TREK FX SPORT 5
- Price: $2,099.99
- Frame: Carbon Fiber
- Gear: 1 x 11
- Tires: 700c x 40c
What we like about it: The carbon-braced frame texture combined with the flat handlebar construction makes for a comfortable ride. The 1x drivetrain has a wide range of power settings for a fast ride on long road trips.
What we don’t like about it: The pedals with straps are a little out of date.
Rating: (4.6/5)
The latest addition to the Trek FX line, the Trek FX Sport 5 is a hybrid bike built specifically for fitness riders. High specs, light weight, and low maintenance allow riders ready for longer rides to go farther.
Like a traditional hybrid bike, it’s not going to make commuters like it if the $2,099 price tag ends there.
If you’re looking for an exercise bike worth investing in, then the Trek FX Sport 5 is a great value.
To that end, our detailed review includes gravel and commuter riding, key features, components and specs, as well as other versions in the range. To see how it stacks up, see our article on the best mountain bikes.
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Gravel Road Test
Part Ⅰ
As we all know, the gravel road is a necessary level that every fitness person is eager to challenge. By controlling the collision between the body and the gravel, a balance exercise can be achieved. However, roads full of gravel are bound to be extremely demanding on the body.
We spent two months testing the Trek FX sport 5 on gravel and the results were generally satisfactory. There is a 3km gravel double-track trail on my way to the park and I’ve spent over 600km on it so far. It is no exaggeration to say that I still remember the damage that those thorny roads brought me. To my satisfaction, the Trek FX sport 5 lived up to my expectations.
The 42c tires are really ready for this kind of gravel-laden road. The larger tires make it extremely stable and safe when going downhill. Gravel bumps can have a destabilizing effect on the ride, but the lightweight, full-carbon forks of the fork range greatly reduce the impact of gravel and bodywork.
The isozone handlebars are also able to reduce road bumps and hum, allowing me to pass this gravel road smoothly.
At the same time, I can feel that when it rains, trouble may come. The overly wide tires didn’t have enough room for the fenders, leaving me covered in wet mud. I recently considered changing to 40mm tires.
Of course, as a fitness bike, it brings me far more surprises than this.
Part Ⅱ
I do some enduro races from time to time to increase my aerobic intensity. To increase the difficulty of the ride, I also sometimes start my training with a sandbag of about 5kg on my back. On the way, there will also be some sections where bicycles cannot pass, and then you have to pick up the bicycle. Obviously, the lighter weight of the carbon fiber Trek FX sport 5 allowed me to get through these obstacles quickly.
Not only that, but unlike other bikes, the trek FX sport 5 is also equipped with compatible DuoTraps (requires purchase). It is very helpful for me to track my fitness progress regularly through the route record on my phone or calculator.
Commuter Ride
Part Ⅰ
I have to admit, I’m the type of rider who likes to ride long distances. In normal times, I would also ride my bicycle on the road with many people coming and going. Of course, I will occasionally head towards the mountains and forests, crossing various rugged terrains.
On the trail leading to the park in Yellowstone, there will be a large section of smooth road, which is a comfortable way to relax on the weekend leisure time. I think if you go for the Trek FX sport 5 for smooth surfaces like this, you might be honestly overkill. I also take that into consideration when thinking about the bike. Surprisingly, the Trek FX sport 5 didn’t slack off, even on a smooth, technically difficult road.
Adjust the seat tube length to the right, and with the soft seat cushion, you can sit on it for a long time without discomfort. I used the Trek FX sport 5 once and rode 300km in three days. I didn’t feel any discomfort while resting.
Part Ⅱ
When I travel, I encounter all kinds of terrain, and one of the most headaches for me is the muddy road, and I always fall accidentally. Luckily the Trek FX sport 5 didn’t have this problem, I think it might be the hydraulic disc brakes that gave me enough stability on muddy roads. It keeps me calm enough even in an emergency.
At the same time, during the ride, I had to unavoidably have a construction section of the road, and the potholes made me have to change gears and drive at a slow speed. Unlike other road bikes that twist and shift, the Trek FX sport 5 uses a single, simple shifter that allows you to quickly change gears with the flick of your left index finger. At the same time, the Bontrager Satellite Plus IsoZone, the alloy handlebar with rubber leather cover can greatly reduce the impact of bumpy roads, and various details make me feel the humanization of the Trek FX sport 5 design.
Main Feature
Frame
At the same time, during the ride, I had to unavoidably have a construction section of the road, and the potholes made me have to change gears and drive at a slow speed.
Unlike other road bikes that twist and shift, the Trek FX sport 5 uses a single, simple shifter that allows you to quickly change gears with the flick of your left index finger.
At the same time, the Bontrager Satellite Plus IsoZone, the alloy handlebar with rubber leather cover can greatly reduce the impact of bumpy roads, and various details make me feel the humanization of the Trek FX sport 5 design.
Geometry (head tube, seat tube)
The geometry of the Trek FX sport 5 pretty much defines its performance and ride feel. And Trek Fx sport5 seems to be happy to bring this concept to the masses.
The 70.5 head angle is quite acceptable, not the most extreme product in the FX sport line. The looser head tube angle is more in line with the market’s choice, and it can be steered without a large steering operation. So that’s why the Trek FX sport 5 can ride on rougher terrain.
At the same time, the seat tube angle of 74.5 is relatively steep, and the seat tube angle also determines the balanced distribution of the rider’s weight between the front and rear wheels, that is, the center of gravity. So you can also be in a comfortable position when climbing.
Components and Specifications
Shimano GRX/SLX Drivetrain
The drivetrain from model to model has an impact on your ride for all to see. The 1xShimano GRX/SLX on the Trek FX sport 5 uses a lightweight and fast carbon fiber structure, which allows us to get a faster riding experience with longer mileage.
Not only that, but unlike the rotary shifting on other bikes, the Trek FX sport 5 is equipped with a simpler and more simple shifter function to select the appropriate gear according to the needs of different terrains. All you need to do is flick your index finger, and shifting is lighter and more intuitive. In the actual experience, I felt a very big surprise.
Finally, I believe you should be very familiar with the KMC brand. Many high-end bicycles are equipped with KMC brand chains. Among them, KMC*10 is highly praised for its stable performance, high quality, and high-cost performance. The Trek FX sport 5 uses this as its own chain so you won’t get stuck in the chain while riding.
OCLV Carbon Fiber Fork
In my opinion, the oclv carbon fork is the best fork material on the market. In addition to reducing weight, the most commendable point of carbon fiber is its own extreme plasticity.
Different shapes will show different strengths, and the Trek FX sport 5 inevitably has to deal with various road types. On those rough roads, the carbon fiber front fork can absorb more kinetic energy for us, so as to eliminate the fatigue caused by travel. Not only the Trek FX sport 5, but the choice of future bikes, I will also consider whether it is carbon fiber or not.
Also on a gravel-filled uphill, when I faced obstacles with larger rocks, I had to lift the front body to get me through. Compared to aluminum bike forks, the oclv carbon fiber fork significantly reduces the effort I have to spend, which is a clear feeling. At the same time, the carbon fiber front fork has better compressibility when encountering the same bumpy journey, which can effectively alleviate the impact of the body and ground vibrations on me.
Brakes – Shimano Hydraulic Discs
I have to admit that Shimano hydraulic discs are the most numerous of all the bikes I have ridden, and it seems that this is already a trend in the bicycle industry.
The one thing I’m most sure of is that hydraulic disc brakes are more responsive than mechanical brakes. When I’m in an emergency while riding, I can go from fast-moving to a standstill in no time, and that happens in a matter of seconds. But mechanical braking will take longer, knowing that a few seconds is very important for safe braking.
Secondly, the hydraulic disc has a lighter volume. Increase the performance and sensitivity of the car without increasing the weight of the body. I also hope that the car I control can fully understand my commands, and can stop quickly and effortlessly when I want it to stop. Clearly the Shimano hydraulic disc was more than what I expected.
Bontrager GR1 Expert Tires
As an exercise bike, the quality of tires is one of the most critical factors for customers to choose. So Trek FX sport 5 also chose the Bontrager GR1 Expert for this consideration.
Compared to other normal hybrid tires, it has a wider and heavier size (40c). This also means that he has a more stable grip on the road, which is also reflected in my daily fitness.
At the same time, the Trek FX Sport 5’s tires have a quick-release function, so you can choose the right tire according to your riding experience. 42c is the largest compatible tire size for the Trek FX sport 5. Of course, you can also choose to install the original tires (40c) to support the installation of hidden fender brackets to reduce the damage to your clothes due to the splash of water on the roadside in rainy days.
Trek FX Sport 5 Previous Versions
We also measured another version of the Trek FX sport – the Trek FX sport5 . As mentioned above, the Trek FX sport5 , has the same body structure as the Trek FX sport5 and is also made of carbon fiber. However, compared to the latest version, its suspension uses rigid materials, making it lacking in shock absorption. But correspondingly, its price is more favorable, only 1979 US dollars. The high price/performance ratio will make it stand out among the same type of vehicles.
If you are not so keen on the carbon fiber body in full form, then Trek FX sport5 , will be a good choice for you. All in all, while you can pay attention to Trek FX sport4 and Trek FX sport6, I believe that there is always a model in the Trek series that suits your fitness needs.
What do we like about it?
- An excellent exercise bike that can adapt to different sections of riding.
- The body structure of oclv carbon fiber structure makes it lighter and faster.
- The 40c tire configuration has more grip.
- Shimano hydraulic discs provide more responsive braking and easier maintenance.
- Compatible with DuoTraps to track fitness and provide real-time feedback.
What do we not like about it?
- Slightly dated strapped pedals.
- Going for big tires means ditching the hidden fender mounts.
Trek FX Sport 5 Specs
Frameset
| Fork | Carbon, hidden fender mounts, flat mount disc, 5x100mm thru-skew |
|---|
Wheels
| Hub front | Formula CL-51 alloy, 100x5mm QR |
|---|---|
| Hub rear | Formula CL-52 alloy, 135x5mm QR |
| Rim | Bontrager Paradigm, Tubeless Ready, 32-hole, 21mm width, presta valve |
| Tire | Bontrager GR1 Expert, Hard-Case Lite, wire bead, 60 tpi, 700x40c |
| Max tire size | 42c without fenders, 40c with fenders |
Drivetrainexpand_less
| Shifter | Shimano RS700, 11 speed |
|---|---|
| Rear derailleur | Shimano GRX RX812, long cage, 42T max cog |
| *Crank | Size: S Shimano GRX RX600, 40T ring, 170mm length Size: M, L, XL Shimano GRX RX600, 40T ring, 175mm length |
| Bottom bracket | Shimano RS500, 86mm, PressFit |
| Cassette | Shimano SLX M7000, 11-42, 11 speed |
| Chain | Shimano HG601 |
| Pedal | VPE-993T |
| Max chainring size | 42T |
Components
| Saddle | Bontrager Montrose Comp, steel rails, 138mm width |
|---|---|
| Seatpost | Bontrager Comp, 6061 alloy, 27.2mm, 8mm offset, 330mm length |
| *Handlebar | Size: S Bontrager Satellite Plus IsoZone, alloy, 31.8mm, 15mm rise, 600mm width Size: M, L, XL Bontrager Satellite Plus IsoZone, alloy, 31.8mm, 15mm rise, 660mm width |
| Grips | Bontrager Satellite IsoZone Plus, lock-on, ergonomic |
| *Stem | Size: S, M Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 100mm length Size: L, XL Bontrager Elite, 31.8mm, Blendr compatible, 7 degree, 110mm length |
| Brake | Shimano hydraulic disc, MT201 lever, UR300 caliper |
| Brake rotor | Shimano RT10, centerlock, 160mm |
| Rotor size | Max brake rotor size: 160mm |
Weight
| Weight | M – 10.10 kg / 22.27 lbs |
|---|---|
| Weight limit | This bike has a maximum total weight limit (combined weight of bicycle, rider, and cargo) of 300 pounds (136 kg). |
Compare
| BIKE | PRICE | GEAR | TIRE | BRAKE | CLICK VIEW |
| Trek FX+ 2 Stagger | $2,499 | 1×9 | Bontrager H2 Comp | Shimano hydraulic disc | CLICK VIEW |
| Liv Thrive CoMax 1 Disc | $1,925 | 2 × 11 | Giant Gavia AC 1 | Shimano MT201 | CLICK VIEW |
| Cannondale Bad Boy 1 | $2,325 | 1×8 | WTB Byway | Shimano MT400 hydraulic disc | CLICK VIEW |
| Trek FX Sport 4 | $1,819 | 1×11 | Bontrager R1 Hard Shell Lite | Shimano hydraulic disc | CLICK VIEW |
Trek FX Sport 4 vs Trek FX Sport 5
In terms of body structure, Trek FX Sport 4 also uses carbon fiber materials to make the body lighter. When encountering a road that the bicycle cannot pass through, the rider can lift it hard.
But compared to the Trek FX Sport 5, the TrekFX Sport 4 uses a rigid suspension. This results in the TrekFX Sport 4 being slightly insufficient in terms of shock absorption on the same gravel road, and does not support longer-range travel.
Again, when it comes to price, the Trek FX Sport 4 is a definite plus, of course at the expense of its own speed. If your goal is just light travel near your home and price is a factor, then the Trek FX Sport 4 is for you. And if you’re looking to ride more kilometers, the Trek FX Sport 5 might be your best bet.
Learn more ：Is Trek Dual Sport 2 Gen 4 A Good E-bike? [Trek Dual Sport 2 Gen 4 Reviews]
Cannondale Bad Boy 1 vs Trek FX Sport 5
Unlike the Trek FX Sport 5, the Cannondale Bad Boy 1 still uses aluminum as the body support, so it has a heavier volume and is more affordable. Of course, if you are looking for a lighter and smaller bike, carbon fiber is still your first choice.
Of course, the Cannondale Bad Boy 1 is a city bike, it’s more to adapt to the city’s smooth roads. For those gravel roads that fitness enthusiasts want to challenge, maybe it’s not done very well.
If you’re looking for something a little different on your commute, the Cannondale Bad Boy 1 is worth checking out.
Learn More: Is Cannondale Bad Boy 1 Worth Buying? [Cannondale Bad Boy Series Review]
2019 Liv Thrive CoMax 1 Disc vs Trek FX Sport 5
The 2019 Liv Thrive CoMax 1 Discs is a stylish hybrid bike while still having it all.
The same carbon fiber construction makes it lighter while increasing its own performance. But that’s only for hybrids, because the 2019 Liv Thrive CoMax 1 Discs is significantly heavier than the Trek FX Sport 5 because of the battery, so that also means you have to lift it up quite a bit.
At the same time, as an electric bicycle, it has two sets of transmission systems, so that you can save a lot of energy when riding. But at the same time, like a normal electric car, it still needs to be charged every day, if you have a long trip.
As equipped with high-end components and hydraulic disc brakes, the price is relatively high throughout.
Learn more : Is Liv Thrive 2 A Good Choice? – [Liv Thrive 2 Review]
Trek FX +2 Stagger vs Trek FX Sport 5
The Trek FX+ 2 Stagger is a hybrid bike, with premium parts and hydraulic disc-style components making it extremely capable.
At the same time, it is equipped with large 50c tires which make it very grippy and extremely stable even on steep downhills.
But unlike the Trek FX Sport 5, Alpha Gold aluminum was chosen for its construction. Therefore, it is not as tough as carbon fiber, and it also means that you will experience relatively large vibrations during the ride.
Trek FX+ 2 Review – Is An All-Around Electric Bike?
