trek fuel ex 8 review 2022

Trek Fuel EX 8 review – still one of the best trail MTBs?

Trek’s alloy fuel ex trail mountain bike lacks the latest features but is the overall package still a winner.

BikePerfect Verdict

Heavy frame that misses the latest features but still a great package for fast and precise all round mountain biking

Tight, precise frame

Sorted all round handling

Very efficient suspension feel

Durable Shimano kit

Excellent sizing options

Heavy frame

No internal storage

Press fit bottom bracket

Top Fuel is more playful

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Trek’s Fuel EX has been one of the best mountain bikes in the world for years, but the alloy-framed 8 is lacking some of the features the latest alloy and carbon Treks. High-durability component spec matches the vibe of a really well-balanced bike. One that plans ahead, hands its homework in early (having double checked it) and rarely puts a wheel wrong or goads you into being silly yourself. So how has Trek done that and is there a better option in the range if you want something short on travel but big on fun?

Design and aesthetics

Trek has been using a rocker link-driven, vertical shock suspension design on its bikes for so long that “Looks like a Trek Session” is a cliche on most MTB forums. No surprise then that the Fuel EX continues the clean looks which leave plenty of room for a big bottle on the down tube and strap-on storage. You don’t get the internal storage of the newer Top Fuel alloy frame though and this older frame still uses a press-fit bottom bracket rather than reverting to a more reliable threaded  format. There are ISCG chain keeper tabs on the BB though, a wider-angle Knock Block steering limiter to stop bars hitting the frame in a crash and rear axle concentric ABP rear suspension pivot. Cunning zip tie tabbed ‘Control Freak’ internal cable routing and rubber frame armor including molded chainstay sleeves keep things quiet. 

You also get the 0.5-degree geometry change ‘Mino Link’ flip chip at the seat stay/rocker pivot. That changes head angle from 65.5- to 65-degrees and effective seat angle from 75.5- to 75-degrees on the Large I tested. Reach also shifts from 475 to 470mm and BB height drops from 346 to 340mm. The big win with choosing a Trek though is the sheer range of sizes from XXS to XXL including a sweet spot ML in the centre. Smaller bikes also run 27.5in wheels for proportional balance, too, although the chainstays are the same length on all frame sizes. The Fuel EX 8 is also available in three different two-tone color options.

Specification

Trek acknowledges that the ‘priority is on the parts’ with the EX 8 and the highlight is an almost complete Shimano XT drivetrain (the chain is SLX). The Fox Float shock is a custom unit, too, using a Penske race car derived RE:aktiv damper setup for a pert-pedaling feel on top of the 130mm travel. The 140mm Fox 34 fork is the stock Rhythm spec though and the Shimano brakes are basic four-piston MT400s. Bontrager’s functional Line component range completes the bike in well-judged, size-specific cockpit options although dropper post strokes are short on the larger sizes. Big volume versions of Bontrager’s XR5 and XR4 tires on Bontrager Line Comp 30mm internal rims put plenty of air between bike and trail for protection, too.

Performance

While the EX8 isn’t light at just under 15kg (a full kilo heavier than Trek claims) it’s in the ballpark for a mid-travel, alloy-framed bike at this price. What really stands out is how well it hides that weight when it comes to pedaling. The big tires don’t drag nearly as much as they look like they might, while the RE:aktiv shock and overall kinematic give it a really clean, crisp and stable platform to put down power from. That means even with three potential low-compression settings to play with, we rarely felt compelled to flick it out of full open unless we were hoofing uphill out of the saddle. Add the clean shifting, top-quality Shimano XT drivetrain and the Fuel EX is a great choice for high-mileage rides and riders. The fast-engaging ‘Rapid Drive’ freehub and relatively high ground clearance are a bonus for anyone who likes to kick hard out of corners or attack rough technical climbs, too. The efficient suspension feel still gives enough sensitivity to track the ground under power and you can drop pressures in the big tires if you’re into a proper ‘crawler/swamper’ feel. 

The 140mm fork/130mm rear travel feels well balanced on the trail and the Grip damper Fox Rhythm repeatedly proved why its our favorite cost-effective fork. Trek’s suspension calculator is accurate enough to get most people sorted on set-up for most situations. The angles and proportions of the model we tested were confident at speed on jumps but still turned in promptly on woodland twisters. Even the basic Shimano brakes feel better than normal through the neutral suspension responses created by the ABP pivot and the 200mm rotor up front boosts power, too.

While you could speed up reactions with a shorter stem, the stock setup probably suits its overall character better. That’s because while it will pop and play off trailside opportunities if you’re in the mood, it does tend to sit on top of an already relatively high ride height rather than sucking down onto the trail and railing. Interestingly that’s a big - and counter intuitive - difference to the Top Fuel 8. With slightly steeper angles, less travel, significantly different suspension kinematic and top-spec RockShox rear shock, Trek’s pocket rocket has an addictively playful charisma that’s very much at odds with it’s ‘XC’ categorization. 

In fact, despite it being heavier we’d probably opt for the Fuel EX for long marathon-style or efficiency-based events, especially as it’s significantly cheaper than its little brother, leaving you more cash for race entries and energy products. Just make sure you keep an eye on the press-fit bottom bracket and get it replaced as soon as it shows any signs of wobble/creak as that can eventually creates frame issues.

Trek’s Fuel range might be a bit backwards when it comes to assigning categories based on travel but the main thing is that the Fuel EX is still a really efficient, enjoyable and fitness/skill flattering all rounder. While it misses out on the internal storage, threaded BB and super-plush playfulness of the Top Fuel, Shimano XT will always bring a lot of hard riding boys (and girls) to the yard. Those are exactly the riders who’ll appreciate just how well this extremely well balanced bike covers ground and keeps a fresh and sharp feel long into the day, and down tough technical sections, too. 

Tech Specs: Trek Fuel EX 8 XT

• Price: $3,929.99 / £3,200
• Discipline: Trail
• Head angle: 66/66.5-degrees
• Frame material: Trek Alpha Platinum Aluminum
• Sizes: XS, S, M, M/L, L (tested) XL, XXL
• Weight: 14.9kg
• Wheel size: 29 x 2.3in
• Suspension (front/rear): Fox Rhythm 34, Float EVOL 140mm travel, 44mm offset/Fox Performance Float EVOL, 3-position RE:aktiv 130mm travel
• Components: Shimano XT 10-51T, 12-speed gearing, shifter, chainset and cassette. Shimano SLX chain. Shimano MT400 brakes with 200/180mm rotors. Bontrager XR4 Team Issue 29 x 2.6in front and Bontrager XR5 Team Issue 29 x 2.5in rear tires on Bontrager Line Comp 30 wheels. Bontrager Line 780 x 35mm bar and 50 x 35 mm stem, Bontrager Line Dropper 150mm dropper post, Bontrager Arvada saddle

Guy has been working on Bike Perfect since we launched in 2019. Hatched in Yorkshire he's been hardened by riding round it in all weathers since he was a kid. He spent a few years working in bike shops and warehouses before starting writing and testing for bike mags in 1996. Since then he’s written several million words about several thousand test bikes and a ridiculous amount of riding gear. To make sure he rarely sleeps and to fund his custom tandem habit, he’s also penned a handful of bike-related books and talks to a GoPro for YouTube, too.

Current rides: Cervelo ZFS-5, Forbidden Druid V2, Specialized Chisel, custom Nicolai enduro tandem, Landescape/Swallow custom gravel tandem

Height: 180cm

Weight: 69kg

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• Best Mountain Bike Reviews

Best Trail Mountain Bikes

Trek fuel ex 8 review.

• Fun Factor - 25% 8.0
• Downhill Performance - 35% 8.0
• Climbing Performance - 35% 7.0
• Ease of Maintenance - 5% 6.0

Our Verdict

Our analysis and test results.

Should I Buy This Bike?

Trek redesigned their popular range of mid-travel Fuel EX trail bikes for 2020 with major changes to the geometry and the ABP rear suspension design. The new Fuel EX models, including the EX 8 we tested, are in line with modern trail bike geometry trends, plus they've been given a bump in front suspension travel with 140mm travel forks paired with 130mm of rear-wheel travel. The ABP (Active Braking Pivot) suspension design provides a supportive pedaling platform, great small bump sensitivity, composed big hit performance, and is unaffected by braking forces. Trek makes bikes for the masses, and despite lengthening and slackening the Fuel EX the geometry remains relatively middle of the road by today's standards, though this isn't necessarily a bad thing. This bike has an easy-going demeanor with predictable handling that is comfortable and fun to ride at a range of speeds and nearly any type of terrain, yet is still capable of charging relatively hard. The EX 8 is the most expensive aluminum-framed model in their line, but we feel it is reasonably priced with a shred-ready component specification that includes quality suspension, a GX Eagle drivetrain, a 150mm dropper, and meaty 2.6" wide tires. We didn't feel there was a lot of wow-factor, but we also found it hard to complain about the versatile and well-rounded performance of this reasonably priced mid-travel ride.

Interested in a bike that charges a little harder on the descents? The Norco Optic has similar travel numbers with 125mm of rear suspension paired with a 140mm fork. The Optic's aggressive geometry gives it a serious appetite for the descents, and it slays downhill like a bike with more travel. Its long wheelbase and slack head tube angle make it notably stable at speed and confident in steep, rough terrain. It feels similar to the Fuel EX on the climbs and in rolling terrain but blows it away on the descents. Carbon Optic builds range from $3,749 to $8,999.

Do you like smaller wheels and playful ride? The Santa Cruz 5010 rolls on fun-sized, 27.5-inch wheels and has 130mm of rear wheel travel and 140mm fork. It's got modern, but not extreme, geometry that makes it a versatile trail weapon that performs well on both the climbs and descents. A lively and playful demeanor is the hallmark of the 5010, and this bike likes to be flicked, slashed, and aired off every obstacle in the trail. The VPP suspension platform provides great pedaling support, efficiency, and a bit of pop. While the Fuel EX is impressively versatile and user-friendly, the 5010 will appeal to the rider who wants to turn the mountain into their playground. The 5010 comes in carbon frames only with complete builds ranging from $4,099 to $6,899.

Frame Design

The 2020 Fuel EX 8 is built around Trek's Alpha Platinum Aluminum frame with 130mm of rear-wheel travel. Trek has used their Active Braking Pivot (ABP) rear suspension design for some time and that continues with the redesigned Fuel EX models. Unlike previous ABP designs, the new Fuel has a fixed lower shock mount as opposed to the floating shock mount of the past. ABP is basically a four-bar design where the main pivot is attached to the seat tube just above the bottom bracket, the shock attaches to a magnesium rocker link about halfway up the seat tube, and there is a pivot point around the rear axle. This rear axle pivot is intended to allow the suspension to move freely regardless of braking forces, hence the name Active Braking Pivot . Trek has included their Mino Link flip chip at the junction of the seat stays and the rocker link which adjusts the head and seat tube angles by 0.5-degrees and changes the bottom bracket height by 7mm. The frame has internal Control Freak cable routing, a knock block headset, a downtube guard, and chainstay protection. It comes in sizes XS-XXL with XS and Small frames getting 27.5-inch wheels and Medium to XXL frames coming with 29-inch hoops.

We found the frame sizing of the Fuel EX 8 to feel a little small, so our 6-foot tall testers rode a size XL for this test. We measured our test bike and found that it had a 654mm effective top tube and a 490mm reach. In the Low setting the head tube angle was 65.75-degrees and the effective seat tube angle was 75.25-degrees. The bottom bracket was 342mm off the ground with 438mm long chainstays and a 1240mm wheelbase. Both the reach and wheelbase measurements sound quite long, but this bike feels smaller than those numbers suggest. It tipped the scales at 31 lbs and 7 oz set up tubeless without pedals.

Design Highlights

• Available in aluminum or carbon fiber frames
• 130mm of ABP rear suspension
• Designed around a 140mm fork
• Mino Link adjustable geometry
• Available in 7 frames sizes
• XS and S frames get 27.5-inch wheels, all other sizes come with 29-inch
• Three aluminum models starting at $2,100 up to $3,450 (tested)
• Carbon models range in price from $4,100 to $9,000
• Available as frame only in aluminum for $2,000, and carbon fiber for $3,300

Downhill Performance

The Fuel EX 8 is a rock-solid downhill performer. It didn't blow our testers away on the descents, but it never let them down either. This bike was comfortable and fun to ride on a huge range of terrain and is capable of tackling all but the gnarliest of steep and rough trails. The geometry strikes a nice middle ground that gives it its impressive versatility, and the new ABP suspension design delivers stunning sensitivity and small bump compliance and a deep feeling stroke that handles big hits with composure. For the price, the components on our test bike are solid and perform well on the descents.

The geometry of the Fuel EX 8 is a dramatic improvement over the previous version, and Trek has addressed most of the current trail bike trends. A longer reach and wheelbase, slacker head tube, steeper seat tube, and flip-chip adjustable geometry are a proven recipe for enhanced downhill performance and capability. Interestingly, our testers found the frame sizing to feel small. Our six-foot tall tester felt cramped on the Large frame while our 5'-10" tester felt just about right. If you're on the cusp of a frame size, we'd suggest taking a test ride and possibly sizing up. Once on the right size frame, testers felt the reach was adequate and the wheelbase was just about right for a modern mid-travel trail bike. It's long enough to feel stable and planted at high speeds, but not so long that it becomes unwieldy at low speeds or in tight terrain. The 65.75-degree head angle, in the low setting, is slack enough to tackle the majority of trails with confidence without being so slack that steering becomes sluggish or the bike feels awkward at low speeds. The geometry is also adjustable using the Mino-Link flip-chip. There is a 0.5-degree difference in the head and seat tube angles and the bottom bracket changes by 7mm between the High and Low settings. We spent the majority of our time testing the Fuel EX 8 in the Low setting which we found to be excellent for everyday trail riding. The High setting's steeper head angle provided marginally crisper handling and we feel it would be good for riders whose trails are smoother and moderate in difficulty.

The ABP suspension design works well. Trek has moved away from the full-floater design on the previous Fuel models to a fixed lower shock mount. The Fuel EX 8 we tested comes with a Fox Float Performance rear shock with custom-tuned RE:aktiv damper technology. There's a lot of technical jargon associated with the RE:aktiv shocks, but the gist of it all is that it has regressive damping intended to give it a supportive pedal platform while remaining highly sensitive with excellent small bump compliance. Testers found it to soak up big hits with ease with a relatively bottomless feel, especially for a 130mm bike, with a supportive mid-stroke that you could push off of out of corners and get some pop when you're looking for it. It wasn't the most playful or lively bike we've ridden recently, but it wasn't glued to the ground either. The knock block headset is a necessity on this bike to prevent the fork from damaging the downtube, but our testers noted that it does limit your turning radius is super tight switchbacks.

For the price, we were quite pleased with the component specification of the Fuel EX 8 , and it works well on the descents. The Fox Rhythm 34 fork is nothing fancy but felt sturdy, impressively supple, and balanced with the rear suspension. The Shimano Deore brakes work well enough, with a very on/off feel that Shimano brakes are known for. The Bontrager Line Comp 30 wheels felt stiff and sturdy, and the 2.6" Bontrager XR4 tires worked surprisingly well in a huge range of conditions and were more durable than expected. We can't complain about the Bontrager Line dropper post, the 150mm was adequate and the 1x style remote lever felt good. The cockpit was well appointed with a properly wide 780mm handlebar and a short 50mm stem with a sturdy 35mm clamp.

Climbing Performance

We were pleasantly surprised by the climbing performance of the Fuel EX 8 . We've read reviews that complain of this bike relying heavily on the compression damping switch of the rear shock, but we found it to be quite supportive with minimal pedal induced bobbing. Sure, it's a little heavy at over 31 lbs, but this bike felt efficient and responsive and capable of taking on any length of climb or ride. The geometry is comfortable and the component grouping won't hold you back.

Assuming you're on the right size frame, the geometry of the Fuel EX 8 is comfortable on the climbs. Once again, on the Large frame, our six-foot tall testers felt cramped in the cockpit, after sizing up to an XL they felt far more comfortable. We measured the reach on the XL frame at 490mm, but it certainly didn't feel that long or stretched out. The 1240mm wheelbase also sounds lengthy, but again, it didn't feel that long and this bike was plenty maneuverable on the climbs. One limiting factor to this bike's maneuverability is the knock block, which we found came into play occasionally in super tight switchbacks and technical terrain. The 75.25-degree effective seat tube angle is a little bit slacker than you'll find on most bikes in 2020 but it still places you almost directly above the bottom bracket for pushing straight down on the pedals.

The RE:aktiv shock valving works very well with the ABP suspension design to create a supportive pedal platform on the Fuel EX 8 . It seems to us that there is something to the regressive damping technology, and we climbed with the shock in the open position the majority of the time. In the open position, there was very minimal pedal bob when seated and a relatively standard amount when out of the saddle. Despite the firm climbing feel of the rear suspension, it still felt sensitive and soaked up small bumps and helped to enhance traction. Flipping the compression damping switch to the middle position provided an even firmer pedal platform, though testers felt that was best saved for long fire road or paved climbs.

Overall, the component grouping was generally fantastic on the climbs. The SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain is reliable with plenty of gear range and crisp shifting. The Bontrager XR4 rear tire in the 2.6" width has a huge contact patch and provided ample climbing traction on virtually all surfaces. Testers did find, however, that the Bontrager Arvada saddle wasn't the most comfortable and would likely be the first thing we'd upgrade. The overall weight of the Fuel EX 8 is also notable at 31 lbs and 7 oz. This bike is a bit on the heavy side, though we have to admit the weight went largely unnoticed while riding.

At a retail price of $3,450, the Fuel EX 8 qualifies as being reasonably priced these days. We feel that this represents an above-average value for a well spec'd trail bike from a major brand like Trek. This bike comes ready to rip and there's seriously nothing that needs to be upgraded to get out and get after it. If this is out of your price range, there are two less expensive models to choose from, and for those looking to go a bit higher end, there are 6 different carbon builds.

Trek did a good job when they redesigned the Fuel EX , creating a more versatile and well-rounded mid-travel trail ripper. This bike has a very approachable and easy-going demeanor, with just enough travel and the angles to be a blast to ride in all but the most aggressive of terrain. There's nothing particularly exciting about it, but there's little we didn't like about it either. We feel this is a solid all-around trail bike and a reasonably priced and sensible option for a lot of riders and locations.

Other Versions

Trek makes nine different versions fo the new Fuel EX including the EX 8 model we tested which is the top of the line aluminum framed option. They no longer offer women's specific models, though they do make the bikes in 6 different sizes to fit a huge range of rider's body shapes and sizes.

They make 3 aluminum-framed models, all of which share the same Alpha Platinum Aluminum frame and geometry, starting with the budget-friendly Fuel EX 5 which retails for $2,100. The EX 5 comes with a RockShox Recon RL fork and a Deluxe Select+ rear shock, a Shimano Deore 10-speed drivetrain, wide tubeless-ready wheels and 2.6" tires, and a TranzX dropper seatpost.

The mid-range aluminum model is the Fuel EX 7 at $2,900. It comes with a RockShox Gold 35 fork, a Fox Float Performance DPS EVOL rear shock, a SRAM NX Eagle drivetrain, and a Bontrager Line Comp 30 wheelset.

How to Select the Right Mountain Bike

FIRST RIDE REVIEW

The new trek fuel ex review.

Photos & Words by Dario DiGiulio

As mountain biking has evolved into what it is today, the trails we ride on have slowly but surely raised the bar of what modern bikes have to keep up with. Sure, some tracks have been sanitized over time, but there’s no question that the pointy end of the sport has kept pushing forward. As a result, trail bikes have had to pick up the pace to match the expectations of the average rider, leading to more capable and confident rigs with every new model. Stepping up to the plate, we have the evolved version of the Trek Fuel EX, Trek’s mainstay trail bike. This time it’s really meant to do it all, riding anywhere and doing anything. Being this adaptable can be a tricky task though, so has Trek painted themselves into a corner?

The new Trek Fuel EX breaks just about every mold that the prior generations had fit into, with a full-on redesign for the new model. The name of the game here is adaptability, whether in the geometry, the suspension kinematics, or even what size wheels you’ll run. Thanks to their Mino Link flip chip and two sets of press-in headset cups, you can shift the character of this bike drastically to suit your terrain and preference. As a result, it’s a bit hard to parse out the specific geometry of the bike (however Trek’s site features a geometry tool to let you do so), so I’ll just speak to it in its most neutral form, which is where many will likely settle. There are a whopping 8 size variations to this bike from XS to XXL, so it’s worth digging through the geometry tables to see which might suit you best. They’re all sporting 140mm of rear travel with a 150mm fork, upping the numbers on the prior generation by 10mm.

I’ve been testing the large frame, which puts the reach and stack at around 485mm and 621mm, which are in line with the majority of the industry right now. In keeping with the new Trek Fuel EX’s theme of being adaptable and capable. In its neutral-low setting, the bike comes with a 64.5-degree head tube angle and the effective seat tube angle sits at 77.2-degrees. Chainstays shift with the frame size, and on a large come in at 440mm. Thanks to the Mino Link flip chip, you can adjust bottom bracket height by 8mm up from the slammed 38mm drop in stock configuration, with a 0.6° steeper head tube and seat tube angle. The more significant head tube adjustment comes from the independent press-in headset cups that Trek supplies, which can steepen or slacken things by a full degree, giving a very wide range of handling characteristics. The last frame toggle is the progression flip chip, offering a simple more or less option to tailor the suspension feel and offer uncompromised coil shock compatibility.

As is trend right now, you can set the Fuel Ex up as a mullet, simply by popping a 27.5” wheel in the rear, swapping the Mino Link to high mode, and bumping up fork travel to 160mm. The bike comes stock as a 29er front and rear (or 27.5″ in XS and Small), so you’ll have to make this change on your own accord.

A notable thing lacking from the newest Fuel EX its the Knock Block – you’ll find no such thing on this frame. X-up fans take note, as this is a big move for the engineers in Waterloo, Wisconsin, and was necessary to achieve the headset adjustment range they wanted. Trek has also moved away from the RE:aktiv damper shock, now simply relying on an off-the-shelf model. Still included in the frames are the handy-dandy stash box in the down tube, with what I think might be the best weather sealing of any of the options on the market at this point, and a neat BITS tool roll.

Build kits come in as many flavors as the sizes, and the range of options is quite extensive, beginning at a respectable $3,699. I’ve been on the highest end build, the 9.9 AXS especial, coming in at a healthy $10,749. From Bontrager Line 30 carbon wheels, to the RSL one-piece carbon cockpit, to the XX1 drivetrain, just about everything is as nice as it gets, as you’d hope for this kind of money.

At my height of 6’3”, the geo combination of the Neutral-Low-More flip chip configuration on the large size makes for a really comfortable fit,  one that feels stable enough at speed while still remaining lively for your average trail. I started my time testing the bright yellow Trek up in Whistler, riding some gnarly rocky pedal-access trails around the Valley. This was a great context for deciding where I stood on the less or more progression debate, and I settled on the latter end of the spectrum. Increased bottom-out resistance and a more supple top of travel were worth a slightly punchier suspension feel, and I stand by that choice for most of the riding I have around me. On my home trails in Bellingham, the Fuel has been a choice companion for fast and fun rides in our local trail systems, where technical and engaging climbs lead to fast, rooty, and jump-filled descents. My general synopsis is that this is a bike that loves to ride fast, both up and down.

The climbing characteristics are comfortable and neutral, without wallowing too much or lacking grip in trickier terrain. Like many of the take-aways of the bike as it comes stock, things are extra-medium, in the best way. Compared to the new Hightower, the bike has slightly less support, but is significantly better in rough terrain and successive hits. Compared to the Stumpjumper EVO, the Fuel EX is definitely more of a trail bike, less of the all-mountain enduro-lite ride that the Specialized offers. All three bikes serve as a nice gradient from the lighter and sportier end of the trail spectrum to the burlier and more capable side of the category. Sitting pretty right in the middle is the Fuel EX, but I’m sure one could tweak it to either of the other extremes, given how much variability is baked into this frame.

Build kit notes are mostly positive, which you’d hope to see from the highest end build. My main gripe is with the Bontrager SE5 tires, which are some the least confidence-inspiring I’ve ridden in recent memory. The casing and tread pattern are fine, but the compound doesn’t seem to want to hook up anywhere, whether it’s dry loose terrain, rock slabs, and especially wet roots. This would be an immediate swap in my book, and I’d just keep the stock tires to run in the rear when conditions are dry and beat at the peak of summer.

The removable shuttle pad doesn’t seem to want to stay close to the frame, and bows out slightly when attached, giving the downtime a funny bulged look to it. One other frame annoyance has been a recurring suspension knock, despite chasing through every bolt in the linkage with a torque wrench. I still have yet to find the culprit, but luckily it’s not very noticeable when riding.

As a system, I’ve been more than impressed by Trek’s work on the new Fuel EX. Not only does it feel quick and confidant in the stock configuration, it also offers a whole host of layout options to better cater the bike to your preferences.

THE WOLF’S FIRST IMPRESSION

To close out our review of the new Trek Fuel Ex, it’s clear that Trek’s engineers and designers set out to design a bike that caters to that wide center of the market – the trail bike – where most riders spend their time, and where a bike can take many forms. In that goal, they found success. Sure some riders may feel the new Fuel EX has departed from what they were used to and liked about the bike, but many other riders will likely welcome the advancements in capability and confidence on the trail. The Fuel EX is a highly adaptable bike that feels comfortable in a really wide variety of terrain but doesn’t confuse itself for anything more or less. Bike riders, rejoice.

TREK FUEL EX 7

Price: $3,699.99

Frame: Alpha Platinum Aluminum, internal storage | 140mm Fork: RockShox 35 Gold RL | 150mm Shock: Fox Performance Float EVOL

Drivetrain: Shimano SLX/XT Brakes: Shimano MT420 4-piston

Wheelset: Bontrager Line Comp 30, Rapid Drive 108

TREK FUEL EX 8

Price: $4,299

Frame: Alpha Platinum Aluminum, internal storage | 140mm Fork: Fox Rhythm 36 | 150mm Shock: Fox Performance Float X

Drivetrain: Shimano XT M8100 Brakes: Shimano Deore M6120

TREK FUEL EX 9.7

Price: $6,249.99

Frame: OLCV Mountain Carbon, internal storage | 140mm Fork: Fox Rhythm 36 | 150mm Shock: Fox Performance Float X

Drivetrain: Shimano SLX/XT Brakes: Shimano Deore M6120

TREK FUEL EX 9.8

GX AXS Price: $7,699.99 XT Price: $6,749.99

Frame: OLCV Mountain Carbon, internal storage | 140mm Fork: Fox Performance 36 | 150mm Shock: Fox Performance Float X

Wheelset: Bontrager Line Elite 30, OCLV Carbon, Rapid Drive 108

GX AXS BUILD Drivetrain: SRAM GX Eagle AXS Brakes: SRAM CODE R

XT BUILD Drivetrain: Shimano XT M8100 Brakes: Shimano XT M8120

TREK FUEL EX 9.9

XX1 AXS Price: $10,749.99 XTR Price: $9,749.99

Frame: OLCV Mountain Carbon, internal storage | 140mm Fork: Fox Factory 36 | 150mm Shock: Fox Factory Float X

Wheelset: Bontrager Line Pro 30, OCLV Carbon, Rapid Drive 108

XX1 AXS BUILD Drivetrain: SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS Brakes: SRAM CODE RSC

XT BUILD Drivetrain: Shimano XTR M9100 Brakes: Shimano XTR M9120

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• Rider Notes

2022 Trek Fuel EX 8

A 27.5″ / 29″ aluminum frame full suspension trail bike with high-end components. Compare the full range

For This Bike

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Based on frame geometry and build specs.

A bike with lower gearing will be easier to ride up steep hills, while a higher top end means it will pedal faster down hills.

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Based on build material and quality level of the frame, fork, wheelset, groupset, suspension system, and more.

Compare the full Fuel EX model range

Jun 2023 · Tom Marvin

A solid performer with a class-leading chassis, let down by a harsh front end

Great frame, with perfect handling and suspension feel

Adjustable geometry and sizing options mean a bike fit for all

Happy on any level of trail

Cockpit harshness

Mediocre tyres

Poor brakes

Read Review

Jun 2023 · Scotty Prendergast

Arguably one of the all-time most popular bike models of any MTB on the planet, the ‘Fuel Ex’ has been at the peak of Trek’s MTB line-up for as long as anyone can remember and it has had no fewer than six major design overhauls during that time. Late last year Trek unveiled their newest reinvention of the ‘do it all trail bike’ which rolls out of the store boasting a ton of rider customisation features, including a choice of [...]

May 2023 · Jeremy Benson

The new Gen 6, Fuel EX 9.8 is the burliest, most versatile, and most capable Fuel yet; truly up for whatever you want to ride. Trek completely redesigned...

Apr 2023 · Drew Rohde

While the new Trek Fuel EX may have alienated a few riders, it will no doubt be a welcome redesign for a lot more riders!

Fast, confident and ready to rock!

More capable than ever

Great downtube storage solution

Adjustable and versatile geometry options

Med/Large size

Bar/Stem combo

SE5 Tires in the wet

Some may not like the newer, burlier bike’s transition

Dec 2022 · Mike Levy

The downtube storage compartment is on the new bike, and while it seems like Trek has put all the things onto the latest Fuel EX, there's one that they didn't: Knock Block.

Wide range of effective geometry adjustments

Just as much fun on smooth trails as it is on scary trails

Great climber, efficient pedaling

One-piece handlebar might be too stiff for some riders

Paint chips easily

New geometry, more travel, and even better suspension improves Trek's mid-weight trail bike.

Trek's top-tier Fuel EX 9.9 XX1 AXS delights on the climbs and tackles downhill terrain with it's slack (and very adjustable) geometry.

May 2022 · Guy Kesteven

Trek’s alloy Fuel EX trail mountain bike lacks the latest features but is the overall package still a winner?

Tight, precise frame

Sorted all round handling

Very efficient suspension feel

Durable Shimano kit

Excellent sizing options

Heavy frame

No internal storage

Press fit bottom bracket

Top Fuel is more playful

Last updated March 30 Not listed for 13 days

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Trek Fuel EX 8 Review

• coherent overall package
• higher quality gears than the other bikes in this price range
• 25 years warranty
• with 13,9 kg lighter than comparable bikes

OVERALL BIKE CHECK

The most importanten ratings of the Fuel EX 8 ⬤ in comparison to the competitor bikes of following categorie: (All Mountain up to 4500 €) ⬤ .

VALUE for MONEY CHECK

If you are keen on value for money, this is your chart. It shows you at a glance how many bike you get for 3499 €.

Expirience with the Trek Fuel EX 8

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Je steiler der Winkel des Sitzrohrs ist, desto effizienter können Sie in die Pedale treten.

• Frame Fuel EX Alu
• Frame Material Aluminium
• Fork Fox Rhythm 34, Float EVOL air spring, GRIP damper, tapered steerer, 44mm offset, Boost110, 15mm Kabolt axle, 140mm travel
• Spring Unit air
• Remote-Lockout yes
• Damper Size: XS, S, Fox Performance Float EVOL, 3-position RE:aktiv damper, tuned by Trek Suspension Lab, 210mm x 52.5mm; Size: S, M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Fox Performance Float EVOL, 3-position RE:aktiv damper, tuned by Trek Suspension Lab, 210mm x 55mm
• Gearrange 510%
• Drivetrain 1x12
• Gear Lever Shimano XT M8100, 12 speed
• Rear Derailleur Shimano XT M8100, long cage
• Crank Size: XS, S, M, ML, L, Shimano SLX M7100, 30T alloy ring, 52mm chainline, 170mm length; Size: XL, XXL, Shimano SLX M7100, 30T alloy ring, 52mm chainline, 175mm length
• Cassette Shimano XT M8100, 10-51, 12 speed
• Chain Shimano SLX M7100, 12 speed
• Brake Set Size: XS, S, M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Shimano hydraulic disc, MT4100 lever, MT420 4-piston caliper; Size: XS, S, M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc, MT4100 lever, MT420 caliper
• Brake Rotors 180/180
• Wheel Set Bontrager Line Comp 30, Tubeless Ready, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15mm thru axle
• Front Hub Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, alloy axle, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15 mm thru axle
• Rear Hub Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, alloy axle, 6-bolt, Shimano MicroSpline freehub, Boost148, 12 mm thru axle
• Tires Front Size: XS, S, Bontrager XR5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength casing, aramid bead, 60 tpi, 27.5x2.50''; Size: S, M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager XR5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29x2.50''
• Tires Rear Size: XS, S, Bontrager XR5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength casing, aramid bead, 60 tpi, 27.5x2.50''; Size: S, M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager XR5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29x2.50''
• Saddle Bontrager Arvada, hollow chromoly rails, 138mm width
• Seat Post Size: XS, S, Bontrager Line Dropper, 100mm travel, internal routing, 31.6mm, 345mm length; Size: M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager Line Dropper, 150mm travel, internal routing, 31.6mm, 440mm length
• Stem Size: XS, S, Bontrager Elite, 35mm, 0 degree, 35mm length; Size: M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager Elite, 35mm, 0 degree, 45mm length
• Handle Bar Size: XS, S, Bontrager Line, alloy, 35mm, 27.5mm rise, 750mm width; Size: M, ML, L, XL, XXL, Bontrager Line, alloy, 35mm, 27.5mm rise, 780mm width
• Handle Bar Width 780
• Head Set Knock Block Integrated, 58-degree radius, cartridge bearing, 1-1/8'' top, 1.5'' bottom

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Trek Fuel EX 8 review

130mm travel full-suspension bike

Russell Burton/Future Publishing

Jon Woodhouse

Trek’s Fuel EX has been a Trail Bike of the Year winner as well as a close contender . It’s still a very safe, efficient partner for tackling technical singletrack or long days in the hills, but it’s focused more towards cruise control than chasing the ragged edge.

Ride & handling: Suited to all-day adventures

The exposed rocks of our heavily armoured test trails highlighted a harsher, more chattery ride than the 650b and 29in wheels created on competing Trail Bike of the Year contenders . The Bontrager rubber gives good grip and their low weight helps to keep the ride lively rather than lung busting on more stop/start trails.

Add the Shimano based-spec and you’re looking at a bike that’s really well suited to heading out into the hills with a map in your pack and an adventure in your head. It felt very comfortable among the vistas and long winding trails of the second day of wild, mountain testing. It worked really well on more natural trails where big hits were generally singular and corners too loose or greasy to load the fork up.

The Trek started to feel out of its depth against the latest bikes when we got aggressive on trail centre terrain. The DRCV twin chamber fork moves less than a standard one when pedalling but swallows bigger hits with full-stroke eagerness. This reduces loose and chattery corner traction, and the sudden dive comes at just the point you want to drive the front end through berms or keep it high under hard braking.

Even with the broad bar overseeing your steering efforts, the front end feels steeper than it is, with a nervous, fidgety feel in corners if you’re pushing it hard.

Frame & equipment: Sharp-tracking frameset with DRCV shock

With 130mm of rear stroke and 130mm up front the Fuel sits bang in the centre of the do-it-all category for travel, but the wide bar suggests a bit more attitude and control than you might expect. The proprietary DRCV (Dual Rate Control Valve) dual chamber shock also extends impact control deeper than you’d expect at first.

In normal pedalling or rolling situations the top chamber gives a tight and firmly-sprung response that keeps power inputs crisp. This helps offset the high overall weight of the bike on climbs or sprints, to the point where it’s a surprise what you’ve been propelling when you pick it up.

If you wallop something bigger the second chamber of the shock is prodded open to increase its impact appetite, stopping the big hit Buckaroo and pinch flat problems you’d otherwise expect from a 130mm 26in-wheeled bike.

The Active Braking Pivot axle rear pivot and Full Floater shock – it’s squeezed between linkage and the chainstay tip rather than frame – keep things controlled, buoyant and unaffected by braking. The Evolution-spec damper in the Fox shock felt better than similar setups in other bikes when we were pushing the pace.

This bike was tested as part of What Mountain Bike magazine’s 2013 Trail Bike of the Year feature – read the full results in issue 147, available on Apple Newsstand and Zinio .

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Field Test: Trek Fuel EX - Evolution Underlined

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$3929.99 MSRP

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