Trek FX Gravel Test - and I Give it a Name
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- Опубліковано 8 вер 2024
- So how good is the 2021 Trek FX 2 Disc on gravel, stock out of the box? We will find out.
What I ride: 2021 Trek Top Fuel 7 (Size M/L)
www.trekbikes....
2021 Trek FX 2 Disc (Size XL)
www.trekbikes....
2021 Polygon Bend R5 (Size L)
www.bikesonlin...
What my wife rides: 2021 Trek Marlin 6 (Size S)
www.trekbikes....
2021 Trek FX 2 Disc (Size S)
www.trekbikes....
GoPro Hero 9 Black settings:
4k - 24 fps (Superview)
HyperSmooth - BOOST
Bit Rate: HIGH
Shutter: AUTO
EV Comp: (-0.5)
Sharpness: LOW
Color: GoPro
Raw Audio: HIGH
Wind: Off
#trek #trekbikes #TopFuel #TrekMarlin #Ibis #GMBN #Marlin6 #MTB #Delaware #Mountainbiking #Specialized #Giant #XC
Check out a gravel race that I competed in with this bike (video on channel)! I installed Shimano PD-EH500 pedals, along with WTB Riddler tan wall gravel tires (700x37c). Bike worked phenomenally with that setup!
Great test. I fear for punctures. You guys are strong. Thanks.
Thanks! Yeah, all about line choice.
I put WTB Byway 700x40s on my FX 6, boom!, it's a gravel bike. The Byway has a smooth tread in the middle of the tire so it rides like a road tire on pavement, and diamond shaped tread on the shoulder so that it grips when you get into gravel. I have looked into getting a "real" gravel bike, but I find that I am really more comfortable and feel safer with flat bars, and I added aerobars for those times when I facing the wind and want to get more aero.
Yes! Same here! I put WTB Riddlers (700x37). Really happy with them. Check out the gravel race video I did as well! (unPAved PA)
Two weeks ago I've bought mine FX 2 Disk 2022. too as the replacement for my well over ten years old bike with older Shimano 3x7 Tourney drivetrain.
I've found it at my local bike store on discount for about 749 Euros (I'm from the EU) after thorough research on which bike to choose from.
And I have to say that I'm very impressed with this bike's buildt quality, how it handles on paved (mostly flat) roads and some light gravel paths, mostly also by it's comfort (Bontrager handles could be somewhat better shock absorbers for a non-suspension bike), shifters, very responsive brakes and how light it actually is (only about 11.7 kg). 2x9 Altus/ Acera drivetrain is very smooth and fun to use.
I use bike for several days each week as a means of exercise and usually do something about 10-15 km per each ride or more if I'm in good shape and there's nice weather.
It's a bit odd but here in Europe Trek FX 2 Disk comes with Tektro brakes, not the ones on bikes in the States.
Warm greetings from Croatia, European Union, all over the Atlantic sea! 👍👍👍
Love the comment!!!! Cheers!!
@@BIIIKES
Cheers to you too mate! 👍👋
I have an FX1 disc ( standard 35c tyres ) I use it every day in London; on the streets, down the canal paths, in the parks, wet, dry, whatever. The only thing I changed where the pedals ( stock pedals are awful in the wet ) and the bar grips to Ergon GP3 as I like to use grip ends.
Great bike.
Awesome! Yes, did 2 group rides this past weekend with my FX and loved it. I ended up swapping the pedals for the Shimano PD EH500's (double sided - clipless on one side, pins on the other). Perfect option I think for this bike.
Oh - I also swapped tires for the WTB Riddlers (tan walls)- 700x37c. Worked GREAT on gravel with that setup.
@@BIIIKES Nice, was thinking about a smaller tyre for commuting 30 or 32 but will wait for the winter wetness to be over here.
welp thats a good capable bike, aren’t we were riding worse bike back when super young to almost everywhere? 😀
I ordered the fx3 disc with the stagger frame. The matte dnister black. Med frame size. I ride mostly on paved trail system and some street riding with traffic. After a hip fracture recovery hopefully the stagger frame will be easier to get on and off. Thanks for the video. Your wife rocks!!
Ooooh, that's a pretty bike! Yes, the stagger should definitely help while you get your range of movement back. And yes, yes she is!! Thanks for watching and enjoy the bike! Way to get back out there 🧡🤘
Nice video man! This helped me decide on what to buy and just bought the 2022 fx2 disc. I gotta come up with a name too, like the thanos reference
Sweet!! Glad I could help. Keep me posted how it is 🤙
I just bought the 2022 FX2 also. I was shocked how well it does on some gravel bike trails here in Portland Maine. Lots of shifting here with hills,seems to do well. Climbing gear is super low.
It's a fun bike for sure! Not meant for Dirty Kanza or something like that, but a good all-rounder. Thanks for sharing your experience!
@@BIIIKES curious why you think it wouldn't be good for Unbound Gravel (formerly Dirty Kanza)? Are you referring to only the FX2, or would that also include the new FX 5 or 6? I bought a Cervelo gravel bike and find I don't like the drop bar position on aggressive downhills with loose gravel (I'm an old mountain biker) and thinking a flat bar gravel would be better. I've read many people do the Unbound on a hardtail MTB.
Yeah, you see a few hard tails and fat bikes at gravel races. You'll get used to descending in the drops. Get low and behind the seat of your gravel bike if it doesn't have a dropper (you're a mountain biker, you already know this 🤣). It's mainly the drive train that would hold this bike back from Unbound, etc. FXs with better drive trains are fine for it, but being on flat bars for that long would be really tough on your hands and wrists. Drop bars allow you to change positions on long efforts. Biggest issue with Unbound is the jagged rocks causing flats. The race is pretty flat compared to other races.
lol love the name brotha! Congrats again. I would leave the tires for a little longer Todd, knobby tires will be great for the dirt and trails but it will suck on the road. You have a good all-rounder for now.
Good advice! Yeah, no rush for swapping tires. Master plan is to still get a legit gravel or cyclocross bike in Jan 2023 (keep this for fun rides with my girls or vacations where it doesn't make sense to put wear and tear on super expensive bikes when not necessary). Really happy with the FX. Super low maintenance and just... fun 👍
@@BIIIKES let’s ride sometime , you ,your wife and me and mine. I’m just starting out too! Love the videos but where ya been lol
@@JMC_Collects hey! Was on vaca, and then work has been crazy (I'm an IT Mgr). Heading up to PA this weekend to take part in (and film) unPAved Susquehanna. I'm crewing for a couple buddies, and doing a shorter race while they're doing the 120 miler.
Nice test! I rode my FX2 on gravel too. It's not bad. It's the downhill and turns on gravel trails that need an upgrade to gravel bike, or mtb. Really depends on the terrain and how you ride the trails.
Thanks man, and totally agree
Amazing video, picking up mine next week 🤟
Sweet!! Fun bike. I put WTB Riddlers on it, made it a lot more capable on gravel. Let me know how you like it!
@@BIIIKES thanks mate! I am totally new to cycling so will drop a sub on your channel. I need to learn the ropes on maintenance etc
@@BIIIKES one thing I need to ask, were there any negatives with the bike itself? I heard on some forums that the transmission takes time to brake in? That it can skip gears?
@@Big_Boss92depends which FX you get, but just remember the frames are all identical. You can always upgrade the drivetrain. It's not the best groupset, but you can upgrade it. I haven't skipped gears or anything, but I'm the person who cleans and lubes my chain after every ride (unless it's just around the blockb with my girls).
@@BIIIKES I am going for the 2022 FX 2. Which size do you ride? I am 5'11
Great info, thanks!
Welcome!!
Thanks for the video! I’m thinking of getting the fx2 mainly for commute in the city and seems it would behave good on some gravel too. Other option I was considering was the dual sport, but that doesn’t seem as much fun as the fx.
Both are great bikes. If there's any off road to your commute, or if you decide to venture off, the dual sport will definitely be more comfortable... but can't go wrong with either!
@@BIIIKESI plan to ride 80% on pavement and 20% light off road. In this scenario would you think the fx would be a better choice? Also, do you know about the seating position, would it not be too stiff for the back for the fx bike? Anyhow, I’m planing to visit my local bike shop this weekend, fingers crossed that they both are in stock.
I think the Dual Sport and the bigger tires might feel a little more plush overall, but neither will be a bad choice. Both are upright riding positions, and super relaxed and comfortable.
Thanks for the input, really helpful!
Very welcome!! Keep me posted 🤙
I thought for sure you would flat with those 35 c tires. I just got a new leftover 2021 FX Carbon Sport 4. Almost 700 off the original price when they first came out. I dont think it will ever leave pavement with the 32c tires. Light as all get out ( Barely 21 pounds ) and incredibly fast for a flat bar bike. Its my "silver bullet". LOL
I have upgraded mine with 37mm carbon wheels, it looks even better.
Great review..
Thanks! Just everyday talk!
Thanks
Matching N+1s?!? Your wife needs to talk to mine! 😂 She recently upbiked from a 2017 FX2 (V brakes, not disc) because it was too playful on our local gravel trails and she wanted faster gearing and drop bars so she passed it on to our 14yo son and upbiked to a Specialized Diverge E5 (alloy, 2x10).
Haha yes, matching N+1s. Dude, I got her a 2022 Top Fuel for Christmas too... so even more N+1 matchy matchy going on.
Ah cool I mean but why? Just put skinnier tires and idk 67* and up mtb 1x. Clutch derailleur. You know little off topic but I bought a GT performer 29er like re make wheelie monster. And there was a perfect yellow haro Caballero. It’s had that bmx nice upright frame. But on a set of cromo 170 something mm. Cranks but on bmx so stronger splined bottom bracket. Tektro 160 mechanical brakes felt good. Tapered fork with boss mounts. Nice upright tall stack so no hunching over. Had the idk 9 or 10 spd advent clutch derailleur. The seat tube 30.9 so any dropper post side. I regret not buying it instead. You could bike back wheelie it and always in an upright position. But can easily peda ahead of the bottom bracket for power. I’m 6’1/2” tall and it was a large and felt perfect.
Haha, love it
Bike riding and some humor.
"'That's what she said!"
Hahaha
Wish you brought fuel and compared/contrasted back to back.
Great idea 🤙
Which FX model are you riding in this video? I test rode the FX 4 disc today and it felt super hard on gravel but really smooth on asphalt. The tires were 700x32, I’d say 700x38 would be better on gravel.
Hey dude- FX2. I've since put 700x37 WTB Riddlers. Much better 👌
Do you think a used Trek FX 2 without disc brakes for $150 would be fine for neighborhood roads and cement park trails mostly and sometimes on gravel or compact dirt trails or nature trails? Not mountain biking though. Just park trails, nature trails, and neighborhood rides. Or should I get a brand new Trek Dual Sport 3 with disc brakes I’ve had my mind on for $1K for the extra suspension and better components? I will mainly use it for exercise on cement parks and neighborhood rides but sometimes more recreationally on dirt or gravel nature trails. I know I repeated myself but I’m tired after work and want to make sure I’m clear. Would appreciate your input. Thank you!
So my FX 2 has disc brakes, but if you're asking which one I would choose, it would depend on if you have any other bikes as well. If this is your only bike, I would go Dual Sport or even a Marlin. If you already have a mountain bike, I would go FX.
@@BIIIKES Thank you! Yes, this will be my only bike for now.
Yeah man, I say get something a bit more versatile. You're going to get hooked riding on trails. You'll be able to do that with less worry on the DS or Marlin. I got the FX as a road/gravel bike to not put unnecessary wear and tear on my Top Fuel. Definitely time and place for each bike! Have fun, man. All bikes are awesome.
@@BIIIKES My biggest concern is speed and comfort. I want to be able to ride fast but not be annoyed riding over bumps or potholes. If I’m riding much less on nature trails should I stick with DS instead of a Marlin? I think the Marlin will be heavy and not as fast as the DS plus with a DS I can lock the suspension for concrete city streets and cement bike trails which I’ll be on 80-90% of the time. What do you think?
You can lock the suspension on the Marlin as well. I think for your needs the DS could be a good compromise! Test ride each one. The Marlin is pretty fast (was my first real bike). I love it.
I live in area where bad asphalt is rampant and I also ride on gravel roads. I am thinking of buying a Trek FX3 2022, but due to my needs, change the stock 32mm tires to 42mm or wider if I can. is this possible to do? I am not going to use fenders with this bike. What is the widest tire I can use? Ideally, I wanted to use a 42mm at the back and 45mm in front. Thank you
Hey, not sure of the 2022 FX3s, but max tire width is always listed in the specs in their bike descriptions (Trekbikes website). You might be better off with a dual sport or FX Sport. My 2021 FX is maybe a 40 or so max (give or take). I put 37mm WTB Riddlers on there and like it.
Hey man, cool review. What do you think of dual sport 3 Vs fx3?
Thanks! Dual sport might be a bit more versatile if you only had 1 bike (little bit of front suspension and room for beefier tires). If you have room for a MTB and another bike, I'd go with the FX as your 2nd option. If you could only get 1 flat bar bike, go with the dual sport.
What computer are you running? Do you recommend it, or would you buy something different next time. I'm just getting onto cycling myself. I just bought a FX-4, and I'm looking for decent accessories. I've been considering the Bontrager RIDEtime Elite but I'm not too sure what's out there. Thanks!
Hey! Garmin Edge 530. Highly recommend it. I got it so I could explore and not really worry about not knowing how to get back. Easy to use. I have a Garmin Instinct watch also, and the button layout matches the watch. Thanks for watching! I just it on my FX and my Top Fuel.
@@BIIIKES Thanks, i'll check it out.
@@BIIIKES I looked into and I love it. Thanks for the tip BTW. I'm not sure how much of the GPS function i'll use but who knows. It will at least give me an excuse to adventure in places I'm not familiar with. What I like the most about it is the alarm. I'll feel more comfortable turning my back on the bike for a minute or two. Pure genius! Thanks!!
@@jimdent351 Very welcome!
FX 2 is not made for gravel, unfortunately. FX 2 is a very harsh riding bike and the drivetrain is very basic and the bike is very heavy. FX sport line would be a better fit for gravel but then you will have to spend more money.
I did unPAved Susquehanna on the FX. Not "made" for it, but sometimes you gotta ride what you brung 🤘
302 and that looks like the C&D so you guys must be in Delaware I’m just getting into riding a bike after not being on one since 02 where in Delaware are there trails to ride?
Welcome back to riding! So many places in Delaware to ride. Gravel, trails, etc. White Clay, Lums, Brandywine, Fair Hill (MD), Redd Park, etc etc. Too many to name. Give it a Google to see.
This tire size is 35 is any problem to go in rubbish road?
No issues. More about the tire tread/cyclist ability, rather than the width.
What size frame is that bike. The reason I ask is because the seat looks a little low in comparison to other videos. Is that just how you prefer to ride, or is the bike larger than you need? Thanks.
It's an XL
@@BIIIKES Wow, quick reply. lol. I'm trying to figure out what size I need, and I see all these videos where the seat is so high from the frame. Is that the way they're supposed to be set up? I only thought that was for speed bikes. I'm looking at an FX-2 but not sure what size I need.
@@jamesd6877 So, I'm 6', and would've gotten a L, but they didn't have the color I wanted. I ended up getting an XL and had the bike tech lower the seat post and fit me to it. Hope that helps!
@@BIIIKES Thanks. I'm 5'-10" and they're pushing me towards a Med. but at the same time that's all they have stock in now. I kind of feel like the med might be wrong when there isn't a large to look at. I like to compare. I think I better shop around and find a shop that has both. Thanks.
@@jamesd6877 Go onto the Trek website, bring up the bike you want, pop in your zip, and it'll show you every store that has it in stock. Keep me posted! Yes, a med is too small. I ride a M/L Top Fuel as my MTB (I want to throw the bike around, but for my hybrid I like it a little bigger. Still super comfy. I feel like you'd be too cramped in a Med.
Am planning to buy a bike but confused which one is better Giant escape 3 or Trek fx1 Giant escape 3 has 38" tries Trek has 35" tires.
And Trek has Shimano Altus but Giant has Shimano tourney only so am confused plz suggest me 🙏
Depends what you want to do, but I’m a Trek guy… so you know which one I’d recommend, haha. I would go a bit higher than the FX1 though (maybe to a 2 or 3). Hydraulic disc brakes, and a bit better components at that point.
@@BIIIKES Thankyou 👍
Hi,
How tall you are?
This area looks familiar. :-)
C&D 🤙🤙🤙
You need to bring your audio level way down,
Which audio track? The voice, gravel or music? I use a db sensor and all three were equal. I turn the treble up a bit (10% gain) in post to hear the gravel, flip the extra mic on the GoPro on for voice (then clear any wind noise in post) and have music at 65-70%. Can you be more specific?
@@BIIIKES yeah hes right man
Let me know if it's the same on other videos too. I'll adjust 👍
@@BIIIKES This is strange, I think my comment went to the wrong video. You know how if you watch a video and it ends if you don't pause it goes to the next video? I think that is what must have happened because this video sounds fine.
The older ones lighter better shape. Dont like the new ones at all.
Don’t buy it n shut up
What tire pressure do you use?
Not sure - these have tubes. I only really get particular when I'm riding tubeless set ups.
Likely better on a rigid steel mountain bike from the 80’s or 90’s.
If that's what you bring to rides, then have fun and ride what you brung! Good luck getting replacement parts though.
@@BIIIKES very easy for replacement parts. You can find everything. I love my Trek Lync 5, as well. But Trek tends to put too much proprietary parts on their new bikes.
I own 9 Treks lol. Which parts are proprietary? Knock Block etc are removable.
@@BIIIKES duo trap, brackets on bars, some racks, the internal lighting, on the nicer Treks. Downside of cheap Treks are the free hub not a cassette.
I guess you're right, haha.
What tires can I put on this bike
Depends if you use 700c or 650b wheels. The Trek website lists the max tire width. I currently run 700c x 38mm WTB gravel tires.
@@BIIIKES it’s the 700x35
The only true test is pain you know the deal
Which number is this fx 1 or 2 or 3
Hey! FX 2
@@BIIIKES I was in the shop looking at it today ..in your opinion is the bike worth the money
Depends what your plans are for it. Commuter? Vacation bike? Road bike with a more relaxed geometry? If so, yes. If you're looking for a trail bike or a serious gravel bike, look at something else. Or, potentially go up to a 3, 4 or even FX Sport.
Take it for a test ride.
🙏
That's a urban/fitness/commuter bike, not a gravel. Can be used for gravel? Obviously.
Thanks for watching!