I’m 65. Used to race Norba ride a road bike thousands of miles. Had a Sworks stumpjumper but I’m just too old to keep up with better riders (read younger) this bike my bike Fuel 9.8 XT is great for my situation. Fun to ride and I have a blast
I'm riding a Trek Fuel ex8 and it's a great bike to climb with and loves to shred the downhill trails. Very fast, fun and forgiving, a great all rounder
Just bought the 9.7 and I'm LOVING it! WAY more bike than I am a rider, but it has already inspired so much more confidence! Climbs pretty well and downhill is like riding a magic carpet - just a BLAST!
Trek hit a home run with new Fuel EX. I suspect the Slash will be getting the same updates as the Fuel next year. That will be one hell of a weapon. Excellent review Jon, video and audio was dialed.
Thanks man! Look forward to your thoughts on your set up. I agree the slash will prolly have the similar adjustability I just hope it doesn't weigh even more! 😅
@@matthew_4589 I dunno the slash already has the downtube storage etc. And the rear flip chip. It's already an 8-9lb frame I don't think it would get much heavier . My fuel ex is now 32lbs with pedals and enduro tires. Dream build video coming soon. ;)
@@Projectnortheast on the carbon variant I can see how the extra durability would be needed but on the aluminum models there is more than enough strength and the could just add the headset flip chip and it would be just as goo
@@matthew_4589 well if they did the same with the slash it would mean adding the shock mount flip chip as well as the headset cup. Which... I'm not sure how much weight the headset would add... prolly only a few grams over an IS headset
I bought this bike late summer, you are so right about the tires, I slipped on a side rock and broke my tibia and fibula on my first ride with it. I definitely will swap the tires in the spring. Awesome review, I didn’t realized the bike could perform as well in the tech trails. Thanks again
I think trek did a great job with this bike, reminds me of the stumpjumper evo, adjustable to suit anyones build / riding style. It looks like a very fun bike. I cant say in surprised that you were bottoming on rim w those tires.
I will say, you guys were riding way more intense stuff than I will probably ever touch. Just ordered the EX7 Gen 6. AFAIK it doesn't have that weird unified stem/handlebar, and it has Rockshox fork instead of the Fox. I will probably give the stock Bontrager tires a little time, but I imagine I will probably switch out to the Maxxis Highroller II front and Ardent rear that I've been running on my old 26" hard tail. I love those tires. So much fun.
Good video. After watching it I watched your "quiver killer" Top Fuel video as well and am a little surprised you like this better. I'm trying to decide between the two and was leaning towards the TF because I can't get past the weight of the EX but you have me second guessing that now.
@plmn93 if you want the best of both worlds and slightly lighter than the fuel ex the Deviate Highlander II is what I'm currently testing... kindof descends better than the fuel ex and is much lighter frame wise but still pedals as fast I feel
I'm late to the party. I picked up the same bike over the summer (July 2023) - Fuel Ex 9.8 XT in the same blue. I'd agree that this is the funnest bike I've thrown a leg over. I've been riding it 70% urban and 30% at the local trails. I like to say that adjustable geometry makes the bike even more flexible. I've only flipped the shock chip, giving the travel a little more progression. Totally a personal choice. The in-frame storage is great bonus, and should't be overlooked. While it very tight with a standard tube, I recommend using a TPU tube. They are so much thinner - leaving lots of room in the "bits bag" for two large CO2 units, a plug kit, tire lever and a CO2 inflator. I'd like to point out I'm a heavier rider and haven't had the same issues with the tires. They are fine, just fine tires and shouldn't be a deal breaker for anyone. (Like all tires they are easily to replace.) Great review and good job showing off the deep blue color of the bike. In pictures the blue looks too dark, in the sun its really nice.
For years the Fuel EX competed with the Trance for the ultimate all around value trail bike but fell behind the last 5-7 years. This update was desperately needed, I'm super stoked Trek modernized the Fuel EX!
That flow section at 15:00 min mark looks fun as hell. Have yet to hit Pine Hills can't wait until Spring. Good review. Looking to replace my Ibis Ripmo this season and go w 160mm up front as you suggested. Thanks man!
About the only things I would change on that build is ditch the one piece bar/stem for a regular stem and OneUp carbon bars, and toss a GRIP 2 upgrade kit into the fork, and ditch those garbage grade Bontrager tires. I get a laugh out of Bontrager "team issue" tires, the Trek factory race team is running Maxxis with the logos sharpied out on the Enduro and DH bikes, and Schwalbe with logos sharpied out on the XC bikes.
I also want to be 3 bike guy ! Looking into the AL version as I know it is going to dinged up on the gnarly trials I want to use it for, and I don’t was worry about it.
I like the frame on both the 9.8 (carbon) and the aluminum Gen 5. The 9.8 you dont need to do any upgrades for a while but at $6.5k you better not have too. The Low end Gen 5 at $2.6k you need to upgrade right away. Man that suspension is really bad and extreamly cheap (other parts the same). I love that black look with Trek in silver its sweet looking. Both frames look solid.
Thanks for the chill and understandable vid, you talk on a level, not smashing my head with stuff I don’t understand. I picked up my Fuel Ex 8 last weekend. Been out of MTB for a few years and getting back on it. Mainly gonna be doing trail blasts but taking it to Bike Park Wales in a couple of weeks. Hope it performs as well as the reviews sound. Cheers dude.
Maybe a begginer answer... fun in cycle world is risk, crash, etc. In engine mode... dead... Enjoy man 😊 I bought it the Top Fuel 7. I was looking for a fitness mtb. No helmet, no risks. That's the liberty that now I'm looking for. No friends, no cars (then I think the EX is not as fun as the top F, you know you have to pedaling till the mountains) , me and my bike exploring my local medum (1200m.) mountains on long days. The life is funny ❤.
Need DH casing tires and tubeless with these bikes if you're riding the lift all day, other than that, just like the Remedy 8, this is a great package for a LOT of different kinds of riding
Hello great channel! I’m 51 wanting to get into mtb as a hobby. I’m looking at the 2022 trek fuel ex5 & Fezzari abajo it’s an out of stalk bike that the ARI is offering me for $1200! The trek is selling for $1700 on sale normally $2700 (both bikes look very similar except for price! What bike would you recommend?
Great review! I’m a 57 year old guy still trying to get after it living in Florida. I just about convince myself to get the top fuel which would be amazing. I’ve thrown a leg over it and love it. My only concern about the top fuel is the rear suspension and me wondering if I would want to it be just a bit more plush. Now watching this if you truly think you’re not giving up all that much to the top fuel pedaling I’m thinking this would be the bike I would like. If I were to get the top fuel I would switch the fork to 130 upfront but now I’m thinking this one. I do like to ride the steep technical‘s that are above my pay grade and I think this would be the better choice what are your thoughts? I’m never going to cross country race but I spent plenty of time on those trails and then hitting the blues and blacks when I can.
I always steer clear of suggesting what bike would be right for someone. I mean the top fuel is a very capable bike. It's hard suggesting something for someone not knowing their riding skills, what they like to ride or anything really. As I've never been just a one bike guy so trying to pick the one bike for someone is tough. If my interests were to ride smooth trails with little elevation and smaller features and I wanted to do more xc riding I'd lean top fuel. If I were most interested in a fun bike that pedals well and I love riding through tech, hitting features, lean more toward the enduro style of riding and could care less about having a couple extra pounds of bike but I also want a plusher ride that can get rowdy I'd go fuel EX. Hope that helps...
That would really depend on the type of terrain I was riding... if I wanted to do more jumps or drops and progress my riding etc and didn't mind a low 30ish lb bike then I would say yes. But if I'm strictly riding smoother singketrack and I don't get my wheels off the ground much and just want to trail ride with nothing super steep I'd prolly just stick with the Gen 5
I’m interested in this bike, but that integrated handlebar and stem will have to go. Will Trek sell the bike with a regular stem? Not everyone has average body dimensions.
Great review! You mentioned the demo was a size medium large. Would you mind sharing how tall you are? I’m 6’ even but the size Large of my current gen5 fuel ex 9.7 feels just a wee bit big. Thanks.
Yeah hence the name bologna skins... they just have no real sidewall support to them at all. Even for trail riding I found the traction on humid rocks to be sub-par when you compare with a premium tire from maxxis or vittoria
As of right now I still have my top fuel and the fuel ex as a 3rd. But I really don't know if the top fuel is gonna get any use haha maybe it'll go up for sale
Just got the Fuel EX 8 gen 6, can't ride it till Saturday big storm is hitting us tonight. Had to drive 4 hours to pick it up. Now this is a mean looking bike and it looks and feels bulletproof, the pictures don't do the bike justice. One thing I missed and didn't realized is they come tubeless ready which is kinda nice, don't know how I missed that on the spec sheet. That caught me by surprise. Depends on the Fuel EX model you get though. My question is did you hit that tree at 5:41?
For me, it's pretty easy... the Gen 6 fuel ex is ridiculously good. I've had stumpjumpers and while they are a fun bike I think your getting more of a bike with the trek in this instance...
@Desibyl Did you ever decide ? I also am between these two bikes - Well Im between the SJ EVO Comp $3749 and the Fuel EX7 Gen 6 $3200 at the time of this posting - somewhat close spec... but yeah did you get one?
@@deaconnyte9748 I haven't riden the Trek so I can't compare them. However, the biggest reason was easy access to repairs and parts. None of the bike shops near me stock Trek bikes at all, so repairing one would be difficult or costly... I've also been doing research and have found really good things being said about the Specialized brand as well as the SJ EVO bike. But if you have the ability to ride and test both, definitely do so! It's always best to test ride ones you're looking into.
I did not... wanted to kindof push the limits of the bike at the bike park but also riding xc with it I couldn't beleive how intuitive it cornered that I didn't want to change anything
how high were those drops you went off of? Im considering getting the new fuel ex and planning to do a few enduro races this year with it. What are your thoughts on it as far as enduro? thanks in advance and great video.
The drops in the video are anywhere from 6-10' with good transitions. I was pleasantly surprised how well it handled one particular drop that is usually pretty harsh. I think it do well at less gnarly enduro races where your rewarded with a more efficient bike. With a 160 fork and premium rear shock it could be a one bike. It's no slash though and definitely won't charge the steep chunk as fast. So it really depends on the rider and the terrain as usual.
If you had the option to buy a fuel ex 5 gen 5 for $2000 or a fuel ex 7 gen 6 for $3000, would you make the upgrade. I have never had a real mtb before, only a 15+ year old trek fuel 70 which the frame broke on me. The trails near me are more xc focus but I still want to explore more downhill places and even some bike parks in the future and really don't want to buy more than one mtb. Any advice?
I would go for the Gen 6 every time. It's the perfect one bike imo... pedals good enough to enjoy xc all day and has a stout frame and components to rock at the bike park.
On the fuel ex I used what I had laying around so 2.4's. I did a martello front and agarro rear. Think I may change to a martello rear and a mazza trail front though... just more fun
@@Projectnortheast do you feel that is the right size for you? I have a Trek Roscoe 8 and I’m the same height as you. Mine is a medium /large, but it feels like I should have gone with a medium
@bryanmiller5692 yes feel it was the perfect size for me. I have long arms but also I ran a 32mm stem (super short) and felt it was perfect. Have you looked at running a shorter stem?
I’m 5’11 and picked up a Fuel EX 8 gen 6 in a large. Do you feel that an ok size for my rider height? Feels fine riding it and it’s super fun but by nature just looks like a big bike maybe because of it being a 29’er.
handled everything surprisingly well. the last drop on ne style is about 10' but with a good transition. I don't know if I would consider doing park with this all the time but it certainly handled everything I through at it . rim protector and some better tires and it's extremely capable
@Projectnortheast MTB 👍 I bought a new 2.4 Martello Trail recently but had to return it because it was 1070 grams, way over the claimed weight. The 2.6 Agarro I got was under the claimed weight (970) at 960 grams. Put on a Tioga Edge 22 up front which is an awesome front tire paired with the Agarro out back. Great amount of grip for how fast they both roll, especially the Edge 22.
Hard to compare the 140 is 27.5 and this is full 29. Completely different bikes really. The yeti will be light and poppy and fun in the air but prolly slower rolling with the smaller wheels etc.
Love the bike design ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxHL1v1R3NE5x4KiYfyt8dnQmyNYz7qi5L and functionality. It is hard to align the front tired to center the disk brakes. The brake wheel touches the stationery side of the brake caliper and pad. I aired the tire up to 40 psi as the markings say 40-60psi. Left the house for a few hours and came back to an exploded innertube.All in all it seems to be a good bike. Have not ridden it yet though so that's the max of my knowledge. Update, put a new innertube made sure the tire was set properly and it did the same thing in under 20 minutes as second pic shows.
The switchblade is a good all rounder as well but not as confident in the steeps since it's pretty old geometry wise. The trek would be alot more versatile as well
Every bike trek releases gets named as incredible (slash, top fuel, fuel ex, exe, etc). And I can tell you having briefly owned a slash gen 5 before selling it, there was nothing special about it uphill or downhill. I'm not saying they don't make decent stuff but seems bike reviews love the trek kool aid!
The fuel ex and the slash Gen 5 are both insanely good bikes. What set the Gen 5 slash apart was basically it did everything well and you could set it up and ride huge mountain tech lines or huge jumps... so it's not kool-aid. You can see my latest review on the slash Gen 6 and then see if it's just kool-aid lol
No issues with assembly for me ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxHL1v1R3NE5x4KiYfyt8dnQmyNYz7qi5L but I could see where some might benefit from using an experienced bike assembler/mechanic. I'm an older rider starting back after a 10 year break. This bike exceeds my capabilities and has been easy to get comfortable riding. I'm mostly on easy trails with almost no street riding and have not been disappointed with the performance of the bike. My fitness level is far below what I previously rode with and because of that the mileage is going on the bike slowly. While I'm losing weight slowly, the bike seems to tolerate my 220 pounds just fine. The bike has been used by several family members ranging from 5'5" - 5'9".
Personally despise Trek industry. They've taken a majority of the company...overseas. And they denied/rejected/screwed Lance Armstrong. My woman, loves the Trek Fuel ex8. Tried to get her to purchase a Cube or a Vitus. Nope. She prefers the quality ride of the ex8. However, the Whyte stays inside the house. The Trek, stays in the shed.
This is odd man. Either your tires are odd balls or there is whole another issue. 30+PSI on this bike on this tire is ridiculous. I rode the $hit out of XR4s on 20PSI and under and they were fine....very odd mate.
Lol ok... gopro and youtube have a serious way of dumbing down terrain. I was riding a properly set up bike for my 155lb frame on black and double black diamond downhill trails. I have full on DH casing tires I've bottomed out at 30psi on the same trails without an insert. Maybe your not being as aggressive as you think...
Fyi I still think the tires are junk and perform like dog turd in the wet new england rock on black diamond DH trails. They would be well suited for jump trails or regular trail riding or may even be ok with an insert but still... not much sidewall support on these. Same with the slash at 30psi my buddy and I were rolling the tires in high speed berms
@zureai really depends on what you want to do with it... the fuel ex is a very capable trail bike for all kinds of mtb trails from straight up xc to dh trails depending on how you set it up. I would imagine it being pretty overkill for urban riding. Unless you see yourself wanting to dive into trails and hit that urban staircase or whatever
@@Projectnortheast Yeah well I’m just learning about the world of biking. So I probably wouldn’t be doing dirt trails with jumps and whatnot. Mostly just biking around for some exercise, or just to be outside when it’s nice. Mainly urban pathways and gravel trails. I’ve been looking at entry level bikes but none of them look as enticing as the full suspension higher end models hahaha
For me, design is like a rockrider bike.... Down joint for the shox is like 2000 carrefour bike...🤣🤣🤣 maybe with lots of 🤑🤑🤑 trek could buy reviews and videos
![The 12 "Backwards" MTB Basics for Beginners [The RIGHT Way - 4K]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/IfwwgTkrTU4/mqdefault.jpg)
I’m 65. Used to race Norba ride a road bike thousands of miles. Had a Sworks stumpjumper but I’m just too old to keep up with better riders (read younger) this bike my bike Fuel 9.8 XT is great for my situation. Fun to ride and I have a blast
I'm riding a Trek Fuel ex8 and it's a great bike to climb with and loves to shred the downhill trails. Very fast, fun and forgiving, a great all rounder
Just bought the 9.7 and I'm LOVING it! WAY more bike than I am a rider, but it has already inspired so much more confidence! Climbs pretty well and downhill is like riding a magic carpet - just a BLAST!
Awesome!
Trek hit a home run with new Fuel EX. I suspect the Slash will be getting the same updates as the Fuel next year. That will be one hell of a weapon. Excellent review Jon, video and audio was dialed.
Thanks man! Look forward to your thoughts on your set up. I agree the slash will prolly have the similar adjustability I just hope it doesn't weigh even more! 😅
Doing this on the slash will turn a 35 lb bike into a 40 lb bike just like the fuel ex went from 31 lb to 35lb
@@matthew_4589 I dunno the slash already has the downtube storage etc. And the rear flip chip. It's already an 8-9lb frame I don't think it would get much heavier . My fuel ex is now 32lbs with pedals and enduro tires. Dream build video coming soon. ;)
@@Projectnortheast on the carbon variant I can see how the extra durability would be needed but on the aluminum models there is more than enough strength and the could just add the headset flip chip and it would be just as goo
@@matthew_4589 well if they did the same with the slash it would mean adding the shock mount flip chip as well as the headset cup. Which... I'm not sure how much weight the headset would add... prolly only a few grams over an IS headset
Hell yeah. So glad to find this video right after nabbing a 22 Fuel EX
I have a pretty small budget so I brought this in the uk for £2600 ..
It’s a pleasure to ride and would recommend it to any noob like myself
Great review, I appreciate everything you did in this video! Keep it up, you helped me decide on the Trek EX 9.8 2023.
Thanks!
I bought this bike late summer, you are so right about the tires, I slipped on a side rock and broke my tibia and fibula on my first ride with it. I definitely will swap the tires in the spring. Awesome review, I didn’t realized the bike could perform as well in the tech trails. Thanks again
First thing I did was minion dhr Maxxis
I think trek did a great job with this bike, reminds me of the stumpjumper evo, adjustable to suit anyones build / riding style. It looks like a very fun bike. I cant say in surprised that you were bottoming on rim w those tires.
if they put a little sidewall support in their tires maybe they wouldn't need to make their rims so heavy? lol
I will say, you guys were riding way more intense stuff than I will probably ever touch. Just ordered the EX7 Gen 6. AFAIK it doesn't have that weird unified stem/handlebar, and it has Rockshox fork instead of the Fox. I will probably give the stock Bontrager tires a little time, but I imagine I will probably switch out to the Maxxis Highroller II front and Ardent rear that I've been running on my old 26" hard tail. I love those tires. So much fun.
Good video. After watching it I watched your "quiver killer" Top Fuel video as well and am a little surprised you like this better. I'm trying to decide between the two and was leaning towards the TF because I can't get past the weight of the EX but you have me second guessing that now.
@plmn93 if you want the best of both worlds and slightly lighter than the fuel ex the Deviate Highlander II is what I'm currently testing... kindof descends better than the fuel ex and is much lighter frame wise but still pedals as fast I feel
I'm late to the party. I picked up the same bike over the summer (July 2023) - Fuel Ex 9.8 XT in the same blue. I'd agree that this is the funnest bike I've thrown a leg over. I've been riding it 70% urban and 30% at the local trails.
I like to say that adjustable geometry makes the bike even more flexible. I've only flipped the shock chip, giving the travel a little more progression. Totally a personal choice.
The in-frame storage is great bonus, and should't be overlooked. While it very tight with a standard tube, I recommend using a TPU tube. They are so much thinner - leaving lots of room in the "bits bag" for two large CO2 units, a plug kit, tire lever and a CO2 inflator.
I'd like to point out I'm a heavier rider and haven't had the same issues with the tires. They are fine, just fine tires and shouldn't be a deal breaker for anyone. (Like all tires they are easily to replace.)
Great review and good job showing off the deep blue color of the bike. In pictures the blue looks too dark, in the sun its really nice.
For years the Fuel EX competed with the Trance for the ultimate all around value trail bike but fell behind the last 5-7 years. This update was desperately needed, I'm super stoked Trek modernized the Fuel EX!
Didn't the previous model only come out 7 years ago?
That flow section at 15:00 min mark looks fun as hell. Have yet to hit Pine Hills can't wait until Spring. Good review. Looking to replace my Ibis Ripmo this season and go w 160mm up front as you suggested. Thanks man!
Great video! I liked the DH/trail split review.
About the only things I would change on that build is ditch the one piece bar/stem for a regular stem and OneUp carbon bars, and toss a GRIP 2 upgrade kit into the fork, and ditch those garbage grade Bontrager tires. I get a laugh out of Bontrager "team issue" tires, the Trek factory race team is running Maxxis with the logos sharpied out on the Enduro and DH bikes, and Schwalbe with logos sharpied out on the XC bikes.
I've got a fuel ex thats 14 years old. Still love it
great review with some actual riding. great vid!
I also want to be 3 bike guy ! Looking into the AL version as I know it is going to dinged up on the gnarly trials I want to use it for, and I don’t was worry about it.
Nice review!.... and I like to see u rep pine hills!
I wish I lived closer! So much fun
Great video and review. I got a Fuel EX 9.8 about two months ago and am loving it
I like the frame on both the 9.8 (carbon) and the aluminum Gen 5. The 9.8 you dont need to do any upgrades for a while but at $6.5k you better not have too. The Low end Gen 5 at $2.6k you need to upgrade right away. Man that suspension is really bad and extreamly cheap (other parts the same). I love that black look with Trek in silver its sweet looking. Both frames look solid.
That's a great lookin bike. Love Trek. Big in the game and they know how to build em
Thanks for the chill and understandable vid, you talk on a level, not smashing my head with stuff I don’t understand.
I picked up my Fuel Ex 8 last weekend. Been out of MTB for a few years and getting back on it. Mainly gonna be doing trail blasts but taking it to Bike Park Wales in a couple of weeks. Hope it performs as well as the reviews sound.
Cheers dude.
Thank you my friend! Hope you enjoy it and welcome back!
Maybe a begginer answer... fun in cycle world is risk, crash, etc. In engine mode... dead... Enjoy man 😊
I bought it the Top Fuel 7.
I was looking for a fitness mtb.
No helmet, no risks.
That's the liberty that now I'm looking for.
No friends, no cars (then I think the EX is not as fun as the top F, you know you have to pedaling till the mountains) , me and my bike exploring my local medum (1200m.) mountains on long days.
The life is funny ❤.
Need DH casing tires and tubeless with these bikes if you're riding the lift all day, other than that, just like the Remedy 8, this is a great package for a LOT of different kinds of riding
Hello great channel! I’m 51 wanting to get into mtb as a hobby. I’m looking at the 2022 trek fuel ex5 & Fezzari abajo it’s an out of stalk bike that the ARI is offering me for $1200! The trek is selling for $1700 on sale normally $2700 (both bikes look very similar except for price! What bike would you recommend?
@frankhernandez5903 is the fuel ex Gen 5 or Gen 6?
Great review! I’m a 57 year old guy still trying to get after it living in Florida. I just about convince myself to get the top fuel which would be amazing. I’ve thrown a leg over it and love it. My only concern about the top fuel is the rear suspension and me wondering if I would want to it be just a bit more plush. Now watching this if you truly think you’re not giving up all that much to the top fuel pedaling I’m thinking this would be the bike I would like. If I were to get the top fuel I would switch the fork to 130 upfront but now I’m thinking this one. I do like to ride the steep technical‘s that are above my pay grade and I think this would be the better choice what are your thoughts? I’m never going to cross country race but I spent plenty of time on those trails and then hitting the blues and blacks when I can.
I always steer clear of suggesting what bike would be right for someone. I mean the top fuel is a very capable bike. It's hard suggesting something for someone not knowing their riding skills, what they like to ride or anything really. As I've never been just a one bike guy so trying to pick the one bike for someone is tough. If my interests were to ride smooth trails with little elevation and smaller features and I wanted to do more xc riding I'd lean top fuel. If I were most interested in a fun bike that pedals well and I love riding through tech, hitting features, lean more toward the enduro style of riding and could care less about having a couple extra pounds of bike but I also want a plusher ride that can get rowdy I'd go fuel EX. Hope that helps...
@@Projectnortheast Thanks I’m enjoying your channel
TOP FUEL > cross country > slightly faster speed > travel on suspension / FUEL EX > trail bike > slightly less speed and more suspension travel
depends on where you're riding and how you're riding
My trek gravel bike is still going strong the polygon is doing well as well
Great review and honest what is your opinion comparing GEN five and GEN 6 EX if you had a five, would you upgrade?
That would really depend on the type of terrain I was riding... if I wanted to do more jumps or drops and progress my riding etc and didn't mind a low 30ish lb bike then I would say yes. But if I'm strictly riding smoother singketrack and I don't get my wheels off the ground much and just want to trail ride with nothing super steep I'd prolly just stick with the Gen 5
Thank you for answering my question most of the time you’ll never hear back
I’m interested in this bike, but that integrated handlebar and stem will have to go. Will Trek sell the bike with a regular stem? Not everyone has average body dimensions.
@jimbo6993 the lower end models will probably come with a normal stem and bar set up
Bro u can rip, # respect !
I just grabbed a 9.8 GX AXS for $4k and I'm BLOWN AWAY!
Noice solid deal!
Great review! You mentioned the demo was a size medium large. Would you mind sharing how tall you are? I’m 6’ even but the size Large of my current gen5 fuel ex 9.7 feels just a wee bit big. Thanks.
I'm like 5'9"... it fits pretty good you may be able to run a size Large but with just a really short stem
35psi and still pinging rims!?!? 😧 Dang
Defo sounds like a more trail-oriented tire
Great review; love the park/trail split, very cool 🤙🏻
Yeah hence the name bologna skins... they just have no real sidewall support to them at all. Even for trail riding I found the traction on humid rocks to be sub-par when you compare with a premium tire from maxxis or vittoria
Great vid / review. Would the Fuel EX replace your Top Fuel, or the F-EX is added to the family, and makes up the 3 😅
As of right now I still have my top fuel and the fuel ex as a 3rd. But I really don't know if the top fuel is gonna get any use haha maybe it'll go up for sale
Nice review...and love to see the 603
Yocal local!
Just got the Fuel EX 8 gen 6, can't ride it till Saturday big storm is hitting us tonight. Had to drive 4 hours to pick it up. Now this is a mean looking bike and it looks and feels bulletproof, the pictures don't do the bike justice. One thing I missed and didn't realized is they come tubeless ready which is kinda nice, don't know how I missed that on the spec sheet. That caught me by surprise. Depends on the Fuel EX model you get though.
My question is did you hit that tree at 5:41?
I know this post is from months ago, but how do you like it?
I'm torn between the Specialized Stumpjumper Comp Alloy and the Fuel EX 7 Gen 6. It would be my first MTB. Not sure which one I should get
For me, it's pretty easy... the Gen 6 fuel ex is ridiculously good. I've had stumpjumpers and while they are a fun bike I think your getting more of a bike with the trek in this instance...
@Desibyl Did you ever decide ? I also am between these two bikes - Well Im between the SJ EVO Comp $3749 and the Fuel EX7 Gen 6 $3200 at the time of this posting - somewhat close spec... but yeah did you get one?
@@deaconnyte9748 yea, I ended up getting the Stumpjumper Evo Comp Alloy! Absolutely love it!
@@DeSibyl by chance did you ride / look at both bikes? What was your deciding factor?
@@deaconnyte9748 I haven't riden the Trek so I can't compare them. However, the biggest reason was easy access to repairs and parts. None of the bike shops near me stock Trek bikes at all, so repairing one would be difficult or costly... I've also been doing research and have found really good things being said about the Specialized brand as well as the SJ EVO bike. But if you have the ability to ride and test both, definitely do so! It's always best to test ride ones you're looking into.
Did you test it with the mino link in the up position? Just curious about that setting?
I did not... wanted to kindof push the limits of the bike at the bike park but also riding xc with it I couldn't beleive how intuitive it cornered that I didn't want to change anything
how high were those drops you went off of? Im considering getting the new fuel ex and planning to do a few enduro races this year with it. What are your thoughts on it as far as enduro? thanks in advance and great video.
The drops in the video are anywhere from 6-10' with good transitions. I was pleasantly surprised how well it handled one particular drop that is usually pretty harsh. I think it do well at less gnarly enduro races where your rewarded with a more efficient bike. With a 160 fork and premium rear shock it could be a one bike. It's no slash though and definitely won't charge the steep chunk as fast. So it really depends on the rider and the terrain as usual.
@@Projectnortheast Greta review...how about frame stiffness?
@@orla222 I find the frame to be pretty stiff... I'm only 150lbs though so it's not usually something I have an issue with...
Did you go with the 29x2.35 or 2.6 for front and rear. Couldn’t get a good look on the video.
I did 2.35 front and rear cuz its what I had. I might like a 2.6 martello in the front though...
If anyone tried both, what would you choose?
TREK Fuel EX 7 Gen 6 or Mondraker Raze/Raze R? Thanks!
i will pick ex
How do you like the Martello as a front tire?
If you had the option to buy a fuel ex 5 gen 5 for $2000 or a fuel ex 7 gen 6 for $3000, would you make the upgrade. I have never had a real mtb before, only a 15+ year old trek fuel 70 which the frame broke on me. The trails near me are more xc focus but I still want to explore more downhill places and even some bike parks in the future and really don't want to buy more than one mtb. Any advice?
I would go for the Gen 6 every time. It's the perfect one bike imo... pedals good enough to enjoy xc all day and has a stout frame and components to rock at the bike park.
are you running the rear shock in the 'more' or 'less' setting ? and tell me about your tire sized on the Victoria's
Running in less as I'm running an air shock. And I'm just running 2.4 vittorias. The 2.6 is nice in the front but honestly not needed
@@Projectnortheast I can’t decide between the 2.6 Maxxis dhr front/ rekon rear 2.6 setup or dual 2.3 viccorias or a 2.5 Assegai with the 2.3 Vic.
What trail was that where you kept saying it’s freaking me out. I don’t recognize it.
That would be faux pine
yep faux pine, it drops you into the XC network
What width vittorias did you end up doing? The 2.4” or 2.6”?
On the fuel ex I used what I had laying around so 2.4's. I did a martello front and agarro rear. Think I may change to a martello rear and a mazza trail front though... just more fun
32, 35 psi?? too much psi will stress ya for sure and be more puncture possible with sharp rock/trail, just like a balloon pops easier with more air
It is a great fun bike...I love that one I wish I could afford one....
Yeah bikes are getting ridiculous price wise
Running a 2019 trek full stache 29er I want to upgrade something lighter and faster. I’m having a hard time deciding!!
I dont know how much lighter a fuel ex would be but... it definitely feels fast
How much was this bike? Did I miss the price?
What size bike was this? And how tall are you? Thanks.
It's a M/L and I'm 5'9"
@@Projectnortheast do you feel that is the right size for you? I have a Trek Roscoe 8 and I’m the same height as you. Mine is a medium /large, but it feels like I should have gone with a medium
@bryanmiller5692 yes feel it was the perfect size for me. I have long arms but also I ran a 32mm stem (super short) and felt it was perfect. Have you looked at running a shorter stem?
I’m 5’11 and picked up a Fuel EX 8 gen 6 in a large. Do you feel that an ok size for my rider height? Feels fine riding it and it’s super fun but by nature just looks like a big bike maybe because of it being a 29’er.
Bontrager Team Issue XR4 and XR5 are really crap tire! I change them for Michelin Wild AM2 and I saw the difference uphill and downhill!
@@brunoparadis9350 agreed bontrager tires are horrible
Im getting fuel ex 8 gen 5 in the new year
Where exactly is this mtn bike park? Looking for new places to ride.
Highland mtb park is in Northfield, NH
Can you hit 10 ft deck drops with this. Did you bottom out on some drops
handled everything surprisingly well. the last drop on ne style is about 10' but with a good transition. I don't know if I would consider doing park with this all the time but it certainly handled everything I through at it . rim protector and some better tires and it's extremely capable
Trek fuel ex🎉🎉🎉
Is that a 2.6 Agarro and Martello you swapped on?
No 2.4
@Projectnortheast MTB 👍 I bought a new 2.4 Martello Trail recently but had to return it because it was 1070 grams, way over the claimed weight. The 2.6 Agarro I got was under the claimed weight (970) at 960 grams. Put on a Tioga Edge 22 up front which is an awesome front tire paired with the Agarro out back. Great amount of grip for how fast they both roll, especially the Edge 22.
Hi, how does this compare to the yeti SB 140 T2 (non-LR) version?
Hard to compare the 140 is 27.5 and this is full 29. Completely different bikes really. The yeti will be light and poppy and fun in the air but prolly slower rolling with the smaller wheels etc.
This looks like these bikes forgiving for a 4th bike?
I'm honestly not sure what the question is...
How tall are you on that M/L?
I'm 5'9"
Love the bike design ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxHL1v1R3NE5x4KiYfyt8dnQmyNYz7qi5L and functionality. It is hard to align the front tired to center the disk brakes. The brake wheel touches the stationery side of the brake caliper and pad. I aired the tire up to 40 psi as the markings say 40-60psi. Left the house for a few hours and came back to an exploded innertube.All in all it seems to be a good bike. Have not ridden it yet though so that's the max of my knowledge. Update, put a new innertube made sure the tire was set properly and it did the same thing in under 20 minutes as second pic shows.
Not sure what your asking here... your 5'2" with a 27" inseam?
It’s a (RSL) $350 handle bar :) - looks beautiful tho.
It is perty for sure...
Another beeginer tip... If no one need it the Top Fuel, remember that the sellers will try to sell a bigger bike 🚲, 😮
How does this compare to the Switchblade?
The switchblade is a good all rounder as well but not as confident in the steeps since it's pretty old geometry wise. The trek would be alot more versatile as well
Every bike trek releases gets named as incredible (slash, top fuel, fuel ex, exe, etc). And I can tell you having briefly owned a slash gen 5 before selling it, there was nothing special about it uphill or downhill. I'm not saying they don't make decent stuff but seems bike reviews love the trek kool aid!
The fuel ex and the slash Gen 5 are both insanely good bikes. What set the Gen 5 slash apart was basically it did everything well and you could set it up and ride huge mountain tech lines or huge jumps... so it's not kool-aid. You can see my latest review on the slash Gen 6 and then see if it's just kool-aid lol
No issues with assembly for me ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxHL1v1R3NE5x4KiYfyt8dnQmyNYz7qi5L but I could see where some might benefit from using an experienced bike assembler/mechanic. I'm an older rider starting back after a 10 year break. This bike exceeds my capabilities and has been easy to get comfortable riding. I'm mostly on easy trails with almost no street riding and have not been disappointed with the performance of the bike. My fitness level is far below what I previously rode with and because of that the mileage is going on the bike slowly. While I'm losing weight slowly, the bike seems to tolerate my 220 pounds just fine. The bike has been used by several family members ranging from 5'5" - 5'9".
Definitely not...
Personally despise Trek industry. They've taken a majority of the company...overseas. And they denied/rejected/screwed Lance Armstrong. My woman, loves the Trek Fuel ex8. Tried to get her to purchase a Cube or a Vitus. Nope. She prefers the quality ride of the ex8. However, the Whyte stays inside the house. The Trek, stays in the shed.
Lol 😂 I moved away from trek for this upcoming year due to hating the new slash.
Pressures are very high for tubeless!!
Seems like a awsome mtb...but for the price i could almost go buy a top of the line hard enduro moto bike...its a real shame 😆
This is odd man. Either your tires are odd balls or there is whole another issue. 30+PSI on this bike on this tire is ridiculous. I rode the $hit out of XR4s on 20PSI and under and they were fine....very odd mate.
Lol ok... gopro and youtube have a serious way of dumbing down terrain. I was riding a properly set up bike for my 155lb frame on black and double black diamond downhill trails. I have full on DH casing tires I've bottomed out at 30psi on the same trails without an insert. Maybe your not being as aggressive as you think...
Fyi I still think the tires are junk and perform like dog turd in the wet new england rock on black diamond DH trails. They would be well suited for jump trails or regular trail riding or may even be ok with an insert but still... not much sidewall support on these. Same with the slash at 30psi my buddy and I were rolling the tires in high speed berms
@@Projectnortheast entirely possible.
M/L, how tall are you?
5'9"
Are mountain bikes like this overkill for a casual bike rider around the city and pathways? The cheaper bikes do not look as good as these bikes.
Kindof overkill yes...
@@Projectnortheast okay thanks haha. I guess I need to find a “hard tail” bike and not a full suspension one?
@zureai really depends on what you want to do with it... the fuel ex is a very capable trail bike for all kinds of mtb trails from straight up xc to dh trails depending on how you set it up. I would imagine it being pretty overkill for urban riding. Unless you see yourself wanting to dive into trails and hit that urban staircase or whatever
@@Projectnortheast Yeah well I’m just learning about the world of biking. So I probably wouldn’t be doing dirt trails with jumps and whatnot. Mostly just biking around for some exercise, or just to be outside when it’s nice. Mainly urban pathways and gravel trails. I’ve been looking at entry level bikes but none of them look as enticing as the full suspension higher end models hahaha
@@zureai you could always go to a shop and test Ride a few in the lot...
For me, design is like a rockrider bike.... Down joint for the shox is like 2000 carrefour bike...🤣🤣🤣 maybe with lots of 🤑🤑🤑 trek could buy reviews and videos
Aren't you suppose to set up sus based on weight?
Yes why do you ask?
Those Shimano brakes are amazing for sure, and the factory tires are junk.
It's an Enduro from 2-3 years ago
what do you recommend?
@@ferologics I have a Trance
Quite a heavy bike.
Bike of the year in the thumbnail? Really. …?
It won more than 1 bike of The Year awards yes. So yes.
sorry, are you the freehub guy?
I am not the freehub guy...
@@Projectnortheast ahahah okay sorry yuor voices are similar. nice video btw
Toooo much psi
Too much psi caused me to flat? Man why didn't I think of that
Bike looks small