Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 5
- Price: $3,499.99
- Frame： Alpha Platinum Aluminum
- Gears: 1 x 12 speed
- Tire: 29×2.60″ (max)
What we like about it: The smooth DebonAir spring and dropper design and the 1×12 SRAM NX Eagle drivetrain make for a great full-suspension bike.
What we don’t like about it: some people think it would be better if it had 4 piston brakes, we think the Trek Fuel EX 7 is perfectly adequate when braking.
Rating:（4.7/5)
Introduction
Did you know? When our reviewers rode it on country roads, passers-by saw our Trek Fuel EX 7 and said “Wow, look at that bike! Look at that bike!”. Its unique design and paint job are very attractive.
After two months of reviewing the Trek Fuel EX 7, we can see why some people call it a “stable and reliable utility bike”. of the bumpy feeling.
Not only that, but the Trek Fuel EX 7’s Alpha Platinum Aluminum body and vacuum tires reduce its overall weight, allowing us to control it with less force when riding.
We all agree that the Trek Fuel EX excels on downhill and hills, but we don’t think it’s any less suitable for riding on other roads.
For this, we also took to the sand and relatively smooth roads of the sea and found that the Fuel EX 7 2.6” tire size has a strong grip on fine, loose sand and the traction of the front wheels does not slip. The wide size of the tires allows the whole car to float better on the sand. Some people would think, however, that such wide tires would encounter some difficulties on flat roads.
In our review, the EX 7 Trek would indeed be less than excellent in terms of speed, but very strong in terms of stability. Here is our detailed review of the Trek Fuel EX 7’s descents and climbs, key features, components, and specifications, as well as a comparison of its previous versions.
If you prefer exciting descents and exploring uncharted paths, take a look at our review.
Descending
I once heard a saying from the old country of the East: “It’s easy to get up the mountain, but hard to get down”. So when we saw the Trek Fuel EX 7, we had a feeling that it would shine in the drop test.
During our 3 month long review, the EX 7 Trek conquered me again and again with its strength. First of all, the road was full of ups and downs and unpredictable conditions, but the EX 7 Trek was able to complete this section without any problems.
The Fuel EX 7 crushes over unavoidable rocks with ease and without making you aware of the obstacle you’ve just encountered. In addition, we encountered unforeseen difficulties during the test, with rain suddenly falling on an apparently sunny day, which made us want to abandon the downhill test on the forest road for a while.
The results really didn’t disappoint me, th Fuel EX 7 didn’t leave us needing great force to keep ourselves and the car close to the ground in the fast descents. This result left everyone but me wide-eyed, and I was actually surprised inside, but I didn’t show it.
In this respect, the performance of the Fuel EX 7 gave me a concrete idea of the value for money compared to the very expensive mountain bikes I have ridden before.
Steep and rugged downhill trails are known to be a great challenge for both the rider and the mountain bike, and we were totally impressed by the downhill appeal of the Fuel EX 7 as it descended over this terrain.
Reasons for Outstanding Performance
Why we would say it performs well, has a lot to do with the configuration of the rear suspension. The Trek Fuel EX 7’s upgraded fork has enough travel to absorb vibrations in the swoop and damp the shock very well.
Not only that, but the vacuum tires, which are wide enough to act as shock absorbers when on sharp and exciting downhill roads. When we encounter larger rocks, the powerful drivetrain takes the rider straight through. When we encounter larger mounds of dirt, the dropper is designed to give us a good rebound and a strong performance in terms of shock absorption.
In sharp turns, the relatively loose head tube angle (66°) will be more stable in the face of steering.
It is also equipped with DebonAir, which not only makes the body lighter, but also acts as a cushion on bumpy paths.
As I tried to create a trail for myself, the components of the EX 7 Trek did the trick, allowing me to experience not only wind-like speed but also a great sense of security as I flew down.
When it came to downhill trips, the Trek Fuel EX 7 excelled and was a great descender.
Climbing
As we all know from hiking and climbing, we need to have a strong conviction when climbing. I believe the Trek Fuel EX 7 has the same conviction when it comes to climbing. Of course, this is not just wishful thinking on my part, but the vacuum tires on the Fuel EX 7 Bontrager XR4 Team Issue and the set-up of the fork tell the story.
Fire Road Ride
The test was at the place where I live, where there is a fire road leading to the top of a nearby hill. Being on such a road gave me stress. Here I have to admit that I have fallen nose-to-nose many times due to skidding.
This time the Bontrager XR4 Team Issue vacuum tires on the Fuel EX 7 stopped me from being upset about the fire road. There was another rocky section of road to climb on the way to the summit, and the Trek Fuel EX 7’s lightweight body and lockable rear fork allowed us to enjoy the sunset before it was too late.
If you don’t want to get your money’s worth, check out other mountain bikes, but I’d recommend you give the Fuel EX 7 a go.
The Trek Fuel EX 7’s Bontrager XR4 Team Issue tires, with their aggressive appearance, proved to be excellent in loose and rocky conditions. Even on gravel-laden terrain, the large 27.5×2.60′ size and aggressive tread provided agile cornering and plenty of braking power.
Brief Sum-up
When our testers carried out the climbing test, we felt the full traction of the tires. Not only that, but the lockable shock forks make climbing even easier.
It comes with Shimano hubs, and the Rapid Drive 54 hub has the ability to quickly and efficiently convert effort into forwarding momentum. So when the reviewer was on the pedals, the Rapid Drive 54 hub’s timely acceleration function provided a huge boost.
The Trek Fuel EX 7’s SRAM NX Eagle 1×12 drivetrain and a maximum of 50 gears were designed to give us a stable ride on the climbs.
Key Features
Frame
Part Ⅰ
What surprised me was the paint color of the Trek Fuel EX 7, which attracted me at first sight. The cool Radioactive Red, and the restrained Dark Prismatic, all caught my fancy.
Also noteworthy is the Control Freak’s cable management, which threads any combination of shift, brake, locking, and drip post cables through the frame for a neat look.
We are also concerned that the EX Fuel 7 has a water bottle mounting hole in the downtube. You may think this is too small, but you may not have noticed that the upper part of the downtube can be opened. You can put some tools and other essentials in there and it doesn’t make the body heavier or less tidy.
Part Ⅱ
Not only that, but the Alpha Platinum Aluminum is light enough and strong enough to provide a powerful ride for climbing. It also allows for agile maneuvering if you encounter an urgent turn.
To be honest, the length of the Trek Fuel EX 7’s compact Effective top tube (size M 60.3) would not allow a tall rider like me to stretch my arms. So, you should always be aware of the size when buying.
However, the Trek Fuel EX 7’s smaller frame (XS and S) has a top tube that tilts down as it approaches the seat tube, which lowers the stand-up height. This helps smaller riders to get on and off the bike and allows them to straddle the bike more easily.
Some people may be concerned that this is detrimental to taller riders, but the Trek Fuel EX takes care of this too. The larger M and above Trek Fuel EX has a straight top tube, which is just as beneficial for those of you with longer legs.
There are many different sizes of Trek EX Fuel 7 mountain bikes, so you can find one that fits your height.
Geometry
Right off the bat, the Trek Fuel EX 7’s geometry struck me as novel, resembling an obtuse triangular frame. It allowed our reviewer to apply more forceful hand force to the head tube for steering control when descending. Not only that, but the slack seat tube angle (67.5° in M size) will allow you to actively lower the height of your center of gravity when climbing, for better and more stability on climbs.
The looser head tube angle (66.0° in size M) may be perceived as a hindrance to steering, but our review showed that it provides more stable steering in rough and difficult terrain. To complete the picture, we also looked at the length of the Frame reach, 44cm in size M. This shorter Frame reach will allow smaller people to stretch their arms freely, and the air spring design will give cushioning to protect the arms.
The lower BB (max. 34.6 cm) will make the bike more stable by lowering the center of gravity and will give you greater safety on very aggressive descents.
Not only that, but we’ve also looked at the Fuel EX 7 equipped with ABP, which allows you to actively adjust the suspension, meaning you get more agile and reliable control when you hit an obstacle, which is certainly not a novel experience.
Components and Specifications
SRAM NX Eagle 1 x 12 Speed
The Trek Fuel EX 7 uses the SRAM NX Eagle, a 1×12 speed drivetrain, which gives the Fuel EX 7 a wider range of speeds. Some people think that this is the most entry-level drivetrain for the NX 1×12 and that the 1×12 is heavy compared to the other high end 12 speed SRAM NX Eagle. I don’t think so, and I don’t think that the extra few hundred grams on a full-suspension bike at this level actually has any impact on the overall ride (because of the air fork setup).
Not only that, but the SRAM NX Eagle uses a steel frame for the rear derailleur, although not the high-end carbon and aluminum. However, this does not reduce its durability and is using the same shifting technology, which reduces your difficulties when shifting and allows for smoother shifting.
Shimano RT56, 6-bolt, and SRAM CenterLine, 6-bolt Braking
The Trek Fuel EX 7 uses Shimano RT56, 6-bolt and SRAM CenterLine, 6-bolt brakes on the front and rear wheels respectively, and the dual piston braking equipment will have a more responsive braking ability.
The Trek EX Fuel 7 combines these two brakes, not only to give the Trek Fuel EX 7 smoother braking, which will remain smooth when braking, but also to adapt to braking on all types of terrain.
In addition, this two-piston brake installation is not as difficult as one might expect and can be done quickly.
When I was swooping down from the edge of the road on the Trek Fuel EX 7, the smooth braking of the twin pistons quickly brought me to a halt when I didn’t have time to react to a tight turn on the high-speed descent. I really think it’s going to be one of my favorite mountain bikes.
If you have high standards when it comes to braking your bike, then the price and braking of this bike will successfully catch your eye.
RockShox 35 Gold RL Fork
At this price, the Trek Fuel EX 7 uses a RockShox 35 Gold RL fork. the DebonAir springs are lighter than the others and the Motion Control damping has low-speed compression and adjustable lockout. The fork’s 140mm of travel can be a hindrance to riding on flat roads, but I don’t think this will affect my enjoyment of this value-for-money fork.
Fox Performance Float Shock absorbers
The Trek Fuel EX 7 uses Fox Performance Float shocks. This is a higher priced shock and is very durable. This fork won’t hold you back, it has an internal 3-position DPS damper with 3 adjustments. This makes it possible to deal with a wide range of situations and dampens the shock better. This is really a shining point that makes me happy.
Tires
The Trek Fuel EX 7 is equipped with Bontrager XR4 Team Issue vacuum tires, which are available in sizes up to 29”.
The Bontrager XR4 Team Issue will be relatively light in weight with its vacuum tires. The 29×2.60” tire size is suitable for climbing on a wide range of terrain and the 120tpi not only provides plenty of power but is also puncture resistant.
Compared to mountain bikes with fat tires, this one will perform surprisingly well on flat road rides. Its steering traction, when we encounter urgent corners, will provide a great boost.
Trek Fuel EX 7 Previous versions
As you know, the Trek Fuel EX 7 is the upgraded EX series, preceded by the Trek Fuel EX 5. The Trek Fuel EX 7 is slightly more expensive than the Trek Fuel EX 5, but the Trek Fuel EX 7 has upgraded the suspension, drivetrain, and tires to give you a safer and freer ride. If you prefer to spend more time off-road in the mountains and riding on steep descents, I think you could look at the Trek Fuel EX 7.
What do we like about it?
- The full shock absorbers shine when facing downhill.
- Simple and easy to handle dropper that can be modulated for shock absorption when the rider jumps.
- The aluminum frame is not only light in weight but also strong and wear-resistant.
- Multiple sizes, friendly to people with short stature.
What don’t we like about it?
- It would have been better if the operation of the dropper could have been simpler and easier (e.g. electric control), but at this price this is reasonable.
- Some would argue that the SRAM NX Eagle, with its 1×12 drivetrain, would be relatively heavy in terms of weight, but I don’t think the relatively few hundred extra grams would affect the speed of the ride.
FAQs
- What material is the frame of the Trek Fuel EX 7 made of?
The frame of the Trek Fuel EX 7 is made of Alpha Platinum Aluminium.
- What is the maximum tire size of the Trek Fuel EX 7?
The maximum tire size on the Trek Fuel EX 7 is 29×2.60″.
- What is the drivetrain of the Trek Fuel EX 7?
The drivetrain of the Trek Fuel EX 7 is an SRAM NX Eagle, 1 x 12 speed.
Specs
Frameset
| Frame | Alpha Platinum Aluminum, tapered head tube, Knock Block, Control Freak internal routing, downtube guard, ISCG 05, magnesium rocker link, Mino Link, ABP, Boost148, 130mm travel |
|---|---|
| Fork | RockShox 35 Gold RL, DebonAir spring, Motion Control damper, lockout, tapered steerer, 44mm offset, Boost110, 15mm Maxle Stealth, 140mm travel |
| *Shock | Size: XS , S Fox Performance Float EVOL, 3-position DPS damper, tuned by Trek Suspension Lab, 210mm x 52.5mm Size: XS , S Fox Performance Float EVOL, 3-position DPS damper, tuned by Trek Suspension Lab, 210×52.5mm Size: S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL Fox Performance Float EVOL, 3-position DPS damper, tuned by Trek Suspension Lab, 210mm x 55mm Size: S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL Fox Performance Float EVOL, 3-position DPS damper, tuned by Trek Suspension Lab, 210x55mm |
| Max compatible fork travel | 150mm (561mm axle-to-crown) |
Wheels
| Wheel front | Bontrager Line Comp 30, Tubeless Ready, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15mm thru axle |
|---|---|
| Wheel rear | Bontrager Line Comp 30, Tubeless Ready, Rapid Drive 54, 6-bolt, Shimano 8/9/10 freehub, Boost148, 12mm thru axle |
| Hub front | Bontrager alloy, sealed bearing, alloy axle, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15mm thru axle |
| Skewer rear | Bontrager Switch thru axle, removable lever |
| Rim | Bontrager Line Comp 30, Tubeless Ready, 6-bolt, Boost110, 15mm thru axle |
| *Tire | Size: XS , S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL 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: S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL Bontrager XR4 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength sidewalls, aramid bead, 120 tpi, 29×2.60” |
| Tire part | Bontrager TLR sealant, 6oz |
| Rim strip | Bontrager TLR |
| Max tire size | Frame: 29×2.60″ Fork: See manufacturer |
Drivetrain
| Shifter | SRAM NX Eagle, 12 speed |
|---|---|
| Rear derailleur | SRAM NX Eagle |
| *Crank | Size: XS , S , M , ML , L SRAM NX Eagle, DUB, 30T steel ring, Boost (52mm chainline), 170mm length Size: M , ML , L , XL , XXL SRAM NX Eagle, DUB, 30T steel ring, Boost (52mm chainline), 175mm length |
| Bottom bracket | SRAM DUB, 92mm, PressFit |
| Cassette | SRAM PG-1230 Eagle, 11-50, 12 speed |
| Chain | SRAM NX Eagle, 12 speed |
| Max chainring size | 34T |
Components
| Saddle | Bontrager Arvada, steel rails, 138mm width |
|---|---|
| *Seatpost | Size: XS , S TranzX JD-YSP18, 100mm travel, internal routing, 31.6mm, 361mm length Size: M , ML , L , XL , XXL TranzX JD-YSP18, 150mm travel, internal routing, 31.6mm, 470mm length |
| Handlebar | Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, 15mm rise, 750mm width |
| Grips | Bontrager XR Trail Comp, nylon lock-on |
| Stem | Bontrager Rhythm Comp, 31.8mm, Knock Block, 0 degree, 50mm length |
| Headset | Knock Block Integrated, 58-degree radius, cartridge bearing, 1-1/8” top, 1.5” bottom |
| *Brake | Size: XS , S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL Shimano hydraulic disc, MT4100 lever, MT410 caliper Size: XS , S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL SRAM Level T hydraulic disc Size: XS , S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL Shimano hydraulic disc, MT401 lever, MT400 caliper |
| *Brake rotor | Size: XS , S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL Shimano RT56, 6-bolt, 180mm Size: XS , S , M , ML , L , XL , XXL SRAM CenterLine, 6-bolt, round edge, 180mm |
| Brake Set | SRAM Level T hydraulic disc |
Weight
| Weight | M – 14.48 kg / 31.93 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). |
Comparison Table
| BIKE | PRICE | GEAR | TIRE | BRAKE | CLICK VIEW |
| Norco Fluid FS A3 | $2,999.00 | 1×12 | 29”×2.4” | Tektro HD-745 Hydraulic Disc | Click View |
| Marin Rift Zone 29″ Carbon 2 | $4,379 | 1×12 | 29×2.5” | Shimano SLX Hydraulic Discs | Click View |
| Intense Sniper T 29 Expert | $4,499.00 | 1×12 | 29″ x 2.30″ | Shimano XT M8100 Hydraulic Disc | Click View |
| Trek Fuel EX 5 | $2,699.99 | 1×12 | 29×2.60” (maximum) | Shimano RT56 Hydraulic Discs | Click View |
Trek Fuel EX 7 vs Norco Fluid FS A3
The two mountain bikes don’t feel very different in terms of their overall design. When I was riding the Norco Fluid FS A3, I noticed that the Norco Fluid FS A3 was bulkier, although it had an outstanding performance on climbs. After this, I found out that the Norco Fluid FS A3 is made of 6061 Alloy, and the platinum aluminum used in the Trek Fuel EX 7 is lighter in weight and very hard-wearing.
Let’s move on to the brakes. The Norco Fluid FS A3 uses the Tektro HD-745 4-piston design, which gives it good performance in terms of braking.
The Norco Fluid FS A3 SRAM SX 1×12 transmission, however, has some difficulties when facing downhill. the SRAM NX Eagle of the Trek Fuel EX 7, with its 1×12 transmission, gives it an excellent performance when facing downhill.
If exciting downhill riding is more your thing, check out the Trek Fuel EX 7.
Trek Fuel EX 7 vs Marin Rift Zone 29″ Carbon 2
I have to say that the Marin Rift Zone 29″ Carbon 2 is a mountain bike with a high-end design. It uses a carbon frame, which is expensive, but that doesn’t detract from my appreciation of the Trek Fuel EX 7.
The Trek Fuel EX 7 uses a platinum aluminum frame, which is relatively inexpensive and you don’t have to worry about its longevity. design for sensitive and stable braking. Its brake lever has an optimized lever shaft position that not only has extra contact points but also matches the habits of most riders.
If you are into rich paint colors, take a look at the Trek Fuel EX 7. I think it is good value for money and the excellent components give the Trek Fuel EX 7 even more capability.
Trek Fuel EX 7 vs Intense Sniper T 29 Expert
The Intense Sniper T 29 Expert is a hardtail bike with an expensive carbon fiber frame, which makes it lighter overall and will make it easier to ride on long trail rides. The dropper and fork are designed to absorb shock. Intense Sniper T 29 Expert is available in two paint colors, and each paint color is a combination of several colors that will be more appealing to youngsters.
To be honest, there is nothing for me to complain about except the price of the Intense Sniper T 29 Expert. For around $1000 the Trek Fuel EX 7 full shock bike gives me a premium experience not only in terms of shock absorption, but also in terms of descending and climbing features. If, for example, you want a good value for money bike, check out the Trek Fuel EX 7.
Trek Fuel EX 7 vs Trek Fuel EX 5
These two bikes from Trek Fuel EX use the same Alpha Platinum Aluminum for the frame and are the same 1×12 shifting, the difference being the Trek Fuel EX 5 Shimano Deore M6100. This drivetrain has a lower rear derailleur and chain tension in lower gears to maintain consistent power even on rough trails.
Of course, we also have to look at the SRAM NX Eagle in the Trek Fuel EX 7. Some people think that the SRAM NX 1×12 will be heavier, but I don’t think this has much of an effect on the Trek Fuel EX 7. On the contrary, the overall weight of the Trek Fuel EX 5 is heavier than the Trek Fuel EX 7.
In terms of components, the Trek Fuel EX 7 has been upgraded. The Trek Fuel EX 7 is more agile than the Trek Fuel EX 5. The Trek Fuel EX 7 has a Knock Block design which protects your head tube if you are making a sharp turn and reduces frictional losses.
As the Trek Fuel EX 5 is not a vacuum tire, it is heavier and the Trek Fuel EX 7 is designed with a vacuum tire, which rolls faster and provides the same great traction on bumpy trails.
The Trek Fuel EX 7 is more expensive due to the cost of the vacuum tire. However, I think this is totally justified as it gives you a more comfortable riding experience.
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Learn more: Trek Fuel EX 5 Review-How Does It Break Through The Obstacles Of The Trail?
