Trek Procaliber 9.7
- Price: $4,329.99
- Frame: OCLV Mountain Carbon Fiber
- Gear: 1×12 speed
- Tires: 29×2.40″ (max)
What we like about it: The lightweight and strong carbon fiber frame make the body more rigid, while the smooth IsoSpeed splitter gives you the ultimate speed experience in every xc race.
What we don’t like about it: Some people think that the lack of a dropper post will lead to insufficient shock absorption, but we think the IsoSpeed splitter can completely replace the function of the dropper tube to relieve the pressure of the shock.
Rating: (4.8/5)
Learn more: Trek Remedy 7 Review-How Did The Trek Remedy 7 Be So Amazing?
“With 9 victories, golds, and medals, Supercaliber tops the list of the most successful World Cup XC gear!”-pinkbike.com
If you ask me which is the funniest and most thought-provoking off-road bike of recent years, I’ll have no hesitation in telling you my best: the Trek Supercaliber. It is no exaggeration that Supercaliber won the applause of the world as soon as it came out.
You can’t define it as an efficient hardtail bike with a full-shock component pairing. Such a clever combination of two very different functions truly achieves hardtail efficiency and full shock control at speed, keeping the ride in control.
The exclusive IsoStrut integrated shock is the cornerstone of Supercaliber’s efficient suspension system, providing adjustable shock suspension for a smooth, efficient ride. You can’t define it as full suspension weight, because it’s so light and gives you a wind-breaking high-energy experience on bumpy roads.
Descending
Part Ⅰ
As we all know, the steeper and more rugged downhill path is a great challenge for both the rider and the mountain bike. And what hardtail mountain bikes aim for is to behave like a full-suspension mountain bike when descending. Of course, due to the lack of rear suspension components, we can’t be too hard on the rider with the amount of shock it can bring down extremely steep hills.
Of course, we have to admit that the Trek Procaliber 9.7 is an efficient downhill sprinter. We liked the longer downhills in off-road terrain, because the rhythmic vibrations of the gravel and tangled roots always made me shiver. Some might argue that the 100mm travel fork is too short, but we can’t test it on infinite descents on technical terrain, and it doesn’t fit its practical purpose.
While the IsoSpeed was able to absorb the effects of small shocks, the lack of a dropper post forced me to get out of a seated riding position when the road got tricky.
Part Ⅱ
The air suspension front fork is very sensitive to small vibrations. Always excel on singletrack at the front of the stroke.
Plus, we liked its fast-rolling 29×2.20″ tires. When racing, the moment of overtaking an opponent is often a combination of downhill guts and vehicle performance. The 2.2-inch tubeless tires can greatly increase the speed when descending.
On the one hand, in the pursuit of high-cost performance, on other hand, one has to accept the Trek Procaliber 9.7 Shimano RT56 hydraulic disc brakes. Of course, it maintained good braking power throughout our testing.
Taken together, the Trek Procaliber 9.7 is a worthy descender for our high-speed off-road or casual off-road riding.
The RockShox Reba RL fork is lighter and has a suspension structure that balances traction and comfort, providing the pedaling efficiency you need, allowing you to go down faster with greater body lift stability.
Not only that, the introduction of IsoSpeed can better eliminate the fatigue caused by bumps on the road, thereby improving the efficiency of pedaling.
Climbing
Part Ⅰ
As an off-road vehicle, the most important factor to measure its performance is its climbing ability in woodland off-road. In this regard, we have great confidence in the climbing ability of the Trek Procaliber 9.7.
Every time I pass the rugged mountain road leading to the park from my doorstep, it will give me a great comfortable riding experience. On the bumpy road, subtle vibrations will be quickly transmitted to the body, and then the real-time road conditions will make an instant response. And Trek Procaliber 9.7 seems to have the wisdom of life, while ensuring stability, the information passed to me has always been fast and accurate.
Maybe it may not be able to perform all its functions when faced with an inclination angle of more than 45°, but it is undoubtedly the best choice for some people who deal with mountain roads all year round.
Of course, this isn’t just a guess, but what the Bontrager Kovee Elite 23 carbon, tubeless, and SRAM XD11 drivers told us.
Part Ⅱ
The 29-inch Bontrager Kovee Elite 23 carbon rims are made for xc racing, but also for those long-distance off-roaders. After months of testing, we were surprised to find that the Procaliber 9.7 is rock solid and can still fly in the direction you apply force. The sound of the tire colliding with the ground brought a little noise to the entire quiet forest.
Not only that, but we also equipped Bontrager XR2 Team Issue tubeless tires, with larger rims for greater wear resistance and longer tire life.
Especially on some very rough uphill routes, the 73.8 head tube angle doesn’t go too far. The distance between the arm and the handlebar is in line with the human physiological structure, whether it is a smooth and level road or a muddy, downhill full of gravel and branches, it will not feel too stiff or unbearable because of the rough or long road.
Of course, it’s the super-wide SRAM GX Eagle 1X12 drivetrain that we’re proud of. It’s compatible with larger tooth count requirements, and if you’re an off-road veteran, it can save your legs on the steepest climbs and save more energy on long rides.
If you often pay attention to xc off-road competitions, Procaliber 9.7 will appear on the home page of your store without any surprises.
Main Feature
Frame
Part Ⅰ
I have to say that the Trek Procaliber 9.7 has an eye-catching blue paint color scheme, the deep navy smoke, and the cool alpine blue make me fall in love with it. Of course, if the designer can try more other colors, I believe I will also be willing to pay for it.
In addition, the combination of derailleur, brakes, and locks will make your appearance impressive. Moreover, reducing the rear shock absorber further simplifies the body structure, thus making it more aesthetically pleasing for simplicity lovers.
At the same time, we can see that it also carefully installs a water bottle installation device at the down tube, and the designer has passed precise calculations to leave a capacity that can hold two cups of water bottles. The larger storage capacity solves the problem of water shortage caused by the fatigue of boats and cars.
PartⅡ
In addition, the high-quality and sturdy carbon fiber frame, carbon fiber wheels, and carbon fiber seatpost greatly reduce the weight of the car itself, as well as the weight of the tire rolling, so you can use less force in the same distance to reach higher efficiency.
Finally, if you are careful, you should find that it has a rubber film arranged on the lower surface of the lower frame of the body and the lower fork. impact, thus protecting the Trek Procaliber 9.7.
Geometry
The Trek Procaliber 9.7 has a head angle of 68.8, which gives it more agile handling without overreacting. It has better steering ability when encountering curved roads. The slack angle allows you to actively lower the center of gravity angle when you are climbing, making the ride more stable.
Also, generally speaking, the anatomical seat tube angle is 72-73 degrees, and our setup was 72.8, using a square design to connect to the chainstays to increase torsional rigidity and reduce weight. Riders will have a better riding experience.
At the same time, the lower bottom bracket height (31.3) gives it a level of stability and safety not found in other models. We think the Trek Procaliber 9.7 really masters geometry and is an ideal combination for those with a lot of xc experience.
Components and Specifications
SRAM GX Eagle, 12-speed
SRAM GX Eagle, 12-speed is one of the standout components of this bike. Like the XX1 Eagle and X01 Eagle, the GX Eagle also has a 500% range of gear ratios and even the exact same combination of teeth on the cassette. This is an essential feature when riding off-road.
Stamped aluminum discs, steel rivets, steel springs, and cast aluminum bodies give it ultra-smooth, precise, durable, and quiet performance. From a few months of riding experience, I have few complaints.
SRAM GX Eagle, 12-speed has unparalleled shifting fluidity so you can choose the right gear for different road conditions. At the same time, because of the aluminum product, you don’t have to worry about the problem of the chain caused by frequent shifting, and its strength will be far beyond your imagination.
Its rear derailleur adopts advanced speed regulation technology, which makes your speed regulation process more smooth and silky.
Shimano RT56 Brakes
The Trek Procaliber 9.7 features Shimano RT56 front and rear, 6-bolt, disc brakes for consistent stopping power in all riding conditions. The new fastening plate construction allows for quick and safe installation.
After a period of sprint testing, we found that the Shimano RT56, 6-bolt, can brake more safely and efficiently on steep and rough hills. The process was thrilling, but every time I experimented, the Shimano RT56, 6-bolt dual-piston brake brought me to the ground smoothly and safely, which was amazing.
RockShox Reba RL Fork
The Trek Procaliber 9.7 is equipped with a RockShox Reba RL front fork, in which the solo air spring has a more powerful shock absorption function, and with the unique isospeed dual protection of the Trek Procaliber 9.7, it can adapt to various complex terrains.
Even in the face of the muddy and slippery ground, it can protect the rider’s safe travel according to the rider’s manual braking.
Not only that, but the remote locking of Trek Procaliber 9.7 is also a major selling point of its popular product. By locking the movement of the front fork, although part of the shock absorption function is lost, it is beneficial to rationally utilize the kinetic energy generated during riding without wasting it, which greatly improves the riding efficiency. This has also been well received by buyers of this bike.
Tires And Wheels
Bontrager Kovee Elite 23 carbon fiber makes up the front and rear tires of the Trek Procaliber 9.7, and the use of tubeless tires greatly extends its life.
Mountain riding is not destined to be smooth and bumpy, and bumps are inevitable, but tubeless tires solve such problems very well. Even if it is punctured by branches or small stones, there is no inner tire, so the bicycle can still ride forward.
At the same time, the Inner Strength sidewall provides strong and targeted protection to the tire, reducing the occurrence of special conditions on the road. In addition, 120 tpi, 292.20′ tire size, provides strong grip, less effort, and faster riding.
Trek Procaliber Previous Version 9.7
The upgraded version of Trek Procaliber 9.7, Trek Procaliber 9.6, and Trek Procaliber 9.5 before it. Because it is an upgraded version of the previous two generations, the tires, power transmission system, and car materials have been upgraded. So Trek Procaliber 9.7 will be a lot higher than the previous two generations.
It is also understandable that if you are performance and architecture-sensitive, then Trek Procaliber 9 is the best choice for you.
Learn More: Trek Procaliber 9.6 Review – Moderate Geometry Design
What do we like about it?
- The basic structure of carbon fiber makes the body lighter and has a longer service life.
- Vibration-induced injury to the human body can be more effectively reduced thanks to ISOspeed’s innovative shock absorption system.
- Ingenious Straight Shot downtube for ultra-stiff, responsive handling.
- The ultra-strong SRAM GX Eagle drivetrain keeps you going.
What do we not like about it?
- Adding a dropper on the basis of ISOspeed may be more prominent for the stability of the body.
- The excessively low bottom bracket height may cause trouble to the body on winding roads in the mountains.
Specs
Frameset
| Frame | OCLV Mountain Carbon, IsoSpeed, tapered head tube, Knock Block, internal control routing, balanced post mount brake, Boost148 |
|---|---|
| Fork | RockShox Reba RL, Solo Air spring, Motion Control damper, remote lockout, tapered steerer, 42mm offset, Boost110, 15mm Maxle Stealth, 100mm travel |
| Suspension lever | RockShox OneLoc Sprint |
| Max compatible fork travel | 120mm (533 axle-to-crown) |
Wheels
| Wheel front | Bontrager Kovee Elite 23 carbon, Tubeless Ready, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15mm thru axle |
|---|---|
| Wheel rear | Bontrager Kovee Elite 23 carbon, Tubeless Ready, Rapid Drive 108, SRAM XD11 driver, Boost148 |
| 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 Kovee Elite 23 carbon, Tubeless Ready, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15mm thru axle |
| Tire | Bontrager XR2 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewall, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29×2.20” |
| Tire part | Bontrager TLR sealant, 6oz |
| Rim strip | Bontrager TLR |
| Max tire size | Frame: 29×2.40″ Fork: See manufacturer |
Drivetrain
| Shifter | SRAM GX Eagle, 12 speed |
|---|---|
| Rear Derailleur | SRAM GX Eagle |
| *Crank | Size: S SRAM X1 Eagle, DUB, 32T alloy ring, 52mm chainline, 170mm length Size: M , ML , L , XL SRAM X1 Eagle, DUB, 32T alloy ring, 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 | 36T, Min 30T |
Components
| Saddle | Bontrager P3 Verse Elite, stainless steel rails, 145mm width |
|---|---|
| *Seatpost | Size: S Bontrager Pro, OCLV Carbon, 31.6mm, 0mm offset, 330mm length Size: M , ML , L , XL Bontrager Pro, OCLV Carbon, 31.6mm, 0mm offset, 400mm length |
| *Handlebar | Size: S , M , ML Bontrager Kovee Elite, alloy, 35mm, 5mm rise, 720mm width Size: L , XL Bontrager Line, alloy, 35mm, 15mm rise, 750mm width |
| Grips | ESI Chunky |
| *Stem | Size: S Bontrager Elite, 35mm clamp, 13 degree, 60mm length Size: M , ML Bontrager Elite, 35mm clamp, 13 degree, 70mm length Size: L , XL Bontrager Elite, 35mm clamp, 13 degree, 80mm length |
| Headset | Knock Block Integrated, 62-degree radius, cartridge bearing, 1-1/8” top, 1.5” bottom |
| Brake | Shimano hydraulic disc, MT501 lever, MT500 caliper |
| *Brake rotor | Size: S , M , ML , L , XL Shimano RT56, 6-bolt, 180mm Size: S , M , ML , L , XL Shimano RT56, 6-bolt, 160mm |
Weight
| Weight | M – 10.44 kg / 23.02 lbs |
|---|---|
| Weight limit | This bike has a maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider, and cargo) of 300 pounds (136 kg). |
Video
Comparison Chart
| BIKE | PRICE | GEAR | TIRE | BRAKE | CLICK VIEW |
| Scott Scale RC Team Issue AXS | $4,999.00 | 1×12 | 29×2.25″ | Shimano XT M8100 Disc Brakes | Click View |
| Yeti ARC C2 | $4,400 | 1×12 | 29×2.6″ | SRAM Grade TL Hydraulic Disc | Click View |
| Giant XTC Advanced SL 29 1 | $5,000 | 1×12 | 29×2.25“ | Shimano Deore XT | Click View |
| Santa Cruz NOMAD R / Carbon C / MX | $5,649 | 1×12 | 27.5″x2.4 | SRAM G2 RE hydraulic disc | Click View |
Scott Scale RC Team Issue AXS vs Trek Procaliber 9.7
Under the same carbon fiber material, the Trek Procaliber 9.7 is relatively heavier (about 400 grams). If you don’t care about weight, maybe you can ignore it. But the selection of Scott Scale RC Team Issue AXS is SID SL Select, which is more suitable for the road of competition. If you’re not into cycling, perhaps the Trek Procaliber 9.7 will meet your everyday needs.
Learn more ：Is the Scott Scale 940 A Great Value Hardtail Bike? [Scott Scale 940 Review]
Yeti ARC C2 vs Trek Procaliber 9.7
The Yeti ARC C2 has a heavier weight (11.8kg), but the Yeti ARC C2 has a longer travel. Therefore, it has more shock resistance on rough roads. If you have a need for this, you may consider paying attention to Yeti ARC C2.
At the same time, different from the Yeti ARC C2, Trek Procaliber 9.7 chose the most popular Shimano hydraulic disc, MT501 on the market. Therefore, there is a better braking effect, I believe this can also be a factor for you to consider.
Giant XTC Advanced SL 29 1 vs Trek Procaliber 9.7
Compared to the Trek Procaliber 9.7 carbon frame, the Giant XTC Advanced SL 29 1 opts for an advanced SL-grade compound. The advanced carbon fiber design of the Giant XTC Advanced SL 29 1 minimizes weight and maximizes strength where needed. It’s a pure mountain bike, and if you’re into road racing, it’s sure to satisfy your needs. Likewise, the price will also be higher.
Learn more ：Is Giant XTC Advanced 29 3 Worth Buying? [Giant XTC Advanced 29 3 Review]
Trek Procaliber 9.7 vs Santa Cruz NOMAD R / Carbon C / MX
As a full-suspension enduro bike, it has unparalleled long-distance travel capabilities. I believe that if you pay attention to the bicycle rally, you will definitely pay attention to it.
The superior performance makes it stand out in the same type of performance. On rough and steep rally trails, you can applaud for both stability and braking. If the price doesn’t make you think about buying a bike, then you can really give this bike a try.
Learn more: Santa Cruz NOMAD X01 Review – The Limits Of Man And Bike
