The perfect balance of fitness and fun FX is the most popular hybrid bike in the world for good reason. Go for a cruise, get a workout in, pull your kids, ride to work, run errands—this comfortable, reliable bike truly does it all.

Why you’ll love FX FX is a fast, fun, comfortable, and agile bike for however you like to ride. Plus, it's easy to customize your FX to better fit your needs with our wide range of on-bike accessories.

The ultimate multi-talented ride

FX is comfortable and versatile enough for wherever you roam—whether you’re commuting on city streets, cruising over crushed gravel roads, or hitting your local bike path.

Stop on a dime

Disc brakes offer more stopping power so you can ride with confidence and stop with ease.

Make it yours Customize your FX to suit your style and your needs by adding a rack, fenders, lights, a kickstand, and more.

  • Accessorize your FX

Additional hybrid options

Verve is a recreational hybrid bike built for comfortable everyday adventures. It's perfect for cruising roads and paths in style, getting outside more, and enjoying your time in the saddle.

Dual Sport is an adventure-loving hybrid bike that rides both road and trail—and rides them well. From path to pavement and dirt to doubletrack, this bike delivers a versatile, stable, comfort-first experience wherever you roam.

Trek FX 2 Disc Equipped review: Unspectacular but effective

The trek fx 2 disc is a versatile all-rounder with surprising levels of comfort and stability.

The Trek FX 2 Disc leans against a graffiti'd container

Cyclingnews Verdict

Built around a frame with a superb balance between responsiveness and comfort, the Trek FX 2 Disc Equipped will tackle any task required of a hybrid bike in an effective, if unspectacular, manner

The frame has a great balance between responsiveness and comfort

Equipped for night riding, bikepacking or commuting

Can carry a decent amount of weight

Stable ride for long distances

Would need a drivetrain upgrade to become a serious fitness bike

On the heavy side for a rigid frame

You can trust Cyclingnews Our experts spend countless hours testing cycling tech and will always share honest, unbiased advice to help you choose. Find out more about how we test.

A hybrid bike can and will mean different things to different people. But sometimes it is simply the bike that fills the gaps, that doesn't do any one thing but in fact does it all. Purists may scoff and say to compromise is to ruin the essence of life: if you are not something, you are nothing. But Trek has offered a repost: if you can't be something, be everything.

That certainly appears to be the aim of the Trek FX 2 Disc Equipped. It's the jack-of-all-trades, odd-jobber of a bike. It comes, as the name suggests, fully loaded with a pannier rack, lights, mudguards and even a kickstand but what elevates it to a place among the best budget hybrid bikes available today is that, as part of Trek's fitness range, all that versatility does not come at the cost of all rideability. 

And that's a crucial element. Just because a bike has more practical functions – going to the shops, commuting, family bike rides etc – doesn't mean it can't be fun, have its own personality and leave us looking forward to running that next errand.

Trek's FX range of bikes is quite extensive, starting at the £500.00/$599.99 FX 1 and going all the way to the full-carbon £3,050.00/$2,799.99 FX Sport 6. The FX 2 is available with a step-through frame – in both the Equipped and standard versions – and has been updated for 2023, with the main difference from the 2021 model being a move from a 3x8 to a 2x9 gearing system.

The FX 2 Disc Equipped is priced at £740.00 - it's not currently available in the USA - which is £90 more than the FX 2 Disc standard (£650.00/$799.99) which foregoes the rack, lights, mudguards and kickstand. Although it does come in a couple of extra colour options.

Design and specification

Recognising alloy frames' bad reputation for comfort compared to steel and carbon, Trek set itself a goal to "build more compliant frames that retain the acceleration and affordability that have always made aluminium popular" – and it is the fruit of that labour that the FX 2 Disc Equipped is designed around. 

The Alpha Gold Aluminium frame, while not the lightest, does offer a great balance between responsiveness and comfort. It is also strong: according to Trek, the FX 2 Disc can take weights of up to 136kg (for bike, rider, and cargo combined), which fares well compared to other hybrid bikes in the same class such as the Merida Speeder 200 (120kg) and Scott Sub Cross 50 (128kg). The pannier rack that comes with it is also very solid and suitable for carrying loads up to 25kg despite weighing less than 600g itself.

My size large test bike as a whole weighed in at 13.4kg with pedals. The rack, lights, mudguards, and kickstand account for just over a kilogram of that weight but it's still a touch on the heavy side for a fixed-frame hybrid in this price range. 

While the focus is on the practicality of the frame, it is by no means ugly – especially when stripped of all the accessories – with internal cable routing, a gentle curve to the top tube that is reminiscent of the Specialized Sirrus (one of the classic beauties of the hybrid world) and the choice of a striking Viper Red or classy Lithium grey colourway. The geometry is pretty much what you would expect from a hybrid, with perhaps a slightly longer chainstay length adding to its stability. It is not as upright as, say, the Sirrus but similar to the Cannondale Quick 3 – which is a good bike to use as a comparison in general.

Like the Quick 3, the Trek FX 2 comes with a Shimano Acera/Altus 2x9 drivetrain and has an integrated mounting system in the stem, as well as the ability to track cadence and other metrics using an integrated wireless sensor. 

Trek's Blendr stem system is designed for easy installation of computers, lights and other accessories to your cockpit. It does, rather annoyingly, require an additional base to be purchased (which plugs into the stem) and then a further mount for the specific accessory (which attaches to the base) but that does allow for a wide range of options to suit all needs.  

The DuoTrap S is a Bluetooth/ANT+ sensor that integrates into the chainstay and wirelessly transmits to a smartphone or computer to track cadence and other metrics. Again, it requires a separate purchase, but the frame is set up for it to be attached without the need for zip wires or other ungainly fasteners.   

Trek has made an effort to include ergonomic grips on the FX 2 Disc Equipped, although they are a little on the basic side, especially compared to those on the more expensive models in the FX range. 

The lights, however, are far more impressive, particularly the AXA Greenline 35 headlight. USB-charging, it has a wide beam, is also designed to be visible from the side and is discreetly mounted on the top of the fork, which avoids cluttering the cockpit.

The Tektro HD-R280 hydraulic disc brakes are pretty standard now for mid-range hybrids. My test bike came with Bontrager H2 Comp 700x32c tyres but with the mudguards fitted there is room for up to 35mm and Bontrager H2 Hard-Case Light 700x35c tyres are listed as an option on the spec sheet. Without the mudguards, Trek says the frame can accommodate tyres up to 38mm in width.

Performance

Trek deserves credit here for really delivering on its aim of a responsive-yet-compliant frame. It's one thing coming up with the jargon, but another bringing it to fruition at a genuinely affordable price. While the FX 2 Disc Equipped might come across as a bit of a plodder on paper, in reality, it has a surprising amount of responsiveness. Loaded up with a carry pack on top of the pannier rack, I was happy overtaking other cyclists on reasonably fast country roads, knowing I had the acceleration to get past and back across to the side of the road in ample time.

Yes, it's no speed demon – it doesn't have the playfulness of the Boardman URB 8.9 or the lightweight climbing ability of the Merida Speeder 200, two bikes at a similar price point – but where it completely outscores both is in comfort and stability, even with a rack, mudguards, light, kickstand all bolted on. 

Interestingly enough, I took it for a ride with all those added extras stripped off and, while significantly lighter – making an obvious difference on climbs – there was not a huge noticeable change in its performance on the flat. 

My test bike came with a slightly-different-to-advertised Microshift Marvo front derailleur instead of Acera T3000, which is roughly equivalent, and I had no issues with it. However, as a whole, I did find the drivetrain to be under-par for a fitness bike. It's perfectly functional and will get you pretty much wherever you need to go, but it is a little clunky and I noted that the next bike up in the FX range, the FX 3 Disc Equipped , comes with a 10-speed Shimano Deore groupset which, in my experience, is a huge step up in performance. 

In particular, I could not get to grips with the drastic change when switching chainrings on the 46/30 chainset. If I didn't downshift on the 4th sprocket or earlier I found myself spinning out – and this is perhaps a rare example of the FX 2 Disc Equipped coming a little unstuck wanting to satisfy in all areas. That 16-tooth difference in the chainrings (the same difference as a 50/34 compact road chainset, for example) means the bike has the range to get up steep hills while also having enough gas on the flats, but the user experience is compromised a little in doing so. 

Where it doesn't compromise, however, is in its comfort and handling, whether I took it on potholed roads, bike paths, or light gravel it felt so balanced and stable. I was even happy taking it on the grassy, rutted track of a nearby nature reserve – and this was all with the standard 32 mm tyres it came with. Even when there was a little rattling, you could tell it was coming from the rack, fenders, and lights rather than the frame. 

Taking it out at night in light rain did little to change my faith in its dependability and the lights were superb, particularly the wide-beam fork-mounted headlamp – a marked improvement from the usual glorified-torch-on-the-handlebars setup I usually use. Neither front nor rear light offered an intermittent option but, having been driven to distraction on long night rides behind blinking bulbs in the past, that was no great loss to me.

I took the Trek FX 2 Disc Equipped on rides around the countryside, trips to the shops, rides with the kids, rides at night, in the rain, for exercise, for errands and more, and on every occasion, it delivered. It is solid and dependable without feeling clunky or cumbersome. It's not sexy but it's not ugly. It's not overly fun but it's no chore to ride.

It will do what it needs to do in almost every situation you will need a hybrid bike for. Not necessarily to the highest level, but to a high enough level that you won't feel like you are missing out. 

Yes, I did find the Altus/Acera groupset to be restrictive in terms of performance but drivetrains can be upgraded, along with wheels and grips and seatposts etc. Having a top frame is such a great building block. I would stress, however, this frame still has a ceiling to what it can do as a fitness bike, even if it were upgraded in all those areas. It is built for sturdiness as much as anything else and the fact that its performance was similar with and without the rack, fenders, kickstand et al is quite telling. I'm not going to use it to take on the Brecon Beacons in the Dragon Ride but I might choose it over a more expensive performance-oriented bike for a long-distance overnight ride such as the Dunwich Dynamo , where comfort, stability and safety are the overriding priorities.

Tech specs: Trek FX 2 Disc Equipped

  • Price Trek FX2 Disc Equipped : £740.00 / $N/A
  • Price Trek FX2 Disc : £650.00 / $799.99 
  • Sizes : S, M, L, XL
  • Weight : 13.4kg (actual, size L, with pedals)
  • Frame : Alpha Gold Aluminium
  • Fork : FX Alloy
  • Shifters : Shimano Altus M2010, 9-speed
  • Front derailleur : Microshift Marvo
  • Rear derailleur : Shimano Altus M2000
  • Crankset : 46/30
  • Cassette : Shimano HG200, 11-36, 9-speed
  • Brakes : Tektro HD-R280 hydraulic disc
  • Wheels : Bontrager Connection
  • Tyres : Bontrager H2 Comp, 700x32c
  • Saddle : Bontrager Sport
  • Seatpost : Bontrager Alloy, 12mm offset
  • Stem : Bontrager Comp, Blendr Compatible, 7-degree, 90mm length
  • Handlebars : Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, 15mm rise
  • Extras : Rack, Eurofender Snello mudguards, Spanninga SOLO rear light and AXA Greenline 35 headlight, Bontrager Satellite grips, kickstand

trek bike fx

Thank you for reading 5 articles in the past 30 days*

Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read any 5 articles for free in each 30-day period, this automatically resets

After your trial you will be billed £4.99 $7.99 €5.99 per month, cancel anytime. Or sign up for one year for just £49 $79 €59

trek bike fx

Try your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

Ben has been a sports journalist for 16 years, covering everything from park football to the Olympic Games. As well as cycling, his passions include podcasts, tennis and speaking enough Italian to get by on his snowboarding trips to the Dolomites. A DIY rider who is almost as happy in the toolbox as he is in the saddle, he is still trying to emulate the feelings he experienced as a nine-year-old on his first Peugeot racer – he couldn’t fathom the down-tube friction shifters then and he’s still wrestling with groupsets now. When he isn’t making a beeline for the nearest Chiltern hill, he is probably tinkering or teaching his kids how to clean a bike properly. He rides a heavily modified 1980 Peugeot PVN10 Super Competition (steel is real) when the road is smooth and dry, and a BMC Alpenchallenge when it’s not.

Mike's Bikes launches 'mega sale' with discounts on everything sitewide

Best cycling trousers of 2024: Six options so you can ride to work and not get changed

POC Aspire cycling glasses review: A sturdy and stylish modern classic

Most Popular

trek bike fx

CyclistsHub.com logo 500px with transparent background.

Subscribe to my YouTube channel for video reviews.

Trek FX 1 vs. 2 vs. 3 and FX Sport 4 vs. 5 vs. 6 Compared: Which One to Choose?

Profile picture of Petr Minarik - the founder of cyclistshub.com

CyclistsHub is supported by its readers. We may receive a commission if you buy products using our links.

In this article, I’ll help you navigate the Trek FX hybrid bike family by comparing the FX 1 , 2, 3, and FX Sport 4, 5, and 6 .

You’ll learn about the differences between each model, who they are best suited for, and more. 

Plus, I’ll tell you which model gives you the best value for your money to help make your decision easier.

KEY TAKEAWAY

Trek FX and FX Sport are ideal hybrid bikes for commuting and maintaining your fitness, thanks to their sporty geometry. They also have smooth tires, so you will be fast on paved roads. However, they can handle light terrain as well. On the other hand, they are still slower and heavier than the Trek Madone or Émonda and less versatile than the Trek Dual Sport .

Trek FX 1 vs. 2 vs. 3 and FX Sport 4 vs. 5 vs. 6

The following table summarizes the main differences between all FXs and FXs Sport, Trek’s hybrid bike families .

FX (Sport) Pros & Cons Summary

I summarized the pros & cons of the FX (Sport) series below.

FX (Sport) Pros

  • Relaxed geometry for a comfortable ride
  • Suitable for a wide range of terrains
  • Aluminum or carbon frame
  • Availability in multiple sizes and colors
  • Pedals included
  • Compatible with racks, kickstands, etc.
  • Compatible with DuoTrap S sensor
  • Partially internal cable routing
  • Lifetime warranty

FX (Sport) Cons

  • Some bikes have a narrow gear range
  • Some models don’t come with tubeless-ready wheels or tires
  • No suspension (can be a pro due to the lower weight)

Also available as a step-through

FX Main Features

Let me now explain the most important features of the Trek FX and FX Sport bikes and compare these two families.

Frame and Geometry

All FX bikes come with an aluminum frame , available in XS-XXL sizes , but with forks made of different materials – steel, aluminum, or carbon.

FX Sport bikes have a high-end carbon frame with a carbon fork , resulting in lower weight and better riding comfort due to carbon’s ability to absorb road vibrations.

Trek FX (top) vs. Trek FX Sport (bottom) comparison.

Their geometry also differs slightly. Despite the name suggesting a more performance-oriented geometry, the FX Sport is surprisingly more relaxed , allowing you to sit more upright.

The geometry of both FX families is relaxed enough for less flexible riders and those who prefer comfort over the speed that comes from a more aggressive, and therefore more aerodynamic, stance.

Trek FX vs. FX Sport geometry comparison using the bikeinsights.com tool. FX is more aggressive than FX Sport.

Finally, it is important to add that FX bikes are also available in a step-through version suitable for women. FX Sport bikes are not.

Wheels and Tires

The wheel size on FX bikes is the same as on most hybrid bikes – 700c – but with wider tires than those used on road bikes, ranging from 32 to 40mm. The tire clearance is up to 45mm.

The tires have a pattern to provide increased traction on light gravel or dirt roads but are not suitable for demanding terrain like mountain bike tires.

Trek FX Bontrager Connection wheel and H2 Comp tire detail.

Remember that some models have tubeless-ready wheels but don’t come with tubeless-ready tires , so you may need to swap them later if you want.

Also, the higher-end the bike, the better the wheels. For example, the Trek FX Sport 6 has carbon Bontrager wheels that are lighter, stiffer, and a bit faster than the aluminum ones.

While the FX family offers a wider range of gears thanks to 2X and 3X drivetrains, the FX Sport has a narrower gear range due to the 1X drivetrains.

1X drivetrains are popular because they are easy to maintain and shift and lighter than 2X or 3X groupsets.

However, their disadvantage is a smaller gear range. So, depending on the terrain you often want to ride, you may occasionally miss some gears. On the other hand, you don’t have to worry about cross-chaining.

Although the FX series offers entry-level models with rim brakes (which are also a bit cheaper), the industry’s pressure has pushed for disc brakes.

Disc brakes are more effective, especially in the rain, as they do not lose their braking power. The debate between supporters and opponents of disc and rim brakes seems endless.

Trek FX and FX Sport mechanical/hydraulic disc brakes.

All FX bikes, except for one model, use hydraulic disc brakes . Check out this article for the differences between mechanical and hydraulic disc brakes .

Since hybrid bikes often don’t require as much braking power as mountain bikes, you can rely on sufficient stopping power for all the used brakes.

Another difference between FX and FX Sport is cable routing . On Trek FX , it is partially integrated , while on FX Sport , it is almost completely integrated , including the area around the handlebars, simplifying and improving the overall appearance.

All FX and FX Sport bikes are compatible with the DuoTrap S sensor , sold separately, which measures your speed, distance, and more. You can pair it with a speedometer or bike computer.

Trek FX with DuoTrap S sensor (detail).

FX frames have mounts for kickstands and racks , making it easy to install these accessories. You can also leverage the Blendr stem to easily attach compatible accessories from the Trek/Bontrager ecosystem.

Lastly, most FX bikes come with slip-on grips , while all FX Sport models have lock-on grips that are easier to install and replace than slip-on grips. FX Sport bikes also use better IsoZone grips that are more comfortable and alleviate the pressure on your hands.

So, which bike should you choose between Trek FX and Trek FX Sport? And which bike from each family is the best?

If you’re on a tighter budget and looking for an affordable bike for commuting and leisure riding, then go for Trek FX. These bikes are mostly sufficient for beginners.

Trek FX Sport bikes are more expensive due to their carbon frames, which result in much lower weight. They resemble road bikes with flat handlebars and are suitable for those looking for a lightweight and comfortable hybrid bike. Just remember that their gear range is more limited.

I believe the FX 2 Disc provides the best value for the money from the FX family. First, you avoid an obsolete 3X drivetrain on the FX 1 Disc . Then, you get hydraulic disc brakes, significant weight reduction, and better components. While the price difference between the FX 2 and FX 3 is relatively large, the added value is not as significant.

The best bike from the Trek FX Sport family is the mid-range FX Sport 5 Disc, as it uses a simple 1X drivetrain and is much lighter than the FX Sport 4.

While the Trek FX Sport 6 is much lighter, mainly due to the carbon wheels, it is also much more expensive.

Trek FX FAQ

Trek FX bikes are designed for riders who seek a versatile bike that can handle a variety of terrains and riding styles, from commuting to fitness rides and from paved roads to light off-road. These hybrid bikes are comfortable and reliable and offer a balance between the speed of road bikes and the versatility of mountain bikes. With many models available, Trek FX and FX Sport bikes are suitable for riders of all levels, from beginners to experienced cyclists.

The main difference between Trek FX and Trek FX Sport is the frame. FX bikes have an aluminum frame with a fork made from different materials depending on the range. In contrast, FX Sport bikes have an aerodynamically shaped carbon frame that resembles modern road bikes. FX bikes offer a wider gear range but can be more complex when it comes to shifting. Most FX Sport bikes leverage 1X shifting for weight reduction and easier shifting. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly bike and don’t prioritize performance, you should consider buying a Trek FX. However, if you want a lightweight hybrid bike and don’t mind spending more money, then the Trek FX Sport is more suitable for you.

The Trek FX and Trek Verve bikes differ in their frame geometry. The Trek FX has a relaxed yet more aggressive geometry, making it great for maintaining fitness and riding longer distances. On the other hand, the Trek Verve is more suited for riding in the city. It has an upright riding position that gives you better visibility, particularly in traffic. Additionally, Verve bikes come with a suspension seatpost to increase your riding comfort. They also offer better maneuverability.

The Trek FX and Trek Verve bikes have different frame geometry, suspension, and tires. The Trek FX has a more relaxed geometry compared to the Dual Sport. Dual Sport bikes are similar to mountain bikes but not as extreme. They have front suspension with short travel and wide tires that make them better suited for off-road riding and rough terrain.

About The Author

Profile picture of Petr Minarik - the founder of cyclistshub.com

Petr Minarik

2 thoughts on “trek fx 1 vs. 2 vs. 3 and fx sport 4 vs. 5 vs. 6 compared: which one to choose”.

Profile picture of Petr Minarik - the founder of cyclistshub.com

Thanks for the article, I’m trying to decide on a new hybrid and I have my eye on an FX 3 Disc or FX Sport 4. Unfortunately at least one of your specs is inaccurate for both of these bikes – both have a 1×10 drivetrain, instead of a 2×10 which you have in the table, while you specifically call out the 2x and 3x drivetrains as a benefit of the FX series. I am hesitant about the more limited range but I do like the simplicity and weight savings, and it does seem to be where things are headed anyway.

Profile picture of Petr Minarik - the founder of cyclistshub.com

Hi Anne, Thanks for noticing that. I fixed the info. I would say that the gear range also depends on the area you live in. If you have a lot of hills and climbs there, a wider gear range might be more useful. But the simplicity of shifting can overweigh. I know many recreational riders who don’t use their entire gear range, so 1X groupsets should be enough for them. I hope this helps. 🙂 – Petr

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Start typing and press enter to search

Ride The City

TREK FX Review

Category: Hybrid Bikes

TREK FX

Trek dub the FX and FX Sport ranges as their ‘anywhere, anytime fitness bike’ as opposed to just being a commuting bike with a performance edge. Flat bars and a more relaxed, upright geometry point to its urban riding purpose but it would not look out of place on more characterful bike paths and longer, more varied rides.

As the name-change suggests, there is a dividing point in the range with the FX 1, FX 2 Disc, and FX 3 Disc more on the commuting side of the equation looking at their spec sheet. Even then, the difference between them is vast enough to make it worth serious consideration which is best for your needs.

At the top-end, however, those with the FX Sport moniker throw in Shimano’s mid-range road groupsets and a carbon frame. The subsequent range of gears, smooth shifting, and compliant ride is deserving of something sportier than just the commute. Performance levels are right at the top of what you would expect from a flat-barred bike; a mid-point for riders using two wheels for more than commuting but not yet ready for, or requiring, a fully-fledged road bike.

Starting with the entry-level FX range, the FX 1, FX 2 Disc and FX 3 Disc are all built around an Alpha Gold Aluminum frame. Alpha Aluminum is Trek’s innovative aluminum lay-up, which has been built to offer more compliance without reducing the stiffness-to-weight and affordability favored in alloy frames. Alpha Gold sits between Alpha Silver and Alpha Platinum, with the end result supposed to reduce fatigue over longer distances. Sleek welding keeps looks sharp too, particularly as all frames in the range boast internal cable routing.

The choice of forks varies as you climb the range though, with steel on the FX 1, alloy on the FX 2, and carbon thereafter, including the FX 3. If your target is predominantly commuting, carbon is unnecessary and the durability of the other two should take precedence. Carbon, however, improves the compliance through the front of the bike and serves up sharp handling and lightweight too.

On the FX Sport models, that carbon fork is paired with an Alpha Aluminum frame on the FX Sport 4 and an OCLV carbon frame on the FX Sport Carbon 4, FX Sport 5, and FX Sport 6. OCLV is Trek’s patented carbon lay-up process, which looks to improve the durability of its carbon frames. Other tech passed down from higher-end models includes the IsoSpeed decoupler. 

By allowing the seat tube to flex independently of the top tube, road buzz is smoothed significantly, without impacting on the bike’s rigidity and pedaling efficiency. Road racing legend Fabian Cancellara used IsoSpeed-equipped bikes to tackle the cobbles of Paris-Roubaix, so it should ramp comfort up to noticeable levels on anything the FX Sport is likely to tackle.

All frames in the range are DuoTrap compatible, allowing wireless integration with your bike computer or smartphone from a sensor in the chainstay. Trek have also looked to save time and maintenance with the 3S chain keeper. It is a very small touch, but a further testament to Trek’s attention to detail.

The groupsets clearly highlight the expected usage of each model, with the FX 1, FX 2, and FX 3 all wearing components from Shimano’s entry-level urban ranges. Shimano Altus, Shimano Tourney, and Shimano Acera are combined, with the FX 1 and FX 2 featuring triple cranksets for more gear options. The FX 1 uses rim brakes – though a disc version is available – and other bikes in the series come with hydraulic discs.

Step up to the FX Sport range, however, and the components step up too. Both the FX Sport 4 and FX Sport 5 wear Shimano Tiagra and the FX Sport 6 features Shimano 105. The exception to the rule is the FX Sport Carbon 4, with Shimano’s gravel-specific GRX group to highlight its off-road capability. It further reiterates Trek’s claim of an ‘anywhere, anytime’ bike.

Looking in more detail at the road groups, meanwhile, Shimano Tiagra has stepped up from its previous mark as a ‘slightly-better-than-entry-level’ group in the Shimano hierarchy. Both Tiagra and 105, much like Trek’s framesets, have profited from trickle-down technology and both offer superb value for money. That said, to get the most out of Shimano 105, its smooth shifting and range of gears, you want to be taking the Trek FX far beyond just the bike paths. Value for money is relative.

Buying Trek means Bontrager finishing kit, from the in-house component arm of the American giants. Bontrager wheels are standard fare across the Trek range and it is no different with the FX or the FX Sport. Three different wheelsets are used throughout the range. On the FX 1 and FX 2, it is Bontrager Connection hoops, on the FX 3, FX Sport 4 and FX Sport Carbon 4 you get Bontrager Tubeless Ready Disc wheels and on the FX Sport 5 and FX Sport 6 the Bontrager Affinity Discs.

It is standard fare, from the entry-level end of Bontrager’s vast range, and whether you feel the need to upgrade will center on your riding intentions. For the FX 1 and FX 2, the wheels are basic at best but you do get Bontrager’s H2 reflective hybrid tires with them. They include reflective sidewalls and are built to blend durability, smooth rolling, and grip.

Again, the Tubeless Ready Disc wheels are the basic version of a range which stretches as high as the elite-level Aeolus hoops. The FX 3 uses H2 Hard-Case Lite rubber, while the FX Sport 4 and FX Sport Carbon 4 use R1 Hard-Case Lite. As indicated by the name, the H2 is built with hybrid bikes in mind, while the R1 is more aimed at road riding. Both feature Hard-Case puncture protection for durability, however.

Finally, the FX Sport 5 and FX Sport 6 step things up a little, with the Bontrager Affinity Disc-Ready wheels and R1 and R2 Hard-Case Lite tires respectively. As with all bikes, however, upgrading the rolling stock will make a big difference to your ride. The FX Sport 5 and FX Sport 6 are built for more dedicated road riding, so if you can afford to shop higher up the Bontrager range it will add an extra level to your riding. Out of the box, the supplied rolling stock will do the job though – but nothing special.

Cycling made Simple.

Made By Cyclists

Trek Fx Sport 6 Review

February 23, 2023

Trek Fx Sport 6 Review
 | PedalChef

‍ Key Takeaways

  • The Trek FX Sport 6 is one of the highest performance hybrid bikes you can buy.
  • The lightweight carbon frame and wheels make this faster than many road bikes.
  • The upright flat bar riding position is more comfortable than aggressive drop bar road bikes.
  • Features like hidden fender mounts make this bike versatile and ready for any type of riding.
  • If you like going fast but don’t dig the roadie vibe, this bike gives performance without pretense.

This article may contain affiliate links where we earn a commission from qualifying purchases.

‍ There are limited options if you want a high-performance flat bar hybrid. This Trek FX Sport 6 review dives into the performance and specs of this fun bike.

The Trek FX Sport 6 is one of the lightest, fastest, and funest city bikes you can buy. The featherweight carbon frame, high-end components, and nimble handling make this a fantastic bike for serious fitness riders who prefer a flat handlebar setup.

I ride my bike to work every day and log thousands of miles each year. I love bikes that For this review I dug up all the details on the FX Sport 6 and compared it’s performance to other high-end fitness bikes so you can have all the information you need to decide whether to buy this bike.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

‍ Trek FX Sport 6 Performance

With this bike Trek promised to deliver the fastest fitness bike on the street, and the reality of this bike’s performance measures up pretty well. It is lightweight, fast, responsive, and fun.

It delivers a lot more than just speed though. The beauty of a bike like this is it’s ability to handle more than a road bike ever could. I’ve been surprised with the capability of the FX Sport 6 to handle gravel and flowy singletrack. It feels fun wherever you take it.

On pavement, this bike feels nimble and fast. It’s easy to get in a rhythm and lay out the power on long rides. In town, the upright position keeps you aware of what’s going on around you, and the flat bars give you great control for zipping through traffic.

When the pavement ends, the fun begins, as the saying goes. This is an awesome bike for exploring gravel back roads. The 40mm tires have small but functional knobs that give you grip when tarmac turns to dirt, and the gravel-specific drivetrain keeps your power where you want it when things get chattery.

This isn’t marketed as a mountain bike for singletrack riding, and that definitely isn’t it’s focus, but if you want one bike to do it all and have an itch to pedal your local trails, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the capability of the FX Sport 6.

Trek FX Sport 6 Frame and Geometry

The OCLV carbon frame on this bike is an incredible piece of engineering. This frame is stiff, durable, and incredibly lightweight. The entire weight for this bike comes in at a breezy 21 lbs. The steep seat tube angle puts you in a perfect position for cranking out the miles.

With flat mount disc brakes and thru axles, this frame is built to be reliable and future-proof so you can upgrade components at will. Though with the high-end build kit on this bike, it’s not likely you’ll feel the need to swap anything out.

Mounting points for bottle cages, fenders, and rear racks make the FX Sport 6 versatile and ready for anything. Whether you need water for long group rides, a rack for your bag while commuting, or fenders for wet-weather riding, this frame has you covered.

The rigid carbon fork is also very light and does a good job of muting road buzz.

Specs and Components

Coming in at $2,799, the FX Sport 6 is not a cheap hybrid bike, but you get some fantastic high-end components for your investment.

Flat handlebar shifters and brakes are significantly less expensive than drop bar components, so you get higher-end components on this bike than you would on a similarly-priced drop bar road bike.

Rather than a traditional road bike groupset, the Trek FX Sport 6 comes with a gravel-oriented Shimano GRX 1x11 drivetrain. This high quality Shimano drivetrain gives you decent gear range and smooth shifting performance over a wide variety of conditions.

The GRX drivetrain has a lot of technology from Shimano’s mountain bike lineup like a clutched rear derailleur that minimizes chain slap and keeps your chain in place over rough roads. If you plan to ride on more than racetrack-smooth tarmac, this is a very welcome improvement.

With a 40-tooth chainring, you have plenty of high end for pedaling fast while still having descent gears for climbing steep hills

The Shimano MT201 hydraulic disc brakes with 160mm front and rear rotors are a great addition to this bike. They offer plenty of stopping power and control so you can feel confident and safe on your ride.

Road bikes traditionally use rim brakes, though disc brakes are becoming the norm. It’s great to see Trek ahead of the curve on this as hydraulic disc brakes give much better performance and continue to work well in wet or dirty conditions.

The Bontrager carbon wheels on the Trek FX Sport 6 are awesomely light and make this bike feel responsive and quick while accelerating. It’s easy to overlook the performance benefits of lighter wheels, but you will notice it once you start pedaling this bike.

These wheels are also tubeless ready, which can let you drop even more weight and get a suppler ride feel with less rolling resistance. This is an awesome feature to have on a multi-purpose bike like this.

The Bontrager GR1 gravel tires on this bike come in a fantastic 40mm width. Recent research has found that wider tires actually have less rolling resistance than narrow ones , contrary to the long-held assumption that the thinnest tires possible made the fastest road bikes. Don’t worry about these tires slowing you down.

Wider tires like these also do a much better job of damping road vibration and keeping you comfortable. This means you’ll be able to ride longer and faster.

Competition for the Trek FX Sport 6

Trek fx sport 6 vs canyon roadlite cf 9 ltd.

Canyon Roadlite CF 9 LTD

Canyon builds some awesome bikes, and the Roadlite CF 9 LTD is no exception. This is one of the few bikes that really competes with the Trek FX Sport 6 in the high-performance hybrid bike category.

At 18 lbs, this bike feels like it’s not there. The mountain bike Sram X01 Eagle drive train gives you awesome range with it’s 10-50 12-speed cassette.

Performance-wise, the Roadlite definitely beats out the FX Sport 6, but it’s also more expensive at $3,249. The biggest downside is that with limited tire clearance, this bike definitely isn’t as all-terrain capable as the Trek.

Trek FX Sport 6 vs Specialized Sirrus 6.0

Specialized Sirrus 6.0

The Sirrus 6.0 is Specialized bike’s offering for the lightweight performance hybrid category. With a sleek carbon frame, a 2x11 road groupset, and a nimble, fast design, this bike is super fun for ripping around town or cruising roads and bike paths.

It’s got slim, slick road tires, so this is definitely a road-specific design. You’ve got more high-end speed than the Trek FX Sport 6, but you won’t be able to go as many places. If you want to stick to the road, the Sirrus is a great choice, but I love the go-anywhere ability of the FX Sport.

I love that the Sirrus 6.0 comes with bar ends standard. This is a feature that used to be common but has fallen out of popularity. I think handlebar ends are super functional and offer additional comfortable hand positions.

Trek FX Sport 6 vs Cannondale Quick Carbon 1

Cannondale Quick Carbon 1

The Cannondale Quick Carbon 1 is about $1000 less than the FX Sport 6, so it’s not a direct competitor, but it’s definitely another option to look at if your on a more limited budget.

It has a more traditional road 2x11 drivetrain that gives you higher-end gearing, but this drivetrain could have some issues if you try to go on bumpy gravel or trails. It also has thinner, slick road tires that limit you to pavement.

The Quick Carbon 1 isn’t as light, fast, or capable, but if you want a similar bike that is fast for commuting or riding around town, this is a good pick that’ll save you some cash.

Who Should Buy the Trek FX Sport 6?

The cycling world is dominated by racing, which means bike company marketing pushes the narrative that race-oriented bikes are the only choice for serious recreational riders.

The Trek FX Sport 6 demolishes this narrative. In general, I love bikes that emphasize fun and functionality over race-worthiness. The FX Sport 6 does this without sacrificing speed or performance.

If you like riding fast for the fun of it rather than for the sake of competition, this bike is for you. If you like pushing your limits without needing to show off, this bike is for you. If you want a ride that makes no compromises on speed but also emphasizes comfort and practicality, this bike is for you.

That said, I do sometimes let my competitive nature come out, and there is no better feeling than passing a group of spandex-clad roadies while riding a wide-tired flat bar bike that’s splattered with mud and grinning from ear to ear. If that sounds fun, this bike is for you.

Where to Buy the Trek FX Sport 6

  • Direct from Trek
  • Find your local Trek dealer

Why Road Cyclists Are Switching to Gravel Bikes | PedalChef

Why Road Cyclists Are Switching to Gravel Bikes

Why Fitness Enthusiasts Are Switching to Smart Cycling Trainers | PedalChef

Why Fitness Enthusiasts Are Switching to Smart Cycling Trainers

Why Competitive Cyclists Are Switching to Aero Road Bikes | PedalChef

Why Competitive Cyclists Are Switching to Aero Road Bikes

Why Eco-Conscious Riders Are Switching to Bamboo Bikes | PedalChef

Why Eco-Conscious Riders Are Switching to Bamboo Bikes

About THE AUTHOR

Jakob Thygerson

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.

Trending Now

Why City Dwellers Are Switching to Folding Bikes | PedalChef

Why City Dwellers Are Switching to Folding Bikes

Why Budget-Conscious Riders Are Switching to Co-op Bike Brands | PedalChef

Why Budget-Conscious Riders Are Switching to Co-op Bike Brands

Why Mountain Bikers Are Switching to Fat Tire Bikes | PedalChef

Why Mountain Bikers Are Switching to Fat Tire Bikes

Why Urban Commuters Are Switching to Electric Bikes | PedalChef

Why Urban Commuters Are Switching to Electric Bikes

pedalchef-icon-256-png

About PedalChef

PedalChef is a blog on all things cycling. We are a group of people who love bikes, and we want to share the joy that comes with the experience. You can read more about us here .

Danny Lawson

©2024 PedalChef. All rights reserved.

We can be reached at [email protected]

PedalChef.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. This site also participates in other affiliate programs, and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies.

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

Trek FX 3 Disc Equipped review

Single-ring hybrid with Shimano Deore and all the extras as standard

Steve Sayers / Our Media

Simon Withers

Lights and kickstand included; full-length fenders; very good contact points; top-notch braking; Shimano Deore gearing

Underpowered lights; only two pairs of bottle bosses; twin stem face plates; no bar ends

Trek makes numerous FX models, including a 'standard' 3.0 Disc, but the Equipped lives up to its name with its raft of practical commuter-friendly accessories.

Along with wide-ranging 1x gearing and high-quality disc brakes – both from Shimano – you get a rear rack with a 25kg capacity, mudguards, front and rear lights, and even a kickstand.

Throw in an upright ride position and 32mm tubeless-ready tyres, and you've got one of the best commuter bikes , with enough versatility for longer, more adventurous rides come the end of your working week.

Trek FX 3 Disc Equipped frame details

Trek FX 3 Disc Equipped

The FX 3 frameset features a familiar combination of a semi-compact aluminium frame and a carbon fork.

Both the frame and fork have pannier rack fittings, with one pair of bottle bosses on the down tube and one on the seat tube.

Trek has maximised its Euro-trekking credentials by speccing a kickstand bolted to the non-driveside chainstay.

Trek FX 3 Disc Equipped commuter bike

The frame profiles are also quite familiar, with a flattened, sloping top tube, oversized down tube and farly slim seatstays, though these aren't dropped below the level of the seat tube (a common attempt at improving comfort).

The build quality seems fine throughout, with chunky, strong-looking welds and a 'Matte Dnister Black' finish.

If a monochrome frame with silver decals isn't for you, the 'Viper Red to Cobra Blood Fade' lives up to its much more colourful moniker.

Trek FX 3 Disc Equipped commuter bike

Unlike the also single-chainring Specialized Sirrus , there's no chain catcher.

Rather than dropouts designed for quick-release axles , the fork is based around Trek's own 'Thru-Skew' axle, which features a 5mm-diameter skewer that screws into a fitting in the other dropout.

I can't see a particular advantage over a standard quick-release axle, but it worked without issue.

Trek FX 3 Disc Equipped geometry

Trek FX 3 Disc Equipped commuter bike

The Trek not only shares a lot of kit similarities with the Specialized Sirrus, the two bikes also have extremely similar geometry, with only a few millimetres here or there throughout, save for the Trek having a noticeably lower stack figure.

That said, both still have pretty upright riding positions.

The Trek’s tube angles are aimed towards stable, rather than sharp, handling.

Here, the stability is boosted by the long 1,060mm wheelbase (the Specialized Sirrus is imperceptibly longer at 1,067mm) in a size medium.

Trek FX 3 Disc Equipped specifications

Trek FX 3 Disc Equipped commuter bike

The 'Equipped' model lives up to its name with a full line-up of components that are usually extras.

Compared to the 'naked' FX 3 Disc that costs £1,025, the Equipped comes with full-length mudguards with mini mudflaps, a tough 25kg-capacity rear rack, and front and rear lights.

The lights themselves are modest – a USB-rechargeable AXA Greenline 35 front light that sits above the front mudguard and an AA battery-powered rear light on the back of the rack.

While it's nice to have them, I'd be tempted to use them in addition to a pair of more powerful rechargeable front lights rather than on their own.

Trek FX 3 Disc Equipped commuter bike

The rack proved solid as a rock, even when quite heavily laden. The mudguards were an equally welcome addition.

My testing included an entire weekend when the rain was both utterly relentless and virtually horizontal. While I got wet, I wasn't covered from head to foot in mud and muck from the towpath and woods.

I also got on very well with the wide and short Bontrager H1 saddle. It has a similar shape to the Specialized's Bridge – fairly short and wide, with a moderate cutout. It proved a perfect companion for the bike's upright riding position.

Trek FX 3 Disc Equipped commuter bike

While I'd always fit bar-end grips on a flat-bar bike, the flattened Bontrager IsoZone grips proved extremely comfortable, more so than round grips.

As with the Genesis Croix De Fer 10 FB and Specialized Sirrus I tested it alongside, the Trek comes with disc brakes , and the excellent Shimano MT201 brakes are, quite simply, excellent.

The 1x Deore gearing sees a 40T crankset, with a 10-speed 11-46t cassette.

Trek FX 3 Disc Equipped commuter bike

One could argue you can never have a bottom gear that's too low, and even my short commute home has an 11 per cent section. The 46-tooth sprocket was a welcome addition.

And while a tiny detail, I prefer a single four-bolt stem faceplate rather than the pair of vertical two-bolt plates Trek has plumped for.

These are ‘Blendr’-compatible though, which enables you to fit dedicated Bontrager bases for lights, computers and cameras.

Trek FX 3 Disc Equipped ride impressions

Cyclist in blue top riding the Trek FX 3 Disc Equipped commuter bike

Trek calls its FX 3 "fast, fun and comfortable" and the marketing spiel's not a million miles away from the ride I experienced.

Its 32mm tyres are just about the ideal width for riding at a decent speed on bumpy British roads.

They offer a large enough air volume for decent comfort if the road's pock-marked and potholed, but without stealing any of your speed.

Trek FX 3 Disc Equipped commuter bike

The Trek will take up to 35mm rubber while still running mudguards, or 38mm when you're fender-free, should you wish to go wider.

It nips along very nicely through city traffic and proved perfect for a 16-mile commute. However, the Bontrager tyres have enough grip on their shoulders so you're not slip-sliding on unsurfaced routes.

With its long wheelbase, you're not going to be zipping around obstacles at speed, but the handling was pleasingly neutral.

That said, I found it fun as well as functional – providing enough grip for muddy towpaths, while the excellent braking means you can descend at speed safely and confidently in all weathers (bar ice, of course).

Cyclist in blue top riding the Trek FX 3 Disc Equipped commuter bike

A decently low bottom gear and a reasonable weight help to make the Trek a decent climber too, though there's a bit of a jump to the largest, easiest 46-tooth sprocket.

You can stay in the saddle and if you want to get out and crank it up, the frame is stiff enough to not waste your effort.

Trek FX 3 Disc Equipped bottom line

Cyclist in blue top riding the Trek FX 3 Disc Equipped commuter bike

While the Trek FX Disc Equipped lights are quite modest, straight out of the box this Trek has pretty much everything you need for the commute or day-to-day leisure riding.

The FX Disc Equipped would be great for long commutes and pretty much any day-to-day riding – and even use as a light touring bike .

Good contact points polish the build and keep it comfortable.

Share this article

trek bike fx

Contributor

You may also like

Bikeradar newsfeed, exposure boost daybright / boost-r reakt light set review, vello rocky review, litelok x1 bike lock review (tested to destruction), kask sintesi helmet review.

trek bike fx

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

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then   View saved stories .

  • Backchannel
  • Newsletters
  • WIRED Insider
  • WIRED Consulting

Adrienne So

Review: Trek FX+ 2

Trek FX 2 electric bike on geometric yellow and green backdrop.

If you buy something using links in our stories, we may earn a commission. This helps support our journalism. Learn more . Please also consider subscribing to WIRED

If you come to me and say, “I’ve never ridden an electric bike before,” I am probably going to take a few factors into consideration. The first is safety. If you’ve never built a bike, I’m probably not going to recommend a mail-order one you have to assemble yourself. You don’t want to discover that you've failed to tighten a screw when you’re going 20 miles per hour down a hill.

You also probably want a bike that’s reasonably priced, comfortable, and convenient to ride. In fact, you might want one that’s as close to your first human-powered bike as possible. Trek’s FX+ 2 hits all the sweet spots. It’s made by a reputable manufacturer with a wide retailer network. The reasonable base price includes all the commuter components, like integrated lights and fenders. Most importantly, it’s light and maneuverable.

It’s not a 65-pound “starter” ebike that will crush you if you stop on a hill or forget to charge the battery. Nor is it a smart bike that makes you spend 20 minutes walking through an app before you can ride it. I've been testing ebikes at home for years, and this is the first one my 60-year-old dad has felt comfortable grabbing and using to chase after my kids. “Sometimes I don’t even turn it on,” he remarked the other day. That’s the whole point.

Trek FX 2 electric bike

The FX+ 2 comes in two configurations and three different sizes. The default model has a regular step-over top tube, and the FX+ 2 Stagger has a step-through top tube. Both come in a variety of colors and have small, medium, and large sizes. I’m 5'2" and the small-size Stagger fits me well. However, if you’re smaller than 5 feet, you might want to look at a different bike.

The cables, battery, and motor are inside the frame. The only clue the FX+ 2 Stagger is an ebike at all is a small unit with only three buttons on it: a power button, and plus and minus symbols. When you turn on the bike, its lights turn on, and two light meters show how much battery you have left and what level of pedal assistance you have toggled on.

That’s it. There’s no bright LCD display and no throttle. This might seem like a downside, but I use my electric bike for commuting and running errands. When I lock it up on a rack, it gives me peace of mind to know that no one’s going to spot a lone ebike in the wild and immediately try to steal it (or the battery).

I also appreciate the clarity in the controls. I’ve tried other electric bikes with a one-button toggle, but I could never remember how many times to press the button to toggle the level of assist, or what light indicated how much battery I had left.

Closeup view of a cargo rack on the Trek FX 2 electric bike.

The FX+ 2 has a 250-watt Hydrive rear hub motor, which is the European standard. That might seem slightly underpowered to Americans looking to power up huge hills, but the bike is so light and maneuverable that having a smaller motor doesn’t matter much at all. The medium frame size weighs 40 pounds—almost 30 pounds lighter than my own Tern GSD S00.

Not only is it easy to scootch up hills, it’s also easy to maneuver onto crowded bike racks when I’m out, or to lift onto our hanging bike rack in my garage. Also, for the past two weeks, it’s the first bike both my dad and I have grabbed to run errands around the neighborhood. The stated range is 35 miles, but we’ve put at least 10 miles on it by now, and the battery seems largely untouched. The fast 45c road tires didn’t hurt, either.

Person riding the Trek FX 2 electric bike on a city street.

It does lack a few features we're used to seeing on higher-end ebikes by now, like a low-maintenance carbon belt drive or a continuously variable shifter. Instead, it has a regular bike chain on a nine-speed Shimano shifting system, with a derailleur that, yes, you may have to adjust occasionally.

But honestly, this was more than fine by me. I didn’t have to learn a new shifting system or figure out how to calibrate the gearing with the assist levels. I wasn’t riding a bike that was trying to predict how much assist I’d need and when—I could simply toggle on more or less as I rode. In that way, it felt much easier and more natural. 

It also has a lot of accessories that may be equally important, especially as the weather here in Oregon has grown cold, gray, and wet in the past few weeks. The 120-lumen headlamp is incredibly bright. The bell is incredibly loud. The fenders have kept my jeans relatively dry, and I’ve been able to bungee items onto the rear rack. A kickstand keeps it up in the garage for quick access, and hydraulic disc brakes work even when the rain is pouring down.

The price point may seem high compared to direct-to-consumer bikes from Aventon, Lectric, or Rad Power. But once you start adding up the cost of quality components, labor, and accessories, their prices start inching up. Mail-order companies are able to offer much lower prices on base models because their motors are cheaper. With a nicer motor, a mail-order bike like the Ride1Up Prodigy is priced comparably to the FX+ 2, and you have to assemble and safety-check it yourself.

Over the years, I’ve seen bicycle manufacturers debate and then struggle to add or subtract features that will make electric bikes more attractive to people who haven’t biked before. Extremely low step-throughs! Weird shifting systems! Apps! Huge tires! Maybe the best way to get people on an electric bike is the same way you get people on a regular bike—by making it fun, light, and easy to ride.

trek bike fx

Trek FX+ 2 review

The trex fx+ 2 is a great, simple electric bike but needs a bit more to live up to its high price tag.

Trek FX+ 2 eBike shown parked in the street

Tom's Guide Verdict

The Trek FX+ 2 is an eBike that is easy to ride and feels like a bike, but the lack of certain features makes it tough to justify its $2,399 price.

Clean design

Responsive pedal assist

Comes with fenders and rack included

No removable battery

Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.

The Trek FX+ 2 feels like a bike. Trek has definitely made an effort for this city-focused eBike to look and feel like a bike as much as possible and in that effort, it succeeded. The FX+ 2 felt like riding a traditional bicycle until you really turn on the pedal assist, and even then it still largely kept that feel. At around 40 pounds, it also is closer in weight to a traditional bicycle, at least compared to the competition. I was able to get it up and down stairs without breaking a sweat, which was convenient. 

Weight: 40.13 pounds Max rider weight: 300 pounds Gearing: 9-speed Shimano Altus Battery: 250Wh Motor: 250W HyDrive motor Max assisted speed: 20 mph Max estimated range: 35 miles

For all these successes, the $2,399 FX+2 is significantly more expensive than our best budget electric bike , t he Aventon Soltera ($1,399) or our best overall electric bike , t he Rad Power RadCity 5 Plus ($1,999). This despite the FX+ 2 having no throttle, no LCD display and no removable battery. As enjoyable as riding it may be — and it is — it’s tough to recommend it over the competition.  

Trek FX+ 2 eBike review: Price and availability 

A man riding a Trek FX+ 2 eBike.

The Trek FX+ 2 came out in May 2022 at a starting price of $2,200, but the version we reviewed came with a price tag of $2,399. Unfortunately, it looks like the price has gone up since launch, with the 2023 models of the FX+ 2 coming in at $2,499 on Trek’s website.

The good news is that you are not forced to buy the FX+ 2 from Trek. Trek offers its bikes through local retailers in addition to its website, and those retailers may offer lower (or higher) prices than Trek. So make sure to check with your local bike shop before adding the FX+ 2 to your cart.

Trek FX+ 2 eBike review: Design 

Trek FX+ 2 eBike parked on a sidewalk

Trek offers the FX+ 2 eBike in four sizes (S, M, L, XL) and three colors: Satin Trek Black, Viper Red and Satin Mulsanne Blue. The model I was provided with was a Satin Mulsanne blue in size L, which worked perfectly with my 6-foot 2-inch height and 32-inch inseam.

At first glance, the FX+ 2 looks like a traditional bicycle. That’s because Trek has intentionally designed it this way, with the cables and battery stored within the tubes of the bike. Unfortunately, that means the battery isn’t removable — at least by you. Trek says that the battery can be removed by a trained technician, so you’ll need to head to a shop if anything goes wrong. 

Trek FX+ 2 eBike review

That said, you can still add an external battery for extra range. There are two water bottle holders, one on the seat tube and one on the down tube, and the one on the downtube allows for a 250Wh plug-and-play Range Extender battery. This allows you to easily double your range if needed. That battery life comes at a price though; the Hyena Range Extender Battery costs $499.

Designed for commuters and city bikers, the FX+ 2 comes already equipped with some much-needed accessories. The eBike comes stock with a front fender, rear fender, headlight, taillight, kickstand, bell and rear bike rack — no need to buy one of the best bike lights separately. There’s also a chain guard to prevent clothes from getting caught in the chain.

Trek FX+ 2 eBike review

Still, there are a couple of things missing in the design that would be nice to have. First, the Hyena pedal assist control system has an LED display for the battery status and pedal assist mode. It is easy to use and read, but many eBikes now have LCD displays, so this feels cheap by comparison. Additionally, the wheels are not quick-release, which means if something goes wrong you’ll need tools on you to get the wheels off.

But the biggest design flaw is the lack of any shock absorption in the bike. The FX+ 2 definitely feels every bump and pothole, especially at top speed. Even merely adding a seat post shock absorber would be a welcome addition.

Trek FX+ 2 eBike review: Performance 

Trek FX+ 2 eBike review

The performance of the Trek FX+ 2 was more than adequate. Between the three power modes (Eco, Normal and Turbo) and the nine-speed rear cassette, I was able to hit the top speed of 20 mph frequently, regularly averaging 13MPH while riding through the streets of Atlanta.

Hills were also not a problem once you get a feel for the bike. I could regularly keep my cadence going up hills by using the full range of the bike’s gears and the Turbo pedal assist mode. The pedal assist modes kicked in very smoothly and with almost no lag.

Trek FX+ 2 eBike review

The only shortcoming the FX+ 2 really has in terms of performance is the lack of a throttle to give riders fully motor-assisted thrust (i.e. no using your pedals), which does come on some of the FX+ 2’s competitors like the Soltera and RadCity 5 Plus. However, I would be lying if I said I missed it. The bike is plenty quick and easy to ride without it. 

Trek FX+ 2 eBike review: Battery life and range 

Trek states that the FX+ 2’s 250Wh battery can provide riders with up to 35 minutes of range. This of course depends on a range of factors, from the pedal assist mode you typically use to how hilly your terrain is.

Trek FX+ 2 eBike review

My commute to work was just over five and a half miles round trip and I would go through about a quarter of the battery. That puts my estimated range at closer to 22 miles. However, I almost always used the Turbo (highest) pedal assist and I do have a large hill each way. So had I been more conservative I could have probably got more range out of the FX+ 2. 

Luckily if you do need to charge the bike, it only takes around two hours for a full charge and the charger can be plugged into any wall outlet.

Trek FX+ 2 eBike review: Competition 

Unfortunately, the Trek FX+ 2 really struggles when compared to the competition, at least on paper. I have yet to ride the Aventon Soltera, but it is currently our best budget eBike and has a very similar feature set and design aesthetic compared to the FX+ 2. While the pedal-assist seems like it is not as smooth and responsive as the FX+ 2 and it lacks a 9-speed option, you can still get a 7-speed for $1,399. That’s $1,000 less than the FX+ 2 I reviewed, but you get more range, a throttle and an LCD display.

Trek FX+ 2 eBike review

If you want something higher-end, the Rad Power RadCity5 Plus is our best budget bike and would still be my pick over the FX+ 2 based on the research I have done on the RadCity 5 Plus. The FX+ 2 is lighter, and significantly so (over 20 pounds!), but the RadCity 5 Plus has a feature set that really sets it apart. Yes, you only get a 7-speed rear cassette, but you also get a throttle, a removable battery and two LCD displays compared to the zero LCD displays on the FX+ 2.

Trek FX+ 2 eBike review: Bottom line 

Trek FX+ 2 eBike review

Ultimately, if the Trek FX+ 2 eBike was cheaper it would be a lot easier to recommend. It was a lot of fun to ride, easy to carry with its 40-pound weight and has a very clean design. If price weren’t a factor, I would say the quick pedal assist make it a great choice, and the fact that it comes with fenders and a rack standard is a nice touch.

But none of that can make me get past the fact that this bike is hundreds — if not a thousand — dollars more than its competition without providing a lot of reasons why. Yes, it's lightweight, and it's a Trek so the build quality is excellent, but it lacks the LCD displays, removable battery or throttle that so many of the best electric bikes have. If the FX+ 2 had even some of those features, I’d rate it significantly higher, even with the price. 

Malcolm McMillan

Malcolm McMillan is a senior writer for Tom's Guide, covering all the latest in streaming TV shows and movies. That means news, analysis, recommendations, reviews and more for just about anything you can watch, including sports! If it can be seen on a screen, he can write about it. Previously, Malcolm had been a staff writer for Tom's Guide for over a year, with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI), A/V tech and VR headsets.

Before writing for Tom's Guide, Malcolm worked as a fantasy football analyst writing for several sites and also had a brief stint working for Microsoft selling laptops, Xbox products and even the ill-fated Windows phone. He is passionate about video games and sports, though both cause him to yell at the TV frequently. He proudly sports many tattoos, including an Arsenal tattoo, in honor of the team that causes him to yell at the TV the most.

New Google 4K Chromecast in the works — what we know

This 8-in-1 MagSafe charger is 30% off now — and it's the perfect desk accessory

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Flip 6 color and storage options leaked — what we know

Most Popular

trek bike fx

Shop in-store for even more deals!

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

Bike Service

Mountain Bike Suspension Service

Mountain Bike Suspension Service

Trade In Your Bike

Trade in your bike

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

SAFETY GEAR

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

Safety Gear

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

WHEELS & TIRES

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

BRAKES & PEDALS

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

Forks & Cockpit

  • Grips and Bar Tape
  • Rigid Forks
  • Suspension Forks

Accessories

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

Brand Guides

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

  • Account Account
  • Subtotal : $ 0.00 Checkout Cart
  • Bicycling Catalog

Trek FX Sport 4

Trek FX Sport 4

FX Sport 4 is a carbon fiber fitness bike for riders who want the speed of a lightweight road bike with the comfort and control of a flat handlebar. The 1x drivetrain simplifies shifting without sacrificing gear range, making this high-performance bike perfect for everything from solo workouts to speedy group rides. - The 1x drivetrain delivers a wide range of gearing with the simplicity of a single shifter - You get the superior ride quality of carbon without the bank-breaking price - On your left, roadie! This fitness bike is more than capable of taking on speedy group road rides - It's easy to accessorize with fenders, lights, and more!

Geo Chart

* Subject to change without notice.

Part Numbers

Trek FX Sport 4 Color: Dark Aquatic

cover image

Elektrostal

City in moscow oblast, russia / from wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, dear wikiwand ai, let's keep it short by simply answering these key questions:.

Can you list the top facts and stats about Elektrostal?

Summarize this article for a 10 year old

trek bike fx

  • Regions  
  • Russia  
  • Moscow Oblast  

Elektrostal

Cycling routes in

Find the right bike route for you through Elektrostal, where we've got 330 cycle routes to explore. The routes you most commonly find here are of the hilly type. Most people get on their bikes to ride here in the months of June and August.

Find cycle routes in Elektrostal:

Flat routes | Hilly routes | Uphill routes | Downhill routes | Quick rides | Long tours | Top rated routes

Join the fast growing global cycling community

Are you ready for the full cycling experience.

IMAGES

  1. Trek FX FX 1 (2017)

    trek bike fx

  2. Trek FX 3 Disc Hybrid Bike 2019 Black

    trek bike fx

  3. Trek FX Sport 5 Hybrid Bike 2021 Matte Dnister Black

    trek bike fx

  4. FX 2 Disc

    trek bike fx

  5. Trek FX Sport Carbon 4 (2021)

    trek bike fx

  6. Trek FX 1 Disc 2023

    trek bike fx

VIDEO

  1. TREK FX 7.2

  2. 2019年モデル TREK(トレック) FX3・FX3 Disc・FX3 Women's Discを一挙ご紹介!

  3. TREK FX EVERYWHERE! #CYCLING #BIKE #BIKES #BIKING #BICYCLE #trekbikes #SHORTS

  4. TREK FX sport 5 Carbon bike Available only pro bikers Omr call :91426 66664

  5. Morning Ride Bliss: Trek FX Sport 6

  6. some thoughts on the Trek FX 2

COMMENTS

  1. FX

    Fitness bikes. FX. The perfect balance of fitness and fun. FX is the most popular hybrid bike in the world for good reason. Go for a cruise, get a workout in, pull your kids, ride to work, run errands—this comfortable, reliable bike truly does it all.

  2. Trek FX 1 (Disc) Review: A Good Bike or Waste of Money?

    Trek FX 1 and FX 1 Disc bikes are popular thanks to their affordable price and riding comfort. They retail for $599 and $699, respectively (in 2023). They are available in multiple sizes (FX 1: S-XL, FX 1 Disc: XS-XXL), pleasing many riders. You can also choose from two colors that change with each new generation.

  3. Trek FX 2 Disc Equipped review: Unspectacular but effective

    Trek's FX range of bikes is quite extensive, starting at the £500.00/$599.99 FX 1 and going all the way to the full-carbon £3,050.00/$2,799.99 FX Sport 6. The FX 2 is available with a step ...

  4. 2022 Trek FX 3 Review

    56 Comments. This 2022 Trek FX 3 review covers everything you need to know about the best hybrid bike for 2022. The 2022 Trek FX 3 checks all the boxes: disc brakes, 1X drivetrain, tubeless ready wheels and more! Its a fitness hybrid, which means you can ride it like a flat bar road bike while staying comfortable, or use it to commute around town.

  5. Riding with the Trek 7.2 FX: Unbiased Bike Review

    The Trek 7.2 FX is a versatile hybrid bike, expertly blending the comfort of a road bike and the adaptability of a mountain bike. Ideal for city commutes and gravel roads, its lightweight Alpha Gold Aluminum frame, ergonomic design, and 700c wheels offer a smooth, efficient ride for long distances.

  6. Trek FX 1 vs. 2 vs. 3 and FX Sport 4 vs. 5 vs. 6

    Buy FX 3 Disc. Also available as a step-through. The best bike from the Trek FX Sport family is the mid-range FX Sport 5 Disc, as it uses a simple 1X drivetrain and is much lighter than the FX Sport 4. While the Trek FX Sport 6 is much lighter, mainly due to the carbon wheels, it is also much more expensive.

  7. Trek FX Review

    TREK FX Review. Last updated: May 21, 2020. Category: Hybrid Bikes. In the FX and FX Sport ranges, Trek have built a hybrid bike befitting its all-rounder tag. It is a flat-barred commuter on one hand but with a spec sheet to tackle much longer, much more demanding riding - particularly at the top end of the range.

  8. Trek Fx Sport 6 Review

    The Trek FX Sport 6 is one of the highest performance hybrid bikes you can buy. The lightweight carbon frame and wheels make this faster than many road bikes. The upright flat bar riding position is more comfortable than aggressive drop bar road bikes. Features like hidden fender mounts make this bike versatile and ready for any type of riding.

  9. Trek FX 3 Disc Equipped review

    Read our expert review of the Trek FX 3 Disc Equipped, a versatile hybrid bike with reliable components and a comfortable ride.

  10. Trek FX+ 2 Review: The Complete Ebike Commuter Package

    Photograph: Emily Perkins/Trek. The FX+ 2 comes in two configurations and three different sizes. The default model has a regular step-over top tube, and the FX+ 2 Stagger has a step-through top ...

  11. Trek FX+ 2 review

    The Trek FX+ 2 came out in May 2022 at a starting price of $2,200, but the version we reviewed came with a price tag of $2,399. Unfortunately, it looks like the price has gone up since launch ...

  12. Trek FX Sport 4

    Details. FX Sport 4 is a carbon fiber fitness bike for riders who want the speed of a lightweight road bike with the comfort and control of a flat handlebar. The 1x drivetrain simplifies shifting without sacrificing gear range, making this high-performance bike perfect for everything from solo workouts to speedy group rides. - The 1x drivetrain ...

  13. Elektrostal

    Elektrostal , lit: Electric and Сталь , lit: Steel) is a city in Moscow Oblast, Russia, located 58 kilometers east of Moscow. Population: 155,196 ; 146,294 ...

  14. Cycling routes in Elektrostal

    Find the right bike route for you through Elektrostal, where we've got 327 cycle routes to explore. The routes you most commonly find here are of the hilly type. Most people get on their bikes to ride here in the months of June and August.

  15. Elektrostal

    Elektrostal. Elektrostal ( Russian: Электроста́ль) is a city in Moscow Oblast, Russia. It is 58 kilometers (36 mi) east of Moscow. As of 2010, 155,196 people lived there.

  16. 9th radio centre of Moscow, Elektrostal

    The 9th radio centre of Moscow was a high power shortwave and medium wave broadcasting facility at Elektrostal near Moscow.Its broadcasting frequency was 873 kHz with a transmission power of up to 1200 kilowatts. It was also used as radio jammer of "unwanted" stations.