Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX Gen 5
- Frame: Carbon
- Suspension: 140mm (front), 130mm (rear)
- Tires: 27.5/29 inches
What we like about it: Sturdy frame supports professional riding tests.
What we don’t like about it: High-spec components make maintenance more careful.
Rating: (4.8/5)
The Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX is the perfect full-suspension trail bike. When you see the actual car you know I’m definitely not exaggerating.
Whether it’s a full carbon brazed body, 140mm (front) 130mm (rear) suspension travel with both shock absorption and climbing performance, or the superior performance of the SRAM G2 RS 4-piston hydraulic disc 9.8 Amaze you. This is a real Trek Fuel.
When you ride this trail bike, the innovative front and rear triangular geometry frame and tall Bontrager Line Elite 30 tubeless tires let you take any rough terrain you want to risk or dangerous terrain you don’t dare to challenge.
Don’t be afraid of any drag, I’m sure the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX Gen 5will blow your mind. Below we break down the Fuel EX 9.8 GX’s descending and climbing capabilities, key features, components, and specs in detail along with the rest of the range.
If you want to know more about Trek fuel versions, check out our review.
Learn more:
Trek Fuel EX 9 Review
Climbing
It would be unconvincing if I just told you how perfect the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX’s superior performance is, so in this review, the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX joined us on a professional trail. From the slick ascents of rough, year-round training to the dangerous downhills of sharp rubble and fallen branches, the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX Gen 5 is officially tested.
In the beginning, based on the emphasis on the woodland, I adjusted the shape of the car to a high-geometry climbing shape, and I was completely ready for a big fight.
During the rapid acceleration, I tightened my muscles and started to go all out, and the process was not as easy as I thought. The 1×12 drivetrain gave me the most bang for my buck, while the grippy, grippy tires kept me from skidding during fast rides.
The tires are full of aramid beads. Although it is an unremarkable design, it is also a great help in increasing friction. The all-carbon brazed body includes rims and front fork components to maximize shock absorption.
The Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX weighs in at 13.1kg, which is about as heavy as a sleeping bulldog in my living room. I can lift it easily.
This is a section of trail terrain that is not so straight, and collisions with the body during sharp turns are a concern for most drivers. Although the performance of carbon brazing is balanced, it also means that it is more brittle and prone to damage.
I have to admit that the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX has achieved the ultimate in design details. There are also models without bumpers in the same price range. In my opinion, this is essential for riding.
Descending
When I reached the highest altitude, our conquest of climbing had come to an end, and the next step was the more exciting rapid descent and dive test. When I looked at the broken and sharp rubble on the forest road, my heart was nervous.
I’ve been involved in riding for years, but in the face of this uncertain and dangerous terrain, I’m still full of energy and prepared for the worst. In the control of the body during big bumps, whether the car itself can withstand the constant ups and downs of stimulation…
These are all things I have to consider. I double-checked the springs, dampers, brakes, and when I was ready, I took a deep breath and started sprinting.
During the rapid descent, it was indeed very thrilling. The countless gravel bumped my body and shook my arm muscles, but it was much lighter than I thought.
I think this is because the carbon fiber material of the body absorbs vibration and the cooperation of the front and rear triangles, through the compression and extension swing of the shock absorber, to reduce the vibration effect. Even in bumpy and rough road conditions, the tires remain firmly on the ground to maintain optimum pedaling efficiency and ground contact performance.
I still have good control over the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX.
Main Feature
Frame
When you get your hands on this car, you’ll be amazed at the unique quality of the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX itself. Glossy carbon braided body, I’m really obsessed with this material.
But it has to be said that for beginners, this material may have higher professional requirements for you. It is so light and so strong, the two seem to be contradictory, but they can be well integrated.
The cooperation of the front and rear triangles can maximize its absorption and shock absorption effect. There are also many choices in color design (Lithium Grey / Factory Orange; Matte Carbon Smoke; Satin Black Olive; Raw Carbon / Rage Red).
The variety of colors is really rare for Trek. Anyone who knows me will know that I have always complained about the single-color Trek.
It is still a noble internal wiring design, and I appreciate the internal wiring very much. It can best protect the performance of the important lines of the body, and in very harsh environments, it is still not damaged by mud.
You must know that we often encounter rainy days, and we have no choice but to sprint the entire track in the face of roads full of mud. Internal wiring does save a lot of trouble for our follow-up maintenance. I’d rather drink a full case of beer with the drivers at the end of a race than spend a lot of time tending my car.
In terms of details, I appreciate Trek Fuel EX, whether it is the storage function of the body and the design of the increased shock block. It is very necessary to carry the necessary food to supplement physical strength when riding at high speed.
Geometry
The classic 75.0-degree seat tube angle makes you more comfortable in your sitting position. Because of years of riding, I have tried many models. If you feel uncomfortable in the position, it will cause a lot of damage to the muscles, and you will feel uncomfortable after a riding competition.
With a 66.0-degree head tube angle, there is nothing to fault in terms of riding experience. Of course, if your upper body is too long, then you have to check the size chart and choose carefully to avoid exchange. (for reference I’m 5’8″, choose size M)
The Fox Performance 36 front and rear travel combination (140mm (front) and 130mm (rear)) made it easy for me to climb and descend, which greatly reduced the impact force on the body. You can master more in body control, and adjust your state at any time according to the terrain.
In terms of braking power, as I mentioned earlier, the SRAM GX Eagle’s 1×12 dynamic braking system can provide me with great assistance during the ride. My riding experience with the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX can give a standard A rating.
Components and Specifications
SRAM GX Eagle 1×12 Drivetrain
As I have always emphasized, I am obsessed with trail riding, not only because of the unknown risks, but also because of the thrill of approaching the limit in speed challenges.
Whether it’s breaking resistance uphill, it can also give you a lot of confidence on rougher roads, thanks to the SRAM GX Eagle 1×12 drivetrain.
I still remember my race in Southern California, and even though the riders I was with were very capable, the SRAM GX Eagle 1×12’s range of 22-speed options gave me a lot of confidence.
Float EVOL Air Spring
For the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX, weight has always been its strength. In the design of reducing the weight of the body, the load EVOL air spring has achieved a high level in its ability to absorb vibration and reduce the body being squeezed.
I think the designers at Trek must have put a lot of thought into it. At this point, I feel compelled to point it out to my readers.
SRAM G2 RS 4 Brake Hydraulic Disc
The SRAM G2 RS 4 brake hydraulic disc itself is a statement of technology, a new trend over traditional mechanical discs. If you know bicycle accessories, you should know that we have gone through a big leap from mechanical discs to hydraulic discs.
This kind of leap can be explained from two aspects. First, the hydraulic disc is more sensitive to emergencies, and second, the load also greatly reduces the burden on the body, so that you can make a big leap in high-speed driving. best level.
But there is one regret that I still need to share for the sake of honesty. The maintenance cost of the hydraulic disc is higher than that of the mechanical disc, and the maintenance is more careful than the mechanical disc, so it is also expensive.
Other Versions of Trek Fuel EX
Trek Fuel EX 9.9 X01 AXS
Compared to the Trek Fuel EX 9.9 X01 AXS, we were surprised to find the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX’s price/performance ratio was outstanding. Although the Trek Fuel EX 9.9 X01 AXS and 9.8 GX share the same full carbon fiber material, they also have the same liquid discs on the brakes and even the fork selection.
But the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX is about $4,000 more expensive. Although it is lighter in body weight (Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX weighs 12,8kg), that doesn’t quite convince me.
In terms of suspension travel, the Trek Fuel EX 9.9 X01 AXS has not been upgraded, and it is still the front (140mm) and rear (130mm) travel design, which means it is faster and more stable when climbing and descending.
So in general, on the more important performance components, the Trek Fuel EX 9.9 X01 AXS has not achieved a complete leap.
Trek Fuel EX 8
When compared with the Trek Fuel EX 8, it was found that the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX achieved a relatively large improvement, although the price also increased accordingly. However, by comparing the data, we found that the following important components have been upgraded.
First up is the fork, from the Trek Fuel EX 8’s Fox Rhythm Float 34 to the Fox Performance Float 36, which means a breakthrough in both shock and weight. Second, the Fuel EX 9.8 GX is lighter, which makes it easier on some uphills and jumps.
Compared to the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX’s higher version of the SRAM G2 RS hydraulic disc, the Trek Fuel EX 8 features a Shimano 4 hydraulic disc, which is far less sensitive and lighter than the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX. So if you’re looking for a more durable and performant full-suspension bike, I’d go for the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX.
In terms of riding and performance, each upgrade means a completely different riding experience and stable handling performance, and it can also save a lot of trouble in subsequent upgrades.
Learn More: Rider’s Favorite – Trek Fuel EX 8 Full-Shock Mountain Bike Review
What do we like about it?
- Full carbon fiber body material to meet the needs of lighter and stronger riding.
- The innovative geometric frame can maximize the force of absorbing shock.
- 1×12 drivetrain accelerates more efficiently and offers a wide range of speed options.
- Brake hydraulic disc for more braking agility, while minimizing vehicle weight.
- The built-in wiring is simple and efficient, saving time and cost of maintenance.
- More color choices to meet the needs of different groups of people.
- Different suspension travel front and rear is very stable and friendly for climbing and descending terrain.
- Tubeless tires can help riders ride more stable and confidently.
- The air spring can accommodate the impulse from the body extrusion to the greatest extent.
What do we not like about it?
- Not very wallet-friendly.
- Tall components that require careful maintenance to avoid major damage.
FAQs
- What is the body weight of the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX?
The M model of the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX is 13.1 kg.
- What is the front and rear suspension travel of the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX?
The Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX has 140mm of front and 130mm of rear suspension travel, respectively.
- What is the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX drivetrain?
The Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX drivetrain is a SRAM GX Eagle 1×12 drivetrain.
Specs
Frameset
| Frame | OCLV Mountain Carbon main frame & stays, internal storage, tapered head tube, Knock Block, Control Freak internal routing, Carbon Armor, ISCG 05, magnesium rocker link, Mino Link, ABP, Boost148, 130mm travel |
|---|---|
| Fork | Fox Performance 36, Float EVOL air spring, GRIP damper, tapered steerer, 44mm offset, Boost110, 15mm Kabolt axle, 140mm travel |
| *Shock | Size: XS , S Fox Performance Float EVOL, RE:aktiv with Thru Shaft 3-position damper, tuned by Trek Suspension Lab, 210mm x 52.5mm Size: S , M , ML , L , XL Fox Performance Float EVOL, RE:aktiv with Thru Shaft 3-position damper, tuned by Trek Suspension Lab, 210mm x 55mm |
| Max compatible fork travel | 150mm (561mm axle-to-crown) |
Wheels
| Wheel front | Bontrager Line Elite 30, OCLV Mountain Carbon, Tubeless Ready, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15mm thru axle |
|---|---|
| Wheel rear | Bontrager Line Elite 30, OCLV Mountain Carbon, Tubeless Ready, Rapid Drive 108, 6-bolt, SRAM XD driver, Boost148, 12mm thru axle |
| Hub front | Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, alloy axle, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15mm thru axle |
| Hub rear | Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, 6-bolt, 108T Rapid Drive, SRAM XD driver, Boost148, 12mm thru axle |
| Skewer rear | Bontrager Switch thru axle, removable lever |
| Rim | Bontrager Line Elite 30, Tubeless Ready, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15mm thru axle |
| *Tire | Size: XS , S , M , ML , L , XL Bontrager XR4 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120tpi, 29.x2.40” Size: XS , S Bontrager XR4 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 27.5×2.60” Size: XS , S Bontrager XR5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength casing, aramid bead, 60 tpi, 27.5×2.50” Size: S , M , ML , L , XL Bontrager XR4 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29×2.60” Size: S , M , ML , L , XL Bontrager XR5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29×2.50” |
| Tire part | Bontrager TLR sealant, 6oz |
| Rim strip | Bontrager TLR |
| Max tire size | Frame: 29×2.60″ Fork: See manufacturer |
Drivetrain
| Shifter | SRAM GX Eagle, 12 speed |
|---|---|
| Rear derailleur | SRAM GX Eagle |
| *Crank | Size: XS , S , M , ML , L SRAM GX Eagle, DUB, 30T alloy ring, Boost (52mm chainline), 170mm length Size: S , M , ML , L , XL SRAM GX Eagle, DUB, 30T alloy ring, Boost (52mm chainline), 175mm length |
| Bottom bracket | SRAM DUB, 92mm, PressFit |
| Cassette | SRAM Eagle XG-1275, 10-52, 12 speed |
| Chain | SRAM GX Eagle, 12 speed |
| Max chainring size | 34T |
Components
| Saddle | Bontrager Arvada, austenite rails, 138mm width |
|---|---|
| *Seatpost | Size: XS , S Bontrager Line Elite, 100mm travel, MaxFlow, internal routing, 31.6mm, 340mm length Size: XS , S Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 100mm travel, internal routing, 31.6mm, 340mm length Size: M , ML Bontrager Line Elite, 150mm travel, MaxFlow, internal routing, 31.6mm, 440mm length Size: M , ML Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 150mm travel, internal routing, 31.6mm, 440mm length Size: L , XL Bontrager Line Elite, 170mm travel, MaxFlow, internal routing, 31.6mm, 480mm length Size: L , XL Bontrager Line Elite Dropper, 170mm travel, internal routing, 31.6mm, 480mm length |
| *Handlebar | Size: XS , S , M , ML , L , XL Bontrager Line Pro, OCLV Carbon, 35mm, 27.5mm rise, 780mm width Size: XS , S Bontrager Line Pro, OCLV Carbon, 35mm, 15mm rise, 750mm width |
| *Grips | Size: XS , S , M , ML , L , XL Bontrager XR Trail Elite, nylon lock-on Size: XS , S , M , ML , L , XL Bontrager XR Trail Elite, alloy lock-on |
| *Stem | Size: XS , S Bontrager Line Pro, 35mm, Knock Block, Blendr compatible, 0 degree, 35mm length Size: M , ML , L , XL Bontrager Line Pro, 35mm, Knock Block, Blendr compatible, 0 degree, 45mm length |
| Headset | Knock Block Integrated, 58-degree radius, cartridge bearing, 1-1/8” top, 1.5” bottom |
| Brake | SRAM G2 RS 4-piston hydraulic disc |
| *Brake rotor | Size: XS , S , M , ML , L , XL SRAM CenterLine, 6-bolt, round edge, 180mm Size: M , ML , L , XL SRAM CenterLine, 6-bolt, round edge, 200mm |
Accessories
| Bag | Bontrager BITS Internal Frame Storage Bag |
|---|
Weight
| Weight | M – 13.10 kg / 28.89 lbs (with TLR sealant, no tubes) |
|---|---|
| Weight limit | This bike has a maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider, and cargo) of 300 pounds (136 kg). |
Video
Comparison Table
| BIKE | PRICE | GEAR | BRAKE | TIRE | CLICK VIEW |
| Ibis Ripley GX | $5899 | 1×12 | Shimano SLX M7100 | 29” x 2.5” | Click View |
| BMC Fourstroke 01, LT | TWO | $6999 | 1×11 | SRAM Level TL | 29″×2.4″ | Click View |
| Revel Rascal GX Eagle | $5899 | 1×12 | SRAM G2 R | 29″×2.3″ | Click View |
| Giant Trance X Advanced E+ 2 | $7000 | 1×12 | Shimano 4- piston | 29″×2.6″ | Click View |
Ibis Ripley GX vs Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX
In terms of body weight, the Ibis Ripley GX reaches 2.3 kg, which is a big drag for the body to climb. Secondly, we all know that we will encounter some big jumps because of the high speed when riding on the trail, so it is necessary to ride a lighter bike.
In terms of fork performance, the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX Fox Performance Float 36 fork is more professional, and is superior to the Ibis Ripley GX’s Fox Factory Float 34 in terms of shock absorption and stiffness.
So, if you’re looking for superior performance and don’t want the necessary expense of some fork upgrades, I think the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX is a better choice.
BMC Fourstroke 01 vs Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX
When it comes to choosing a professional trail, I believe the BMC Fourstroke 01 is definitely in your choice. First of all, in a strict sense, the frame weight of the BMC Fourstroke 01, LT | TWO is greater than that of the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX.
Thanks to Trek’s traditional hand-crafted carbon fiber bodywork process, Trek has achieved the maximum weight in terms of body weight. Secondly, in terms of price, Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX is more economical and has made concessions in price.
The Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX has also been upgraded with a more professional Fox Performance Float 36 fork in my preferred fork choice. Anyone who knows me will know that I like the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX’s Bontrager tires very well.
Compared to the DT SWISS tires used on the BMC Fourstroke 01, the Bontrager rims are thicker and the wheels are thicker. Smoother, stronger, and less likely to blow out, so we felt the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX was smoother when we rode it.
learn more: BMC Fourstroke 01 LT TWO Review – The Ultimate Enjoyment For Your Mountain Riding
Revel Rascal – GX Eagle vs Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX
As a consumer, when you see the price of the Revel Rascal – GX Eagle, you will definitely be a little excited because it is more affordable. Comparing the details of the two, in the material of the rim, in order to reduce the cost, the Revel Rascal – GX Eagle uses the Industry Nine Enduro S 1/1 29″ alloy Wheelset, although it is marked (*upgrade available).
Compared to the carbon fiber material of the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX, the carbon fiber material absorbs more force when it is subjected to larger impacts, which means that the rider is more able to control the fast bike. Design-wise, if you’ve got the actual two bikes and felt them, you should be able to understand why I prefer the design of the Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX because of the placement and angle of the shocks.
I think Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX The EX 9.8 GX can more efficiently cooperate with the body to expand and contract, so as to maximize the absorption of vibrations and reduce the bumps of the body. On the professional track, it is more friendly to ride on the ground and roll quickly.
Learn more:Best Mountain Bikes Under $2000
Giant Trance X Advanced E+ 2 vs Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX
The Giant Trance X Advanced E+ 2 is all about high performance, and certainly at a high price. Comparing the various data of Trek Fuel EX 9.8 GX, Giant has made some upgrades.
It can be seen that the travel of the suspension is 140mm in the front and 140mm in the rear. The Giant Trance X Advanced E+ 2 has some electric upgrades, such as a Yamaha 250W 85Nm mid-drive motor.
However, for some traditional riders, this is an optional feature. Of course, this kind of innovation and upgrading is also a major trend. Like I said, if you want a traditional ride and you’re not that comfortable with hybrids, I think you can wait until electric hybrids are more mature and try out this expensive model.
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Learn more: Is Giant Trance X Advanced Pro 29 3 Worth Buying? [Giant Trance X Advanced Pro 29 3 review]
