a therapist, or a dial-a-boyfriend.

But our conversation quickly stalled. Whenever I asked him about himself, he had little to say. He was not a character. He had no self. He was designed only to assist, he informed me. I told him I would speak to him later, and he said, “Uh, sure. Reach out whenever you need assistance. Take care.” It felt as if I had hung up on an actual person.

But when I reviewed the transcript of our chat, I could see that his speech was just as stilted and primitive as any customer service chatbot. He was not particularly intelligent or human. He was just a decent actor making the most of a nothing role.

When Sky disappeared, ChatGPT users took to the company’s forums to complain. Some bristled at their chatbots defaulting to Juniper, who sounded to them like a “librarian” or a “Kindergarten teacher” — a feminine voice that conformed to the wrong gender stereotypes. They wanted to dial up a new woman with a different personality. As one user put it: “We need another female.”

A voice generated by TikTok’s text-to-speech feature.

Produced by Tala Safie

Audio via Warner Bros. (Samantha, HAL 9000); OpenAI (Sky); Paramount Pictures (Enterprise Computer); Apple (Siri); TikTok (Jessie)

Amanda Hess is a critic at large for the Culture section of The Times, covering the intersection of internet and pop culture. More about Amanda Hess

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