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Trek Farley 5 - 2023

Trek Farley 5

Farley 5 is the ultimate go-anywhere fat bike. Arctic tundra? Farley's game. Sandy desert singletrack? Farley's lofty tires will keep you afloat. A winter bikepacking mission through rugged terrain? Sounds like a walk in the park. Farley's all-new geometry is more capable than ever with a slacker head tube angle for more stability and a steeper seat tube angle for pedaling efficiency and comfortable reach. Up front, its carbon fork is loaded with tons of mounts, so you'll be able to load up gear for the adventure of your dreams. - All the mounts make it easy to add accessories and customize Farley for how you want to roam. - It comes with a carbon fork that has lower leg mounts for gear cages, mounts for our custom front rack, and rubber bumpers to protect the dropouts when the front wheel is removed. - Its huge 4.5-inch tires will keep you floating over snow, sand, mud, and dirt, - The new progressive trail geometry feels more capable and confident than ever. - The internally routed dropper post lets you move around on the bike and get behind the saddle on steep descents.

Geometry

Due to supply-chain issues, Specs are subject to change without notice.

* Subject to change without notice.

Part Numbers

Trek Farley 5 Color: Satin Blue Sage to Lithium Grey Fade

Bikepacking Alliance

2023 Trek Farley 5 Review

Are you looking for a reliable and efficient fat bike to conquer muddy and snowy terrain? Look no further than the new 2023 Trek Farley 5, a sure-footed bike designed with strength and comfort in mind.

The 2023 Trek Farley 5 is an all-rounder fat bike, capable of tackling any terrain – wet, icy or rocky. The bike features a lightweight Alpha Platinum Aluminum frame combined with 27.5 inch wheels, which allow for smooth maneuverability while travelling over sketchy surfaces.

Additionally, the 27.5×4.5 inch fat tires provide excellent traction and stability on snow or other slippery surfaces.

2023 Trek Farley 5 Review

Designed for adventure seekers across all skill levels, the 2023 Trek Farley 5 offers an unparalleled outdoor performance machine. This overview will provide an in depth look into the design elements and performance characteristics of this fat bike wonder machine – from frame components to wheel sizes and tire types that make it incredibly capable off road. So read on to see what makes this bicycle such a reliable winter companion!

2023 Trek Farley 5 Review

The Trek Farley 5 is a fat bike that has been the answer to many of today’s backcountry cyclists’ dreams. A few years ago, it burst onto the scene with its reliable construction, lightweight frame and fat tires. It has become a favorite among adventurers as well as those with an eye for extreme mountain biking.

The 2023 Trek Farley 5 is the perfect bikepacking adventure companion. This mountain bike offers superior handling on even the toughest trails. Built with lightweight aluminum, it’s the perfect companion for weekend traverses or extended off-road rides.

2023 Trek Farley 5 Review

With features like thru-axles, reliable disc brakes and ample mud clearance, it can handle any terrain you put it up against. The Farley 5 is also compatible with a variety of frame bags, providing you with plenty of room for long distance journeys.

– Lightweight Alpha Platinum Aluminum frame for superior handling and performance

– 197x12mm adjustable horizontal sliding dropouts

– Bontrager Haru fork, tapered alloy steerer, OCLV Carbon lowers

– Having Bontrager Gnarwhal Team Issue 27.5″x4.5″ fat tires allows you to go faster on groomed or packed snow.

– Reliable Shimano Deore 1×10 drivetrain featuring a 28t chainring on the Race Face Ride crank paired to a 10-46t cassette

– SRAM Level hydraulic disc brakes offer reliable stopping power in all conditions

– Compatible with suspension forks with up to 100mm of travel

2023 Trek Farley 5 Review

Despite several updated models entering this specific market over the last couple of years, the 2023 Trek Farley 5 remains one of the top dogs when it comes to fat bike performance. Here’s a look at what we can expect from this bike:

The Trek Farley 5 frame is constructed from Alpha Platinum Aluminium, which makes for an incredibly light build that can tackle any terrain you throw at it. It features a horizontal sliding rear dropout to adjust your chainstay length — giving you ultimate control over nearly any kind of terrain imaginable.

2023 Trek Farley 5 Review

Equipped with Shimano Deore shifters and derailleurs, along with RaceFace crankset and 28t chainring and 10-46t 10 speed cassette; you have all the necessary components to make your way through tight switchbacks or across heaps of rocks without hesitation.

2023 Trek Farley 5 Review

For stopping power, the 2023 Trek Farley 5 features SRAM Level hydraulic disc brakes that give great stopping power without sacrificing feel or weight.

2023 Trek Farley 5 Review

Wheels & Tires

This model comes standard with tubeless ready Bontrager Gnarwhal Team Issue 27.5×4.5 tires on SUNRingle Mulefut 80 SL wheels — providing plenty of grip while maintaining low-pressure traction over just about any terrain you encounter out there on the trail.

2023 Trek Farley 5 Review

Additional Features

Additional features include a Boost 148/110 Rapid Drive hub gives you nearly instant acceleration instead of a clunky lag when you step on the pedals. And the Bontrager Evoke saddle mounted to a TranzX dropper post keeps you comfortable. All this weighing in at just 32.3lbs.

Overall, the Trek Farley 5 is an exceptional fat bike set up for those who want to ride hard and take on challenging rides in style – all at an impressive price point for what it offers! 

Whether you’re looking for comfort climbs or some technical descents, this awesome setup will get you where you need to go quickly and easily!

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

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UpPedal

Trek Farley 5 Review – Is This Bike Worth Buying?

Fat bikes are here to stay. From a niche market among riders who wanted to explore the limits of biking snow, ice, and sand, they’ve expanded into the mainstream, taking over a significant share of the mountain bike market. Fat bikes don’t just offer the ability to ride with security on loose or slick surfaces. They can ride anywhere a conventional mountain bike can. Those huge tires soak up bumps without the need for expensive suspension. Beginners love the stability and traction, and a lot of people just love the look.

trek farley 5

Image: Trek Farley 5

The Farley is Trek’s entry in the fat bike market, and the bikes in the Farley series show all of the experience and sophistication of the Trek brand. The Farley 5 is an affordable fat bike that brings real value to the table.

Let’s see how Trek’s entry in the sub-$2000 fat bike market stacks up.

Quick Overview: What I Think of the Trek Farley 5

Simple answer: it’s a great bike. It’s all you’d expect from Trek. The frame is well designed and beautifully built. The components deliver high performance at an accessible price. The whole package is a first class blend of performance and affordability and it will certainly satisfy anyone who buys it and rides it.

The Farley 5 is a great bike for the price, but it sits in a market niche that is absolutely saturated with great bikes. The $1500-2100 range is a sweet spot for fat bikes, with numerous contenders from reputable manufacturers. The Farley 5 is a fine bike for the price, but whether it’s the best bike for the price is less certain.

Let’s take a closer look.

What You Get

Like every bike, the Farley 5 is a package of components. Let’s see what this $1799 fat bike brings to the table.

Trek’s aluminum frames are of the highest quality, and the Farley frame is no exception. The design is sleek and understated: no swirly hydroformed tubes, just a well, built, businesslike frame.

The Farley’s geometry is designed for versatility and all-around use. The welds are flawless and the paint job superb. Shifting cables and the dropper post hydraulics are internally routed. The horizontal dropout is ready for geared or single speed use and allows some tweaking of the wheelbase. You can lengthen the distance between the wheels for greater stability or shorten it if you’re after quick handling. The small size will fit riders down to 5 feet tall and the XXL will accommodate riders up to 6’8”.

Like most fat bikes at this price range, the Farley 5 mounts its front wheel on a rigid fork, relying on the monster tires to soak up trail bumps. The Farley 5 carries a Bontrager carbon fork, which is solid and durable and peels a bit of weight off the full package relative to aluminum-forked competitors.

The drivetrain is built on mid-range products from premier manufacturers. The crankset is the Race Face Ride, the chain is from KMC. For the critical shifter, derailleur, and cassette, Trek turns to Shimano’s Deore series components.

Premium drivetrain manufacturers Shimano and SRAM have long used a trickle-down approach to technology: the latest developments go into the most expensive products, and the technology they replace is passed on down the chain. That process has left the mid-range products performing so well that many riders are questioning the need to pay the very substantial price premium on the high-end component lines. These components may not have high-end bling but they are reliable, effective, and easy to use.

Some riders might question the use of a 1×10-speed drivetrain when 1×11 or 1×12 are preferred by many competitors. In practice, the range of gears makes more difference than the number of choices within that range. The 1×10 drivetrain on the Farley 5 has a range from 11 teeth on the smallest rear ring to 46 teeth on the largest ring. That is only marginally different from the 11-50 range on the 12-speed drivetrain featured on the $2600 Farley 7. If climbing very steep hills is on your agenda you might want those 4 extra teeth but most riders will barely notice the difference.

The SRAM Level hydraulic disc brakes and 160mm Avid CleanSweep rotors on the Farley 5 are not top-of-the-line models, but it would take a very demanding rider to spot the differences. You will have no problem controlling your speed.

Choosy riders who ride at high speeds or on steep terrain might want to swap the 160mm rotors out for larger models, particularly in the front. It’s an easy upgrade, but for most riders it won’t be necessary. Remember that braking technique gives you a lot more control than pure stopping power.

The Farley 5 carries 27.5” wheels. Add the extra diameter of the oversized tires and the total functioning diameter will be close to that of a conventional 29” wheel. That lets you hold momentum and roll over obstacles, but may compromise nimble handling. That won’t bother most riders: fat bikes are designed to plow over obstacles, not to dodge around them.

The wheels are built around Bontrager hubs, which carry Bontrager’s Switch through axle system for extra rigidity, and SunRingle Mulefut rims. The Bontrager Gnarwhal 4.5 tires are serious pieces of rubber even by fat bike standards, and get high marks for traction and stability. These are fairly aggressive tires aimed at trail or soft-surface riding, and if you plan to use them on cement you may experience noticeable tire drag.

Other Components

Trek sticks with Bontrager to fill out the parts catalog, sourcing the saddle, handlebar, grips and stem from the same manufacturer.

There are two notable components in the cockpit. The TranzX dropper post lets you raise and lower your saddle on the fly, a great feature on rolling terrain with frequent transitions between climbing and descending. The Bontrager Blendr stem allows easy mounting of accessories like lights, GPS, bike computers, or a GoPro or similar camera.

Some user reviews have mentioned that the saddle is uncomfortable, but saddles are very personal and no saddle will please everyone. If you have a favored model of saddle it’s always worth fitting it on a new bike, especially if the stock saddle doesn’t agree with your backside!

Component Roundup

The components on the Farley 5 are what you’d expect from a mid-range bike from a premium manufacturer. They are of high quality and they will do their jobs very well. If you get a chance to try out the top of the line models you may wonder if the difference in performance justifies the difference in price.

Let’s rate the Farley 5 component mix relative to other fat bikes in the $1500-2000 range.

Performance

The trail is where it all comes together, and specifications don’t matter if performance doesn’t match up. The Farley 5 lives to its specifications. It feels comfortable from the start and invites you to push it. It won’t accelerate like a greyhound – no fat bike will – but the 27.5” wheels hold momentum and if the big wheels carry an agility penalty it’s barely noticeable.

One of the highest praises you can give a bike is to say you hardly notice that it’s there. When you’re riding, you don’t want to think about your components. When everything is right, you forget the bike and focus on the trail because you trust the bike to do what it’s meant to do. The Farley 5 fits into this category. Take it for a trail spin and you’ll probably come back without much to say about the bike, because the bike lets you focus on the trail. That’s what you want it to do.

The drivetrain and brakes on the Farley 5 will come as a pleasant surprise, and you might find it hard to believe that you’re riding a bike with mid-range components. The shifting is smooth and precise, the gear range is entirely adequate, and having 10 gears instead of 11 or 12 is not a noticeable liability.

There are a few potential limitations to recognize. The Gnarwhal 4.5 tires are truly beefy. You’ll appreciate them on rough, loose, or slick surfaces, but they may feel like tank treads on cement. If you’re looking for a trail/town combo bike you might want to use some less aggressive rubber. The gear range might be a limitation if your riding includes a lot of steep climbs.

The Competition

The Farley 5 is a fine fat bike, but it sits at a price point that embraces quite a few fine fat bikes. Let’s look at some of the other players and how they stack up compared to the Farley 5.

The 2021 Norco Bigfoot 2 is hitting retailers at $1600 and carries specifications very similar to those of the Farley 5: 27.5” wheels, aggressive tires, SRAM Level brakes (with a 180mm front rotor), a Shimano Deore 1×12 drivetrain, and the same TranzX dropper post. You won’t get a carbon fork, though.

The Kona Wo gets a price hike for 2021 and comes in at exactly the same price point as the Farley 5. It carries an 11-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain, an aluminum fork, and Shimano hydraulic disc brakes. It carries 26” wheels, which could be an advantage to some riders and a disadvantage to others.

The KHS 4 Season 1000 includes a carbon-fork model for $1599 and a model wearing a Manitou Mastodon suspension fork for $1899. The drivetrain is an 11-speed Shimano SLX, a step up from the Deore, and the Shimano hydraulic disc brakes have a 180mm front rotor. There’s a KS dropper post, but some other components, notably the crank, are a step down. Wheel size is 26”.

The Salsa Mukluk has dropped to $1699 for its entry level model. The bike comes with an aluminum fork, 11-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain, Tektro hydraulic brakes, and 26” wheels with the highly regarded 45NRTH Dillinger 4.6” tires.

The Giant Yukon 1 pushes the price envelope slightly at $2100, but carries an upscale component package that includes a SRAM NX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain, SRAM Level T brakes, carbon fork, dropper post, and 27.5” wheels with Maxxis Colossus 4.5” wheels.

All of these are good bikes. Trek’s Farley 5 is a strong contender in this niche, but you’ll have to decide whether it’s the best choice for you. It’s a fun choice because you really can’t go wrong: any of these bikes will serve you well!

The Bottom Line

If you’re shopping for a fat bike and you have $1799 in your pocket you can buy a Farley 5 and ride away happy. If you’re shopping, though, you’ll still have to decide whether you could get a better deal elsewhere.

The Farley 5 has plus points: a carbon fork, 27.5” wheels, a dropper post, solid components, and an outstanding level of design and build quality. There are also features that could push you toward the competition. If you’re looking for 26” wheels, a wider range of gearing options, a bigger brake rotor in front, or even a suspension fork, you can find all of them on a bike in the same price range.

The choice comes down to which features are most important to you. The best option is narrow your list down to a few choices and test ride the contenders, if you can. Your final decision is likely to come down to personal feelings about each bike’s handling and looks.

If you’re not a selective shopper and you want a good fat bike fast, you could just grab a Farley 5 in your size. You’re not likely to regret the choice!

Let’s evaluate the Farley 5’s overall quality relative to other fat bikes in its price range.

trek farley 5

Trek Farley 5 vs. 7 vs. 9.6 – 2021

trek farley 5

As Trek fat bike riders get ready for 2021, the big debate is surrounded around which one makes the most sense. Every person has different needs, and it can be challenging to find what bike fits into a particular lifestyle.

All three Trek Farley options are great to have, but getting too much of a bike can be a quick way to spend a lot more money than anybody wants to spend.

When looking at the Trek Farley 5 , 7, and 9.6, are they all worth the investment in 2021? All bring different qualities to the table with different price points.

It is a matter of finding a quality fit for each individual, and then graduating to something better when the time comes. Some will start at the Farley 5, while seasoned riders will jump to a more sophisticated option.

Trek Farley 5

trek farley 5

The 2021 Trek Farley 5 is expected to be a big seller once again thanks to its affordable price, brand name recognition, and overall performance.

Like previous models from Trek, this one is all about getting people into fat bike riding with a durable entry-level option. Some people will stick with this for quite a while, while others will use it as simply a bike to get started before graduating to something else.

Riders love the fact that they will be able to get quite a bit of value out of a bike like this without having to spend a ton of money. It does not have the best components ever, but it is still a lightweight aluminum frame including a dropper post that is pretty comfortable.

The carbon fork smooths out the ride, and other high-level components make this a bike that seems well worth the money. Some people have a very hard time finding anything like this under $2000, but Trek has always made the Farley 5 a pretty affordable option overall.

Who Is The Farley 5 for?

Anyone who is getting into fat biking for the first time does not need to spend an arm and a leg on the best of the best. This is affordably priced for people who want to ride all year round, as they can handle the snow or the dirt with ease.

The traction is outstanding, the geometry of the bike is great, and it just feels very comfortable no matter where a person goes.

Even advanced riders could find a lot of value in the Trek Farley 5, as it could be used as a training bike or one that does not have to be treated quite as well.

Having multiple bikes can preserve the better one’s life, and it still provides a good amount of value for riders who want something consistent. It is always worth checking out if this is something that can financially be accomplished.

Is It Worth The Price?

Having a fat bike that can truly be ridden during all four seasons certainly helps. Some fat bikes are a little more geared towards a specific type of riding, and it can be frustrating for people who are starting out. This will not necessarily replace every other need for a bike, but some people will only use this one no matter what they are doing.

The components that a person gets with this Farley 5 is certainly great as well. The Shimano Deore 1×10 drivetrain is outstanding, and the wheels that come with the bike by default work very well also.

The components will not really be that much of a difference compared to some of the higher-level options, making it a great bang for the buck overall.

Is The Farley 5 The Best Fat Bike For The Price?

If the goal is to stay on budget, the Trek Farley 5 is the way to go. It is going to be one of the best value fat bikes out there, and it still provides enough benefits that people will use it for a long time without issues.

Those looking for a more specific type of fat bike riding, or wanting better components overall, will be better off looking at the Farley 7 or the Farley 9.6.

It is not as though the Farley 5 is terrible, it is just not going to get that same level of overall feel and grip that people are hoping for.

Trek Farley 7 2021

trek farley 5

The best way to describe the Farley 7 is that it feels a lot like a traditional mountain bike, but with a fat bike build overall. It handles very well on all different types of surfaces, but it has that ability to feel very comfortable on sand or snow.

The geometry is a little sportier compared to the Farley 5, and better components across-the-board make it a solid option as well.

It is a matter of making a few sacrifices with any mid tier range and hoping that it works out for the best. People know that they are not going to get the fastest fat bike out there. But they are still going to control the weight and get to where they want to be in an efficient manner.

Being able to climb and go downhill makes a big difference for riders as well, and the Trek Farley 7 2021 does exactly that.

Who Is The Farley 7 For?

People who really want versatility will love this mid-tier option from Trek. It can perform well in just about any situation, and it really keeps a person on the right track when going downhill. With a strong all-around build, it is something that is definitely one of the best values out there.

Another huge positive with this bike is that it has a great suspension fork that provides good overall comfort. Having a fork that can be very dependable on all different types of rides truly helps out.

It is not the most agile fat bike a person can find in this price range, but its versatility with a fork and a dropper post makes it one worth testing out.

It is still user-friendly enough for beginners, but the price range might be a little too much for people to jump on right away. This is why the Trek Farley 7 caters to a slightly more sophisticated crowd, but one that does not feel like they need to go all the way to the top in the price range.

Is The Trek Farley 7 Worth The Price?

The price is very much justified because of all the different components that make up his bike. Not only does it perform well from a cruising and exploration standpoint, but the little things like the tires they come with and the crankset matter as well.

People sometimes find it very difficult to find a bike that is ready to go from the very beginning, but a person does not need to make any other upgrades to get it going as it should.

Durability also makes it a true one-time investment for a lot of people, which certainly makes the price point that much more tolerable.

It is never easy to make a huge purchase for any type of bike riding, even if a person knows they will use it almost every day. Getting quality components from the very beginning ensures that a person does not have to replace components and make some tweaks along the way constantly. That can make an already expensive bike that much tougher to maintain.

If the bike has a little bit more carbon on it, it would be the best value out there. Some companies out there do put a bit more carbon on their mid tier option, which means a slightly lighter and more comfortable ride.

With that being said, it is still one of the best options out there with the Alpha Platinum Aluminum Frame.

Is the Farley 7 The Best Fat Bike For The Price?

The Farley 7 is a little bit more expensive than some of the others in this price range, but its versatility and well-rounded performance make it one of the very best.

There might be companies out there that offer better fat bikes at a lower cost, but brand recognition does make a bit of a difference.

One thing to keep in mind is that getting the opportunity to get this fixed at a local bike shop is much easier thanks to the Trek brand. Since so many places are very familiar with the brand, it is easy to slip in and get work done correctly right away.

Trek Farley 9.6 2021

trek farley 5

As the most expensive of the three options in 2021, the Trek Farley 9.6 better live up to expectations. The good news is that this carbon fat bike is one of the best options for its price, even if it is over $3000 retail.

It is not for everyone, as beginner riders will not get that much value out of it, but it definitely brings a lot to the table.

Is The Farley 9.6 Worth The Price?

It really comes down to how often a person rides a fat bike, and if they are looking for performance that can take things to another level.

Spending over $3000 on a fat bike might seem absolutely crazy to some people. For others, they know that this is a pretty expensive sport overall, and a person needs to pay for quality.

Considering all that it brings the table, getting some of the top technology out there right now and a fat bike is worth the extra price.

The first thing people notice when they get a chance to ride the Farley 9.6 is that it is built for speed on any surface type. It is a very light and fast ride overall, and the tires are built to handle just about anything thrown its way.

Being able to knife through different surfaces is certainly a huge advantage, but will keep things lightweight because there is all sorts of carbon on the bike.

Having a bike that is truly built for all four seasons helps tremendously. Some people will invest in two different fat bikes so that they can go riding throughout the year.

That is not necessary in the scenario, as the bike can do just about anything so the riders are having a fun time.

Little things such as the dropper post that allow for a way to lower the saddle, and horizontal sliding dropouts that can help people get the right geometry make a difference.

There are plenty of customizable options with this bike, and anyone who really wants to take their riding to the next level should make sure that they are giving every single thing a try.

Who Is The Trek Farley 9.6 For?

Performance riders in the fat bike community will love how this bike is positioned to succeed at all costs. It really feels like a totally different bike compared to some of the entry-level options, as the Farley 9.6 can make a huge difference with all the carbon. Not everyone is going to appreciate the difference truly, but people pay a premium for a reason.

Even beginners will still find it to be fairly nice to ride around since it does not have a huge learning curve. The 27.5-inch fat bike tires are very efficient, as people want to roll fast and have that level control they are looking for.

It does not overcomplicate fat bike riding in general, which is great for people who just want to go out there and tackle what is in front of them.

Price will hold up some people, but what they are paying for mostly comes down to the OCLV Mountain carbon. This is a mountain-specific carbon fiber with a few unique materials thanks to what Trek has worked on over the years.

They went through a lot of testing to make sure that this is a build that a lot of people will get plenty of use out of.

What Makes The Farley 9.6 Worth The Price?

Carbon is hard to argue with when it comes to any bike out there. Having carbon fiber built specifically for mountain bike riding makes this a fat bike worth checking out.

It is nearly indestructible and will provide a comfortable, lightweight ride, and it keeps people stable at all times. That for many is worth the price alone, as people are pushing speeds and trying tough trails to push their limits.

This is a bike with all the premium touches, and that is just about anything that a person can ask for. There are fat bikes out there that charge more, but no one will have a usable bike out there that does much better than this.

Trek has been able to fine tune the 9.6 over the years, and now they feel like it is one of the best values a person could find as long as they are willing to push the limits and see what it brings to the table.

Is The Trek Farley 9.6 The Best Fat Bike In That Price Range?

The usual competitors are once again putting up strong challenges to the Trek Farley 9.6. Whether it is Salsa, Giant , Rocky Mountain, or any other company for that matter, competition continues to get tougher and tougher.

Just like all the other Farley options, there is something to be said for buying such an expensive bike that is also well known in case anything goes wrong.

Repairs can get pretty expensive if the bike is really rare as it is much better to go with a trusted brand that has years of reputation delivering what people have come to expect.

Final Comparison

It can be confusing for some people to try to figure out what Farley bike from Trek makes the most sense for them. They all bring something different to the table, but those who can afford it should probably look at the Farley 7.

It seems to be the most versatile option overall, and it is a bit cheaper than the Farley 9.6. It is not going to be perfect for every type of rider out there, but enough people will get value out of it that makes it worthwhile.

If possible, try to get a chance to ride on any of these fat bikes first to see how they feel. There will always be opportunities to make some tweaks along the way, but a person can get a pretty good idea with an easy ride.

Most bike stores will allow this, and there is not a need to buy the bike from them in the end. The best prices are found online in most cases, but getting a chance to at least see the style up close is worthwhile. Since Trek is such a popular brand, a lot of companies carry these bikes as well.

Whatever a person goes with, they will have the opportunity to have a solid fat bike for a long time. They can hold up for very long periods of time, and that is all people can ask for in the end.

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Trek Farley 5

  • AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

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

At a glance

Where to buy.

Trek Logo

Specifications

  • Frame Alpha Platinum Aluminum, E2 tapered head tube, internal derailleur & dropper post routing, PF121, 197mm Stranglehold adjustable thru axle dropouts
  • Fork Alpha Platinum Aluminum, 135mm spacing, IS brake mount, E2 tapered aluminum steerer, 100mm suspension corrected
  • Wheels Bontrager alloy hubs, SUNringlé Mulefüt 80mm w/cutout rims
  • Wheel Size 26"
  • Tires Bontrager Barbegazi Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, 120tpi, aramid bead, 26x4.7"
  • Crank Race Face , Race Face Ride, 36/22
  • Bottom Bracket BB86/BB92, 121mm, press-fit
  • Front Derailleur SRAM X5, SRAM X5, low direct mount
  • Rear Derailleur Shimano Deore, Shimano Deore, Shadow Plus
  • Shifters Shimano Deore, Shimano Deore, 10 speed
  • Brakeset SRAM , SRAM DB1 hydraulic disc
  • Handlebar Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, 15mm rise
  • Saddle Bontrager Evoke 1.5
  • Seatpost Bontrager alloy, 2-bolt head, 31.6mm, 8mm offset
  • Stem Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, 7 degree, Blendr compatible
  • Headset FSA IS-2, E2, sealed alloy cartridge

Q: Where to buy a 2016 Trek Farley 5?

The 2016 Trek Farley 5 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: What size wheels does the 2016 Trek Farley 5 have?

The 2016 Trek Farley 5 has 26" wheels.

Q: What size 2016 Trek Farley 5 should I get?

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Salsa Mukluk NX1 vs Trek Farley 5

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Hi Everyone, I'm looking to get my first fat bike. Planning to get this primarily to use when riding with my kids. Currently I've been riding with my son or daughter on a child seat in the front of my XC bike. My son has just about hit the weight limit for the front seat. In order to move him into a rear-mounted seat I need a bike that can accept the bracket from the Thule Ridealong , or a bike that can handle the Thule rear bike rack for the Thule Yepp Next Maxi . The two bikes I'm looking at are the Salsa Mukluk NX1 and the Trek Farley 5. I'm hoping to get some advice on which build might be better. Also, it's really important that the bike accept a rear rack just in case there isn't room on the seat tube for the Ridelaong. The Salsa can take a rear rack, but I'm not sure about the Trek. One LBS near me is a Trek dealer, but I haven't gotten a definitive answer on whether the Farley can take a rear rack from the salespeople. Anyone know the answer? I couldn't find any info about it on Trek's website. Thanks!  

I have a Farley 5. You can mount a rear rack but you have to buy a seat post clamp with added holes for mounting the upper rack mounts to. If that makes sense 🙂 (Salsa Rack Lock its called) Iv’e mounted a Salsa Alternator rack. But that rack holds max 30 pound / 15 kilogram.  

Dennis1987 said: Iv'e mounted a Salsa Alternator rack. But that rack holds max 30 pound / 15 kilogram. Click to expand...

trek farley 5

I have the '17 Mukluk and similarly to the Trek, a salsa seat collar is needed for the upper mount. I think you will struggle on either bike with the Thule Yepp, looking at it mounting below the seat and needing a rack. Which is a better bike, the farley is 27.5 inch wheel, which 'limits' you tyre choice slightly. I was considering the Farley 5 myself, until the Salsa came up in a bargain discount sale. I was really surprised by the Salsa's (I have a carbon everything 9:zero:7 as my primary bike) straight out the box capabilties, I have changed is front and rear rotors to 180mm, tubelessed the tyres and swapped the grips.  

Flying_Scotsman said: I was really surprised by the Salsa's (I have a carbon everything 9:zero:7 as my primary bike) straight out the box capabilties, I have changed is front and rear rotors to 180mm, tubelessed the tyres and swapped the grips. Click to expand...

Personally I'd get a trailer for taking your kid(s) along. The seats are quickly out grown and also result in a higher center of gravity that makes riding more difficult for you. I used a burley trailer for my kids (room for 2), and now have used it for touring/bike packing. Its also very flexible to move between bikes. As for the better bike, they are both good. I have the slightly older Mukluk GX1. Love the bike and ride it year round. Agree that the 26" wheels have more tire choices. Both bikes are flexible to take a second wheelset such as a 29+  

The reason I'm attracted to the bike seats is that the kids get a feel for leaning and balance on a bike. At least that's my hope. This Burley is pretty tempting though. This can be attached to any bike with a 12mm thru axle regardless of frame material or suspension, right? My XC has an aluminum rear triangle and is full sus. Thanks  

This looks pretty cool too. Does that attach to the seat post? Or the collar?  

Has anyone used a Burley Trailer with either of these fat bikes?  

Not used it but having had a quick look it should work out fine on the mukluk, you just need the thru-axle adaptor that looks like its a Robert Axle project piece. You might need to also slide the drop outs back slightly, but thats straightforward.  

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trek farley 5

Farley lets you go further and farther than ever before — it’s your overnight adventure rig, your off-season ripper, and your snowy singletrack surfer. With tons of mounts for gear, an incredible carrying capacity, and loads of add-ons like frame bags and racks, Farley makes every dream expedition possible.

  • Watch the Walkthrough

Haul of the wild

Mounts all over the frame let you carry a wide variety of gear with endless customization options.

New carbon fork

A new, short offset carbon fork saves weight, improves handling, and has mounts for a custom rack or cargo cages.

Internal routing

Protects Farley’s components from the elements and keeps cables from interfering with accessories

Farley 9.6 utilizes a carry-forward OCLV Mountain Carbon frame with the new carbon fork that makes the rig light and fast — perfect for riders looking to race or just save weight.

Farley 9 comes fully kitted as a utilitarian earth roamer. It includes front and rear racks, a direct mount frame bag, a direct mount fender, and two dry bag holders for your rear rack.

Farley 7 comes with an 80mm Manitou Mastodon suspension fork to take the edge off rough terrain. The suspension fork also gives Farley a slacker head tube angle for more stable steering in steeper terrain.

Farley 5 gives you a blank slate. It has Farley-specific carbon fork and is compatible with all of the Farley accessories and more. It even comes with a dropper post.

COMMENTS

  1. Farley 5

    Farley 5 is a value-priced fat bike with a lightweight aluminum frame, a 1x Shimano drivetrain, and wide tires for traction and stability. It comes in four sizes and two colors, and has rack mounts, dropouts, and a dropper post.

  2. Farley 5

    Farley 5 is a versatile and capable fat bike that can handle snow, sand, mud, and dirt. It features a carbon fork with plenty of mounts, a dropper post, and a wide-range drivetrain for adventure riding.

  3. Trek Farley 5 Review

    A comprehensive review of the Trek Farley 5, an affordable and capable fat bike for snowy trails. Learn about its performance, build, components, pros and cons, and how it compares to other models.

  4. Trek Farley 5

    Trek; Farley 5 Trek Farley 5 - 2023 $2,399.99. $2,699.99. Color: Satin Blue Sage to Lithium Grey Fade Size: Select size. Small Medium Large X-Large Wheel Size: 27.5-inch Availability: Please select options Unavailable. Shipping options Deliver to Address. This item is eligible for delivery in select areas. View available options in checkout.

  5. 2024 Trek Farley 5

    2024 Trek. Farley 5. A 27.5″ aluminum frame rigid fat bike with upper mid-range components. Compare the full range. Manufacturer Price. $2,199. Weight:

  6. 2022 Trek Farley 5

    The Trek Farley 5 is one of the least expensive models in this review and a great value for a capable fat bike. Price aside, this bike has a solid... Read Review. Trek's Farley 7 Is an All-Season Fat Bike. Apr 2020. A dropper post, suspension fork, and exceptional handling help this fat bike perform long after the snow melts.

  7. Trek Farley 5 2018 Review

    A fast-rolling fat bike that operates with loads of momentum and excellent traction. The Farley 5 is a solid value at $1799, but requires muscle to get it to respond quickly and has weak brakes.

  8. Farley 5

    Farley 5 is our best value fat bike and the perfect gateway to all-season freedom. It rolls over snow, sand, roots, and rocks with the stability and traction of a monster truck on beefy 27.5x4.5˝ tires. A 1x Shimano drivetrain, lightweight aluminum frame, and carbon fork make it a great choice for anyone who wants to ride a mountain bike year ...

  9. 2023 Trek Farley 5 Review

    Learn about the features and performance of the 2023 Trek Farley 5, a lightweight and versatile fat bike for any terrain. See how it handles, brakes, shifts and rolls with Bontrager tires and wheels.

  10. 2016 Trek Farley 5

    One Ride Review: Trek Farley Fat Bike makes it easy to go big. While Zach and Tim are seasoned fat bike riders, I was uninitiated. So, on a short trip to Ohio to do a little long term editorial planning, I borrowed a Trek Farley from the local shop and Zach planned a ride. Being a basically all-29er-all-the-time (with suspension) type mountain ...

  11. 2017 Trek Farley 5

    Specs, reviews & prices for the 2017 Trek Farley 5. Compare forks, shocks, wheels and other components on current and past MTBs. View and share reviews, comments and questions on mountain bikes. Huge selection of mountain bikes from brands such as Trek, Specialized, Giant, Santa Cruz, Norco and more.

  12. Trek Farley 5 Review

    Image: Trek Farley 5. The Farley is Trek's entry in the fat bike market, and the bikes in the Farley series show all of the experience and sophistication of the Trek brand. The Farley 5 is an affordable fat bike that brings real value to the table. Let's see how Trek's entry in the sub-$2000 fat bike market stacks up. Quick Overview: What ...

  13. Farley 5

    Farley 5 is a value-priced fat bike that can ride over snow, sand, roots, and rocks with stability and traction. It has a 1x Shimano drivetrain, Bontrager wheels and tires, and a TranzX dropper post.

  14. 2017 Trek Farley 5

    One Ride Review: Trek Farley Fat Bike makes it easy to go big. While Zach and Tim are seasoned fat bike riders, I was uninitiated. So, on a short trip to Ohio to do a little long term editorial planning, I borrowed a Trek Farley from the local shop and Zach planned a ride. Being a basically all-29er-all-the-time (with suspension) type mountain ...

  15. Farley 5

    Farley 5 is our best value fat bike and the perfect gateway to all-season freedom. It rolls over snow, sand, roots, and rocks with the stability and traction of a monster truck on beefy 27.5x4.5˝ tires. A 1x Shimano drivetrain, lightweight aluminum frame, and carbon fork make it a great choice for anyone who wants to ride a mountain bike year ...

  16. Trek Farley 5 vs. 7 vs. 9.6

    Trek Farley 5 2021 - Photo Credit Trekbikes.com. The 2021 Trek Farley 5 is expected to be a big seller once again thanks to its affordable price, brand name recognition, and overall performance. Like previous models from Trek, this one is all about getting people into fat bike riding with a durable entry-level option. Some people will stick ...

  17. Farley 5

    Integrated, cartridge bearing, sealed, 1-1/8" top, 1.5" bottom. Brakeset. SRAM Level hydraulic disc. Weight. Weight. 17.5" - 14.54 kg / 32.06 lbs. Weight limit. This bike has a maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider, and cargo) of 300 pounds (136 kg). We reserve the right to make changes to the product information ...

  18. 2016 Trek Farley 5

    Specs, reviews & prices for the 2016 Trek Farley 5. Compare forks, shocks, wheels and other components on current and past MTBs. View and share reviews, comments and questions on mountain bikes. Huge selection of mountain bikes from brands such as Trek, Specialized, Giant, Santa Cruz, Norco and more.

  19. Salsa Mukluk NX1 vs Trek Farley 5

    The two bikes I'm looking at are the Salsa Mukluk NX1 and the Trek Farley 5. I'm hoping to get some advice on which build might be better. Also, it's really important that the bike accept a rear rack just in case there isn't room on the seat tube for the Ridelaong. The Salsa can take a rear rack, but I'm not sure about the Trek.

  20. Trek Bikes

    Trek Bikes - Farley; Farley lets you go further and farther than ever before — it's your overnight adventure rig, your off-season ripper, and your snowy singletrack surfer. ... Farley 5. Farley 5 gives you a blank slate. It has Farley-specific carbon fork and is compatible with all of the Farley accessories and more. It even comes with a ...