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Results have arrived, the best trail hardtail: specialized fuse expert 29 vs. trek roscoe 9.
The Specialized Fuse 29 and Trek Roscoe are the two most popular aluminum trail hardtails on the market. We compare the best-selling 2023 Fuse Expert 29 and Roscoe 9 models to see which mountain bike is best.
Written by: Bruce Lin
Published on: Nov 14, 2023
Posted in: Guides
What’s the best mountain bike to get if you’re on a budget? The answer is an affordable and versatile trail hardtail. Trail hardtails are simple (there’s no rear suspension) so they’re cheaper and easier to own and maintain. But with relaxed geometry and a longer travel fork, they can handle a wide range of terrain from fast flow trails to steep and gnarly downhill tracks.
The two most popular models in the trail hardtail category are the Specialized Fuse Expert 29 and the Trek Roscoe 9. They’re best sellers and they come with decent mid-range components so they won’t need any upgrades. But how do they stack up against one another? We compare these two do-it-all hardtails to find out.
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1. Specialized Fuse vs. Trek Roscoe: Overview
Both bikes use aluminum frames with threaded bottom brackets, internal cable routing, two bottle cage mounts, and 29” wheels. Both weigh right around 30 pounds, which is fairly standard for entry- to mid-level aluminum hardtails.
Both use TransX dropper seatposts. Other than the drivetrains, the biggest difference between the two bikes is in the forks. The Fuse comes with a 130mm Fox Rhythm 34 while the Roscoe uses a 140mm Fox Rhythm 36. The Fox 34 is lighter because it has thinner 34mm stanchions compared to the Fox 36 which uses 36mm stanchions. On the flip side, the Fox 36 is a bit stiffer and has more travel than the Fox 34, which keeps it a bit more plush feeling and composed on rough terrain. The Fox 36 caters more toward aggressive downhill riding while the Fox 34 is a bit more balanced for all-around trail riding.
One other feature worth noting is the sliding rear dropouts on the Fuse. This gives riders the option to adjust the chainstay length or set the frame up as a single speed.
2. Specialized Fuse Expert 29 vs. Trek Roscoe 9: Component Comparison
- Frame: Both frames are nearly identical in terms of construction and quality. I prefer the adjustable rear dropouts of the Fuse, however, because it gives riders more adjustability, plus additional options for fixing backcountry mechanicals or trying a future singlespeed build. Winner: Fuse
- Fork: Both use Fox Rhythm forks with the basic Grip damper. I tend to prefer the stiffer Fox 36 chassis because I ride more rough and technical downhills. Winner: Roscoe
- Drivetrain: SRAM GX vs. Shimano SLX/XT are both super solid and reliable. I’m a SRAM user, and I like that the Fuse has a 52t granny gear (vs. 51t) and it doesn’t use a third-party crankset (the Roscoe uses an e*thirteen crank). Winner: Fuse
- Brakes: Both bikes have 4-piston brakes for extra stopping power. I personally prefer the feel of SRAM brakes to Shimano. Winner: Fuse
- Wheels: Both bikes use entry-level alloy wheels with 29mm internal rim widths and basic hubs. There’s really nothing to choose between these wheels, but I like that the Bontragers aren’t generic and at least have a model name… Winner: Roscoe
- Dropper: Both bikes use basic TransX droppers with similar travel for the various frame sizes. I’m going to give this to the Roscoe though because it uses the more common 31.6mm size versus the oversized 34.9mm dropper on the Fuse. It will be easier to replace or upgrade in the future. Winner: Roscoe
- Weight: With the stock build, the Roscoe is about a pound lighter. Winner: Roscoe
- Price: The Roscoe retails for $400 less. Winner: Roscoe
Final Score
- Fuse Expert 29: 3
- Roscoe 9: 5
It looks like the Roscoe beats out the Fuse by a couple of points, but keep in mind that these points are mostly based on my personal tastes and are pretty subjective.
Some features may also be more important to some riders than others. For example, the sliding rear dropout is the standout feature of the Fuse to me, and it’s the main reason I’d pick the Fuse, but many other riders likely won’t care about it.
3. Specialized Fuse vs. Trek Roscoe: Geometry Comparison
The Fuse and Roscoe use very similar geometry. The biggest difference between the two frames is the head angle. The Roscoe’s 65-degree head angle is 1.5 degrees slacker than the Fuse (which also gives the Roscoe a ~20mm longer wheelbase). What does this mean? In the most basic terms, the Roscoe will feel more stable while the Fuse will feel more agile. Both bikes can handle a very wide range of terrain, but if you’re regularly riding steep and fast downhill trails, the slacker Roscoe will feel a bit more confidence-inspiring. The Fuse, on the other, will feel less sluggish on climbs, and more lively on flat or rolling trails.
Both bikes have decently steep seat angles to put riders in a good position over the cranks on steep climbs, but the Roscoe’s seat angle is slightly steeper, which some riders might prefer (though I honestly don’t think that 0.7 degrees will make that big of a difference).
The other notable difference is in the stack height. In every size, the Fuse has 5-10mm less stack height. This can be important to riders who want to run a lower bar height for XC riding.
Note that the Fuse has a range for chainstay length because of the sliding rear dropouts. It can be adjusted to be both shorter (more agile) and longer (more stable) than the Roscoe.
Finally, it’s worth noting that the Roscoe is also available in an additional M/L size. This could be good for riders who feel like they are between the medium and large sizes.
4. Concluding Thoughts
With a lighter Fox 34 fork and slightly steeper head angle, the Fuse should appeal more to riders who lean more toward the XC side of the riding spectrum. For riders more interested in the enduro and downhill side of the spectrum, the bigger Fox 36 fork and slacker head angle of the Roscoe will be more appealing.
As for value, the Fuse Expert 29 and Roscoe 9 have very comparable specs, so the Roscoe is the better value with a retail price that is $400 less.
What would I pick? Personally, I’d choose the Fuse. As I’ve already mentioned, I’m a SRAM fan and I like having a sliding rear dropout so I can convert the bike to a singlespeed someday in the future. What would you choose?
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Trek Roscoe 8 vs Specialized Fuse
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I'm between Trek Roscoe 8 or Specialized Fuse Comp. Both bikes msrp are similar. Any thoughts or recommendations ??? Appreciate your help. Sent from my SM-G975U using Tapatalk
Hub on the Trek is an odd ball isn't it? Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk
I'd go Trek.
https://www.vitalmtb.com/product/guide/Bikes,3/Jamis/Komodo-A1-27-5,24864#product-specs
jamis is $250 more than the trek and 11 spd
Specilized is $150 more and 11 spd as well, forks are better on both, probably won't notice that much in the real world though
Go with Trek, I also would suggest Salsa Timberjack, shorter rear end and you can go 29 or 27.5+. I got the TJ over both and was super happy. Sent from my SM-G973U using Tapatalk
We have two fuses in the family. They are fun bike. Better than trek model for sure. But id still recommend the orbea over fuse.
I completely disagree with this ( which is fine we have different opinions) I didn't like the Fuse at all, Trek in my opinion way better..To each is own, ride on..CF.
Please explain what parts were way better. IYO
The bike must fit you, me having long legs = one is better, try using them 90 min to find the one that is confortable. If equal choose the shop you have confidence with.
It really wasn't about components for me as it was about fit, the Fuse just didn't feel right at all (again imo). I am in no way a "big S hater" they make great bikes but for me it's Trek. And I have always been a high end custom boutique bike snob. Long long list of bikes. You really just need to ride both and one of them should just speak to you over all. Good luck.
Thanks Fred. If the op is still shopping i hope he/she is happy with what gets purchased and lets us know. Post a pic. Every bike is diff and every rider as well. So enjoy shopping and get out riding
Fuse6F said: Thanks Fred. If the op is still shopping i hope he/she is happy with what gets purchased and lets us know. Post a pic. Every bike is diff and every rider as well. So enjoy shopping and get out riding Click to expand...
As mentioned before, fit and feel are key. Everything else can be upgraded as you go. I would also add the Rocky Mountain Growler to your list (and maybe Cannondale Cujo). I'm currently bike shopping and comparing similar bikes. The mid-tier Growler has a better fork than the Trek or Fuse. You also have the option of jumping to the top-tier and getting the RS Revelation. https://99spokes.com/compare?bikes=...p-27.5plus-2019,rockymountain-growler-40-2019
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Based on frame geometry and build specs.
A bike with lower gearing will be easier to ride up steep hills, while a higher top end means it will pedal faster down hills.
(descending)
Based on build material and quality level of the frame, fork, wheelset, groupset, suspension system, and more.
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Roscoe 7 2021 Trek. Frame. Specialized A1 Aluminum, 148mm thru-axle, tapered head tube, internal cable routing. Colors: Gloss Tarmac Black / Abalone; Gloss Sky / Cast Blue. Alpha Gold Aluminium, tapered head tube, internal derailleur and dropper post routing, rack and kickstand mount, Boost141, 5 mm QR. Colors: Gloss Tarmac Black / Abalone ...
Front Travel. 120mm. 130mm. Brand Site. trekbikes.com. specialized.com. Summary. The Trek Roscoe 7 and Specialized Fuse 27.5 are both 27.5″ aluminum frame hardtail trail bikes. The Roscoe 7 has better components, while the Fuse 27.5 has a bigger fork.
The Specialized Fuse 27.5 and Trek Roscoe 7 are both 27.5″ aluminum frame hardtail mountain bikes. The Fuse 27.5 has a bigger fork, while the Roscoe 7 has better components.
Specialized fuse 27.5+ vs Trek Roscoe 7. Help! I'm really stuck deciding between these 2 bikes! I would love some insight into making the best choice Thanks! Fuse frame is miles ahead of the Roscoe. Find a demo ride and experience each. You will be the final arbiter. specialized brother.
2020 Specialized Fuse 27.5 versus 2020 Trek Roscoe 7, which one to choose? Went out looking for a couple hardtails today. My local Trek store has the 2020 Roscoe 7 for $100 off so $1149. LBS near me has 2020 Fuse 27.5 for $1062. Which would you choose and why?
Hello and welcome to the flow! Today on Cycling With Sully we are comparing the 2021 models years of the Trek Roscoe 7 the Specialized Fuse 27.5 and the Gian...
The 2023 Trek Roscoe 9 uses Shimano SLX and XT drivetrain. Both use TransX dropper seatposts. Other than the drivetrains, the biggest difference between the two bikes is in the forks. The Fuse comes with a 130mm Fox Rhythm 34 while the Roscoe uses a 140mm Fox Rhythm 36.
Trek Roscoe 7 vs. Specialized Fuse Expert. I'm looking to get a 27.5+ bike, and the most available around me are the Trek Roscoe 7 and Specialized Fuse expert (both 2019 models). The best price I've found for the Roscoe 7 is about $1200 and the best price for the Fuse Expert is $1600. I also looked at the Roscoe 8, but it was about $1700.
The Specialized Fuse continues its reign of dominance in the hardtail mountain bike category. For the 2020 model year, this bicycle received a total overhaul, and it shreds harder than ever with 29-inch wheels. This bicycle does it all; it is a respectable climber, has a high-fun factor, descends well on a wide range of terrain, and wears a relatively solid build kit.
I was looking at the Specialized Fuse 27.5 The Giant Fathom 2 And the Trek Rosco 7 Which would be the best bang for your buck and what are some pros and cons I should keep in mind. Save Share. Like. ... Trek Roscoe has a steeper (less modern) Head tube angle than the others. I think the Fathom is the newest, Fuse seems close in geo.
Our Verdict. The Trek Roscoe 7 is an adaptable and well-rounded hardtail mountain bike that is competent in most of situations. Climbing abilities were rock solid and this bike is more capable than you might think on the descent. This hardtail rolls on 29 x 2.6-inch rubber that delivers a comfortable and surprisingly efficient ride.
Trek Roscoe 7-9 vs. Specialized Fuse Base-Comp. Jump to Latest ... Guys so I am pretty much sold on the 27.5+ Hardtail style bike however I am unable to decide between the Specialized Fuse Base or Comp vs Trek Roscoe 7 or 8 and which is your preferred option and why? Does the higher price of the comp and 8 justify the upcharge or can you get by ...
The Specialized Fuse 27.5, Trek Roscoe 6, and Trek Roscoe 7 are all 27.5″ aluminum frame mountain bikes. The Roscoe 7 has better components. Bikes Compare More Bike Comparison. Add Custom Bike Remove All Bikes Save. Fuse 27.5 2021 Specialized. Roscoe 6 2021 Trek. Roscoe 7 2021 Trek. MSRP:
The Fuse has a Thru Axle rear wheel, the Roscoe a quick release rear wheel but both are boost. The 2020 Fuse has a 10 speed, 11-42 Shimano Deore drive train wich has less range than the one on the Roscoe, wich is an 12 speed, 11-50 SRAM SX and comes with a plastic derailleur (wich is simply unacceptable at bicycles that cost more than 300 bucks ...
Trek Roscoe 8 vs Specialized Fuse Jump to Latest Follow 26K views 14 replies 9 participants last post by Juancts Aug 31, 2019
The Specialized Fuse 27.5 and Trek Roscoe 7 are both 27.5″ aluminum frame hardtail trail bikes. The Fuse 27.5 has a bigger fork, while the Roscoe 7 has better components.
The Fuse is a great bike, and I think it still has the option to run 27.5 or 29 wheels. The Roscoe 7 has a better Recon fork, than the basic spec Judy fork on the Specialized Sport. So for me if it was a choice between the two I'd choose the Trek.
The Specialized Fuse 27.5, Trek Roscoe 7, and Trek Roscoe 8 are all 27.5″ aluminum frame mountain bikes. The Roscoe 8 has better components and a better fork. Explore the differences below. Add Custom Bike Remove All Save. Fuse 27.5 Specialized · 2021. Roscoe 7 Trek · 2021. Roscoe 8 Trek · 2021. MSRP: $1,500:
The Specialized Fuse Comp 29, Trek Roscoe 7, and Trek Roscoe 7 are all aluminum frame hardtail mountain bikes. The Fuse Comp 29 has 29″ aluminum wheels, the Roscoe 7 has 27.5″ aluminum wheels and better components, and the Roscoe 7 has 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum wheels and a bigger fork.
Gear Range. A bike with lower gearing will be easier to ride up steep hills, while a higher top end means it will pedal faster down hills. Lowest gear. (climbing) 22 mph. 2021 Fuse 27.5. 21 mph. 2022 Roscoe 6. 24 mph.
The Specialized Fuse 27.5 and Trek Roscoe 8 are both 27.5″ aluminum frame hardtail trail bikes. The Fuse 27.5 has a bigger fork, while the Roscoe 8 has better components and a better fork. Similar Bikes. Accessories. Ride Feel. Based on frame geometry and build specs. Terrain. easy extreme. Handling. nimble stable.
The Roscoe 6 is a completely different bike from the 7, 8, and 9, so if you have heard great things about Roscoes, the 6 isn't those things. Nukeproof scout 290. It is ~$400-500 more, but the spec/components and geo is better. Comes with an air fork and a better drivetrain than the specialized. The canyon stoic 2 is in the same price range ...
The Specialized Rockhopper Expert and Trek Roscoe 7 are both 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum frame hardtail mountain bikes with upper mid-range components. The Roscoe 7 has a dropper post, a better fork, and a bigger fork. ... Specialized A1 premium butted alloy, zero-stack head tube, internal cable routing, 135x9mm forged dropouts, chainstay-mounted ...