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2023 Trek Domane+ e-road bike review: Ultra-quiet, ultra-stealthy

Flagship model weighs just 12.21 kg, and us-spec bikes get a genuinely useful 45 km/h cutoff from the new tq mid-drive motor..

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Trek has today announced the third generation of its Domane+ e-assist road bike, and it’s quite the change from the one that came before. There’s a new motor from German company TQ, a brand-new carbon fiber frame with more advanced carbon fiber content and construction, more tire clearance, and in general, a sleeker and lighter total package that looks and feels more like a “regular” road bike.

It sounds like quite the complete package on paper, and it mostly is in reality – with some caveats, of course. 

The lightning pace of e-bike motor development 

Trek clearly isn’t shy about switching motor suppliers. Each generation of the Domane+ has used a different brand of motor: Bosch on the first generation one, Fazua on the second iteration, and now TQ on this latest third-generation model. 

Why the switch, you wonder? Because it seems like quite the advancement in a number of key areas.

First and foremost, the TQ HPR-50 motor is legitimately tiny, so much so that in profile, you almost wouldn’t guess at all that the Domane+ is an e-bike. Unlike the previous Bosch and Fazua units, the TQ is hidden completely inside a painted-to-match shroud at the bottom bracket with little on the outside to give anything away. Of course, a closer look reveals clues such as the cooling port on the underside of the cover, but even the battery is fully integrated inside the down tube.

trek e bike full carbon

Trek is also touting the HPR-50’s unusually quiet operation, which comes about thanks to a unique interior configuration that does away with the usual array of reduction gears and/or belts, and is claimed to reduce internal friction, too. Trek’s official press materials also make mention of the lower Q-factor as compared to the Fazua unit, but don’t get too excited; it’s only down 2 mm in total, and the 163 mm figure is still about 12 mm wider than what you get with Shimano GRX, or 17 mm wider than most dedicated road cranks. 

Be that as it may, the specs of the TQ HPR-50 motor are impressive. The official maximum power output is 300 W (or 50 Nm of torque), and it’s powered by a 360 Wh Li-ion battery in the down tube that Trek claims is good for “up to” 145 km (90 miles) in Eco mode. An optional range extender battery tucks into a water bottle cage for another 160 Wh, and the system can even run on just the range extender battery alone should you want to fly with your new Domane+ and need to tuck in under typical airline battery size restrictions.

Three levels of e-assist are available, each of which can be customized using the Trek Central smartphone app. Switching between the three assist levels is literally at your fingertips thanks to convenient remote buttons positioned next to the brake lever hoods, while the various mode screens on the high-resolution LCD panel on the top tube are accessed directly on that panel. Among the available screen pages are windows for remaining battery life (expressed numerically as both a percentage and time to empty, and visually with bars), current power output, speed, and distance – and when you’re charging the system, the display even gives you a precise countdown to when the battery is full. 

Frame design implications

The bigger benefit of switching to the TQ HPR-50 motor is arguably how it affects the latest Domane+’s frame design. Trek sought to have this version look as much like a non-powered bike as possible, and aside from some generally inflated proportions, that goal seems to have been met.

The motor’s smaller form factor makes for a more normal-looking bottom bracket area, and although the down tube is notably bulbous given the internally housed battery, the whole frame looks surprisingly proportional. The Q-factor may not have changed much, but the more typical chainline has allowed Trek to switch to a standard 142 mm-wide rear hub in place of the “Road Boost” 148 mm one on the previous-generation Domane+, which is a great move for wheel compatibility.

trek e bike full carbon

The 2023 Domane+ marks the first time Trek has used its top-end OCLV 800 carbon fiber content. Combined with the integrated down tube battery – meaning there’s no need for a large hatch – Trek claims to have lopped 450 g from the previous Domane+ chassis. Claimed weight for an unpainted 56 cm frame is around 1,250 g. Adding to that is 1,850 g for the motor, 1,835 g for the 360-Wh battery, plus a few more grams for mounting hardware.

That claimed frame weight includes the latest version of Trek’s IsoSpeed pivoting seat cluster concept. This incarnation isn’t adjustable, but it does use a conventional (albeit proprietary) telescoping carbon fiber seatpost instead of the integrated seatmast of previous IsoSpeed-equipped bikes. 

All in, my 52 cm flagship sample with a SRAM Red eTap AXS wireless electronic 1×12 groupset and Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37V carbon clinchers tips the scales at a comparatively svelte 12.21 kg (26.92 lb).

trek e bike full carbon

Save for a 10 mm increase in chainstay length – a consequence of the TQ HPR-50’s motor casing size – frame geometry is the same as the non-powered Domane, down to the millimeter. Stack and reach figures are more upright and relaxed as compared to the Madone or Emonda, but both are still pretty sporty overall, and trail figures in the low-60s across the board are intended to provide fairly nimble handling manners. 

Despite those virtually identical dimensions, the Domane+ is approved for tires up to 40 mm-wide, whereas the non-powered Domane tops out at 35 mm. Keep in mind those are Trek’s official ratings, which account for a minimum of 6 mm of space all around. Actual maximum tire sizes will almost certainly be bigger, though that’ll depend on your comfort level for potential frame rub. 

trek e bike full carbon

Either way, adding fenders to the hidden front and rear mounts will drop that maximum tire size by 5 mm. 

Naturally, cabling is fully hidden, although the manner in which Trek has gone about it for the new Domane+ isn’t nearly as maddening as it could have been. Lines are run externally on the handlebar before being routing alongside the underside of (not through) the stem and then into ports in the dedicated upper headset cover. Keeping things visually tidy are a cosmetic cover bolted to the bottom of the stem and profiled headset spacers that are also split for easier bar height adjustment. 

Models, availability, and pricing

Trek will offer the new Domane+ in six different build kits, all using the same frame and motor package. There are only three price points, though, with each one offering a SRAM and Shimano variant. Interestingly, all SRAM-equipped bikes will come with 1×12 drivetrains and 40 mm-wide Bontrager gravel tires, while Shimano bikes are set up with 2×12 drivetrains and more tarmac-oriented 32 mm-wide slicks. As usual for Trek’s premium models, Project One custom builds are available in most models, although whichever way you slice it, the prices are awfully high.

Topping the list is the Domane+ SLR 9 eTap P1 (US$13,000 / AU$n/a / £12,900 / €14,500), built with a SRAM Red eTap AXS 1×12 electronic groupset, 25 mm-wide Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37V carbon clinchers, and 40 mm-wide Bontrager GR1 Team Issue gravel tires. Claimed weight is 12.15 kg (26.79 lb).

Sitting alongside that is the Domane+ SLR 9 P1 (US$13,000 / AU$n/a / £12,500 / €14,000), equipped with a Shimano Dura-Ace Di2 2×12 electronic groupset, 21 mm-wide Bontrager Aeolus RSL 37 carbon clinchers, and 32 mm-wide Bontrager R3 Hard-Case Lite slicks. Claimed weight is 11.75 kg (25.90 lb).

The middle child is the Domane+ SLR 7 eTap P1 (US$10,000 / AU$n/a / £9,750 / €11,000) with a SRAM Force eTap AXS 1×12 electronic groupset, 25 mm-wide Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V carbon clinchers, and 40 mm-wide Bontrager GR1 Team Issue gravel tires. Claimed weight is 12.50 kg (27.56 lb).

Alternatively, the Domane+ SLR 7 P1 (US$10,000 / AU$n/a / £9,450 / €10,600) comes with a Shimano Ultegra Di2 2×12 electronic groupset and the same wheel-and-tire package. Claimed weight is 12.20 kg (26.90 lb).

There’s also a slightly less expensive non-Project One Domane+ SLR 7 (US$9,500 / AU$14,500 / £8,900 / €10,000).

Looking for the fancy TQ motor on a “budget”? The Domane+ SLR 6 eTap P1 (US$9,000 / AU$n/a / £8,900 / €10,000) is equipped with SRAM’s Rival eTap AXS 1×12 electronic groupset, 25 mm-wide Bontrager Aeolus Pro 3V carbon clinchers, and 40 mm-wide Bontrager GR1 Team Issue gravel tires. Claimed weight is 12.60 kg (27.78 lb).

If you prefer Shimano, there’s the Domane+ SLR 6 P1 (US$9,000 / AU$n/a / £8,890 / €9,600) with the same wheel-and-tire package, but Shimano’s latest 105 Di2 2×12 electronic groupset. Claimed weight is 12.40 kg (27.34 lb).

Finally, there’s the non-P1 Domane+ SLR 6 (US$8,500 / AU$13,000 / £8,340 / €9,000).

All of the new Domane+ models are supposedly available for ordering and/or purchase starting today.

trek e bike full carbon

Like an ever-present hand on your back

I should first point out in this review that your own experience on the new Domane+ will vary greatly depending on where you are. In the US, the TQ HPR-50 motor is allowed to operate at full power up to 45 km/h (28 mph). However, the cutoff in Europe is just 25 km/h, while most other countries will be at various points in between. I did this test in the United States, so take my commentary with a grain of salt if you live in a different region. 

It’s also important to remember that there are essentially two major categories these days: so-called full-power ones such as what you normally see from brands like Bosch and Shimano, and lightweight models such as this new Domane+. Full-power ones are usually rated for around 250 W or so of power (and around 85 Nm of torque), but keep in mind that’s a nominal figure. Peak outputs are usually much, much higher – often more than 800 W. 

But like other e-bikes in this “lightweight” category, the output of the TQ HPR-50 motor is far more modest. It’s rated at 300 W, but that’s the most you’ll ever get out of it (give or take a few watts). Likewise, maximum torque is capped at 50 Nm. The benefit of that reduced output is a huge weight advantage for the motor and battery itself, plus everything else on the bike can be made lighter as well.

trek e bike full carbon

That all said, while I know opinions are definitely mixed out there with respect to e-road bikes, I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have one heck of a good time testing this thing.

Those full-power e-bikes are undoubtedly fun (so much power!), but the experience can also be so far removed from purely human-powered pedaling that it can almost seem like something other than bike riding. But this Domane+? It’s more like you’ve always got a hand on your back, or the feeling you get when you’re having a really, really (really) good day. 

Trek intends for the Domane+ to feel like a regular road bike, and for the most part, I’m inclined to agree. Power from the TQ motor doesn’t come suddenly like a kick, but more like a building wave. It’s surprisingly subtle, so much so that when you rise out of the saddle to sprint, it almost seems like nothing’s happening – but then you look at your speed and your times, and it’s pretty clear that isn’t the case.

trek e bike full carbon

The way that power comes on is interesting, though. It’s not simply a direct proportion of your own output, but a more complex calculation that also takes other factors into account like speed and cadence. From what I can tell, it’s almost like the system has two goals.

One is helping you maintain your speed. For example, when casually cruising at 150 W (and with the highest-power setting selected), there are times the system is putting out 200 W or more. At other times, it’s kicking out almost nothing. But in either case, how much power the system produces depends on how much help it thinks you need, and it does an uncannily good job of figuring that out. 

It’s also pretty impressive when flirting with that 45 km/h cutoff. One of the main drags heading back into town is mostly flat, but with some small rollers and often just enough of a tailwind that you can really build a head of steam. The Domane+ was more than happy to give me a nudge to get me to that magical 45 km/h mark, and then just barely enough power to let me stay just shy of that figure so as to not trigger the cutoff. And when I did cross that line, the cutoff is remarkably gentle, so much so that I kept peeking at the top tube display to see if the system really wasn’t doing anything.  

trek e bike full carbon

It’s when climbing that the TQ HPR-50 comes into its own. There, the motor doesn’t seem to just want you to maintain your speed; it wants you to feel like a superhero (at least in full-power mode). Needless to say, the feeling of climbing like that is addictive, but it also highlights the power limitations of the system. Say you’re climbing steady at 200 W and the system is kicking out another 300 W. But if you put down more than that, it’s still topped out at 300 W. Granted, that’s still an awful lot more than I can maintain on my own, but proportionally speaking, it’s more noticeable that the system is cutting power than when you’re hitting the speed limit. 

But it’s still fun.

Unfortunately, there’s another limit to that fun, and Trek’s range claims strike me as a bit ambitious (which isn’t surprising). Granted, range claims are always more than a little fuzzy, and the mountainous terrain of my local stomping grounds certainly has a lot to do with that. One ride in particular covered just 38 km (23.5 miles), but almost 800 m (2,600 ft) of elevation gain – all at maximum power assist (have I mentioned how much fun this bike is?). But when I got back home, the battery capacity was down to a middling 27%. Granted, I could have done that same ride on a lower power setting, but where’s the joy in that?

trek e bike full carbon

Here’s where that lightweight vs. full-power thing comes in again. While lightweight models like this Domane+ indeed feel more like non-powered bikes most of the time, there’s no substitute for watt-hours. To put that into perspective, I played around with a Canyon Grail:On gravel e-bike a couple of years ago, which is equipped with a full-power Bosch system and a much bigger battery. One ride I did on that bike covered more than 47 km (29.5 miles) with just shy of 1,200 m (3850 ft) of elevation gain – and there was enough juice left at the end that I almost could have done that ride twice. 

Granted, that bike was more of a bruiser than this Domane+, which does really feel a lot like a good, non-powered road bike in many respects. While it’s fun to blast around in full-power mode, kicking things down a notch or so dramatically extends battery life. There’s some noticeable friction in the TQ motor when pedaling without power at all – more from the bearing seals than parasitic mechanical losses, from what I can tell – but it’s not bad at all, and it certainly pales in comparison to what the motor is putting out.

Aside for the extra weight, the Domane+ genuinely feels pretty normal – certainly enough so that you don’t feel like you have to be in full-power mode all the time. And just as promised, the TQ HPR-50 motor is remarkably quiet so you’re not always audibly reminded what you’re riding, either. There is a whir that grows proportionally louder with pedaling cadence, but even at its loudest, you can barely make it out from the hum of your tires. At higher speeds, it’s drowned out entirely by wind noise. It’s easy to forget about it.

About that speed cutoff

As I mentioned earlier, your experience on an e-road bike will vary greatly depending on where you’re riding it (or perhaps more specifically, where you’ve purchased it). Although I found the Domane+ to be incredibly entertaining, it would have been very different had the motor cut out at 25 km/h as it would in Europe. There, the Domane+ would still be a blast when climbing, or perhaps more as a dedicated light-duty gravel rig with those 40 mm-wide tires. However, I’m not sure how much fun it’d be otherwise (and I know CyclingTips senior tech editor Dave Rome agrees on this one ).

Kudos to Trek and TQ for so thoroughly engineering the motor assist cutoff when you do bump up against that mandated speed limit. Unlike many other e-bikes I’ve ridden, the power drops off gently and seamlessly, rather than feeling so abrupt that you wonder if a wire has suddenly come loose. 

But even then, the 25 km/h cutoff that much of the world would see on this thing also severely cuts into its utility. It’s virtually guaranteed that someone riding a Domane+ wouldn’t be able to enjoy a bunch ride with friends since they’d essentially be dragging an ineffective anchor all the time, and even more gradual climbs would likely be frustrating as the motor continually cuts in and out. It’d still be a boon for longer climbs if you’re ok with taking it a bit slower, and certainly on steeper ones. But aside from that, I’d urge anyone considering their first e-road bike purchase to seriously ponder the effects of that speed limit. 

What about the non-motorized bits?

Handling mostly feels like the regular Domane (and you can expect a review of the new non-powered Domane SLR from me shortly, too), although there are some caveats. I find it interesting that Trek equips the Domane+ models with such a broad spread in tire sizes, as it does affect the steering. I first tried my test bike with the stock 40 mm-wide Bontrager GR1 Team Issue gravel tires, and it was… ok. The steering felt heavy off-center, and the bike wasn’t nearly as eager to initiate turns as I would have expected. But when I switched to 35 mm-wide Schwalbe G-One RS tires, the handling instantly became much more natural, easily diving into turns and flowing through corners as it should. 

trek e bike full carbon

Switching tires also highlighted another downside. Although the stock Bontrager gravel tires are quite grippy on hardpack and tarmac, they’re also surprisingly slow-rolling. With those Schwalbes installed, the bike felt much faster and alive (and I’m sure there’s a positive impact on battery range, too). 

Ride quality improved with the tire change, too, but it still couldn’t completely mask the imbalance between the front and rear ends. Trek’s IsoSpeed feature continues to work brilliantly, offering an incredibly smooth and compliant feel that (at least for me) never feels overly bouncing or intrusive. But even with the bigger Bontragers fitted, the front end is dramatically stiffer. Even medium-sized impacts jar your hands, and trying to attack washboard sections of packed dirt is absolutely brutal. My guess is the massively oversized down tube has a lot to do with this, which is something I’ve noticed on other e-bikes with similar proportions. 

There are some other quirks, too.

One of the TQ display screens is supposed to separately show your output and that of the motor. The motor figure seems believable enough, but the display of your output seems dramatically low. Granted, I didn’t verify this with a separate power meter, but I know what 200 W feels like, and when I see 150 W on the display, something seems off.

trek e bike full carbon

Aside from the tires, I don’t have much to complain about regarding the spec. The 10-44T cassette and 42T chainring offer plenty of range, and shift quality is very good. The jumps between sprockets are still a little bigger than I’d prefer for group road rides, but it’s fine when out solo. And kudos to TQ for powering the rear derailleur directly by the main system battery. It’s clean and convenient, and one less battery to worry about (although that also means if the system is totally, completely dead, you now can’t shift, either). 

The Bontrager finishing kit is generally excellent. The snub-nosed Verse Pro saddle is comfy, the Aeolus RSL 37V wide-format carbon wheels are fantastic, and kudos to whoever at Trek specified this wonderfully grippy and squishy bar tape. But the handlebar underneath that tape? I’m sure someone likes it, but it’s definitely not my cup of tea. The short reach and deep drop are an odd combo, and I was never able to find a remotely comfortable position for my hands in the drops. Thankfully, Trek’s solution for concealed cabling allows you to use any bar with a 31.8 mm clamp diameter.

Super fun, but keep the limitations in mind

Trek’s move to the TQ motor platform is interesting, if for no other reason than its longstanding relationships with other (and much better established) motor suppliers. However, the company clearly sees advantages in what the TQ HPR-50 provides, and after riding it myself, it’s hard to argue with Trek’s decision: it looks better, it’s quieter, and while TQ’s long-term reliability still needs to be proven, the simpler mechanical layout at least bodes well since there’s less to go wrong in there.

As promised, the Domane+ does feel a lot like a regular road bike in a lot of ways, and it’s undeniably fun to ride. But as I mentioned earlier, the experience will vary greatly with where you’re riding it. Although I found the bike incredibly entertaining, it would have been very different had the motor cut out at 25 km/h as it would in Europe. There, the Domane+ would still be a blast when climbing, but I’m not sure how much fun it’d be otherwise.

Either way, those looking for the more visceral thrills of a full-powered e-road bike won’t be blown away by the TQ motor’s modest specifications, but if you’re after more of a traditional feel with a little bit of a boost – and live in the right country – this seems like a bike well worth considering. 

More information can be found at www.trekbikes.com .

trek e bike full carbon

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2023 Trek E-Caliber 9.6 Gen 2 Review

Are you looking for a dependable electric mountain bike that will take you from trails to everyday commuting? The Trek E-Caliber 9.6 Gen 2 is the perfect choice for those who want a fit, lightweight and reliable e-bike.

This top of the line mountain bike brings exciting innovations in power and performance to the market.

It has been designed with specific frame geometries, electronic components and a smart motor system allowing riders to get the most out of every ride.

2023 Trek E-Caliber 9.6 Gen 2 Review

With its latest version, Trek has taken things up a notch! It features an improved battery system and XC frame geometry to still provide comfort even on technical terrain.

In this review of the Trek E-Caliber 9.6 Gen 2 model, we’ll be taking a deep dive into what makes this electric mountain bike such a great option for those looking for reliability, speed, and control on their rides!

We’ll detail all of the features that make this one of the best e-bikes on the market today.

2023 Trek E-Caliber 9.6 Gen 2 Review

This is a great electric mountain bike that is perfect for adventurous riders looking for some key features: long-distance range, powerful torque, and a multitude of advanced components like Shimano Deore XT drivetrain & hydraulic disc brakes.

This review provides an in-depth look at the E-Caliber 9.6 Gen 2 so that prospective buyers can make an informed decision when purchasing this innovative eMTB.

Trek’s 2023 E-Caliber 9.6 Gen 2 is a top-tier electric mountain bike with an OCLV Mountain Carbon main frame & stays, advanced Fazua Ride Trail 50 motor, and 1×12 speed Shimano Deore drivetrain.

2023 Trek E-Caliber 9.6 Gen 2 Review

This bike features cutting edge components and Trek’s upgraded innovative tech to give you an exceptionally lightweight and responsive ride.

Whether you’re taking on steep climbs or descending technical descents, the E-Caliber 9.6 Gen 2 will make any adventure fun and exciting.

2023 Trek E-Caliber 9.6 Gen 2 Review

– OCLV Mountain Carbon main frame & stays: lightweight construction made for efficient pedalling and precise handling

– Fazua Ride Trail 50 motor: reliable performance with up to 250W power output

– 250Wh Fazua Evation battery: allows long rides while maintaining high energy efficiency

– 1×12 Speed Shimano Deore Drivetrain: 10-51t cassette paired to a 32t chainring mounted to a E*thirteen E*spec crankset allowing for smooth shifting on any terrain

– RockShox 35 Gold RL Fork with 120mm Travel: provides optimal suspension adjustment depending on where you ride

– Trek IsoStrut, Fox Performance rear shock: offers a steady, smooth transition over bumps

– 29”x2.40″ Tubeless Ready Bontrager XR3 Team Issue tires mounted to a Kovee Comp 23 wheelset

– Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc

-TranzX dropper post

2023 Trek E-Caliber 9.6 Gen 2 Review

Motor & Battery

The Trek E-Caliber 9.6 Gen 2 is equipped with a mid-motor performance Fazua Ride Trail 50 motor paired with a 250Wh battery.

This gives the rider assistance up to 20 mph when it’s on, and gives zero drag when it’s off over terrain such as sand, gravel, snow, and hills without any difficulty.

Not to mention that this bike offers plenty of power to get you up those steep hills with ease due to its advanced torque technology and no pedal resistance.

2023 Trek E-Caliber 9.6 Gen 2 Review

Frame & Suspension

The OCLV Mountain Carbon main frame & stays on the E-Caliber 9.6 have been designed specifically for mountain biking – standing out from most eMTBs in terms of being lightweight yet extremely rigid for more confident handling on rocky terrain (total bike weight is around 41lbs).

It also uses an adjustable RockShox 35 Gold RL, DebonAir spring fork which allows you to tweak your tuning options depending on what tracks you’re riding through or how much comfort or control you’re after while all other contact points between rider and bike have been tuned effectively towards this purpose too.

2023 Trek E-Caliber 9.6 Gen 2 Review

Drivetrain & Brakes

Moving onto the drivetrain; the Trek E-Caliber has opted for a Shimano Deore XT 1×12 speed setup consisting of a 10-51t cassette and 32t front chainring combined with Shimano Deore 12 Speed shifters installed into the Bontrager Rhythm Comp, alloy handlebars which give very precise gear changes.

As for brakes; 180mm Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes provide extra stopping power both front and rear for an impressive package.

All things considered; there’s really not much else left to say about this eMTB other than that if you’ve made it through reading all about its specs then chances are high that it fits perfectly into your needs/requirements. 

You’ll be getting along with confidence in knowing that top quality engineering went into producing one simply spectacular machine!

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

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2023 Trek Fuel EXe Review | This brand new lightweight e-MTB is the stealthiest we’ve ever tested

The not-so-minor details.

Trek Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS

https://www.trekbikes.com

$13,999 USD

- The near-silent motor performance - Solid chassis with excellent weight distribution - Great geometry and all-round handling - Supportive suspension offers exceptional control at speed - Sleek frame is low on e-bulk - The 9.8 model is surprisingly well priced

- Highly damped RockShox suspension isn't the plushest - TQ motor can lag - Not as light as some of its competitors - Rear axle lever makes noise while riding - Crankset Q-Factor is very wide

Mick & Wil review the Trek Fuel EXe

Following two years of development, the Trek Fuel EXe launches as a brand new electric mountain bike for 2023. Aiming to straddle the gap between the Rail (Trek’s full-powered, big travel e-MTB) and the regular Fuel EX, the Fuel EXe is built around a unique, never-before-seen motor that is claimed to be one of the quietest and lightest on the market. Along with its slim battery and carbon frame, the Fuel EXe is purported to weigh around 18kg in its lightest configuration, which is a good 5kg lighter than the Rail. That puts it into direct competition with the Specialized Levo SL and Orbea Rise ; two bikes that have had a significant head start in the lightweight e-MTB category. So what exactly does the new Trek Fuel EXe bring to the party? And how does its new motor perform on the trail? We’ve been testing it for the past few weeks to find out!

Watch our Trek Fuel EXe review here:

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

Overall it’s a very clean system, and combined with the compact motor and slim downtube, the Fuel EXe does a remarkable job of not looking like an e-MTB.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

An overview of the Trek Fuel EXe

Whereas the Rail is based upon the Slash enduro bike, the Trek Fuel EXe is essentially an electrified version of the Fuel EX trail bike. It features 29in wheels, though it gets a touch more travel with a 150mm fork and 140mm of rear wheel travel courtesy of the ABP four-bar suspension platform.

OCLV Mountain carbon fibre has been employed to construct the Fuel EXe frame, while a two-piece alloy rocker link drives the rear shock via a trunnion bearing mount. Unlike the regular Fuel EX, Rail and Slash that feature Trek’s proprietary Thru Shaft damper, the Fuel EXe relies on a conventional rear shock.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

The compact TQ motor

Powering the Trek Fuel EXe is a brand new and extremely compact motor that has been developed in collaboration with Bavarian company TQ.

TQ has previously been known for producing the 120Nm monster motor found within the Haibike Flyon. Taking the same patented Harmonic Pin-Ring (HPR) mechanism, those clever Germans have shrunken it right down to create what it believes is the lightest and smallest e-MTB motor on the market.

Comprised of just two moving parts, the HPR drive unit doesn’t require a belt or additional cogs, and it spins at an RPM that is three times lower than a conventional motor. Thanks to its simplified construction, the HPR design is claimed to result in fewer operating frequencies, reducing not only the overall decibels produced by the motor, but also lowering the ‘tonality’ (read: annoyance) of the sound.

Despite its compact form, the German-manufactured HPR50 motor delivers a healthy 50Nm of torque and a peak power output of 300W. TQ claims this motor has the highest torque density on the market, while offering seamless power delivery with virtually no lag.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

It’s bloody light too

According to TQ, the HPR50 motor weighs just 1.85kg. That’s lighter than Specialized’s SL 1.1 motor (1.95kg), Fazua’s Ride 60 motor (2.3kg), Shimano’s EP8 (2.6kg) and Bosch’s Performance CX (2.79kg).

To make the most of its weight advantage, the HPR50 motor is paired to a modest 360Wh battery. This is claimed to weigh 1.83kg, which is notably lighter than the 360Wh battery used in the Orbea Rise (2.2kg), and about the same weight as the Specialized Levo SL’s smaller 320Wh battery (1.8kg). The compact battery allows the downtube to be made much slimmer, which results in further weight savings.

Putting the motor and battery together, here’s how the total system weight compares between the new Fuel EXe and its two main competitors;

  • Trek Fuel EXe (50Nm motor & 360Wh battery) – 3.68kg 
  • Specialized Levo SL (35Nm motor & 320Wh battery) – 3.75kg
  • Orbea Rise (60Nm motor & 360Wh battery) – 4.8kg

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

Unlike the Levo SL and the Rise, the Fuel EXe’s battery can be easily removed from the frame without having to drop out the motor. This means you can charge it in the bike, or separately if you don’t have a power point in your shed. Trek claims you can fully charge the battery in just two hours with a fast charger.

Trek will also be offering a 160Wh Range Extender battery that customers can purchase separately for $1,199 AUD. Boosting range by a claimed 40%, the piggyback battery is designed to fit into a standard water bottle cage with the addition of a built-in retention strap for security. Unfortunately the Range Extender battery won’t be available in Australia until late 2022 however.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

Tidy, integrated display

Just like the Specialized Levo and Rocky Mountain Altitude Powerplay , the Trek Fuel EXe features a display that’s integrated directly into the top tube. This 2in O-LED screen forms the control hub for the bike, with a single button that turns the system on and off. This same button is then used to cycle through four pages that display key metrics including battery status, riding speed, average speed, rider power, motor power, and estimated range. Because of its integrated display, the Fuel EXe doesn’t have room for the Knock Block steering limiter, and so omits it entirely.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

A discreet two button controller sits next to the left-hand grip, allowing you to toggle between the Eco, Mid and High assist settings. Holding the top button also engages the Walk mode, which delivers power to the rear wheel when you’re off the bike and pushing uphill.

Bluetooth and ANT+ capability allows the TQ system to pair with your GPS head unit and mobile phone. Further functions can be unlocked via the Trek Central app, which offers navigation and integration with third party apps. You can use the app to tune the motor’s assistance levels, and it’ll also provide you with tyre and suspension pressure recommendations if you’re using a TireWiz and AirWiz.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

Geometry & mullet capability

Without a bulky motor getting in the way, there are few compromises forced upon the suspension layout and geometry of the Trek Fuel EXe. For example, the chainstay length sits at an impressive 440mm, which is quite short given the 29in rear wheel and 2.5in tyre clearance. Trek has also chosen to stick with conventional Boost hub spacing and a 55mm chainline, so there’s nothing funky in terms of standards.

With the Mino Link flip chip set in the Low position, the Fuel EXe features a 64.7° head angle, a 76.7° seat angle and a 38.5mm BB drop. In the High position those angles steepen by 0.5° and the BB lifts by almost 7mm.

In that same High setting, Trek also states that the Fuel EXe can be run as a mullet with a 27.5in rear wheel. This will affect the motor’s output and 25km/h cutoff point however, as there’s currently no way for users to adjust the rear wheel circumference in the TQ system.

trek e bike full carbon

Trek Fuel EXe price & specs

Globally, there will be six Trek Fuel EXe models offered for 2023. Only three of those models will be available in Australia, with prices starting at $9,499 AUD for the Fuel EXe 9.5, and maxing out at $12,999 AUD for the Fuel EXe 9.8 XT.

All Fuel EXe models make use of the same TQ-HPR50 motor, 360Wh battery and OCLV carbon frame. There will be no alloy models for the foreseeable future.

The bike we’ve been testing is the top-end Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS, which in the States will come with a staggering retail price of $13,999 USD (that’s approximately $20,000 AUD!). It features RockShox Ultimate-level suspension, Bontrager Line Pro carbon wheels, a one-piece RSL carbon bar and stem, a SRAM XX1 AXS drivetrain, Code RSC brakes and a Reverb AXS dropper post. While this model won’t be available in Australia, aside from the wireless bits the spec isn’t drastically different from the 9.8 XT. As usual though, our review won’t be focussing a whole lot on the individual components, but rather the important stuff that’s shared throughout the range; the frame, handling, suspension and drive system.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.8 xt

2023 Trek Fuel EXe 9.8 XT

  • Frame | OCLV Mountain Carbon Fibre, ABP Suspension Design, 140mm Travel
  • Fork | RockShox Lyrik Select+, Charger 3 Damper, 44mm Offset, 150mm Travel
  • Shock | RockShox Super Deluxe Select+, RT Damper, 205x60mm
  • Drive Unit | TQ-HPR50, 50Nm Peak Torque
  • Battery | TQ 360Wh
  • Wheels | Bontrager Line Elite 30, OCLV Carbon Rims, 29mm Inner Width
  • Tyres | Bontrager SE5 Team Issue 2.5in Front & Rear
  • Drivetrain | Shimano XT 1×12 w/e*thirteen E*spec Race Carbon 34T Crankset & 10-51T Cassette
  • Brakes | Shimano XT 4-Piston
  • Bar |  Bontrager RSL Integrated, OCLV Carbon, 27.5mm Rise, 820mm Width
  • Stem | Bontrager RSL Integrated, OCLV Carbon, 45mm Length
  • Seatpost | Bontrager Line Elite, 34.9mm Diameter, Travel: 100mm (S), 150mm (M), 170mm (L), 200mm (XL)
  • Saddle | Bontrager Arvada, Austentite Rails
  • Claimed Weight | 18.1kg
  • RRP | $12,999 AUD

2023 trek fuel exe 9.7 slx/xt

2023 Trek Fuel EXe 9.7

  • Fork | Fox Rhythm 36, GRIP Damper, 44mm Offset, 150mm Travel
  • Shock | Fox Float X, Performance Series, 2-Position Damper, 205x60mm
  • Wheels | Bontrager Line Comp 30, Alloy Rims, 29mm Inner Width
  • Tyres | Bontrager XR5 Team Issue 2.5in Front & Rear
  • Drivetrain | Shimano SLX 1×12 w/e*thirteen E*spec Race Alloy 34T Crankset & 10-51T Cassette
  • Brakes | Shimano Deore 4-Piston
  • Bar | Bontrager Line, Alloy, 27.5mm Rise, 780mm Width
  • Stem | Bontrager Elite, 45mm Length
  • Seatpost | TranzX Dropper, 34.9mm Diameter, Travel: 100mm (S), 150mm (M), 170mm (L-XL)
  • Claimed Weight | 19.05kg
  • RRP | $10,999 AUD

2023 trek fuel exe 9.5

2023 Trek Fuel EXe 9.5

  • Fork | RockShox 35 Gold RL, Motion Control Damper, 44mm Offset, 150mm Travel
  • Shock | RockShox Deluxe Select+, RT Damper, 205x60mm
  • Wheels | Bontrager Sealed Bearing Hubs & Alex MD35 Alloy Rims, 34mm Inner Width
  • Drivetrain | Shimano Deore 1×12 w/e*thirteen E*spec Plus 34T Crankset & 10-51T Cassette
  • Brakes | Shimano MT420 4-Piston
  • Bar | Bontrager Rhythm Comp, Alloy, 15mm Rise, 750mm Width
  • Stem | Bontrager Alloy, 50mm Length
  • Claimed Weight | 19.93kg
  • RRP | $9,499 AUD

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

Noise isn’t everything, but geez it’s nice when you’re on a quiet bike. And in this regard, the Fuel EXe sets a whole new benchmark that we expect other brands will attempt to follow over the coming few years.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

Trek Fuel EXe sizing & fit

Deviating from the regular Fuel EX, which comes in six sizes, the Trek Fuel EXe will only be available in four. To suit our 175-178cm testers we chose the Medium, which features a 452mm reach.

We had few complaints with sizing, though the stock handlebars are comically wide at 820mm. Those were promptly chopped down to a more conventional 780mm width, which proved to be a better fit with the 45mm ‘virtual’ stem length.

While the big diameter seat tube is nice and short, the 150mm dropper post limited our freedom of movement when riding down steep descents and along jump trails. We’d prefer to see a 170-180mm dropper on a bike that’s as capable as this.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

Otherwise the Fuel EXe cockpit is a comfortable place to be thanks to the agreeable Bontrager saddle and lock-on grips. The seat tube angle isn’t too steep, with neutral weight distribution that doesn’t put a load of pressure on your hands. There’s plenty of adjustability thanks to the long saddle rails for those who do want to shunt it forward for a more aggressive climbing position.

Where the Fuel EXe definitely feels like an e-MTB is in its Q-Factor. Although the TQ-HPR50 motor is very compact, the fat e*13 carbon crank arms see the pedalling width blow out considerably. We measured the Q-Factor at 195mm, which is wider than any other e-MTB we’ve tested, and around 20mm wider than a regular mountain bike. Many riders will be unfazed by the difference, and indeed the wider stance can improve your overall stability on the bike. However, flat pedal riders will need to be wary when riding through deep ruts, and those with sensitive knees may simply find the Q-Factor to be too wide for comfort.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

Suspension setup

The rear shock on the Trek Fuel EXe is designed to be run with 30% sag, a process that’s made easy thanks to the anodised gradients on the RockShox Super Deluxe.

Jose Gonzalez of Trek’s Suspension Lab explained to us that the Fuel EXe does have a slightly lower leverage rate compared to the regular Fuel EX, and the rear shock has been valved with a medium compression tune. The aim here is to provide more support to handle the additional weight of the battery and motor. Because of the greater damping forces generated by the shock, we trended towards having the compression adjusters backed off from the neutral setting. High-speed was set at minus two clicks (fully open) and the low-speed dial was set at minus one click. Rebound was set a couple of clicks faster than halfway to suit our 68-75kg testers.

Up front is the new 2023 RockShox Lyrik that features the new DebonAir+ spring and Charger 3 damper. RockShox recommends an extra 10psi for this fork when it’s fitted to an e-MTB, but we found this pressure to be too high when paired with the highly supportive Charger 3 damper. We ended up running 10psi less than recommended on the chart, set the rebound on the faster side, ran the high-speed compression at minus one click, and set the low-speed adjuster a few clicks lighter than neutral.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

Trek Fuel EXe weight

Confirmed weight for our Trek Fuel EXe XX1 AXS test bike is 18.6kg, weighed without pedals and with the tyres set up tubeless.

That’s an impressive weight for a full suspension e-MTB, especially when you factor in the aggressive Bontrager tyres, powerful brakes and piggyback shock. Still, it’s not quite as light as some of its competitors;

  • Specialized Levo SL Expert – 17.84kg
  • Orbea Rise M10 – 18.38kg
  • Trek Fuel EXe XX1 AXS – 18.6kg
  • Specialized Kenevo SL Expert – 19.12kg

When you consider that the Fuel EXe is the only bike in that list with carbon wheels and crank arms, as well as a one-piece cockpit, its weight becomes a little less impressive. Given that the Fuel EXe supposedly has the lightest drive system out of the lot, we suspect some of the additional weight is found in the frame itself. That’s no bad thing, especially if it equates to having a stiffer and more robust chassis.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

What does the Trek Fuel EXe do well?

When riding the Trek Fuel EXe the first thing you notice, or more accurately don’t notice, is just how quiet the TQ-HPR50 motor is. No doubt about it, this is easily the quietest e-MTB we’ve ever ridden.

The overall decibel output is low, and the motor’s pitch is significantly less prominent than other motors we’ve ridden. Rather than droning or whining, the TQ-HPR50 motor emits a more discreet sound that’s a bit like a gentle breeze whistling through the trees. Furthermore, there’s no annoying clacking noise on the descents like you’ll find with the latest Shimano and Bosch drive units. The TQ motor does feature an integrated freewheel that allows the drive wheel to disengage from the cranks to minimise drag, but despite this we couldn’t detect any obvious noise when descending on rocky trails.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

Indeed the motor and chassis are well damped, with very little vibration or rattling present. While riding back-to-back with our Canyon Spectral:ON test bike, which features a cavernous downtube and a Shimano EP8 motor, the difference in trail noise was stark. Noise isn’t everything, but geez it’s nice when you’re on a quiet bike. And in this regard, the Fuel EXe sets a whole new benchmark that we expect other brands will attempt to follow over the coming few years.

Initially the muted motor gave the illusion of providing us with less assistance. This is because the power delivery is less obvious than a louder, whinier motor. However, a glance at our average riding speeds had us soon correcting that illusion.

Of course there’s not as much punch compared to the bigger 85-90Nm motors on the market, which is to be expected. During our standardised range test (more on that below), climbing speeds aboard the Fuel EXe hovered around 14km/h, compared to 18km/h on an EP8-equipped bike. This means you’ll be working harder on the Fuel EXe if all your pals are riding on full-powered e-MTBs.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

Still, if you only ever ride singletrack aboard your e-MTB in the Eco or Trail assist settings, the TQ motor is likely to meet your needs. This will especially be the case for lighter and fitter riders, who will find the 50Nm output to be just about perfect for trail riding.

Well-damped suspension & no-fuss handling

It isn’t just the motor that’s quiet either, with the Trek Fuel EXe delivering a nicely damped ride quality that’s complemented by the distinct lack of any slurping noises from the fork’s new Charger 3 damper.

The carbon chassis feels stout and reliable, with no hint of twisting or excessive flex under load. It somehow manages to achieve this sensation without feeling harsh or pingy, and instead offers an accommodating platform that allows you to push it quite hard without fear of being punished for less calculated line choices.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

The top-notch suspension plays into this beautifully when you’re smashing down rowdy descents. The Lyrik’s mid-stroke is particularly good, offering a heap of support with plenty of big hit damping control that encourages you to let off the brakes when gravity takes over.

While the suspension is good, it’s worth acknowledging that the Fuel EXe is not as plush as the Rail. Along with its lower overall weight, it can’t monster-truck down wide-open terrain like the Rail can.

The Fuel EXe takes the upper hand as the trail gets squigglier though, with less exaggeration required from your handling inputs. The smaller and shorter battery puts less weight up towards the head tube, helping to centralise and lower the bike’s centre of mass. Combined with the stout frame, there’s very little understeer present with the Fuel EXe. Compared to bigger and heavier e-MTBs, it never feels like it’s trying to push wide or ride away from you.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

The excellent handling and weight distribution makes the Fuel EXe an easier bike to ride for less experienced riders. For more advanced pilots, the Fuel EXe delivers a thoroughly involving ride quality. Yes it’s still an 18kg bike, but it’s far more playful than the heavier Rail, with the shorter chainstays helping to encourage front wheel popping shenanigans.

It dips into corners without requiring constant persuasion, and it takes to the air well too, maintaining a steady trajectory without making you feel like you’re an unwilling passenger. There’s a heap of support from the suspension for soaking up ill-timed landings when things do go awry, with the shock’s Hydraulic Bottom Out ramping up the travel in the final 20% of the stroke. While the O-ring indicated we’d used full travel on many occasions, not once were we able to detect it while riding.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

What does it struggle with?

Though the progressive RockShox suspension on the Trek Fuel EXe offers bucketloads of high-speed control, it does feel quite aggressively damped on smaller chatter. This is more so the case with the new Lyrik, which hasn’t amazed us with its small-bump compliance, transmitting more feedback through to our hands.

The fork on our test bike has improved noticeably over the first dozen rides as the seals and bushings have bedded in, and there’s no denying the incredible support and control that the Charger 3 damper brings. However, the Fuel EXe hasn’t exactly delivered a cloud-like ride quality, certainly not compared to the floaty Spectral:ON we’ve been testing alongside it. For this reason, we’d be curious to try out the Fuel EXe 9.7 to see whether its Fox suspension package brings about a more supple ride.

We’ll point out that heavier and more aggressive riders may not encounter the same experience as us. And it has to be said that the damping support does make the Fuel EXe a highly responsive and rewarding bike to ride. Still, those eager for the cushiest ride on the chunkiest of terrain will likely be better served by the Rail.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

Overall we’ve been impressed by the usable and natural-feeling support from the TQ-HPR50 motor. It doesn’t spike or surge, offering a nicely progressive power band that makes it predictable and easy to modulate on tricky climbs. The 25km/h cutoff point is about as seamless it gets, and because the motor is so quiet, it’s difficult to tell when the motor has disengaged from the cranks.

It took us a few rides to get used to though, as it can occasionally lag before the power starts to come on. Spinning a lower gear at a slightly higher cadence seems to be its preferred input, though we’ve not found it to be as adept at responding to rapid changes in RPM compared to some other e-MTB motors.

There are options to tune the TQ motor via the Trek Central app, which allows you to tweak the pedal response, assist factor and the maximum power of each of the three settings. Unfortunately the app hasn’t been available prior to the Fuel EXe’s public launch, so we’re yet to play around with those tuning options. We’ll be exploring more of that functionality over the coming weeks of riding.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

What range can you get with the Trek Fuel EXe?

Depending on the terrain, most of our rides on the Trek Fuel EXe have typically racked up 1,000-1,300m of elevation gain over a distance of 30-38km. We’ve mostly utilised the Mid power setting, which strikes a nice balance for general trail riding.

It’s been mighty helpful having the battery status displayed as a percentage, and the remaining ride time and range estimations have proven to be surprisingly accurate. When you do get down to the final 10% on the battery, the motor’s power output automatically lowers a few notches to help conserve what’s left. It doesn’t totally limp home though, retaining a usable level of support all the way down to 0%. When you have finally cooked the goose, the lack of drag through the TQ motor means it’s not an awful experience to ride the Fuel EXe on human power alone.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

To see how the Fuel EXe’s efficiency compares directly to some of the other e-MTBs we’ve reviewed, we subjected it to our standardised range test. This involves the same rider pedalling up a road climb with a 10% average grade, with the motor set to its most powerful setting, before bombing back down a singletrack descent. The idea is to see how much elevation, and how many laps each bike can rack up on a single charge, while keeping the variables as constant as possible.

Here’s how the Fuel EXe faired in our range test;

  • Norco Sight VLT (Shimano EP8, 900Wh Battery) – 2,478m climbing (12.8 runs)
  • Rocky Mountain Altitude Powerplay (Dyname 4.0, 720Wh Battery) – 2,108m climbing (10.9 runs)
  • Cube Stereo Hybrid 160 (Bosch Gen 4, 625Wh Battery) – 1,800m climbing (9.3 runs)
  • Canyon Spectral:ON (Shimano EP8, 630Wh Battery) – 1,570m climbing (8 runs)
  • Orbea Rise (Shimano EP8-RS, 360Wh Battery) – 1,388m climbing (7.2 runs)
  • Specialized Levo SL (SL 1.1, 320Wh Battery) – 1,377m climbing (7.1 runs)
  • Trek Fuel EXe (TQ-HPR50, 360Wh Battery) – 1,312m climbing (6.8 runs)
  • Specialized Kenevo SL (SL 1.1, 320Wh Battery) – 1,053m climbing (5.5 runs)

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

As you can tell by those figures, the Fuel EXe managed to achieve considerably more range than the Kenevo SL, and not just because it has a larger capacity battery. The Fuel EXe is also lighter, comes fitted with faster-rolling tyres and features a more efficient suspension platform.

It didn’t get quite as much as the Levo SL however, and there are reasons for that. The 35Nm output of the Levo SL’s motor is naturally less demanding in terms of its fuel requirements, since it delivers a slower average riding speed. This makes the Fuel EXe a noticeably quicker bike on the climbs, which isn’t accounted for in our range test data.

Given the Orbea Rise has the same capacity battery as the Fuel EXe and a more powerful motor on paper, how did it achieve more range? The simple explanation is the tyres. The Rise M10 we tested was fitted with a lighter and much faster rolling Maxxis Dissector and Rekon tyre combo, which likely accounts for the difference.

Of course it’d be possible to get more range out of the Fuel EXe by fitting lower profile tyres, and you can also utilise the lower assist settings to reduce power consumption. Once the Range Extender batteries are available, Fuel EXe owners will have the opportunity to boost range by up to 40%, which will see it get closer to some of those bigger capacity e-MTBs.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs range extender battery

Component highs & lows

As mentioned earlier, we won’t be dwelling on the components of our Trek Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS test bike. And truth be told, there’s not a lot to be said about the ultra high-end build kit that we haven’t discussed before.

We’ve largely ignored the TireWiz and AirWiz gizmos to begin with, partly because we’ve been experimenting with tyre and suspension setup. However, we’ll be delving more into their functionality now that we have access to the Trek Central app that pairs with the sensors to provide live readings and recommendations.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs bontrager se5

It is worth touching on the new Bontrager SE5 tyres, which are spec’d on each Fuel EXe model. These 2.5in wide tyres feature a Minion DHR II-inspired tread pattern and a dual compound mix that combines a firmer 61a rubber in the centre tread, and softer 50a rubber for the cornering blocks. They’re built upon the Core Strength casing, which combines sidewall protection with a sub-tread reinforcement for puncture protection. The result is a solid, durable and well-damped tyre that isn’t overly stiff on the trail, while also feeling predictable across a broad range of surfaces. They’re decent all-rounders, though they aren’t as tacky as a Maxxis 3C compound or a Specialized T9 tyre. If this were our bike, we’d likely be fitting something softer up front for a little more bite.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

There have been some mild annoyances on our test bike, like the rattling thru-axle lever at the rear dropout. Thankfully this lever can be removed, though you do lose its handy 6mm hex key. That didn’t matter too much as the fork’s steerer tube comes loaded with a Bontrager BITS multi-tool inside. The tool can be a bit tricky to remove, and we also found the bits have a habit of coming loose, allowing them to rattle around inside the steerer. Once tightened up, the Fuel EXe returned to its blissfully silent state.

We love how the TQ display sits flush with the top tube, though it’d be nice to see a clock offered on one of the data screens. The option to display cadence would also be useful, especially while getting accustomed to the TQ motor’s output. The controller offers a nice tactile platform with an audible, yet discreet ‘beep’ whenever you switch assist levels. However, accessing the Walk mode requires you to constantly press down the top button with your thumb, which is awkward when you’re holding onto the bars and pushing the bike up a steep and slippery incline.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

Otherwise all the electrics on the Fuel EXe have proven to be totally functional. Being able to easily remove the battery will be a welcome feature for anyone who needs to charge it separately to where the bike is stored, and we like that the main charge port is located high up on the downtube where it’s protected by a thick rubber plug. Internally there’s also an automatic lock built into the main battery’s connector, basically eliminating any chance of the cable coming loose while bouncing down the trail. Sure they’re only small details, but they’re also clear signs of a well-considered design.

Trek Fuel EXe vs Specialized Levo SL vs Orbea Rise

Over the past year we’ve spent a load of time aboard two of the Trek Fuel EXe’s main rivals; the Specialized Levo SL and Orbea Rise. So how do these bikes compare?

Specialized Levo SL

2022 specialized levo sl expert

Specialized launched the Levo SL at the start of 2020, which shows just how far behind Trek and most other brands have been. No, the Levo SL wasn’t the first lightweight e-MTB to hit the market, but it is the bike that has legitimised the category.

The Levo SL is built around the SL 1.1 motor, which you’ll also find in the Kenevo SL and the Creo e-Road bike. This motor dishes out 35Nm of peak torque, making it considerably less powerful compared to the TQ motor in the Fuel EXe. It’s also much noisier, emitting an annoyingly whiny pitch that takes a while for the rider to tune out. However, the SL 1.1 motor does offer more intuitive power delivery, and it’s also better at handling high-cadence pedalling spurts.

In terms of ride quality, the Levo SL delivers noticeably plusher and more active suspension performance, which makes it a comfortable bike to pedal over choppy terrain. It does have 10mm more travel at the rear, though the suspension kinematic and shock tune also feels lighter compared to the Fuel EXe. We have found it easier to bottom out the Levo SL, and the sensation is harsh with the Float DPX2 shock.

2022 specialized levo sl expert

The Levo SL’s handling is nice and lively, though the front-end steering is a little light with the 51mm fork offset, resulting in some twitchiness at speed. In comparison the Fuel EXe feels better balanced across a range of riding speeds thanks to its solid chassis and well-damped suspension. It’s no doubt the more modern bike of the two, making the two year-old Levo SL feel a little outdated.

It also has to be said that the Fuel EXe kills it on value compared to the Levo SL. The Levo SL Expert we tested features a Fox 36 GRIP2 fork and Float DPX2 shock, alloy Roval wheels, a SRAM GX/X01 drivetrain and Code RS brakes. In comparison, the Fuel EXe 9.8 XT gets a similar level of suspension albeit with a Shimano XT groupset, carbon wheels, carbon cranks and a one-piece carbon cockpit. Despite featuring a higher-end spec, the Fuel EXe sells for $2,100 AUD less , making for a far more appealing package.

orbea rise

The Orbea Rise arrived not long after the Levo SL at the tail-end of 2020, though it took a slightly different tact by taking an off-the-shelf Shimano EP8 motor and de-tuning it to reduce the peak torque output to 60Nm. Orbea also developed its own ‘RS’ firmware for the Japanese motor, which aimed to provide a more natural feel to the power delivery while improving efficiency. This was then paired to a smaller 360Wh battery and a gorgeously svelte carbon frame to deliver complete bike weights from as low as 16.2kg.

The more sensibly-spec’d Rise M10 we tested came in at 18.38kg, though it was fitted with lightweight Maxxis tyres that felt somewhat out of place. With more appropriate rubber, the Rise would likely come in at a similar weight to the Fuel EXe.

While value for money from Orbea is better than Specialized, it’s still not as impressive as the Fuel EXe. The Rise M10 comes with blingy Factory Series Fox suspension, a Shimano SLX/XT drivetrain and alloy Race Face wheels, but sells for two grand more than the Fuel EXe 9.8 XT.

orbea rise

On the trail the Rise is a closer match to the Fuel EXe. The geometry is pretty similar, though the Rise chassis doesn’t feel quite as stout when being pushed hard. This also comes down to the steeper head angle (65.5° vs 64.7°), and it’s also due to the suspension, which is marginally more sensitive off-the-top. It delivers terrific traction and a comfortable ride quality, though it’s not as supportive as the Fuel EXe.

Speaking of suspension, we wouldn’t be opposed to seeing both the Rise and Fuel EXe equipped with 150mm of rear travel like the Levo SL. Sure these are lightweight e-MTBs, but travel is travel, and we’re still talking about 18+kg bikes that are capable of going very fast on rough terrain. That said, any increase might see them encroaching too far into the territory of their bigger travel, full-powered siblings (the Wild FS and Rail).

We found there to be terrific power on tap from the Rise’ EP8-RS motor, and the E-Tube app allows you to tweak the acceleration response and assistance character of each setting, depending on how you want the power to come on. The stock tune works mighty well though, with the Rise being an efficient performer that feels natural and intuitive on the trail, with just a fraction more punch available for scaling crux features on a technical climb.

As mentioned earlier, the Shimano EP8 drive unit is much noisier than the Fuel EXe’s TQ motor, which is basically silent in comparison – both on the climbs and on the descents. We also prefer the clean integration of the TQ system, with its bright and easy-to-read top tube display. The standard display on the Rise is a rather austere junction box that features a couple of tiny LEDs. You can upgrade this to the Shimano EM800 display for an additional fee, though it comes with additional wires that add clutter to the cockpit. It’s plenty functional, just not as tidy as the Fuel EXe.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 xx1 axs

Flow’s Verdict

The Trek Fuel EXe is a terrific example of just how far e-MTB technology has come. Not only is it a fantastic looking bike that’s low on bulk, it also manages to deliver a load of performance out of an impressively lightweight package.

The unique TQ motor is stunningly quiet, and for many riders its 50Nm output will be ideal. Heavier folks and those chasing maximum power with maximum range will still be better served by the Rail and is full-powered Bosch motor. The Rail also features a plusher ride quality that suits brainless bombing down the roughest descents.

In comparison the Fuel EXe is a more involving bike to ride, and it rewards an active pilot that seeks to work and play with the terrain. It’s responsive and fun to ride on twisty singletrack, with the sort of on-point handling and geometry that we expect we’ll be seeing in the next generation Fuel EX.

While the suspension isn’t buttery smooth over smaller chatter, it does produce a heap of support and incredible control at higher speeds. Along with the stout chassis, the Fuel EXe exhibits a well-damped ride quality that shrugs off the big hits and awkward landings despite not having a tonne of travel.

Indeed for those riders who are looking for that hallowed middle-ground between a regular mountain bike and an e-MTB, the Fuel EXe presents one of the most compelling options to date.

2023 trek fuel exe 9.9 electric emtb

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trek e bike full carbon

  • Crosscountry
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2022 Trek E-Caliber 9.6 Gen 2

trek e bike full carbon

A 29″ carbon frame full suspension crosscountry e-bike with upper mid-range components. Compare the full range

E-Caliber 9.6 Gen 2

In Stock: SM, LG, & XL

E-Caliber 9.6 Gen 1

In Stock: MD

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MBR

Apr 2021 · James Bracey

The new Trek E-Caliber 9.9 XTR electric XC mountain bike has got the looks, spec and price to turn heads and could be a glimpse into the e-bike future.

Almost zero negative transition when pushing the E-Caliber past the motor cut-off.

The combined low weight and non-invasive nature of the Fazua motor system creates a marvellously natural feeling e-bike.

Front and rear end offer different performance characteristics.

Range is disappointing.

You could buy a Supercaliber or a Slash, and a Rail e-bike for less than the cost of the E-Caliber 9.9 XTR.

Read Review

Feb 2021 · Ryan Palmer

The Trek E-Caliber is based off the Supercaliber, Trek’s lightest, fastest, World Cup Cross Country race machine.

Electric Bike Review

Price: $11499.99.00 | Model Year: 2021 | One of the lightest and fastest full suspension cross country ebikes available today, weighing just 36.6lbs with pedals. Carbon frame, crank arms, seat post, handlebar, and rims, the bike comes in four sizes. Designed around Boost hub spacing with 15mm and 12mm thru-axles for improved stiffness and support for wider tires. The battery and motor are built into a removable drivepack that can be swapped for an empty storage box so you can ride as a lightweight acoustic bike at just 30.1lbs.

One of the lightest and fastest full suspension cross country ebikes available today, weighing just 36.6lbs with pedals. Carbon frame, crank arms, seat post, handlebar, and rims, the bike comes in four sizes. Designed around Boost hub spacing with 15mm and 12mm thru-axles for improved stiffness and support for wider tires. The battery and motor are built into a removable drivepack that can be swapped for an empty storage box so you can ride as a lightweight acoustic bike at just 30.1lbs.

High quality Fox Factor air shocks front and rear. Unique single pivot strut design in the rear eliminates chain length changes and kickback while keeping weight as low as possible. Both shocks deliver remote lockout through a single lever near the left grip, which allows for efficient transitions from smooth to rough terrain. The bike ships with an additional lever that mounts at the dropper module for an optional seat post dropper.

Quiet Fazua motor is lighter than most competing products but still provides good torque for steeper climbs, up to 55 newton meters. Exceptional 12-speed Shimano XTR drivetrain with enormous 10-51 tooth cassette and narrow-wide chainring to reduce drops on bumpy terrain. The XTR shifters perform very well and the rear hub has additional pawls for near instant pickup when you begin pedaling.

Limited 252 watt hour battery capacity compared to other current-generation products, and the battery must be removed from the frame every time you wish to charge. The locking core for the battery uses the preferred ABUS Plus Code keys (to match with locks) but is on the non-drivetrain side of the bike, which is difficult to reach if the bike is laid down. Relatively high price tag for this premium model, but four other builds give you lots of choice. Very basic display but there's an optional mobile app for more feedback.

E-Mountainbike Magazine

Feb 2021 · Rudolf Fischer

With the E-Caliber 9.9 XTR 2021, Trek have managed to make a lightweight, 16.3 kg eMTB reality. You can find out whether the concept makes sense here.

Light-footed handling

Appealing and customisable motor concept

Look with guaranteed race flair

Limited range of application

Weak trail performance

Missing dropper post

99 Spokes on YouTube

Last updated March 9

Your Guide to Trek Electric Bikes

A comprehensive guide to Trek eBikes that fit your needs on the open road, mountain trails or on the city streets.

your-guide-to-trek-electric-bikes

In This Guide

.css-spn4bz{transition-property:var(--chakra-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--chakra-transition-duration-fast);transition-timing-function:var(--chakra-transition-easing-ease-out);cursor:pointer;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;color:inherit;}.css-spn4bz:hover,.css-spn4bz[data-hover]{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-spn4bz:focus-visible,.css-spn4bz[data-focus-visible]{box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);} what are trek electric bikes, why buy a trek ebike, factors to consider when buying a trek ebike, .css-44x0bk{transition-property:var(--chakra-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--chakra-transition-duration-fast);transition-timing-function:var(--chakra-transition-easing-ease-out);cursor:pointer;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;color:inherit;display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;justify-items:center;-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;}.css-44x0bk:hover,.css-44x0bk[data-hover]{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;}.css-44x0bk:focus-visible,.css-44x0bk[data-focus-visible]{box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);} .css-1p4th1k{border-radius:4px;width:50px;-webkit-flex:0;-ms-flex:0;flex:0;border:3px solid #ff0;margin-right:10px;} trek verve+ 3 lowstep, trek domane+ lt e-bike, what are trek electric bikes.

If you are in the market for a new eBike, you’ve probably heard of Trek bicycles . Founded in 1976, Trek is a leading bicycle manufacturer and distributes bikes in over 90 countries around the globe. Headquartered in Waterloo, Wisconsin, Trek bikes are manufactured in Europe and Asia. 

Through extensive R&D from its world-class professional road and mountain bike teams, Trek designs and builds its consumer eBikes with the most innovative technology available in the industry. Trek’s eBike lineup includes an extensive selection of road, mountain, city, utility, and cruiser bikes that suit anyone who wants to ride recreationally on the road or trail, commute to work or carry groceries and kids around town.

Reputation and Quality - With 50 years of experience, Trek has a solid reputation for building quality, dependable eBikes that are equipped with good componentry. Their batteries, motors, and controllers are certified for safe operation and charging in your home.

Model Variety - Trek offers an extensive selection of performance road and mountain eBikes, city and utility eBikes, and hybrid and recreational bikes in a variety of sizes and colors.

Innovation - Trek strives to be on the leading edge of the bike industry and puts innovative technology into all levels of its bike lineup.

Warranty and Customer Service   - Through dealers and customer service, Trek provides personalized service to ensure that you get the bike that’s correct for you and that it works for years with minimum issues. 

More Expensive - Trek eBikes are not the lowest-priced options on the market. Do you prioritize price over component specs and feature innovation? You may look to other eBike brands that deliver more value.

Dealer Sales Only - New Trek eBikes are only available through authorized dealers with no options of direct-to-consumer. On the plus side, you will receive proper fitting and have the peace of mind that your eBike was assembled by a certified mechanic.

Are you ready to learn more about Trek eBikes? Let’s get started!

product image

.css-1hnz6hu{position:static;}.css-1hnz6hu::before{content:'';cursor:inherit;display:block;position:absolute;top:0px;left:0px;z-index:0;width:100%;height:100%;} Trek Verve+ 3 Lowstep

The Verve+ 3 Lowstep is Trek’s take on the classic city bike. The lightweight, step-through frame and comprehensive set of accessories make the Verve+ 3 Lowstep a turn-key eBike for your city riding needs.

10 Reasons to Buy the Trek Verve+ 3 Lowstep

The Trek Verve+ 3 Lowstep e-bike comes with powerful disc brakes that provide maximum safety.

This e-bike is equipped with a mid-drive motor to help riders easily ascend any incline without the need for strenuous physical effort.

Its geometry provides great stability and comfort when cycling, allowing riders to remain in an upright position while their body weight is evenly distributed on the bike's frame.

The design of the Trek Verve+ 3 Lowstep e-bike is sleek and modern, adding a stylish touch to your cycling experience.

To ensure a smoother ride, it has a suspension seat post that can absorb shocks from uneven terrain, reducing stress on the joints.

For added protection against punctures, the Trek Verve+ 3 Lowstep e-bike comes with tough, puncture-resistant tires.

Its lightweight aluminum frame makes the bike easy to maneuver.

The price tag of the Trek Verve+ 3 Lowstep e-bike is also very affordable compared to other electric bikes in its class.

With its wide range of sizes and frames tailored specifically for different heights and body types, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your needs.

This amazing bike also comes with high-quality accessories, including rear lights.

2 Reasons Not to Buy the Trek Verve+ 3 Lowstep

The Verve+ 3 doesn’t include any front suspension, meaning riders won't benefit from the added shock absorption.

The display included with this bike is nothing special, just featuring basic functions such as speed and battery level indicators.

The Bottom Line

The Trek Verve+ 3 Lowstep’s traditional city bike design and geometry make it ideal for city commuting and light utility use. The low step frame makes it easy to get on and off, no matter what you are wearing. It’s generously equipped with all the accessories that you’ll need to tackle your daily errands in all conditions.

product image

The Trek FX+ 2 eBike is a no-frills upgrade for your city commute or leisure rides when you want an electric boost. The FX+2 is Trek’s more economical eBike offering.

11 Reasons to Buy the Trek FX+ 2 eBike

The Hyena Rider Assistant app optimizes the bike's performance to meet your needs.

The bike's rear hub motor is quiet so you can enjoy a natural ride that feels like a traditional bicycle with an added boost.

The PAS system has three optimized settings that provide noticeable variation in assistance.

The 120-lumen headlamp offers excellent visibility and the fenders help you stay dry in wet conditions.

The kickstand mount keeps the bike upright and accessible, making it easy to grab and go.

The hydraulic disc brakes perform well even in heavy rain, ensuring consistent stopping power in various weather conditions.

The rear rack mount lets you easily transport items while commuting or running errands.

The loud bell ensures you can alert other riders or pedestrians to your presence for added safety.

It’s incredibly lightweight at just 40 lbs for effortless handling and maneuverability.

It comes in four sizes and three color options.

It has a range of 70 miles with the range extender battery system.

2 Reasons Not to Buy the Trek FX+ 2 eBike

The LED display for battery status and pedal assist mode feels outdated compared to modern LCDs.

The lack of quick-release wheels requires tools for their removal.

The Trek FX+2 gives you the essentials for everyday city commuting. Its lightweight,  understated design is excellent for riders who need to carry their bike and don’t want to attract attention. It lacks some features found on more expensive bikes, but the FX+2 provides extra assistance for daily utility and leisure rides.

The Trek Dual Sport+ is a versatile and well-designed electric bike that delivers a comfortable and stable riding experience on both the road and trail. It is lightweight and durable, making it perfect for commuting or light touring.

6 Reasons to Buy the Dual Sport+

Well-designed and versatile electric bike

An affordable and reliable option

Excellent brakes and dependable specification list

Lightweight and durable hybrid bike

Small but effective motor and torque sensor

Stealthy appearance with streamlined design elements

3 Reasons to Buy the Dual Sport+

The absence of an integrated light system

Puncture-resistant tires

Non-replaceable internal battery may limit range without an external range extender battery

The Dual Sport+ electric bike is a well-designed and versatile option that offers great value for its price. With excellent brakes, a dependable specification list, and a small but effective motor, it provides a reliable and enjoyable ride.

product image

The Trek Domane+ LT is a performance road bike with electric assist that is perfect for long miles on pavement or gravel.

5 Reasons to Buy the Trek Domane+ LT

The Bontrager Arvada Elite saddle promises a comfortable ride

Tubeless tires on quality tubeless-read wheels

Full carbon suspension is extremely durable and stable

Powerful electric drive system with a touch remote

Good performance on steep climbs

3 Reasons Not to Buy the Trek Domane+ LT

The pedal assist will cut off after reaching a speed of 20 mph, which might not give the best experience to riders looking for a fast ride.

The battery life can be a bit short if you want to have a full-day adventure.

Only one frame size is available, but it might not be suitable for all riders.

The Trek Domane+ LT can give you an authentic road bike experience, thanks to the quality carbon frame, tires suitable for road and gravel, and hidden electronic drivetrain system.

The Trek Allant+ is a powerful, versatile, and capable electric bike perfect for speedy commutes, sweat-free errands, and off-road adventures. It offers a hill-flattening boost and a range that shrinks distances, making it suitable for various ride use cases such as neighborhood cruising, urban commuting, and family leisure. 

5 Reasons to Buy the Allant+

It is a high-quality ebike with ample range, a powerful motor, and a comprehensive parts package.

It is a comfortable and capable commuter ebike with reliable handling.

This fast commuter e-bike has sharp and reliable handling and ample speed.

The Allant+ features high-quality components, a powerful motor, and intuitive connectivity.

The Allant+ is a high-quality bike with effective weight distribution, an impressive motor, a smooth ride, and good components.

3 Reasons Not to Buy the Allant+

The Trek Allant+ has an expensive price point that may not provide the best value for every customer.

The charging port could benefit from a more accessible position.

Low-speed steering and suspension could be improved.

The Trek Allant+ line of electric bikes offers top-notch quality, impressive performance, and a comprehensive set of features. While they may have a higher price point, the high-quality components and intuitive connectivity make them a great investment for those seeking an enjoyable commuting or casual riding experience.

The Trek E-Caliber is a lightweight electric mountain bike that combines traditional cycling agility with the benefits of electric assistance. With its nimble and efficient ride, the E-Caliber is accessible to a wide range of riders and offers a versatile design that appeals to both professionals and casual riders. 

7 Reasons to Buy the E-Caliber

The Trek E-Caliber is praised for its integration of the Fazua Evation assist system, which provides electric assistance while maintaining traditional cycling agility.

The bike is optimized for weight and performance, potentially setting a new standard for eMTB design.

It offers a nimble and efficient ride, making it accessible to a wide range of riders.

The E-Caliber features a lightweight carbon frame and quality components.

The bike has a versatile design and appeals to both professional and casual riders.

The iso-strut suspension guarantees a comfortable and adjustable ride.

The E-Caliber is customizable, allowing customers to tailor it to their specific needs.

4 Reasons Not to Buy the E-Caliber

The E-Caliber suspension may not provide enough off-road performance and its aggressive geometry may limit its application.

The high price tag of $11,999 may deter some potential buyers.

There are other e-bikes in the same price range that offer more.

Despite its lightweight and quality components, the E-Caliber may not be suitable for longer rides.

The Trek E-Caliber is a groundbreaking eMTB that offers the perfect blend of electric assistance and traditional cycling agility. With its optimized weight and performance, it sets a new standard for eMTB design. The nimble and efficient ride, along with the Fazua Evation assist system, ensures a superior riding experience with minimal resistance.

The Trek Powerfly FS 4 is a full-suspension electric mountain bike designed for rugged trail adventures. It features a durable Alpha Platinum Aluminum frame and is equipped with a powerful Bosch Performance Line CX drive system. Despite its high performance, the Powerfly FS 4 remains affordable, providing excellent value for money.

9 Reasons to Buy the Powerfly FS 4

The Trek 2022 Powerfly FS 4 features a suspension system, making it suitable for mountain biking and off-road adventures.

The bike utilizes Trek's Alpha Platinum Aluminum frame, ensuring durability and strength.

Equipped with the reliable Performance CX mid-mounted motor by Bosch, providing efficient and powerful assistance while riding.

The integrated battery is removable, allowing for easy charging and replacement.

The bike offers additional features ready for customization, giving users the ability to personalize their riding experience.

The new Trek Powerfly FS is versatile and high-performing, suitable for various terrains and riding styles.

The e-bike is equipped with top-of-the-line hardware, ensuring quality and reliability.

Despite its high quality, the Trek Powerfly FS is considered affordable, offering value for money.

The design of the bike allows for great off-road handling, providing a thrilling and enjoyable riding experience.

1 Reason Not to Buy the Powerfly FS 4

The bike's small display screen might be inconvenient for some users, potentially affecting visibility and ease of navigation.

The Trek Powerfly FS 4 is a top-performing e-bike that offers durability, versatility, and value for money. With its suspension system and strong frame, it's perfect for off-road adventures. The reliable motor and removable battery provide efficient assistance and easy charging. Plus, the customizable features allow users to personalize their riding experience. While the small display screen may be a drawback for some, overall, the Powerfly FS 4 delivers a thrilling and enjoyable ride.

The Trek Rail 9.7 is a long-travel carbon electric mountain bike that offers impressive performance and a solid distance range. With its powerful Bosch motor and 625Wh battery capacity, it provides powerful uphill momentum and inspires confidence on descents.

4 Reasons to Buy the Rail 9.7

Impressive distance range with the powerful Bosch motor and a solid 625Wh battery capacity

Powerful uphill momentum and confident descent

Good geometry and an enjoyable ride

Surprisingly plush and comfortable

4 Reasons Not to Buy the Rail 9.7

Slightly quirky display and controls

Less smooth start-off of the motor

Placement of the water bottle holder

The aesthetic of the remote (not visually appealing)

The Rail 9.7 offers an impressive distance range and powerful performance, making it a great option for those looking for an enjoyable and comfortable ride. While there may be some minor quirks and budget-oriented componentry, overall, this enduro eMTB delivers on its promises and provides a solid choice for riders.

The Fuel EXe 9.8 GX AXS is an evolved e-mountain bike from Trek. Built on a carbon fiber chassis, it offers a light, stiff, and nimble ride.

13 Reasons to Buy the Fuel EXe 9.8 GX AXS

Versatility for different terrains

A great option for both park rides and long trail rides

Impressive build quality

Sleek design for a smooth ride

Sturdy build, high-quality components, and excellent ride quality

Electric-assist has powerful performance

Silent operation and instant drive unit engagement

Reduced fatigue and increased agility compared to full-fat eMTBs

Sturdy frame and supportive suspension for an efficient and confident ride

Efficient climbing performance and powerful brakes

It has a short rear end for a playful ride quality

Impressive natural ride feel and lightweight build

Potential long-term durability and performance

3 Reasons Not to Buy the Fuel EXe 9.8 GX AXS

Somewhat expensive compared to some competitors

It has areas for potential improvement

Heavier and lacking small-bump suppleness

The Fuel EXe 9.8 GX AXS is a versatile and high-quality micromobility vehicle that delivers an exceptional ride experience. With its sleek design, sturdy build, and powerful electric-assist performance, it's a top choice for riders looking to tackle different terrains, from park rides to long trail adventures. The reduced fatigue and increased agility make it a joy to ride, while the supportive suspension and efficient climbing performance ensure a confident journey. Despite the somewhat higher price tag, this micromobility vehicle offers long-term durability and performance, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a reliable and enjoyable ride.

The Trek Fetch+ 2 is a compact electric cargo bike designed to haul a lot while being fun and simple to use. With the powerful boost of the Bosch smart system, it can easily carry up to 175 lbs of cargo, making it perfect for families.

5 Reasons to Buy the Fetch+ 2

The Trek Fetch Plus 2 electric bike offers great capacity for carrying children or cargo.

The bikes are highly customizable, allowing for the addition of child seats and various compartments for cargo.

They are equipped with Bosch electric bike motors, known for their quality and reliability.

The removable Bosch batteries can be fully charged in six hours, providing a convenient power source.

The Fetch Plus 2 cargo bike offers a minimalist design with a relatively lightweight, making it suitable for urban riding.

4 Reasons Not to Buy the Fetch+ 2

The Trek Fetch Plus bikes have a hefty price tag, which may not be accessible to all potential buyers.

While the bikes are designed for carrying cargo, they may not be suitable for users who don't have a need for that specific functionality.

The customization options and additional accessories may add to the overall cost of the bike.

The bikes are primarily designed for short city rides, so they may not be the best choice for long-distance or off-road riding.

The Trek Fetch+ electric bikes are an excellent choice for those seeking versatile micromobility options. With their impressive carrying capacity and customizable features, they provide a reliable and convenient solution for transporting children or cargo.

The Trek Fetch+ 4 is an electric cargo box bike that offers a high carrying capacity and the ability to connect with family members while providing a sustainable transportation alternative. With the powerful boost of the Bosch smart system and best-in-class handling and stability, this bike can confidently carry up to five children.

6 Reasons to Buy the Fetch+ 4

Customizable options for the Trek Fetch+ 4 electric cargo bike.

Significant carrying capacity, with the Fetch+ 4 able to carry up to 200kg and carry up to five children.

Priced comparably to leading electric cargo bikes.

High cargo carrying capacity and durable components make the Fetch+4 ideal for families.

Premium Bosch powertrain systems, a trusted brand in electric bike technology, offer high performance power and sustainable transportation alternatives.

Potential savings from eliminating recurring costs related to car ownership.

4 Reasons Not to Buy the Fetch+ 4

The design appeal of the Trek Fetch+ 4 falls short compared to rivals.

The Trek Fetch+ 4 lacks a throttle, which may be a disadvantage for some riders.

Customizable options for the Trek Fetch+ 4 is not as extensive as other brands.

The cost of the bikes is high, which may be a deterrent for some potential buyers.

The Trek Fetch+ series offers customizable options and impressive carrying capacity, making them perfect for families and those in need of a reliable cargo bike. With Bosch electric bike motors and high cargo-carrying capabilities, these bikes provide sustainable transportation alternatives and potential savings from eliminating car ownership costs.

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Review: Trek's 2023 Fuel EX-e Is Light & Nearly Completely Silent

Trek Fuel EX-e 9.9 XX1 AXS Photo Dave Smith

Cool Features

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. How we test gear.

trek fuel exe

Trek’s Fuel EXe Is the Best e-Mountain Bike You Can Buy Right Now

Light, discrete, and quiet with a great chassis, the new EXe proves that more doesn’t make e-bikes better.

TQ HPR50 Motor

Motor noise, battery and range, display, remote, and apps, frame details, models and prices.

The Takeaway: Motor or no motor, the Fuel EXe is one of the best mountain bikes on the market right now.

  • All new EX carbon frame with 140mm rear travel and 150mm fork
  • Small and light (1850 grams) TQ HPR50 with maximum 50Nm torque
  • 360Wh in-frame battery. Optional piggyback 160Wh range extender
  • 2-5 hour claimed ride range from in-frame battery
  • Six models priced $6,500 to $14,000

Weight: 40.9 lbs. (medium, 9.9 XX1 AXS)

Price: $14,000 (9.9 XX1 AXS)

trek fuel exe

Trek kicks off a big week of mountain bike launches here at Bicycling with the introduction of their latest e-mountain bike: The Fuel EXe. While the usual e-bike story is about more power, battery, and range, the EXe falls into the intriguing e-light category where the story is less.

The EXe is lighter, a lot lighter—10 or so pounds lighter—than a full-power e-bike because it uses a less powerful motor requiring a smaller battery. That makes it appealing to riders who want an e-bike but also want the feel and handling of an unpowered e-bike. It should also interest lighter and less powerful riders put off by riding a 50-pound eMTB. As I found out, being less powerful doesn’t mean less fun. The EXe proves that the old Less Is More axiom works for e-bikes too.

The Fuel EXe arrives in shops worldwide, in limited numbers, today.

Ride Impressions

Most of the e-bikes I ride are motorized versions of a brand’s existing unpowered frame platform, which there’s a better-than-good chance I’ve already ridden. However, with this new Fuel EXe, Trek flipped the script on me because the powered version came first.

trek fuel ex e

My test bike was the most expensive model: The $14,000 9.9 XX1 AXS in Baja Yellow. The parts were, as you would hope for a bike this expensive, flawless. I did notice the RockShox Reverb AXS dropper on this post seemed smoother and less sticky than other examples of this post I’ve tried, perhaps due to some running changes on the assembly line. The Bontrager SE5 Team Issue tires are the best Bontrager trail tires I’ve ever ridden, and I feel like the company has a rubber compound that lets them compete with the best on the market. Also impressive were the 2023 RockShox parts which are a step forward in smoothness for the brand, and operate silently.

One thing not present on my bike was Trek’s AirWiz suspension pressure sensors on the fork and shock, or the Quarq TyreWiz tire pressure sensors on the wheels. These are a stock feature on the model I tested, but Trek’s PR team decided to remove them from my review bike after the issues I had with the sensors on the Rail test bike in October . Riders who order the new EXe through Trek’s Project One customization program have the option to remove the sensors.

trek fuel ex e

While much of this bike is new to me, the Fuel EXe is such a harmonious package that I got comfortable with it very quickly, and it wasn’t much longer before I was in love with this bike. In fact, I’m going to declare that this is one of the best mountain bikes—powered or unpowered—I’ve recently ridden. I can’t wait until the unpowered version of this frame lands because I think it will kick ass.

Everything makes this bike good, but I’ll start with the frame. The chassis has a modern fit and balanced handling that lets the rider climb comfortably and let it run on the descents, yet it’s still agreeable on mid-speed and flatter trails. There’s nothing particularly unique or different about the EXe’s geometry numbers, which I think is the point: It finds an equilibrium that works well on many kinds of climbs and flavors of descent without neglecting that some trails are flatter. If anything, it’s snappier and livelier—things I don’t think I’ve ever said about an e-mountain bike—than the average 140/150mm bike, and enough that I legitimately forgot that I was on an e-bike at times.

trek fuel ex e

I sometimes forget I was on an e-bike because the motor is so quiet and well-mannered. I couldn’t hear it over my breathing on climbs, and it’s so smooth that there are almost no vibrations or buzzing to feel in the frame. Plus, it is entirely free of clunking and lash.

It’s the most natural feeling motor I’ve yet ridden, by which I mean it doles out the power in an approximately human way. It is also so quick that there’s almost no lag between when you start and stop pedaling; the motor power flows in and out. It legitimately feels like you’re just having a really great day when you pedal this bike. I felt less surging and pushing from this motor, even in the highest assist mode, than I’ve experienced from any other e-bike motor system.

The EXe’s motor feels exceptionally well-tuned, and the experience is refined, eclipsing even Specialized’s excellent motors. Some of this smoothness likely results from the TQ’s lower torque. By keeping the system quiet, the bike tricks the brain a bit—quieter is perceived as smoother. But riding the EX- was such a pleasant experience that I never missed the extra boost of a “full power” e-bike.

trek fuel ex e

I feel like this e-lite mountain bike might provide a superior experience for many riders, even committed e-bike riders. Yeah, it’s not going to hurl you up the climbs the way a full-power e-bike will. Yes, I did wish for more range—if only because riding the EXe is so damn fun—but there’s enough power and range here to offer some substantial assist, yet the bike remains agile and doesn’t punish the upper body on the descents. It is an e-bike experience that doesn’t overwhelm the mountain bike experience. The experience of transitioning from a mountain bike to a full-power e-bike is pretty extreme and can be jarring.

Full-power e-bikes are a lot: A lot of power and a lot of weight. Many riders adapt and are completely happy with their full-power e-bikes. But if you’ve tried a full-power e-bike and thought it was a bit much, the EXe will be a revelation.

Based on Strava, even with the EXe’s assist, I was still slower on the climbs and descents than my town’s fastest pro riders. I wasn’t even as fast as my best unassisted times from when I was in my best riding shape. But I could ride quicker and with less effort than I can (at my current weight and fitness) compared to an unassisted bike. It lessened—but did not eliminate—the pain and significantly increased the fun in a quiet, sleek, and easy-to-ride package. Which, to me, are the hallmark of an extraordinary bike.

trek fuel ex e

For the new EXe motor, Trek turned to a new supplier: TQ Group. Like Bosch, Brose, and Mahale, TQ’s e-bike division is a small part of a large and diverse company with extensive knowledge in electronics. Though they may not have the recognition of its competitors, this isn’t TQ’s first foray into e-bike motors: The Flyon motor used for some Haibike models was a TQ product. But while the Flyon was noteworthy for its massive 120Nm of torque, the HPR50 maxes out at 50Nm (300 watts maximum assist), putting the Fuel EXe into the growing e-light category of mountain bikes. Other e-light trail bikes include Specialized’s Levo SL and Orbea’s Rise.

With nearly half the maximum torque, these e-light bikes don’t have the sheer thrust of a full-power e-MTB. But less powerful motors are smaller and lighter, and they draw less juice so that the bikes can use smaller and lighter batteries. And that’s why this EXe is easily 10 pounds lighter than a comparable full-power e-bike. For example, the full-power Trek Rail I reviewed last October weighed 51.3lb. This EXe with a similar build weighs 40.9 pounds.

The HPR50 is a light (1830 grams) and small e-bike motor because of its architecture. The “harmonic pin ring” system allows a concentric profile without belts and with fewer gears, packaging the entire unit into a shell that looks more like an oversized standard bottom bracket than the typical e-bike motor. Rather than explaining the design, the hypnotic animation provided by TQ below illustrates it nicely.

preview for Trek Fuel EXe TQ Motor Exploded View

One more stat I want to highlight is TQ’s claimed “135mm Q-Factor.” While this is true, it’s the Q-factor of the motor without cranks which, last I checked, is hard to pedal. With my test bike’s e*thirteen e*spec Race Carbon cranks installed, I measured an approximate 195mm Q-Factor, which is quite a bit wider than a Shimano EP8 motor’s 177mm.

According to Trek’s launch materials, they spent a lot of time analyzing and quantifying e-bike motor noise. And while I don’t consider any of the current mid-drive e-bike motors loud, they all make noticeable—and not particularly pleasant—noise. Trek claims that when measured in an anechoic chamber, their motor’s tonality across a range of cadence speeds is four to five times lower than other e-bikes, registering as “barely perceivable.”

After many hours of riding the EXe, I agree that barely perceivable is an apt way to describe the motor’s noise. It’s so quiet that it barely registers above (and most of the time is masked by) tire noise and breathing. And not only is it hushed, but the noise you can hear is a much lower pitch—almost like a cat’s happy purr—than the high-pitched whine of most e-bike motors.

So quiet is the HPR50 motor that I could ride the EXe in a group without others knowing I was on an e-bike. Unless they got a good look at the bike from the non-drive side or happened to see the discrete handlebar remote (which I tried to cover with my hand as much as possible), they assumed it to be a non-assist bike. To make it even stealthier, I covered the top tube display with electrical tape to hide it, covered the top tube logo with stickers, and rode trails that are closed to e-bikes. Of course, I can’t suggest you do the same, but no one I rode by gave me or the bike a second look.

The EXe has a 360 Wh internal battery, which is enough for “two to five hours” of riding, according to Trek. While frustratingly vague, it’s accurate as many factors influence battery range. Riding in the “mid” assist mode, I did a 25-mile ride with almost 2500 feet of climbing. The ride took two hours and 40 minutes and finished with under 30 percent battery remaining, so I think the two-to-five hour estimate is accurate.

If you want more range (or less range anxiety), the EXe offers a couple of options. One is a 160Wh piggyback battery ($660, 900 gram claimed weight) that fits into the bottle cage. You’ll lose the ability to put a water bottle on the bike, but it provides 40 percent more range. One clever thing about this range extender is you can charge both it and the bike’s in-frame battery through a charge port in the extender. The other option is to buy a second in-frame battery ($750). You can easily remove the in-frame battery from the frame, so hot swaps on the trail are possible if you’re willing to carry a spare 1835g battery in your pack.

Claimed charge time for the 360Wh battery is a relatively short two hours, while the 160Wh piggyback charges in an hour.

trek fuel ex e

The EXe has a two-inch OLED flush-mounted in the top tube with four data lines and the system’s on/off switch. A remaining charge graphic and assist mode indicator always show, and you can scroll through four data screens. The most helpful are the ones that display the remaining battery charge as a percentage and estimated ride time remaining, and remaining range in miles and estimated ride time remaining. The other data screens show rider and bike power and speed. In addition, the TQ system broadcasts information on an ANT+ channel, so you can also see information on compatible GPS cycling computers.

The TQ handlebar remote is very discrete. Use it to select one of three assist modes (Eco, Mid, High), to shut off all assistance, or activate walk mode.

Riders may access further information and settings through the new Trek Central app for iOS and Android. The app can customize all three assist modes. However, assist-system firmware updates must be done by a Trek dealer.

trek fuel exe

The Central app also offers ride tracking/recording (with automatic export to Strava and Komoot) and navigation with battery charge remaining at the end of the trip. It also has a range cloud that shows how far you can ride if you want to make a round trip and how far you can ride one way with a full charge.

The Central app also provides suspension and tire pressure setup information based on rider weight and recommended suspension damping settings. If your bike has Trek’s TireWiz or AirWiz electronic pressure sensors, the app also connects to those devices.

trek fuel ex e

The EXe is the debut of Trek’s all-new carbon frame platform. Though the e-bike version is the first to launch, I’d bet there’s an unassisted version of this same frame coming soon. It is a mid-travel trail frame with 140mm of rear travel and complete models equipped with 150mm forks (it can take up to a 160mm fork). In addition, Trek seems to be heading in a new styling direction with the EXe, as the frame shapes and graphics seem crisper yet more subtle than previous mountain bikes.

The rear suspension is Trek’s familiar ABP (Active Braking Pivot) design. ABP is a single pivot system with a floating brake arm, allowing the nerds to fine-tune the bike’s anti-squat (pedaling) and anti-rise (braking) characteristics more than they could by using a more traditional single-pivot design. Trek says the kinematics work with either air or coil shocks and states that all coil shocks from Fox and RockShox are compatible with the EXe.

All frame sizes fit a 20-ounce water bottle inside the front triangle, and there’s a cargo mount under the top tube, too. Hoses and housing run internally (of course), but this frame does not use Trek’s Knock Block system to limit bar rotation. It got sacrificed to make room for the in-frame display.

trek fuel exe

The EXe’s geometry is pretty average for a modern 140/150mm travel trail bike. The highlights are two geometry positions (via a chip in the rocker link yielding a 64.7- or 65.2-degree head angle/76.7- or 77.2-degree effective seat tube angle) and chainstays that measure about 440mm.

While complete bikes come with 29-inch wheels, Trek says the bike is compatible with a 27.5” rear wheel.

Trek recommends using the high geometry position with the smaller-sized wheel fitted. However, it cautions that “the smaller wheel circumference will affect the accuracy of the speed reading and cannot be adjusted.”

Trek Fuel EXe 9.5

Fuel EXe 9.5

There are six EXe models—starting with the $6,500 Fuel EXe 9.5 and topping out with the $14,000 EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS. All use the same carbon frame, TQ motor, and 360Wh battery, but the rest of the build changes accordingly to price. Trek provided complete bike weights for the line, which I’ve pasted below, and you’ll also find build highlights. Full component package details are available on Trek’s website.

trek fuel exe

Notably, the most expensive EXe is not the lightest bike in the lineup. The $13,000 Shimano XTR build and the $8,700 and $9,200 Shimano XT bikes are lighter weight than the range-topping $14,000 SRAM XX1 AXS-equipped model. Also, the least expensive 9.5 model (remember: same frame, motor, and battery for all models) costs $7,500 less than the 9.9 XX1 AXS build but only weighs 3.3(ish) pounds heavier. To put it another way, the 9.5 is 53.6 percent cheaper than the 9.9 XX1, yet only eight percent heavier.

trek fuel exe

Personally, the best build in the line is the XT model. It’s under 40 pounds (claimed), has the carbon rims, comes with tough and sticky SE tires, and has the fancy one-piece carbon bar/stem of the most expensive builds. It has all of this while carrying a sub-five figure price tag.

Lastly, on the SRAM AXS -equipped bikes (like my review sample), the rear derailleur gets power from the bike’s battery via an “extension cord” pack. This pack clips on in place of the standard AXS battery and connects to the bike’s wiring harness. If you completely drain the e-bike battery, there is still enough juice left for about 200 shifts. Riders can bring along a spare AXS battery as an extra precaution.

trek fuel ex e

Model | Weight in Pounds | Price

Fuel EXe 9.5 | 43.94 | $6,500

Fuel EXe 9.7 | 41.99 | $7,600

Fuel EXe 9.7 P1 Now* | 41.99 | $8,100

Fuel EXe 9.8 XT | 39.9 | $8,700

Fuel EXe 9.8 XT P1 Now* | 39.9 | $9,200

Fuel EXe 9.8 GX AXS | 40.06 | $11,000

Fuel EXe 9.9 XTR | 38.51 | $13,000

Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS | 40.67 | $14,000

* “P1 Now” models have a “premium” finish and are painted and assembled at Trek’s headquarters in Waterloo, Wisconsin. The weight and build kit are the same as standard models.

Headshot of Matt Phillips

A gear editor for his entire career, Matt’s journey to becoming a leading cycling tech journalist started in 1995, and he’s been at it ever since; likely riding more cycling equipment than anyone on the planet along the way. Previous to his time with Bicycling , Matt worked in bike shops as a service manager, mechanic, and sales person. Based in Durango, Colorado, he enjoys riding and testing any and all kinds of bikes, so you’re just as likely to see him on a road bike dressed in Lycra at a Tuesday night worlds ride as you are to find him dressed in a full face helmet and pads riding a bike park on an enduro bike. He doesn’t race often, but he’s game for anything; having entered road races, criteriums, trials competitions, dual slalom, downhill races, enduros, stage races, short track, time trials, and gran fondos. Next up on his to-do list: a multi day bikepacking trip, and an e-bike race. 

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New Trek Marlin+ Is A Versatile E-MTB That Won’t Break The Bank

It follows the ethos of its non-electric sibling, rocking components from shimano and bosch..

New Trek Marlin+ Is A Versatile E-MTB That Won’t Break The Bank

Trek is regarded as one of the most respected bicycle brands the world has ever seen. Since its inception in 1976, Trek has pretty much set the standard across all categories of cycling, and even today, continues to be a driver of innovation in the rapidly growing e-bike segment . Recent years have ushered in lots of new electric bicycles, and for 2024, Trek is going back to basics with the Marlin+ electric mountain bike.

The Trek Marlin has long been a staple in Trek’s model range. Regarded as a jack of all trades in the MTB world, the Marlin appeals to both novice and advanced riders thanks to its versatility and approachability. When it comes to the electric MTB world, Trek has some heavy hitters such as the Trek Fuel EXe 9.5 carbon fiber electric enduro bike. With the Marlin+, Trek hopes to lower the barriers to entry in terms of price and performance, all while providing cyclists with a dependable two-wheeler with trusted Trek quality.

New Trek Marlin+ Is A Versatile E-MTB That Won’t Break The Bank

The Trek Marlin+ promises reliable tech at an affordable price tag.

The Trek Marlin+’s simple construction is worth more than the sum of its parts. Starting south of $3,000, it’s capable of going pretty much anywhere other fancy electric mountain bikes worth three or four times are capable of going. It certainly serves as the perfect gateway drug for a cyclist looking to get into e-bikes, as it’s packing components from some of the most trusted OEMs in the business. For starters, it’s powered by a mid-drive motor from Bosch, more specifically, the 250-watt Active Line Plus.

In Case You Missed It:

touratech soft luggage r1300gs

With 50 Nm (about 37 pound-feet) of torque, the Marlin+ isn’t as potent as other e-bikes powered by the more premium Performance Line CX with 85 Nm (63 pound-feet). It does, however, make up for it with an impressive amount of tech for a natural-feeling pedal assist. Trek bakes in an interesting feature called Auto Mode, wherein the motor provides adaptive pedal assistance based on the rider’s pace. This means that riders need not manually adjust the assist level, and simply crank on the pedals harder to let the motor know they want to go faster.

The Marlin+, like the regular Marlin, is all about versatility.

The entire affair is powered by a compact 400-watt-hour battery housed within the bike’s frame. Its slender proportions keep the Marlin’s signature clean hardtail look, making it easy to miss the fact that this is actually an e-bike. Trek claims an estimated ride time of two to four hours, while an optional 250-watt-hour range-extender can increase ride time by up to 50 percent.

Depending on the trim level of your choice, the Trek Marlin+ is fitted with premium component such as hydraulic disc brakes, a front suspension fork with up to 120 millimeters of travel, and a Shimano drivetrain with either a Cues for the Marlin+ 6 or a Deore for the Marlin+ 8. Like the non-electric Marlin, accessibility and affordability lie at the core of the Marlin+, as such, it retails for just $2,699 USD for the Marlin+ 6 and $3,499 USD for the more premium Marlin+ 8. The new e-bikes, as well as the rest of Trek’s electric and non-electric bikes are available online via their official website, or at your local Trek dealer.

The Marlin+ gets an in-frame battery pack that's compact yet capable.

Shimano components ensure dependable performance both on and off-road. 

Sources: Trek Bikes , Clean Technica

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Test report: trek’s new e-caliber full suspension emtb impresses on all trails.

May 27, 2021 - The opportunity to test out Trek’s new E-Caliber 9.6 mountain bike was a high point this spring. Touted as their lightest full suspension e-MTB ever, this new electric mountain bike was evidently created with efficiency in mind, featuring the same rear IsoStrut suspension design as Trek’s World Cup proven Supercaliber cross-country race bike.

trek e bike full carbon

Featuring an impressive amount of pedal efficiency for the way up, and a surprising amount of capability on the way down, the E-Caliber leans more towards an all-mountain ready rig rather than a racey XC bike like its non-electric twin.

With all six models in the lineup only being available with Trek’s OCLV mountain carbon frame options, the E-Caliber is one of the lighter eMTB options on the market at 40.6 lbs. (size medium) for the 9.6 model we tested (the 9.9 XX1 AXS model is 34lbs.). Rolling on 29x 2.4” Bontrager XR3 Team Issue tubeless ready tires, and featuring a remote lockout to easily switch the suspension on and off, riding on flat or uphill terrain felt nothing short of amazing and is certainly where the bike shines.

trek e bike full carbon

When Trek paired the E-Caliber’s superior pedalling efficiency with a lightweight, completely removable, 250-watt, Fazua Evation drivepack, featuring 55Nm of torque, and 250wh battery with 70km range, they delivered one heck of a fun bike.

The E-Caliber is equipped with Fazua’s intelligent Black Pepper software, which allows the motor to respond immediately as you start to pedal, delivers more power over a wider cadence range, and lets you customize the user settings.

trek e bike full carbon

With three easily adjustable power modes thanks to the sleek Fazua touchpad remote, and up to 32km/h of pedal-assist power, I found myself eager to tackle climbs, trying new and unique lines, and really pushing it to see what was possible to overcome.

The whole ride experience was way more interesting and engaging with that much confidence, and it was my legs that were first to relish a break, not the battery, which offers 2-4 hours of life.

trek e bike full carbon

I was also impressed at how well the bike could also handle technical and fast sections on the way down. When ploughing through chundery, steep, and rocky sections of trail, the bike rarely felt like it was getting bucked or out of control, which essentially sealed the deal on this awesome eMTB.

With a 67.5 degree head angle and 64.8 cm top tube, the bike seems noticeably long and slack for a cross-country bike, and really equated to a sense of stability and confidence on the way down.

trek e bike full carbon

With only 60mm of travel on the Trek IsoStrut Fox Performance rear shock and 120mm in the RockShox 35 Gold RL front fork, the lack of suspension bottom out was also impressive. Considering the minimal amount of suspension that the bike is built with, is something of note, for those looking for a bike that they can get a bit rowdy with while tackling some descents.

trek e bike full carbon

While the E-Caliber is certainly a cross-country bike, it’s spec’d with Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes and a TransX dropper post with 100mm of travel, meaning it’s not only designed to go up.

trek e bike full carbon

Featuring a 34-tooth front chainring and 1×12-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain, I rarely felt undergunned for the climbs or spinning out on the descents, which further drives home the feeling that the E-Caliber is a well-balanced eMTB ready for just about anything and everything.

Not solely for those looking for a fast and efficient option to get them up the trail, the E-Caliber’s descending capabilities far exceeded my initial expectations after throwing a leg over it. Its lightweight design made for an intensely fun and snappy ride on both climbs and descents.

trek e bike full carbon

A cross-country bike at heart, don’t be fooled by the E-Caliber’s minimal suspension and sleek design. This nimble, lightweight and capable eMTB is ready to take on big days and fun descents alike, with a ride quality that’s sure to impress and well worth a good look.

The SRP for the Trek E-Caliber 9.6 is $8,699.99 and for more information pls visit here .

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Here are the best electric bikes you can buy at every price level in March 2024

Avatar for Micah Toll

Here at Electrek, we’ve spent countless hours doing detailed hands-on testing of hundreds of electric bikes. Through thousands of miles of riding, we’ve learned these e-bikes inside and out, top to bottom and front to back. That dedication to real-world e-bike testing has helped us find the best electric bicycles on the market for just about any budget.

Below are some of the top e-bikes we’ve hand-tested for every price range, current as of March 2024. It may not feel like it, but spring is just around the corner (in the Northern Hemisphere) and riding season will soon be upon us. After an ultra-competitive e-bike selling year in 2023, we’re still seeing some great sales into early 2024. So check out the awesome e-bikes below, any one of which could become your next electric bike.

Table of contents

Best electric bikes under $1,000, best electric bikes under $2,000, best electric bikes from $2,000 to $3,500, best electric bikes from $3,500 to $5,000.

The sub-$1,000 electric bike category is critical for a few reasons.

First, it’s pretty hard to produce a quality e-bike and sell it for under $1k. Most of the options in this price category make too many sacrifices in quality or longevity to earn a spot on this list as one of “the best”.

Second, many newcomers to the e-bike industry just aren’t prepared to drop several thousand dollars on a brand-new concept, making this price range critical for many first-time e-bike shoppers.

Fortunately, we’ve found some excellent options for cheap electric bikes that can still save you some serious dough.

lectric xp lite

Lectric XP LITE

The Lectric XP LITE is likely the latest king of bang-for-your-buck electric bikes.

For years, the $999 Lectric XP 3.0 and its previous 1.0 predecessor reigned supreme in the budget electric bike category. That’s still a great bike, and we’ll discuss it next, but the more affordable $799 Lectric XP LITE is an even more wallet-friendly electric bike.

That new e-bike offers some great riding at under 800 bucks.

It’s a throttle-enabled Class 2 folding electric bike with 20″ wheels, a max speed of 20 mph (32 km/h) and a motor rated for 300W continuous and 720W peak.

It’s not going to be the strongest hill climber, but it does get going quickly on flat and modestly hilly terrain.

lectric xp lite

This is the only e-bike in this price range that I know of with a 48V electrical system. All the other budget e-bikes under $800 use a 36V system and thus suffer from weaker power.

There are some things that you give up with this model, such as that the fenders aren’t included free. But for just $799 , you’re still getting built-in lights, a hidden battery, large LCD display and a lightweight folder. Plus it comes in four color options.

There’s a lot of value there!

Lectric XP LITE quick specs

  • Motor:  300W (720W peak) geared rear hub motor
  • Top speed:  32 km/h (20 mph)
  • Range:  Claimed up to 72 km (40 mi), but less on throttle only
  • Battery:  48V 7.8 Ah (375 Wh)
  • Weight : 21 kg (46 lb)
  • Price :  $799  

lectric xp 3.0 electric bike

Lectric XP 3.0

If you like the idea of a low-cost US-based company like Lectric eBikes but want something with more power than their XP LITE, consider the $999 Lectric XP 3.0 . The XP 3.0 is the newest version of America’s best-selling electric bike, and now it’s even better with hydraulic disc brakes! In my opinion, this is the current king of bang-for-your-buck electric bikes right now. It’s clear why this is the best-selling electric bike in the US.

Between the fast 28 mph speed, comfortable ride with front suspension, nimble yet thick three-inch tires, and the powerful 1,000W peak-rated motor, the bike combines high performance with an awesome price. The new version comes with a higher power motor featuring more torque, a new rear rack that can support 150 pounds (and has a passenger package option for carrying a friend), has longer travel suspension, and several other key upgrades.

There are both step-over and step-through frames available. To be honest, the frame member is low on both of them and so they’re both easy to mount, but I actually prefer the step-through. Even though low-step bikes are often considered to be “women’s bikes,” the Lectric XP 3.0 looks badass enough that no one would ever think of calling the step-through option a ladies’ bike. It’s just a more comfortable way to hop on and off.

Plus, the folding frame of the Lectric XP 3.0 means you can bring this high-value e-bike with you in a car or truck. I know several people who keep one in their RV, and I’ve even heard of folks traveling with it on their boat or light airplane.

The company also has longer-range batteries for the XP 3.0 that add 45% more range. If you’re the kind of person who likes to ride fast, that battery will help you use that power for longer rides at higher speeds.

trek e bike full carbon

It’s hard to find a better combination of low cost and high performance anywhere in the e-bike market right now. That’s why this is the bike I used when I worked undercover as an e-bike delivery rider .

Check out my first ride experience on the Lectric XP 3.0 here .

Lectric XP 3.0 quick specs

  • Motor:  500W (850W peak) geared rear hub motor
  • Top speed:  45 km/h (28 mph)
  • Range:  Claimed up to 72 km (45 mi), but less if you’re heavy on the throttle
  • Battery:  48V 9.6 Ah (460 Wh), or larger 14Ah battery available
  • Weight : 29 kg (64 lb)
  • Price :  $999  

Ride1Up Portola

When Ride1Up launched the Portola , it was pretty obvious what the game plan was: fire a shot across Lectric Ebike’s bow with a direct competitor to the Lectric XP 3.0. By all accounts, Ride1Up nailed it with an impressive competitor, the best-selling e-bike out there.

The Ride1Up Portola has a lot more going for it than just the awesome price of $995 . The bike has great performance with a maximum speed of 28 mph (45 km/h) and great components including hydraulic disc brakes, front suspension, a built-in rear rack, and a 750W motor.

There are two battery options available, either a 48V 10.4Ah or a 48V 13.4Ah, and the larger battery only costs an extra $100.

I love the sleek-looking frame and apparently, I’m not alone. Those who are on the hunt for a good-looking folding fat tire e-bike that doesn’t break the bank will likely find this to be one of the more fashionable options.

ride1up portola electric bike

Ride1Up Portola quick specs

  • Motor:  750W geared rear hub motor
  • Battery:  48V 10.4 Ah (504 Wh), or larger 48V 13.4 Ah battery available
  • Weight : 27.2 kg (60 lb)
  • Price :  $995  

Ride1Up Roadster V2

The Ride1Up Roadster V2 seems to hop back and forth in price from $995 to $1,095 , depending on the time of year and current sale. Even when it falls just north of the $1k mark, the Roadster V2 is an awesome deal.

But you should know going in that this is very much a pedal-oriented e-bike. There’s no throttle, and the motor is only moderately powerful, peaking at 500W. That means the Roadster V2 is best for someone who enjoys cycling and simply wants an assist motor to help them go faster and farther.

The belt-drive setup, low-weight design, and fast speed of up to 24 mph make this an incredible deal.

You can check out my full, in-depth review of the Ride1Up Roadster V2 here .

Ride1up Roadster V2 quick specs:

  • Motor:  500W peak (350W continuous) rear hub motor
  • Top speed:  24 mph (38 km/h)
  • Range:  20-35 miles (32-56 km)
  • Battery:  36V 7Ah (252Wh)
  • Weight : 32 lb (14.5 kg)
  • Price :  $995-$1,095

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Propella Mini

The $849 Propella Mini almost looks a bit odd at first glance, but the quirky proportions result in a super nimble and lightweight e-bike.

It’s not particularly fast at just 18 mph. And it’s also a pedal-assist e-bike, meaning you don’t have a throttle for the days when you feel lazy. But for anyone that doesn’t mind pedaling as long as you get a decent electric boost, the Propella Mini is a great option for you.

I love the bright blue rims, white chain, and slim black frame. The look is killer. And the bike rides both smoothly and efficiently. There’s no suspension to speak of, but the upside is there’s no suspension fork to break. The bike should last a long time with modest upkeep, and it’s a definite winner for anyone that’s low on space.

See my full review of the Propella Mini here .

Propella Mini quick specs

  • Motor:  250 W (400 W peak) Bafang rear geared hub motor
  • Top speed:  30 km/h (18.5 mph)
  • Range:  32-56 km (20-35 mi) depending on pedal assist level
  • Battery:  36V 7Ah (250 Wh)
  • Price:  $849
  • Weight : 14.9 kg (33 lb)

trek e bike full carbon

JackRabbit micro e-bike

The $999 JackRabbit OG is in one of these fuzzy areas between e-bikes and other e-rideables. In this case, it straddles the line between an electric bike and an electric scooter.

It more or less feels like an electric bike based on its ride geometry. However, the lack of pedals means that it could also be classified as an electric scooter, albeit a large-wheeled e-scooter.

But with those 20-inch wheels and bicycle seat, the JackRabbit rides much more like a small folding e-bike than an e-scooter. And its electronics match that of a light e-bike too.

The 300W motor gets the little runabout up to 20 mph (32 km/h). The small 158 Wh battery only offers around 10-12 miles (approximately 16-20 km) of range, but is also conveniently small enough to easily keep a spare battery in a cargo pocket or even a small purse.

The biggest benefit of the JackRabbit is that it is so simple that the lack of frills keeps the weight down to just 23 lb (10.5 kg)! For an e-bike, that’s almost so light that it floats.

The company also released a higher power and larger battery capacity version too , which might be good for riders that want to push harder and go farther.

See my full review of the JackRabbit here .

JackRabbit quick specs

  • Motor:  300W geared rear hub motor
  • Range:  20 km (12 mi)
  • Bike weight:  10.5 kg (23 lb.)
  • Brakes:  Rear mechanical disc brake

trek e bike full carbon

Once you bump up above the $1,000 limit, you start to see many more great options for e-bikes in a wide range of categories.

From electric cargo bikes to cruisers and even electric mopeds, there’s something for everyone in this price range.

Lectric XPedition

The $1,399 Lectric XPedition has turned the electric cargo bike market upside down, finally bringing a heavy-hitting cargo e-bike to market for an ultra-affordable price.

We were the first to review this new model and we called it a runaway hit right from the start. With heavy-hauling weight capacity, the option for one or two batteries for extra long range, hydraulic disc brakes and a watt-based more comfortable feeling pedal assist sensor, this e-bike is dragging electric cargo bikes into the future.

While it’s not the nicest cargo e-bike on the market, it’s definitely the best bang for your buck thanks to a combination of high value parts and reasonable pricing.

Lectric XPedition e-bike

Lectric XPedition quick specs:

  • Motor:  750W rear hub motor
  • Battery:  48V 14Ah (672 Wh) with the option for a second battery
  • Top speed:  28 mph (45 km/h)
  • Range:  up to 75 miles (120 km)
  • Weight:  68 lb (31 kg)
  • Price:   $1,399

Aventon Soltera.2

The $1,399 Aventon Soltera.2 is the latest version of Aventon’s beautiful city bike that offers some of the best quality fabrication that I’ve seen in this price range – or even in higher price ranges. It is offered in either a single-speed or seven-speed format.

The bike rolls on narrow tires for that efficient city ride, while still packing in a 500W motor.

The battery is a bit smaller at 36V and 10Ah, but the bike makes up for a smaller battery by being able to integrate it into the frame in a sleek and attractive package.

The beautiful color display also adds to the bike’s charm, as do the powerful headlight and frame-integrated tail light. There’s even an awesome companion app that lets your phone track your bike’s important stats. Basically, you’re getting a lot for $1,199 here!

Check out my in-depth Aventon Soltera.2 review here .

Aventon Soltera.2 quick specs:

  • Motor:  500W peak-rated rear hub motor
  • Battery:  36V 10Ah (360 Wh)
  • Top speed:  20 mph (32 km/h)
  • Range:  20-63 miles (32-101 km)
  • Weight:  46 lb (21 kg)
  • Price:   $1,199

aventon soltera electric bike

Ride1Up Turris

Ride1Up has proven itself as a high-value electric bike brand, focusing largely on efficient and speedy commuter e-bikes. While the company has many models in the $1,000 to $2,000 range, the $1,095 Ride1Up Turris (at it’s current sale price ) is one of the best bang-for-your-buck options.

A powerful 750W continuous-rated motor gets the bike up to Class 3 speeds that will have you keeping up with traffic or even passing cars when they get bogged down in the city. That extra speed over most class 2 e-bikes can be quite useful when riding on the side of the road trying to reduce the number of times a car whizzes by you. Even when riding alone or in a protected path away from cars, the extra speed sure makes for a fun ride.

The sporty tires and two choices of frame style (step over or step through) give riders plenty of options to use this bike on the trails or the streets. I love that it includes full metal fenders as well so you don’t have to spend extra on those. I’d definitely recommend spending an extra $50 for the rear rack though if you plan to use the bike as a commuter, since you never know when you’ll need to toss something on the back.

If you want to upgrade to more power and a nicer set of components, the $1,695 700 Series is worth a look. But I think the Ride1Up Turris is sufficient for most riders.

Ride1Up Turris quick specs:

  • Range:  32-64 km (20-40 mi) throttle vs. pedal assist
  • Battery:  48V 12.8Ah (614 Wh) with genuine LG cells
  • Weight : 25 kg (55 lb)
  • Price :  $1,095

trek e bike full carbon

Lectric XPeak

Lectric Ebikes recently expanded into larger territory with the launch of the new Lectric XPeak. It’s the company’s first e-bike with a larger than 20″ wheel size, bringing some chunky 26×4.0″ tires into the company’s inventory.

The XPeak takes the form of a typical adventure-style fat tire electric bike. It features a hardtail design with a suspension fork, high volume tires, hydraulic disc brakes and a relatively large battery that is certified by the Swiss testing agency SGS to meet UL 2849 standards.

The bike is also tested to higher standards for ruggedness of the frame and fork than most e-bikes in this price range, meaning it’s likely going to last longer too. As far as fat tire adventure-style e-bikes go, there’s no better bang for your buck than the Lectric XPeak.

Lectric XPeak quick specs:

  • Motor:  750W (1,300W peak)
  • Range:  Up to 75 km (45 mi) on low power
  • Battery:  48V 14 Ah (672 Wh)
  • Weight : 39.4 kg (67 lb)
  • Price : $1,299 (may increase to $1,399 after promotional sale ends)

trek e bike full carbon

Ride1Up Cafe Cruiser

The Ride1Up Cafe Cruiser is Ride1Up’s first non-purely commuter electric bike, and boy did they knock it out of the park on this one.

The Cafe Cruiser, as its name suggests, is part cruiser bike, part fast motorbike.

The cruiser bars, suspension fork, comfortable seat and pedal-forward geometry make it a pleasure to ride. The high performance 750W hub motor and 28 mph (45 km/h) top speed make it a blast for quick errand running and fun commutes.

High quality parts like hydraulic disc brakes complete the package, and the included fenders and rear rack increase the bike’s value.

One of the coolest features though is the passenger package that adds a rear bench seat, wheel skirt and foot pegs so you can carry a second rider on back. The second seat has a quick release so you can easily pop it on and off the bike whenever you need to swap back and forth between carrying your friends or a basket full of groceries home.

At just $1,595 , the Ride1Up Cafe Cruiser is priced way below fair market value, which makes this an absolute steal of a deal.

Ride1Up Cafe Cruiser quick specs:

  • Motor:  750W rear geared hub motor
  • Range:  50-80 km (30-50 mi)
  • Battery:  48V 15Ah (720 Wh)
  • Weight : 29 kg (65 lb)
  • Price : $1,595

trek e bike full carbon

Rad Power Bikes RadRunner

The RadRunner from Rad Power Bikes has been an industry favorite ever since it was first announced back in 2019. The company is actually on the RadRunner 2 now, but the update only made minor changes since the original was already so well designed.

The bike uses a step-through moped style frame to create a short utility bike or mini cargo e-bike. It’s quick up to the 20 mph top speed and offers a ton of uses. When outfitted with the Passenger Package , it has a seat and footpegs that let you carry kids or adults on the back, turning this into a multi-passenger e-bike.

The high-capacity battery and powerful motor also make for sprightly acceleration and longer than average rides, so you’ll have enough power to ride all day.

The RadRunner is truly one of those do-anything e-bikes because it has so many uses. The same bike can be used for fun recreational riding, city commuting, trail riding, or grocery shopping. There’s something for everyone.

There’s even an upgraded version known as the RadRunner Plus, which adds suspension, a seven-speed transmission, a more detailed display, and the passenger package, though the RadRunner Plus costs a bit more at $1,899 .

Check out my complete review of the RadRunner 2 here .

RadRunner 2 quick specs:

  • Range:  45-72 km (25-45 mi) depending on user input
  • Battery:  48V 14Ah (672 Wh)
  • Weight : 29.5 kg (65 lb)
  • Price : $1,499

Rad Power Black Friday

Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 4

Cargo electric bikes are the workhorses of the e-bike world. They have higher weight capacities and more surface area for carrying all of your gear.

The $1,999 Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 4 is one of my favorite options thanks to the awesome build and wide range of compatible Rad accessories.

The bike’s 750W motor and large capacity battery make it easy to hit the top speed of 20 mph and ride farther than your errands will require.

Plus that long rear bench has tons of room for boxes, bags, or kiddos. I’ve had three riders on the bike plenty of times, and it can definitely do more. Plus, I love that double center kickstand for creating an ultra-stable parking platform.

Check out my full in-depth review of the RadWagon 4 e-cargo bike here .

Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 4 quick specs:

  • Motor:  750 W geared rear hub motor
  • Battery:  48V 14Ah (672Wh)
  • Weight : 34.8 kg (76.7 lb)
  • Price: $1,999

Electric Bike Company Model Y

Electric Bike Company is one of the only e-bike manufacturers that actually builds its electric bikes in the US from the ground up.

They start with bare frames and perform the entire build locally with highly trained e-bike technicians. That also allows them to offer more customization options than any other e-bike company out there.

The $1,949 Model Y is a step-through cruiser e-bike with a hidden battery in the front basket. It offers fast speeds up to 28 mph and high-quality parts like hydraulic disc brakes and top-end hardware. The color screen and leather accents on the seat and bar ends add to the classy look too!

The real treat though is getting to select the custom paint on every surface of the bike, plus your own rim colors, trim colors, and tire options. It’s incredibly customizable to the point where you’re virtually guaranteed to be able to create a truly one-of-a-kind electric bike if you wish.

Check out my full review of the Electric Bike Company Model Y here .

Electric Bike Company Model Y quick specs:

  • Motor:  1,000W peak rear geared hub motor
  • Range:  Up to 80 km (50 mi) with moderate pedaling
  • Battery:  48V with either 9Ah (432 Wh) or 18Ah (864 Wh) options
  • Weight : 26 kg (58 lb)
  • Price:   $1,949

trek e bike full carbon

Velotric Nomad 1

Velotric has a number of interesting e-bikes in its lineup and I’m enjoying testing several of the companies new models. But one of my favorites so far — thanks to its excellent off-road abilities — has got to be the Velotric Nomad 1.

The e-bike isn’t just powerful or surprisingly comfortable for an off-road, it’s also quite safe. The punchy hydraulic disc brakes offer quick and controlled stops while the UL-certified battery and e-bike systems offer safe operations, removing the worry of dangerous thermal events.

For just $1,499 at its current sale price, this is an excellent bike for both asphalt commuting and dirt trail excursions, all on the same ride!

Check out my full review of the Velotric Nomad 1 here .

Velotric Nomad 1 quick specs:

  • Motor:  1,200W peak rear geared hub motor
  • Range:  Up to 88km (55 mi) on pedal assist
  • Battery:  48V 14.4Ah (691 Wh) frame-integrated, removable
  • Weight : 33 kg (73 lb)
  • Price:  $1,499

trek e bike full carbon

Ride1Up Rift

Ride1Up’s first adventure-style electric bike was a smashing success, helping the San Diego-based electric bike maker enter an entirely new category with a bang.

This fat tire electric bike has a powerful motor, a massive 960Wh battery and an ultra rugged frame with built-in rear rack that can carry heavy cargo or even an adult passenger on back.

With fenders, built-in LED lights and cargo capabilities, the Ride1Up Rift would also make a surprisingly good commuter bike that will traverse pot holes and other rough street imperfections just as well as it handles off-road conditions.

Check out my full review of the Ride1Up Rift XR here .

Ride1Up Rift XR quick specs:

  • Motor:  750W continuous-rated rear geared hub motor
  • Top speed:  32 km/h (20 mph) on throttle, or 45 km/h (28 mph) on pedal assist
  • Range:  Up to 96 km (60 mi) on pedal assist
  • Battery:  48V 20Ah (960 Wh) frame-integrated, removable
  • Weight : 38 kg (84.5 lb)
  • Price:  $1,895

ride1up rift XR e-bike

Velotric Packer electric cargo bike

There are a lot of electric cargo bikes on the market, but the Velotric Packer has recently become one of my go-to recommendations for several reasons. It’s fairly priced, has loads of cargo accessories, includes a UL-certified battery, comes in some eye-catching colors, and works well for transporting my three nieces and nephews around with me.

At its sale price of $1,899, this is definitely an electric cargo bike to have on your short list for it’s slick-looking design and great functionality.

trek e bike full carbon

Check out my full review of the Velotric Packer here .

  • Motor : 750W (1,200W peak) rear-geared hub motor
  • Top speed : 20 mph (32 km/h) or 25 mph (40 km/h) when unlocked
  • Range : Up to 52 miles (84 km)
  • Battery : 48V 15Ah (692 Wh)
  • Weight : 75 lb (34 kg)
  • Price : $1,899

trek e bike full carbon

By the time you surpass the $2,000 dollar mark, you’re starting to get into serious e-bikes with serious performance or build quality.

If you’re spending this much, you’ll want to ensure you’re buying from a reputable company with top-notch products and service.

Ride1Up Prodigy V2 mid-drive e-bike

The $2,295 Ride1Up Prodigy V2 has brought new meaning to the phrase “low-cost mid-drive electric bike”, updating an already impressive e-bike with a new next-gen setup.

This e-bike sports a high-end German-manufactured Brose mid-drive motor and can hit speeds of up to 28 mph (45 km/h), yet is price similarly to much cheaper hub motor-based electric bikes.

It’s a perfect commuter e-bike for someone that wants high quality parts like that German mid-drive motor with 90Nm of torque, hydraulic disc brakes, bright LED lights, included fenders, rear rack, and a very comfortable saddle. Plus there’s a choice between a nice 9-speed chain drive transmission or a fancier Gates Carbon Drive belt setup with an Enviolo continuously variable transmission.

This e-bike is easily worth another $500 more than the price tag, if not more. In fact, you’ll find many of these same components on e-bikes with $3,000-$4,000 price tags all over the place. So if you’re looking for a higher quality e-bike that doesn’t cost as much as a fancy bike shop e-bike, this is the one to consider.

Ride1Up Prodigy quick specs:

  • Motor:  Brose TF Sprinter mid-drive
  • Range:  30-50 miles (50-80 km)
  • Battery:  36V 14Ah (504Wh)
  • Weight : 58 lb (26 kg)
  • Price :  $2,395

trek e bike full carbon

Juiced Scorpion X

The $2,199 Juiced Scorpion X has all the old-school charm of a vintage moped, but it adds back in a powerful electric drivetrain. It also has awesome-looking cast wheels that remove the issue of spoke maintenance, plus add to the cool stance.

The bench seat allows riders to scoot forward or backward to find the best seating position, and the tall bars give a fun cruiser/motorcycle feel to the bike. With full suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, and a built-in rear rack/fenders, there are a lot of nice parts on the Scorpion X

A powerful throttle lets you blast up to 20 mph, or engaging the pedal assist can take you even faster to 28 mph. And Juiced offers a larger battery than most competitors, letting you ride this moto-styled e-bike even further.

Check out my in-depth review of the Juiced Scorpion X here .

Juiced Scorpion X quick specs:

  • Motor:  750W “nominal” (claimed 1.8 kW peak) RetroBlade rear hub motor
  • Range:  Up to 55 miles (88 km) on pedal-assist or closer to half that on throttle
  • Battery:  52V 15Ah 780Wh (removable and lockable)
  • Weight : 100 lb (45 kg)
  • Price : $2,199

Priority Current

I love the $3,299 Priority Current electric bike so much that it has become one of my daily riders. It’s the one I grab when I’m doing city riding and I know I want to be pedaling.

Becuase it doesn’t have a throttle, you’ll need to enjoy pedaling in order to enjoy this e-bike. But it makes it so much fun to pedal thanks to a torque sensor-based pedal assist that provides natural feeling assistance up to a fast 28 mph top speed.

The internally geared rear hub combined with a Gates belt drive system and powerful hydraulic disc brakes make this a very nice e-bike for the price. Plus that mid-drive motor offers tons of torque for climbing hills or accelerating quickly.

I’m also a fan of the built-in lights and included fenders, not to mention the integrated high-capacity battery that disappears in the frame.

Mid-drive electric bikes aren’t cheap, but the price is definitely a fair one for this e-bike.

Check out my full review of the Priority Current here . I also recently reviewed the Shimano 5-speed version of this e-bike, which you can find here .

Priority Current quick specs :

  • Motor:  500W mid-drive motor with torque sensor
  • Top speed:  28 mph (45 km/h) or 20 mph (32 km/h) user-selectable
  • Range:  30-60 miles (48-96 km)
  • Battery:  500 Wh frame-integrated battery
  • Weight : 24 kg (53 lb)
  • Price: $3,299

Ride1Up CF Racer1

I’m not normally a carbon fiber, drop bar, race bike kind of guy. But then again, that’s usually because those types of bikes are way out of my price range… until now.

The Ride1Up CF Racer1 brings carbon fiber road e-bikes to the common man, offering both a traditional road bike and a gravel bike edition.

At under 29 lb (13 kg), these e-bikes are some of the lightest around. I picked one up with my index finger and was shocked at how easily it left the ground.

To get there, that meant a relatively low-power motor and a smaller battery were required. But for the folks that ride these types of bikes, a big motor and heavy battery probably aren’t on their wishlist anyway. Instead, a simple extra boost, as if you’ve always got a tailwind, helps augment your own pedaling.

For just $2,295 , there’s no better deal out there for a budget-friendly carbon fiber road e-bike.

Ride1Up CF Racer1 quick specs

  • Motor:  250W 42 Nm torque
  • Top speed:  28 mph (45 km/h) on pedal assist
  • Range:  16-40 miles (26-64 km)
  • Battery:  252 Wh frame-integrated battery
  • Weight : 12.9 kg (28.6 lb)
  • Price: $2,295

ride1up CF Racer1 electric bike

Biktrix Moto

There’s a lot to like about the Biktrix Moto electric moped. Near the top of the list though has got to be the dual batteries. There’s a single battery option that starts at $2,299 , but the dual battery option doubles the range up to a maximum of 100 miles.

Even with just one battery, the high capacity of 1,008 Wh makes these some of the biggest batteries in the e-bike industry. Combine that with a high power motor, tall handlebars, and a long bench seat, and you’ve got a seriously fun electric moped.

It doesn’t slouch on components either. The lighting is ultra bright and it features other nice parts like powerful hydraulic disc brakes and an included rack/fender setup.

See my full review of the Biktrix Moto e-bike here .

Biktrix Moto quick specs:

  • Motor:  Bafang 750W continuous hub motor (peak power not published)
  • Top speed:  25 mph (40 km/h) but can be limited to Class 2 speeds
  • Range:  Up to 100 miles (160 km) with two batteries
  • Battery:  48V 21Ah (1,008 Wh) in each battery (two possible)
  • Weight:  90 lb (41 kg)
  • Price: $2,299

biktrix moto

Ride1Up REVV1 FS

This full-suspension electric moped-style e-bike is a masterclass in high performance electric bike design. Sure, it’s an obvious SUPER73 imitation, but it’s a really well done imitation.

It handles well, it’s got great rubber between you and the road, the suspension gives a comfortable ride, and it’s got plenty of extra power.

Despite the 750W label, the e-bike can be unlocked to make use of nearly 1,500W of peak power. I was able to reach a top speed of 37 mph (59.5 km/h) during my testing (not on public streets!).

But the bike ships in Class 2 mode with a 750W limit and 20 mph (32 km/h) maximum speed, meaning you’ll have to contact the company to request an unlock for the bike to be used above Class 2 speeds and power levels.

All in all, the $2,395 Ride1Up REVV1 FS is an amazing e-bike for anyone who wants a moped-style ride with full-suspension, high quality 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes and a design that rides almost like a motorcycle, yet in a bike form factor.

Check out my complete Ride1Up REVV1 FS review here .

Ride1Up REVV1 quick specs:

  • Motor:  Bafang 750W continuous hub motor
  • Top speed:  20 mph (32 km/h) out of the box, 37 mph (59.5 km/h) when unlocked
  • Battery:  52V 20Ah (1,040 Wh)
  • Weight:  93 lb (42 kg)
  • Price: $2,395

ride1up revv1

Tern Quick Haul

The Tern Quick Haul is an electric cargo bike from the famed cargo e-bike company Tern. It holds the distinction of being the most affordable model in Tern’s lineup.

That says a lot, because Tern is known for its high quality e-bikes that are built to be ridden every day for real world errands, carpool duty and more. These e-bikes are meant to replace cars, and they do just that for many riders. With a huge list of accessories, you can outfit a Quick Haul for just about any job.

The Tern Quick Haul features a mid-drive Bosch motor, hydraulic disc brakes, Tern’s vertical parking rack, and a relatively lightweight but high utility design that is meant to carry just about anything in your life.

We had the chance to test a pair of Quick Hauls at Eurobike in Frankfurt last year, which you can learn more about here.

Motor:  Bosch Active Line Plus mid-drive motor Top speed:  20 mph (32 km/h) with pedal assist (no throttle) Range:  Up to 60 miles (96 km), less when riding in highest power Battery:  400Wh, removable/lockable Weight:  50 lb (22.8 kg) Price : $2,999

trek e bike full carbon

Ariel Rider X-Class

When it comes to fast, powerful electric mopeds on a budget, it’s hard to compete with the $2,399 Ariel Rider X-Class . This is the e-bike I usually recommend when someone simply wants the most power and speed for the least amount of money.

The impressive performance comes from a powerful 1,000W motor that actually puts out closer to 2,000W of peak power. It can be limited to 20 mph if you’d like, but I got it up to 36 mph in unlimited mode.

The bike rolls on 20″ moto-style wheels and comes with nice parts including hydraulic disc brakes, a bench seat, dual suspension, and a big moto-style headlight.

You can see my full review of the Ariel Rider 52V X-Class here .

  • Motor:  1,000W (2,000W peak) rear hub motor
  • Top speed:  36 mph (58 km/h), but can be limited to Class 2 speeds
  • Range:  Up to 75 miles (120 km), less when riding at top speed
  • Battery:  52V 18Ah (936 Wh), removable/lockable
  • Weight:  80 lb (36 kg)
  • Price : $2,399

Rad Power Bikes Rad Rover 6 Plus with accessories

Technically the Rad Rover 6 Plus is priced at $1,999 . And with its free shipping, it comes in under the $2k mark. But I’m including it in the $2k-$3k category because you’re going to want to add a couple of important accessories to this one.

Rad Power Bikes has one of the widest arrays of e-bike accessories on the planet . In fact, it might have THE widest selection. And I’d highly recommend adding the rear rack ($79) to the RadRover 6 Plus, at the very least. It simply adds even more utility and turns an adventure bike into an adventure/hauling bike.

Accessories aside, the RadRover 6 Plus is an awesome ride and packs in some real value. It is the highest-spec e-bike in Rad’s lineup and includes hydraulic disc brakes, redesigned suspension fork, an upgraded frame with a new semi-integrated battery, new displays that are easier to read and use, and so much more.

This is absolutely an e-bike that is worth checking out for anyone that does adventure-style riding and needs big tires combined with high power, and who wants the support and comfort provided by going with North America’s largest e-bike company.

Check out my full RadRover 6 Plus review here .

RadRover 6 Plus quick specs:

  • Range:  45-72 km (25-45 mi) depending on throttle or pedal assist
  • Weight:  33.3 kg (73.4 lb)
  • Price:   $1,999

Above $3.5k, you’re entering some seriously dedicated e-bike territory.

These e-bikes either feature top-shelf components like drivetrain and brake parts, or pack in so much power that they couldn’t possibly be priced any lower.

Either way, you’re not in Kansas anymore. You’re heading down the e-bike rabbit hole.

Tern is renowned for building high-quality electric bikes that double down on utility features. The newly updated Tern HSD is the company’s more affordable utility e-bike, offering many features you’ll find on its higher end GSD but at a price that more riders can stomach.

The HSD uses small 20″ wheels and includes a folding stem, making it nice and compact. But taking it one step further, Tern outfitted it with its innovative rack that lets you park the bike on its tail, meaning it takes up barely more space than a coat rack in the corner of a room.

The bike’s Bosch mid-drive and high capacity batteries provide a high-end e-bike drive, and they are matched with a variety of performance drivetrain options that you can select from, depending on how high you want to spec the bike.

Whether you’re ferrying around kids or buying a week’s worth of groceries, the HSD is a solid option.

Check out my detailed first ride experience on the Tern HSD here .

Tern HSD quick specs:

  • Motor:  Bosch Active Line Plus mid-drive
  • Top speed:  32 km/h (20 mph) with electric assist
  • Range:  42-110 km (26-69 mi) depending on pedal input
  • Battery:  Bosch PowerPack 400 Wh
  • Weight : 25.4 kg (55.9 lb)
  • Price:  $4,299

trek e bike full carbon

CSC FT1000MD

The CSC FT1000MD sounds like a motorcycle name because it comes from a company with motorcycle heritage. CSC Ebikes was born out of CSC Motorcycles, a company with several decades of two-wheeler experience.

The FT1000MD is the company’s highest power option. The fat tire e-bike comes with a 1,000+ watt motor known as the Bafang M620 Ultra. It’s the most powerful and highest torque e-bike mid-drive motor on the retail market. CSC paired it with a big battery, quality suspension, hydraulic brakes, built-in lighting, and more to create a high performance and high-quality adventure e-bike.

I was able to hit speeds of around 34 mph with the motor in unlocked format, though you can limit it to 20 or 28 mph to fit into class 2 and class 3 designations.

Check out my full review of this incredibly powerful e-bike here .

CSC FT1000MD quick specs:

  • Motor:  1,000W continuous Bafang M620 mid-drive
  • Top speed: 54 km/h (34 mph) when unlocked
  • Battery:  48V 16Ah (768Wh) with Samsung 35E cells
  • Frame:  6061 aluminum
  • Suspension:  Front suspension fork with preload and damping adjustment, plus lockout
  • Brakes:  Tektro hydraulic disc brakes with 180 mm rotors
  • Weight : 34 kg (75 lb)
  • Price:  $3,299 or save $200 with discount code ELECTREK

csc ft1000md electric bike

Ariel Rider Grizzly

When it comes to all-wheel-drive electric bikes, the $3,299 Ariel Rider Grizzly is one of my favorites.

This incredible e-bike is really more of a small electric motorcycle. It uses two high-power motors – one in each wheel – to offer speeds in the mid-30s and acceleration that will get you there in the blink of an eye.

Full suspension and hydraulic disc brakes make this an e-bike that handles well at any speed, and the bright red paint job looks as aggressive as the e-bike feels. It even comes with footpegs pre-installed so you can carry a passenger with you.

Plus it’s got double batteries to feed those two power-hungry motors, so you’ll be able to ride this e-bike pretty darn far too, as long as you aren’t too demanding from the throttle.

Check out my full in-depth review of the epic Ariel Rider Grizzly e-bike here .

Ariel Rider Grizzly quick specs:

  • Motors:  Dual 1,000W continuous hub motors (1,850W peak or 3.7 kW combined)
  • Top speed:  36 mph (58 km/h) when unlocked, but can be limited to Class 2 speeds
  • Battery:  52V 35Ah (1,820 Wh) between two removable/lockable batteries
  • Weight:  105 lb (47.6 kg)

Specialized Turbo Como SL

For more of a cruiser/city e-bike experience, the $4,800 Specialized Turbo Como SL is a great option. This e-bike offers a much more upright ride for a fun, relaxed vibe.

The e-bike features a high-quality mid-drive motor, hydraulic disc brakes, Gates carbon belt drive, and an eight-speed internally geared hub. Those are a lot of nice parts!

And don’t forget the slim fenders, front basket, and cruiser bars that all look super elegant, complimenting the nice lines of the Turbo Como SL.

This may not be a low-cost e-bike, but it definitely offers a ride that makes it worth it.

See my full review of the Specialized Turbo Como SL here .

Specialized Turbo Como SL quick specs:

  • Motor:  Custom Specialized SL1.1 mid-drive motor
  • Range:  Up to 100 km (62 mi), or 50% more with range extender
  • Battery:  Downtube-integrated 320 Wh battery
  • Weight : 20.5 kg (45 lb.)
  • Price:   $4,800

If you’ve been looking for a high-end trekking electric bike that was built with a combination of high-quality parts and the latest technology, look no further than the $4,550 Greyp T5.

There’s a reason why Porsche bought this e-bike company – it’s simply one of the best.

It uses Greyp’s own in-house developed 700 Wh battery combined with a mid-drive motor to offer a hardtail trekking e-bike. In addition to the awesome bike design, the built-in tech is what really opens people’s eyes. Integrated cameras at the front and rear of the bike can serve as dash cams or livestream your rides. Plus you can capture all of your ride footage on the bike instead of bringing along a Go-Pro camera.

There’s also an app that allows you to take full advantage of the built-in eSIM card, giving you connectivity to the bike and letting you check all your vital stats, find its location, and more – right from your phone.

The bike is truly a high-end offering by itself, but the embedded tech makes it a rarity in any category.

See my first ride review of the Greyp T5 e-bike here .

Best electric bikes above $5,000

You just couldn’t stop, could you? I showed you plenty of awesome e-bikes that didn’t cost most of a paycheck. But you just haaaaad to keep going.

Fine, here they are. These are some of the most expensive e-bikes out there that we’ve tested and that I’d actually recommend someone buying, if you can pony up the cash.

Fuell Flluid-2 and Flluid-3

The $5,495 Fuell Flluid-2 and Flluid-3 are great examples of what happens when a motorcycle designer applies his tradecraft to a smaller platform, creating an e-bike built to a higher standard.

The Fuell Flluid’s smooth mid-drive motor with built-in gearbox and Gates carbon belt drive setup combine to make an ultra-responsive and polished electric powertrain. The two removable batteries built into special cutouts in the frame offer long-range riding without looking like a packhorse carrying massive batteries.

The e-bike is nearly maintenance-free thanks to the belt drive and hydraulic disc brakes. The duo removes the two most common maintenance issues with bikes: chain wear and brake adjustment.

Flying fast at 28 mph (45 km/h) is a blast, and doing it on a smooth-riding e-bike with Pirelli tires is even better. Then add in the ultra-bright lights, built-in fenders and rear rack, the suspension seat post, color LCD screen and other niceties, and now you’re left with a high-end e-bike that could serve you for years as a daily commuter e-bike designed for nearly maintenance-free high mileage riding. The only downside is that the bike is quite heavy at 36 kg (79 lb). But you can’t expect all these great parts and dual batteries on a featherweight bike!

Check out my full review of the Fuell Flluid here .

Fuell Flluid quick specs:

  • Motor:  750-1,000W rated Valeo mid-drive motor with built-in gearbox
  • Range:  Up to 200 km (125 mi) with dual batteries (though Fuell-3 has just a single battery)
  • Brakes:  Tektro hydraulic disc brakes on 180 mm rotors
  • Weight:  36 kg (79 lb)
  • Price: $5,495

fuell flluid electric bike

GoCycle G4i+

When it comes to ultra-premium folding electric bikes, there’s only one name that comes to my mind: GoCycle. These are the most impressive folding e-bikes I’ve ever seen. And they better be – they were designed by a former McLaren engineer.

Between the carbon fiber work, single-sided wheels, high-tech tires, trippy LED dot display, innovative rear suspension, and completely enclosed drivetrain, there’s a lot of high-end stuff going on here.

The speed will vary from 15-20 mph depending on which country you buy the bike in, but the performance is only part of the equation. The quick folding and light, compact design of the e-bike is the real winner here.

Check out my full review of the GoCycle G4i+ here .

GoCycle G4i+ quick specs:

  • Motor:  500W front hub motor
  • Top speed:  20 mph (32 km/h) in the US
  • Range:  up to 50 miles (80 km)
  • Battery:  36V 10.4Ah (375 Wh)
  • Weight : 37.2 lb (16.9 kg)
  • Price:   $6,999

trek e bike full carbon

Serial 1 RUSH/CTY SPEED

Serial 1, the electric bicycle company that spun out of Harley-Davidson, has several awesome electric bike models. While most fall under the $5,000 mark, I’m going to recommend their top of the line model: The $5,599 Serial 1 RUSH/CTY SPEED . If you’re in the market to buy a Serial 1 e-bike, you might as well go for the best.

Like all of Serial 1’s e-bikes, it’s got a great design and ridability. Serial 1 scored top e-bike designers from companies like Trek, so they know how to build an awesome bike with killer geometry. They also brought in the Harley-Davidson LiveWire electric motorcycle engineers to build the custom battery, so it’s top of the line too. Then they used pro parts like the Brose mid-drive and Gates carbon belt drive setup. Basically, it’s an incredible e-bike. And with a 28 mph (45 km/h) top speed plus a huge 706 Wh battery to ride all day, the performance matches the build.

Serial 1 even goes above and beyond with their own custom weight bearing fenders that also happen to be functional racks (both in the front and rear), their own custom designed lights that throw serious illumination up front and give you great rear visibility from dropout-mounted lights, and there’s even a glovebox in the bike!

Basically, there’s a lot to like here. Yes, it’s expensive. But you’re not just paying for the H-D name on the side. It’s actually a high quality, high performance electric bike regardless of the badging.

Check out my full first ride on the various Serial 1 e-bike models here .

Motor:  High torque Brose TF MAG mid-drive motor Top speed (tested):  45 km/h (28 mph) Battery:  706 Wh Serial 1 custom battery Range:  25-115 miles (40-185 km), likely more in the 30-50 miles range with normal riding Weight:  26.7 kg (59 lb) Price:   $5,599

FREY EX Pro electric mountain bike

The FREY EX Pro is a high-end electric mountain bike with crazy high power. It uses the same motor as the CSC FT1000MD we featured above (the Bafang M620 mid-drive), but cranks up the current to provide closer to 1,500W of power.

It’s enough to destroy chains if you aren’t careful. We know. Several of us here at Electrek have done it.

The FREY EX Pro not only features high-end parts like a RockShox Lyric fork and Magura MT5e hydraulic brakes, but it even comes with dual batteries so you can ride farther and stay on the trails longer.

I’ve personally taken this e-bike back UP a downhill mountain bike course – that’s how powerful it is.

It may be expensive, but it saves you several thousand dollars compared to many European electric mountain bikes with similar components but a fraction of the power in the FREY.

See my full review of the FREY EX Pro here .

  • Motor:  1 kW continuous, 1.5 kW peak-rated Bafang Ultra mid-drive motor
  • Top speed (tested):  59 km/h (36 mph)
  • Battery:  Dual 48V 14Ah packs (1,344 Wh total)
  • Range:  Varies  considerably  by ride style/terrain, but 30-100 km (20-60 miles) is the ballpark
  • Weight:  34 kg (75 lb)
  • Price:   $5,580

Top comment by RedAirBalloon

1–I have a Lectric XPLite. It’s great to load in the SUV or RV with my wife’s Liberty Trike, which weighs only 50 lbs AND comes apart into two 25-lb pieces. Easy on my old back! The new RAD and Lectric trikes are good, I’m sure, but would be unusable for me. Too heavy.

2–RE: the importance of the sub-$1000 list…I think this also applies to some of the Chinese EV cars, the 50-mph, low-priced category. If brought here, or built here, they’d allow far more people to get into an EV, as a primary city car, or even a suburban 2nd car.

The Tern GSD improves upon the Tern HSD with even more capability and even nicer components. There are multiple versions that can take you up to nearly $10k, but even the lower-tier versions are not “low tier,” if you know what I mean.

Parts like automatically engaging electric locks, 10-speed Shimano Deore transmissions, Magura MT5e quad-piston hydraulic disc brakes, and more set these e-bikes apart from the rest of the pack.

If you’re getting a Tern GSD, you’re getting a fully qualified car replacement. There are many people that use these instead of buying a second car. When you look at it like that, the price suddenly seems pretty reasonable.

Check out our full review of the Tern GSD here .

  • Motor:  Bosch Cargo Line mid-drive
  • Range:  42-85 km (26-53 mi) depending on pedal input
  • Weight : 33.6 kg (74 lb)
  • Price : $5,399

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

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Micah Toll is a personal electric vehicle enthusiast, battery nerd, and author of the Amazon #1 bestselling books DIY Lithium Batteries , DIY Solar Power,   The Ultimate DIY Ebike Guide  and The Electric Bike Manifesto .

The e-bikes that make up Micah’s current daily drivers are the $999 Lectric XP 2.0 , the $1,095 Ride1Up Roadster V2 , the $1,199 Rad Power Bikes RadMission , and the $3,299 Priority Current . But it’s a pretty evolving list these days.

You can send Micah tips at [email protected], or find him on Twitter , Instagram , or TikTok .

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DIY Carbon Bikes

DCB F150-E Trek Rail Style Carbon Full Suspension E Bike Frameset 29er or 27.5+

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Ready to build up your own light and durable carbon Enduro E MTB frame? Or upgrade your current frame?  No better place to start than with a quality and affordable carbon frame. This F150 frame from DIY Carbon BIkes is a light in durable options for those looking for a E-bike full suspension with 150mm rear travel. Built with triple enforced T800 Carbon, a 31.6 seat tube for wider posts and dropper posts, and equipped with either no battery so you can buy your own, a Befang M500 motor, or a Befang M600 motor. This frame is comparable to the Trek Rail, and can take 29er or 27.5+ wheels. The frame can take up 150-170mm fork in the front with 29er wheels and 160-180mm fork with 27.5+ wheels.  

Product Specs:

Material:  100% High-Quality T700/T800 Carbon Fiber

Size Availability: 16” (S),18” (M) ,20" (L)

Finish:  UD Matte ( Custom Colors available for $75 upgrade for Standard, $150 upgrade for Special Paint -- See options in product images ) Rear Shock Eye to Eye : Standard is a 205 eye-to-eye trunnion mount shock. Standard is 205 x 57.5, but can do more or less stroke as long as the shock is 205 and trunnion mounted. 

Rear Shock Hardware: 22x8mm top and bottom is Trunnion mount bolt (included)

Rear Travel:  150mm.

Front Fork Travel: 150-170mm 29er wheels (160-180mm for 27.5 plus wheels)

Disc Rotor size:  160mm Weight :  2650g ±30g (M)

Cable Type: Internal Routing for the brake line, rear & front derailleur, dropper post. 

Motor and battery -  None, Befang M500, or M600 motor and 43v battery 

Rear Spacing: BOOST 12*148mm thru axle (Axle included)

Head Tube: 1-1/8”,1-1/2” , integrated 42mm, 52mm cups (Headset included) 

Seat Tube:  For 31.6mm diameter seat post

Max Tire size:  29x2.5 and 27.5x2.8

Shipping: Frame is shipped Expedited Factory Direct. For more shipping information see our Shipping Page on the bottom of the site. 

Warranty: This frame comes with a two years full warranty and three years wholesale crash replacement. 

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trek e bike full carbon

The 13 Best Electric Bikes of 2024

From mountain bikes to the best options for commuting, we have an expert-backed pick for every e-biker.

E-bikes let a broader range of riders access cycling, and they encourage users to ditch the motor vehicle for their daily commute, errand running, or long rides into the wild. 

Most e-bikes operate with a pedal-assist engine, meaning that the motor works as you pedal to increase your speed, typically broken out into several different pedal-assist modes, and some have a boost feature to help you get up to speed quickly. The best e-bikes also come with commuter-friendly features like fenders, integrated head and tail lights, and a long-lasting battery. Some wear the e-bike bonafides proudly, with visible batteries and large LCD display screens and controls, while others integrate the tech into the bike frame for a more traditional, streamlined look. But they all help us travel easier, farther, and faster.

Best Overall: Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0

Buy at Specialized.com

Buy at Upway.co

Why We Love It

Ready to support casual riders and long-range commuters, this bike delivers a natural pedaling experience, a four-time boost to your efforts, and loads of user-friendly details.

What to Consider

It’s not optimal for off-road or gravel riding, and weighs a lot compared to other options.

Outfitted with front and rear fenders, a 210-lumen light, a rear rack, a bell, and a full on-board computer, the Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 provides everything you need for commuting or casual riding. The electric Turbo tech delivers a four-time boost to your natural pedaling, providing a powerful, natural feel that conquers any hill with ease, along with 11 gears to optimize performance. The upright architecture positions your body comfortably for long-term riding, and a front suspension (with 80-millimeter of travel) works with a plush suspension seat post to smooth out harsh terrain. Bluetooth-capabilities allow you to use the Specialized app to manage the system and provide advanced performance tracking, and it even locks down the electric engine and triggers a motion sensor alarm for added security. The bike comes in four sizes (S to XL), which accommodate a range of different riders, and the 250-watt motor can help you reach speeds up to 28 miles per hour. Riders report that the overall range is superior to lesser bikes, but at 58 pounds, it does weigh a lot, and may not be best suited for people who need to haul the bike up stairs.

The Details: 58 pounds | top speed 28 miles per hour | 250-watt hour battery | Step-over

Best Budget: Ancheer Folding Electric Bike

Buy at Amazon.com

Buy at Walmart.com

Lightweight, small, and easy to use, this low-cost bike provides effortless transport and a range of up to 45 miles on a single charge.

The sizing is limited, suitable only for cyclists from 4 feet, 6 inches to 5 feet, 6 inches tall.

The Ancheer Folding Electric Bike proves that you can get a high-quality ride for less than $1,000. The bike delivers three modes of transport: manual pedal mode, three-stage pedal-assist mode (with speeds that top at 10, 15, and 20 miles per hour), and throttle mode, which delivers a boost of speed for six to eight seconds. Dual disc brakes provide confident stopping power, and integrated head and tail lights assure you’re visible in low-light situations. And, unlike some more complicated folding bikes, the folding happens in a single step — pull down the lever and the bike collapses. A telescoping seat post supports rider heights from 4 feet, 6 inches to 5 feet, 6 inches. In all but the hilliest terrain, the bike delivers a 45-mile range on a single charge, and the on-board computer provides a clear display of key stats, including your speed and remaining battery life.

The Details: 48.5 pounds | 20 miles per hour top speed | 350/500-watt motor | 374.4-watt-hour battery | Step-through

Best Folding: Ride1Up Portola

Buy at Ride1up.com

The compact bike folds up easily and creates a small overall package, and when it’s on the road, it travels with a max speed of 28 miles per hour.

The bike folds up nicely, but at 59 pounds, it’s still pretty heavy, and it doesn’t have any sort of suspension.

With hinge points at the stem and downtube, Ride1Up’s Portola comes with a secure locking strap to reduce the bike into a compact footprint for easy storage. And the bike moves , with eight gears, a max pedal-assist speed of 28 miles per hour, and a robust 20-mile-per-hour throttle. The 2.2-inch LCD display lets you customize the level of pedal assist and watch live wattage output as well as track speed and battery life. It also comes with a handful of commuter-friendly features like a rear rack that can handle loads of up to 130 pounds, a 40LIX front light and rear brake light, and hardened alloy fenders to protect you from debris and water spraying up from the 20-inch by 3-inch wheels, which are wide enough to handle roads, paved trails , and even a bit of loose gravel or dirt. The removable battery comes with a key lock for added security, and it also makes it easy to swap in additional batteries, one of the many accessories on offer. All that said, it does weigh 59 pounds, and it’s sized for riders that measure in height between 4 feet, 10 inches tall and 6 feet, 4 inches.

The Details: 59 pounds | 28 miles per hour top speed |  750-watt motor | 120-watt-hour battery | Step-though

Related: The 12 Best Bike Helmets of 2024

Best for Older Adults: Electra Townie Go! 5i EQ Step-thru

Buy at Rei.com

Buy at Bikeconnection.net

Easy-to-use controls, a large-format LED display, a step-through frame, and an upright riding position round out one of the funnest e-bike options available.

This isn’t built for max speed and can only handle paved terrain.

With an overall geometry that leans into the carefree cycling of a beach cruiser and an easy-access step-in frame, the Electra Townie Go! 5I EQ evokes simplicity and joy. The pedal-assist engine can reach speeds of up to 20 miles per hour, with four different speed levels to handle challenging hills, and the easy-to-use Bosch battery reaches 50 percent charge in 1.5 hours and a full charge in 3.5 hours. While riding, you sit upright, which improves comfort and posture, while Electra’s “Flat Foot Tech” creates a proper leg extension that always lets you plant your feet flat. The touch-button display boasts big fonts so you can read the stats at a glance, which include speed, battery charge, and toggles for the different power levels. And the other features of a bike that can sometimes catch your pants or cause hassles have been internalized, including the gear system and the cables. The chain guard keeps grease from streaking your leg, and it also comes with a front light and cargo rack. You even get an integrated lock in the rear tire (though we support locking the bike up as well).

The Details: 55 pounds | 20 miles per hour top speed | 250-watt motor | 400-watt-hour battery | Step-though

Best Mountain Bike: Santa Cruz Heckler

Buy at Santacruzbicycles.com

Ready to be built to your specifications, this bike will conquer the toughest mountain bike terrain, and the battery will power your ride for day-long outings.

It doesn’t have any lighting or other commuter-friendly features.

Built for all-day exploration on the gnarliest, most technical singletrack, the Santa Cruz Heckler employs a 720-watt-hour battery to generate up to 600 watts of power, with four pedal assist modes triggered via an ergonomic switch on the handlebars. You can also connect to the Shimano ETube Project app to wirelessly customize the system. And the bike also gets all the mountain-bike specifics right, including 150 millimeters of rear travel and 160 millimeters up front, which absorbs all the bumps and rough terrain to deliver a smooth, intuitive ride. It rides on twin 29-inch wheels, which operate with calm efficiency in varied conditions and helps overcome roots, fallen trees, and rocks, while the carbon frame is tough enough to handle years of riding. Disc brakes let you feather your speed or come to a quick stop, the gear shifting is intuitive and easy, and the bike hides its e-bike features by integrating the battery into the frame.

The Details: 50 pounds | 28 miles per hour top speed | 600-watt battery | 720 watt-hour battery | Step-over

Best Road Bike: Trek Domane+ SLR 7 AXS

Buy at Bikelist.com

Buy at Trekbikes.com

This discrete e-bike layers in all the key features of a high-end road bike along with ample pedal-assisted power and a long-range battery.

It doesn’t have integrated lights.

The Trek Domane+ SLR 7 AXS has found a way to blend the responsiveness and light weight of a dedicated road bike with all the key features of a pedal-assist electric setup. Pedal assist is driven by a TQ harmonic pin ring motor that’s light, compact, whisper-quiet, and has enough power to reach speeds of 28 miles per hour. An LED screen displays all the necessary data, and hood-mounted controls make it easy to shift through the various assist modes. Better still, the 800 Series Carbon frame is Trek’s lightest and most durable, which works with Aeolus Pro 3 OCLV Carbon wheels to keep you moving even if you kill the engine. And the drive system is also operated via electronics to deliver personalized, fast, and smooth shifting. The tires are rated to handle gravel, amping the bike’s versatility. You can also connect to the bike’s computer wirelessly via the Trek Central app, which includes custom motor tuning options, range calculations, activity tracking, and navigation and mapping features.

The Details: 27 pounds | 28 miles per hour top speed | 250-watt motor | 360-watt-hour battery | Step-over

Best Gravel Bike: Moots Express Bike

Buy at Moots.com

Moots leverages its legacy of quality products and experience with gravel bikes to deliver a powerful, precise rig that doesn’t scream electric.

It’s quite expensive and doesn’t have integrated lights.

Designed, tested, and built in Steamboat Springs, Colorado , the Moots Express is as close as you can get to a custom-made, gravel-ready e-bike. The Class-3 pedal-assist runs on the latest Shimano EP891 drive unit, with max speeds of up to 28 miles per hour powered off a 504-watt-hour battery. They’ve also integrated Shimano components specifically designed for an e-bike, including electronic shifters and brake assistance. The all-carbon frame proves to be durable and lightweight. And the bike looks slick; Moots integrates all the wires and hoses into the hollow frame, providing a more streamlined aesthetic. And if you’re looking for the Express to also operate as a commuter, there are front and rear fender mounts built into the frame, along with bottle and pack mounts.

The Details: 33 pounds | 28 miles per hour top speed | 600-watt motor | 504-watt-hour battery | Step-over

Best for Commuting: Priority Current E-Bike

Buy at Prioritybicycles.com

Outfitted with a durable belt drive rather than a greasy chain, this bike provides everything a fair-to-foul-weather commuter might need.

At 53 pounds, the bike might prove to be cumbersome when pushing or carrying it up stairs.

As with all Priority bikes, the Current comes with a carbon drive belt first used in autos rather than a chain. It provides better torque, won’t break, and – commuters rejoice – won’t stain your hands or clothing. The urban-friendly bike has five different pedal-assist modes, and employs a mid-drive motor that provides up to 140 newton-meter-seconds of torque to pick up speed quickly, powered by a 500-watt motor that runs off a 500-watt-hour battery.  When it comes to the rear hub, Priority also takes its cue from hybrid and electric cars by using a play on continuous variable transmission (CVT); to increase or decrease the pedal resistance, you just need to twist your wrist. The mid-step frame provides the comfort of a step-over design while still making it easy to pop on and off, with an upright composition to better position you to see the road. You also get powered front and rear lighting, all-weather composite fenders in the front and rear, and loads of accessory mounts throughout the frame to let you customize your kit.

The Details: 53 pounds | 28 miles per hour top speed | 500-watt motor | 500-watt-hour battery | Mid-step

Related: The 12 Best Bike Racks for Safely Transporting your Bicycle

Best Cargo: Yuba Supercargo CL

Buy at Aroundthecycle.com

Buy at Yubabikes.com

This bike can haul up to 440 pounds of gear, and the variable configurations and storage options are nearly limitless.

In order to take full advantage of all that storage space, you’ll need to invest in a handful of add-ons, which ups the overall price.

Why settle for choosing between a front or a back cargo configuration when you can have both? Yuba’s Supercharge CL provides storage on both the tail and the ample front compartment, capable of hauling up to 440 pounds of cargo for gear-heavy or family trips . The frame construction and a directional cable help you handle the bike, even when fully loaded, and a 500-watt-hour provides ample pedal assist to keep things moving. A step-through design makes it easy to find your footing when needed, and the ten-speed Shimano gears move seamlessly to provide near-custom levels of tension. But the Supercargo CL really comes to life as you start to spec out your add-ons: you can go with a bamboo supercargo box or a baseboard for the front, a Thule Yepp Maxi Rack Mount kid’s seat on the back, or an open-loader box with an integrated kid’s seat for the front – and that’s just for starters. They also offer surfboard and ski racks, loads of side boards and trays, and baskets. 

The Details: 88 pounds | 440-pound maximum capacity | 500-watt motor | 500-watt-hour battery | Step-though

Best Lightweight: Carbo Belt Drive Folding E-Bike Model X

Buy at Ridecarbo.com

This bike collapses into one of the tightest packages available, with a robust 250-watt motor and commuter-friendly features like rear and front lights.

You may want to add a rear rack and fenders.

Weighing in at only 29 pounds, the Carbo Belt Drive Folding E-bike Model X targets commuters looking for a reliable ride with easy carrying and a small footprint for storage when not in use — an ideal solution where stairs and confined spaces are a daily reality. The all-carbon frame is powered on a 250-watt motor, running on a durable carbon belt that avoids any risk of grease stains.  Want more power? You can customize the bike with a bigger battery, a throttle feature, and a 350-watt motor. The folding aspect works with both the frame and the handlebar stem anchored by a magnet lock to keep the package secure. The tires use Carbo’s Balloonbike tech, which measure wider than average to improve comfort and smooth the ride without adding the excess weight of any suspension systems. A smart screen displays the data you want to track, including speed, battery length, distance, and the toggles for the five levels of pedal assist, and the battery can also be used to charge your devices via a USB port under the seat. The battery also powers a front headlight and a rear taillight, but, to keep things light, it doesn’t come with a rear rack or fenders, which some commuters may desire.

The Details: 29 pounds | 20 miles per hour top speed | 250-watt motor | 240-watt-hour battery | Step-though

Best Fat Tire: Aventon Aventure.2 Ebike

Buy at Aventon.com

Buy at Bestbuy.com

Outfitted with a 80-millimeter suspension fork, 4-inch-wide wheels, and a robust 750-watt motor, this bike will conquer all sorts of terrain, from mellow commutes to singletrack to snow-choked roads.

At 77 pounds, the bike is heavy.

Equipped with 4-inch fat tires and ready to haul up to 400 pounds, the Aventon Adventure.2 Ebike is a monster of a bike, able to conquer variable terrain with confidence. It runs on a 750-watt motor that can reach a max speed of 28 miles per hour and boasts a range of up to 60 miles on a single charge. A large, backlit LCD display provides ample data and lets you trigger the integrated lights, and the engine’s torque sensor intuitively provides the pedal support you need mid-ride, letting you switch from four levels of support along with a throttle feature to help you get moving quickly. A suspension fork with 80 millimeters of travel helps smooth the ride, and commuter-friendly features like rear and front fenders as well as a pre-installed rear rack adds utility. The bike even uses turn signals to help announce your intention electronically.

The Details: 77 pounds | 28 miles per hour top speed | 750-watt motor | 720-watt-hour battery | Step-over

Related: The 9 Best Bike Locks of 2024

Best for Families: Urban Arrow Family Performance Line

Buy at Urbanarrow.com

With two three-point seatbelts integrated into the front storage box and the ability to outfit the bike with loads of accessories, this is the car substitute families have yearned for.

Kitting out the bike with additional add-ons will increase the overall price point.

Built to replace the family car or minivan, the Urban Arrow Family e-bike uses a wide, front-loading EPP box that comes with two three-point seatbelts to let you haul your kids and other cargo with ease. An integrated light is mounted on the front wheel, and fenders at both the back and front provide protection from wet terrain, while the step-through design makes it easy to find your footing. The low center of gravity makes the bike easy to handle, with ample pedal assist and stepless gear shifting to keep the riding experience simple. You also benefit from Urban Arrow’s wide array of accessories and add-ons that let you add a rear rack, bench, a front rain cover, and more.

The Details: 110 pounds | 15.5 miles per hour top speed | 250-watt-motor | Battery: 500-watt-hour battery | Step-though

Best Tricycle: Sixthreezero EVRYjourney 250W Electric Tricycle

Buy at Sixthreezero.com

Providing a stable, balanced, and secure ride, this tricycle optimizes comfort, easy pedal-assist momentum — as well as a full-electric mode — and ample rear storage.

As with most tricycles, this bike requires lots of storage space when not in use, and it’s only suitable for riders between 5 feet and 6 feet, 2 inches tall.

The key difference between a standard bike and a tricycle like Sixthreezero’s EVRYjourney is stability — that third wheel provides a balanced, stable ride for all types of riders. You’ll also appreciate the ergonomic frame design, which helps reduce joint fatigue by keeping you positioned in a relaxed, tension-free posture. The dual-mode 250-watt motor lets you toggle between full electric (with a max speed of 15 miles per hour) and pedal-assist, which lets you reach speeds of up to 28 miles per hour. In the back sits a foldable wire basket, providing a generous amount of stable storage space, and the 2-inch-wide tires help absorb uneven terrain. All the electronic configurations are controlled with a LCD display screen with push buttons, and you can also sync the bike to a smart app to track your rides and dive into all kinds of other cycle data. It does come with front and rear fenders, but no integrated lights, and is best suited for cyclists who are between 5 feet and 6 feet, 2 inches tall.

The Details: 76 pounds | 28 miles per hour top speed | 250-watt motor | 250-watt-hour battery | Step-though

Tips for Buying an Electric Bike

Understand the different classes of electric bikes.

“There are three classes of e-bikes, and riders should determine what type of bike will best suit the kind of riding they intend to do,” says Alison Dewey, Education Director at the League of American Bicyclists. “Class one e-bikes have a pedal assist and a motor that cuts off when the rider reaches 20 miles per hour. Class two e-bikes have a pedal-assist and a throttle, the motor also cuts off after the rider reaches 20 miles per hour. Finally, a class three e-bike has a pedal assist and a motor that cuts off after the rider reaches 28 miles per hour.”

Consider your environment

If you live in a relatively flat locale and don’t have any ambitions to conquer a Colorado 14’er, you can likely get by with a lower-powered e-bike. But if you do encounter hills and other variables, you probably want a class three bike, which can reach max speeds of up to 28 miles per hour and will deliver assistance to help conquer challenging climbs.

Take your fitness into account

Unless you opt for an electric bike with a fully powered setting (meaning the bike runs entirely on its engine), chances are good that your bike will be a pedal-assist model, meaning that the engine provides additional forward momentum to supplement your pedaling, with the range of support varying based on what setting you select. So you still have to be able to pedal, which requires physical effort. E-bikes do make it easier to go further, and faster, than a traditional bike, and they’re great for conquering steep hills, but be sure you can pedal a bike for a reasonable amount of time. Most e-bikes also work in full manual mode, though given that these bikes are almost always heavier than a regular bike, expect to expel more energy and effort to pedal unassisted.

Overestimate the range you’ll need

An e-bike’s range can be influenced by a number of factors, including the weather, the amount of energy you’re providing by pedaling, the mode of pedal-assist you select, your weight, the bike’s weight, whether or not there are winds, and whether or not there are hills — factors that make it almost impossible to predict how long a battery will last, or the max distance a bike can cover. You’re best off measuring the distance of your average ride (say, to and from work), and then adding another third to the equation so you’ll always have a charge.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast can an electric bike go?

“E-bikes can go pretty fast, and pretty slow — they can go the speed the rider is most comfortable with,” says Dewey. “The motor will only assist the rider up to 20 miles per hour on class one and two e-bikes, but the bike can go faster.” Class three e-bikes top out at 28 miles per hour.

How do electric bikes work?

“ Most e-bikes work by assisting the rider’s effort with a motor,” says Dewey, describing pedal assist, which typically has a series of modes from eco (modest additional momentum) to higher speeds. Some also come with a boost function to help you get up to speed faster, and a few operate entirely by the motor, albeit at a lesser speed than you’d achieve with pedal assist. Most e-bikes also come with disc brakes, which deliver more stopping power.

Do you need a license for an electric bike?

It depends on where you live as each state classifies e-bikes following their own guidelines. Check with your local DMV, and also take note of any other requirements — some states require e-bike riders to wear helmets, and there might be a minimum age restriction as well.

How do you ride an electric bike?

E-bikes ride just like regular bikes, only they reach higher speeds and also reach those speeds faster than you would on a traditional bike. But e-bikes are also heavier than normal bikes due to the inclusion of a motor and battery, which can make them a bit awkward to carry or push when you’re not riding.

Can you ride electric bikes in the rain?

Yes — otherwise the utility of an electric bike would be severely limited. The electronic components that could suffer from moisture are water-resistant, and also typically encased in waterproof materials to shelter them from any damage or exposure. So you can ride in the rain, navigate through puddles, and wash your e-bike with confidence. That said, if you encounter water that’s deeper than the height of your motor and battery, turn off the power completely and walk it through, trying as much as possible to keep the motor and battery dry. And wait for them to completely dry before turning it back on.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Nathan Borchelt has been rating, testing, and reviewing outdoor and travel products for decades, and is also a life-long cycling enthusiast. He conducted expensive research and culled through the reviews of verified customers in the process of making the final selections. For this story, he also talked with Alison Dewey , Education Director at the League of American Bicyclists on all the considerations that should be taken into account when selecting an e-bike.

Related: The 12 Best Bike Lights of 2024

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Posted 2024-03-13 19:36

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Trek FUEL 9.8 Carbon Full Suspension Mountain Bike. MEDIUM. SRAM GX 12 - $3,800 (Irvine)

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