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Field Test: Trek Fuel EX - Evolution Underlined

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Trek Fuel EX 7 review

Conservative trail bike with 26in wheels

Russell Burton/Future Publishing

Trek’s Fuel EX is a previous Trail Bike of the Year winner, and while the basic design has persisted for several years it’s been the subject of constant tweaks and evolution – a little more travel here, a bit off the head angle there, some weight sliced away. This EX 7 sits right in the middle of the five-bike aluminium Fuel range.

Ride & handling: Balanced but not overly confident in extreme situations

Other bikes have pushed the slack and low geometry envelope further than the Fuel, but it still remains a potent weapon. It can get nervous in the most furious trail situations, but there’s very little it won’t deal with.

The 720mm handlebar offers plenty of leverage, the QR15 front axle and tapered steerer make sure the front wheel points the way you want, while plenty of meat in the down tube allows the rest of the bike to simply follow faithfully on.

We like the Bontrager XR3 tyres too, which manage to combine the cushioning of high volume with decent grip and a fast-rolling nature to good effect.

Despite their efforts to shift perceptions, Trek still have a slightly conservative reputation. This incarnation of the Fuel – especially given the fast-changing nature of the competition – does little to change that. But for many, that’s the bike’s strength.

Frame & equipment: Subtle, sensitive suspension

Most manufacturers use the same frame for the cheapest version of a bike as the most expensive one, and simply fit better parts as the prices increase. Trek’s Fuel EX models are unusual in that the cheaper bikes get different frames; this EX 7 does without certain features that appear on the slightly more expensive EX 8 .

The EX 7 has a conventional threaded bottom bracket rather than the latest bigger, stiffer press-fit design, lacks chainguide mounts and takes a normal rather than direct-mount front mech. There’s also no rubberised down tube guard, which seems like nothing more than penny pinching.

However, the bigger technological ideas remain: it benefits from Trek’s ABP pivot, which is there to keep the suspension working whether you’re braking or not; keeps the ‘floating’ shock (it’s squeezed between the swingarm and rocker linkage, rather than against a fixed mount on the frame); and it wears a big, stiff tapered head tube.

The EX 7 is the cheapest Fuel to feature a Dual Rate Control Valve shock. The twin-chamber setup gives a sprightly pedalling feel while retaining very plush small-bump sensitivity, opening up to swallow big bits.

It’s not perfect – it occasionally catches you out with more travel than you expect – and it divides rider opinion. Some love the supple feel while other (generally more aggressive) riders dislike its willingness to give up the travel. It’s a similar story with DRCV forks, but the EX 7 wears a regular Fox Evolution unit.

This is a mature, highly developed bike, and a safe bet with your stake. Bikes with 26in wheels might be at the forefront of development right now, but the Fuel EX proves they’re still eminently capable, very well-understood and – vitally – fun.

This article was originally published in What Mountain Bike magazine, available on Apple Newsstand and Zinio .

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• Fuel EX 7 29

2023 Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6 Review

Are you looking for the perfect trail bike that offers ultimate performance? Do you want to know if the 2023 Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6 is worth considering?

Mountain biking is an exhilarating outdoor activity that can be done on all kinds of terrains, from dirt roads and single tracks to gnarly rock gardens.

As such, it requires a bike that is versatile and reliable. This has made the search for the optimal mountain bike difficult as there are so many options available.

The 2023 Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6 may be just what you need! It is the next generation of Trek’s popular Fuel EX series, so we have decided to take a closer look at this powerful trail bike and provide our full review.

We will analyse its features, design, performance, and compare it with other models in its class. So if you’ve been searching for a superior riding experience on rugged trails, read on for our latest review of the 2020 Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6!

The 2023 Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6 is an all-mountain full suspension mountain bike that packs all of Trek’s latest technologies into a package that is capable, confident and compliant – if you need a bike with great technical capability, look no further!

In this review, we’ll break down the features and specs of the 2023 Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6 to give you an in-depth understanding of what it offers.

The 2023 Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6 is a mountain shredding marvel. It’s designed to tackle unpredictable terrain and keep you comfortable when the going gets rough.

This mountain-ready bike has a geometry that gives you amazing control and handling, while the frame is made with lightweight yet durable aluminum alloy.

The 150mm of front and 185mm rear travel smooth out bumps, with FOX and RockShox suspension as well as Trek’s angle-adjust headset technology keeping you stable as you traverse tricky terrain. Plus, the sleek single-ring drivetrain ensures effortless shifting for quick adjustments on trail.

– Alpha Platinum Aluminum frame with internal downtube storage, angle-adjust headset, Mino Link adjustable geometry, and adjustable leverage rate

– RockShox 35 Gold RL, DebonAir spring fork provides 150 mm of travel

– Fox Performance Float EVOL 185mm x 55mm rear shock with 3-position DPS damper, tuned by Trek Suspension Lab

– Shimano components provide 1×12 drivetrain; 10-51t cassette and 30t chainring

– Bontrager XR5 Team Issue tires have aggressive knobs for secure cornering

– Bontrager Line Comp 30 wheelset is light and strong enough for every ride

– Boost 148/110mm hub spacing helps to provide better tire clearance 

– TranzX dropper post accommodates various riding styles

Frame Design

At the heart of the design of the 2023 Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6 is its lightweight Alpha Platinum Aluminum frame. 

The frame is designed for optimal off-road performance, combining low weight with excellent power transfer for climbing efficiency and stability on descents.

Replaceable headset cups (sold separately) to tweak the 64.5-degree head tube angle a degree steeper or slacker to your liking — all without impacting your bottom bracket height. 

The suspension on this model comes from RockShox 35 Gold RL 150mm travel in the front, giving you plenty of control over how your bike responds in rough terrain while still providing lightweight efficiency when you want it.

The Fox Performance Float EVOL 185mm x 55mm adds even more control to the handling on steeper trails, while remaining stable at higher speeds.

Wheels & Tires

The 2023 Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6 rolls on 27.5” Bontrager Line Comp 30, tubeless ready wheels and 2.50″ wide Bontrager XR5 Team Issue tires for maximum grip in corners and rock gardens without sacrificing rolling speed or braking power.

Drivetrain & Brakes

The drivetrain on this model features a Shimano 12 speed drivetrain featuring a 10-51t cassette giving you plenty of range for both uphills and downhills, while Shimano 4-piston hydraulic disc brakes provide powerful stopping power regardless of condition or terrain type.

Also coming equipped with Shimano Deore 30t crankset which helps shave some weight off while still offering plenty of stiffness during pedalling efforts.

If you’re looking for an all-mountain full suspension mountain bike that can tackle almost any type of terrain without breaking a sweat, then check out the 2023 Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6!

Order online and have it shipped to your local dealer for final assembly!!

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Trek Fuel EX 7 29

• AUS $ NZD $ USD $ CAD $ GBP £ EUR €

Colour / Matte Metallic Gunmetal

Size / 15.5 in., 17.5 in., 18.5 in., 19.5 in., 21.5 in., 23 in.

Weight / 30 lb 8.2 oz (13,840 g)

At a glance

G2 geometry, Active Braking Pivot (ABP), Straight Shot frame design with Knock Block steerer stop, Full Floater, EVO link, Mino Link adjustable geometry, Control freak internal cable routing, Down tube guard

Where To Buy

Specifications

• Frame Alpha Platinum Aluminum
• Fork RockShox Reba RL, Solo Air, Motion Control RL damper, 51mm offset, 110x15mm Boost thru-axle, 130mm
• Shock FOX Performance Float EVOL, 3-position DPS damper, 210mm x 52.5mm
• Hubs Bontrager Line Comp, 110x15mm Boost front, 148x12mm Boost 54 tooth Rapid Drive rear
• Wheels Bontrager Line Comp 30, tubeless ready (tubeless strips included)
• Wheel Size 29"
• Tires Bontrager XR4 Team Issue, tubeless ready, Inner Strength sidewalls, 120 tpi, aramid bead, 29" x 2.4"
• Chain 432mm, N/A, SRAM NX Eagle, 32 tooth, direct mount, SRAM NX Eagle, 12-speed
• Crank SRAM NX Eagle DUB
• Bottom Bracket 344mm, SRAM DUB PressFit, 92mm
• Rear Derailleur SRAM NX Eagle, 12-speed, Roller Bearing Clutch
• Shifters SRAM NX Eagle, 12-speed
• Brakeset Shimano MT400 hydraulic disc, Shimano MT400 hydraulic disc
• Handlebar Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm clamp, 15mm rise, 750mm width
• Saddle Bontrager Arvada
• Seatpost Dropper, Bontrager lever, internal routing, 31.6mm, Standard single bolt, 31.6mm, Standard single bolt
• Stem Bontrager Rhythm Comp, 31.8mm clamp, 0 degree rise
• Grips Bontrager XR Trail Comp, nylon lock-on
• Headset Knock Block Integrated, sealed cartridge bearing

Q: How much is a 2019 Trek Fuel EX 7 29?

A 2019 Trek Fuel EX 7 29 is typically priced around $2,830 USD when new. Be sure to shop around for the best price, and also look to the used market for a great deal.

Q: Where to buy a 2019 Trek Fuel EX 7 29?

The 2019 Trek Fuel EX 7 29 may be purchased directly from Trek .

Q: How much does a 2019 Trek Fuel EX 7 29 weigh?

A 2019 Trek Fuel EX 7 29 weights 30 lb 8.2 oz (13,840 g).

Q: What size wheels does the 2019 Trek Fuel EX 7 29 have?

The 2019 Trek Fuel EX 7 29 has 29" wheels.

Q: What size 2019 Trek Fuel EX 7 29 should I get?

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• Fuel EX 7 Gen 5

Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 5

Fuel EX 7 shines when you're charging down tricky descents, where the upgraded suspension package comes in handy. A lightweight aluminum frame, tubeless ready wheels, and a reliable 1x12 SRAM NX Eagle drivetrain make this an awesome all-around full suspension mountain bike. It's right for you if... You want one bike that's fun to ride on every trail, and you want upgraded parts, like a smoother DebonAir spring fork and a completely tubeless setup for less weight and more traction. The tech you get A light yet stiff alloy frame, a 140mm RockShox fork with a DebonAir spring for better small-bump compliance, and a FOX shock. A 1x12 SRAM NX Eagle drivetrain with a wide gear range. Plus, Bontrager Line Comp 30 wheels with tubeless tires and a dropper post. The final word Fuel EX 7 is a great all-around trail bike for a wide variety of terrain. It has upgrades where it matters most, like the suspension, drivetrain, and tubeless ready Bontrager wheels. Why you'll love it - You get more traction and control with upgraded parts you won't outgrow right away as your skills progress - You're getting a solid trail bike that's ready for anything you are - The dropper post lets you lower your saddle on the fly so it's out of the way on descents - Wide Line Comp 30 wheels provide more tire support so you get better traction and control - We expanded our size range to ensure a better fit for all riders. And, you get the fastest wheel that fits your frame: XS frames get 27.5-inch wheels, S frames get to choose between 27.5-inch or 29-inch, and sizes M to XL get 29-inch wheels

Dropper posts

A dropper seatpost allows you to quickly lower and raise your seat to give you an ideal riding position. Dropping your seat creates a lower center of gravity for better control and maneuverability on steep descents, while raising it puts you at normal riding height for efficient pedaling.

Construction can include either hydraulic- or cable-actuated systems and the post’s travel can either be infinitely adjustable or stopped at set intervals, depending on the model.

Dropper seatposts come in standard lengths and diameters and vary by the amount of travel.

Will my bike have a curved top tube?

Smaller frames (XS and S) have a top tube that dips down as it approaches the seat tube. This design makes for a lower standover height, which is good for shorter riders because it allows them to straddle their bike more easily. Larger frames (M and up) have a straight top tube because taller riders with longer legs typically don’t have the same issues with standover height.

Wheel size: Sizes X-Small – Small: 27.5-inch Sizes Small – XX-Large: 29-inch

Pedals sold separately, due to supply-chain issues, specs are subject to change without notice..

* Subject to change without notice.

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Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6 Review

• good down tube protection
• independent look
• many adjustment options
• 25 years warranty
• 15,97 kg - a bit heavy

OVERALL BIKE CHECK

The most importanten ratings of the Fuel EX 7 Gen 6 ⬤ in comparison to the competitor bikes of following categorie: (All Mountain up to 4500 €) ⬤ .

VALUE for MONEY CHECK

If you are keen on value for money, this is your chart. It shows you at a glance how many bike you get for 3299 €.

Expirience with the Trek Fuel EX 7 Gen 6

best alternatives

Je steiler der Winkel des Sitzrohrs ist, desto effizienter können Sie in die Pedale treten.

• Frame Alpha Platinum Aluminium, integriertes Staufach, verstellbarer Steuersatzwinkel, per Mino Link abstimmbare Geometrie, einstellbare Progression, geführte interne Zugverlegung, Umlenkhebel aus Magnesium, Sitzrohrdurchmesser 34,9 mm, ISCG 05, 55 mm Kettenlin
• Frame Material Aluminium
• Fork RockShox 35 Gold RL, DebonAir-Feder, Motion Control-Dämpfung, Lockout, konischer Gabelschaft, 44 mm Vorbiegung, Boost110, 15 mm Maxle Stealth-Achse, 150 mm Federweg
• Spring Unit air
• Remote-Lockout yes
• Damper FOX Performance Float EVOL, DPS-Dämpfung mit 3 Positionen, vom Trek Suspension Lab abgestimmt, 185 x 55 mm
• Gearrange 510%
• Drivetrain 1x12
• Gear Lever Shimano SLX M7100, 12fach
• Rear Derailleur Shimano XT M8100, langer Käfig
• Crank Shimano Deore M6120, 30 Z, 55 mm Kettenlinie, 170 mm Kurbelarmlänge
• Cassette Shimano Deore M6100, 10-51 Z., 12fach
• Chain Shimano Deore M6100, 12fach
• Brake Set Hydraulische Scheibenbremse TRP Slate EVO
• Brake Rotors 203/180
• Wheel Set Bontrager Line Comp 30, Tubeless Ready, Rapid Drive 108, 6-Loch-Scheibenaufnahme
• Tires Front Bontrager XR5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength Karkasse, Aramidwulstkern, 60 TPI, 27.5 x 2.50
• Tires Rear Bontrager XR5 Team Issue, Tubeless Ready, Inner Strength Karkasse, Aramidwulstkern, 60 TPI, 27.5 x 2.50
• Saddle Bontrager Arvada, Stahlstreben, 138 mm Breite
• Seat Post TranzX JD-YSI-22PLQ
• Stem Bontrager, Aluminium, 31,8 mm, Blendr-kompatibel, 7 Grad, 50 mm Länge
• Handle Bar Bontrager Rhythm Comp, Aluminium, 31,8 mm, 15 mm Rise, 750 mm Breite
• Handle Bar Width 750

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Proven Ways to Keep Warm During Russian Winter

No comments · Posted by Alex Smirnov in Overview

If you haven’t walked the streets of Russia on a cold winter night, then you’re missing out. You’ll see a few Russians walking in sneakers and T-shirts or heels and short dresses, but don’t let that fool you. Unless you’re born with the Russian genes, you’ll definitely need to arm up for the upcoming winter.

After all, there’s a popular joke that Russians love to laugh about whenever a foreigner visits their land. They’ll be sure to tell you about the transfer student who sent a letter to their relatives, describing how the “green winter” was manageable until the “white winter” hit and everything went south. If this is your first time visiting Russia, here’s everything you need to keep warm during their freezing winter.

Dressing for the Weather

It doesn’t take a genius to tell you that you’ll need to wear heavy clothes for the freezing weather, but you’ll understand how dressing for the Russian winter differs from dressing for any other kind of winter. A simple jacket just won’t cut it. That being said, here’s how you can dress appropriately for the weather, without having to freeze or sweat your insides out.

First and foremost, it all depends on where you’ll be spending your time. If you’re going to spend most of your time outdoors, then you’ll have to layer up heavily. You’ll need a thermal shirt as the first layer, as these do wonders in conserving your body temperature. Wool under-clothes are also great in preserving your core temperature. You’ll need a second layer of a t-shirt, followed by a sweater, and packed together by a winter jacket.

Don’t forget to wrap up the rest of your exposed skin with a hat or an ice cap, a wool scarf, and gloves or mittens. You can always add more warming layers according to your dressing styles, such as wearing woolen stockings and socks.

On the other hand, you need to prepare yourself in case your plan includes some indoor activities. Most indoor areas will be heated enough so one layer may be more than enough. In such a case, you may want to get rid of the thermal shirt so you don’t spend your evening sweating like no tomorrow.

Get Waterproof Boots

You can’t imagine how much cold or wet feet can affect the temperature of your whole body. Instead of learning that the hard way, it’s better that you invest in sturdy, waterproof boots to protect your feet against the snow and keep them warm at the same time. Be sure to choose boots with a non-slippery sole so you won’t get wet despite all your best efforts. Not only is slipping on snow uncomfortable, but slippery ice can also cause serious damage to your body.

Protect Your Skin

It’s easy to forget protecting your skin in a cold-weather where the sun is not an issue, but extremely cold weather also calls for skin protection measures. Especially in areas where the wind is bitterly cold and speedy, you’ll need to apply skin cream to moisten your face and act as a barrier against the wind. Meanwhile, it’s best to opt for oil-based creams to maintain this barrier as water-based ones will only exacerbate the situation.

Heating Up Your Home

Whether you’ll be spending most of your time at your home or you simply wish to get back into the comfort of heat at the end of every chilly day, you’ll need to prepare your home for the weather. Here are a few ways through which you can set up your home perfectly to withstand a cold Russian winter.

Examine Your HVAC System

If you depend mainly on your HAC system to heat up your home, then you may face certain issues. One common issue is having to turn up your HVAC system without feeling any significant change in the room temperature. If that’s the case, then it’s probably time to get the maintenance checkup you’ve been procrastinating on. Better yet, get the maintenance check before the start of the winter so you won’t have to endure the coldness any more than you need to.

Install a Heat Pump

Although it can be efficient, depending on an HVAC system to heat you up throughout the full winter can break your bank with its electricity bills. A much more affordable and practical option is to install a heat pump that exports the heat from the outside to inside your home. A heat pump is a great option for moderating the house temperature even during the summer, so it’s a win-win deal.

Install a Fireplace

Few heating options come with the elegance of adding a fireplace to your home. It seems like it’s been a requirement for every historical mansion to include a fireplace, and we just can’t get enough of them ever since. In addition to their elegance, fireplaces can be an efficient source of heat for the whole room, so you’ll be sure to stay warm for as long as you need to use the room. If you’re wondering where to start, you’ll be glad to know that your options are diverse. Depending on your needs and preferences, you may opt for a wood-burning, gas, electric, or ethanol fireplace. Here’s a quick overview of the four kinds.

* Wood-Burning Fireplace

Wood-burning fireplaces are the most traditional of all, and they’re also the most elegant and historic. There’s something romantic about spending the night with your loved one sipping on tea, covered with a blanket while watching the fire crackle in the mantel. According to the experts at Buyfirewooddirect.co.uk , the best way to enjoy the romantic evening is by using kiln-dried wood as opposed to seasoned wood. Kiln-dried wood burns at better efficiency, meaning that it will warm you better and in a cleaner manner.

However, even wood-burning fireplaces come in variations. You can go for the traditional fireplace in the form of an open-hearth setting, but installing a glass-shield to get an enclosed fireplace improves the efficiency of the fire. The downside of wood-burning fireplaces is that they require a lot of maintenance and cleaning needs.

* Gas Fireplace

Instead of having to buy woods and clean frequently, you can opt for a gas fireplace. In case you want the same traditional look, you’ll install a direct-vented built-in fireplace to get the same yellow flames of a normal fire. Alternatively, you can install a ventless built-in fireplace, which is easier to install but gives a blue flame instead.

* Electric Fireplace

If you want to avoid the hassle that comes with installing chimneys and gas lines, then an electric fireplace can be a suitable option. Electric fireplaces are easy to maintain and practical, but you’ll only get a pseudo-fire in the form of heated coils. It’s also going to add to your electricity bills, so you’ll have to do the math and decide if it’s suitable for you.

* Ethanol Fireplace

If you’re more a fan of modern design, then you’ll definitely love the idea of an ethanol fireplace. Ethanol fireplaces and fireplaces operated by alcohol gel operate in a similar manner; you fuel them with flammable alcohol and get real flames. They’re much safer alternatives to other kinds of fireplaces, adding to your options since they can be hung on wall stands or transported to different rooms.

Insulate Your Home

More often than not, you’ll double-check the efficiency of all your heating appliances and find them working perfectly. So why is your house still cold? In that case, you may want to check for wall cracks or an uninsulated attic. These may be the culprit for seeping the heat inside your home to the outside, and fixing them can be easily and simply done.

Upgrade Your Boiler

There’s no way you can survive the Russian winter without heating your water. Again, unless you have the Russian genes, you’ll certainly need an efficient boiler to heat your water and satisfy your shower needs. If your boiler is a tad too old, you might want to consider investing in a newer, more energy-efficient model. Newer models are almost 90% more efficient than older ones, which will help in heating the water better while using less electricity or gas.

Insulate Hot-Water Pipes

Speaking of water, you’ll need to insulate your water pipes, especially the hot-water lines. The last thing you need to wake up to a water pipe bursting up from being frozen. You can insulate the pipes using heat tape, heat cables, or pipe sleeves. On the plus side, this will prevent the heat from escaping from the pipes, which will increase the efficiency of the water boiler.

Learning to Embrace the Cold

On a different note, you’ll find out that, sooner or later, you need to embrace the Russian winter. That holds true especially if you’re planning on staying in Russia for the long run. To avoid being ridiculed by your Russian friends, here are some tips on how you can embrace the cold like a Russian.

Go Snowboarding or Skiing

The most obvious place to start is to share their love for the snow, and what better way to do so than to take up their sports? Prep yourself for a long session of fun snowboarding or skiing, but watch out for your leg soreness on the following day. If you really want to enjoy the cold like a Russian, then the best time of the year to go skiing or snowboarding is the New Year holidays which, coincidentally, are also the coldest days of the year.

Explore the Russian Winter Culture

Russians know how to have fun, we’ll hand it to them. That can be seen in their winter culture where festivals, performances, events, and galleries seem to have no end during their winter nights and days. You need to squeeze some fun activities into your winter agenda, where you take a stroll down the festivals, explore their museums, or enjoy a night out in their theatres.

Keeping Your System Running

Finally, there are a few more ways through which you can condition your body to tolerate the cold better. Here’s what you can do.

Keep Moving

If there’s one rule to surviving the Russian winter, then it’s to keep moving. As long as you’re moving, your body will be in a constant state of burning calories to heat you up. You’ll fail to notice the cold, as opposed to what would happen if you stay still.

Take Rest Stops

On the other hand, don’t forget to get some rest breaks if you’ll be spending a lot of outdoor time. Staying outdoors for a long period of time, sometimes just more than 20 minutes, can be both unpleasant and dangerous to your body. This is not surprising, since it’s common for the weather to drop to -25°C during daytime in many cities.

Eat Carbs and Proteins

Make sure to keep fueling your body. The best way to keep your body burning up calories is to fuel it with both carbs and protein. Your body needs carbs as the simplest and easiest form of fuel to generate energy, and it uses up more energy to burn proteins. Combining both will keep it generating heat longer.

Drink Tea and an Occasional Vodka Shot

Meanwhile, there’s no limit to the number of hot drinks you can take. Keep your body warm by sipping on tea, coffee, or hot drinks during your rest stops and throughout your waking hours. If you ask any Russian, they’ll be sure to recommend taking a few vodka shots to keep you warm. While they’ll do the job, it’s better to stick to an occasional shot since the cold will always be there. You don’t want to forget it and suffer from frostbite as a result.

There are a few challenges in life that can come to par with surviving a white winter in Russia. If you’ll be spending a few months over, you’ll have to take all necessary and precautionary measures to ensure you get out of it with all your limbs intact. Start with the way you dress to how you can heat up your home, and then work your way through embracing the Russian way and conditioning your body, and you’ll be sure to survive it like a champ.

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